First Friday

First Friday (Adult+)
Where the Wild Things Roam: Reconnecting Western New York's Landscapes with Marcus Rosten

Friday, November 6, 2026
11:00 a.m. – Noon

$8 Adults; $6 Nature Center members
$6 Children 9 – 15

Reservations appreciated, walk-ins welcome.

Marcus will share photos and findings from the WNY Wildway's wildlife studies, showing how documenting animals and modeling their movements is helping identify the critical habitat corridors needed to keep wildlife connected across Western New York.

Hidden among Western New York's forests—and even along the edges of our communities—is a network of wildlife constantly on the move. Through habitat mapping and motion-activated trail cameras, we are gaining new insights into how animals navigate an increasingly fragmented landscape. Learn how the WNY Wildway is bringing together landowners, municipalities, conservation organizations, and community partners to protect forests, reconnect landscapes, and ensure wildlife can move safely between the Northern Appalachians and the Great Lakes. This presentation explores how strategically conserving our most important lands today supports wildlife, strengthens climate resilience, and creates a healthier, more connected future for both people and nature.

Marcus Rosten is the Director of the WNY Wildway at the Western New York Land Conservancy, where he leads land conservation projects and coordinates a regional effort to protect and reconnect habitats across the region. With more than a decade of experience in conservation, environmental education, and community engagement, Marcus is passionate about connecting people with the wonder of local wildlife and inspiring action to protect it.

Special Information: If you’d like to bring a packed lunch, you can visit attendees and the speaker after the program.

Photo Credit: Kara Frisina