Get Out!

Don't miss the chance to discover nature at these fun events!

1. Join us for Who Howled? and learn fascinating details about the latest wolf research and findings. All ages. Runge Conservation Nature Center in Jefferson City. November 3, 6:30– 8 p.m. No registration required. Call 573-526-5544 for more information.
2. Learn the basics of Treasure Hunting with GPS, and then hit the trails to find hidden treasures. GPS units provided. Ages 8 and older with an adult. Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. November 19, 1–3:30 p.m. Registration begins November 1. Call 573-290-5218 for more information.
3. Explore the basics of Dutch Oven Cooking. Fixings and equipment provided. Families. Columbia Bottom Conservation Area in St. Louis. November 12, 10 a.m.–noon. Call 314-877-6014 to register.
4. Stop by the Springfield Conservation Nature Center for Natural Crafts. We supply the materials, and parents provide the guidance. All ages. December 10, 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. No registration required. Call 417-888-4237 for more information.
5. Choose from one of six Eagle Days programs around the state, and visit 13 other locations where you can watch eagles in the wild. All ages. Visit mdc.mo.gov and search “eagle days” for locations, dates, and times. Early December through early February.
6. Looking for more ways to have fun outside? Find out about Discover Nature programs in your area at mdc.mo.gov/events.

The leaves have dropped and snow is in the air, but there’s still plenty to see and do outside. Let’s go!

• November 1 Work with your family to put up bird-feeding stations.
• November 11 Look for old bird nests in the woods.
• November 20 Ripe pecans are dropping from their trees. Gather some for a Thanksgiving pie. Search mdc.mo.gov for “pecan” to learn more and find great places to find pecan trees.
• December 1 Great horned owls are courting. Listen for “hoo, hoo-oo, hoo-oo.”
• December 5 Bald eagles begin arriving in Missouri.
• December 24 Look for these woodpeckers at your suet feeders: downy, hairy, pileated, and red-bellied.

What is it?

1. As a youngster, I’m bristly and curled.
2. I grow leathery and toothed when unfurled.
3. Soon my leaves start looking like stockings.
4. And at Christmas my green keeps on rocking.

Critter Corner

River Otter

Take a walk along a stream this winter, and you may see this member of the weasel family snacking on fish or playing on the ice. With streamlined bodies, webbed feet, and heavy layers of fat, otters are well-suited to life in the water. Otters live in family groups, so if you see one, you’re likely to see others. Visit mdc.mo.gov to learn more and find great places to see them.