Halloween hike
2021-10-09 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
Two sessions will allow younger children to enjoy a less scary hike, while the later hike will bring chills and thrills. Both end with s’mores around the campfire.
$5 per person, participants limited to 20, call to reserve your space: 813-641-8545

FLORIDA BIRDING & NATURE FESTIVAL
2021-10-15 - 2021-10-17 | The Manatee Viewing Center, 6990 Dickman Rd, Apollo Beach, FL, 33572, United States
Three days of field and boat trips, expert seminars on Zoom, keynote speakers, and a great nature expo!
In partnership with Hillsborough County’s CELM/ELAPP programs, and hosted by TECO – come celebrate the wonders of the birds, wildlife, and natural lands that we enjoy in West Central Florida.
A three-day festival offering Zoom presentations keynotes field trips boat trips a nature expo a silent auction Zoom presentations where you can learn from renowned professionals, experience peak migration, and shop unique products.
Schedule Details
REGISTER HERE

Mushroom Identification Nature Hike
2021-11-02 08:00 - 11:00, 2021-11-06 08:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Join UF/IFAS for an engaging walk into the fantastic world of fungi on a tour through one of our local natural areas. These walks will focus on practicing skills needed for identification of local mushroom species as well as on the broader ecology associated.
Be prepared to walk a long distance. Appropriate footwear, hat, sunscreen etc. are required. $20 per person to attend.

Register HERE!

Wild Wings Bird Hike
2021-11-13 08:00 - 09:30, 2021-12-11 08:00 - 09:30, 2022-01-08 08:00 - 09:30, 2022-02-12 08:00 - 09:30, 2022-03-12 08:00 - 09:30, 2022-04-09 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Wild Wings –
Birds of Brooker Hike
Have you wondered what bird is singing in your backyard? Do you see and hear birds but don’t know who they are? If so, join us for a Beginning Bird Hike to learn how to identify the county’s common birds as we meander along a one-mile trail.
All ages are welcome. Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and those younger than 6 may find this hike challenging.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants outside the Exhibit Hall 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom (located in the Classroom Building) before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.
Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.
Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.
Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-wings-birds-of-brooker-hike-tickets-53439990450?mc_cid=a4dbfdde6b&mc_eid=1cbba2e07b

Weedon Walkabout
2022-02-05 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-02-19 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-03-05 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-03-19 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of the trails and boardwalks of the Weedon Island Preserve.

This docent-led walk will visit the mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve, including a visit to the Preserve’s 45 ft. tall Observation Tower for a 360 degree view of the area. Learn about the coastal environment, native wildlife, and early history of the Preserve. This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 6 and up.
REGISTER HERE

Walk in Nature with Jazz- Guided Hike
2022-02-06 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Come and take a walk with two retired music teachers who love Brooker Creek and jazz.

We will hear 12 RECORDED excerpts (from 2-4 minutes each) from various jazz styles that refer to the wonderful natural things we see at Brooker. We will walk about a mile and stop and listen as we enjoy the beauty around us. Registration is required for each attendee.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants inside the Exhibit Hall. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.

Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.

Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.

Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.

Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Pets are not permitted.

No smoking is allowed.

Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

REGISTER HERE

Birding Tour: Tom Bennett Park
2022-02-12 07:30 - 10:30 | Tom Bennett Park, 280 Kay Road, Bradenton, FL, 34208, United States
Manatee Audubon Society Birding Tour: Tom Bennett Park
Search the skies for Florida’s fabulous fliers! Our Audubon guide will lead participants on a tour through Tom Bennett Park’s upland and wetland habitats. Check out the “locals” as well as the migratory birds that are wintering here. Program suitable for adults.
Program sponsored by Manatee County Audubon Society in partnership with Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources.
Reservations are required. To register please contact ford.tony23@yahoo.com.
Tom Bennett Park – Playground Parking Lot

Photography Hike
2022-02-12 08:30 - 10:30, 2022-04-09 08:30 - 10:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Walk the boardwalks and natural paths of Weedon Island, capturing photographs of native flora and fauna along the way.

Grab your camera of choice and enjoy a guided tour of the trails at the Weedon Island Preserve! This program will begin with a brief classroom session to highlight the seasonal features of the Preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors, that will help participants capture the natural beauty of the area. Photographers of all skill levels are welcome.
This hike is roughly 2 miles in total length on a combination of boardwalks and unimproved, natural paths. This program is is best suited for adults.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that works to promote education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve. Learn about our Friends!
REGISTER HERE

Sunset Bird Walk
2022-02-18 17:30 - 18:30 | Coquina Beach
Grab your binoculars and enjoy a relaxing sunset stroll on Coquina Beach! Explore the beautiful coastline and look for shorebirds, wading birds and, other feathered friends. Learn how to identify these beach birds and discover their important role in the coastal environment. The program will conclude with a view of Coquina Beach’s iconic sunset. Program suitable for adults.
Binoculars recommended. Reservations are required.
To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/239216381637. For more information please contact elena.burke@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036.
Coquina Beach – Café

Seashell Shore Walk
2022-02-24 09:00 - 10:30 | Coquina Beach
Calling all beachcombers and seashell enthusiasts! Join us for a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them. This program will explore what makes mollusks unique and the amazing adaptations that help them to survive in the wild. Learn about ethical seashell collecting methods while discovering a new appreciation for our beautiful shorelines. Program suitable for all ages.
Reservations are required. To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/239166783287. For more information please contact elena.burke@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036.
Coquina Beach South – Under Longboat Key Bridge

Seashell Shore Walk
2022-03-11 08:00 - 10:30 | Coquina Beach
Calling all beachcombers and seashell enthusiasts! Join us for a relaxing walk on the beach to search for seashells and learn to identify them. This program explores what makes mollusks unique and the amazing adaptations that help them to survive in the wild. Learn about ethical seashell collecting methods while discovering a new appreciation for our beautiful shorelines.
Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required.
To register please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/264396465947.
For more information please contact elena.burke@mymanatee.org or call (941) 742-5923 ext. 6036.
Coquina Beach – South- Longboat Key Bridge

Wading Bird Walk
2022-03-12 08:30 - 10:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Meet the wading birds of the Weedon Island Preserve!

Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of the most common wading birds at Weedon Island Preserve during a one to two mile guided walk of the trails. A brief classroom session before the walk will give visitors an overview of the birds found at Weedon Island, including tips on when and where different species are most likely to be seen.
Proceeds from this program go to the Friends of Weedon Island. The Friends support the Weedon Island Preserve through education, preservation and protection of its habitats, ecology, and cultural history. Become a Friend today!
REGISTER HERE

Rye Preserve Tour
2022-03-19 09:00 - 11:00, 2022-04-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Join the Manatee County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers on an educational stroll.

Take a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Branch and learn about Florida’s native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area.
Suitable for all ages.
Please email special accommodation requests to katiebg@ufl.edu at least 10 days prior to the event.
Register HERE!

Birds of Brooker Hike
2022-03-26 08:00 - 10:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Have you wondered what bird is singing in your backyard?

Do you see and hear birds but don’t know who they are? If so, join us for a Beginning Bird Hike to learn how to identify the county’s common birds as we meander along a one-mile trail. Registration is required.
This is a free hike, however space is limited. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants outside the Exhibit Hall 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom (located in the Classroom Building) before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.

Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.

Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.

Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.

Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Pets are not permitted.

No smoking is allowed.

Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

REGISTER HERE

Walk in Nature with Jazz
2022-03-26 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Come and take a walk with two retired music teachers who love Brooker Creek and jazz.

About this event

We will hear 12 RECORDED excerpts (from 2-4 minutes each) from various jazz styles that refer to the wonderful natural things we see at Brooker. We will walk about a mile and stop and listen as we enjoy the beauty around us. Registration is required for each attendee.

Guided Hike Information
Volunteer Hike Guides will meet participants inside the Exhibit Hall. We strongly suggest all hikers visit the restroom before we begin as there are no facilities along the trail.

Guided hikes are under a mile in length, much of which is on unimproved, uneven sandy trails.

Hikes take about two (2) hours to complete.

Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers or boots.

Insect repellent (bug spray) is strongly recommended in summer months.

Bring plenty of drinking water and a snack.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Pets are not permitted.

No smoking is allowed.

Trained volunteers will guide the hike.

REGISTER HERE

Archaeology Day Hike & Site Visit
2022-03-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Archaeology Day
Hike & Site Visit

Celebrate Florida Archaeology Month with a guided hike to an active archaeological dig-site on Weedon Island.

Led by professional archaeologists with the Florida Public Archaeology Network and the Alliance for Weedon Island Archaeological Research and Education, hike to an active archaeological dig-site on Weeden Island. Attendees will learn about the early peoples that inhabited Weedon Island thousands of years ago, and the ongoing archaeological research being done to better understand these ancient cultures. This hike is recommended for adults and youth ages 12+. Participants should be prepared for a 2 mile hike on uneven terrain.
This hike will be part of our Archaeology Day to celebrate Florida Archaeology Month. Check out the activities also happening inside the Cultural and Natural History Center that day!
REGISTER HERE

CLAM BAYOU PRESERVE ESTUARY WALK
2022-04-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of Clam Bayou Preserve. Learn about this local estuary and the plants and wildlife found in this unique environment. We will meet at the Nature Center and drive over to Clam Bayou as a group.
We recommend that you wear closed-toe shoes and bring a carrier or stroller for young children.

Archaeology Hike
2022-04-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Take a walk through the early history of Weedon Island to learn about the indigenous cultures that lived here long ago.

Led by professional archaeologists with the Florida Public Archaeology Network, hike to an active archaeological dig-site on Weeden Island. Attendees will learn about the early peoples that inhabited Weedon Island thousands of years ago, and the ongoing work being done by researchers to better understand these ancient cultures and how they interacted with their environment.
This hike is recommended for adults and youth ages 12+. Participants should be prepared for a 2 mile hike on uneven terrain.
Proceeds will support the West Central chapter of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), an organization that promotes and facilitates the stewardship, public appreciation, and value of Florida’s archaeological heritage through regional centers, partnerships, and community engagement. Learn about FPAN at https://flpublicarchaeology.org/regions/west-central/.
REGISTER HERE

RAIN GARDEN TOUR
2022-04-16 13:00 - 14:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Learn how to create a rain garden in your yard!
We will discuss rainwater capture techniques, plant selection, and much more!
