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Ongoing events
Through October, children are invited to wear their Halloween costumes to Mote Aquarium to receive a treat bag and free admission with a paying adult. The special free admission offer is valid for children under 12. Aquarium visitors might be lucky enough to spot Mote mascot Gilly the Shark swimming around the aquarium in costume on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information: 941-388-4441 or www.mote.org
Oct. 21, 8am, Advanced Shore Birds at Ft. DeSoto program with St. Petersburg Audubon Society. Meet at the north end of North Beach Parking lot and bring scopes/binoculars and field guides to review finer points. For information, call 727-865-2239.
Oct. 25, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek: Stellaluna by Janell Cannon, the story of a young bat that finds herself in a bird's nest and is forced to behave like a bird. She eventually shows her bird siblings about life as a bat, which prompts them to investigate the differences between birds and bats. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Oct. 26, 10:00am-Noon, The Great Naturalists Reading Series - Travels of William Bartram, cosponsored by East Lake Community Library and the Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center. With a moving and wonderful narrative, William Bartram's book, Travels of William Bartram, is a classic work of American anthropology, geography and natural history. As the accomplished naturalist and talented artist traveled, he wrote exact and vivid descriptions of flora and fauna in their natural habitats, and accurately recorded the activities of Native American Indians he encountered. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Oct 26-28, Florida Ornithological Society Fall Meeting in Sebring. Field trips scheduled for Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday morning with scientific presentations on Saturday afternoon. For information, visit www.fosbirds.org .
Oct. 27, 11am-5pm, Hillsborough River State Park. "A River Runs Through It" offers fun, nature-based activities to celebrate Hillsborough River Watershed Awareness Week. Presentations, workshops, and educational displays will highlight the Hillsborough River's recreational opportunities along with environmental exhibits, Florida-friendly landscaping, workshops, music and more. For information, call 813) 453-4750 or visit www.hrgtf.org .
Oct. 27, 9am-2:30pm, Tampa Bay Estuary Program's “Estuary Academy, Weedon Island Preserve. Following a morning keynote address, participants can choose from among various workshops that allow them to collect and learn about critters found in the bay's seagrass beds; take a guided hike through mangrove forests; make gifts using items found in nature; and even examine and sample “edible” insects. Participation is preregistration is required. Call 727-893-2765 or email nanette@tbep.org .
Oct. 27, Oceanic Evening, Mote's annual black-tie gala and its only major fundraising effort for the year. Join us in “Celebrating Our Oceans.” For information, call 941-388-4441, ext. 305 or e-mail Vicki@mote.org .
Oct. 27, 5:30-8pm, Sunset/Moonlight kayak trip on Little Sarasota Bay with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Oct. 27, 9:30-11:30am, Bayshore Critter Search at Blackburn Point, Little Sarasota Bay with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-366-9479.
Oct. 27, 8:30am-3:30pm, Elementary Everglades Teacher's Workshop at The Florida Aquarium. Learning about the Everglades can be a powerful experience for students and adults. Discover hands-on science and language arts activities to bring the ecological concepts of the Everglades to fourth and fifth grade classrooms. Receive a $50 stipend, along with the “Journey of Wayne Drop” curriculum kit, which follows the character of Wayne Drop as he travels from the Kissimmee River and Lake Okeechobee through the Everglades to the Florida Straits. Registration required, visit www.flaquarium.org or call 813-273-4015.
Oct. 27, 9am-2pm, unveiling of Christopher Still's newest work at the Sandpearl Resort on Clearwater Beach. 500 Mandalay Ave. For information, visit www.christopherstill.com
Oct. 27, 8:30-Noon, Tour Joe's Creek Preservation Area with St. Petersburg Audubon Society. Meet at the end of 62nd Ave. N (off Park Street) where it dead-ends. Optional: pack a lunch to eat at Bay Pines Veterans Park and do some birding afterwards. For reservations, call 727-321-3995.
Oct. 28, 11am-3pm, Open Classroom – Discovering Nature with Your Child with Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center Staff. Who lives in that skin?? What is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore?? Whose tracks are those?? Stop by our classroom to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities that will answer these questions and many more. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Oct. 28, 4:30-6pm, Fall Wine & Cheese Sunset Cruise with St. Petersburg Audubon Society aboard the catamaran, Albion. Alva. Boat tour of the intracoastal waterways, ending with the sunset over Shell Key. Meet at 4:15pm at Merry Pier, St. Pete Beach. For reservations, call 727-374-7039.
Oct. 30, 8:30-11:30am, Myakka River State Park kayak trip with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Oct. 31, 9-11am, Morning Beach Walk from Turtle Beach to Palmer Point with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Oct. 31, 7-8:30pm, Creepy Critters and “Boo Time” at Brooker Creek Preserve. Bring the whole family to learn about Halloween favorites like owls, spiders and bats, then join us for a short evening hike along the boardwalk to look and listen for common creatures of the night. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 1, 9am-noon, Kayak at South Lido Park, Bird Key with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 1 and 2, Hillsborough Community College 34th Annual Conference on Ecosystems Restoration and Creation. For additional information, visit www.hccfl.edu/depts/detp/ecoconf.html .
Nov. 2, 9am-noon, guided canoe trip at Weedon Island Preserve. Explore the south canoe trail of Weedon Island Preserve with an expert guide. Get a rare look at some of the aquatic ecosystems that make west-central Florida so special. If you have never explored the preserve from the water, this is an experience you won't want to miss. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 2, 6:30-8:30p.m, Weedon Nightlife Hike at Weedon Island Preserve. Enter the world of bats, owls, moths and raccoons during this guided night hike. Get a rare opportunity to explore the nightlife of Weedon Island Preserve. This program is best for adults and children ages 12 and up. Free. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 2, 1–3pm, Home School Educator's Workshop – Introduction to Brooker Creek Preserve. You can do more than study nature at the Brooker Creek Preserve. The Environmental Education Center provides opportunities for home school families to teach a wide variety of subjects. Join us for this series of workshops designed to help home schoolers get the most out of this resource right in their backyards. Families are welcome and a quiet game and activity corner will be provided for children while parents attend the workshop. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 3, 14th Annual Fish Head Ball: A Fishy Fiesta. Proceeds support The Pier Aquarium's educational programs. Visit www.flaquarium.org .
Nov. 3, 1-2pm, The Magic of Migration at Brooker Creek Preserve. Come learn about the wonders of migration and one of the most amazing creatures, the monarch butterfly. We will discuss the monarch's life cycle, special senses, and the research being done to protect butterflies. After the presentation we will take a walk to look for monarchs. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 3, 9-11am, guided hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Take a walk through time each Saturday morning on a guided hike along the education center trail to see how land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 3, 8am-1pm, Opening Day at Pinellas County's Market in the Park at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Get in on the action at a new Market in the Park sponsored by Pinellas County Extension. Each Saturday, the market offers healthy, farm-fresh local produce, delicious gourmet foods, beautiful plants and more in a beautiful natural setting. Pinellas County Extension experts will hold free educational seminars on gardening, nutrition and cooking during market hours. Market in the Park continues every Saturday through April 26. For more information, call 727-582-2528.
Nov. 3, 10-11am, Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk. Learn more about the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. Nature walks wander through one of the park's six different natural communities including the Arrowhead Trail, Mangrove Tour, Campground Tour, Beach Tour, Soldier's Hole or Bird Watch. Registration required, call 727-582-2267.
Nov. 3, 9-11am, Saturday guided hike at Weedon Island Preserve. Hike through the coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems of the preserve and learn about the coastal environment and its early residents. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 3, 9am-noon, guided canoe trip at Weedon Island Preserve. Explore the south canoe trail of Weedon Island Preserve with an expert to guide you. Get a rare look at some of the aquatic ecosystems that make west-central Florida so special. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 3, 8am-noon, Visions of Florida – nature photographic workshop at Weedon Island Preserve. Join professional nature photographer Jason Hahn as he shares his many tips to better nature photos. This classroom and field session is tailored to all skill levels. Learn the correct way to capture a perfect photographic opportunity in real shooting situations. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 3, 1-2pm, Visions of Florida – exhibit opening reception at Weedon Island Preserve with nature photographer Jason Hahn. This exhibit is a detailed study of Florida ecosystems from the Everglades to Myakka River. Fine art prints, note cards and calendars from Hahn's collection will be available. This exhibit is open Nov. 3 through Dec. 3. For information, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 3, 1-2pm, The Magic of Migration Program at Brooker Creek Preserve. Come learn about the wonders of migration and one of the most amazing creatures, the monarch butterfly. Explore the monarch's life cycle, special senses and unanswered questions about migration. Take a walk to look for monarchs after the presentation. Best for families with children age 6 and up. Registration required by calling 727-453-6800.
Nov. 4, Full-day kayak trip on the Myakka River with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 4, 1-4pm, Meet the Artist – John Moran's Florida: One State, Many Worlds with John Moran of Gainesville. Moran's work celebrates the magic of our state's unique landscape from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean with an emphasis on Florida waters: the rivers, lakes, coasts, swamps and springs and the creatures that inhabit them. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 4, 8-10am, photography hike at Weedon Island Preserve. Search for that perfect shot with Weedon Island Preserve Center staff as they highlight the preserve's seasonal features and wildlife behaviors. Photographers of all levels are welcome. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 4, 10-11am, Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk. Come out and enjoy the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a free one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. Nature walks wander through one of the park's six different natural communities including the Arrowhead Trail, Mangrove Tour, Campground Tour, Beach Tour, Soldier's Hole or Bird Watch. Registration required, call 727-582-2267.
Nov. 5, 10am, Fish Tales at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. Get “lured” into the past with old-time fishing guides Joe Dvoracsek, Robert Buswell and Lew Herzog as they share accounts of adventures on the open waters off the Pinellas coast during the 1950s and 1960s. Bill Miller, host of Bright House Networks popular “Hooked on Fishing” television program, will serve as moderator. Free. For information, call 727-582-2123.
Nov. 6, 8:30am-Noon, Ecosystem Restoration Workday in Osprey on Little Sarasota Bay with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 7, 9am-Noon, kayak trip on the Myakka River from Snook Haven with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 7, 7-9pm, onboard weather forecasting presented by The St. Petersburg Sail & Power Squadron at St. Petersburg Sailing Center. Contact www.boating-stpete.org or 727-821-7333.
Nov. 7, 7pm, membership meeting of the Pinellas Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society with presentation on “Integrated Pest Management” What is it and how do you do it? Which bugs are good? Which ones are bad? How can you control the "bad" ones and protect the environment? For information, visit www.pinellasnativeplants.org or call 727-544-7341.
Nov. 7, 7-8:30pm, family night hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Join us to experience the preserve after dark as we look and listen for the creatures of the night. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must and a flashlight is optional. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 8, 9-noon, Agency on Bay Management, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. For information, call 727-570-5151, ext. 32 or visit www.tbrpc.org .
Nov. 8, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek. Marsh Morning by Marianne Berks is a rhyming story that makes the morning marsh come to life. This program includes a craft, game or hands-on activity related to the story. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 8, 10:30-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon Island Preserve. The Turtle Saver by Laurie Parker begins with a turtle that is helped across a street by a passing motorist. The rhyming text and paper collage artwork beautifully illustrate the connectedness of everything around us. This program includes a hands-on craft and other games and activities. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 8, 4:30-6pm, The Cost of Green, a community forum on residential fertilizer use at Weedon Island Preserve. Join Tampa Bay Estuary Program's Community Advisory Committee, bay area chapters of the League of Women Voter's and Weedon Island Preserve in this free public forum on residential fertilizer use moderated by Bobbie O'Brien of WUSF-FM, National Public Radio. Hear varying perspectives on issues surrounding residential fertilizer use, understand pending state rulemaking and explore the role of industry, government and individuals in managing fertilizer use. Registration required, call 727-893-2765 or email nanette@tbep.org .
Nov. 10, Urban Charette, second in a three-part series on designing a “Livable Tampa Bay.” This event focuses on public areas, waterways and housing. Location will be USF Alumni Center. Registration required, email UCforumRSVP@gmail.com . The third event, on density, transit planning and neighborhood and regional development, will be held on Jan. 12.
Nov. 10, 8am, Tour Boyd Hill Nature Park with St. Petersburg Audubon Society for late migrant birding through oak hammocks and pine flatlands. For information, call 727-864-2683
Nov. 10, 5:30pm, night hike at Boyd Hill Nature Park with the Pinellas Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society. Discover the mysteries of the night as you search for the creatures that come to life after dark: moths, bats, owls, possums, armadillos and raccoons. Boyd Hill Nature Park features 216 acres of natural beauty with six trails that lead visitors through Florida's various ecosystems. Bring a flashlight. For more information visit www.pinellasnativeplants.org or call 727-544-7341.
Nov. 10, 9-11am, guided hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Take a walk through time each Saturday morning on a guided hike along the education center trail to see how land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 10, 8:30am-3:30pm, SEAS Secondary Educators' Workshop (6th – 12th grade) at The Florida Aquarium. Bring SEAS (Science Education at Sea) to your classroom! Learn marine sciences through hands-on activities aligned with Sunshine State Standards. Activities include experimenting with marine waters, fish observations and ocean floor models. Take home lesson plans, teaching resources, and a $50 stipend. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 10, 10am-noon, Decomposition: Life's Process of Renewal. Join Dr. Rinker, director of Pinellas County's Environmental Lands Division, as he shares new insights about the fascinating world of decomposition. Through the ages, poets and thinkers have wondered why you can bury a body in the ground but not poison the soil. Dirt, “the ecstatic skin of the Earth,” is where poisons are neutralized, chemicals are recycled, and life is renewed. Decomposition is a vital ecological process linked to the Earth itself. Dr. Rinker will introduce participants to Gaia Theory, decomposition chemistry and mites, springtails, worms and other “creepy-crawlies.” Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 10, 9-11am, Saturday guided hike at Weedon Island Preserve. Hike through the coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems to learn about the coastal environment and its early residents. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 10, 9-11am, guided hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Take a walk through time each Saturday morning on a guided hike along the education center trail to see how land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 10, 9-10:30am, guided nature walk at John Chesnut Park in Palm Harbor. Explore the outdoors and discover plants that grow naturally in wetlands and pine flatwoods at John Chesnut Park, learn how these plants have been used over the years and visit points of interest along Brooker Creek. Registration required, call 727-669-1951.
Nov. 10, 10-11am, Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk. Learn more about the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. Nature walks wander through one of the park's six different natural communities including the Arrowhead Trail, Mangrove Tour, Campground Tour, Beach Tour, Soldier's Hole or Bird Watch. Registration required, call 727-582-2267.
Nov. 10, 1-3pm, The Doodlebugs present “Shipwrecked Castaway” at Heritage Village in a series on living history for children aged 5 to 11 held the second Saturday of every month. This month, the Doodlebugs take a trip back in time and learn about life along the coast. The two-hour themed program includes living history activities, a targeted tour, story time and a craft. A take-home activity to share with the family is part of the fun too. Presented by Pinellas County Historical Society members; paid pre-registration required, call 727-582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org .
Nov. 11, 8:30-9:30am, Sunday stroll at Weedon Island Preserve. Take an early morning nature walk and look for birds as well as other wildlife while strolling through some of the preserve's habitats. This short outing with an expert guide is a great way to learn more about Florida's natural areas. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 11, 1-2:30pm, “Talking Turkey” family program at Brooker Creek Preserve. With Thanksgiving around the corner, explore the lives of Florida's wild turkeys and learn how turkeys communicate and raise their young. Registration required, call 727-453-6800.
Nov. 14, 9am-noon, Dialogues on Funding and Tools for Florida Land and Water Conservation, Crystal Springs Nature Preserve. A select group of regional and state leaders will discuss conservation priorities and tools for achieving more land and water conservation at locations around the state. A short overview of existing and proposed conservation projects in the Tampa Bay region will be followed by a structured dialogue about our regional conservation priorities and ways to secure those priorities. Similar discussions are taking place statewide as part of a series that will culminate in a summit in early 2008, where we will present a well-rounded and supportable list of recommendations gleaned from the diversity of interests represented by the events' participants. Reservations are required, email conservelandandwater@gmail.com .
Nov. 14, 7-8pm, Cypress Swamp Café presents “Make Your Holidays Green.” Did you know the holidays add 25 million tons of garbage to our landfills each year? Most wrapping papers, greeting cards and decorations cannot be recycled, and they add up quickly. Learn more environmentally friendly ideas for wrapping presents, crafting cards and creating decorations that are naturally beautiful in the Cypress Swamp Café series that explores ways to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Each evening will begin with a social time including refreshments and shade-grown coffee. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 15, 8:30-11:30am, Myakka River State Park kayak trip with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 15, 10am-2pm, A Tisket, A Tasket, Weave Yourself a Basket at Heritage Village. Learn the art of making baskets at Heritage Village. Join instructors Diane Frederick and Angela Jones, sisters and third-generation basket weavers, and create a basket while learning basic and intermediate skills. Pre-paid registration is required, call 727-582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org
Nov. 15, 7-8pm, Stains, Rains and Backhoes: Large Scale Excavations at Two Pre-Columbian village sites on the Tanam River in Northwest Puerto Rico at Weedon Island Preserve. Learn the results of a significant study by Southeastern Archaeological Research, Inc. that highlights how people lived differently in the same location throughout time. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 16, Tampa Bay Estuary Program Management & Policy Board Meetings, Management Board at 9am and Policy Board at 1pm at the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. For information, call 727-893-2746.
Nov. 16, 10am-noon, The Great Naturalists Reading Series cosponsored by East Lake Community Library and Brooker Creek Preserve. The Pulitzer Prize-winning Pilgrim at Tinker Creek will be featured. This book is a series of internal monologues and reflections spoken by an unnamed narrator about living near Tinker Creek in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 17, 9:30am-2:30pm, kayak trip at Little Manatee River State Park with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30am, Bayshore Critter Search at Bay Walk on City Island with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-366-9479.
Nov. 17, 10am-3pm, 4-H Open House and Apple Cook-off at Pinellas County Extension in Largo. Discover all the wonderful benefits and programs offered by 4-H at this annual open house. Interactive educational booths and hands-on activities for youngsters make learning about 4-H fun. For more information, call 727- 582-2528.
Nov. 17, 9-10:30am, guided nature walk at Philippe Park. Learn park history while exploring nature at one of Pinellas County's oldest historic parks. Closed-toe shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellant are recommended. Registration required, call 727-669-1947.
Nov. 17, 10-11am, Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk. Learn more about the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. Nature walks wander through one of the park's six different natural communities including the Arrowhead Trail, Mangrove Tour, Campground Tour, Beach Tour, Soldier's Hole or Bird Watch. Registration required, call 727-582-2267.
Nov. 17, 9-11am, Guided Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Take a walk through time on a guided hike along the Brooker Creek Education Trail. See how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. All ages welcome, but children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. Free. Registration required by calling 727-453-6800.
Nov. 17, 9-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at Weedon Island Preserve. Hike through the coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems of Weedon Island Preserve and learn about the coastal environment and its early residents. Free. Registration required by calling 727-453-6500.
Nov. 17, 10am-4pm, Blacksmithing: Making Tools at Heritage Village. Learn about the properties of steel used for making tools and using the right coal fire temperature during blacksmithing. Students will forge and heat-treat a wood chisel and a small hatchet or simple knife. Completion of the Basic Blacksmithing program or some experience helpful but not required. Pre-paid registration is require, call 727-582-2426 or email heritagevillage@pinellascounty.org
Nov. 17, 1-2:30pm, WSI – Wildlife Scene Investigators, a behind-the-scenes look at Brooker Creek Preserve. Scat, tracks and other “evidence” tell the story of the daily dramas of the food chain in action. Learn to piece together clues of wildlife activity and learn which wild creatures have been in the area and what they might have been up to. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 17, 10am-4pm, Connecting People and Place – Exhibit Gallery Opening at Weedon Island Preserve. Join in the opening celebration of the exciting new Exhibit Gallery – Connecting People and Place. The 6,000-square-foot exhibit hall is designed to recreate the essence of Weedon Island Preserve and the Tampa Bay Estuary in an interactive learning experience for the entire family. For information, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 17, 9-10:30am, Guided Nature Walk at Philippe Park. Learn park history while exploring nature at one of Pinellas County's oldest historic parks. Closed-toe shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellant are recommended. Registration required, call 727-669-1947.
Nov. 17, 10-11am, Ft. De Soto Park Nature Walk. Learn more about the beauty of Ft. De Soto Park with a one-hour nature walk great for the entire family. Nature walks wander through one of the park's six different natural communities including the Arrowhead Trail, Mangrove Tour, Campground Tour, Beach Tour, Soldier's Hole or Bird Watch. Registration required, call 727-582-2267.
Nov. 18, 9-11am, Young Naturalist Walk at Brooker Creek Preserve. A guided tour for children of all ages who are naturally fascinated by the smallest of outdoor wonders. Registration required, call 727-453-6800.
Nov. 18, 12:30-3:30pm, Weedon Naturalist – Uplands Ecosystems Class. Explore the great diversity of organisms that exist in a relatively small acreage of upland ecosystems at Weedon Island Preserve. This session includes topics such as upland habitat identification, native plant distribution, ecology of upland animals and changes to the preserve's landscape. Registration required, call 727-453-6500.
Nov. 20, 7pm, "Florida's Fascinating Birdlife" with Julie Brashears Wraithmell, Wildlife Policy Coordinator, Audubon of Florida, at the monthly meeting of St. Petersburg Audubon Society. The Science Center of Pinellas County. For information, 727-384-0027.
Nov. 20, 8:30am-noon, Clean Marina and Clean Boatyard Program at Weedon Island Preserve. Attend a free workshop hosted by Pinellas County, the State of Florida and the Clean Boating Partnership to become part of the Clean Marina Program. This workshop is designed for marina/boatyard management and staff, the public and any other interested parties. For information, call 727-464-4797 or email gquinn@pinellascounty.org .
Nov. 21, 9am-Noon, Kayak Little Sarasota Bay to Palmer Point Beach with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Nov. 21, 7-8:30pm, family night hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Join us to experience the preserve after dark as we look and listen for the creatures of the night. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must and a flashlight is optional. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 24, 1-2pm, Binocular Basics: In Search of the Best & Brightest. What do all those numbers mean? Can I customize my binoculars for my eyes? Learn how to get the best view from your binoculars and how to choose a new pair if it's time to upgrade. Participants will get a chance to try out several different types of binoculars out “in the field.” Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 24, 9-11am, Guided Hike at Brooker Creek Preserve. Take a walk through time on a guided hike along the Brooker Creek Education Trail. See how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. All ages welcome, but children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. Free. Registration required by calling 727-453-6800.
Nov. 24, 9-11am, Saturday Guided Hike at Weedon Island Preserve. Hike through the coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems of Weedon Island Preserve and learn about the coastal environment and its early residents. Free. Registration required by calling 727-453-6500.
Nov. 24 – Dec. 22, Noon-2pm each Saturday. Meet Santa Jaws at Mote Aquarium. Also know as Gilly the Shark, Mote Aquarium's mascot, Santa Jaws is all decked out for the holidays for a unique photo opportunity. Call 941-388-4441 or visit www.mote.org.
Nov. 25, 8-9:30am, The Great Weedon Bird Quest at Weedon Island Preserve. Join the quest to find Weedon Island Preserve birds. Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors, while helping the preserve staff compile an annual bird checklist. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 25, 9-11am, Sunday Morning Bird Walk at Brooker Creek Preserve. Take a morning bird walk along the Brooker Creek Preserve Center's trails. Learn to identify common birds of the preserve by sight, behavior and sound. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair. Free. Registration required by calling 727-453-6800.
Nov. 25 to Jan. 3, 6-10pm, Stroll through the beautiful Florida Botanical Gardens and enjoy Pinellas County's premier holiday light event with more than 425,000 lights. Start a family tradition of welcoming in the holiday season with style. For more information, call 727-582-2100.
Nov. 28, 7-8:30pm, Brooker Basics: Upland Habitats. A series of programs offered year-round, Brooker Basics gives participants a general overview of the variety of environments and organisms that can be found at the preserve. Each program consists of two components - an indoor presentation and a field session. This workshop focuses on the upland habitats including flatwoods, xeric oak hammocks and sandhills. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment.
Nov. 28, 7-9 p.m., Hillsborough County Extension, Common Insects and Diseases of Urban Trees in the Tampa Bay metropolitan region.
Nov. 29, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker Creek Preserve: Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert is a brightly illustrated tale that follows the journey of the leaf man as the wind picks him up and carries him across the land. This program includes a craft, game or other hands-on activity related to the story. Pre-registration required, call 727-453-6800 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Environment .
Nov. 29, 10:30-11:30am, Wee-time at Weedon Island Preserve: The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle follows a newly hatched caterpillar as he eats his way through a variety of fruits and vegetables. This program includes a hands-on craft and other games and activities. Registration required by calling 727-453-6500.
Nov. 30, 8:30-11:30am, Myakka River State Park kayak trip with the American Littoral Society. Call 941-966-7308.
Dec. 5, Conservation Celebration of the St. Petersburg Audubon Society and the Pinellas County Native Plant Society at the Florida Botanical Gardens. Visit www.stpetaudubon.org for details.
Dec. 13, Agency on Bay Management, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. For information, call 727-570-5151, ext. 32 or visit www.tbrpc.org.
Dec. 15, 108th Annual Christmas Bird Count. Participate in a day of full-contact birding. Call 727-572-0227 to volunteer.
Jan. 1, Rich Paul New Years Day Birding Open. Bird in the New Year at Ft. DeSoto Park and help support Audubon of Florida's Coastal Islands Sanctuary. Join a team or bird on your own. Trophies, door prizes. Start as early as you like that day; all checklists need to be turned in promptly at noon. Pack a lunch. Drinks and dessert provided. Registration required, call 727-398-4124.
January/February, shorebird classes sponsored by St. Petersburg Audubon Society. Learn to decipher those cryptic winter shorebirds. Registration required, call 727-577-0448 for dates and cost.
Jan. 6, 8am, tour Weedon Island Preserve with St. Petersburg Audubon Society. Geared for beginners and families; children welcome. Pack a lunch. For information, call 727-461-4762. Pack a lunch.
Jan 10, Agency on Bay Management, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. For information, call 727-570-5151, ext. 32 or visit www.tbrpc.org .
Jan. 12, 10-11:30am, Pruning Basics at Pinellas County Extension. January is a good time to prune many Florida shrubs and trees. Join Extension Agent Pam Brown for tips on the fine points of pruning to enhance the look and health of your landscape. Call 727-582-2673.
Jan. 15, 2-4pm, Tampa Bay Estuary Program Manatee Awareness Coalition meeting, Weedon Island Preserve Cultural & Natural History Center. Call 727-893-2765 or email nanette@tbep.org .
Jan. 15, 7pm, "The Role of Cattle Ranches in Florida Conservation And Environmental Sustainability" presented by Dr. P. Bohlen, director of research at MacArthur Agro-ecology Research Center at the monthly meeting of the St. Petersburg Audubon Society. The Science Center of Pinellas County, 7701 22nd Ave N, St. Petersburg. Call 727-384-0027.
Jan. 19, 7:30am, “Duck Hunt” with St. Petersburg Audubon Society. Visit various local water holes in search of wintering ducks. Meet at Sears, 94th Ave. N & 9th St., St. Petersburg to carpool. We will end the morning at the Tierra Verde ponds, then go to Jojo's for lunch. Call 727-398-1871.
Jan. 23, 3-5PM, Tampa Bay Estuary Program Community Advisory Committee, Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. Call 727-893-2765 or email nanette@tbep.org .
Florida Style Gardening Series, beginning Jan. 29 and continuing through Feb. 26, 6 to 8 p.m.
St. Catherine's of Siena Catholic Church in Clearwater. Pre-paid registration required, call 727-582-2673.
Class Schedule:
Jan. 29 – Pinellas County Growing Conditions, Soils and Fertilizers
Feb. 5 - Florida-Friendly Landscaping & Plant Installation and Establishment
Feb 12 - Florida-Friendly Landscape Management (Best Management Practices) & Pruning
Feb. 19 - Least Toxic Methods of Handling Landscape Pests (Integrated Pest Management)
Feb. 26 - Vegetable and Herb Gardening & Composting