Volunteer Archaeology Lab
2025-10-10 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-14 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn how to sort, identify, and clean artifacts and other material from real archaeological sites!

Ages 12+

Join us in the Lab for a hands-on experience in archaeological discovery! Led by professional archaeologists from the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), this volunteer lab gives you the chance to sort, clean, and identify real artifacts uncovered at the Weedon Island Preserve. You’ll learn how archaeologists process materials for study and contribute to ongoing research about the people who once lived in this coastal region. No experience is necessary — just curiosity and a willingness to get your hands dirty!
Who Can Participate:
This lab is open to adults and youth ages 12 and up. Youth must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire session.
Space is limited — registration is required.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of real archaeological work!

Friday, December 12 at 1:00 p.m. — Register today
Friday, January 9 at 1:00 p.m. — Register today

Request A Youth Lab:
If you’re part of a homeschool group and would like to schedule a youth-focused lab, please email westcentral@fpan.us to request a separate Lab session.

Exhibit Treasures: A Scavenger Quest
2025-10-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Explore the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural & Natural History Center’s exhibit gallery with a family-friendly scavenger quest!
This fun and educational indoor scavenger hunt will encourage visitors of all ages to explore the exhibits, artifacts, and displays while learning about the Preserve’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.
Recommended for ages 6+, youth must be accompanied by an adult.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Feathers: Birds' Most Distinguishing Feature
2025-10-11 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join ornithologist Alexa DeJoannis for a talk ALL about feathers!
Feathers are synonymous with birds: all birds have feathers, and only birds have feathers! To us hairy mammals, feathers seem exotic and beautiful. How do feathers accomplish multiple functions at one time?
Ornithologist Alexa DeJoannis gives a good grounding in the form and function of feathers, birds’ most distinguishing feature.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Bats
2025-10-14 14:00 - 15:00 | New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel, FL, 33543, United States
Humans need our beneficial flying friends, the Bats! Come learn more about bats at this educational seminar.
Worldwide there are more than 1,400 species of bats. That is about 20% of all mammal species.
Bats live everywhere on Earth, except in the most extreme deserts and polar regions. Bats consume insects, pollinate plants and disperse seeds. A single bat can eat up to its body weight in insects each night and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Florida Orinithological Society Meeting
2025-10-24 - 2025-10-26 | Florida Gulf Coast University, 10501 FGCU Blvd N, Fort Myers, FL, 33965, United States
Field Trips
Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot an impressive variety of species, including herons, ospreys, and the iconic roseate spoonbills, while exploring the mangroves and marshes. These field trips offer not just an opportunity to witness the beauty of nature up close but also serve as a valuable educational experience, highlighting the importance of conservation and preserving these fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
Flocking Social Hours & Banquets
Our flocking social hours provide a delightful setting for bird enthusiasts to unwind, share their experiences from the day’s field trips, and indulge in delicious catered food. These gatherings offer a chance for like-minded individuals to relax, exchange stories, and build connections.
Presentations & Keynote Speakers
Get inspired by passionate ornithological students and professionals who will present their unique findings and contribute a fresh perspective to the field. Our meeting isn’t just about disseminating knowledge; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of avian wonders, get motivated by the passion of fellow enthusiasts, and contribute to the future of bird research and conservation efforts. Join us and be part of an enriching experience that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of our feathered friends and their impact on our world!
To register, go to https://fosbirds.org/meetings-and-events/

Boat America Classes
2025-10-25 09:00 - 2025-10-26 14:00, 2025-11-22 09:00 - 2025-11-23 14:00 | U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 11-1 Headquarters, 510 North Ft. Harrison Ave, Clearwater, FL, 33755, United States
Boat America Classes
Boat America is a boating certificate class that offers an in-depth and interesting boating safety course, and provides the knowledge needed to obtain a Florida Boating Safety ID Card.

For the convenience of our students, some classes are held online via Zoom. These virtual classes utilize the same instructors and materials you would enjoy during the in-person classes. The schedule below notes whether the class is in person or via Zoom.
To register click on the Registration Form link at the bottom of this page or send an email to the Flotilla 11-1 Public Education Officer at clwtr.auxboating@gmail.com

2025 Boat America Classes

June 28 and 29 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
July 26 and 27 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person
August 23 and 24 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
September 27 and 28 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person
October 25 and 26 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – Zoom
November 22 and 23 – 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In-Person

Class cost includes book.

Register for Boat America class

Lichens - What's Not to Like?
2025-10-25 11:00 - 12:00 | Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th Street, Dade City, FL, 33523, United States
Look! Up in the tree! It’s an alga! It’s a fungus! It’s both! It’s a superlichen!
Come discover the fascinating world of lichens during a hands-on presentation that will be of interest to students and adults. These amazing ‘organisms’ are combinations of fungal tissues embedded with algal cells. Lichens exist in a symbiotic relationship known as mutualism in which both member species benefit from the partnership. You may be surprised to learn who was one of the first people to discover what lichens really are. Examine the wide variety of lichen colors, shapes, growth patterns, and even ‘behaviors.’ Learn about lichens’ ecological importance to other members of their habitat. There’s even an economic importance to humans as they may use lichens in some of their hobbies.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Introduction to iNaturalist app
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 | J. B. Starkey Wilderness Park Education Center, 10500 Wilderness Road, New Port Richey, FL, 34655, United States
Don Fraser will give a practical introduction to the iNaturalist app.
If you’re not already making use of this simple and exciting app, you probably should be. Whether your primary interest is birds, butterflies, or anything flora and/or fauna, this is the app for you.
Don will help us all make the most of the features this app offers, so this will be a great opportunity to learn something really useful.

Bats in our Central Florida Neighborhoods
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center, 14220 Thornwood Trail, Hudson, FL, 34669, United States
Most of what people think they know about bats is wrong. Come learn all about them at this informative seminar.
Bats are not blind, they are not flying mice, and they wont get tangled in your hair. Yet, we have let our ignorance jeopardize one of Earth’s assets. Bats play a crucial role in ecosystems around the world & their loss would threaten countless plants and animals, diminish human environments and economies. One of the best things we can do to protect these vital but embattled animals is to learn more about them and share that knowledge with others.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Afternoon Adventures: Birding For Beginners
2025-11-01 15:30 - 16:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our rangers as they teach all about birding, no matter your experience!
Learn what you will to become an avid birder. Explore why birds are important, what dangers they face, and how you can help our flighted friends.
Binoculars will be available for loan.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Science Rocks!
2025-11-06 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-12-04 10:00 - 11:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Science Rocks is FREE and hosted by the Clearwater Community Woman’s Club.
This class is designed for children ages 4-6 years old, and all must be accompanied by a guardian. The class will cover many different science topics through literature, hands-on activities, discussion, art activities, and invited speakers.
There is a maximum of 12 students for each class.
Registration is required for the children only. Please make plans now before classes fill up!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
The date/topic for the Science Rocks classes is as follows and is always 10:15am to 11:30am:
September 4: The Scientific Method
October 2: Sea Life
November 6: Gobble, Gobble…Turkeys
January 8: Germs, what are they?
February 5: Teeth First, Food Second
March 5: Rabbits
April 2: The Secret Life of Plants
May 7: Cats…Meow, Meow
Communication with teachers: [sciencerocksmoccasin@gmail.com](mailto:sciencerocksmoccasin@gmail.com)
Classes held at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL 33759. 727-562-4315, then press 1.

Biology of Barn Owls and How Boxes Help Them
2025-11-06 18:30 - 20:30 | ZOOM, United States
Presented by Scott Rashid, Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Center
Tampa Garden Club. We’ll meet and eat in person, but speaker will deliver his presentation on Zoom.
In person and Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84959398693

Bay Babies
2025-11-07 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-11-08 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-05 11:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Come join us with your young scientists!
Ages 3 – 6
This program is for the youngest ocean explorers. Bay Babies is offered for 3 to 6 year olds monthly. Each session may include story time, crafts, activities, and animal interactions to keep your little one(s) engaged and excited.
Program is held in our indoor classroom and space is limited.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Children must have an accompanying adult in the classroom. Due to space constraints, only one adult per child is allowed.

Teen Homeschooler Hike
2025-11-07 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-12-05 11:00 - 12:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Teens are invited to explore the woods of “Our Wildest Place”!
Join us on an educational guided hike geared toward teens! We’ll explore the native plants and animals that call Brooker Creek home with Volunteer hike guide and naturalist, Sara Ratza.
Participants are welcome to bring a lunch to enjoy after the hike together.
Registration is required. Space is limited and this hike will cap at 20 participants. Please register just your teen, ages 13+.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This hike is for our teens to connect with fellow teens, parents are welcome to join, but parents with younger siblings can wait in the Exhibit Hall. This is not a drop-off program. Meet in the Exhibit Hall.

Marine Biology Homeschool Classes
2025-11-07 14:30 - 15:30, 2025-12-05 13:00 - 14:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Dive into Marine Biology with Tampa Bay Watch!
Tampa Bay Watch is thrilled to introduce a brand-new marine biology unit designed specifically for local homeschoolers. Join us at the beginning of each month for an exciting, hands-on learning experience!
These student-only sessions are perfect for curious minds ages 6 and up, offering opportunities to explore marine ecosystems and engage with real-world science. Whether you drop in for a single class or register for the full series, each session promises discovery, adventure, and fun.
Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!
$20 per participant
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

October 3rd 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Invertebrate Investigation

Get up-close and personal with some fascinating residents of our estuary as we dive into the world of invertebrates. What makes an invertebrate an invertebrate? Students will explore this question through interactive encounters with animals like sea stars and horseshoe crabs. We’ll sharpen our observation skills and practice scientific classification in a fun, engaging environment.

November 7th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Squid Dissection

What do snails, clams, and octopuses have in common? In this hands-on program, students will discover what makes a mollusc a mollusc! A guided squid dissection will help us uncover the special traits that unite this diverse group of animals and learn about the many molluscs that call our region home. From shells to squishy bodies, the lesson will be full of surprises and science.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
December 5th 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Iguana Intel

How did iguanas even end up in Florida, and why are they thriving? Students will scope out the story behind these scaly invaders, explore what makes them so successful in our environment, and learn how their presence impacts native wildlife and habitats. A combination of wildlife observation and conservation science, this program empowers students to take action and become stewards of Florida’s natural ecosystems.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
December 5th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Iguana Dissection

Ages 12+
In this hands-on dissection experience, students will explore the anatomy and adaptations of these reptiles in more detail to better understand their impact on local ecosystems. We’ll also discuss practical ways to protect Florida’s native species and habitats from this persistent invasive species.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Edible Landscaping Pasco
2025-11-08 09:00 - 10:00 | Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Land O' Lakes, FL, United States
Creating an edible landscape need not be expensive or labor intensive. Come learn more about them at this seminar.
Any landscape can provide edible crops by choosing attractive, well mannered plants. Creating an edible landscape need not be expensive or labor intensive. Even a modest container grown edible landscape can produce a bountiful harvest.
Edible landscapes are also a natural at attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Discover which edible fruits, vegetables, herbs and even flowers you can integrate into your existing landscape.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Basic Vegetable Gardening
2025-11-10 14:00 - 15:00 | Daniel A Cannon Memorial Library, 33701 County Road 52, Saint Leo, FL, 33525, United States
For novice gardeners, learn the basics. For intermediate to advanced gardeners, take a refresher course to improve your knowledge.
Basic vegetable gardening in Florida is easier than you think. There is nothing better than going to the garden to pick vegetables to serve your family. The freshness and how great they taste may even surprise you.
For novice gardeners, learn the basics. For intermediate to advanced gardeners, take a refresher course to improve your knowledge. If you give vegetables the growing conditions they prefer and do a little planning, you can grow fresh nutritious vegetables most of the year in Florida.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Birding on the Bay
2025-11-15 08:30 - 10:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center Presents:
Birding on the Bay with the MFA

Join us for an unforgettable birdwatching experience on the waters of Tampa Bay! This 75-minute guided boat tour offers a front-row seat to the fascinating bird species that call this vibrant ecosystem home. During the tour, we’ll visit a nearby bird sanctuary island, strategically timed to provide the best viewing opportunities for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
As we navigate the waters, your expert guide will share insightful details about the diverse bird species you’ll encounter, from elegant waders to soaring seabirds. With our prime location and optimal timing, you’re sure to enjoy exceptional views of these feathered residents as they go about their daily routines.
This tour is perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to explore the rich wildlife of Tampa Bay in a relaxed and educational setting.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
More Information

75 Minutes
$45 ($5 member discount offered)
Tour includes admission to the MFA and TBWDC.
Children under 3 free
November 2024 to February 2025

What to Bring
-You are welcome to bring your own snacks and/ or beverages.
-We do not allow alcohol on the eco-vessel.
-Please dress with consideration to the Florida climate and weather.
-Sun protection is highly recommended.

Tiny Wildlife Experience
2025-11-15 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Wildlife abounds at the Weedon Island Preserve, especially the tiny kind, like butterflies, bees, crabs and other invertebrates. Join Center naturalist Liz Childress to learn how to see Weedon’s little creatures and discover the hidden beauty of the Preserve. The Experience starts with a short program, followed by a leisurely stroll weather permitting. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
The total walk length will be variable, but no more than a mile or so. We will traverse uneven, natural paths and boardwalks so please prepare accordingly. Close-toed shoes are highly recommended.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth must be supervised by an adult.

Saturday, December 20 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today
Saturday, January 17 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today

Sensory Sundays
2025-11-16 08:30 - 10:30 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Sensory programs at the Discovery Center are thoughtfully designed for individuals on the Autism Spectrum or with other sensory processing differences. During scheduled times, our exhibit hall will adopt lower lighting, decreased noise levels, and focus on learning with the senses. All who would benefit from a lower sensory experience and hands-on learning are welcome!
For all ages! • 2 Hours
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult while in the classroom
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Birding Made Easy
2025-11-16 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
How everyone from beginners to advanced birders can use Merlin and eBird to enhance their birding.
Speaker/leader: John Ficken
Join us for our November Meeting and Program. John will start with a short slide presentation to introduce you to the latest updates to these birding tools from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Afterward, we’ll head out into the field to try them in action
Location: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom

Stelliferous Ancient Skies – Maya Astronomy
2025-11-19 19:00 - 20:00 | Bishop Museum of Science ﻿and Nature, 201 10th St. West, Bradenton, FL, 34205, United States
Join us in the Planetarium at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature as we explore the Maya masters of astronomy! Dive into the mythology behind the movement of celestial bodies, uncover the astronomical secrets hidden within incredible feats of architecture, unlock the intricate puzzle of the Maya calendar, and get lost in the legends of Maya constellations.
Doors open at 6:30pm. The presentation begins at 7 pm inside the Planetarium.
Preregistration required.
$10/$3 for Members/Members under 17; $15/$5 for Non-Members/Non-Members under 17.
Beer and wine cash bar available.
Seating in the Planetarium is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Be a Biologist: Tortoises
2025-11-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our scrub habitat where you become the biologist.
Take a hike with our rangers and learn all about our unique population of gopher tortoises.
During the hike, participants will help with a citizen science activity.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
