The natural world is a community, and sometimes the most important players are the ones people overlook. Join us in celebrating the unsung, unglamorous, and undeniably marvelous misfits who keep ecosystems healthy.

As environmental educators, we understand that when it comes to nature, looks aren’t everything. In fact, we realize that in the natural world where every living thing is part of a community, some of the most awe-inspiring organisms thrive despite what many would consider an ugly mug. That’s why AEEA is launching the inaugural Marvelous Misfits Competition to celebrate the Unsung Heroes of Arkansas; the least charismatic fauna that may seem hard to love at first but are ultimately deserving of our respect and care.

HOW IT WORKS

Behind this fun competition featuring two unattractive animals is a mission to build environmental awareness in Arkansas. As the Arkansas Environmental Education Association enters its 30th anniversary year, we are seeking to raise $5,000 before December 31 to launch the next chapter of our mission to champion access to high quality environmental and outdoor education for Arkansas communities.

For this inaugural competition, we have nominated two competitors: the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) and the alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii). Chosen for their unique traits and ecological importance, both candidates showcase the weirdly wonderful world of Arkansas wildlife - but which one is the most Marvelous Misfit?

Cast your vote by making a donation for the team that represents your competitor of choice. Whoever receives the most donations wins! Every dollar raised supports environmental educators across the state.

Not sure which misfit is your favorite? Take this short quiz to see which one is most like you and then donate to that team.

Marvelous Misfits: Celebrating Nature's Oddballs

By The Arkansas Environmental Education Association Inc

Marvelous Misfits: Celebrating Nature's Oddballs

The Unsung Heroes of Arkansas's Natural World

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Team Members