Way Man’s best days are spent belly deep in an overgrown pond, turning over rocks, preferably with his dog and a snack waiting nearby!
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Receive Text UpdatesWaylon loves to explore the world around us, even (and sometimes especially) in the places most people would walk by without noticing. On our walks, he always reminds us to "Keep your eyes down! There are ant hills everywhere. And remember that caterpillar we saw last week? He might be back and need our help again". No creature is too small or common to blow his mind. Not to mention the magic of a super cool rock or perfect walking stick!
Waylon's favorite animal is whichever lucky creature happens to have captured his attention. The stinkbug in the kitchen needing a rescue. The garter snake that just zoomed out of our path. The giant praying mantis on the garage. The neighbor's very affectionate cat... When asked his favorite, he said, "All of them"! When pressed, he narrowed it down to "Reptiles! And insects! ... And amphibians!" How is a kid to choose when the world is so full of magic?
Way is all about observing wildlife up close, if only for a little while. He brings buckets, shovels and nets to the local lakes or the ocean to make a mini ecosystem with plants, rocks, and sand. Then he finds minnows, crabs, salamanders, and crayfish to marvel at until releasing and starting all over again! In the cooler months, the aquariums become insect and newt terrariums. When it's time to get the zoomies out, he loves racing his dog in sprints until they're both panting.
Vote for Waylon to become the 2025 Jr. Ranger while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation—supporting the National Wildlife Federation in their mission to protect wildlife and wild places for future generations.
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