Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-01-10 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-01-17 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | 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 <<<

Birding at Bahia Preserve
2024-01-11 08:00 - 10:30 | Bahia Beach Nature Preserve, 2513 Shell Point Road, Ruskin, FL, 33570, United States
This ELAPP property, acquired in 2001, consists of wetlands which give excellent viewing opportunities of wading birds and ducks. We’ll meet at 8:00 in the parking lot. The surface is mostly level and dry, and the pace is slow. The one-way trail is 0.7 miles (total 1.4 miles in and out). No toilet facilities are available. Wear sun protection and bring mosquito repellent just in case, as well as water and snacks.
Important! Pre-registration is required and participation is limited to the first 10 people who sign up. Please do not attend this or any Tampa Audubon Society events if you have flu, cold, or covid symptoms. Tampa Audubon is committed to reducing the spread of illnesses. The health and safety of our members is of the highest priority.
Pre-registration is required. Contact trip leader Lilian Saul at: lily.saul@tampaaudubon.org to join.

Book Time at Brooker
2024-01-11 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-01-18 10:30 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Bring your pre-schooler to Book Time at Brooker.

Bring your Preschooler to this program designed to connect them to the wonders of the natural world. In addition to hearing a great story, your child will participate in a craft related to the story that is read. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Registration is not required for Book Time, just show up with your kiddo! This program is led by Brooker Creek Volunteers.
Additional Notes: It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the Education Center building. We will start promptly at 10:30am. Follow signs to the Exhibit Hall.
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.

Tot Time
2024-01-12 08:00 - 17:00, 2024-01-12 10:30 - 11:30 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Families with little ones can enjoy nature-themed stories and crafts at the Weedon Island Preserve.
Families of pre-school aged children are invited to explore the wonders of the natural world at the Weedon Island Preserve. Families will be treated to rhymes, stories, songs, crafts, and other activities that connect them to our environment.
Activities are intended for youth aged 3-5.
Parents or guardians only need to register the youth(s) attending, but must accompany them for the duration of the program. This program will take place inside the Cultural and Natural History Center unless otherwise specified.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.

Botany Walk
2024-01-12 09:30 - 11:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join James Stevenson to explore the fascinating plants found at Brooker Creek Preserve!
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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
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

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.
A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
Pets are not permitted.
No smoking is allowed.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.

DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve Tour
2024-01-13 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.
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.
Tour begins in the parking area of DeSoto National Memorial Park and enters into Riverview Pointe Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
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.

Naturalist Guided Tour
2024-01-13 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-01-20 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 <<<
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!

Turtle Science
2024-01-13 09:00 - 15:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This engaging hands-on class will introduce the study of tortoises and freshwater turtles. Join turtle biologist and environmental educator George L. Heinrich for this rare educational opportunity.
Students will learn about the ecology and conservation of tortoises and freshwater turtles through a blend of classroom and field sessions. Classroom sessions include PowerPoint presentations and hands-on activities; field sessions will include lessons on identification techniques and data collection.
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Schedule:
November 11, 2023

Why Turtles Are Cool (classroom session).
Search for turtles along the preserve’s trails (field session).

December 9, 2023

Gopher Tortoises + Prescribed Fire = Increased Biodiversity (classroom session).
Search for tortoises and their burrows in the preserve’s uplands, and learn how to conduct a burrow survey and estimate population size (field session).

January 13, 2024

Turtle Anatomy: The Clues Are in the Bones (classroom session).
Examine skeletal material in the field (field session).

February 10, 2024

In One End and Out the Other: Determining Turtle Diets by Studying Scat (classroom session).
Collect and dissect gopher tortoise scat (field session)

March 9, 2024

Turtle Nesting Ecology (classroom session).
Search for turtles in the preserve’s diverse habitats (field session).

April 13, 2024

Global Turtle Conservation Issues (classroom session).
Search for gopher tortoises in the preserve’s uplands (field session).

May 11, 2024

Field trip to Rainbow Run in Dunnellon, Florida (canoe and snorkel).

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

Cultivating Biodiversity with a Rain Garden
2024-01-13 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join the rangers for a tour of the Boyd Hill Rain Garden and learn about how to implement one to enjoy the benefits of water filtration, flood control, and enhanced biodiversity in your own yard!
Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Build a Bird House
2024-01-13 14:00 - 16:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Join us for a family nature program, immerse yourself in the beauty of winter as we explore the fascinating world of Florida’s winter birds and get creative by building bird houses together!
Ages 10 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Natural Suncatchers
2024-01-14 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Create a beautiful and delicate suncatcher that captures the essence of nature with an easy to make craft project. This suncatcher will feature intricate designs and colors inspired by the natural world.
>>> 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 <<<
**Registrants will receive an emailed Zoom link to access the Webinar the day before the program. *If you do not receive the Zoom link, please check your spam folder for an email from Angie Maki (makia@hillsboroughcounty.org). If no link is received, please contact Angie at 813-744-5519 Ext. 54127 for assistance.
Closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
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 Lynn Barber, barberl@hillsboroughcounty.org or 813-744-5519 ext. 54105 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.
For questions contact: Michael Masucci at: 813-744-5519 ext. 54146 or MasucciM@ufl.edu.
The University of Florida is an equal opportunity institution.

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 <<<
In case you missed it, we have a whole line-up of activities for Florida Arbor Day:
9am – THIS Youth Florida Forest Hike
11am – Youth Papermaking Class!
All Day – Hands-on Exploration Stations in the Education Center

Florida Arbor Day: Youth Papermaking
2024-01-19 11:00 - 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!
Explore the inside and outside of trees with a hands-on activity! Many products we use everyday are derived from trees, and we’re going to learn how to make our own paper! Targeted for elementary and middle school aged youth.
Registration is required. Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<
Additional Notes: This program will be held in our auditorium. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the auditorium. We will start promptly at 11am. Follow signs to the auditorium.
In case you missed it, we have a whole line-up of activities for Florida Arbor Day:
9am – Youth Florida Forest Hike
11am – This Papermaking Class!
All Day – Hands-on Exploration Stations in the Education Center

Circle B Bar Preserve
2024-01-20 | Circle-B-Bar Reserve
Circle B Bar Preserve – Polk County
(One of our most popular field trips)
Barred Owl, White Pelicans, Snail Kite, Painted Bunting and Bobcats have been seen at this restored preserve.
Natural wetland and berm trails around retention ponds.
Visitor Center has facilities but no food. Bring lunch if you want to spend the afternoon here.
For info Contact Christine Rowland president@pascoaudubon.com

Hidden Wonders Nature Walk
2024-01-20 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.” We will investigate some interesting plants and animals that call Brooker Creek Preserve home. Winter reveals new natural wonders to enjoy, join us! Registration is required.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Rye Preserve Tour
2024-01-20 09:00 - 11:00 | Rye Preserve, 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL, 34219, United States
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 <<<
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.

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 <<<
Presented by Lara Milligan, Pinellas County Natural Resources Agent for UF/IFAS Extension.
Additional Notes: This program will be held in our auditorium. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the preserve entrance (Keystone Rd.) to the parking lot, and there is a 2-5 minute walk from the parking lot to the auditorium.

Adult Night Hike
2024-01-20 18:00 - 19:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Adults enjoy a night hike out into the preserve after hours and in the dark!
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Night Hike in the Preserve
2024-01-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 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.
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.
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.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Astronomy Night
2024-01-20 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Explore the night sky with volunteers from the St. Petersburg Astronomy Club!
Join the astronomy club members to search for Jupiter and Orion Nebula, Saturn and winter constellations with high powered telescopes.

Cost: FREE with admission
All ages welcome.

Basic Irrigation Operations & Maintenance
2024-01-23 14:00 - 16:00 | Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217, United States
Learn about the basic operations and maintenance of your in-ground irrigation system.
This class will satisfy the irrigation educational class requirement for the Manatee County Outdoor Water Rebate Program. For further information on the Outdoor Water Rebate Program, contact: Manatee County Utility Department – Tina (941) 792-8811 X 5327 or tina.moutoux@mymanatee.org
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
