Discover Nature Events

Birding is a fun way to get outside and grow familiar with the wildlife around you. This program will introduce you to the equipment of birding, choosing locations, and the field marking used to differentiate birds. If you have ever been curious about birding or want a refresher on the basics then this virtual program is for you.

Participants will receive the virtual program link at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the program. Please ensure your MDC account includes an accurate email address so that you can receive this link.

Let's hike the Homesteader Trail at the Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area near Branson. Meet at the Nature Center and carpool. Bring a lunch, water, and wear comfortable hiking shoes.

The hike is 4 miles and rated moderate to difficult. Ages 18 and up. Registration required.

Registration required (ages 8+) Enjoy a leisurely walk around the Discovery Center grounds, observing the birds that use this urban oasis of varied native gardens, trees and landscaped areas. The walk is guided by a Missouri Master Naturalist and Burroughs Audubon member. While geared toward the beginner, birders of all skill levels are welcome. During the walk, bird identification, including old school methods and current apps, will be covered, as well as life history and related citizen science opportunities. We'll meet in the lobby and dress for the weather. The walk will be on sidewalks and mixed natural surfaces over flat terrain. Bring binoculars if you have them, there will be a limited number of binoculars available for use. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Celebrate the season and exercise your creativity! Drop in to enjoy hands-on autumn crafting using natural and seasonal materials. All ages are welcome and no registration required.

Do your little ones enjoy being in nature? Appreciate the natural world through a story, songs, movement, and play as you sit under the canopy for a “nature” adventure. Come see the topic we are exploring this month, the fall migration and life cycle of salamanders in Missouri! Younger children and siblings are welcome. Meet the naturalist at the Stupp Center as we will be indoors but will have an activity outside; weather permitting.

Please register all children 2-7 for this program.

Enjoy coffee and learning about birds? Join us at Mingo NWR Visitor Center for Birds and Brew! This program will give you an opportunity to enjoy some bird friendly coffee, starting at 7:00AM, and at 7:30 AM we will hit the trail to explore the world of summer birds on a short walk on the Swampwalk (Boardwalk). The easy rated walk will be about a 1 mile long on boardwalk and asphalt trail surfaces. Bring your binoculars or a pair can be provided during the program. Registration is required. Any minor must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Learn about the history behind leather and the different techniques native american and europeans utilized to make leather for different products. We will be creating your own leather Knife sheath you will design it start to finish and learn valuable skills along the way. You will need to bring your own knife it can be a straight blade or a pocket knife whatever you prefer. If you need help registering please call the Twin Pines Conservation Center at 573-325-1381

If you have questions please contact me at Sarah.elrod@mdc.mo.gov

Ever wonder what to do with extra deer antlers that you've found or just don't want to get mounted after the hunt? Join us as we show you how to make your own deer antler free-form basket that you will weave and take home. Hopefully, you will be inspired to make more with the antlers you've been collecting.

Walk-in (all ages) Join a naturalist as we talk about how each season influences snake behavior in Missouri. We will uncover what snakes do in winter, when they are most active and discuss fun facts about these scaly critters. You many even have an opportunity to meet an ambassador snake during this program. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Walk-in (all ages) Join a naturalist as we talk about how each season influences snake behavior in Missouri. We will uncover what snakes do in winter, when they are most active and discuss fun facts about these scaly critters. You many even have an opportunity to meet an ambassador snake during this program. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.