Get Out!

Fun things to do and great places to discover nature.

• In April, it’s easy to catch enough crappie to fill a frying pan. Just flip a small jig out from shore. If the water’s clear, send the jig deep. If it’s murky, fish the shallows. When you hook one, keep fishing the same spot and you’ll likely land others.
• Baby bald eagles hatch in March. Many wetlands have eagle nests where you can catch a glimpse of mom and pop feeding their fuzzy hatchlings. Just don’t get too close or linger too long. You wouldn’t want to disturb America’s feathered first family.
• Listen for the rattling calls of belted kingfishers at streams, lakes, and wetlands. The smokey-blue birds dive into water beak-first to snap up fish for breakfast.
• In late March, zebra swallowtail butterflies emerge from their cocoons and flutter around looking for nectar to guzzle. Females lay eggs on pawpaw trees, so you’re more likely to spot these striped wonders if you find a pawpaw patch.
• Mama cottontails begin having babies in mid-March. Keep dogs and cats inside so they won’t harm these easy-to-catch little critters. If you find a nest of baby bunnies, leave it alone. Mom will eventually return to take care of them.

Looking for more ways to have fun outside? Find out about Discover Nature programs in your area at mdc.mo.gov/events