Pinellas County’s Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors, and enjoy a cool reprieve inside at hands-on exhibits that are available to the public free of charge.
Weedon Island Preserve
Numerous hiking opportunities continue at Weedon Island Preserve in June. Each Saturday beginning at 9 a.m., participants learn about the ecosystems and early residents of Weedon Island Preserve in these two-hour guided hikes. The hikes along the coastal uplands and along boardwalks through mangrove forests are best for ages 6 and older.
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Join the Great Weedon Bird Quest on Friday, June 14, to learn the identifying marks and behaviors of both feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This two-hour hike beginning at 8 a.m. recommended for adults is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available; advance registration required.
A two-hour Saturday, June 15, hike is a perfect opportunity for adult photographers to hone their skills. After a classroom session beginning at 8 a.m. highlighting specific wildlife behaviors and focus tips, guides will assist participants in capturing the natural beauty outdoors. Advance registration required.
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From 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, participants will learn about invertebrates and fish that make the waters of Weedon Island Preserve their home. Beginning in the classroom, then out in the field, the saltwater seining hikers will use dip nets and seine nets to collect and categorize local critters. Participants must be able to walk a mile round trip to the field sampling site. Bring closed-toed wading shoes (keens, scuba botties, old tennis shoes), also a water bottle, hat, sun protection and appropriate clothing that won’t be harmed if it gets wet. Advance registration required.
Pottery was a vital part of life in Florida for the past 3,000 years, but it is also an important clue for archaeologists today. For two hours, beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 1, the group will learn to identify different prehistoric pottery types from around Florida and the ways archaeologists use them to learn about people in the past. Advance registration required.
The popular rain harvesting class is scheduled for Friday, June 8, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Learn how to make and set up a rain barrel and save rainwater in a recycled plastic barrel. The collected water may be used for plant beds, potted plants and vegetable and herb gardens. The class is free, but there is an option to purchase a rain barrel for $25 with advance registration.
The Wee-Time at Weedon program is designed to introduce preschool children to the wonders of the natural and cultural world. Every second and fourth Thursday of each month from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. These free programs are recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Discover the secrets of scat on Saturday, June 15 in this 10 a.m. to noon presentation. Ever seen scat (animal droppings) while on the preserve's trails and wondered which species left it behind? Perhaps it was from a gopher tortoise, coyote or alligator. Wildlife biologists and naturalists use scat to determine species presence, habitat use, diet, health, and even population estimates. The presentation will allow participants to view a variety of preserved specimens. Advance registration required.
Join University of Florida/Extension natural resources agent Lara Miller as she discusses a relatively new resident to Pinellas County, the coyote. During this Saturday, June 29, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. presentation, Lara will explore the life history of the coyote as well as its ability to adapt and survive in urban environments. Learn more about this nocturnal creature and its presence in our area. Advance registration required.
To learn more about Weedon Island Preserve and its upcoming programs and events, call (727) 453-6500. To register for programs and events visit www.weedonislandpreserve.org. Videos featuring Weedon Island Preserve can be viewed at www.youtube.com/pcctv1.