Virtual Events

This virtual program will explain the natural history of owls and introduce students to specialized owl adaptations with special guests from the World Bird Sanctuary. This program is designed for students in 3rd-8th grade.

https://mdc.webex.com/webappng/sites/mdc/webinar/webinarSeries/register/1c0538e0e3ec4d2f97f78b221b14ac43

Programs will be the same both days, and will not be recorded.

Central Missouri offers many opportunities for scenic hikes. Springs, caves, wildflowers, prairies, glades, and more are ready to explore if you know where to go. In this virtual program we will discuss the basics of safe hiking including gear and clothing, suggestions for scenic hiking trails in Central Missouri, navigating Missouri State Parks and Missouri Department of Conservation websites, and information about Runge Nature Center’s hiking programs. Participants will receive the program link by email the day before and again one hour before the presentation begins. Registration required. All ages

This virtual program is a continuation of a multi-part series on primitive skills and bushcraft. “Natural Adhesives” is a virtual program as an introduction to the creation and use of Pitch Glue, Hide Glue, and other ways to expand and improve your bushcraft tool kit. Start time will be 6:05 PM using the Webex platform and all registered participants will receive a link with the log-in information 24 hours prior to the event.

Did you know we have more than 12 species of bats that can be found in Missouri? Can you guess what they eat? Join us on a webinar on Missouri's bats! We will discuss bats in Missouri (and some from around the world), what makes a bat a bat, and then focus on Missouri's bats and what we can do to help them.

With Halloween creeping closer, it’s easy to get caught up in the chills and thrills of the season. But what if the critters that give us the heebie-jeebies—like spiders, snakes, and bats—aren’t so scary after all? These eerie animals may look frightening, but they play essential roles in keeping Missouri’s ecosystems healthy and balanced. Join us for a spine-tingling journey into the world of Missouri’s misunderstood wildlife as we discover why these spooky species deserve more treats than tricks! Registration required. Be sure to include your email address. The presenter will send the program link both the day before and one hour before the program begins. All ages

It’s no secret that bats are mysterious little critters. But how much of those fantastical things that we hear about bats are actually true? Join an MDC naturalist virtually to test your knowledge with the game Fact or Guano! Vote what you think is true in the chat and ask questions on the topic that are making you batty.

This program will take place on the meeting platform Webex. Register to receive a Webex meeting link to view the program. The meeting link will be sent out one week before the program as well as one day before.

When days get shorter and temperatures drop Missouri wildlife must decide what they do for winter. Should they stay or should they go? In this virtual program we will cover the different ways birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles combat the fridged winters.

This program will be held virtually using the video platform Webex. A link will be sent to participants the day of the program.

Dreaming of a vibrant wildscape buzzing with pollinators and bursting with native blooms? Ready to see birds out your window and fireflies dancing in the dark? This class is for the curious and passionate alike. Planning and planting in the fall is THE BEST time to get started. This virtual program will guide you through the essentials of fall preparation, planting, and winter seeding to set the stage for a thriving spring naturescape.

We’ll dig into the why, when, and how of transforming turf into habitat—covering everything from removing unwanted grass to prepping your space and choosing the right native biota. Whether you're starting small or envisioning a backyard national park, this session will help you create a space where biodiversity thrives and nature feels at home.

A link will be provided before the class. Let’s grow something wild together!

You "woodn't" want to miss the Beaver Supermoon happening on November 5th! This yearly occurrence is named after one of the most unique mammals found in Missouri, the American beaver. In this virtual program, we will discuss the significant impact beavers have had throughout history on our culture and the meaning of the beaver supermoon. We will learn about their unique adaptations that make them well suited for their environment and their role as "ecosystem engineers".

This webinar will be held through Webex. The link to join the webinar will be sent out the day before the program to those that register.

Registration required by visiting www.deeproots.org/curious-by-nature (adults) Fire is just one tool in the shed for land management but has been utilized by people for millennia. Join Johnson County Parks and Recreation District's natural resource team as we learn the valuable role prescribed burns play in large land management both during the dormant, and less often, the growing season. Stick around for the live Q&A where you can ask your large land management questions to our guest experts.