NEW EXPLORATION PROGRAMS

Manatee Junior Rescuer Training

Grade Levels: 3 - 12

Embark on a mock manatee rescue and learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about these incredible, gentle giants! In this interactive class, students will step into the shoes of wildlife biologists who are called upon to respond to a manatee in distress. Through hands-on activities and role-playing, your group will “rescue” a manatee, collect important data, and discover the challenges manatees face in their natural habitat, as well as the important role of science in conservation and management.

Radical Reefs: Rainforests of the Sea

Grade Levels: K - 12

Join us for an exciting adventure into the world of coral reefs! In this class, students dive deep into understanding these vibrant ecosystems, the incredible biodiversity they support, and the urgent challenges they face through interactive activities, games, and hands-on experiments.

Critter Care Crew

Grade Levels: K - 12

In this engaging and interactive class, students will embark on a journey to explore the wondrous world of animals and how animals are cared for in professional settings. We’ll investigate the fascinating lives, habitats, adaptations, and behaviors of creatures big and small. More than just a study of animals, this class will instill a sense of responsibility and love for all creatures, teaching students the basics of animal care through critical thinking.

Songs of the Sea: Exploring Marine Mammal Communication

Grade Levels: K - 12

Join us for an exciting journey into the fascinating world of marine mammal communication! In this interactive class, students will uncover how whales and dolphins use sound to navigate, hunt, and communicate underwater. Students will learn about bioacoustics (i.e., the systematic study of sounds produced by living organisms) and will be challenged to identify various species by the sounds they make.

Shark Exploration Squad

Grade Levels: K - 12

Dive into a world of “jawsome” adventures! From the mighty great white to the graceful hammerhead, students will learn about different shark species, their habitats, and the unique adaptations that have crowned them as apex predators of the sea. Through interactive activities and games, participants will discover the importance of science and technology in the study of sharks and the role sharks play in maintaining balance in our oceans.

Expedition Walking Trees

Grade Levels: K - 12

Learn all about Florida’s fascinating mangrove forests! Through interactive activities and games, students will gain a deeper appreciation for these unique, critical ecosystems and “walking trees”. They will learn about the important role mangroves play in storm protection and mitigating erosion, as well as the diversity of marine life they support, most importantly service as a nursery for baby marine creatures.

Inky Business

Grade Levels: 5 - 12

Explore the mysterious world of cephalopods in this slimy, hands-on class! Students will get the chance to dissect a real squid and uncover its fascinating anatomy. We'll learn about the unique adaptations that make squids such amazing underwater creatures, explore their role in the ocean ecosystem, and even discover how they can change color and squirt ink!

CONTINUING EXPLORATION PROGRAMS

Winged Warriors of the Sky: Owl Pellet Investigation

Grade Levels: 2 - 12

Students will learn about the remarkable adaptions owls possess, including incredible night vision, virtually silent, stealth hunting, and a very flexible neck. Following a presentation and a meet and greet with one of our animal ambassadors, students will investigate owl pellets (i.e., regurgitated, undigested food), while learning about the food web and forest ecology. Two students will work together to disassemble a pellet and can take home the small skeletal remains of the owl’s prey.

NOTE: Two weeks notice is required for ordering pellets.

Exploring the Seagrasses of the Indian River Lagoon

Grade Levels: 1 - 12

This is a very popular field activity at the Nature Center for students of all ages! Participants will learn about the importance of seagrass beds in Florida and the incredible biodiversity of the Indian River Lagoon. Then, they’ll wade in the shallow water grass flats and use a dip net to collect and organize the many creatures discovered in their nets. NOTE: Dates are limited, as programs are scheduled only at low tide in the spring. Participants are required to wear closed-toed shoes (e.g., water shoes or sneakers) and must be prepared to enter the water up to their waists.

NOTE: Wading programs can only be booked April-October, and they are tide dependent.

Tracks & Scat....How About That!

Grade Levels: Pre – K - 5

Through hands-on activities, students are introduced to how animals move through their habitats and how to identify common animal signs, specifically their tracks and scat. Participants make their own replica scat to take home using modeling clay and a variety of "additives".

Incredible Edible Bugs: Entomophagy

Grade Levels: 1 - 12

Insects have been consumed as an important source of food by many cultures for hundreds of years. This program includes a discussion about the nutritional value of insects and a savory insect tasting for each student!