https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-59666165-preschool#/

Ages: 3–7, accompanied by an adult
This December, join us for a cozy holiday edition of Preschool Connections! We'll read Owl in the Christmas Tree, a delightful story about a curious little owl who finds a home among the twinkling lights. After story time, children will make their own owl ornament to hang on their Christmas tree and learn a few fun facts about real owls, too!
Come celebrate the season with storytelling, crafting, and nature discovery — a perfect mix of wonder and winter cheer.

If any questions email me at sara@wildcatglades.org

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/213426

Join us as we celebrate the holidays with light refreshments and holiday activities for young and old alike. Learn how to recycle last year’s Natural Event Calendar into this year’s holiday gifts. Enjoy a day of crafting a variety of nature ornaments to take home. The Wildcat Glades Nature Group Nature store will be open for shopping, so you can find that perfect gift for the nature-lover on your shopping list. Stop by anytime!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-59666165-preschool#/

Ages: 3–7, accompanied by an adult
This December, join us for a cozy holiday edition of Preschool Connections! We'll read Owl in the Christmas Tree, a delightful story about a curious little owl who finds a home among the twinkling lights. After story time, children will make their own owl ornament to hang on their Christmas tree and learn a few fun facts about real owls, too!
Come celebrate the season with storytelling, crafting, and nature discovery — a perfect mix of wonder and winter cheer.

If any questions email me at sara@wildcatglades.org

https://mostateparks.com/event/108091/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

https://wildcatglades.org/event/ozark-christmas-tree-revival/

Step into the magic of the season at Wildcat Glades! Whether you’re searching for the perfect juniper tree or a fragrant cedar wreath, warming up with hot cocoa, or capturing a moment with Father Christmas, this festive event is one you won’t want to miss. Bring your friends and family for a joyful day and help support our natural spaces!

• Hand-picked juniper trees & cedar wreaths for sale

• Delicious hot cocoa for all ages

• Memorable photos with Father Christmas

Gather with your community, celebrate the holidays, and make a difference—all in one cheerful afternoon. We can’t wait to see you there!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/212765

Have you ever wanted to learn how to tie flies? Join the Shoal Creek staff, MAKO fly fishers, and Bud's Bait in this fly-tying series designed for beginners and experts alike. Each session will build off of the previous session, so attendance for all sessions is encouraged. We will be working with Chenille and tying flies and jigs with rubber legs. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own vice and tools. Space is limited.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-60114490-festive#/

Festive Holiday Craft Workshop for Adults
Monday, December 1st 6 pm to 8 pm
Wildcat Glades Education Cottage
$15
Come join us for a fun and festive evening as we create three delightful holiday crafts—perfect for gifting to loved ones or adding a special touch to your own home décor. You'll get to make creative saltshaker tassels, whimsical snow globe frames, and more seasonal treasures. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays, get inspired, and enjoy the magic of the season together! Preregistration is required & space is limited.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/213172

Stroll & S’mores: Autumn is an amazing time of year to enjoy the outdoors! Join MDC Naturalists on a fall stroll in Wildcat Park, then spend a cozy evening around the fire making some delectable s’mores. This walk is rated easy but be sure to dress for the weather and bring a comfy outdoor chair! Recommend for ages 7 and up. Registration is required.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2683033722073019/

Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.

We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able. If you need to come in late just walk the trail west of the parking lot and you will find us!

Wildcat Programs: Nature Explorers: Birds-Eye View Binoculars & Birding

This month's Nature Explorers program takes flight with a focus on binoculars and birdwatching! Young naturalists will learn how to use binoculars, identify common birds, and explore the skies and trees on a guided birding adventure. With fun activities like bird ID bingo, this hands-on class is perfect for curious kids ready to spread their wings.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/213170

It's time to talk turkeys! Join us for Little Acorns: Turkey Talk to learn all about these big, feathery marvels and why they are such an icon of the season. Participants will also make a fun turkey craft to take home!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/212413

Have you ever wanted to learn how to tie flies? Join the Shoal Creek staff, MAKO fly fishers, and Bud's Bait in this fly-tying series designed for beginners and experts alike. This session will be held at Bud's Bait. Each session will build off of the previous session, so attendance for all sessions is encouraged. We will be working with dubbing and tying flies like scuds and nymphs. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own vice and tools. Space is limited. This session will be held at Bud's Bait on East 13th Street in Joplin.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/212500

Each year, many ducks and geese migrate to Missouri for winter. Join this virtual program to learn how to identify common waterfowl species. This program will not be recorded. All ages. Registration required. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link.

Did you know we can tell where certain birds and bats are using radio transmitters? Yes, its being done.

So tune in to our November Meeting! Our November meeting will be held November 13th, 6:30 p.m. at the Shoal Creek Education Center.

The speaker will be Dr. Andrew George from Pitt State and he will be presenting over Tracking Bats and Birds with MOTUS.

November 10, 6:30 PM
Learn about the impacts of artificial light on wildlife and people and walk away with actions you can start taking today to limit light pollution. Facilitator: Jesze Doleh, Park Superintendent at Thousand Hills State Park. RSVP appreciated to pastor@sojournerschristianchurch.org

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/208807

In the spring, while the grass is starting to grow, flowers blooming and new babies being born, the deer and other alike animals are starting to loose their antlers. Shed hunting is becoming a popular thing to do for some people. Join us in figuring out what is the best way to find them and how to go about doing so.

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/212412

Have you ever wanted to learn how to tie flies? Join the Shoal Creek staff, MAKO fly fishers, and Bud's Bait in this fly-tying series designed for beginners and experts alike. Each session will build off of the previous session, so attendance for all sessions is encouraged. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own vice and tools. Space is limited.

https://mostateparks.com/event/108086/guided-bison-saunter

Prairie State Park will host a guided bison saunter starting at the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center at 10 a.m.

“What is a saunter?” you say? According to Merriam-Webster, “saunter” means "to walk about in an idle or leisurely manner : STROLL" (that is, to walk at a slower pace to take in all the surroundings). That sounds better than a hike. Come out and get that “prairie feeling” from centuries past, and while you are at it, get some exercise. Prairie State Park encompasses almost 4,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, which once covered 33% of Missouri. Now, less than half of 1% remains.

Spring has arrived, and with it come new sights, sounds and smells on the prairie. Birds are active, with some migrating north and some here for the summer to raise their brood. The bison are here to stay with their calves.

Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since we won’t know the location of the bison until the morning of the event, bringing water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat and wearing sturdy shoes is recommended. May weather can be unpredictable and windy – be sure to dress for it. 

Due to the unique and rare diversity of life preserved at Prairie State Park, pets are not allowed on park trails, EXCEPT for Path of the Earth People and Path of the Sky People. Bison graze freely in the park, and this regulation protects both you and your pet. You are welcome to bring your pet to the park's campground and picnic area, but you must follow Missouri State Parks' pet rules. This applies to all types of pets except service animals assisting people with disabilities.

This event is free and open to the public. However, registration is required, and there is a limit of 30 participants. To register, call the park office at 417-843-6711.

It’s that time of year again where we put on our best costumes and head out looking for tricks and treats! Did you know that wildlife sometimes wears costumes, too? Not the kind you would wear to a costume party, but disguises that help them survive in the wild. Wear your favorite costume and join us for Little Acorns: Critter Costumes to learn about all the different ways animals disguise themselves and make a fun craft to take home with you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/211990

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/209307

We are blessed with so many fishing opportunities in our local streams. Here is your chance to learn about stream fishing. We will be fishing Elk River at Cowskin Conservation Access near Noel. You will have the opportunity to fish from the bank or get into the river and wade fish. You are encouraged to bring you own fishing equipment, but we will have rods, reel, and lures available for participants to use. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to tie flies? Join the Shoal Creek staff, MAKO fly fishers, and Bud's Bait in this fly-tying series designed for beginners and experts alike. This session will be held at Bud's Bait. Each session will build off of the previous session, so attendance for all sessions is encouraged. All materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own vice and tools. Space is limited. This session will be held at Bud's Bait on East 13th Street in Joplin.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-58229226-creepy#/

Come to Wildcat Glades on October 12th for a unique photo opportunity with creepy and crawlie creatures! For just $25, you can have your picture taken with spooky critters for original fall photos. You can pose as an individual, a couple, a small group, or a family. It's also a great idea for a unique date night!

This event is a fundraiser for Wildcat Glades Nature Group. Our wonderful volunteer and professional photographer, Brad Mace, will be taking the photos. The creepy and crawlie creatures will be provided by Wildcat volunteers.

You will be given a thumb drive to take with you and have as many photos printed at your favorite photo developer. (Walgreens, Walmart, or on-line)

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/211616

Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation, but it can be dangerous and ineffective when not used properly. This workshop will provide basic information about how to plan and execute a prescribed burn for grassland management.

Additional Information: Instructed by: Prescribed burning can be a valuable tool for managing native plant diversity and controlling undesirable vegetation, but it can be dangerous and ineffective when not used properly. This workshop will provide basic information about how to plan and execute a prescribed burn for grassland and forested management. Participants will learn about burn equipment, burn line installation, safe weather parameters, ignition operations, and other techniques to safely conduct a prescribed burn

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-57826224-nature#/

Nature Journaling will be taught by local artist, Ash Srinual.
A nature journal is a way to focus our attention and crystalize our observations, thoughts, and experiences. Come join us and learn the skills to expand your natural curiosity and see the little secrets of the natural world! You do not need to be an artist or a naturalist to begin. Just bring a sketchbook or notebook, a pencil, and a sense of curiosity.
For ages 16+ Class size is limited.

Stop by the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center any time between 10:30am- 2:30pm to learn more about Missouri’s mammals by looking at their skulls and furs. How many can you identify?

Come join us in removing invasive wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed native critters, and they also help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will teach you how to identify and remove wintercreeper and we encourage you to discover the plants and animals that live in this area. We would love to help you identify and learn more about anything you find.

We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then take a short walk to the work site. Please dress for the weather and working outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun! We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles. You are welcome to work the full three hours or leave whenever you need to, we are glad to have you with us for as long as you are able. If you need to come in late just walk the trail west of the parking lot and you will find us!

With their large, orange wings and their impressive yearly migration, the iconic monarch butterfly has become one of the most recognizable of its kind. Join us for Little Acorns: Migrating Monarchs to take a deeper look into the fascinating life of the monarch butterfly and make a butterfly craft to take home with you!

https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/210990

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-ghostly3#/

Step into a wonder-filled evening as Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales invites families to embark on a magical hike through a hidden portion of the Wildcat trails. Along softly lit pathways winding beneath fluttering leaves, adventure takes center stage as each turn reveals a beloved character from folklore and fable—greet Snow White beneath the moonlit canopy, exchange wishes with Tinkerbell amidst twinkling lights, listen for the mysterious call of the coyote, and wander into the storybook world of Hansel & Gretel.
As you journey, volunteer guides dressed as scribes share tales and insights about our native forest animals, weaving education seamlessly into each enchanting moment. The woods come alive with stories, laughter, and discovery, making this more than just a walk—it’s an immersive experience where magic and learning meet.
The evening culminates in a cozy woodland clearing, with steaming hot cocoa and fresh-baked cookies to warm both hands and hearts. Designed for families of all ages, Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales transforms the outdoors into a realm of imagination and wonder, ensuring memories that will linger long after the last marshmallow melts.
Don your most enchanting costume and slip on your shoes fit for grand adventures, for a magical gathering awaits! This wondrous and completely free festival is conjured by a merry band of volunteers and staff—step into the tale and join the merriment!

Groups of fifteen adventurers will be gathered, each group setting off on their journey every ten minutes. To ensure you don’t miss your enchanted quest, arrive at least five minutes before your chosen hour. Should your plans change under the silver moon, simply erase your name from the scroll of registration. And if you find yourself lost or in need of guidance, seek help using the enchanted number or mystical address provided.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E044DA4A72DA4F94-ghostly3#/

Step into a wonder-filled evening as Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales invites families to embark on a magical hike through a hidden portion of the Wildcat trails. Along softly lit pathways winding beneath fluttering leaves, adventure takes center stage as each turn reveals a beloved character from folklore and fable—greet Snow White beneath the moonlit canopy, exchange wishes with Tinkerbell amidst twinkling lights, listen for the mysterious call of the coyote, and wander into the storybook world of Hansel & Gretel.
As you journey, volunteer guides dressed as scribes share tales and insights about our native forest animals, weaving education seamlessly into each enchanting moment. The woods come alive with stories, laughter, and discovery, making this more than just a walk—it’s an immersive experience where magic and learning meet.
The evening culminates in a cozy woodland clearing, with steaming hot cocoa and fresh-baked cookies to warm both hands and hearts. Designed for families of all ages, Ghostly Glades Glowing Trails & Fairy Tales transforms the outdoors into a realm of imagination and wonder, ensuring memories that will linger long after the last marshmallow melts.
Don your most enchanting costume and slip on your shoes fit for grand adventures, for a magical gathering awaits! This wondrous and completely free festival is conjured by a merry band of volunteers and staff—step into the tale and join the merriment!

Groups of fifteen adventurers will be gathered, each group setting off on their journey every ten minutes. To ensure you don’t miss your enchanted quest, arrive at least five minutes before your chosen hour. Should your plans change under the silver moon, simply erase your name from the scroll of registration. And if you find yourself lost or in need of guidance, seek help using the enchanted number or mystical address provided.