Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2025-03-19 10:00 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | 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!

Feathers: Birds' Most Distinguishing Feature
2025-10-11 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Join ornithologist Alexa DeJoannis for a talk ALL about feathers!
Feathers are synonymous with birds: all birds have feathers, and only birds have feathers! To us hairy mammals, feathers seem exotic and beautiful. How do feathers accomplish multiple functions at one time?
Ornithologist Alexa DeJoannis gives a good grounding in the form and function of feathers, birds’ most distinguishing feature.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Bats
2025-10-14 14:00 - 15:00 | New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel, FL, 33543, United States
Humans need our beneficial flying friends, the Bats! Come learn more about bats at this educational seminar.
Worldwide there are more than 1,400 species of bats. That is about 20% of all mammal species.
Bats live everywhere on Earth, except in the most extreme deserts and polar regions. Bats consume insects, pollinate plants and disperse seeds. A single bat can eat up to its body weight in insects each night and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.
>>> REGISTER HERE

International Archaeology Day Celebration!
2025-10-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for International Archaeology Day! International Archaeology Day is a celebration of archaeology and its contributions to society.

Pop-Up Exhibits from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Archaeology Talk from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

⚱️Explore a one-day exhibit of pre-Columbian artifacts from the Tampa Bay region and beyond! Archaeologists will illustrate the use of early stone and shell tools and their importance to indigenous people. Bring in found or inherited items such as spear points, tools, and pottery sherds for expert identification.
🌿Discover how indigenous Floridians used native plants in the pop-up “Florida Native Plants Through Time” exhibit. Exhibit designer and plant expert, Ben Metcantade, will also demonstrate how to make fiber-thread from our native yucca plant! Enjoy native plants, books, and resources on sustainable design and the importance of pollinators.
🎤Learn about the fascinating relationship between botany and archaeology in a special presentation from Dr. Christopher A. Kiahtipes, Associate Curator of the University of South Florida Herbarium. Using herbaria as a lens, Dr. Kiahtipes will discuss the intellectual, ethical, and curatorial challenges both disciplines face—especially in the context of our digital culture. Dr. Kiatipes talk is More than Collections: Making the Case for Physical Collections in a Digital World.
>>> GET TICKETS

Lets Walk Florida: Mangrove, Coastal Plants, & Marine Tour
2025-10-23 09:00 - 11:00 | Key Vista Nature Park, 2700 Baillies Bluff Road, Holiday, FL, 34691, United States
Join us for an educational guided walking tour through Werner Boyce Salt Springs Park and help support Let’s Walk Florida.
Join us to walk and learn!
An educational guided nature walk will be led by Dr. Megan Moore, the UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant Agent for Pasco County. You will learn about mangrove identification, coastal plants, oysters, and the ecosystem benefits these systems provide.
We are teaming up with the UF/IFAS Extension Family and Consumer Sciences agent to support the Let’s Walk Florida Program! You are welcome to join us just for a fun educational day or to join the Lets Walk Florida Group!
Let’s Walk, Florida! Is a six-week walking program designed to encourage a physically active lifestyle. Walk anywhere on your own time, but also join the optional structured group walks to not just earn activity minutes, but to learn about our ecosystems. Join the group here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lets-walk-florida-pasco-tickets-1595865609999?aff=oddtdtcreator
We will provide a headset listening device so you can hear the tour easily during the walk! This walk will include boardwalks and dirt paths with around 1.5 miles of total walking. The first half of the tour is on the boardwalk and is much shorter if you want to join and only attend part of the tour! Bring hats, water, and walking shoes.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Florida Orinithological Society Meeting
2025-10-24 - 2025-10-26 | Florida Gulf Coast University, 10501 FGCU Blvd N, Fort Myers, FL, 33965, United States
Field Trips
Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot an impressive variety of species, including herons, ospreys, and the iconic roseate spoonbills, while exploring the mangroves and marshes. These field trips offer not just an opportunity to witness the beauty of nature up close but also serve as a valuable educational experience, highlighting the importance of conservation and preserving these fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
Flocking Social Hours & Banquets
Our flocking social hours provide a delightful setting for bird enthusiasts to unwind, share their experiences from the day’s field trips, and indulge in delicious catered food. These gatherings offer a chance for like-minded individuals to relax, exchange stories, and build connections.
Presentations & Keynote Speakers
Get inspired by passionate ornithological students and professionals who will present their unique findings and contribute a fresh perspective to the field. Our meeting isn’t just about disseminating knowledge; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of avian wonders, get motivated by the passion of fellow enthusiasts, and contribute to the future of bird research and conservation efforts. Join us and be part of an enriching experience that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of our feathered friends and their impact on our world!
To register, go to https://fosbirds.org/meetings-and-events/

Meet your Forest: Tree & Fungi Walk and Talk
2025-01-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Trout Creek Wilderness Park, 12550 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa, 33592, United States
Join UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Urban Forestry Agent, Alyssa Vinson for a walk and talk about our local trees and fungi.
She will cover tree identification techniques, including using iNaturalist to document your findings. Be prepared to walk with closed toed shoes, water, hat etc. A map will be emailed to you the day prior with the exact meeting location. Be aware that the park has a $2 entry fee.
If you have any questions, please contact the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at (813) 744-5519.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Watershed Walk
2025-10-24 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Venture out along our tails with Natural Resources Agent, Lara Milligan!
Water is an important feature at Brooker Creek Preserve and on this hike you will learn the different ways we interact with water, the importance of wetlands and how you can make a difference in issues surrounding our water quality and quantity.
Come and enjoy this family friendly walk through the woods with Lara Milligan, Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Pinellas County!
>>> REGISTER HERE

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

Bats in our Central Florida Neighborhoods
2025-11-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center, 14220 Thornwood Trail, Hudson, FL, 34669, United States
Most of what people think they know about bats is wrong. Come learn all about them at this informative seminar.
Bats are not blind, they are not flying mice, and they wont get tangled in your hair. Yet, we have let our ignorance jeopardize one of Earth’s assets. Bats play a crucial role in ecosystems around the world & their loss would threaten countless plants and animals, diminish human environments and economies. One of the best things we can do to protect these vital but embattled animals is to learn more about them and share that knowledge with others.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Afternoon Adventures: Birding For Beginners
2025-11-01 15:30 - 16:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join our rangers as they teach all about birding, no matter your experience!
Learn what you will to become an avid birder. Explore why birds are important, what dangers they face, and how you can help our flighted friends.
Binoculars will be available for loan.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Biology of Barn Owls and How Boxes Help Them
2025-11-06 18:30 - 20:30 | ZOOM, United States
Presented by Scott Rashid, Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Center
Tampa Garden Club. We’ll meet and eat in person, but speaker will deliver his presentation on Zoom.
In person and Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84959398693

FFL Basic Landscape Design
2025-11-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Pasco County Extension Office, 36702 County Road 52, Dade City, FL, 33525, United States
Concepts & Considerations-central FL
Florida-Friendly Landscaping (FFL) provides a wealth of information useful to design, install and maintain landscapes that are sustainable!

Florida-Friendly landscape designs have the potential to significantly conserve and improve the quality of Florida’s water resources by focusing on more resource-efficient landscapes, correct installation, and best management choices.
The Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program has resources available to help residents and professionals create vibrant landscapes that protect the environment with sustainable landscape and green infrastructure design techniques. While Extension staff cannot “do” design work, this presentation’s information guides you through making best design choices yourself!
What you do in your landscape matters. From the fertilizers you apply to the water you use, your gardening choices can have an impact on land, water, wildlife, and the overall well-being of Florida’s residents.
>>> REGISTER HERE REGISTER HERE

Tiny Wildlife Experience
2025-11-15 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

FFL Basic Landscape Design Copy
2025-11-15 14:00 - 15:00 | Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL, 34654, United States

Selecting and Planting Trees
2025-11-18 17:30 - 18:30 | New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main Street, New Port Richey, FL, 34652, United States
Selecting and Planting Trees:
Right Plant, Right Place
Come join us as we learn the details of how to select, plant and care for trees in our home landscape.
Did you know that in addition to the Right Place, there is also a Right Time to plant a tree?
Join us as we learn the details of how to select, plant and care for trees in our home landscape. Including what time of year is best for planting and why.
Our speaker, Joe Gross, an ISA certified arborist, will speak on tree varieties, how to select the right one for your landscape and proper planting techniques to give your tree a healthy start. Tree selection, planting and maintenance are all important aspects of tree health and longevity. Learn all about it in this information packed seminar.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT

FFL HC Webinar Series: Protect the Waterfront
2025-11-20 10:00 - 11:00 | ZOOM, United States
Part of the Florida Friendly Landscaping ™ (FFL) HC Webinars collection
Join us for the final installment of our Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ webinar series, focusing on “Protect the Waterfront.” Learn how to maintain a beautiful landscape while safeguarding Florida’s precious water resources.
What You’ll Discover:

Best practices for waterfront property management
How to reduce pollution and erosion near water bodies
Plant choices that protect shorelines and aquatic habitats

Don’t miss this chance to learn how your landscaping choices can help preserve Florida’s waterways. Our UF/IFAS experts will share practical tips and answer your questions during the live Q&A session.
Register now and become a steward of Florida’s aquatic environments! Your actions can make a real difference in protecting our state’s water resources.
The mission is to educate Floridians about environmentally friendly landscaping practices and to encourage them to conserve and protect our water resources by applying Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Principles in their landscapes.We will conduct this Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ workshop online, via Zoom. No additional software or extra computer skills are necessary – just click to join!
>>> GET TICKETS

Suncoast Conservation Center
2025-11-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Suncoast Conservation Center, 6650 Dickman Road, Apollo Beach, FL, 33572, United States
We will be having a guided tour of the Suncoast Conservation Center and related facilities that will include learning about sea turtles that have been injured. We will see how they treat them so that they can be released back to their natural habitat. We will also see sea urchins, new fish hatchery and learn about coral restoration. We will learn about their fish hatchery. After a short walk (about 30 minutes) we can view manatees.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with TECO and The Florida Aquarium, presents Suncoast Youth Conservation Center (SYCC), located in sunny Apollo Beach. The 6,000 square foot building offers indoor and outdoor classroom space and is the educational hub for the Florida Conservation and Technology Center. We provide exciting learning opportunities for youth and families while they participate in recreational outdoor activities along the eastern shore of Tampa Bay.
Cost: Free
Bring: Hat, sunglasses, water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, binoculars (optional), snack, camera
Signup Restrictions: Minors under 18 must be accompanied by their parent who must sign a Waiver as the child’s Guardian
>>> REGISTER HERE

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
