The calendar is compiled far in advance so we strongly suggest that you contact the sponsoring organization prior to the event. Some events may have fees for participation.

EXHIBITS 

Thursday through Saturday, 9am-4pm; closed Sunday through Wednesday and holidays. Connecting People and Place:  This is art-inspired, hands-on educational exhibit of the area’s history, ecology and people is a permanent feature at the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg.  Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Thursday through Saturday, 9am-4pm; closed Sunday through Wednesday and holidays. Windows to Our Wildest Place: These hands-on educational permanent exhibits help visitors understand how natural Florida has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  Call 727-453-6800 or visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Behind the Science programs at Mote Marine Laboratory offers kids ages 6 and up an opportunity to experience the lab's groundbreaking research. Ninety-minute programs on Tuesdays and Saturdays through May introduce marine animals and environments that inspire the research conducted by Mote scientists. Topics range from penguins, turtles and manatees to kayaking and seagrass snorkeling. Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

Ongoing Events

Through the end of 2012, 2pm,Pinellas by the Decades: A Centennial Celebration - A History Lecture Series:Pinellas County began celebrating 100 years of independence from Hillsborough County on Jan. 1, 2012. As part of the centennial activities, the Pinellas County Historical Society plans an engaging series of multidisciplinary lectures, Pinellas by the Decades, to be held one Sunday a month. See the website for special dates and themes. The Pinellas County Historical Society was founded in 1976 when the county donated the land for heritage village during the American bicentennial year. The society is a non-profit volunteer organization that supports Heritage Village’s mission to collect, preserve and interpret the history of Pinellas County within the context of Florida history. Call 727-582-2233 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage.

Feb. 25, Mar. 10, 2-4pm, Weedon Island Workshops – Birds of Weedon Island.  Sensing Nature will present a series of workshops exploring nature and wildlife at Weedon Island and Brooker Creek Preserve. Advance registration is required but admission is free.  For more information or to register visit http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com or call 727-453-6500. 

Feb. 28, March 27, April 24, May 15, 3:30-5pm, Behind the Science Tuesdays: Mighty Manatee Research: Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

March 6, April 3, 3:30-5pm, Behind the Science Tuesdays: Penguins March to Mote.  Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

March 10-11, 10am –5pm, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Wildlife Weekend. Visit stpete.org/boyd

March 10, April 7, May 5, 10-11:30am, Behind the Science Saturdays: Exploring the Bay: Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

Mar. 11-13, Florida Ornithological Society Spring Meeting, Odessa, Florida. www.tampaaudubon.org 

March 12-16, 8:30am-4:30pm,Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, Spring Break Camp 2012. This year Mote is offering a brand new Spring Break Camp for elementary age students. Campers will experience marine science through hands-on activities, games and exploration of Sarasota Bay.  Through these fun activities, we will discover how ocean animals live in their habitat and what they eat. Campers will meet at the MERC Education Building each morning for a fun-filled day of ocean encounters.  Members $324, Non Members $360.  (After Camp Care offered till 5:00 p.m. for additional $30/ week).  Contact Information: Debbie Tidwell, 941-388-4441 ext 229 or debbie@mote.org.   www.mote.org/springbreakcamp

March 13, April 10, May 1, 3:30-5pm, Behind the Science Tuesdays: Fish Inside & Out (a combination of art and science).  Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

Mar. 17-18, 7am, Tour Sanibel Island and Corkscrew Swamp with Tampa Audubon Society.  Meet in the McDonalds at Rt. 60 near I-75.  We will drive through Cape Coral on the way and look for burrowing owls.  Then we will spend Saturday on Sanibel Island in the Ding Darling Preserve.  We will go to Audubon's Corkscrew Sanctuary on Sunday.  Make your own arrangements for Saturday night. Call Bill Lamoureux for information about motels if you need it.  Bring lunch for both days.  Call 813-839-2742 or email wlamoureux@aol.com

Mar. 17, Mar. 31, Apr. 7; 10am-12pm, Birds of Brooker Creek.  Sensing Nature will present a series of workshops exploring nature and wildlife at Brooker Creek Preserve. Advance registration is required but admission is free. For more information or to register, go to http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com or 727-453-6500. 
Feb. 25, Mar. 3; 10am-12pm, Brooker Creek Preserve Workshops: Wild Florida.  Sensing Nature will present a series of workshops exploring nature and wildlife at Weedon Island and Brooker Creek Preserve beginning in February. Advance registration is required. Admission is free.  For more information or to register, go to http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com or 727-453-6500. 

Mar. 17, Mar. 31, Apr. 7; 2-4pm, Weedon Island Workshops – Weedon Island: Restoring Nature’s Balance.  Sensing Nature will present a series of workshops exploring nature and wildlife at Weedon Island and Brooker Creek Preserve beginning in February. Advance registration is required. Admission is free.  For more information or to register go to http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com or 727-453-6500. 

March 20, April 17, May 8, 3:30-5pm, Behind the Science Tuesdays: Turtle Tracking Technology: Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

March 24, April 14, May 12, 10-11:30am, Behind the Science Saturdays: Kayaking: Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

March 31, April 28, May 19, 10-11:30am, Behind the Science Saturdays: Snorkeling: Experience Mote's groundbreaking research during these Behind the Science programs. Inquiring minds ages 6 and older have the opportunity to conduct hands-on activities and experiments and enjoy a guided visit to a Mote exhibit.  Details and registration at www.mote.org/behindthescience.

April 21 & April 28, 8am, Spring Migration with St. Petersburg Audubon at Ft. DeSoto County Park.  Meet 8 a.m. at the flagpole at park headquarters.  Bring binoculars, hat & water. Contact fieldtrips@stpeteaudubon.org or visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/  $5 park entrance fee.

Apr. 21, May 5, May 19; 10am-12pm, Brooker Creek: Restoring Nature's Balance.  Sensing Nature will present a series of workshops exploring nature and wildlife at Brooker Creek Preserve. Attend one, two or all three of the series; advance registration is required. Admission is free.  For more information or to register, go to http://brookercreekpreserve.eventbrite.com or 727-453-6500.

Apr. 21, May 5, May 19; 2-4pm, Weedon Island Workshops – Weedon Island: Sensing Wildlife.  Sensing Nature will present a series of workshops exploring nature and wildlife at Weedon Island. Attend one, two or all three of the series; advance registration is required. Admission is free.  For more information or to register go to http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com or 727-453-6500. 

Tuesdays starting in March and continuing through May, 10-11am,Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium: Mommy and Me: Exploring the Bay.  Explore coastal habitats by wading in the water collecting marine animals with dip nets. Ages 2-5 with adult.  www.mote.org/mommyandme

2nd and 4th Saturday,10am-1pm. Ask an Extension Master Gardener. Come visit the Manatee Extension Master Gardener information table and get answers to your gardening questions. Location: Rocky Bluff Library, 6750 U.S. Highway 301N, Ellenton.  941-722-4524, Ext. 222

Second Thursday of the month except where noted, 7pm, Tampa Audubon General Meeting (Photo Club will meet at 6 pm).  Hillsborough County Extension Office, 5339 CR 579, Seffner, 1/2 mile south of exit 10 on I-4. Programs are free and open to the public - Please come and check us out.  www.tampaaudubon.org 

Most Saturdays and Sundays, except holidays, 10-11am; Nature Walks along the trails at Fort De Soto Park: Free one-hour guided nature walks are offered along six different trails. Visitors at the park will be absorbed in the abundance of history, natural beauty and the complexity of the ecology not immediately apparent to the occasional beach-goer. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wild life and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto Park. The largest park within the Pinellas County park system, the park consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys). These keys are home to beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods and scores of native plants. Each of these species plays a vital role in the preservation and protection of the natural environment. The park is also home to more than 290 species of birds and free beaches that provide refuge to the loggerhead sea turtles. Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway, S., Tierra Verde. For more information, call 727-552-1862; or visit www.pinellascounty.org/park.

http://weedonislandpreserve.eventbrite.com; Coast Guard Auxiliary Safe Boating Courses available throughout West Central Florida.Boat operators at skill levels learn basic boating skills; become eligible for boat insurance discounts. The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary’s nationally-recognized boating safety education courses continue this spring at more than 15 locations around Tampa Bay and West Central Florida. The courses present to boaters the knowledge to properly equip and the skills to safely operate vessels while underway on inland, offshore and land-locked waters.  The classes are the most comprehensive available and designed for anyone with an interest in boating, including owners, passengers, jet ski operators, those planning a boat purchase, families with boats, anglers and paddlesporters. Courses are offered year-round; course length ranges from one day to 12 weeks, depending on location.  Course costs vary and generally include textbook, certificate, instructional videos, safety equipment demos and boatloads of important federal/Florida boating law publications.  Course graduates may be eligible for boat insurance discounts ranging from 10 to 25 per cent.  Safe boating classes are offered in Apollo Beach, Bradenton, Brandon, Clearwater, Crystal River, Dunedin, Gulfport, Hudson, Madeira Beach, Palmetto, Port Richey, Ruskin, St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg Beach, Tampa, Sarasota, Yankeetown and in other areas south and east.  Schedules and other details are available by visiting cgaux.org and using the “Boating Safety Education” link.  Contact information for all locations is available on the website. Auxiliary courses satisfy the new Florida law requiring boaters born on or after January 1, 1988 and operating a vessel of 10 HP or more to complete an approved boating safety course and to carry the Florida Boating Safety Education ID card.  Details are available at myfwc.com.

FEBRUARY

Feb. 25, 8-10am; Bird Walk at Weedon: Many of Florida’s colonial water birds can be sighted at Weedon Island Preserve during the winter months. Trained volunteers will assist participants in documenting the variety of wading birds that frequent the coastal shores as well as the many birds of prey and other species. Binoculars available.  Free. Recommended for adults. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 25, 9-10:30am, Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727-453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org. 

Feb. 25, 9-11am, Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org. 

Feb. 25, 10-11:30, Florida Snakes, native necessities to invasive predators: Appreciating the native, beneficial snakes can be difficult for some, while removing the problematic non-native invasive snakes can be almost impossible. Join a Sensing Nature biologist and discover venomous and non-venomous snake identification tips, habitats and the snake’s role in Florida’s landscape. After the indoor presentation participants will enjoy a nature walk while discussing Florida’s natural wonders. This is the second of the three-part Brooker Creek Preserve Wild Florida series. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727-453-6800; or www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Feb. 25, 2-3:30pm, Owl Cast Cafe©: Silent flight, fantastic vision, fast reflexes and piercing talons. All of these adaptations make our Florida owls noble nocturnal predators. Learn from a Sensing Nature biologist how these stealth hunters benefit both nature and us through their chosen diets. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 25, 8am, Circle B Bar Preserve.  Meet at the McDonalds at Rte 60 near I-75.  We will walk the trails looking for waterfowl, rails, wading birds and raptors.  Quite a bit of walking on hard packed dirt trails.  Bring Water.  Contact Bill Lamoureux  813-839-2742 - wlamoureux@aol.com

Feb. 25, 8am–11:30am, Shorebirds Class #2 with St. Pete Audubon, $30.  Learn to ID those little brown creatures scurrying on the beach with Maureen Arnold & John Ogden.  Call Maureen 727-577-0448 to register and visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/

Feb. 25, 6:30-7:30pm, History of Modern Kayaking: Nigel Foster, world premier kayaker and author of From the Mists of Time and other books, instructional DVDs and magazine columns presents his kayaking adventures. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Feb. 25, 9-11am, Manatee County’s Certified Master Naturalist Habitat Tour at Flatford Swamp. Guided tour with Lisa Hickey, Certified Master Naturalist Instructor. Be adventurous and slog through a wetland habitat slough. Wetlands and freshwater habitats are vital natural systems that filter pollutants before they reach our surface and groundwater supply, support many wildlife species, and are diminishing every year. Located in eastern Manatee County at 39450 Taylor Road, Myakka City.  Unless otherwise noted, all classes are free and are held at the Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Service, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221. Minimum workshop size is required; workshop size is limited. For workshops that require a fee, please make checks payable to “Friends of Extension.” Register in advance online via our website at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call 941-722-4524 for all workshops.

Feb. 28,1:30-4:30pm, SMART LANDSCAPE – PLANNING AND CARE: Presented by Elissa Mirabelli, Horticulture Program Assistant at Manatee County Extension. This class satisfies the landscape portion of the Manatee County Outdoor Water Conservation Rebate Program. Learn practical design tips, landscape pitfalls, garden chores, hardscape choices, texture combinations and remedies for difficult areas. For plant identification, arrive early with a branch with leaves (and ideally with flower or seed).  Unless otherwise noted, all classes are free and are held at the Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Service, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221. Minimum workshop size is required; workshop size is limited. For workshops that require a fee, please make checks payable to “Friends of Extension.” Register in advance online via our website at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call 941-722-4524 for all workshops.

Feb. 29, 9-11:30am, BUCKET BRIGADE: Presented by Manatee County Extension. Learn container gardening and how to assemble a bucket to use for your gardening needs. Bring two round 5-gallon buckets. Location: Horticulture Learning Center. Unless otherwise noted, all classes are free and are held at the Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Service, 1303 17th Street West, Palmetto, Florida 34221. Minimum workshop size is required; workshop size is limited. For workshops that require a fee, please make checks payable to “Friends of Extension.” Register in advance online via our website at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu or call 941-722-4524 for all workshops.

MARCH

Mar. 1. 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727-453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 1, 6:45-8pm, Salty Topics – Underwater Soundscapes of Coastal Florida: Second in the 2012 Winter/Spring Marine Science Speaker series at the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center. Many are unaware that the underwater environment can be very noisy and air-water interface is a difficult barrier for acoustic energy to overcome. Biological sources of sound production range from invertebrates to mammals, but the most prolific source is associated with courtship and spawning behaviors of fishes. Presented by James Locascio, Ph.D., currently a post-doctoral scholar at Mote Marine Laboratory.  Free; registration required. Refreshments donated by Friends of Weedon Island. Weedon Island Cultural and Natural History Center at 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33702. 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org

Mar 2, 5pm, Magnify It.  Pasco Palms Preserve – meet at Eagle Point Park. Learn to identify plants easily when you magnify them and use our custom information cards.  727.847.2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net

Mar.3, 7am, Tour Felts Audubon Preserve, Emerson Point Park and The Celery Fields with Tampa Audubon Society.  Meet at the McDonalds at Rt. 60 near I-75.  We will spend a couple of hours at the preserve and then go onto Emerson Point.  There will be an entrance fee at the park.  On the way back we will stop at the Celery Fields.  Bring water and lunch.  www.tampaaudubon.org 

March 3, 8am – 11am, Boyd Hill Monthly Bird Walk with St. Petersburg Audubon Society, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg map.  Leader: Ron Smith - Meet 8am., Nature Center parking lot. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before posted start time.  Bring binoculars, hat  and water. Contact fieldtrips@stpeteaudubon.org or visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/

Mar. 3, 9am-noon, Florida Friendly Family Festival at Manatee County Extension.  Fun activities, learning programs and entertainment for children of all ages on environmental awareness and water conservation.  Master Gardner’s Plant Sale and Trash to Treasure Sale.  Local entertainment, food provided by North Manatee Kiwanis Club, 4-H kids, eco-activity area, local exhibitors with lots of eco-friendly tips.  Showcase your business, booths are free. Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1303 17th St, W. Palmetto. Contact Michelle at 941-722-4524 or michelleatkinnson@ufl.edu

Mar. 3, 9am-noon, Tampa Bay Watch is recruiting 150 volunteers to plant salt marsh at Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve. The address of the project site is 3709 Gulf City Road, Ruskin, FL 33570. Salt marsh planting projects are an environmental tool for restoring lost coastal habitat. This is a very muddy project, you will get dirty. You'll need to wear clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting wet and dirty. Remember to wear shoes that tie to your feet. Do not wear flip flops or slip-on shoes. Bring a towel to dry off and a plastic bag to put your wet shoes in when finished. Please bring a water bottle to fill up and carry with you. There will be coolers full of water, but they will be scattered throughout the site. Wear a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and bring garden gloves. Email Rachel at rarndt@tampabaywatch.org or call 727-867-8166 x233 with questions about this project.

Mar. 3. Noon-12:45pm, Rain Harvesting: Learn how to save rainwater in a recycled plastic barrel. One or two rain barrels may be purchased at the time of registration. Free; advance registration required. Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo.  727-582-2100; www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Mar. 3, 10am-2:30pm, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium: Girl Scout Patch: Animal Helpers. Girl Scout patch workshops are offered on select dates and by special request. Details and registration at www.mote.org/scouts  
Mar. 3, 9-10:30am, Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727-453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

 Mar. 3, 10:30-noon, Pier Aquarium, guest author: Suzanne Tate reads her new book, Teena Tortoise, A Tale of a Little Giant. Craft Activity: Sea Turtle puppet.   Featured Creature: Sea Turtle.  727-803-79799, ext. 207, estehle@pieraquarium.org or www.pieraquarium.org 

Mar. 3, 10-11:30am, Prehistoric Florida: Journey back into Florida’s past when the saber cat, giant sloth, mammoth, giant tortoise and bison roamed the Sunshine State. A Sensing Nature biologist guides participants through this final Wild Florida program on mega-fauna that ruled the county’s coastal habitats. Adults and families welcome; space is limited. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.  727-453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 3, History Hike: Hike past remnants of the Grand Central Airport, learn of early native peoples of Weedon Island and the colorful past of the 1920s. History comes alive for adults and children age 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org. 

Mar. 3, 11am-2pm; professional lecture at 1pm, Celebrate Coastal Archaeology: Weedon Island Preserve is a significant archaeological heritage site on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Learn about current research in the Tampa Bay area with hands-on activities, professional talks and tours of an on-site excavation. See the new interactive, educational “Archaeo Cart” from Florida Public Archaeology Network and get on the road to discovery. Free. Advance registration for excavation tours. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org. 

Mar. 5, 7:30pm, Mote's Immersion Cinema with Charles “Flip” Nicklin, Nicklin is an award-winning contributing photographer for National Geographic magazine and founder of Whale Trust. His new book Among Giants: A life with whales features his history and experiences studying whales.  Cost is $12 for Mote members and $15 for non-members. Reserve your seat online or call 941-388-4441, ext. 691 or register at www.mote.org/lecture

Mar. 6, 8am-3pm, Live it, Love it, Preserve it. Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful.  Environmental Conference for Future “Eco Activists,” sponsored by Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful for High School and College students. Preregistration required; Contact: Pat DePlasco 813-221-8733 or pdeplasco@keeptbb.org

Mar. 6, 2:30-4:00pm, Manatee Energy Efficiency Project. Each participant will receive a free energy conservation kit, limit one per household.  To register, please call Sharon at (941) 722-4524.

Mar. 8, 9am-noon, Agency on Bay Management Meeting.  Please call 727-570-5151 ext 32, email Suzanne@tbrpc.org for current information or visit the website www.tbrpc.org/abm.   
  
Mar. 8, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727-453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 8, 10:30-11:15am, Wee-Time: Children ages 3 to 5 delight in the story of a ladybug with an attitude, The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle. Children will participate in a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar. 8, Two classes at 2pm and 6:15 pm, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ around ponds: Participants will receive an overview of the principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ and information about the purpose of storm water ponds emphasizing low maintenance landscaping, irrigation practices and reducing polluted runoff into storm water ponds. Doris Heitzmann, the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ community outreach coordinator from the University of Florida IFAS Extension Service invites homeowners to learn about some simple steps that can be taken to keep ponds and lakes healthy.  Held at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor.  Free; advance registration required. Hosted by Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. 727- 582-2100; www.pinellascountyextension.org.

 Mar. 9, 8-10am, Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn to identify marks and behaviors of birds by taking advantage of this guided hike. Binoculars available.  Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727- 453-6500; or www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar. 10, 8-10:30am, Birds of Brooker Hike: Join us on a hike to discover and collect observational data on the diverse bird species found in the preserve. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring water and a hat. Bring along binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras. Best for adults. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727- 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar,10, 9-11:30am, Lettuce Lake Park for beginning birders. Meet at the visitors center.  We will walk the boardwalk and trails looking for waterbirds, ducks and wintering residents.  Contact Pat Lewis, 813-907-6542 or plewis8216@aol.com

Mar. 10, 9 to 11am, Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727- 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar. 10, noon-3pm, Discovering Wildlife with Your Child: Who lives in that skin; what is the difference between a carnivore and an herbivore; whose tracks are those? Stop by our classroom anytime between noon and 3 pm to participate in a variety of self-guided nature games and activities. A Brooker Creek Environmental Center volunteer will be available to answer your questions. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727- 453-6800;  www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 10, 2-4pm, The Feathers of Florida – Past, Present and Future: From the plume trade to future trends, learn how Florida’s coastal birds have shaped Pinellas County’s conservation successes. On this final of a three-part Birds of Weedon Island series, a Sensing Nature biologist will explain how county residents can make a difference that impacts generations into the future. After an indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727- 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar. 12, 7:30pm, Mote's Immersion Cinema with José Castro, Ph.D. with Mote’s Center for Shark Research and a fisheries biologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Author of the new book, The Sharks of North America, Castro will recount more than 25 years of advances in shark research.  Cost is $12 for Mote members and $15 for non-members. Reserve your seat online or call 941-388-4441, ext. 691 or register at www.mote.org/lecture

Mar.13, 7pm - "Introducing Florida Friendly Landscaping to a Home Owners Association (HOA),"  Master Gardener Tom Ungaro will review the 9 principles of Florida Friendly Landscaping, and share guidelines that he used to introduce and obtain approval for implementing a Florida Friendly landscape within a Deed Restricted Community.   727-849-2335 or http://www.pasconativeplants.org.

Mar. 15, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727- 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 17, 9-10:30am, Explore and Hike Philippe Park: There is much history to learn and nature to explore during this 90-minute program at the park. Closed-toe shoes, water, hat, sunscreen and insect repellant are recommended. Free; limited to 12 participants, children must be accompanied by an adult; advance registration required. Philippe Park, 2525 Philippe Parkway, Safety Harbor. 727- 669-1947; dickestes76@yahoo.com.

Mar. 17, 8:30am-1pm, Sawgrass Lake in Pinellas County: Invasive plant removal.  “Give A Day” workdays are sponsored by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program in partnership with city and county governments and non-profit organizations. Become a volunteer today. Call 727-893-2765 or e-mail volunteer@tbep.org.

Mar. 17, 9-11am, Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 am Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  727- 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar. 17, 9-10:30am, Native Plants of Brooker Creek Hike: Learn about the diverse native plant life found in the preserve and the natural communities they inhabit on this guided hike.  Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727- 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 17, 10am-noon, Beyond Birding©– First in Birds of Brooker Creek Series: Why are their bills curved; how does their color help them catch their prey or help them avoid becoming prey; why are they found in some habitats and not others? A Sensing Nature guide provides an interactive birding presentation focusing on bird adaptations, habitats and their ecologic role at Brooker Creek. Leave your birding checklists at home. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk in this three-part Birds of Brooker Creek series. Attend one, two or all three programs. Participants attending all three programs will receive a “Florida Waterbirds” identification poster by wildlife artist Ernest C. Simmons. Adults and families welcome. Free. Limited space so advance registration required. No dogs. Wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727- 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 17, 2-4pm, Guiding Nature: Mitigation, Restoration and Enhancement: What are mitigation, restoration and enhancement, and how do they apply to thriving natural environments? Learn some of the important aspects about land management and improvement tools such as prescribed fire and how they are vital to our natural areas. This program includes a habitat hike of restoration in action. A Sensing Nature biologist is the guide for this series. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727- 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

March 20, 7pm, Wildlife of India's Kaziranga National Park with St. Petersburg Society, Science Center of Pinellas County, 7701 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg map.  St. Pete Audubon members Lindsay and Tom Bell talk about unique wildlife in Kaziranga National Park. Visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/

Mar 21, 8pm, Stargazing.  Upper Cotee Preserve, 17135 Minneola Dr., Spring Hill 34610.   Join amateur expert Joe Colontonio in viewing stars, planets and constellations. Contact 727.847.2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net

Mar. 21, 10am-2pm, Mote Marine Laboratory’s Home School Days, Life is Good: Baby Season in the Sea: Spring has sprung which can only mean one thing:  BABIES.   Learn about life cycles of different marine animals in Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico and the challenges they face while growing up.   Details and registration at www.mote.org/homeschool.

Mar. 22, 10:30-11:15am, Wee-Time: Children ages 3 to 5 learn there are many types of bees in the world in the story Busy Buzzers: Bees in Your Backyard by Nancy Lowen. Children will participate in a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Contact 727-453-6500 or www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

 Mar. 22, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Contact 727-453-6800 or www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 24, 8-10am, Photography Hike: This hike is the perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session highlighting specific wildlife behaviors, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty in photos. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.  Contact 727- 453-6500 or  www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar. 24, 9-10:30am, Brooker Creek Guided Hike: See how the land has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Call 727- 453-6800 or visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 24, 9-11am, Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar.25, Tampa Audubon Society tours Bird Golden Aster Preserve Balm /Boyette with Dave Goodwin looking for winter residents and early migrants.  A lot of walking on sandy trails.  Bring water and repellant. Contact dave.goodwin@aol.com.

Mar. 29, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

March 31, 8am, Dunedin Hammock City Park Bird Walk with St. Petersburg Audubon Society, 1900 San Mateo Dr., Dunedin, FL map.  Meet 8 am in parking lot at hammock. Bring binoculars, hat and water. Contact fieldtrips@stpeteaudubon.org or visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/

Mar. 31, 9-11am, Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Mar 31, 10am–2pm, Drive-by Invasives at Fivay Cemetery, Kent Grove Rd, north off of 52 west of 41.  Visit our roadside information table to get free invader plant giveaways and learn how to control invasive plant species, Pasco County Environmental Lands Program. Contact 727.847.2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net

Mar. 31, 10-11:30am, Owl Cast Café: second in the Birds of Brooker Creek series: Silent flight, fantastic vision, fast reflexes and piercing talons. All of these adaptations make our Florida owls noble nocturnal predators. From small screech owls to large horned owls, a Sensing Nature biologist will explain how these stealth hunters benefit both nature and humans through their chosen diets. Adults and families welcome. Free; limited space so advance registration required. No dogs. Wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727- 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Mar. 31, 2-4pm, Wildlife Sentinels: A Sensing Nature biologist will share success stories about protecting important Florida wildlife including the bald eagle, Florida black bear, gopher tortoise and Florida panther. Learn about the current assistance given these species, improvements still needed for their protection and discover ways to take action. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. This is the second in the three-part Weedon Island series. Participants attending all three programs will receive a Florida restoration information packet. No dogs. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727- 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

APRIL

Apr 5, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Call 727-453-6800 or visit  www.brookercreekpreserve.org.
Apr 7, Tampa Audubon Society visit Cedar Key.  Mary Keith will give us a guided tour of this area looking for active birding sports.  Bring lunch or plan to go to a local restaurant.  813-935-6115 keithma1@juno.com

Apr. 7, 8:30am-1pm, Walsingham Reservoir Pinellas County: Invasive plant removal.  “Give A Day” workdays are sponsored by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, in partnership with city and county governments and non-profit organizations. Become a volunteer today. Call 727-893-2765 or e-mail volunteer@tbep.org.

Apr. 7, 10:30-noon, Celebrating Earth Day (April 22) early at The Pier Aquarium with our own Beach Clean-up.  I Can Save the Ocean by Alison Inches.  Activity: Beach Clean-up starts at 9:30am. Craft Activity: Max the little Green Monster stick puppet.  Contact Jaclyn Mousoulias 727-895-7437 ext 205, jmousoulias@pieraquarium.org

Apr. 7, 2-4pm, The Balancing Act: Without healthy habitats, wildlife faces permanent eviction. When should nature take its course and when should a helping hand be offered? Join Sensing Nature to learn ways to insure healthy balances are achieved in backyards, communities and throughout the state. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr. 7, 9-11am, Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit  www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr. 7, The Feathers of Florida: From the plume trade to future trends, Florida’s coastal birds have shaped our country’s conservation successes. A Sensing Nature biologist will explain how citizens can make a difference during this second of the three-part Birds of Brooker Creek Preserve series. After the indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. Attend one, two or all three programs; participants attending all three will receive a “Florida Waterbirds” identification poster by Wildlife Artist Ernest C. Simmons. Adults and families welcome. Limited space. No dogs, and please wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing. Meet at the auditorium.  Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Call 727-453-6800 or visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Apr.10, 7:00pm - "Medicinal Plants: Trees in Our Woods" by Sid Taylor.  This program grew from 12 years of presenting the Pioneer Medicine Woman table at Chinsegut Nature Center for Pioneer Day.  We'll be previewing phase one: the traditional use of trees from our woods.  This is an historical investigation of ethno botany and not intended to be a recommendation for treatments.  Consult with your doctor before applying any alternative medicines for healing.  Join us to learn some of the fascinating ways common trees in our woods have been used throughout the history of people in Florida.  Call 727-849-2335 or visit http://www.pasconativeplants.org.

Apr. 12, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Call 727-453-6800 or visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Apr. 12, 10:30-11:15am, Wee-Time at Weedon: Children ages 3 to 5 will hear Tiny Workers: Ants in Your Backyard by Nancy Loewen, then participate in a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr. 12, 9am-noon, Agency on Bay Management Meeting.  Meeting times and dates are subject to change.  Please call 727-570-5151 ext 32, email Suzanne@tbrpc.org for current agenda or visit www.tbrpc.org/abm.     

Apr.14, 9-11:30am, Tampa Audubon Society - Lettuce Lake Park for beginning birders. Meet at the visitors center.  We will walk the boardwalk and trails looking for waterbirds, ducks and wintering residents. (Entrance fee to the park is $2.00)  Contact Mary Keith, 813-935-6115 or -keithma1@juno.com

Apr. 14, 9-11am, Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr 17, 7pm, Water, Wilderness, Wetlands and White Birds with John Canter with St. Petersburg Audubon Society, Science Center of Pinellas County, 7701 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg.  Member National Audubon Society; International Crane Foundation; Hong Kong Birdwatching Society; lifetime member, Whooping Crane Conservation Association. Visit www.stpeteaudubon.com for more information

Apr.  19, 10:30-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Call 727-453-6800 or visit  www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Apr.  21. 8-10am, Photography Hike: A perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session highlighting specific wildlife behaviors, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty in photos. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr.  21, 9-11am, Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr.  21, 2-4pm, Unveiling Our Urban Wildlife:  Learn what wildlife lurks in our metropolitan jungle in this first of a three-part series. An “urban safari” connects wildlife signs with the importance of our urban habitats. Participants will learn to identify scat and other evidence left by common wildlife, and are encouraged to bring critter scat samples, photos, chew evidence or other wildlife signs for discussion and identification. After an indoor presentation, participants will experience Florida’s natural wonders on a nature walk. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing highly recommended. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

April 21, 9am-2pm, Wildlife Safari for kids ages 3-12.  Walk along the wild side.  Wild animals native to Brooker Creek Preserve will be stationed along a one-mile trail.  Kids get passports stamped at each wildlife station and get a free t-shirt and prize for completing the adventure. $5 per child.  Parents and older children free. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, FL  34689  Call 727-943-2680 or email fobcp@tampabay.rr.com

Apr. 21, 8am-12pm, Great American Cleanup –locations throughout the Tampa Bay region. Contact the group closets to you:

• Keep Manatee Beautiful, www.keepmanateebeautiful.com or 941-795-8272
• Keep Pasco Beautiful, www.keeppascobeautiful.org or 888-454-8837
• Keep Pinellas Beautiful, www.keeppinellasbeautiful.org or 727-533-0402
• Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, www.keeptampabaybeautiful.org or call 813-221-8733

Apr. 22,  4pm -9pm, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful Celebrates Earth Day, Friend Raiser @ Skippers  Smokehouse, 910 Skipper Rd, Tampa Fl.  Friends of Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful are invited to share in celebration of Earth Day with great food, drinks and song.  Contact: Pat DePlasco 813-221-8733 or pdeplasco@keeptbb.org.

Apr 24, 7-10pm, Restoring Florida’s Native Plant Communities from the Ground Up.  Starkey Education Center, 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd, NPR 34655.  See the magical transformation from disturbed land back to natural forest and flowers led by Kent  Williges,  botanist with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Contact  727-847-2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net.

Apr 24, 10am–1pm, Earth Day at PHCC.  10230 Ridge Rd, New Port Richey 34654.  Dozens of groups, tables, and hands-on activities celebrate a healthy planet - open to the public and all ages.  Held in front of the library. Contact 727.847.2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net

Apr. 25, 10:330-11:15am, Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. Call 727-453-6800 or visit  www.brookercreekpreserve.org.

Apr.  26 , 10:30-11:15 am, Wee-Time at Weedon: Children ages 3 to 5 will hear the story Diary of a Spider by Doreen Cronin, and will then participate in a craft, game or other hands-on activity. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve,1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr.  28, 9-11am, Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-453-6500 or visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org.

Apr.28, 7:30am, Tour Weedon Island and Sawgrass Lake with Tampa Audubon Society.  Meet at the McDonalds on Manhattan Ave and Gandy Blvd.  We will check Gandy Beach for shorebirds on the way to Weedon Island.  Easy but extensive walking mostly on boardwalks on Weedon island, then on to Sawgrass Lake for more easy walking.  Bring water and repellant.  Contact Mary Keith, 813-935-6115 -keithma1@juno.com

Apr 28, 9am–1pm, Celebrate Earth Day at Crews Lake with Pasco Environmental Lands. 16739 Crews Lake Dr,  Shady Hills.  Pop-top bracelets, vinyl records turned into bowls, and a large native plant sale have been highlights of past Earth Days.  Contact 727-847-2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net

Apr. 28, 2012 Save The Frogs.  Art Contest is seeking entries. All ages may enter, and schools are encouraged to draw frog art on Save the Frogs Day April 28. Deadline for submission is October 15. Learn more and see past contest winners at
http://www.savethefrogs.com/art/index.html  

Apr. 29, 8am, Tour Fort De Soto Park with Tampa Audubon Society. Meet at the visitor center and then tour various sites looking for spring migrant warblers, tanagers, orioles buntings, etc.  Quite a bit of easy walking with one possible wet spot  Bring water, repellant and lunch for a picnic at Arrowhead.  Contact Bill Lamoureux, 813-839-2742 or  wlamoureux@aol.com

MAY

May 4, 7pm-11pm, Tropical Nights Benefit for Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful.  Cruise Terminal #3, Tampa Port Authority.  Silent Auction, Great Food, Open Bar.  Tickets $100/person.  For more information call 813-221-8733 or email roneil@keeptbb.org

May 5, 8am, Tampa Audubon tours the Brandon Rookery. Meet at the McDonalds at Rt. 60 near I-75.  Bring your cameras for a close-up look at the nesting wading birds.  Contact Tammy Lions at tlyons77@hotmail.

May 5, 10:30-noon, Ocean Habitats at The Pier Aquarium.  A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle. Presentation Activity: Hermit Crab Mini-touch Tank Craft Activity:  Make a “house” for hermit crab. Featured Creature: Hermit Crab 727-803-79799, ext. 207, estehle@pieraquarium.org www.pieraquarium.org 

May 5, 8am – 11am, Boyd Hill Monthly Bird Walk with St. Petersburg Audubon Society, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg.  Leader: Ron Smith - Meet 8 am., Nature Center parking lot. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before posted start time.  Bring binoculars, hat & water. Contactfieldtrips@stpeteaudubon.org or visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/

May 8, 7:00 pm -  "Becoming Better Environmental Stewards Through the Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP)"  Interested in learning more about Florida's natural environment, conservation issues and environmental ethics?  If so, consider taking the University of Florida's statewide FMNP.  Join Sensing Nature biologists and University of Florida FMNP instructors Jeanne Murphy and Brian Lane for an interactive overview about this grassroots, adult, non-credit, environmental education program.  The FMNP is appropriate for both novice nature enthusiasts and highly skilled environmental professionals. Visit http://www.pasconativeplants.org.

May 12, 9am, Wildflower Walk.  Upper Cotee Preserve, 17135 Minneola Dr,  Spring Hill.  Join the local chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society and stroll the Upper Cotee’s 1.1-mile trail looking at early summer wildflowers.  Contact 727.847.2411 x 8333 or kmacmillen@pascocountyfl.net.

May 12, 9am, Lettuce Lake Park for beginning birders. Meet at the visitors center.  We will walk the boardwalk and trails looking for waterbirds, ducks and wintering residents.  (Entrance fee to the park is $2.00)  Contact Bill Lamoureux, 813-839-2742 or wlamoureux@aol.com

May 13, 6:30pm, Boat trip around Coffeepot Bayou Bird Island with St. Petersburg Audubon Society.  Get a close look at an island rookery at the height of nesting season. Meet at the St. Pete Pier by the bait house 6:30 pm. For reservations contact Alice Tenney or email BirdWVa@aol.com or visit http://www.stpeteaudubon.org/