16 minute read
NATURE PROGRAMS
Please register for programs directly on the website, AuroraGov.Org/Nature. To register for programs happening at the Plains Conservation Center, please go to: BotanicGardens.org/Plains-Conservation-Center
MORRISON NATURE CENTER AT STAR K RANCH
Time slots are available on a limited, firstcome, first-served basis. Programs are free unless otherwise specified.
STAR K KIDS
Ages 5 & younger Discover Aurora’s true nature through puppets, interactive activities and discovery time on the trail. Registration required. 40247 Aug. 5 40249 Aug. 12 40251 Aug. 19 40254 Aug. 26 41621 Sept. 2 41623 Sept. 9 41625 Sept. 16 41627 Sept. 23 41629 Sept. 30 41646 Oct. 7 41648 Oct. 14 41650 Oct. 21 41652 Oct. 28
Thu., 9:30-10:30 a.m.
40248 Aug. 5 40250 Aug. 12 40252 Aug. 19 40255 Aug. 26 41622 Sept. 2 41624 Sept. 9 41626 Sept. 16 41628 Sept. 23 41630 Sept. 30 41647 Oct. 7 41649 Oct. 14 41651 Oct. 21 41653 Oct. 28
Thu., 11 a.m.-noon NATURALIST NATURE WALKS & PROGRAMS: INSECTS OF AURORA – COLLECTING & CREATING A COLLECTION
Ages 8 & older Whether they are flying, crawling, or burrowing, insects add to the ambiance of any summer experience in the outdoors and are essential components of our wild habitats. Join us this summer at Star K Ranch as we search for, collect, identify, preserve, and create a permanent insect collection. 41631 Sept. 4 | Sat., 10:30 a.m.-noon • $2/per person
NATURALIST NATURE WALKS & PROGRAMS: COYOTE TALES
Ages 8 & older Coyotes are unique animals that have adapted to living among humans quite successfully. In addition to walking the Star K Ranch trails looking for signs of coyotes, spend the morning learning about their role within ecosystems, as well as the history and cultural significance of this Aurora resident. 41632 Sept. 4 | Sat., 2-3 p.m. • $2/per person
BOOKWORMS: A BOOKCLUB FOR NATURE ENTHUSIASTS
Ages 16 & older Calling all bookworms! Grab a copy of this month’s book club selection and join us as we dive into the book’s topic, themes, characters and more. We’ll discuss together and enjoy some time on the nearby nature trails.
The Songs of Trees: Stories from Nature’s Great Connectors by David George Haskell
IN-PERSON BOOK CLUB @ STAR K RANCH 40241 Aug 14 | Sat., 9-10:30 a.m.
Voices from Bears Ears: Seeking Common Ground on Sacred Land by Rebecca Robinson
IN-PERSON BOOK CLUB @ STAR K RANCH 41633 Sept. 11 | Sat., 3-4:30 p.m.
The Big Burn: Teddy Roosevelt and the Fire that Saved America
IN-PERSON BOOK CLUB @ STAR K RANCH 41657 Oct. 16 | Sat., 3-4:30 p.m. VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB 41658 Oct. 20 | Wed., 6-7:30 p.m.
NATURE PROGRAMS
NATURE AT NIGHT: LEGENDS OF THE STARS
Ages 2 & older Join us for an evening under the twinkling night sky. While on the trails, learn the traditional star patterns identified by different cultures, use your imagination to find shapes and patterns and let your mind wander through the wild galaxies. 40240 Aug. 20 | Fri., 8–9 p.m. • $2/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
TWILIGHT NATURE WALK
All Ages Experience the magical time in nature after sunset and before complete darkness as we look and listen for wildlife along the trail at Star K Ranch. 41634 Sept. 16 | Thu., 7:30-8:30 p.m. • $2/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
NATURE AT NIGHT
SPARKS IN THE DARK
Ages 2 & older From UFO’s to fireflies, light can be found in the night skies if you look for it. Nature has created many ways to produce light without electricity. Join a Naturalist to learn about this and create your own sparks while on the trail during this night walk. 41635 Sept. 17 | Fri., 7:15-8:15 p.m. • $2/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
SPOOKY CREATURES
Ages 2 & older A cracked twig, the sound of rustling bushes, and then... silence. Join us as we explore the creatures that make us jump, wince, and retreat. From bats to coyotes, this is sure to be a festive program, just in time for Halloween! 41659 Oct. 22 | Fri., 6-7 p.m. • $2/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
JUNIOR NATURALISTS
Ages 6-8 years Join us for a fun, educational experience in the outdoors as we learn about the natural environments found in Aurora.
WETLAND CREEPY CRAWLERS Anywhere you go you’ll find insects and arachnids. Join us to learn about how fascinating they can be! 40192 Aug. 21 | Sat., 9-11 a.m. • $2/per person HERPETOLOGY: AMPHIBIANS, REPTILES, OH MY! From snakes to salamanders, the world of herpetology is full of squirmy, scaly, and spectacular creatures. Join us as we explore the wetland in search of these unique creatures while using art to learn about their interesting adaptations and playing games to understand their important roles within our ecosystems. 41636 Sept. 18 | Sat., 1-3 p.m. • $2/per person BIRDS OF PREY Whoooo are the earliest nesters in Aurora? Great horned owls! What has a red tail and sharp talons? A red-tailed hawk! During this Junior Naturalists program, we explore the skies and learn about the birds of prey that call Aurora home. 41656 Oct. 16 | Sat., 9-11 a.m. • $2/per person
NATURE PROGRAMS
ART IN NATURE: EVENING OF THE ARTS
All ages Let the summer heat ignite your creative side as we play with various art mediums under the canopy of Star K Ranch’s cottonwood forest. Participants rotate through four stations and learn about local natural wonders while trying their hand at painting, drawing, sculpture and photography. 40632 Aug. 28 | Sat., 5-8 p.m. • $5/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
ART IN NATURE: OSTEOLOGY
Ages 12 & older Lines of leaves, colors of wings, textures of the landscape. Join a City of Aurora Naturalist for an artistic exploration of nature as we observe, learn, and sketch about bones on a guided hike. 41637 Sept. 26 | Sun., 9:30-11:30 a.m. • $2/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
NATURALIST NATURE WALKS & PROGRAMS: PEST OR PAL: WOODPECKERS
Ages 9-15 How do you know all woodpeckers love heavy metal music? Because they’re all head bangers! Join a naturalist in learning the positives about woodpeckers. 40238 Aug. 29 | Sun., 9:30-11 a.m.
FABULOUS FOODS OF FALL: NATURE EDITION
Ages 2 & older Fall is known for its fabulously tasty array of foods, but did you know that, without nature, we wouldn’t have this delectable bounty? Discover the history and role that Mother Nature plays in many of the fall foods we love to eat and enjoy some tasty samples! 41654 Oct. 8 | Fri., 5:30-7 pm. • $2/per person
NATURALIST NATURE WALKS & PROGRAMS: “THE PARASITE FILES – A WILD MYSTERY”
Ages 11-17 Something strange is happening at Star K Ranch.... is it a zombie outbreak or something else? Come prepared to use your science and detective skills to help naturalists solve the mystery. Lab scientist costumes encouraged but not required. 41655 Oct. 9 | Sat., 4:30-6:30 p.m. • $2/per person
FALL BREAK NATURE CAMP
Ages 6-12 Spend fall break exploring the wetlands & cottonwood forests of Star K Ranch! We’ll get our hands dirty with nature activities, learn about fall migration, hibernation, and explore the trails. Choose from one, two, or three fun-filled days! 41730 Oct. 12 41734 Oct. 13 41735 Oct. 14 • Tue., Wed., & Thu., 9 a.m.-noon • $10/per person/per day
TRICK OR TREAT NATURE TRAIL
All ages Halloween Town meets the Star K Ranch nature trails! Join the festivities as you trick-or-treat your way through the wetland loop. Experience spirited stations and learn about the spooky, creepy, and crawly animals that call Aurora home. Bats, owls, predators and sweet treats await! Costumes welcomed and encouraged. • Oct. 30 | Sat., 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. • Oct. 31 | Sun., 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
NATURE PROGRAMS
SENAC CREEK NATURE CENTER AT AURORA RESERVOIR
While attending programs at Senac Creek Nature Center, reservoir entry is free for the time of the program.
LITTLE NATURALISTS
Ages 5 & younger Discover Aurora’s true nature through puppets, interactive activities & discovery time on the trails at Aurora Reservoir. Registration required. 40228 Aug. 13 40229 Aug 27 41638 Sept. 10 41639 Sept. 24 41661 Oct. 8 41662 Oct. 22
Fri., 9:30-10:30 a.m. SUNRISE KAYAK ADVENTURE
Ages 12 & older Join us as we look for wildlife & watch the sun rise from a kayak on beautiful Aurora Reservoir. Kayaks, paddles and life jackets provided. 40230 Aug. 7 | Sat., 6:15-8:15 a.m. • $5/per person
SENAC SCIENTISTS
Ages 6-10 PAINT, PLANTS, & POLLINATORS Do you like to paint? Are you curious about insects and plants? Join us for a fun time in the field looking for insects and native plants. Use these unique summertime species as your inspiration to paint a masterpiece with paint brushes made of plant materials. 40232 Aug. 7 | Sat., 9:30-11 a.m. • $2/per person CRAWDAD CRAWL Come join us for the first Crawdad Crawl. In addition to learning about this fascinating and important crustation, observe their unique way of swimming and end the day by crowning the winner of the crawdad races! 40233 Aug. 14 | Sat., 9:30-11 a.m. • $2/per person NATIONAL WILDLIFE DAY Celebrate National Wildlife Day while learning about our local wildlife species! How can we ensure that these important critters are around for the long haul? Learn how to positively coexist with our feathery, furry & scaly friends. Ages 6-9: 41640 Sept. 4 • Sat., 10:30 a.m.-noon Ages 10-12: 41641 Sept. 4 • Sat., 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. • $2/per person GOURDS GALORE There’s more than just pumpkins to be found. Explore the different types of gourds, from edible to practical. Of course, jack-olanterns will make an appearance. Ages 6-8: 41663 Oct. 2 • Sat., 10:30 a.m.-noon Ages 10-12: 41664 Oct. 2 • Sat., 1-2:30 p.m. • $2/per person
Ages 8 & older Discover what’s blooming on the prairie at different times of the year while learning about native and non-native plants. This guided nature hike caters to novice wildflower lovers as well as seasoned plant enthusiasts interested in exploring the changing blooms near the reservoir. 40715 Aug. 8 | Sun., 8-9:30 a.m. • $2/per person
NATURE AT NIGHT: SUMMER EVENING NATURE WALK
Ages 2 & older Learn about local nocturnal species such as owls, beavers and bats while enjoying a summer evening nature walk at Aurora Reservoir. 40237 Aug. 11 | Wed., 7:30-8:30 p.m. • $2/per person
NATURE PROGRAMS
SUNSET KAYAK ADVENTURE
Ages 12 & older Join us as we look for wildlife and watch the sun set from a kayak on beautiful Aurora Reservoir. Kayaks, paddles and life jackets provided. 40231 Aug. 13 | Fri., 6-8 p.m. • $5/per person
EARLY MORNING BIKE RIDE
Ages 12 & older Experience the natural beauty around Aurora Reservoir on this interpretive bike ride. Bring your own bike or borrow one of ours. Helmets provided. 40234 Aug. 15 | Sun., 7-8:30 a.m. • $2/per person
BIRDS & BIKES
Ages 12 & older Do you enjoy riding your bike? Do you like birds and want to learn more about them? Join a city of Aurora Naturalist for a guided Birds & Bikes ride at Aurora Reservoir. Experience the scenic 8-mile trail around the reservoir while we learn about the diversity of bird species that call Aurora home. 40235 Aug. 29 | Sun., 8-10:30 a.m. • $2/per person
ART IN NATURE: WATERCOLORS
Ages 8 & older Become inspired by nature as we walk along the whispering grasses and listen for the melodies of summer. Use this inspiration to paint your blank canvas with smooth watercolors. Materials and tools provided. Participants can take their watercolor creations home. 40236 Aug. 29 | Sun., 6-8 p.m. • $5/per person
RIDIN AROUND THE RESERVOIR: SUMMER EVENING BIKE RIDE
Ages 8 & older Enjoy a scenic ride around beautiful Aurora Reservoir as the evenings cool and migratory birds start coming through. Bring your own bike or borrow one of ours. Helmets provided. 41642 Sept. 12 | Sun., 6-7:30 p.m. • $2/per person
FULL MOON HIKE
Ages 8 & older Hunter’s Moon Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history through this guided nature hike. 41665 Oct. 20 | Wed., 6-7 p.m. • $2/per person
NATURE CENTERS
Morrison Nature Center
Plains Conservation Center
21901 E. Hampden Ave. 303.326.8380 Mon.-Thur., 6:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Fri., 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. Sun., 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Senac Creek Nature Center
NATURE PROGRAMS
PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER
To register for programs happening at the Plains Conservation Center, please visit: BotanicGardens.org/Plains-ConservationCenter
FARM ANIMALS OF THE PRAIRIE
All ages Take a journey back through time and explore the essential role of farm animals to early pioneers on the prairie. Through four different classes, discover the animals, their roles in the lives of the pioneers, and the wildlife they had to contend with. Programs includes class content, a wagon ride to the sod village, and an opportunity to feed and interact with farm animals. $10 per person per class, no charge for children under 2 years old.
FARM ANIMAL 101 Come meet the PCC farm animals, learn about their breed, history and uses while feeding and learning to care for them. 40379 Aug. 1 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. 40380 Aug. 25 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. 40381 Aug. 27 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. • Sept. 19 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. • Sept. 22 | Wed., 5- 6:30 p.m. • Sept. 24 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m.
WORK AND PLAY ON THE PRAIRIE What was life like as a pioneer on the prairie? Dress up in costume (optional) while doing chores, including feeding the farm animals and playing games. 40382 Aug. 4 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. 40384 Aug. 6 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. 40385 Aug. 8 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. 40386 Aug. 29 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. • Sept. 1 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. • Sept. 3 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. • Sept. 26 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. SURVIVOR: PRAIRIE PIONEERS EDITION What did it take to survive as a pioneer on the prairie and how did the farm animals play into that? Learn about water access and conservation, reliance on the land, sustainable farming techniques and more. Recommended for young adults and adults. 40387 Aug. 11 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. 40388 Aug. 13 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. 40389 Aug. 15 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. • Sept. 5 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. • Sept. 8 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. • Sept. 10 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. WELL-ADAPTED WILDLIFE VS. DURABLE DOMESTIC ANIMALS: WHO IS BETTER SUITED FOR LIFE ON THE PRAIRIE? How did livestock compare to wildlife and how did pioneers deal with both? Learn what made domestic animals suited for life on the plains and how they compared with local wildlife. 40390 Aug. 18 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. 40391 Aug. 20 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. 40392 Aug. 22 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. • Sept. 12 | Sun., 9-10:30 a.m. • Sept. 15 | Wed., 5-6:30 p.m. • Sept. 17 | Fri., 5-6:30 p.m. • $10/per person/per program
NATURE PROGRAMS
JUNIOR NATURALISTS
Ages 9-12 Join us for a fun and educational experience in the outdoors as we learn all about the natural environments found in Aurora.
PRAIRIE CREEPY CRAWLERS Anywhere you go you’ll find insects and arachnids. Join us to learn about how fascinating they can be! 40191 Aug. 8 | Sun., 9-11 a.m. • $8/per person HERPETOLOGY: AMPHIBIANS, REPTILES, OH MY! From snakes to salamanders, the world of herpetology is full of squirmy, scaly and spectacular creatures. Join us as we explore the wetland in search of these unique creatures while using art to learn about their interesting adaptations and playing games to understand their important roles within our ecosystems. • Sept. 19 | Sun., 9-11 a.m. • $8/per person
BIRDS OF PREY Whoooo are the earliest nesters in Aurora? Great horned owls! What has a red tail and sharp talons? A red-tailed hawk! During this Junior Naturalists program, we explore the skies and learn about the birds of prey that call Aurora home. • Oct. 10 | Sun., 1-3 p.m. • $8/per person
FULL MOON HIKE
Ages 8 & older Sturgeon Moon @ PCC Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history through this guided nature hike. 40190 Aug. 22 | Sun., 7:30-9 p.m. • $5/per person Corn Moon @ PCC Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history through this guided nature hike. • Sept. 20 | Mon., 6:45-7:45 p.m. • $5/per person Hunter’s Moon @ PCC Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history through this guided nature hike. • Oct. 20 | Wed., 6:15-7:45 p.m. • $5/per person
BUTTERFLY WALK
Ages 8 & older Join us as we discover local butterflies. Learn how to identify common butterfly species found in Aurora and the plants they rely on. Bring your camera, binoculars and your enthusiasm for butterflies! 40415 Aug. 13 | Fri., 10:30 a.m.-noon • $5/per person
SUNDAY MORNING STROLL
All ages Immerse yourself in the subtle beauty and intriguing history of the high plains shortgrass prairie during this guided nature hike. • Sept. 19 | Sun., 8:30-10 a.m. • Oct. 17 | Sun., 8:30-10 a.m. • $5/per person, no charge for children under 2 years old
NATURE PROGRAMS
NATURALIST NATURE WALKS & PROGRAMS: PEST OR PAL: PRAIRIE DOGS
Ages 9-15 How does a prairie dog dig its tunnel so fast? The “hole” family helps! Join a naturalist in learning the important role that prairie dogs have in our ecosystems. • Sept. 25 | Sat., 9:30-11 a.m.
SUPERSTITION & MYTHOLOGY OF OWLS
Ages 8 & older Owls are one of Aurora’s most unique and well-loved birds. From their silent flight to their nocturnal hunts, these raptors have many spectacular adaptations. Join us as we take a closer look at the owl species of Aurora and the interesting superstitions and myths that surround them. • Oct. 23 | Sat., 10 a.m.-noon • $5/per person
STORIES AROUND THE CAMPFIRE: GHOST TALES OF THE PRAIRIE
Ages 8 & older Trick of treat! Become captivated (and a little spooked) as we tell ghost stories and roast marshmallows around the prairie campfire. • Oct. 29 | Fri., 6:30-8 p.m. • $5/per person
OPEN SPACE PROGRAMS
NATURE HISTORY SERIES: THE DISCOVERY OF GOLD
Ages 18 & older Take a hike and learn about the history of Aurora and the surrounding area when gold was discovered in the Rocky Mountains. 39810 Aug. 5 | Thu., 8-9:30 a.m. • Jewell Wetlands • $2/per person
BUTTERFLY WALK
Ages 8 & older Join us as we discover local butterflies. Learn how to identify common butterfly species found in Aurora and the plants they rely on. Bring your camera, binoculars and your enthusiasm for butterflies! 40193 Aug. 27 | Fri., 10:30 a.m.-noon • Pronghorn Natural Area • $2/per person
MORNING BIRD WALK
Ages 8 & older Join us to observe what birds are out and about in Aurora this summer. 40195 Aug. 14 | Sat., 8-10 a.m. • Pronghorn Natural Area
As summer turns to fall, join us to observe what birds are migrating to and from Aurora. 41643 Sept. 11 | Sat., 8-10 a.m. • Horseshoe Park
Enjoy the beginnings of autumn as we walk the trails at Utah Park and observe Aurora’s beautiful birds. 41660 Oct. 9 | Sat., 8-10 a.m. • Utah Park
FULL MOON HIKE
Ages 8 & older Sturgeon Moon Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history through this guided nature hike. 40194 Aug. 22 | Sun., 7:30-9 p.m. • $2/per person • Pronghorn Natural Area Corn Moon Discover Aurora’s true nature under the light of the full moon and learn a little about its history through this guided nature hike. 41644 Sept. 20 | Mon, 6:45-7:45 p.m. • $2/per person • Pronghorn Natural Area
