Tiny Wildlife Experience
2025-11-15 09:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | 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
2025-01-19 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.

Boat America Classes
2025-08-23 09:00 - 2025-08-24 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

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

Science Rocks!
2025-11-06 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

Bay Babies
2025-01-03 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

Teen Homeschooler Hike
2025-11-07 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

Marine Biology Homeschool Classes
2025-11-07 14:30 - 15:30 | 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 RESERVE A SPOT RESERVE A SPOT RESERVE A SPOT

Women of Pinellas: Shaping Bird Protection in the Early 20th Century
2025-12-06 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Learn about the pioneer women of Pinellas and how they influenced legislation to protect birds during the early 20th century

Join Quinton Spiaggi, volunteer research associate at the Palm Harbor Museum, in this informative presentation about the pioneer women of Pinellas and how they influenced legislation to protect birds during the early 20th century. Women like Katherine B. Tippetts, Elizabeth Skinner Jackson, Dr. Grace Whitford, Myrtle Scharrer Betz, and Lucy Platt Hayes were instrumental in social change during this time period, and we even owe the concept of state birds, like Florida’s northern mockingbird, to their efforts. Considered leaders across Pinellas County and the state of Florida during their lifetime, much of their work has been forgotten until recently.
This program is free and is aimed at all ages, and will feature items from the Palm Harbor Museum’s collection.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Gardening From Seeds for the Home Gardener
2025-12-12 11:30 - 12:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Master Gardener Speaker Series
Gardening From Seeds for the Home Gardener
Why not start your garden with seeds?
Learn different methods and what tools are needed to start seeds successfully and boost seedling survival.
We will also cover how to care for seedling and transplant with confidence, as well as seed sources and how to harvest and preserve seeds for future seasons.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Volunteer Archaeology Lab
2025-01-10 13:00 - 15:00 | 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.

Intro to Plant Identification
2025-12-13 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Explore the major plant groups!

Join James Stevenson and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. An emphasis will be placed on flowering plants.
This class will provide a basic introduction to plant identification. This class is recommended as a precursor for anyone interested in taking our Advanced Plant Identification series in January.
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Birding on the Bay
2024-12-07 16:30 - 18:00 | 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

Mighty Migrations
2025-12-27 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our rangers as we introduce participants to the amazing migratory patterns of birds in Florida!
Through engaging activities and interactive discussions, kids will learn about the significance of migration and the species that call Florida home during their journeys.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Homeschool Classes - Marine Biology
2026-01-02 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

January 2nd 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Lionfish Dissection

Join us to explore the ins and outs of the invasive lionfish. Uncover the truth about these problematic fish through a hands-on dissection and learn what is being done to eliminate them.

February 6th 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Shark Science

Learn what makes sharks successful predators in the ocean and some of the challenges they face. Participants will leave with a new appreciation for these highly evolved (and often misunderstood) fish.

March 6th 2:30 – 3:30 PM
Wild About Dolphins

Join us for a journey into the lives of dolphins – one of the ocean’s most intelligent and charismatic marine megafauna. Discover how these remarkable animals utilize echolocation, communicate with one another, and can be identified as individuals based on their dorsal fins!

April 3rd 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Walking with Wildlife

Join us for a guided walking tour to get a closer look at the wildlife and habitats found nestled along the St Pete Pier. Students will learn how to become citizen scientists by discovering how to properly identify species and how to import their sightings into a global data collection platform.

May 1st 2:00 – 3:30 PM
Eco-Vessel Experience: All About the Bay

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a marine biologist? When you step into our floating classroom, you’ll find out! Join us aboard the Discovery to learn all about our favorite estuary: Tampa Bay! This tour includes wildlife watching, a fisheries trawl to take a closer look at common local species, and an opportunity to participate in real scientific research. We often spot manatees, dolphins, stingrays, birds, fish, and so much more.

May 8th 2:00 – 3:15 PM
Seine the Bay

Wade into shallow seagrass beds and use scientific nets to collect and identify fascinating nearshore creatures. Along the way, we’ll explore the vital connections between coastal habitats and the animals that call them home. Students will uncover the unique adaptations that help these estuary species thrive in their dynamic environment.
All students need to be appropriately dressed with closed-toed shoes and clothing that can get wet (old tennis shoes, water shoes, or dive boots work best). Participants should also bring a towel, change of clothes and dry shoes to change in to afterwards.
This class will be held at the Auer Marine Education Center at 3000 Pinellas Bayway S. Tierra Verde, FL 33715.

Owls, Hawks, Falcons, Oh My!
2025-01-17 15:30 - 17:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Ages 8 yrs – 12 yrs
Join the St. Petersburg Audubon in exploring our apex predators: RAPTORS!
Participants will have the opportunity to dissect an owl pellet, and with the assistance of charts, identify the prey species the owl dined on.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Be a Biologist: Invasive Species
2026-02-28 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
