Nature Centers and Parks Activities


Accokeek Foundation, 3400 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, Maryland 20607, 301-283-2113,
www.accokeek.org

Audobon Naturalist Society of the Central Atlantic States, Inc. Woodend Sanctuary, 8940 Jones
Mill Road Chevy Chase, MD 20815 www.audubonnaturalist.org

Nature Preschool Open House, Saturday, February 4, 9:30-11 a.m. No RSVP required; children are encouraged to attend. NOW accepting applications for the 2012-2013 school year.

Lil’ Sprouts: Textures, Colors and Sounds, Oh My! Friday, February 24: Shape n’ Roll. 10am. Ages 18 months-3 years olds, with adult Join in this wacky, fun-filled class where you’ll explore nature using different senses. This winter series is designed for young children and their caretakers. In each class play games, do crafts, and explore the outdoors. Sign up for one or all! Registration required. Members $10; nonmembers $12. Each additional program $8 for members; $10 for nonmembers

Free Family Program Winter Woodpeckers, Saturday, February 25, 1-2pm Can you drill a hole in a tree with your nose? Is your tongue sticky at the end? Do you eat insects? If so, then you may be a woodpecker! Come to Woodend to explore the amazing adaptations of woodpeckers and then search for our local winter woodpeckers and their holes. Registration required. All ages welcome but activities are geared for children ages 4-8, accompanied by an adult

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, Grays Road, Prince Frederick, MD Phone: 410-535-5327, www.calvertparks.org/Parks/CypressSwamp/CShome.htm

Kids 'N' Critters - Who’s Been Here? Thursday, February 2 from10:00-11:30 a.m. and Saturday, February 4 from10:00-11:30 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 with adult. How can we tell what animals have been visiting us? Sometimes they leave behind clues that we can discover if we know what to look for. Come try your hand a being a nature detective! Dress for the weather. Reservations are required. Fee per child: $3.00 ; BCNES members $1.00

Pizza and Program - What Big Teeth You Have! Friday, February 3, 6-8pm. Take a big bite of pepperoni pizza and let your teeth go to work. Then examine some teeth of our animal specimens. Find out how teeth work, and how you can determine who eats what by their teeth. Handle actual animal skulls to get an up-close look at their chompers! Fee: $5.00/3:00 BCNES members, per person/under age 2 free

Nature Puppet Playtime - Teddy Bear Tea Party, Monday, February 6, 10am. For children 18 months to 5 years. Bring your teddy bear or another stuffed animal friend to the nature center for a "tea party." You can get dressed up (maybe not in your best clothes though) or play dress-up while you're here. Enjoy warm drinks and cookies and go for a walk with our stuffed friends. Reservations are required Fee: $3.00/ BCNES members $1.00

Nature Tykes - Maples Make Syrup, Thursday, February 9 at 10am and Saturday, February 11 at 10am. Ages 18 months to 3 years, with adult. The maple tree is a very special tree. It makes sweet sap that people use to make syrup! Learn which animals besides people like maple sap and then try to identify a maple tree outside. Go for a hike to find the maple trees we have tapped and sample some sweet maple syrup! Reservations are required Fee per child: $3.00, BCNES members $1.00

Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD Phone: 301-916-0220, www.montgomeryparks.org/nature_centers/blackhill/index.shtm
Registration is required for these programs.

Groundhog Day Celebration! February 2, 10am and 1pm. Celebrate our whimsical weather-forecasting friend with stories, songs, coloring pages, and a groundhog craft. We'll check a real groundhog burrow to look for activity. Ages 2-17 ; FOBH $4/$5.

Night Hike: Black Hill Regional Park, February 6, 6pm. Take a 1-mile hike by the light of the full moon. We'll look and listen for creatures that are most active at night. Ages 8+; FOBH $4/$5.

Birding Basics for Families, February 11, 9:30am. Come and learn how to identify some of the more common birds you see in your neighborhood and in the parks. Ages 4+; FOBH $4/$5.

Feeling Flaky, February 11, 1pm. Learn all about snow and create some flaky crafts. Children under 8 need an adult helper. Register children only. Ages 2-12 ; FOBH $5/$6.

Time for Tots: Have a Heart Hike, February 14, 10am. Wish wildlife Happy Valentine's Day by leaving them tasty treats. For each treat you leave, you get a heart sticker! Ages 18-36mo; FOBH $4/$5.

Waterfowl Viewing at Sunset, February 15, 4:30-6pm. Come for waterfowl viewing off the back deck of the Visitor Center! They'll provide scopes, binoculars, and hot cocoa. Ages 8+; FOBH $5/$6.

Nature's Explorers, February 16, 1:30pm. Homeschooled children are invited to learn about different seasonal aspects of nature and science. Ages 6-12 ; FOBH $5/$6.

Wintering Birds at Black Hill, February 18, 8am. Meet at the visitor center for an introduction to the birds that spend the winter at Little Seneca Lake. After viewing the lake from the deck, we’ll carpool to other good viewing areas around the lake. Spotting scope provided. Volunteer Naturalists: Tim Gier and Barb Kreiley 8:00 - 10:00 am FOBH $3/$4

An Evening with Flying Squirrels, February 18, 6pm. After a brief talk about flying squirrels and their habits, walk to the woods to spy for these elusive critters as they glide down to eat. Volunteer naturalists: Karen and Ed Escalante, or park naturalist. Ages 6+; FOBH $3/$4.

Family Day at the Visitor Center, February 20, 1-4pm. School's off today, so bring the kids to the Visitor Center for an afternoon of nature fun. Friends of Black Hill Nature Programs will be on hand to show you how to use the popular nature boxes, and volunteer naturalists will lead short nature walks with hands-on activities and games. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 pm for the fun! Program is free, but please register so they'll have enough materials and help for all. Ages 1+; Free.

Storytime: Snug in the Snow, February 22, 10am. What kinds of animals burrow in the snow to keep warm over winter? Come find out! Ages 3-5 ; FOBH $3/$4.

Woodpecker Watch, February 23, 10am. Hear a woodpecker story, visit the forest and log garden to look for them, and make a treat for woodpeckers in our own yards. Ages 3-5 ; FOBH $5/$6.

Owls in Winter Campfire, February 25, 7pm. Gather around the campfire for warmth and listen for the songs of owl romance. They'll tell owl tales and enjoy a toasty treat. All Ages; FOBH $4/$5.

Leap Year Animal Olympics, February 29, 4pm. It's Leap Day! Can you leap like a frog, wriggle like a snake or run like a deer? Test your skills on the animal Olympics trail. Ages 2-12 ; FOBH $4/$5.

Bladensburg Waterfront Park 4601 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg MD Phone: 301-779-0371, www.pgparks.com

19th Century Prince George's County, Saturdays, February 4, 11, 18 & 25, 10 am-12 noon, for all ages. Free. Step out of the ordinary and come learn about a day in the life of an average Prince Georgian 200 years ago. This program includes a multimedia presentation and an interactive display of games, toys, and artifact reproductions. Light refreshments will be served. Space is limited; reservations required in advance.

Brookside Gardens, 1500 Glenallan Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902, Phone:301-949-8230
www.mc-mncppc.org/parks/brookside

Children’s Discovery Benches, Hands-on activities, games, books, and puzzles fill the Children’s Discovery Benches located in the Children’s Classroom. Open Tuesday through Friday based on staff availability. September through June, 2:00-5:00pm

Flower Buds, Monday, February 13, 10:30am – 11:30am. Visitors Center Children’s Classroom. Come on the second Monday of each month for gardening activities, stories, crafts and garden walks for children ages 3-5 accompanied by a parent. Fee: $5 per child (adult free). Register online

Brookside Nature Center, 1400 Glenallen Avenue, Wheaton, MD Phone: 301-946-9071 www.montgomeryparks.org/nature_centers/brookside/ Registration is required for these programs. Register at ParkPASS.org

Moonwalk, February 3, 7:30pm. Experience the forest by moonlight. We'll learn about earth's satellite and how it affects life on our planet as we scan its wintry craters and seas through our binoculars. Ages 5+; $2.

Fox Family in Winter, February 4, 11:30am. Find out what fox families do in winter, and look for dens and tracks on this half-mile hike. Ages 4+; $5.

Sparkling Snowflakes, February 4, 3pm. Find out about plates, columns and graupels, discover how people study snow, and how "Snowflake Bentley" took his first snow crystal photograph. Make a sparkling snowflake to take home, too! Ages 2+; $3.

Brookside Tot Times: The Red Scarf, February 8, 10:30am. What happens when animals find a red scarf left in the meadow? This lively puppet show will highlight the winter season and help our young audience learn about nature. Ages 2-3 ; $2.

Weeds in Winter, February 11, 2pm. Although devoid of color and scent, winter weeds have a charm and useful-ness we'll discover on this botanical foray. Ages 7+; $5.

Sunday Pre-K Nature Storytimes, February 12, 3pm. Join their volunteers on the second Sunday of each month for an exciting and educational story about different kinds of plants and animals. If the weather's nice, take a short walk, too. Ages 3-6 ; FREE.

Wildlife Valentines, February 14, 1:30pm. Make a gift for the Nature Center's wildlife on Valentine's Day. Find out what kinds of food help get animals through the winter, and look for the places where they hunt, graze and gather. Ages 3-5 ; $6.

Marvelous Maples, February 16, 1:30pm. Tour the Sugar Bush and taste some home-made maple syrup, then visit the log cabin to see what life was like when settlers relied on maples for food and shelter. Ages 3-5 ; $5.

Feed the Birds! February 18, 10am. What do birds eat for a mid-morning snack? Not Cheerios, that's for sure! Find out as you help fill the feeders, learning our seed eaters' taste prefer-ences, names and behaviors in the process. Ages 1+; FREE.

Maple Sap Collecting, February 22, 4pm. Find out how we tap our maple trees and help us collect maple sap for our boiling pan. Ages 3+ ; $5.

Brookside Tot Times: Maple Syrup! February 23, 10:30am. Maple sugaring just for toddlers (or, "What is that sticky stuff and where does it come from?") Ages 2-3 ; $5.

Maple-iscious Day, February 25, 1-4pm. Drop in and learn about maple syrup and maple trees at indoor discovery stations. Trace a maple leaf, sample some maple sugar, make a mukluk, and much more! Registration appreciated. A $2 donation per person at the door will be much appreciated. Ages 1+.

Maple Sugar Festival, Sunday, February 26, 10a.m to 4 p.m. Stop by to see an American tradition! Watch the whole process from start to finish. See sap drip from the trees and taste it, watch us boil it down into sweet maple syrup), and then sample a tasty treat! $5 per person. Register at ParkPASS.org.

Carrie Murray Nature Center, 1901 Ridgetop Road, Baltimore, MD 21207, Phone: 410-265-0808, www.carriemurraynaturecenter.org

Me and My Shadow, Saturday, February 4, 12-2pm. What is Groundhog Day all about? Why does it matter if Puxatony Phil sees his shadow or not? Learn all about the meanings of shadows while learning how to make some really cool animal shadow puppets. Depending on the weather, we may also make shadow dancers! Please pre-register. No pets please. Registration is $2 per person.

Share the Love, Saturday, February 11, 12-2pm. During midwinter, when food is scarce for wildlife, why not show some love for backyard birds while decorating your yard for Valentine’s Day? Make cheerful, heart shaped decorations that can be eaten by birds and are made with ingredients you may already have or can easily pick up at your local supermarket. Hang them up outside and it’s a great opportunity for bird-watching when your feathered friends come to snack on the treats! Please pre-register. No pets please. Registration is $4 per person.

Catoctin Mountain Park, 6602 Foxville Road, Thurmont, MD 21788, Phone: 301- 663-9388, www.nps.gov/cato/

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center, Wildfowl Trust of North America, 600 Discovery Lane, Grasonville, Md. 21638, Phone: 410-827-6694, www.bayrestoration.org/index.html

City of Baltimore Recreation and Parks, 3001 East Drive, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217, www.baltimorecity.gov/recnparks

Clearwater Nature Center, 11000 Thrift Road, Clinton, MD Phone: 301­297­4575, www.pgparks.com

Live Animal Show, Saturday, February 11, 10am. Ages 2 and up. Come out and see some of the nature center's live animals. You'll have a chance to touch a snake, turtle, toad, and other animals that reside at the center. To guarantee a spot in a program, advance registration for each participant is required through SMARTlink. Drop-in admission (no registration) is accepted only as space permits and is not guaranteed. Fee is $2 for PG County Resident and $3 for non-resident.

Family Campfire, Saturday, February 25, 1-2:30 pm, 2 & up - All participants must meet the age requirement to attend the program. Come enjoy an afternoon nature program while roasting marshmallows. Roasting sticks and marshmallows will be provided. You may bring your own hot dogs and drinks if you like. Please dress for the weather. This program is held outdoors and is weather dependent. Program may be canceled due to steady rain or high winds. To guarantee a spot in a program, advance registration for each participant through SMARTlink is required. Drop-in admission (no registration) is accepted only as space permits and is not guaranteed. Program may be canceled 24-48 hours prior to the start of the program due to insufficient SMARTlink registrations. Fee is $3 for PG County resident and $4 for non-resident. Timberdoodle Hike, Saturday, February 25, 5-6:30 pm. Ages 6 & up - All participants must meet the age requirement to attend the program. Join a naturalist for a hike to see the spectacular courtship display of the "Timberdoodle" or American Woodcock. This mysterious bird reliably performs a spiraling flight display shortly after sunset. Please dress for the weather. This program is held outdoors and is weather dependent. Program may be canceled due to rain. Advance registration for each participant through SMARTlink is required. Drop-in admission (no registration) will not be permitted.

Home-School Science Program: Nature Friends, beginning Friday, February 3, 2-3:30 pm. 4-6 - A parent must accompany and assist their child in Nature Friends activities. Students will experience a series of four (4) in-depth nature classes that may use live animals, preserved specimens, artifacts, multimedia presentations, discussions, hikes, and other hands-on activities to explore the world of natural science. Class meets once a month: Fridays (2/3, 3/2, 4/6, & 5/4) Advance registration for each participant through SMARTlink is required. Drop-in admission (no registration) will not be permitted. Fee is $14 for PG County resident and $17 for non-resident.

Home-School Science Program: Nature Rangers, Beginning Friday, February 3, 2-3:30 pm, for ages 7-9 - Parents may drop their children off and return to pick them up after class. Students will experience a series of four (4) in-depth nature classes that may use live animals, preserved specimens, artifacts, multimedia presentations, discussions, hikes, and other hands-on activities to explore the world of natural science. Class meets once a month: Fridays (2/3, 3/2, 4/6, & 5/4). Advance registration for each participant through SMARTlink is required. Drop-in admission (no registration) will not be permitted. Fee is $20 for PG County resident and $25 for non-resident.

Cromwell Valley Park, 2002 Cromwell Bridge Road, Baltimore, MD 2123, Phone: 410-887-2503 www.cromwellvalleypark.org

Howling at the Moon, Saturday, February 4, 5-7pm. Have you ever noticed the moon during the day? What does the saying “once in a blue moon” mean? Who is the man on the moon? Learn the answers to these questions and much more exploring the phases of the moon. Make a flip book of the moon’s phases to take home with you. Go outside to gaze at the moon, so dress for the weather! Reservations required. Ages 6 - 10. $3 members/$5 non-members. Willow Grove Nature Education Center

Where’s the Woodchuck? Saturday, February 11, 2pm. Celebrate Groundhog’s Day at the Nature Center with a story and craft, then find out what the Park’s groundhogs and cousins are up to outside. Dress for the weather. Reservations required. Ages 4+. $2 members/$4 non-members. Willow Grove Nature Education Center

Fair Hill Nature and Environmental Center, 630 Tawes Drive Elkton, MD 21921, Phone: 410-398-4909, www.fairhillnature.org

Maple Sugaring, Saturday, March 5, 3:00pm - 4:00pm. Boil up a taste of real maple syrup from Fair Hill trees. Learn about the history of maple sugaring in America, how to "do it yourself", then enjoy some pancakes and maple sugar candies! Non-Member tickets: $5 Members: free. Pre-registration and Pre-payment are required for this event.

Flag Ponds Nature Park, 6 Route 4, Lusby, MD, Phone: 410-535-5327,
www.calvertparks.org/Parks/FlagPonds/FPhome.htm

Howard County Conservancy, 10520 Old Frederick Road, Woodstock, Maryland 21163-0175, Phone: 410-465-8877, www.hcconservancy.org

Wonder Talk: Squirmy Wormy Worms That Work: Kitchen Garbage to Top Soil – with Barb Schmeckpeper, Saturday, February 11, 10am. Free program for all ages.. Worms work miracles with their little bodies. Learn all about these amazing little animals. See how they transform the wastes of our planet into rich earth. Pet a worm and look for worm cocoons. And if you are adventuresome, learn how to create a little worm soil factory right inside your home. After the presentation and worm exploration time, Barb will conduct a workshop on how to create a successful worm bin. If you are interested in making one at the same time, please email Barb at bjschmeck@gmail.com to get a list of materials needed. If you bring the makings for a bin, she will show you how to drill the air holes and provide detailed instruction about what to feed the worms, how to make worm bedding and how to harvest the finished compost. And, for up to four families, she will stock your new worm bin with red wiggler worms.

Growing Up Wild with 173 Meadow and Woodland “Pets”, Sunday, February 26, 4pm. Author Twig George is daughter of Newbury Award Author Jean Craighead George (My Side of the Mountain, Julie and the Wolves, and 100 more). Twig will recount stories of growing up with Jean Craighead George and a wonderful menagerie that filled her with an appreciation of wildlife that continues to this day. With a house full of wild pets you might be awakened by a crow tapping on your window, take a shower with a screech owl and find a raccoon in your bed at night. Twig's mother would weave these adventures into her award winning books for children, 110 of them to date. She is 92 and still writing! Twig will also tell some of the stories behind her own books, and open the discussion up to questions from the audience. Fee is $10/family or $12 after Feb. 23

Irvine Nature Center, 11201 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117, Phone: 443-738-9200, www.explorenature.org

Tales and Tails! Every Friday, 10 – 10:45 a.m. For ages 4-8, free. Join Irvine for a few animal stories followed by an interaction with Irvine’s animal friends. Every Friday, it’s a different close-up, hands-on experience with an animal. Free!

Owl Moon, Saturday, February 4, 6-7:30pm, for ages 8 and up. Join a naturalist on a moonlit hike in quiet search of Maryland’s majestic owls. Before the walk, enjoy a reading of Owl Moon by Jane Yolan and meet one of Irvine’s resident owls. Free for members, $10 non-members

Tagalong Time, Tuesdays, February 7, 14 and 21, 10 – 11 a.m., Ages 2-3 with adult. Toddlers explore nature with their favorite adult during this three-week series. We will examine a new nature theme each week such as “Animal Hideaways” or “Snowy Day.” Puppet shows, live animal encounters, nature walks and art projects are all part of the fun! Sign up with your little cutie to discover the wonders of wildlife this winter! $45 members, $60 non-members

Cocoa Creations, Sunday, February 12, 1-2:30pm, for ages 6 and up. Winter is a time for enjoying many sweet treats, but did you ever wonder where hot cocoa comes from? Would you believe it has to do with a tiny fly, muddy pigs and a highly celebrated tree? Learn about the origins of cocoa and make a delicious chocolate treat to take home! Free for members, $10 non-members

Primary Election Day Off Camp, Tuesday, February 14, 9am – 3pm, for ages 6 -10.No school? Spend the day exploring the stream, searching under logs and learning about animal habitats. Children will take part in fun-filled activities including trail walks, games, crafts and animal encounters. Kids should wear nature-friendly clothing and bring a lunch. $50 members, $60 non-members (after-care available until 5 p.m. for an additional fee)

Maple Magic! Saturday, February 18, 1 – 2:30 p.m. OR Sunday, February 19, 1 – 2:30 p.m. OR Saturday, February 25, 1 – 2:30 p.m. OR Sunday, February 26, 1 – 2:30 p.m. There’s magic in the trees! Walk through Irvine’s woods in a quest to make delicious maple syrup. Learn how to identify maple trees, properly tap a tree to collect its sugary sap, and convert the sticky fluid into syrup using Irvine’s enormous evaporator. It’s the perfect way to follow up a great pancake breakfast! All ages. Free for members, $10 non-members. Sign up early, usually fills up.

Project Feederwatch Volunteer Training, Saturday, February 28, 2-3pm, for students of all ages. Interested in being part of a citizen science project? Irvine has given you a head start! In Project FeederWatch, you’ll help collect data for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology simply by observing which birds come to a bird feeder for a short time each week through April. Our naturalist will train you on bird identification, data collection and entry, and take you out to our feeders. Afterwards, there will be an opportunity to sign-up to be part of this nationwide study. A great opportunity for students of all ages!. Free!

Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD 20711, Phone: 410-741-9330 www.jugbay.org All ages welcome, but you must preregister to hike.

Family Discovery: Life of a Dead Tree, Saturday, February 4, 1pm – 3pm. Take a closer look at a dead tree to learn about its history. explore its rings and scars to learn more about what kind of life it lived and discover how useful a dead tree can be. All ages welcome.

Great Backyard Bird Count Training, Saturday, February 18, 10am – 12pm. Become a citizen scientist! People of all ages can join the fun of the annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC). Learn about our common backyard birds, how the GBBC collects data, then take a stroll to see some live wild birds. All ages welcome. Free entrance.

Kinderfarm Park 1001 Kinder Farm Park Road, Millersville, MD 21108, Phone: 410-222-6115 www.kinderfarmpark.org

Kings Landing Park Kings Landing Road, Huntingtown, MD, Phone: 410-535-2661 www.calvertparks.org/Parks/KingsLanding/KLPhome.htm

Patuxent Kids - Frozen Creek, Tuesday, February 7, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 with adult. If the waterways freeze over in winter, where do all the water creatures go?? Bundle up to explore frozen Cocktown Creek and look for traces of animals and their winter hideouts. Bring mom or dad. Warm drink and snack provided! Reservations are required. Fee per child: $3.00 ; BCNES members $1.00

Patuxent Kids – Sweet Trees, Tuesday, February 21, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Ages 3 to 5 with adult. The park staff has tapped the maple trees and are hoping for a good harvest of sap so they can make delicious maple syrup. The ranger needs your help as she gathers the sap and records the data. Wear warm clothes, be prepared for the weather. Bring a grown up to help and drink warm drinks and eat warm cookies when you come in from your work. Reservations are required. Fee per child: $3.00 ; BCNES members $1.00

Ladew Topiary Gardens 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton, MD 21120, Phone: 410-557-9570, www.ladewgardens.com

Nature Stories and Crafts, 10:30 -11:15 a.m. OR 12:30 – 1:15 p.m. for ages 2-5 years with one adult. Storytime at Ladew continues even after the gardens officially close to the public for the year. From November through March, come to in Ladew’ Studio for a morning or afternoon of interactive nature stories, followed by making a fun, take-home craft. Fee: $5 per child member; $10 per child non-member; one accompanying adult per child is free; includes admission to gardens & Nature Walk for the day. To register, contact Sheryl Pedrick at 410-557-9570, ext. 226 or spedrick@ladewgardens.com. Space is limited. Advance payment and registration is required.
Be My Valentine, Tuesday, February 14. Bring your little sweetheart out for a day for heart-warming stories, followed by a sweet valentine craft.
Whatever the Weather, Wednesday, February 29. Whether it's sunny, cloudy, snowy or dry, let's marvel at what's up in the sky. Then make your own weather wheel.

Maple Magic, February 19, 2-4pm, Can you smell it in the air? It’s maple sugaring time when maple tree sap begins to flow freely and we can make one of nature’s sweetest treats---maple syrup. Come experience the process of maple sugaring as you head out to Ladew’s Nature Walk to identify trees, observe tapped maple trees and collect some sap. Learn how to boil down the sap to make yummy, golden brown syrup. Tasty maple snacks will be provided. Admission is $10 Adults, $8 Seniors (62+), $8 Students and $5 Children (ages 2-12). Please call (410) 557-9570 to register

Lake Artemesia 8200 55th Avenue, Berwyn Heights 20740, Phone:301-627-7755, www.pgparks.com

Lake Artemesia Guided Hikes, Thursdays, February 2 & 16, 3-4:30 pm. Free. For all ages. Highlighted by a 38-acre lake, this unique urban park is a great place to watch for migratory birds. Walk along the Luther Goldman Birding Trail featuring interpretive signs. Midweek guided hikes are held the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month: September through March, 3–4:30 pm, and April through August 6–7:30 pm. Visit www.pgaudubon.org.

Locust Grove Nature Center 7777 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda, MD 301-299-1990, www.montgomeryparks.org/nature_centers/locust/

Woodpecker Walk, February 1, 10am. Learn about woodpeckers and listen and look for them tapping on trees. Ages 3-6; $5.

Full Moon Hike, February 7, 7pm. Come on out for a brilliant hike! Wander the woods by the light of a full moon and see what or who is out and about. Ages 5+; $2.

Maple Syrup Valentine's Treat, February 14, 11am-noon or 1-2pm. Have an extra sweet Valentine's Day as you learn about, and taste maple syrup. We'll visit our tapped maple trees, boil sap in the evaporator and sample different kinds of syrup. Ages 1+; $3.

Tot Time: Sounds, February 21, 10am. Did you hear that? Sounds can be subtle ....alarming...or music to our ears. We'll encourage both noise-making and listening as we explore the nature of sound. Ages 2-3yr; $5.

Feed the Birds! February 23, 11am. Late winter is hard for birds—seeds are running out, berries are dried or gone, and bugs are tucked deep in trees or underground. Come learn how to make healthy food for our feathered friends, to help see them through the last of winter. Ages 1+; $5.

Meadowside Nature Center 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD Phone: 301-924-4141, www.montgomeryparks.org/nature_centers/meadow Registration required unless otherwise noted.

Tyke Hike, February 1, 10:30am. Come and discover the bustling world around the Nature Center. Take a nature mini-hike and make a craft to take home

Maple Sugaring, Saturday, February 11, 9:30-10:15am. For ages 4 and up. Learn about this fun American tradition. Find out how maple syrup is made, from tree to bottle, then take a delicious syrup taste test!

Season for Sugar Snow, Thursday, February 16, 4-5:30pm. For ages 6-11. The sap is running in the maple trees and that means it's maple sugaring season. Come with your grandchild to learn about maple trees and the process of maple sugaring. Then taste some sweet syrup and make a maple craft to take home.

Which Beak Is Best? Wednesday, February 15, 1pm, for ages 4-6. Birds' beaks may be large or small, heavy or light, short or long. Each kind of beak is used for eating a particular type of food. Learn how birds use their beaks through stories, games, and a craft.

Tiny Talon Tales, February 21, 10:30am. Children will spread their wings as they listen to stories of raptors and see them come alive. Listen to a raptor-themed story, meet Meadowside's own raptors, and make a craft to take home

Knock, Knock—Woodpeckers! Wednesday, February 22, 10:30am, for ages 3-5. What is that knock-knock-knocking in the woods? Read a story, learn about these fascinating birds, and make a fun woodpecker-friendly feeder to take home.

My First Little House Books: Sugar Snow, Thursday, February 23, 10:30am, for ages 3-5. Laura and the Ingalls family look forward to late winter for maple sugaring! Learn about the process of maple sugaring through Laura's eyes, then experience it first-hand at Meadowside. End with a sweet taste of maple syrup!

Owls, Hawks & Eagle Lunchtime and Talk, February 25, 12pm, for ages 2 and up, free. Observe Meadowside's hawk, owl, vulture, and bald eagle during their feeding time and ask questions! Speak with a Naturalist about birds of prey, and learn some of the stories about the raptors on exhibit. These talks begin at the Raptor Walkway behind the Nature Center. No registration required

Is Spring Just Around the Corner? Tuesday, February 28, 1:30pm for ages 3-6. We'll read a story about frog and toad, and then take a hike to see if spring is just around the corner.

Mt. Rainier Nature Center 4701 31st Street, Mt. Rainier, MD 301-927-2163
www.pgparks.com/places/nature/rainier.html

Toddler Time at Mount Rainier, Thursdays, 10:30 am-12 noon, free, for ages 5 and under. Parents and toddlers can have fun at the nature center with hands-on treasures, crafts, stories, soft play, and more

Oregon Ridge Nature Center 13555 Beaver Dam road Cockeysville, MD 21030, Phone: 410-887-1815, www.oregonridge.org

Trail Guide Training. People who enjoy nature, children, and hiking are needed as volunteer Trail Guides for schools visiting during the year. Training takes place twice a year: (Spring 2012) February 7, 8, 9, and 10 (Fall 2012) September 4, 5, 6, and 7. Training is from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM each day; $25/person can be paid in advance or on the first day (totally refundable if one becomes an active trail guide). Trail Guide Training is an ongoing process throughout the year. If you cannot attend some of the above dates, please call for more information about alternative training methods. (Instructors Andi Musser, Courtney Peed, and Winny Tan) Please call 410-887-1815 to register.

Mys-Trees, February 4 & 5, 2-4pm. Investigate leafless trees to discover their identities. Make your own I.D. book too! Fee is $3 ($2 Members)

The Full Sap Moon Night Hike, February 10, 6-8pm. Find a sweet treat by moonlight as we tap our first tree! Then warm up by the fire and make s’mores. Age 6+. Fee is $3 ($2 Members)

Family Bird Watch, February 11, 2-4pm. Bring the whole flock to find winter birds. Bring your own pair of binoculars if you have them or use ours. Age 5+ . Free.

Valentine Treats, February 12, 2-4pm, Make chocolates for your sweetie and pinecone feeders for the birdies. Fee is $5 ($4 Members)

Annual Maple Sugar Weekends, February 18, 19, 25 & 26, 10am – 4pm. Sugar time activities are free, and no reservations are needed. Please see their website for more information

Oxen Cove Park Oxon Hill Road, Oxen Hill, MD, Phone: 301-839-1176, www.nps.gov/oxhi

Reading Stories with Ranger Steph: Four Seasons on the Farm, Monday, February 20, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. For babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers, and the adults who love them! Every third Monday of the month, come listen to stories, sing songs, and enjoy other activities. This month, celebrate the coming of 2012 with a look at all four seasons of the year. Find out why sheep love the winter and why Ranger Steph loves the summer. What’s YOUR favorite season? No fee. Meet in the Visitor Barn. For more information, call 301-839-1176.

Who Belongs on the Farm? Sunday, February 26, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. For children ages 2 to 10, and accompanying adults. Sheep, cows, pigs, chickens… and deer!? Which of these animals doesn’t belong on the farm? Discover the difference between wild and domestic animals. Find out which forest animals are often found at Oxon Hill Farm, or in the surrounding parkland. Enjoy a puppet show and a ranger-led tour of the farm. Meet at the Visitor Barn.

Patapsco Valley State Park 8020 Baltimore National Pike Ellicott City, MD 21043 410-461-5005 Website: www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/central/patapscoalert.asp and www.patapscoheritagegreenway.org
Please call 410-461-5005 to register unless otherwise noted

Owl Prowl, Soldiers Delight NEA, February 4, 7-9pm. Participants will follow a naturalist on a one-mile hike and listen for and try to call out owls. Later we will discuss basic biology, habitat, diet, and conservation. Captive owls from our aviary will be on-hand for educational assistance. Suitable for families and individual adult patrons alike. Meet at visitor center. Rain or shine. For ages 16 yrs and up, unless accompanied by an adult. Please call 410-461-5005 for more information or to sign up. Cost: $5 per person.

Yoga Hike, Hilton, February 11, 10am-12pm Hike a scenic 2-mile section of the Patapsco's trails and stretch your muscles with a guided yoga meditation. Wear comfortable clothes that you can stretch in and bring water, this will be a moderately difficult activity. Perfect for all ages! Meet at Hilton Nature Center. Please call 410-461-5005 to sign up. Cost: Free! Donations welcome.

Star-Gazing, Soldiers Delight, February 11, 8-10pm. Best Chance to see Mercury. The planet Mercury will be far enough from the Sun's glare to be visible shortly after sunset for the next two weeks. All programs are Rain or Shine. Time machines will be provided by the Westminster Astronomy Club. February highlight: Mercury the closest planet to the sun. Please call 877-794-0606 in advance to register if you are in a group of 10 or more, or for more information. Meet in the Visitors Center. Cost: Free! Donations welcome.

Patuxent Research Refuge 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop, Laurel, MD 20708, Phone: 301-497-5887, http://patuxent.fws.gov
Programs held at the National Wildlife Visitor Center. The National Wildlife Visitor Center is located on Powder Mill Road between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 197, in Laurel, Maryland

What’s up Woodchuck? Thursday, February 2, 10:30am-12:00pm, Ages 5-7. It's Ground Hog's Day! Come learn about February's famous rodent and his special job. Discover how groundhogs or whistle pigs can help tell people "What's up?" when it comes to the weather in this fun interactive program! Hike weather permitting.

Animal Architects, Friday, February 10, 1-2:30pm, Ages 5-7. Apartments, houses, mansions- these are homes for people! But just like people, animals build homes too - lodges, dens and nests. Come learn about animal architects and build your own animal home in this fun hands- on program.

Endangered! Wednesday, February 15, 10:30-11:30am, Ages 8-12. What does it mean to be endangered? Come learn about some of world’s noted endangered species and discover why they are struggling to survive! Discover what you can do to help endangered species in this interactive program.

Nature Tots: Owls Outside, Thursday, February 16, 10:30-11:30am & 1-2pm, Ages 3-4 Introduce your preschooler to wonderful world of owls through songs, stories and crafts in this interactive program. It’s a hoot!

Radical Rainforests, Saturday, February 18, 1-2:30pm, Ages 8-10. The Rainforest is a special place on Earth filled with vibrant & fascinating plants and animals that are found no where else on this planet. Join us as we explore this special place and learn the importance of rainforests for everyone!

Spectacular Snowflakes, Sunday, February 19, 1:30-3:00pm, Ages 8-10. Ever wonder how a snowflake forms? Discover the differences between snowflakes and see them captured just before they melt! Take a winter walk to search for snowflakes or other patterns in nature and create your own intricate snowflake to take home.

Nature Tots: Who’s There Big Bear? Monday, February. 27, 10:30-11:30am & 1-2pm, Ages 3-4. Come celebrate International Polar Bear Day by learning about our three native bears! Discover where they live and how they are different through songs, stories and a craft.

Programs held at the North Tract. The North Tract is located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32.

Owl Prowl, Saturday February 25, 5:30-7:00pm, ages 10+ Explore the refuge at night while looking and listening for owls.

Bird Walk, Sunday, February. 26, 8:15-10:15am, all ages. Search for birds in several refuge habitats on this guided hike. Field guides and binoculars recommended

Patuxent River Park 16000 Croom Airport Road, Upper Marlboro MD Phone: 301­627­6074, www.pgparks.com

Piney Run Park & Nature Center 30 Martz Road, Sykesville, MD 21784 410-795-6043 www.pineyrunpark.org or http://ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/recpark/pineyrun/

Groundhog Day Craft Celebration, Wednesday, February 1, 1pm for ages 3-7. Will old Mr. Groundhog see his shadow or will spring come early this year? Join the Piney Run Nature Center to learn about Groundhog Day and our furry little weather forecasters. Make a special Groundhog Day craft that you can take home to celebrate! Fee: $7

Super Bowl Stomach Day-Hike, Monday, February 6, 9-11am, for ages 9-adult. The average person eats approximately 8-10 pounds of food on Super Bowl Sunday! Sound familiar? Come for a calorie-burning, yet informative nature hike around the “inlet” trail. This hike is approximately 3.5 miles long so dressaccordingly, in your favorite football team’s jersey, of course! Please bring a water bottle and lots of energy, as well. Fee: $5

Wolf Moon Campfire, Wednesday, February 8, 6-7:30pm for ages 9-adult. Amid the cold and deep snows of midwinter, the wolf packs howled hungrily outside Indian villages. Thus, the name for January’s full Moon came about: The Wolf Moon. Learn some interesting facts about the carnivorous relatives of “man’s best-friend.” You may even get a chance to pet a real wolf! And of course, what is a campfire without s’mores? Please dress accordingly and bring a head-lamp or flashlight just in case. Fee: $7

Morning Bird Walk, Thursday, February 16, 8:30am, ages 10 and up. Venture outside and join Dave Harvey of the Carroll County Bird Club, for a morning bird walk. Search for the many different types of songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and woodpeckers that inhabit Piney Run Park. Beginning birders are welcome. Bring along binoculars and field guides. Dress for the weather since walks occur rain or shine. Meet at PRNC front door. Fee: $5

Trackers Tracking Tracks, Friday, February 17, 4-5pm, for ages 6-12. Some animals have gone into hibernation for the winter, but there are still plenty of creatures out and about. Learn how to find, identify, and follow animal tracks! And make your very own track-identification-guide so you can search for tracks anytime you want! Be ready to get dirty! Fee: $7

Winter Story Time, February 23, 11am, for ages 3-6. The weather may be cold and dreary but it’s warm by the fire at Piney Run Nature Center. Bring your little one and a blanket to spend a chilly morning curled up beside the woodstove listening to stories and tales about animals in winter. Enjoy hot chocolate and treats during the story. Fee: $5

Signs of Spring Leap Year Hike, Wednesday, February 29, 2pm for all ages. Feeling like you have cabin fever? Are you wondering when the animals are going to re-appear and when the trees are going to be green again? Bundle up and come for a nature walk. Look for signs of life emerging in the forest and learn how to use the clues of bark, buds, and branches to indentify trees during the winter time. Fee: $7

Quiet Waters Park 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis, MD 21403, Phone: 410-222-1711, www.friendsofquietwaterspark.org

The Quiet Waters Park Ice Rink. Hours are Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 9am – 9pm, Monday, Wednesday – Friday 10am – 9pm, closed Tuesdays. All sessions last two hours and start every hour on the hour. Ice skating lessons are offered for children and adults. For more information see www.aacounty.org/RecParks/qwicerink.cfm

Rock Creek Nature Center 5200 Glover Road, NW, Washington, DC, Phone:202-426-6829, www.nps.gov/rocr/

United States Botanic Garden 100 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20001, Phone: 202-225-8333, www.usbg.gov

Sprouts, Wednesdays, from 10:30 until 11:30 am (Please call for dates - 202-225-1116), Bring your preschooler to the U.S. Botanic Garden for plant-related fun. Sign up for a one month session and attend four different programs. Each Wednesday session will have varied activities that may include a story, art activity, or walk in the garden. Meet in the Conservatory Classroom. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Participating children must be 3 years of age (Preschoolers ages 3–5). Pre-registration required.

Watkins Nature Center 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD Phone:301­218­6702, www.pgparks.com

All About Raptors, Saturday, February 4, 10 am Meet and learn about raptors, including hawks and owls. Reservations required. Cost: PG County Resident $2/person; Non-Resident $3/person Ages: 2 & up

Nature Center Puppet Show, Saturday, February 11, 10am. Enjoy a seasonal puppet show and meet a live animal. Reservations required. Cost: PG County Resident $2/person; Non-Resident $3/person Ages: 2-10

Cub Scout Badge Workshop, Monday, February 13, 1 pm A naturalist will lead Webelos in a "Naturalist" badge achievement workshop. Reservations required. Cost: PG County Resident $5/person; Non-Resident $6/person Ages: 10-12

Nature Craft, Saturday, February 18, 10 am. Enjoy a story, meet a live animal, and make a craft. Reservations required. Cost: PG County Resident $2/person; Non-Resident $3/person Ages: 2-10

Live Animal Show, Saturday, February 25, 10 am. Meet some of the center's animals up close. Learn about their habits and characteristics. Reservations required. Cost: PG County Resident $2/person; Non-Resident $3/person Ages: 2-10

Animals in Winter, Saturday, January 28, 10 am : Meet some of the center's animals up close. Learn how different types of animals survive the winter. Cost: PG County Resident Resident $2/person; Non-Resident $3/person Ages: 2 & up