Events

Look for book pages posted along Runge’s Naturescape trail and enjoy a seasonal children’s book as you walk and explore. Book begins at the trailhead across from the parking lot. No registration required. All ages.

Celebrate the Missouri Department of Conservation photographers and their ability to capture the ephemeral beauty of Missouri's flora, landscapes, and wildlife. 

*This is a Virtual Program*

Just getting into deer hunting, and looking for a first "deer rifle"? Or maybe a family member took you out as a kid and now it is time to buy a deer rifle of your own? Or are you the family member with the opportunity to take a youth out and you want a firearm that fits them?

With so many different firearms, chambered in even more cartridges, it can be tough to "pull the trigger" on just the right one.

In this program we will discuss the different factors to consider and also ask some basic questions to aim you in the right direction. Once you have the tools to make an informed decision, you can be confident in your choice, to be safe and successful this hunting season!

Join us online for a lively look at Missouri’s most surprising wildlife tricksters; species that use deception, disguise, and strategic behavior to survive. From walking sticks that mimic twigs to foxes that use misdirection while hunting, katydids whose calls confuse predators to crayfish that build false burrows, this session highlights the remarkable adaptations animals use to navigate the wild. This curiosity sparking dive into nature’s best “tricks” is perfect for anyone who enjoys discovering how wildlife outsmarts the world around them.

Cooler temperatures and southward migrations make fall a great time to go birding. Join a Runge naturalist for a leisurely, guided walk suitable for all experience levels and search for the many bird species at Runge. Binoculars and field guides are available for those that need them. Meet outside the nature center’s front doors. This program is all outdoors, so make sure to dress for the weather.

These animals are all tricks and no treats! This month, Little Acorns will learn about Missouri critters that hide, mimic, sneak, and surprise. From camouflaged insects, clever cowbirds, and other wild tricksters, these critters use smart survival skills to stay safe or catch a meal.

Join Runge staff and volunteers at the McClung Park indoor pavilion for a Runge in Your Backyard event.

Nature is full of creatures that fly fast, jump far, and climb quickly. They even help save the world with their superhero abilities! Through activities, exploration tables, and live animals, discover nature superheroes that can be found right in your backyard! Costumes encouraged but not required. All ages, no registration required.

These animals are all tricks and no treats! This month, Babes in the Woods will learn about Missouri critters that hide, mimic, sneak, and surprise. From camouflaged insects, clever cowbirds, and other wild tricksters, these critters use smart survival skills to stay safe or catch a meal.

With Halloween creeping closer, it’s easy to get caught up in the chills and thrills of the season. But what if the critters that give us the heebie-jeebies—like spiders, snakes, and bats—aren’t so scary after all? These eerie animals may look frightening, but they play essential roles in keeping Missouri’s ecosystems healthy and balanced. Join us for a spine-tingling journey into the world of Missouri’s misunderstood wildlife as we discover why these spooky species deserve more treats than tricks! Registration required. Be sure to include your email address. The presenter will send the program link both the day before and one hour before the program begins. All ages

Sweet name, sour story: invasive honeysuckle impacts on forested pond ecosystems

Fallen leaves represent the dominant energy source for many small wetlands under forest canopy, and therefore leaf traits such as nutrient content and decomposition rate are important in mediating energy flow. Invasive bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) is increasingly common in forests across the eastern U.S., with leaf traits that can alter the structure and function of aquatic ecosystems. This presentation will review some of the major impacts that leaves of honeysuckle and other invasive terrestrial plants can have on aquatic habitats.

The link to attend will be sent out to those registered closer to the date of the event.