Wildlife

When identifying birds, there are many things to consider such as markings, colors, behaviors and song. We will go over some bird identification terminology and help get beginning birders started identifying birds better. Program is approved for Texas Master Naturalists Advanced Training Hours. Maximum 15 participants.  Free (with paid admission-$2-$5).

Companion Class: Bird ID Field Trip Aug. 3.

Enjoy a field trip across the Fort Worth Nature Center and apply the knowledge you learned in the classroom on how to identify birds by their physical traits, behavior and song. We will survey different areas across the Refuge to find as many birds as possible. Program is approved for Texas Master Naturalists Advanced Training Hours. Preference will be given to participants of July 6 Bird Identification program. Maximum 15 participants. Free (with paid admission-$2-$5).

Tour a stretch of the West Fork of the Trinity River with kayaks. View ducks, herons, beaver and other critters. Sunscreen, water and weather appropriate clothing (including shoes that can get wet) are recommended. Kayaks, paddles and lifejackets are provided. Kayakers must be at least 14 years old and accompanied by their guardian, otherwise at least 18 years old. Some previous experience recommended. Registration ends Friday prior to event. Maximum - 8 participants. Meet at Little River Parking Lot. Pre-registration required. $20 (includes admission fee).

Enjoy an evening stroll on the Nature Center’s trails as we explore nature before nightfall. Evening provides a unique opportunity to view animals that make the Nature Center their home. Bring water and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Pre-registration required. Meet at Front Gate. $10 (includes admission fee).

Learn about the different types of animals which call the Nature Center home. From frogs to fish and snakes to snails, there are a wide variety of creatures that thrive in this protected habitat. Pre-registration required. $10 per child (includes admission fee). Wheelchair accessible.

Join a bilingual naturalist on a hike on the Refuge trails in search of interesting fauna and flora adapted to summer’s heat. Whether Spanish is your first or second language, this hike provides a great opportunity to learn or practice the Spanish language. Free (with paid admission-$2-$5).

See summer wildflowers at the Nature Center, including brown-eyed susans, blazing stars and lemon beebalms, adapted for the Texas heat. Free (with paid admission-$2-$5).

Meet venomous snakes of our area through pictures, stories and even a specimen. Learn to identify them and discuss how to stay safe when you're outdoors. You'll hear stories of encounters with all our venomous species, including rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, copperheads and coral snakes. Free (with paid admission-$2-$5).

Take a leisurely hike around the Nature Center to see birds beginning their day. This is the best time of the day to see our fine feathered friends. Bring your binoculars and camera to enhance your experience. Pre-registration required. 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 or Info@ConnemaraConservancy.org.