Events

Handling a firearm can feel like a barrier if you're interested in hunting but haven't tried it before. We have a safe and fun way to help ease people into those activities. Our Lasershot system is a fun and engaging way to use realistic simulated firearms and get more comfortable or build skills in shooting. Join us at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and give our Lasershot system a try.

Hand carved and painted duck decoys have long been used in hunting and artistic displays. In this program we will be painting functional duck decoys made of foam. With dozens of duck species present in the state you will have many patterns to choose from or you make your own duck. So, join us at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center to practice an old and uncommon skill while learning about the ducks that visit our state.

Open to ages 13-17.

No fire-breathing dragons here! These little dragons you can hold in your hand. Missouri is home to a variety of dragonflies that flit across ponds & streams found all over the state. Learn about these beautiful insects in this month’s program and participate in a variety of dragonfly-related crafts and activities.

Little Acorns programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and young children to the natural world through hands on experiences, crafts, and focused free-play activities.

No fire-breathing dragons here! These little dragons you can hold in your hand. Missouri is home to a variety of dragonflies that flit across ponds & streams found all over the state. Learn about these beautiful insects in this month’s program and participate in a variety of dragonfly-related crafts and activities.

Little Acorns programs are designed to empower parents to introduce babies and young children to the natural world through hands on experiences, crafts, and focused free-play activities.

The remnant swamps and wetlands of Missouri provide unique habitat and angling opportunities for fish. In this program we will be meeting at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and shuttling to Duck Creek Conservation Area to explore remnant and restored swamps. Come learn about our precious, muddy ecosystems and catch some bass, sunfish, catfish, or even a bowfin.

Southeast Fishing Fin-atics is an opportunity to meet other anglers, explore different areas of fishing, and expand your skills. We are looking for anglers who have some fishing experience and are looking to build on those skills in a safe and welcoming environment.

This is an educational class on the painted bunting, a beautiful migratory bird native to southern Missouri. We will learn how to identify this species based on appearance and call. We will also talk about its conservation status and threats both here and in its other habitats. Finally, we will learn how to draw this colorful bird using oil pastels. No experience is required, and all materials will be provided. All you need is an open mind!

Discover the importance of Missouri reptiles and amphibians and see what it takes to keep our education animals healthy. Bring your family and friends as we introduce and feed several different reptiles and amphibians. Youth and adult groups are welcome.

Cool off with a scoop of summer fun at our wild edibles ice cream social! Discover how nature can add delicious flavors and colorful toppings to your favorite frozen treat. Attend a naturalist-led presentation and learn about safe and common wild edibles that can be used to enhance your ice cream then stop by our ice cream parlor for a delicious sample. This program is a part of our Nature Center at Night series with presentation times at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. The nature center building and exhibits will be open until 7:30 p.m.

You may have seen or heard of topographic maps in the past, those maps with a bunch of squiggly lines used to show elevation. This program is intended to teach you about those maps through hands on experience at Tywappity Community Lake. We will be meeting at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center and shuttling out at the start time, where we will go over reading maps, and then use maps to navigate the forest surrounding Tywappity Lake. Participants require no map reading experience and are encouraged to wear long pants and boots.

Ages 13+ with adult.

This class is a 12 month program, that coincides with the Needlers class, will meet once a month all year long. During these monthly sessions young participants will learn about species of Missouri's Streams. We will explore a wide variety of flora and fauna that can be found in or near Missouri’s beautiful streams and rivers.

Virtual options occur on the same day (at noon or 5PM), check the events calendar for registration links.

Classes will typically be held on the second Monday of each month.