Escape to nature and meet the many animals at this South Shore sanctuary - we are exploring the Tackapausha Museum and Preserve on this Road Trip: Close to Home!

On the 84-acre preserve in Seaford you’ll find a museum. As soon as you enter, you’ll be greeted by its animal residents.

All of the animals, including a beautiful Fennec fox, are rescues.

There are so many exhibits about the ecology of Long Island.

There you'll learn about habitats, dinosaurs, and in the nocturnal exhibit you'll find bats and the screech owls.

There are even more animals to visit outside, including the bald eagle, artic fox and a porcupine.

Next, take it to the trails. The preserve itself is the oldest in Nassau County. It’s bordered by Merrick Road and Jerusalem Avenue. You can follow a paved path for an easy walk to the pond.

In the next few weeks, bring your binoculars because it’s a great place to go bird watching.