Wildlife

Purple Martins and humans have a special connection that goes back hundreds of years. Purple Martins thrill people in a variety of ways throughout their life cycle. This presentation will cover that life cycle, dispel some of the myths surrounding martins, touch on some of the recent research findings and highlight some of the ways that birders and non-birders alike can connect with this spectacular bird. A special invitation has also been extended to visit the stunning migration roost in Austin. 

A workshop based on Doug Tallamy’s book Bringing Nature Home

* Keynote by Sam Kieschnick—DFW Urban Biologist with TPWD

* Small interactive workshops with experts

* Learn to landscape with native plants to sustain our local wildlife

* Limited to 100 people

Info and registration:

http://llelafriends.org/bringing_nature_to_your_home1.aspx

Sparrow Camp, lead by Dr. Byron Stone and co-leaders of Friends of the Balcones Canyonland NWR's SparrowFest near Austin. Workshop fee includes donation to the Friends group, meals from Friday dinner/desert to Sunday breakfast, sparrow ID class, three field trips on 2 private ranchs, onsite housing also available. Early Bird Special through Jan. 31.

Info: Sandy Skrei. stay@highhoperanch.com, cell: 512-554-7421, office, 254-898-4296.

The focus of this meeting will be about nesting birds like egrets and herons. City staff and a wildlife biologist from Texas Parks and Wildlife will address issues associated with these birds. Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, these nesting birds are federally protected, which means neither residents nor the city can do anything to disturb them once they have started nesting.

Richard Threlkeld, a Texas Master Beekeeper and member of Metro Beekeepers' Association, will talk about beekeeping, the state of the species and pollination. 

Presentation by Brock Huffman, owner and founder of Chiapas Birding Adventures, LLC, on the abundant birdlife, archaeological sites and the distinct culture in Chiapas, Mexico. Brock has co-authored 2 field guides for the Chiapas region and has implemented programs to train local birdwatching guides with the goal of preserving the Chiapas forests for our migrating birdlife; as well as contributing to an improved quality of life and social equality in Mexico by creating a financial incentive for local communities to preserve the forests.

World's largest eco-expo featuring green nonprofits, businesses and schools. Demos, speakers, live music, food, children's activities and films. Free.

Meet some of our live animal ambassadors up close and personal and make a beaded keychain to remember your experience. A different animal will be featured each session and participants may choose from different keychain designs. $5 per person (with paid admission).

10 - 11 a.m. 

1 - 2 p.m. 

3 - 4 p.m. 

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 ages 5 years and up a taste of the real deal. $5 per person, in addition to the regular gate fee ($5/vehicle, cash or check only). Registration is required by Dec. 29 at noon. Go to bit.ly/CoLRegistration or call 972-219-3550 to register.

"So You Think You Want Bees" is a beginner-level presentation provided by Trinity Valley Beekeepers Association for soon-to-be beekeepers in the Dallas area. This winter class is taught by Ryan Giesecke, president of TVBA. Ryan will talk through reasons to keep bees, considerations and concerns involved in urban beekeeping, and what can be done now to prepare for your upcoming first spring, as well as touching on hive styles and options for getting your first bees.