These event are deemed appropriate for younger children
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).
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.
The Christmas Bird Count is the longest-running citizen science survey in the world, contributing invaluable data to scientists studying bird population trends. Our kids’ version of the count gives children just a taste of the real deal. Ages 5 years and up. $7. Registration required: 972-219-3930 or Lisa.Cole@UNT.edu.
Join us for a fascinating evening as we explore the wonders of the night sky. Ages 5 and up. $10. Registration required: 972-219-3930 or Lisa.Cole@UNT.edu. If the sky is cloudy, we will still meet and take a night hike.
Bird watchers of all skill levels are welcome to join our experts as they lead the way to locations for viewing of wintering sparrows, ducks and more. Some of the best birding spots are not normally available to the public, outside of a scheduled tour. Ages 10 and up. $7. Info: Lisa.Cole@UNT.edu or 972-219-3930.
Imagination Yoga instructors lead kids ages 2-12 on an exciting story-based journey through yoga poses and kindness curriculum. LLELA’s covered pavilion, beautiful pollinator garden and forest are the setting for this engaging class. $10. Info: AimeeLeach@ImaginationYoga.com.
We may hear some bumps in the night, but have no fear...it’s probably just an armadillo. Howling coyotes, hooting owls and other nocturnal sounds will provide an out-of-the-ordinary hiking experience as our guides lead you down the Redbud Trail. No flashlights are necessary. Ages 5 years and up. Registration required: 972-219-3930 or Lisa.Cole@UNT.edu. $10.