Walking With Wildlife
2025-12-20 09:00 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Guided Nature Walking Tour Along the St Pete Pier
The new St Pete Pier offers a variety of amenities for locals and tourists alike. However, humans are not the only ones who can be found soaking up the Florida sun! Join us for a guided walking tour to get a closer look at the wildlife and habitats found nestled into the St Pete Pier.
During this 90 minute walking tour, participants 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. There will be multiple stopping points along the way as we examine the interactions between humans and nature while conducting citizen science.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Hidden Wonders Nature Walk
2025-12-20 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This family-friendly nature hike will take you on an exploration of the wet and dry habitats of “Our Wildest Place.”
This family-friendly nature hike will take you on an exploration of the wet and dry habitats of “Our Wildest Place.” We will investigate some interesting plants and animals that call Brooker Creek Preserve home. Everyday reveals new natural wonders to enjoy, join us!
Registration is required.

Rye Preserve Tour
2025-12-20 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
Guided tour through Rye Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!

Take a hike through upland habitats along the beautiful Rye Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants, natural history, and early settlement of the area.
Suitable for all ages.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Canoe Paddle Tour
2025-12-20 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-03 09:00 - 11:00 | Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center, 4202 24th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
Enjoy an hour and half of easy paddling on the Little Manatee River loop with your guide.
Three seater canoe rentals or 1 person kayaks can be rented for $25.
Or bring your own canoe or kayak and join us with a $5 donation.
Reserve your canoe or kayak by calling the office at 813-641-8545. Limited availability.

Tiny Wildlife Experience
2025-12-20 09:30 - 11:00, 2026-01-17 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

Birding on the Bay
2025-12-20 16:30 - 18:30 | 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.

Night Hike in the Preserve
2025-12-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
At night, the world is full of sounds and smells very different from the daytime.
Join the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve for a one-mile hiking experience along the Ed Center Trail…at night! These special hikes are open to the public and limited to 20 people per hike. A $3 per person donation is requested.
Hikes are led by Preserve volunteers who are knowledgeable about nocturnal wildlife. The hike is about one-mile in length and will take about 1.5 hours.
Space is limited, registration is required. Please be courteous and do not register unless you plan to attend and cancel your reservation if you can no longer attend.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
These hikes are for adults and families only. Children must be accompanied by parents. Please leave your pets at home. Pets are not permitted in County Preserves.
You MUST ARRIVE BY 7:15PM, the Preserve gates will be closed after that.
Meet at the main parking lot at Brooker Creek Preserve. You must pre-register for the night hikes!
Questions: info@FriendsOfBrookerCreekPreserve.org or 727-934-2680.

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-12-24 10:00 - 15:30, 2025-12-31 10:00 - 15:30, 2026-01-07 10:00 - 15:30, 2026-01-14 10:00 - 15:30, 2026-01-21 10:00 - 15:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Explore reptiles with a friendly expert, get your questions answered, and level up your knowledge in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session.

Dennis is the president of the Suncoast Herpetological Society, Inc. and spends his Wednesdays at Moccasin Lake Nature Park educating guests about reptiles.

Come with your questions!

Perico Preserve Tour
2025-12-27 09:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-24 09:00 - 11:00 | Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Guided tour through Perico Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer.

Explore one of Manatee County’s newest preserves and learn about Florida’s native plants, how they benefit wildlife, and how they can be used in the home landscape. Learn about the wide variety of ecosystems on display and how the preserve was transformed into what it is today.
Suitable for all ages.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
Please meet at the pavilion right next to the parking lot.
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Hiking into the Horizons
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 park rangers for the last hike of the year at the Preserve.
Walk through the preserve and plan your new year’s resolution.
Ages 12 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

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.

Bird Walk
2026-01-03 08:00 - 09:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the St. Petersburg Audubon Society for a birdwatching hike at Boyd Hill, where you’ll spot a variety of native species while learning about their habits and habitats.
Perfect for bird enthusiasts of all levels! Binoculars are available for loan.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Audubon Guided Bird Walk
2026-01-03 08:00 - 10:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Take a guided hike on Moccasin Lake’s newly renovated nature trail while seeking birds by sight and sound.
Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them.
Meet in Moccasin Lake Parking Lot. Free event!

>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Emerson Point Preserve Tour
2026-01-03 09:00 - 11:00 | Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Guided tour of Emerson Point Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!
First Saturday of the month (November – April), at 9:00am
Casually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment. Suitable for all ages.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the classroom).
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Weedon Island Naturalist Guided Tour
2026-01-03 09:30 - 11:00, 2026-01-10 09:30 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Take a walk through some of Weedon Island’s coastal habitats on a guided tour of the Tower Boardwalk. Led by a knowledgeable Center naturalist, this tour offers a chance to explore the Preserve’s diverse ecosystems, native wildlife, and rich cultural history.
Designed for adults and youth ages 10 and up (youth must be accompanied by an adult), this tour is a great way to learn about Florida’s environment and how people have interacted with it for thousands of years. Climb the stairs to the top of the Observation Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area!
The walk will cover approximately 1 mile along paved paths and boardwalks. Some transitional areas may be uneven, so please wear sturdy shoes and prepare for outdoor conditions.

Saturdays, December 6 & 13 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today
Saturdays, January 3 & 10 at 9:30 a.m. — Register today

Space is limited — register today to secure your spot on this engaging and educational walk through the Preserve!

Exploration Hike
2026-01-03 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us for a guided daytime hike through the Preserve, perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
Learn about the history of Boyd Hill, its diverse ecosystems, and enjoy the beautiful trails as our knowledgeable rangers share insights into the preserve’s natural wonders.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve Tour
2026-01-10 09:00 - 11:00 | Fort DeSoto Park, 8250 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Guided tour through DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve with a Master Gardener Volunteer!

Second Saturday of the month (November – May), at 9:00am
Casually stroll through the beautiful Riverview Pointe Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment.
Suitable for all ages.

>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Tour begins in the parking area of DeSoto National Memorial Park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve.
Special Accommodations:
The University of Florida is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. For disability accommodations such as sign language interpreters and listening devices, please contact our office at (941) 722-4524 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Nature Riders
2026-01-10 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Get ready to pedal your way through nature in our bike hike!
This guided bike hike combines the thrill of biking with the beauty of the great outdoors, providing participants with a unique opportunity to explore our trails and learn about nature along the way.
Must bring own helmet.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Family Night Hike
2026-01-10 18:30 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Bring the whole family for our monthly family night hike at Boyd Hill.
Explore the trials under the stars, discover nocturnal wildlife, and enjoy the wonders of nature together on this fun and educational adventure.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Wildflower Walk
2026-01-17 13:00 - 14:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of native Florida flowers on this ranger-led hike.
Join us monthly to discover which flowers are in bloom and learn about their unique beauty and ecological importance in our area.
All ages welcome with a registered adult.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
