Bird and nature walks, tree and plant identification, and more
Following in the footsteps of Darwin, Dr. James Bednarz, professor of biology, University of North Texas, will take us to the exotic Galapagos Islands for a close-up look at the endangered Galapagos Hawk. Jim served as Hawk Mountain Sanctuary director of research and higher education from 1987 to 1990.
For ages 14 and up. $140. Call for class time.
Have you ever wondered where wildlife goes during the winter months? Come learn about how plants and animals survive during the sometimes harsh conditions. Who knows, maybe we’ll even get some snow! Meet at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center. Free (with paid admission: $2-$5).
Join a Naturalist for an up close and personal examination of some of the smaller, often overlooked wonders found on the Refuge. Slow down and increase your powers of observation. A short presentation precedes the hike. Bring water and dress for the weather. Insect repellent highly recommended. Free (with paid admission: $2-$5).
Enjoy a short hike and view the beautiful colors of the fall on the trails of the FWNC&R. Learn why leaves change to different colors in the fall. Why do some leaves go directly to brown? Why do live oaks keep their green leaves all year long? Bring water and dress for the weather. Insect repellent highly recommended. Free (with paid admission: $2-$5).
Join a Naturalist on a hike of the River Bottom Trail as we learn about the flora and fauna found in this unusual habitat. We’ll meet at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center for a brief power point presentation and then venture out onto the trails to hope to see a portion of what was discussed. Free (with paid admission: $2-$5).
Enjoy an old-fashioned hayride to the bison range where you will get to see the bison up close and personal as you assist staff in feeding them range cubes. We will visit the hay barn where you can learn about our bison management practices. During the entire hayride, we will discuss the habitats represented at the Nature Center as well. Meet at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center. Pre-Registration required. $16 (includes admission fee). Under 3 years old free, but child must sit on adult’s lap.
Rides: 10-11:30am and 1-2:30pm
Hike the 72-acre Meadow Preserve at the monthly open house. Free.
Enter at gate on east side of Alma, south of Bethany. Info: 214-351-0990. Info@ConnemaraConservancy.org.
Bring binoculars and field guides if have them. Learn what to look for with help from the Prairie and Timbers Audubon Society. Can expect about 30+ species. All ages welcome. Free.
It's a new year and a new you. Time once again to test your mettle! Our goal is to hike border-to border-to-border-to-border, tracing the steel cable that defines the 160-acre boundary of Tandy Hills Natural Area.