Wildlife

The nation’s largest ongoing citizen science project is held annually between Dec.14 to Jan. 5. Participants follow specified routes through a designated 15-mile diameter circle, counting every bird they see or hear all day. Results are compiled by the National Audubon Society to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. 

Below are a few Christmas Bird Counts on Dec. 17 in North Texas. Or check with your local Audubon or Texas Master Naturalist chapter. You can also organize your own! 

North Dallas 

Begun in 1935, this holiday event draws area children into the Garden to share a little holiday gift-giving with our feathered friends. Children bring homemade, biodegradable bird feeders to hang in the trees of the Botanic Garden’s “Grove.”  (Children need to BRING these treats to the Garden rather than make them on site.)  Recipes for feeders are available at the Garden Center’s information desk and on the Garden’s website. Santa and Mrs.

Please bring your favorite work gloves, shovel, litter picker upper, or gardening tools. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather and for working in a natural area (long pants, long sleeves, sturdy shoes, hat). Water and snacks will be available. O.S. Gray Natural Area has no restroom facilities, but Kroger is nearby.

Info: friendsofosgray@gmail.com

Enjoy an old-fashioned hayride to the bison range where you will get to see the bison up close 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. Meet at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center. Pre-registration required.
$15. 3 years and older (with paid admission). Under 3 years old free but child must sit on adult’s lap.

10am-11:30am and 1-2:30pm Nov. 22-23.

Join us after hours as we learn about virginia opossum natural history, adaptions, and ecological importance as we explore their preferred habitats on a walk. A better understanding of this amazing nocturnal animal will leave you with a greater appreciation for this urban dweller. Meet at Front Gate. Pre-registration required. $10 (with paid admission).

Join a naturalist on a walk through the woods and experience the forest and the changes that occur in the fall. Meet at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center. Free with paid admission.

Learn what to do when you see a bobcat or coyote in your neighborhood. Find out how to keep pets safe. Discover why bobcats and coyotes are thriving in urban areas. Free. 

Join the DFW Pig Parents for the 2nd annual pumpkin drop at Atlasta Home Sanctuary. Read more about Atlasta Home Sanctuary in GreenSourceDFW.

Combined meeting of Fort Worth and Dallas Chapters. Info: Leigh Ann Ellis, laellis55@aol.com or 214-321-7159

Pull up a chair at our cozy campfire. Watch the sun set and the stars appear as you enjoy traditional campfire fun: stories, songs, and of course, s’mores! $10/person (or $30/family). Call 972-219-3550 for details regarding special pricing for families of 4-6 people. Registration is required online by Friday, Nov. 4, 11 a.m. at bit.ly/CoLRegistration (search activity code 800006).