Local Events 

October 19, 10am at WBU Flower Mound
Hugh Franks, presents Box Turtles

Come see live turtles. Introduction to the North American box turtle, with emphasis on the species found in the DFW area:
No one dislikes box turtles. Some people may be disinterested in them but do not dislike them; there is actually nothing to dislike. But, how much do you really know about these wonderful little creatures? This presentation will provide a brief description of their life cycle as well as some interesting facts about them, along with some live specimens for viewing and examination. At the presentation's conclusion, there will be a question-and-answer session for further information and understanding of the amazing world they inhabit.

November 16, 10am at WBU Flower Mound
Mindfulness in Texas Nature by Michael Smith

Michael's talk describes the benefits of time spent in nature, ranging from decreases in blood pressure and boosts to the immune system to decreased stress and depression. In particular, he describes practicing mindfulness when birding, observing other wildlife, or just exploring nature. Discussion also includes keeping a nature journal.

Speaker:

Michael Smith is a retired Psychological Associate, writer, and naturalist. He has written three books; two of them on the subject of herpetology and natural history and the third on the practice of mindfulness in various natural places in the state of Texas. He also writes at Our Lives in Nature (https://livesinnature.com) and for Green Source DFW (https://greensourcedfw.org).

His books: Herping Texas: The Quest for Reptiles and Amphibians (coauthored with Clint King); The Wild Lives of Reptiles and Amphibians: A Young Herpetologist’s Guide; and Mindfulness in Texas Nature. All three are published by Texas A&M University Press.

December 7, 10am at WBU Flower Mound

Crafting with Sue Yost, just in time for Christmas!

January 18, 2025, 11am at WBU Flower Mound

Blackland Prairie Raptor Center Meet and Greet with Raptors!

February 15, 2025, 10am at WBU Flower Mound
The Snake Lady

Sharon Barr and Texas Master Naturalist, Elm Fork Chapter

May 17, 2025, 10am, WBU Flower Mound
Creating a Suburban Oasis for Pollinators with Teddi Zonker

What are the best practices for creating a suburban oasis? Master Gardener and Master Naturalist Teddi Zonker will discuss the best plants to add to your landscape, the difference between host and nectar plants, and so much more! Learn all about the synergies of butterflies, bees and birds in your garden.

*Discover which plants to add to your landscape; the difference between host and nectar plants.
*Common butterflies and beneficial insects in North Texas.
*Beneficial native/drought tolerant plants and basic steps to consider when designing/planting.
*Synergy of butterflies, bees, birds, other pollinators.
*Helpful resources and information.

Speaker:

Teddi Zonker is a self-taught butterfly hobbyist for nearly 20 years, award-winning photographer and local municipality fitness manager. She is a Cross Timbers Master Naturalist-VP, Tarrant County Master Gardener, Monarch Watch Monarch Conservation Specialist, member of the Native Plant Society of Texas and Native Prairies Association of Texas. She has also completed the Native Landscape Certification Program and Volunteer Advanced Training/Entomology program. Teddi is also a Garden Coach, helping others convert suburban landscapes into pollinator habitats and Monarch Waystations. With a B. S. in Public Relations and a M.S. in Recreation and Leisure Studies, her goal is to educate others on the need for pollinator spaces and show how simple (and enjoyable) it is to meet this need starting with their own back (and front) yard!

June 21, 2025, 10am at WBU Flower Mound
Texas Native Cats

Monica Morrison with Texas Native Cats