In this interactive nature study, young people will perform sensory experiments to better understand the invaluable senses sharks rely on for survival! In doing so, we will develop empathy and appreciation for this important apex predator of our oceans.

Beaches aren’t just vacation hotspots. They are also a living habitat, home to many plants and animals, uniquely adapted to survive under the influence of wind, wave action and the hot summer sun. This nature study is a close look at the beach as a natural environment.

We aren’t letting go of summer that easily! During this nature study, students will explore seashells common to the NC shore as a way to learn more about the animals who build those shells: mollusks. This is a chance to sort, compare and investigate.

A small seed has many obstacles to overcome if they are to succeed in their task of growing into a new plant. Finding a place to settle is one such obstacle, but nature provides unique and ingenious ways for seeds to travel. Students will take a close look at seed dispersal adaptations during this nature study.

What is soil? Why is it important? Where does it come from? Soil is a magical combination of organic and inorganic matter and students will gain a better understanding of this critical renewable resource in this playful nature study.

This month students will explore meteorological tools used to measure weather. They will then compare weather to climate and consider which organisms are well suited to our NC climate, which are not and why!

Every critter has a role to play in their environment. What role that is and how it is played depends on the animal. This nature study is a chance for children to dive deeper into their understanding of two common and local herbivores, comparing what they eat, where they nest and what adaptations they have for survival on the bottom of the food chain!

We can’t get enough of birds here at Dragonfly Nature Programs! In this brand new lesson, students will explore the world of native raptors. From their beak shape to the size of their claws, from their preferred nesting sites and daily behaviors, students will gain an appreciation for this fascinating group of birds!

Spring is upon us and is therefore a great time to take a closer look at plant roots! Oftentimes children know the basics of root function, but this month we dive deep underground to compare types of roots, the anatomy of roots and the many functions they serve as one of a plant’s main organs.

This nature study is both a wide view and an up-close look at life cycles. We first consider a year in the life of a native long leaf pine forest including its need for regular fires for survival. Then we look more closely at the individual life cycles of organisms that rely on this endangered ecosystem.

This month we explore all things creepy and crawly: insects, spiders, millipedes, etc. We’ll investigate their larval forms, adult behaviors and life cycles. And we’ll make sure everyone understands how important these invertebrates are to healthy ecosystems!