Manatee Watch

Every Wednesday from 2-4 pm

Join volunteers at the Manatee Observation Deck any time between 2-4 pm to learn about the endangered manatee and possibly observe one in the wild. This program is weather dependent.

Shorebird Photo Presentation & Tour

Thursday, May 2 at 1 pm

View a photo presentation to learn how to identify sandpipers and plovers, collectively called shorebirds. Then caravan in your own vehicle with a refuge volunteer in the lead to learn about the birds that inhabit the refuge. The guide will communicate with participants by two-way radio. Call 321-861-5601 for reservations.

Beginning Bird Tour, Carpool

Saturdays, May 11, 18 and 25 at 9 am

Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day, May 12, by participating in a bird tour in May. Caravan in your own vehicle along Black Point Wildlife Drive with a refuge volunteer in the lead to learn about the birds that inhabit the refuge. The guide will communicate with participants by two-way radio. Space is limited. Please call 321-861-5601 for reservations.

Aquatic Wild Teacher Workshop

Saturday, May 11 from 8:30 am to 3 pm

Local environmental educator and artist, Beverly Osborne will conduct the workshop. This workshop is open to teachers, scout leaders, home school parents, and volunteers interested in working with students. Aquatic WILD is an interdisciplinary conservation and environmental education program emphasizing wildlife. participants will receive Aquatic Wild Activity Guides. There are no concessions at the refuge so please bring your lunch. Space is limited so call 321-861-0668 for reservations.

All About Manatees

Wednesday, May 15 at 1 pm

Learn all about manatees with a refuge volunteer by viewing a photo presentation and hands on manatee artifacts. Call 321-861-5601 to make reservations.

50th Anniversary Lecture Series

Saturday, May 18 at 1 pm

The presenter Tim Kozusko is employed by InoMedic Health Applications at Kennedy Space Center, working with NASA's Ecological Program. Tim will discuss the factors that led to the acquisition of the refuge and the formation of the barrier island complex. He will also discuss how rockets are launched while protection of this valuable national resource is ensured. Call 321-861-5601 for reservations.

All About Gators

Thursday, May 23 at 1 pm

Learn about this amazing reptile through a photo presentation and alligator artifacts. Call 321-861-5601 for reservations.

Butterfly Presentation & Survey

Saturday, May 18 at 9 am

Volunteers and refuge staff will participate in a survey to identify butterflies in several habitats for the Butterfly Monitoring Network and the North American ButterflyCount. No experience necessary. Bring water, snack and insect repellant. Call 321-861-5601 for information and to make reservations.

Refuge Photography Club

Thursday, May 23 at 2 pm

Join professional nature photographer and teacher Milton Heiberg to learn some techniques and tips about wildlife and nature photography. Call 321-861-5601 to make reservations.

Adopt a Trail...Shore...Spot...Road Program

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is proud to announce a new program to help reduce and control litter. Individuals, families, civic groups, clubs, school groups and businesses are invited to participate. The program is patterned after the National Adopt a Road program. Areas open for adoption include interior roads, shorelines, trails and spots such as boat launches and Refuge entrances. Participating members of the program will commit to three litter clean ups per year in their adopted area. Adopting organizations will get a recognition sign posted at their site. Please join us in keeping your refuge clean. Please call Ranger Nancy Corona at 321-861-0668 for more information.