Backyard Wildlife: Online Workshop
2023-11-03 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 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

Managing Our Underwater World in Tampa Bay
2023-11-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Meet the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves program and learn about the coastal resources they protect in Tampa Bay.
The Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves (TBAP), managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection, highlight the best of what our state has to offer: open water, inlet bays, tidally influenced creeks and rivers, oyster reefs, seagrass beds, salt marshes and mangrove forests. These habitats are vital to Florida’s iconic wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, fishes, oysters, and an abundance of wading, nesting and migratory birds. Although not widely known, TBAP even has a variety of corals in its hard-bottom areas. Join the TBAP program at Weedon Island to learn how they are working to restore & protect the coastal resources in our own backyard.
This program will feature Dr. Randy Runnels of the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves Program. Dr. Runnels earned his PhD in Oceanography from Texas A&M University. His 30+ year career has taken him from the temperate Northern Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Keys. In recent years he has been invited to China and Vietnam as a coastal management adviser on a number of issues. He has managed Tampa Bay’s aquatic preserves for over two decades, and continues to teach college courses in Biology, Marine Science and Environmental Science.
This program is recommended for adults and youth ages 12+. Youth should be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.

>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Where Did the Snakes Go?
2023-11-04 13:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Where Did the Snakes Go?
The Parasite Behind Pygmy Rattlesnake Declines
Learn about new research from the University of Central Florida’s Biology Department!
Precipitous declines of Sistrurus miliarius are spatially and temporally consistent with the initial invasion of the lung parasite, Raillietiella orientalis (RO). RO is suspected to have been introduced by the established Burmese pythons in South Florida and causes disease in snakes native to the southeastern United States. Eighteen species of native snakes are documented as definitive hosts in Florida but pathology and risk of disease development between species is understudied. During this program, Jenna will introduce the invasive lung parasite, uncover what species are at risk of infections in the southeastern US, and why pygmy rattlesnakes are an exceptionally vulnerable host.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Botany Walk
2023-11-17 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
We will identify wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adult participants. 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

Bugs & Butterflies for Beginners
2023-11-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
This class is an introduction wonderful world of insects!

What is that bug? Does it bite? Is it REALLY a bug? This class will introduce participants to the wonderful world of insects, including butterflies, found throughout Pinellas County. Learn how to identify major groups of insects and their ecological importance. Recommended for adults and families.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
>>> REGISTER HERE

Drought Tolerant Plants 101
2023-12-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Keep your landscape looking beautiful with the right plants.
Learn how to choose beautiful drought tolerant plants for your landscape and know what to put back on the shelf! Valrie Massey, Horticulture Program Assistant, will show samples of Florida friendly plants suitable for Manatee County residents and discuss the difference between the good and the bad plant!
Minimum class size is required or class will be postponed. All those that register will be notified if postponed.
Contact: Valrie (941) 722-4524 Ext 1829 or vmassey@ufl.edu for further class information.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Science Rocks!
2023-09-07 10:30 - 11:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
This free event at Moccasin Lake Nature Park is hosted by the Clearwater Community Women’s Club, and it covers a range of science topics through hands-on activities, discussion and crafts. Registration is required by emailing ScienceRocksMoccasin@gmail.com.
Sept. 7: 5 Senses
Oct.5: Water
Nov. 2. Bees
Jan. 4: Push/Pull
Feb. 1: Flight
Mar. 7: Frogs and Toads
April 4: The Sun
May 2: 3 States of Matter

Let's Chat About Bats
2023-12-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

Wading Bird Walk
2023-12-28 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 key behaviors of our most common wading birds at the Weedon Island Preserve during a guided hike of the trails.
A brief classroom session before the hike will give visitors an overview of the birds found on the Preserve, including tips on when and where these species are most likely to be seen. This guided tour may be up to 2 miles in total length and will traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so please prepare accordingly. This tour is recommended for adults. Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Talons, Beaks & Feathers Camp
2024-01-02 08:00 - 17:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Camps will join Natalie Lloyd to learn how to identify bones, tracks, and scat through daily hikes in the preserve.
Ages 7 yrs – 11 yrs
>>> REGISTER HERE

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-01-03 10:00 - 11:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
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!
>>> REGISTER HERE

Butterfly and Bird-Attracting Native Plants & Trees
2024-01-04 10:00 - 11:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn how to attract birds & butterflies with natives!
Bird and butterfly populations are in decline worldwide and their fates are intertwined. Join us for an informative class about what we each can do in our own backyards and neighborhoods by adding appropriate plants and changing practices to support these beautiful creatures and bring life back into our communities.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Insect Investigation Hike
2024-01-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join a ranger on a guided hike that will take you on a journey through a diverse ecosystem, where you will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of insects that call Boyd Hill Nature Preserve home. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Snail Kites in Florida
2024-01-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Hammock Hall, 3010 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
The Everglades Snail Kite is a bird of prey, similar to a hawk, that eats only snails. After draining the Everglades, their population plummeted. Our speaker will explain the relationship between the Everglades Snail Kite and an introduced, non-native snail species which may have saved the snail kite from extinction.

Speaker Bio: Robert J. Fletcher Jr. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida. He is the principal investigator for the snail kite monitoring program. He is a big fan of laughter, critical thinking, and integrating diverse perspectives into ecology, conservation, and management.

The Friends of Boyd Hill Nature Preserve and the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department present the annual Natural History Speaker Series (NHSS), a program that offers fascinating presentations on the natural and cultural history of Florida by individuals who are authorities in their fields. NHSS programs are offered the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Hammock Hall, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

Naturalist Guided Tour
2024-01-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Explore the coastal and upland ecosystems of Weedon Island on this guided tour of the Preserve.

Participants will learn about the environment, native wildlife, and early history of Weedon Island on this guided hike.
This tour is for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth must be supervised by an adult. 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 tour may traverse uneven, natural paths or boardwalks so please prepare accordingly.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Wildlife & Plant Identification
2024-01-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This program invites adults and children to develop various camping skills together. Some of the topics covered include: wildlife and plant identification, foil wrapped foods, backpacking basics, and much more! All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Florida-Friendly: Landscape Maintenance 101
2024-01-13 12:00 - 13:30 | Online Event
Join us to learn how to maintain your landscape.
Good landscape design should be followed by appropriate maintenance practices. Join us to learn about Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ practices and how they, when applied, can protect our precious water resources. Topics of discussion are proper plant selection, planting and plant establishment, sprinkler system efficiency and watering schedule. We will also touch on microirrigation and keeping your landscape healthy with proper pruning techniques.
Register Here

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles
2024-01-16 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Let’s create sustainable landscapes together!
This presentation is for Hillsborough County residents/employees only.
Join us for a presentation on the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Nine Principles! Explore the essential benchmarks for recognition and acquire valuable insights into crafting an attractive, environmentally conscious landscape that aligns with the program’s guidelines. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just beginning, this event is customized for you. Our presentation will walk you through the steps to meet the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ criteria for recognition, providing valuable knowledge about the Nine Principles that support environmentally mindful landscaping in Florida. Be part of a community of like-minded individuals committed to developing resilient and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces.
This workshop will be offered online via ZOOM. No additional software is required and only basic computer skills are necessary.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

The Gift of Trees
2024-01-18 10:00 - 12:00 | UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join us for a crash course in trees. We will cover the value of trees in our communities, tree selection and planting, maintenance, pruning and long term care considerations.

Youth Florida Forest Hike
2024-01-19 09:00 - 10:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out on the trails with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan to learn all about her most favorite thing…TREES!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES! Join Lara on a hike to learn about all of the amazing things these giant plants can do! Targeted for elementary and middle school aged youth.
Meet in the Education Center. Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

Introduction to Tree Identification
2024-01-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Celebrate Florida Arbor Day!
In honor of Florida Arbor Day, we are celebrating TREES!
There are hundreds of tree species in Florida and identification can be overwhelming, but we have to start somewhere! Join your local Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan as she walks you through the basics you need to know to begin your tree identification journey. This will include a 45-minute presentation targeted for adults. Come ready to take notes!
>>> REGISTER HERE
