Willow Creek is known as Bigfoot country. But what other furry critters creep around in Sasquatch's neck of the woods? Physical evidence of snakes, lizards, owls and hawks is a bit easier to find than bipedal impressions, and you've got an opportunity to behold some of those creatures live and in the flesh/feather (as well as captured on print and canvas) at the Willow Creek Wildlife Festival.

On Saturday, March 28 from noon to 4 p.m., Studio 299 Center for the Arts, in conjunction with Creekside Arts and Education, hosts this free, family-friendly event that has a little something for everyone. Kids can "ooh" and "eww!" with Nature Joe and his bird, reptile and creepy-crawly exhibits, while adults peruse the wilds from the cultured safety of the Studio. The gallery show of wildlife art from local artists features photography, drawing, candles and woodworking. You can also chat up the artists and enjoy complementary refreshments during the all-day gallery reception. Lunch is available for purchase, as well.

So grab your cameras and head out to the land of big trees and the Trinity. And keep your eyes peeled for hairy hitchhikers. You never know.

— Kali Cozyris