Bird & Nature Walks

Join us at a free workshop on identifying birds, led by local ornithologist Erin Hatchett. The workshop will provide hands-on instruction, including: - an introduction to binoculars and how to focus the binoculars on birds - a presentation on bird anatomy as it pertains to field identification - field marks of birds common to this region `- basic ecology, habitat associations, and behaviors to assist in identification. Following instruction in the Kennedale community center, participants will go to Sonora Park to practice using what they have just learned. The workshop is expected to last approximately two hours, including the trip to Sonora Park. Reservations are not required but are recommended, as seating is limited to 35 people.

If you missed Trails and Treats, then here is another chance to learn more about our only flying mammal. Join us as we clear up some of the myths about bats and learn about their eating habits, adaptations, and more. Free (with paid admission).

Join us for our second annual Trails and Treats event. This free family-friendly event allows children to enjoy some “kid” time at the Nature Center in search of treats while learning about bats, our only winged mammal. Face painting, make and take crafts and surprises will round out the evening. Bat presentations will begin at 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m. Do not miss meeting the bats and enjoying the treat of being at the Nature Center. FREE ADMISSION AFTER 4:30 p.m.

Celebrate the season with us as we enjoy the changing landscape across the Refuge and discuss the reasons for our new colors, as well as everything autumn. $5 (with paid admission)/MEMBERS FREE.

The middle of October is the best time to find monarch butterflies here in North Central Texas. As they travel to their winter home in Mexico, monarchs stop for food and water. They particularly like the Liatris flowers found on the prairie here at the Refuge. Help us to find out how many are pausing for a rest here at the Refuge by participating in our monarch count this year. Collect a tally sheet at the gatehouse beginning at 8 a.m. and we will compile our findings at 1 p.m. at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center along with a short natural history presentation.

Enter the world of the majestic and massive Quercus family (oaks). Come along as we hike and learn about the diversity of the oak family, their recognizable fruits and remarkable uniqueness. $5 (with paid admission)/ MEMBERS FREE.

Every fall, birds make their annual movement from the North. The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is a great home for these weary travelers. With the milder temperatures and abundance of food, Spotted Towhee, Fox Sparrow and American White Pelicans make their home on the Refuge. Join us as we hike around and search for these winter residents. $5 (with paid admission)/MEMBERS FREE.

Michael Fazi is raising funds for his Eagle Scout project by hosting a Spaghetti Dinner. Dinner is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.

All proceeds from the dinner and all donations will go to support the construction of an outdoor classroom in Tandy Hills Natural Area. (See http://tandyhills.org/)

The eight new benches will be used for the Kids On the Prairie Program, which introduces city school kids to the wonders of nature.

Please join the Greater Fort Worth Sierra Club for an Almost Friday hike on the Trinity Trail. Meet at 6 PM at the parking lot just south of the Hoffbrau Steakhouse before the Trinity River Bridge on University for an evening hike of 3-4 miles. This trail is located just off University Drive on the west side, south of I-30 and University Dr. exit. If you get to the zoo, turn around. Bring water and snacks and comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for warm weather. Please no dogs. Hike cancelled if raining.

Geocaching is a scavenger/treasure hunt using GPS units and coordinates to find the treasure. It is the fastest growing outdoor activity in the world. Learn more at this workshop. No equipment or experience needed. This program is limited to 10 families/small groups as the number of GPS units is limited. Call Michelle at 972-291-5940 to check availability. The program is available to the general public and will be held in an outdoor amphitheater that is wheelchair and stroller accessible. All programs are subject to weather conditions.