Put your pollinator garden to work for science and help support backyard wildlife! The Great Southeast Pollinator Census will take place over two days in August (August 22-23 in 2025). Participation is easy, and Rose will guide you through some of the trickier IDs, such as distinguishing a bumblebee from a carpenter bee, or recognizing a bee from a bee-mimic. This event is a fantastic opportunity to engage in wildlife programs and enjoy nature walks while learning about our essential pollinators. For more details about the event, visit GSEPC.ORG.
How do tiny birds survive an ice storm? Do any of our local animals hibernate? What happens to our butterflies and other insects? How can you make your yard a winter haven for backyard wildlife? Learn about some of the amazing adaptations that allow our local wildlife to survive Georgia winters, which can enhance your birding experiences and support our pollinator census. Join us on nature walks to discover more about wildlife programs that help protect these creatures during the cold months.
Let’s face it, hormones influence all creatures to behave in ways that range from ridiculous to sublime. Do all birds mate for life? You might be surprised to learn that bird courtship shares more similarities with human courtship than you think. This cheeky, frank, yet scientific program explores courtship and mating in the bird world, making it a favorite for nature walks, backyard wildlife enthusiasts, and those who enjoy wildlife programs. Perfect for Valentine's Day or springtime birding activities!
Over 50 species of fireflies can be found in Georgia, making it the state with the most fireflies in the U.S.! Unfortunately, like many native insects, fireflies are experiencing a decline. By supporting backyard wildlife and participating in wildlife programs, we can help these cherished insects thrive, one yard at a time. Join us for nature walks and contribute to the pollinator census, as every small action counts in preserving our natural heritage.
Atlanta is fortunate to be known as 'The City in a Forest.' To create a haven for backyard wildlife, it's essential to start at the bottom of the food chain by providing the basics of food, water, and shelter throughout all four seasons. This includes discussions on birding essentials, the importance of native plants, and how to create shelter for animals you may not have considered. Additionally, participating in wildlife programs and engaging in nature walks can enhance your understanding and appreciation of local ecosystems, while contributing to initiatives like the pollinator census.
Bats are weird and wonderful! Did you know that there are more important things than bat boxes if you want to attract bats to your backyard wildlife? While some Georgia bat species are being decimated by an introduced fungus that causes White-Nose Syndrome, the Georgia DNR is actively working to prevent our bats from extinction. You can get involved by participating in wildlife programs or even joining nature walks to learn more about these fascinating creatures! Rose is a liaison for the GA Bat Working Group, and she can guide you on how to help. Don't forget to pay attention to the pollinator census while you're enjoying birding in your yard!
Attract a diverse range of backyard wildlife and the largest number of birds to your yard. Discover how to avoid cheap fillers with hands-on examples of seeds and seed blends during your nature walks. Explore the different types of feeders that will help you attract seed, insect, nectar, and fruit-eating birds while participating in wildlife programs and a pollinator census.
Discover how to attract and support one of Georgia’s most charming native birds while enhancing your backyard wildlife experience. Learn about bluebird nesting habits, the best types of boxes and feeders, and how to create a safe, welcoming habitat for these vibrant, bug-eating beauties. Engaging in birding and nature walks can deepen your appreciation for these birds, and participating in wildlife programs or a pollinator census can further enrich your understanding of local ecosystems.
Get to know the backyard wildlife you see—and hear—every day! This birding program introduces some of Atlanta’s most familiar feathered residents and offers tips and tricks for recognizing their songs and calls. It's perfect for beginners and backyard birders alike, and it complements nature walks and wildlife programs. Plus, consider participating in the pollinator census to enhance your appreciation of local wildlife.
Discover the mysterious night hunters of metro Atlanta in this engaging program that delves into local owl species. Participants will learn about their calls, habits, and habitats while enjoying optional nature walks, including an exciting “owl prowl” night hike. This experience is perfect for those interested in backyard wildlife and birding, and it complements our wildlife programs that promote awareness of our local ecosystems.
Discover the fascinating world of hawks, owls, falcons, and other raptors that call Georgia home. Whether you're engaging in backyard wildlife observation or going on nature walks, learn how to identify these powerful predators, understand their role in the ecosystem, and explore the adaptations that make them such skilled hunters. Join local wildlife programs and participate in a pollinator census to enhance your birding experience.
Did you know that dragonflies spend most of their lives underwater? This program covers the basics about dragonflies, offering lots of fun facts, and highlights the most common dragonflies found in our area. We will also discuss how to enhance your backyard wildlife through gardening techniques that attract these exciting, jewel-like, mosquito-eating machines. Join us for nature walks and learn about birding opportunities, as well as participating in a pollinator census as part of our wildlife programs.
There’s just something whimsical about mushrooms that makes people smile, much like the joy found in backyard wildlife. Recent scientific breakthroughs reveal that fungi may provide communication paths between plants in a forest, enhancing the experience of nature walks. In this piece, we’ll cover basic mushroom identification, common mushrooms (including common edibles), and some of the wackier Georgia mushrooms, which can add to your birding adventures and contribute to local wildlife programs, such as the pollinator census.
Knowledge is power! Can you pass the “Spot the Copperhead” quiz? Join us for an engaging exploration of backyard wildlife, learn about our local snakes, and see a demonstration of safe snake handling procedures (no live snakes involved). This is a great opportunity to enhance your birding skills, participate in nature walks, and even take part in our pollinator census as part of our wildlife programs.
All about Georgia’s state mammal – the White-Tailed Deer, which is a vital part of the local ecosystem and can often be spotted during nature walks. Observing these magnificent creatures adds to the experience of enjoying backyard wildlife. Additionally, engaging in birding activities around areas where White-Tailed Deer roam can enhance your appreciation for the state's biodiversity. Many wildlife programs also encourage residents to participate in efforts like the pollinator census, which helps protect the natural habitats that these animals rely on.
This presentation celebrates the beauty of hummingbirds worldwide and focuses on the hummers found in the Atlanta area, including our mysterious winter hummers. It also explores how to best feed these fascinating birds, from feeder styles to gardening tips, making it a perfect addition to any backyard wildlife enthusiast's repertoire. Join us for nature walks and learn about birding while participating in the pollinator census through our engaging wildlife programs. This is my most requested program!
Hands-on, engaging programs tailored to help Scouts earn their naturalist, wildlife, and outdoor-themed badges. From birding basics and nature walks to habitat exploration and insect investigations, each session is designed to meet badge requirements while sparking curiosity and respect for the natural world. Scouts can also participate in a pollinator census to enhance their understanding of backyard wildlife. Programs can be adapted for different age levels and troop needs.
Explore Atlanta’s trails and green spaces with Rose on a guided birding or nature walk tailored to your pace and interests. Whether you're a beginner birder, an out-of-town guest, planning a unique date, or seeking the perfect gift for a nature lover, these walks are a memorable way to connect with local wildlife and learn about backyard wildlife. You can even participate in a pollinator census or discover various wildlife programs during your adventure.
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