Photography Hike
2022-04-09 08:30 - 10:30 (America/New_York) | 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

Birds of Brooker Hike
2022-04-23 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

Spring Migration: Birds and Butterflies Hike
2022-04-30 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Search for migratory birds and butterflies at the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided hike!

During the spring, many species of birds and butterflies begin their migrations from overwintering areas in South or Central America to their breeding grounds in more northerly latitudes. Florida is an ideal stopover point on these migration routes for species to rest and refuel before continuing their long journeys. In Pinellas County, this time of year affords us the opportunity to see many species that aren’t found here year-round or very often at all. Join us for a guided hike led by Ron Smith, an expert on Pinellas County’s bird and butterfly species, to observe some of these migrants at the Weedon Island Preserve.
This hike is recommended for adults.
Proceeds from this hike 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

Wading Bird Walk
2022-05-14 08:30 - 10:30, 2022-09-10 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 <<<

Photography Hike
2022-06-11 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 <<<

Clearwater Audubon Society Bird Walk
2022-10-01 08:00 - 10:00, 2022-11-05 08:00 - 10:00, 2022-12-03 08:00 - 10:00, 2023-01-07 08:00 - 10:00, 2023-02-04 08:00 - 10:00, 2023-03-04 08:00 - 10:00, 2023-04-01 08:00 - 10:00, 2023-05-06 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 nature trail while seeking birds by sight and sound. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them. Meet in Moccasin Lake Parking Lot.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Photography Hike
2022-10-08 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.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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!

Wading Bird Walk
2023-01-19 09:00 - 11:00 | 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 on a guided walk of the trails.

Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of the most common wading birds at Weedon Island Preserve during a guided walk of the trails. This walk will take place during a low tide so participants will have the best chance for viewing wildlife that forage on the exposed tidal flats!
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short overview of the birds found at Weedon Island, including tips on when and where different species are most likely to be seen, before departing for the trails. Total walk distance will be ~1.5 miles.
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!
Spots are limited on this hike so every individual attending must be registered.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Birds of Brooker Hike
2023-01-22 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.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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.

Photography Hike
2023-02-02 09:00 - 11:00, 2023-06-15 09:00 - 11:00 | 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 hike has been timed to coincide with a low tide at the Preserve so participants will have the best chance for viewing wading birds and other wildlife that come to forage on the tidal flats at this time.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a brief introduction 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. This hike is roughly 1.5 miles in total length on a combination of boardwalks and unimproved, natural paths. This program is is best suited for adults.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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!

State of the Bay
2023-02-02 18:00 - 21:00 | UF/IFAS Extension, Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL, 33584, United States
Tampa Audubon is presenting the program State of the Bay, Thursday, Feb 2. The speaker is Joe Whalen, Science Communication Designer and Creator with the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP). The meeting is at the UF/IFAS County Extension Office, 5339 County Line Road 579, Seffner, 33584.
The evening starts with a bird/wildlife photo presentation at 6 pm, followed by a potluck at 7 pm. The presentation starts at 7:30 pm. Everyone is invited to attend, and reservations are not required. You can also participate on Zoom. To join the meeting, click https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5090969712.
If you would like to show photos in the photo presentation, learn how to participate here: https://www.tampaaudubon.org/program. If you’d like to join the potluck, please bring a dish to share.
Whalen’s talk will provide the audience with a comprehensive overview of restoration and community engagement in Tampa Bay. He will also answer questions regarding the successes of the estuary program and the challenges it faces.
TBEP works to measure and communicate the result of its work to the Tampa Bay community. The recently released 2022 “State of the Bay Progress Report” showcases the program’s progression towards its goals across three priorities: clean waters & sediments, thriving habitats & abundant wildlife, and informed, engaged, & responsible community.
Whalen is a science communication designer and creator with the TBEP. With a background in visual arts, communications planning, marketing, and environmental education, Joe uses his skills to amplify the science being done by TBEP and its partners, primarily through digital media platforms like social media and the tbep.org website. Outside of work, he enjoys underwater photography, birdwatching, and playing music in a local rock band.
Tampa Audubon sponsors monthly meetings and field trips, and participates in multiple conservation efforts in the Tampa Bay area. For more information, visit our website at www.tampaaudubon.org or contact Ann Paul, president, at Ann.paul@tampaaudubon.org.

Wading Bird Walk
2023-03-02 09:00 - 11:00, 2023-05-11 09:00 - 11:00 | 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 on a guided walk of the trails.

Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of the most common wading birds at Weedon Island Preserve during a guided walk of the trails. This walk will take place during a low tide so participants will have the best chance for viewing wildlife that forage on the exposed tidal flats!
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10 and up. Youth must be supervised by an adult for the full duration of the program.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. The total hike length may be up to two miles. This hike may traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so please prepare accordingly. Afterwards, attendees will return to the Center to complete an evaluation of the hike and explore the museum exhibits.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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!

Photography Hike
2023-03-24 00:00, 2023-04-13 09:00 - 11:00 | FL
Hike the boardwalks and natural paths of Weedon Island, capturing photographs of native flora and fauna along the way.
Hike the Preserve in search of that perfect shot! After a brief classroom session, enjoy a docent-guided hike of Weedon Island that highlights the seasonal features of the Preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that will help participants capture the natural beauty of the area. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills.
This hike is ~2 miles in total length on a combination of boardwalks and unimproved, natural paths. This hike is is best suited for adults.
REGISTER HERE

Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival
2023-04-07 10:00 - 17:00 | FL
After a hugely successful post-pandemic return to Clearwater Beach in Spring 2022, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival returns to bright and beautiful Clearwater Beach April 7 to 23, 2023! From architectural masterpieces created from Clearwater’s famous sugar sand to concerts, performers and daily entertainment, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival Presented by Visit St. Pete Clearwater is an annual event attracting visitors from around the world. The festival returns to Clearwater Beach for its ninth and biggest year yet with the theme “Decades: A Blast from the Past!”
Due to the overwhelming success of previous Sugar Sand Festival events and the Easter holiday, this year’s festival will again stretch for 17 days which allows people more time to attend, to space out attendees and gives those visiting for Easter a chance to see this incredible and affordable festival.
General admission to the sculpture exhibit will be $14 per person and free for children 3 years old and younger. Discounted tickets for military personnel, police officers, firefighters, teachers and healthcare workers can be purchased for $10 each on “Frontline Fridays,” which are April 7, 14 and 21. These discounted tickets will be available at the gate only with proper identification. All other tickets can be purchased online at SugarSandFestival.com beginning in December 2022.
Each year, the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival continues to grow in popularity and garner national attention. The 2022 event drew more than 200,000 visitors throughout its 17-day run. On Aug. 30, the festival received a 2022 Flagler Silver Award by Visit Florida in the category of Sustainable Tourism Marketing, in addition to numerous other awards. The festival continues to attract visitors from around the world.
About the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival
Fourteen world-class artists craft elaborate sand sculptures from Clearwater’s internationally famous sugar sand. The works of art are on display in a 21,000-square-foot structure. More than 1,000 tons of Clearwater sand takes on a new life, bringing visitors on a “sandtastic” adventure. The festival is a joint effort between Sunsets at Pier 60 Daily Festival, a 501(c)3 organization and the city of Clearwater.

Fort De Soto Field Trip
2023-04-15 08:00 - 10:00 | De Soto National Memorial Park, 8250 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, FL, United States
Spring at Fort De Soto offers a multitude of bird species migrating to their nesting grounds. What will we spot this year? Join us to find out!
This field trip will be capped at 30 participants.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Nature Photography with any Camera
2023-07-22 10:30 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join photographers Karl and Kathleen Nichter for an introduction to nature photography!
Any camera can take great nature photographs! Knowing the basics of composing a photograph, and what your particular camera can do, makes your photos even better. Join nature photographers Karl and Kathleen Nichter for a program on these topics, plus nature photography do’s and don’ts and tips for nature walks with photography in mind.
Although we won’t be taking any photographs during this session, if you have any camera questions bring your camera along and we will do our best to answer them.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Keeping a Nature Journal
2023-07-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Deepen your connection with the natural world through journaling. Learn and try out different journaling techniques used by renowned naturalists. Each participant will receive a simple journal to use during the class and to take home.
Ages 18 yrs & up
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Pinellas County Bee City USA 2023 BioBlitz!
2023-09-02 08:00 - 14:00 | Eagle Lake Park, 1800 Keene Road, Largo, FL, 33771, United States
Join others in the community for a fun, citizen-science effort to record as many species of plants and insects at Eagle Lake Park

Pinellas County has recently been recognized as a Bee City (County) by the non-profit Xerces Society for the Conservation of Invertebrates. Part of our commitment to foster a community that supports insect conservation is to engage citizens in the collection of data on the health of our insect populations.
You are invited to join others in the community for a fun, citizen-science effort to record as many species of plants and insects at Eagle Lake Park on September 2, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. This “Bio-Blitz” using the iNaturalist phone app (free) will give us an idea of the density and diversity of pollinators and the plants they depend on in one park in our county. Educators from the Brooker Creek and Weedon Island Environmental Education Centers will be on hand to get you started at the BioBlitz.
All are welcome to join us to start the blitz at Shelter 3, Eagle Lake Park, 1800 Keene Road, Largo, FL 33771 from 8:00am – 2:00pm.

Backyard Wildlife: Online Workshop
2023-11-03 15:00 - 17:00 | Online Event
Join us for an exciting online workshop dedicated to exploring the wonders of backyard wildlife! Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just curious about the creatures that inhabit your own backyard, this workshop is perfect for you.
On Fri Nov 03 2023 starting at 3 to 5pm, our knowledgeable experts from FWC will present first on Common Backyard Wildlife, to gain better understanding of the species you may find in your backyard and community, followed by UF IFAS presenting on Landscaping for Backyard Wildlife, with insights on how best to support and protect them.
Discover the diverse range of wildlife species that call your backyard home. Learn about their habits, and how to create a welcoming environment for them. From birds and butterflies to squirrels and larger creatures, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of nature.
Through engaging presentations and interactive Q&A sessions at the end, you’ll get a chance to ask questions, expand your knowledge, connect with fellow nature lovers, and become a backyard wildlife expert!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the wonders of backyard wildlife from the comfort of your own home. Register now and get ready for an enriching and educational experience like no other!
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
