Lehigh County 4-H Livestock Club members recently spent a rainy afternoon learning to be a scientist and good animal caretakers with Veterinarian Marie Weber.

4-H members brought fecal samples from their own animals to investigate.

After learning the basics of using a microscope, they conducted a fecal float.

Looking through the microscope, the 4-H members searched for parasites which are normally unseen to the naked eye.

Weber, a veterinarian who practices at Highland Animal Hospital, graduated from Penn State University.

She talked to the 4-H members about internal parasites and showed them how to take a fecal sample.

Weber also brought samples to look at under the microscope.

The members identified some common parasites and how to control them, making their animals healthier and happier.

The club was busy at this meeting since the annual banquet was canceled, they decided to hold a mini ceremony.

Awards were given out for the Regional Stockman Contest Lehigh County High Scores and Outstanding Project Books.

For the Seniors, first place was awarded to Jonas Geiger, and second place was awarded to Kamryn Fink.

For the Juniors, first place was awarded to Samuel Lazarus, and second place awarded to Levi Lazarus.

The Outstanding Project books for Dairy Beef and Market Lamb were awarded to Trevor Bowman, Market Beef was awarded to Jonas Geiger, and the Market Goat and Market Pig were awarded to Kamryn Fink.

It was a fun meeting for members young and old.

To find local 4-H programs, visit the Penn State Extension website at extension.psu.edu/programs/4-h or call the 4-H office at 610-391-9840.