Tot Time
2024-04-19 10:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | 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.

The Gift of Trees
2024-04-19 10:30 - 12:00 | ZOOM, 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.
>>> 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.

Wild Florida 101- Marvelous Mushrooms
2024-04-19 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
This series explores the wonderful and wild animals that call Florida home.
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Bio-Blitz
2024-04-20 09:00 - 10:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Be a citizen scientist!

Learn how to be a community scientist, gathering data on the flora and fauna of the Preserve. 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. This activity is a part of our Earth Day Birthday Celebration.
Meet in front of the auditorium at 9am! Space is limited. Please be courteous and CANCEL your ticket if you can no longer attend.
>>> RESERVE A SPOT <<<

Rye Preserve Tour
2024-04-20 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.

Naturalist Guided Tour
2024-04-20 09:00 - 11:00, 2024-04-27 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 Weedon Island 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.
>>> 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!

Let's Go Birding!
2024-04-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Spend some time on the trails and learn about birds and bird watching! This special event is hosted in partnership with the Friends of Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. Guests will encounter various stations along the trail and get to participate in fun, interactive, and educational activities.

Free with the price of admission to the park.
Sign up now to volunteer with us.

Birds, Native Plants & Lunch
2024-04-20 09:00 - 13:00 | FL
We will visit two small gems in Largo (descriptions below), have lunch at PJ’s Oyster Bar (outside dining). Wilcox Nursery, which carries many native plants, is nearby for anyone shopping to improve their native gardens.

The morning starts at the John R. Bonner Nature Trail at 8:00 a.m. (14444 143rd St N, Largo, FL 33774). From the Florida Birding Trail: John R. Bonner Nature Trail is a “small spot of green in urban Pinellas County, this city park’s cool, shady hammock attracts migrating songbirds in spring and fall. Walk the woodland trails (paved and crushed shell) on either side of the park’s entrance road looking for species such as Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Red-eyed Vireo, Hooded Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager and Wood Thrush. Wading birds like Great Egret forage at the pond near the parking area. A 460-foot boardwalk leads out to a covered platform set among the mangroves on the Intracoastal Waterway; watch here for gulls, terns, shorebirds, waterfowl and wading birds like Reddish Egret, Green Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron and Roseate Spoonbill. Osprey, Brown Pelican and Double-crested Cormorant are common all year. Watch for Northern Rough-winged Swallow and Cooper’s Hawk in spring and Gray Kingbird in fall.”

“Also known as the “Turtle Park” for its abundant aquatic turtle population, the George C McGough Nature Park is a 26-acre park located along the Intracoastal Waterway. The Nature Center houses live animal exhibits, including 22 rescued, non-releasable birds (owls, hawks & an eagle), and offers several environmental education programs. Our nature trails, including a comfortable rubberized walking trail, are a great way to see the natural beauty of Florida. Also included are outside shelters and a playground with a kid’s zipline. No dogs, including service dogs, are allowed in the park because of the captive birds on the property.”

Contact trip leader Mic McCarty at mic.mccarty@tampaaudubon.org to register and receive updates.

Important! Pre-registration is required, and participation is limited. 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.

Earth Day Birthday!
2024-04-20 09:00 - 14:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
A Springtime Conservation Celebration!
Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center and the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve Present: Earth Day Birthday: A Springtime Conservation Celebration!
Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center and the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve are pleased to announce a special celebration of the Environmental Education Center’s 20th birthday and the Friends’ 30th year providing support for the Preserve.
Join staff, volunteers, and your fellow community members to explore the Education Center, hands-on activities, and the wonders of Our Wildest Place!
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Ongoing Activities:

Touch-a-Truck: Meet staff from the Florida Forest Service and some of the equipment they use when fighting (or starting!) fires in natural areas.
*Build a Pollinator House: Some of our smallest wildlife needs your help! Learn about native bees, how important they are and how you can help provide habitat. *while supplies last
Green Careers in Pinellas: Meet staff from several Pinellas County Government departments and non-profit organizations who will share their work and experiences with you.
Free Trees: Pinellas County’s Urban Forestry will have a variety of trees available to take home for planting and preservation of our urban forest.
Injured Wildlife: Meet ambassador animals from Owl’s Nest Wildlife Sanctuary and learn the dos and don’ts of wildlife rescue from local experts.
Crafts and Quests: Visit the Exhibit Hall for crafts and pick up a plant quest to enhance your hiking experience.

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Scheduled Activities: *Registration required, space is limited. Click on an activity to register.

Bio-Blitz at 9am: Learn how to be a citizen scientist, gathering data on the flora and fauna of the Preserve!
Guided Hikes at 9am, 10am, and 11:30am: Explore “Our Wildest Place” on a nature hike. There are four separate hike options to choose from!
Native Bee Hunt at 10am: Join UF field researcher Clint Gibson on a search for rare and elusive native bees!
Bird Nest Box Workshop at 10:30am: Learn how to build your very own nest box for a Great Crested Flycatcher!
Dish Gardens at 1pm: Put together a pollinator buffet using small native plants to create a pollinator garden perfect for a small space! Sponsored by the Florida Wildflower Foundation.
Architecture Tour at 1pm: Learn about our buildings with the architect of the project!

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Happy Birthday to us at 2pm! Stay for cupcakes and celebrate with the County officials who work to keep the Preserve Wild!
Parking is first-come-first-served all day in the main parking lot. No pets are allowed on Pinellas County Preserves. Pedestrians only on boardwalks and trails.

Campfire Cooking
2024-04-20 10:00 - 11:30 | BHPS Osprey’s Roost, 2900 31ST ST S Gate 2, St. Petersburg, FL, 33712, United States
Join a ranger in prepping and preparing delicious meals in the great outdoors. Learn techniques and recipes that can be easily replicated on your next outdoor adventure.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Nest Box Building Workshop
2024-04-20 10:30 - 12:00 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join us for an in-person workshop to “make and take” a nest box for your yard!
Want to help our local cavity nesters?
Learn how to build your very own nest box for an Eastern Bluebird!
In this workshop you will learn about proper nest box placement and mounting, additional information specific to the nesting habits of Eastern Bluebirds, and other fun facts about this species!
We will be building a nest box for an Eastern Bluebird, which is a year-round resident in Pinellas County.
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. Follow signs to the auditorium.
Refunds will not be granted if you cannot install the nest box in your desired location.
If you are attending with friends or family and would like to team up and build one nest box between the group, please only purchase ONE ticket.
Interested in learning about how you can help our local cavity nesters before the workshop? Check out this webinar.

Sharks Unknown: Beyond Jaws
2024-04-20 16:00 - 18:00 | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Learn all about the sharks in Tampa Bay with amazing shark scientists!

Come explore the wonderful world of sharks with M.I.S.S (Minorities in Shark Sciences) to learn about the wide diversity of sharks and the scientists who study them. You’ll also learn how you can get involved in protecting and studying these amazing creatures.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<
This program is sponsored by 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!

Adult Night Hike
2024-04-20 19:30 - 21:00 | 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!
Experience the tranquil sounds of nature on our monthly adult-only night hike, where the rustling of leaves and calls of nocturnal animals set the perfect backdrop. As you walk, you might even catch a glimpse of a wild creature in its natural habitat, see the St. Pete skyline, and make a few memories!
Ages 18 yrs +
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Native Plant Garden Maintenance
2024-04-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Lettuce Lake Conservation Park, 6920 East Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33637, United States
This program is led by the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society’s Joel Jackson and Tina Patterson and supported by Tampa Audubon.

Garden work includes planting, weeding and trimming, as needed.
There is a $2 admission to the park which Suncoast can cover if you request ahead of time. Park in the lot by the Visitor Center and the garden is behind the building.
Bring water, gloves and personal tools.
Garden Wish List: donations accepted:
swamp milkweed, tropical sage, goldenrod, wild petunia, silkgrass or other small(er) flowering plants.
Contact Tina Patterson for more information and to let her know that you will be coming. mablepatterson@hotmail.com or call or text 305-298-6381 and leave a name and message.

2024 Florida's Birding & Photo Fest
2024-04-24 - 2024-04-28 | Celebration Hall at St. Anastasia, 5205 A1A S, St. Augustine Beach, FL, United States
Nearly 100 exciting photography & birding events including field workshops and classroom seminars.

The 2024 Birding & Photo Fest will feature the return of festival favorites, world-class photographers along with new professionals and instructors who will offer technical training opportunities and more birding in-field programs than ever before.
As always, festival participants will benefit from insights and instruction from a collection of upper echelon international nature and wildlife photographers — a group that continues to solidify Florida’s Birding & Photo Fest as one of the premier events in North America. And of course the community of St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and all of Florida’s Historic Coast is welcoming bird lovers and photography aficionados with the friendly hospitality you’ve come to expect.
The 2024 event will be held April 24-28, 2024 at Celebration Hall, St. Anastasia Located at 5205 A1A S., St. Augustine Beach, FL
For more information go to https://www.floridasbirdingandphotofest.com
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2024-04-24 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-05-01 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 <<<

Book Time at Brooker
2024-04-25 10:30 - 11:30, 2024-05-02 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

Dragonfly Discovery Walk
2024-04-26 10:00 - 11:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Join local dragonfly expert Paul Trunk as we explore the Preserve looking for dragonflies.
Join local dragonfly expert Paul Trunk as we explore some of the habitats at Brooker Creek looking for dragonflies. Brooker Creek Preserve is an excellent area that is home to approximately 20+ species of odonates.
We will learn about the natural history of dragonflies and their importance to a healthy ecosystem.
Bring your binoculars and also a camera if you enjoy taking pictures. Registration is required.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Gardening Leadership Training
2024-04-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Office, 1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Learn the skills you need to be an effective leader & garden advocate!

This is a series of three classes! Register for however many you would like to take, however, those who complete all three classes will receive Garden Leadership Certification. All classes are free and in person at the Extension Office (1303 17th St W, Palmetto, FL) in the Aalberg meeting room.
April 12 – Leadership Orientation and Team Building
April 19 – Conflict Resolution and Decision Making
April 26 – Grant Writing and Garden Administration
The Garden Leadership training series is a collection of classes and activities designed to educate individuals seeking leadership positions in public gardens. The classes are open to everyone, but will be tailored toward community gardens, school gardens, and other public gardens. Topics include team building, conflict management, grant writing, and more! For more information, please contact, Mack Lessig, at (941) 722-4524 ext.1821 or mlessig@ufl.edu
>>> 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 Mack Lessig, mlessig@ufl.edu, (941) 722-4524 x 1821 at least 1 week in advance. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Field Trip @ Fort De Soto Park
2024-04-27 08:00 - 10:00 | Fort DeSoto Park, 8250 Desoto Memorial Highway, Bradenton, FL, 34209, United States
Join us at Fort De Soto Park as spring migration peaks for our area!
Field trip lead: Ron Smith
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (natural paths, loose sand, potential for feet to get wet)

Arbor Day Celebration & Tree Giveaway
2024-04-27 08:00 - 13:00 | Cearwater Public Works Complex, 1650 No. Arcturas Avenue, Clearwater, FL, 33765, United States
The city of Clearwater is celebrating its 42nd year as Tree City USA with our annual Arbor Day Celebration and Tree Giveaway.
The event will be held Saturday, April 27, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Public Works Complex, 1650 N. Arcturas Ave. in Clearwater. Please access the site via Hercules Avenue and Sherwood Street.
Clearwater residents must get in line with their vehicles; no walk-ups will be allowed. Bring proof that you are a City of Clearwater resident, such as a utility bill and your driver’s license. If proof of residency is not provided, a ticket to receive your free trees will not be issued. Trees are distributed on a first-come first-serve basis, while supplies last. Species this year include Live Oak, Red Maple, Crape Myrtle’s, Walters Viburnum, Bottlebrush, Simpson Stopper, Silver Buttonwood, Green Buttonwood and many more.
Residents are not to plant trees in the right of way (along the curb). The city wishes that all these trees are planted on private property and in an open space.
Call (727) 562-4950 with questions.

Skip into Spring Hike
2024-04-27 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
From flowers and plants blooming, to animals enjoying the spring weather, the season is full of fascinating wildlife to explore in our Florida ecosystem. All ages welcome with a registered adult. Please select the correct number of participants or seats needed at the time of enrollment.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

EARTH DAY AT MOCCASIN LAKE
2024-04-27 10:00 - 15:00 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
Celebrate Earth Day with Moccasin Lake Nature Park!
There will be music, presentations, children’s crafts, reptiles and birds of prey, and food trucks!
Free event.

RAPTORS AND REPTILES
2024-04-28 14:00 - 15:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Learn about the incredible world of reptiles and raptors that call Boyd Hill Nature Preserve home. Meet our resident reptiles and raptors up close, learn about their natural habitat, behaviors, and conservation efforts.

Story Time in the Majeed Discovery Garden
2024-05-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
Listen to a couple of fun stories while playing with musical instruments and bubbles in our Majeed Discovery Garden. Story Time is recommended for kids 5 and under.
Contact our Children’s Garden Educator, Jessie Wingar, at jessieflbgfoundation@gmail.com if you have any questions.
>>> REGISTER HERE <<<

Science Rocks!
2024-05-02 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
