Weedon Walkabout
2023-01-07 09:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
Join us for a guided tour of the trails and boardwalks of the Weedon Island Preserve.

Explore the mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Weedon Island Preserve on a guided walk of the Tower Boardwalk. This tour will include a visit to the Preserve’s 45 ft. tall Observation Tower for a 360 degree view of the area. Learn about the coastal environment, native wildlife, and early history of Weedon Island. Total walk length will be just under 1 mile.
Attendees will meet inside the Cultural and Natural History Center for a short introduction before departing for the trails. This tour is recommended for adults and youth ages 7 and up.
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

DeSoto/Riverview Pointe Preserve Tour
2022-11-12 09:00 - 11:00 | Riverview Pointe Preserve, Bradenton, FL, United States
Join the Manatee County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers on an educational stroll.

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

Science Sprouts
2022-06-04 09:00 - 10:00 | Bishop Museum of Science ﻿and Nature, 201 10th St. West, Bradenton, FL, 34205, United States
Budding scientists ages 2-5 can bring their favorite grown-up to explore and discover a variety of science and nature topics in the Mosaic Backyard Universe. The program sparks kids’ natural curiosity using imaginative play, crafts, stories, songs and more! Please note: This program does not include Museum admission.

On Saturday, June 4, explore “In the Deep Ocean”
On Saturday, June 11, explore “Swirly Whirly Snails”
On Saturday, June 18, explore “Manatee Mischief”
On Saturday, June 25, explore “Busy Buzzin’ Bees”
When/Where: 9-10am every Saturday in the Mosaic Backyard Universe
Cost: $12 per child for members of the Discovery Society; $15 per child for all others. (Includes one adult per child.)
Advance reservations required. Attendance limited to 12 children.

Register now
The Bishop follows the CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels guidelines. Please visit www.CDC.gov to see the current Manatee County Community Level before visiting. Masks must be worn indoors when Community Levels are high.

Wild Wings Bird Hike
2020-01-11 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, United States
Wild Wings –
Birds of Brooker Hike
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.
All ages are welcome. Children under the ages of 16 must be accompanied by an adult and those younger than 6 may find this hike challenging.
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.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-wings-birds-of-brooker-hike-tickets-53439990450?mc_cid=a4dbfdde6b&mc_eid=1cbba2e07b

HEADS UP FOR HAWKS HIKE
2023-01-13 10:30 - 12:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
An introduction to the diurnal (daytime) birds of prey that soar, swoop, and glide through Florida’s skies. Learn about how expert watchers identify raptors by their shapes and flight behavior. As we discuss these fascinating predators, we will also share a few success stories in the ongoing effort to conserve birds of prey.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Botany Walk
2023-01-13 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

Oyster Reef Ball Construction
2023-01-11 09:00 - 12:00 | Tampa Bay Watch Marine & Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, FL, 33715, United States
Join us at the Tampa Bay Watch Marine Education Center, 3000 Pinellas Bayway South in Tierra Verde to help build oyster reef balls!
This task involves pouring marine-friendly concrete into a fiberglass mold to create oyster reef balls, then taking apart the molds when dry. The reef balls will be installed at a future date to stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion while creating habitat similar to natural oyster communities found along shoreline areas throughout Tampa Bay.
Click here to visit our webpage to learn more about reef balls.
Click here to register for this project date.

The Power of Fungi
2023-01-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill – 31st Street S, 3130 31st Street S, St. Petersburg, FL, United States

Book Time at Brooker
2022-12-22 10:30 - 11:00 | 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

Air-Sitters: The Truth About Epiphytic Plants
2023-01-11 14:00 - 15:00 | Online Event
So: Spanish moss does not kill tress and neither does mistletoe… Any questions? Join us to explore the adaptations and ecological roles of the “Air Plants.” We’ll examine how they live, reproduce, and contribute to a healthy ecosystem, AND why they do not belong stuffed in a seashell in your windowless guest bathroom.
Presented by James Stevenson, Education and Outreach Supervisor
Recommended for adults and youth over 12.
>>> WEBINAR REGISTRATION

Reptile Wednesdays with Dennis!
2022-08-03 10:00 - 16:00 | 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

Rising to the challenge of coral reef restoration
2023-01-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Mote Marine & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL, 34236, United States
Dr. Jason Spadaro joined Mote in December 2021 as a Postdoctoral Scientist to integrate an ecosystem approach into Mote’s premier science-based Coral Reef Restoration Program. His research focuses on manipulating ecological processes to support the restoration and recovery of Florida’s Coral Reef and other coral reef ecosystems.
In this lecture, on Jan. 9, Spadaro will explain how coral reefs are in trouble, and how Mote Marine Laboratory scientists are pioneers in coral reef restoration. Mote’s team actively propagates and restores corals to degraded reef structures, while actively selecting the most resilient and robust corals with the goal of creating a strong and resilient community of restored corals.
Recently, Mote has also invested in the restoration of critical ecosystem functions, such as grazing by herbivores such as Caribbean king crabs. Led by Spadaro, Mote scientists are engaged in the aquaculture of this large crab species that consumes many of the algae that otherwise would compete with corals for space on the reef. Tying all of these intricate and complex components together is nothing short of challenging. However, Spadaro, his team, and everyone at Mote are more than up to the challenge with cutting-edge science guiding the way.
Tickets are on sale now at mote.org/lecture.

Rad Reptiles
2023-01-08 10:00 - 11:30 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Come learn about incredible reptiles from around the world! Each class includes hands on activities, a guided hike on the trails, and live animal encounters. Participants will enjoy a safe learning environment that promotes knowledge of the local environment and a love of nature
Ages 6 & up
>>> REGISTER HERE

Sunday Bird Hike
2023-01-08 08:00 - 09:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Come out for this “early morning” walk in the woods with Alexa to seek out the resident and visiting birds of Brooker. Beginners and all levels of birders welcome. Meet in the parking lot at 8:00 a.m.
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

CONSTELLATIONS AND THE NIGHT SKY
2023-01-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Classroom, 1101 COUNTRY CLUB WY S, St. Petersburg, FL, 33705, United States
Ever wonder what Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is like after hours?
Join us for a guided night hike offered twice a month. Learn about the preserve and the wildlife that call it home. Take a guided hike with a preserve ranger as you search for wildlife that only come out at night.

Cost: $3/adults & $1.50/children
All ages welcome!

Contact the preserve at 727-893-7326 to reserve your spot.

The Ways of Water Hike
2023-01-07 09:00 - 22:30 | Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL, 34688, United States
Water is an important feature at Brooker Creek Preserve .
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 fall walk through the woods.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Emerson Point Preserve Tour
2022-12-03 09:00 - 11:00 | Emerson Point Preserve, 5801 17th St W, Palmetto, FL, 34221, United States
Join the Manatee County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers on an educational stroll.
Casually stroll through the beautiful Emerson Point Preserve and learn about Florida’s native plants and inhabitants of a coastal environment.
Suitable for all ages.
Meet at the first parking area on the RIGHT at the Observation Tower (not at the classroom) at 9AM.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Clearwater Audubon Society Bird Walk
2022-10-01 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

Tot Time
2023-01-06 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.

Every first and third Friday of each month, 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, and crafts that connect them to our environment. Activities are intended for youth aged 3-5.
This program will take place inside the Cultural and Natural History Center unless otherwise specified. Youth must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program.
Proceeds will support the Friends of Weedon Island, a non-profit organization that work to promotes education and conservation of the Weedon Island Preserve.
>>> REGISTER HERE

Clearwater Audubon Society Meeting
2022-10-03 06:30 - 08:30 | Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater, FL, United States
The local chapter of the National Audubon Society conducts field trips to Florida’s natural areas, supports local environmental education efforts and sponsors environmental educators to Audubon training centers. Everyone is welcome. clearwateraudubonsociety.org
DETAILS HERE

Holiday Lights in the Gardens
2022-11-25 17:30 - 21:30 | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33778, United States
The Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation is proud to announce the dates and times for its 22nd annual winter event.
Admission is a suggested donation of $10.00 per person, over the age of 13. Credit cards and cash are accepted at our entrance gates, no pre-registration necessary.

The Gardens will sparkle with 1 million, twinkling, LED lights in a multitude of colors. Vibrant laser lights and lighted figures round out our display to wow guests of all ages. Our friends, The Train Guys, will be back again for the opening weekend of the event. Their model trains will surround our 18 foot evergreen tree, bedecked in nature-inspired splendor, in the heart of the Wedding Garden.
There are four entrances to Holiday Lights and all of them have names: Snowflake – On the Bridge coming in from the Ulmerton Road Entrance. Poinsettia – On the walkway from the Walsingham Road entrance. Blue Heron – On the North Bridge entrance from the back of the Visitor Center. Green Turtle – On the east side of the gardens, off the Walsingham Road cul-de-sac. When you arrive at the event, you will receive a color-coded sticker, to remind you which entrance you came in at. View our Holiday Lights Map 2021 for more details on entrances, entertainment locations and more!
To add to the sights and sounds, we have arranged a variety of local volunteer talent to perform nightly. View our weekly Playbill, listing nightly performers. For inquiries on how to perform at the event, please email us at: flbgfoundation@gmail.com.
St. Pete Concessions is here again with great food, desserts, and non-alcoholic beverages for sale, so come hungry!
We will no longer be hosting Santa at the event, but be sure to check out Santa Saturdays at our neighboring Heritage Village. We welcome the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscaping Association and Pinellas County Farm Bureau, who will be sponsoring our Children’s Candy Cane Area, providing free kids crafts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Creative Pinellas hosts their Arts Annual exhibit from November 11th through December 19th. The public is welcome to visit the Gallery, located off our Walsingham Entrance. Admission is free, Wednesdays through Sundays, noon to 5 pm.
The Gardens are handicapped-accessible. Parking, including handicapped parking, is available at our Green Turtle Entrance, at 12211 Walsingham Road. Most walkways are ADA Compliant: allowing access for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers. However, we do not have wheelchairs or scooters available.
Additional parking will be available at our Snowflake, Poinsettia and Blue Heron Entrances. Parking is limited, so come early or choose to visit us on the weeknights. Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to contact our office in advance, so we can help make your experience a memorable one: 727-582-2117 and review our Group & Bus Instructions.
Leashed pets are welcome at any time, but again we encourage you to attend on weeknights.
