As chirpy as it gets in the chilly Minnesota winter, the Minneapolis Parks are calling all bird nerds and nature enthusiasts for a hands-on feathery experience. Strapping on their binocs, adults aged 16 and over are invited to play peek-a-boo with woodpeckers on Leap Year Day, which is on February 29 from 4:30-6 p.m., as they join a naturalist to uncover the secret lives of Minnesota's most fascinating winter birds. "Winter is a wonderful time to be on the lookout for the bright flashes of woodpeckers on the bare trees," said a naturalist from the Minneapolis Parks’ Neighborhood Naturalist program, according to their latest bulletin.
But wait, there's more for the birdwatchers and nature buffs. As spring unfolds its wings, the program is offering a series of birding events, catering to different age groups and interests. Whether you're 10 or 110, there's something in store. On March 23, majestic eagles are the stars at the Eagles at the River, perfect for anyone aged 10+, and waterfowl enthusiasts can dive in at Lake Hiawatha on April 11 for those strictly 18 and over. The Earth Week Intro to Birding on April 25 is another feather in the cap for adult birders wanting to celebrate spring and, nature, and all things bird.
Now don't think birding is where it ends. They've thought of everything including forest bathing for those who prefer trees over tweeters. Participants can immerse themselves in the calm of the forest, guided by a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide on April 24, which promises thoughtful invitations to help soothe the busy city soul.
For the tots trotting around, Nature Play Groups are offering playful and curious tots aged 1.5 to 4, along with their grownups, a chance to mess around the daily nature themes ranging from snowflakes to spring buds. The best part? You can expect to find a list of locations and pre-register for any of these events online, bringing educational outdoor fun to your doorstep.
Striving to create a bridge between Minneapolis citizens and the green around them, the Neighborhood Naturalist program by Minneapolis Parks takes pride in using "curiosity, joy, and community to empower learning," as per their published statement. Their Drop-in Discovery sessions are gratis, where families can join naturalists at the nature table, exploring and engaging with the wonders of the wild, no sign-up needed.
For more information on how you can get involved, scratch the curious itch, or simply soak up the nature around you, the Minneapolis Parks’ Neighborhood Naturalist program is just a call or click away. You can dial up the action at 612-313-7785 or visit their website through the Minneapolis Parks’ Bulletin for further details and online registration. Published on February 28th, keep your eyes peeled and calendars marked; the great outdoors is beckoning.
