Events

Join MDC naturalists and area birders as we discover the avian life that calls Runge home. These short birding walks are for all experience levels. We will gather near the front doors of the nature center. Binoculars and field guides will be provided for those that need them. Registration preferred. Ages 8+

Butterflies are amazing and vital parts of nature. Flutter like a butterfly with us and learn about how the Monarch butterfly makes its magical trek to Mexico every fall.

“ . . . and fish is fish and that’s that!” So writes Leo Lionni in his classic book, Fish Is Fish. We will explore their watery world this month through crafts, activities, and a story. Registration required. Ages 0-2

Explore trees from the inside out; how does a tree grow and how does it make food? We’ll examine the anatomy of trees and how they produce food. Then we will go outside to meet the trees and monitor them for their health.

Explore trees from the inside out; how does a tree grow and how does it make food? We’ll examine the anatomy of trees and how they produce food. Then we will go outside to meet the trees and monitor them for their health.

This program includes shotgun safety, operation, shooting fundamentals, maintenance, and safe storage. Equipment and ammunition can be provided; you may bring your own firearm and ammunition to the live-fire session.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to properly chase catfish in your local body of water? We have the class for you! This is a single class that is made to teach you everything you will need to know. The class will begin as any other, only catch is, you will already be fishing! Fishing rods will be set up in wait as we teach and talk about catfish. We will display the different types of catfish, the different types of rods, reels, and gear used to catch catfish, and also teach you what kind of baits to use and where!

Join Naturalist Morgan Wyatt to discover which hummingbirds visit Missouri, their habits, which plants attract them, and the best ways to maintain hummingbird feeders. Naturalist Notes is a regular program where a naturalist showcases one of their favorite nature topics. Please include a valid email address when you register so we can send you a virtual program link. This program will not be recorded. All ages welcome but this program is designed for ages 10 and up.

Do your little ones enjoy being in nature? Appreciate the natural world through a story, songs, movement, and play as you sit under the canopy for a “nature” adventure. Come see the topic we are exploring this month. Younger children and siblings are welcome. Meet the naturalist at the West End Picnic Site. Please dress for the weather.

An atlatl is a hunting tool created more than 20,000 years ago. It was often used to hunt megafauna such as wooly mammoth. Join us as we explore the history of the atlatl and how it is used today. Create you very own atlatl to take home, learn the technique for using it, and give it a try at Runge. Registration required. Ages 13-17