Events

Mammals are marvelous warm and fuzzy critters, but what makes them unique from other animals? Join us virtually in learning all about the mammals that call Missouri home. Registration required. All ages invited, however, material covered is geared for adults. Be sure to include your email address in your registration. Presenter will email the program link to participants both the day before and day of the program.

Join us as we celebrate the holidays with light refreshments and holiday activities for young and old alike. Learn how to recycle last year’s Natural Event Calendar into this year’s holiday gifts. Enjoy an evening of crafting a variety of nature ornaments to take home. The Wildcat Glades Nature Group Nature store will be open for shopping, so you can find that perfect gift for the nature-lover on your shopping list. Stop by anytime!

Join us for a novice squirrel hunting clinic. Day one will occur at Burr Oak Woods, and will include a classroom presentation over hunting basics, etiquette, ethics, regulations, firearm handling and safety, squirrel cleaning, preparation, and more. Day two will be at Lone Jack Lake Conservation Area. Directions will be given during the day one meeting so participants know where to meet on the morning of day two. During the hunt on day two, participants will be partnered up with a mentor that will stay alongside them for the duration of the day. If squirrels are harvested, a hands-on cleaning demo will occur at the conclusion of the event.

All participants must have necessary permit(s) and Hunter Education Certification to attend.

Who’s that hooting it up each December evening?? Owls that’s who. You will learn what makes them such effective nighttime hunters and why they hoot so much this time of year. We will then take a short walk and see if we can entice any owls to fly in and talk to us. Dress appropriately since we will be outside part of the time.

Deck the halls with boughs of holly…the holidays are just around the corner and we’re in the mood to decorate! We’ll use nature’s resources to create wonderful winter wreaths, swags, and garlands. You provide a grapevine wreath (you choose the size and shape you want), and we’ll provide everything else to do your decorating. Grapevine wreaths can be found online or at local craft stores.

Sessions are 2 hours long. Tools will be provided (pruners, pliers, and wire cutters). Some gloves will be available, but you may want to bring your own leather or garden gloves. You may bring your own tools if you wish.

Only registered participants may attend program.

*Lesson 1 is not required to attend lesson 2*

Welcome to the first ever “All About Trout,” program put on in the St. Louis region. This is a Traditional fishing class, meaning we will be using traditional “Ultra-Light,” fishing gear and lures to fish for Rainbow Trout. If you are wanting to try Fly-Fishing, we have plenty of fly-fishing classes throughout the fall and winter months!

In Lesson one we will be introducing you to trout as a species, going over the history of trout in Missouri, the gear/techniques we use to catch them, the identification/use of trout bait, handling the trout, and hands on fishing.

In lesson two we go over Trout habitat, life cycle, wildlife regulations and their importance, the difference in ribboned trout streams/special use areas, fish handling overview, lure identification/use, and hands on fishing.

This is a fishing event in the cold fall/winter months! Be sure to come prepared with water, snacks, and very warm clothing (Winter jackets, pants, hats, etc.) Closed-toed shoes are required. Gloves are optional but highly recommended!

Join us to learn the basics of the care and cleaning of handguns. This program will include tips and techniques for all aspects of maintenance of your firearm. Bring the owner's manual, if you have it. You may bring your own unloaded firearm and magazines to class or use ours. DO NOT bring any ammunition into the classroom .

Join us to learn about cooking all sorts of wild game including rabbit, squirrel, deer and turkey. We will be looking at how to prepare good meals out of different game animals. We will also share some recipes that will make your mouth water. Feel free to have your favorite wild game recipe to share.

Join us to learn about cooking all sorts of wild game including rabbit, squirrel, deer and turkey. We will be looking at how to prepare good meals out of different game animals. We will also share some recipes that will make your mouth water. Feel free to have your favorite wild game recipe to share.

Start your morning with a naturalist and learn the basics of winter bird identification while enjoying a hot cup of java! After a classroom introduction to Missouri’s winter birds, follow the naturalist on a winter bird walk to put your new skills to the test! Hot water and tea will also be provided. Be sure to dress for the weather. Registration required. Ages 12+