Discover Nature 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.

Birding is a fantastic way to get into nature this summer! In the trees, in the bushes, and in the water, birds are everywhere when we look. Join us for some birding at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and learn about our summer resident birds and common birding apps. Then take a chance to borrow binoculars for a trip around our trails. This class is for beginners interested in birding but haven’t committed to buying binoculars or find it difficult to identify birds.

From the smallest of hummingbirds to giant ostriches, birds are the only living animals with feathers! Discover how important they are, and all the other wonderful things that feathers do for our avian friends! This virtual presentation will cover the different types of feathers and feather anatomy. The instructor will send a link via e-mail the day before and the day of the presentation.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/curious-by-nature (adults) The Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) began in 1989 amid concerns over the effects of clearcutting forests on songbird populations. Thirty-seven years later, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has studied how common forest management practices impact flora, wildlife, soil health and other ecosystem components. Take a virtual hike through Peck Ranch with MDC forester and district supervisor, Mike Keeley. Together we'll dive into the data of best woodland management practices and what the future holds for this study.

Step into the glowing world of fireflies and discover the magic behind their flickering lights. In this interactive virtual program, participants will explore the fascinating diversity of firefly species, learn how these tiny insects use the light to communicate, and uncover surprising facts about their behavior. Perfect for curious minds of all ages– no bug spray required!

This program is a repeat for anyone who is interested but missed it.

**Please note a reminder email with a link to the Webex will be sent 24 hours prior to the event. A second email will also be sent once registration closes to ensure you receive the Webex link. Please be sure to check spam folder.

65 million years ago, you might have stepped out your door and heard.... ROAR!!! Looking up, you might see a dinosaur. Today, dinosaurs are extinct, but their descendants still live among us. Learn all about this modern-day dinosaur and how it goes "tweet, tweet" instead of roar at your local library.

65 million years ago, you might have stepped out your door and heard.... ROAR!!! Looking up, you might see a dinosaur. Today, dinosaurs are extinct, but their descendants still live among us. Learn all about this modern-day dinosaur and how it goes "tweet, tweet" instead of roar at your local library.

Visit MDC's information booth to learn more about our public lands and bodies of water! We will have information to help you learn about opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, and other outdoor recreational activities!

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/discover-native-gardening (adults) It's one thing to read about native plants and another to get your hands dirty! Learn seasonal gardening skills, be empowered and grow community alongside native plant experts and enthusiasts. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor after registering and at least one week prior to the program.

Discover some of Missouri’s most dazzling insects in the sky—dragonflies! These shimmering aerial acrobats are not only beautiful to watch, but also amazing hunters and important indicators of healthy wetlands. Explore the secret lives of dragonflies; how they grow from water-dwelling nymphs into swift, jewel-like flyers. Participants will design and create their own mini dragonfly poured paint ornaments!