Get Outside

Ways to connect with nature.

• Off With The Old - Go shed hunting! White-tailed bucks shed their antlers this time of year, so head out to the woods and you might find a trophy.
• Count Hawks on the Highway - Look for red-tailed hawks along the highway. They like to perch along the roadside this time of year, keeping an eye out for dinner. How many can you spot?
• Southeast Region, Fishing Skills: Youth Trout Fishing - Saturday, Jan. 20 • 10 a.m.–noon Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center 2289 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 Registration required, call 573-290-5218 by Jan. 20 Ages 7–15 Join us to discover nature as we catch and release rainbow trout. The clinic will begin with a discussion of how the types of bait and tackle differ from the common fishing pole setup, as well as regulations and locations to fish for trout. Then we will travel to Rotary Lake to give everyone a chance to experience catching and releasing trout. Parent or guardian must attend. All equipment will be provided.
• Northeast Region, Clarksville Eagle Days - Saturday, Jan. 27 • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 28 • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lock and Dam 24, The Apple Shed, and River Front City Park in Clarksville. No registration required. Call 660-785-2420 for more information.All ages, families Missouri’s winter eagle watching is spectacular! Join us in Clarksville to view our national symbol in the wild. Bring winter outdoor clothing, camera, and binoculars (optional), family, and friends.
• Oh, Baby! - Fox and gray squirrels are having babies. You may catch a glimpse of these bundles of furry joy in their nests high in the treetops.
• Take Cover - Recycle yourChristmas tree.Anchor it in apond and providehabitat for fish,or put it besidea birdfeederand make coverfor wildlife.
• Signs of Spring - Watercress greens around springs and Ozark witch hazel begins blooming after a few days of warm weather. Can you find these early indicators of spring?

Natural Events To See This Month

• Here’s what’s going on in the natural world.
• Horned larks flock in open fields
• Long-tailed weasels in north Missouri may turn white or pale brown Watch for mourning cloak or comma butterflies on warm days.

Hiked It... Liked It!

Hiking is a great way to get out and discover nature. It’s good for your health, and it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and ability levels.

How To Prepare

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Plan to layer your clothing
• Pack water and a light snack

Bring

• Camera and binoculars
• Guides to identify birds, tracks, and wildflowers
• Family and friends
• For more information and to find a trail near you, visit mdc.mo.gov