Discover Nature Events

Read a picture book as you walk along the Nature Center trails. The StoryWalk®, available June 17-30, is provided in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Library. All ages. No registration required.

Discover the art of needle felting while creating an adorable box turtle sculpture from wool fibers. Guided by step-by-step instructions, participates will add featuring details based on the adaptions of our state reptile, the Three toe box turtle.

This is a beginner-friendly program, great for teens and adults of all skill levels. All materials and tools will be provided. Each participant will leave with a felted turtle and skills to continue needle felting for future projects. We will be outdoors under a sunshade. Directions and parking detail will be emailed a week before the program.

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. This month we'll identify and manage summer native plants and warm season annuals. Visit the Deep Roots KC website to learn more. If accommodations are needed, please e-mail the instructor at least one week prior to the program.

Did you know Missouri is home to eels? Learn about this elusive species and their incredible journey from the ocean to Missouri waters. Ages 3 to 6. Registration required.

Did you know Missouri is home to eels? Learn about this elusive species and their incredible journey from the ocean to Missouri waters. Ages 3 to 6. Registration required.

Discover the colorful world of summer birds right outside your door! This beginner-friendly program will introduce participants to common backyard species through their shapes, songs, and behaviors, with tips for spotting birds even in the heat of the summer. Attendees will also learn simple, impactful ways to support birds like providing water and selecting bird-friendly landscaping. Whether you’re brand new to birding or looking to sharpen your ID skills, this session helps you connect with the wildlife that shares your neighborhood.

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.