Public Programs

2022/2023 Programs

September 11, 2022

Birds of Seminole Forest

Ralph Risch is the Florida Scrub-Jay Biologist for Seminole State Forest in Lake County. Thanks to Ralph’s long-term management, the State Forest has a growing population of Florida Scrub-Jays. Eastern Towhees, Brown Thrashers, White-eyed Vireos, and other birds that inhabit the scrub that makes up much of the State Forest. The Forest’s wetter habitats along Blackwater Creek host different migratory, wintering, and resident birds. Ralph will share his extensive natural history information about these birds and the State Forest.

October 9, 2022

Big Sit at Lake Jesup Park

CANCELLED:

As water is VERY high from the hurricane, and probably won’t be going down significantly in another week, we’re sad to cancel. 

This event replaces our regular monthly meeting. This is an annual, international event hosted by New Haven (Connecticut) Bird Club. They compile the count data. We sit inside a circle and count all the bird species we see or hear. Tent available for shade. All levels and ages of birders are welcome. Come for an hour or two or for the entire time. Bring your own binoculars, chair, water, and snacks. Lake Jesup Park, 5951 Sanford Avenue, Sanford. 7:00 am-12 noon. Accessible parking space. No restrooms.

We welcome all those who would like to enjoy time in nature. This gathering is accessible for all including those who have a disability, persons with a mobility challenge, blind or low vision, deaf or hard of hearing, persons who are neurodivergent or persons with any other intellectual, developmental, or physical disability or concern. https://gis.audubon.org/birdability/

November 13, 2022

Disney’s Avian Conservation Program and Purple Martin Research

Dr. Jason Fischer, Conservation Program Manager for avian projects with Disney Conservation. Dr. Fischer has been fascinated by birds and our relationship to them ever since he first started taking pictures of birds as a child. His graduate research focused on avian urban ecology, and he now brings this passion to managing Disney’s avian conservation efforts. His work involves supporting international avian conservation efforts with the Disney Conservation Fund. He also develops research and engagement programs focused on the bird species, including Purple Martins, that call Walt Disney Parks and Resorts home.

December 11, 2022

Preserving Seminole County

Jim Duby is the Seminole County Natural Lands Program Manager. He will provide an overview of the Seminole County Natural Lands Program and what Seminole County has accomplished through its Natural Lands Program, including many photos of landscapes and wildlife. You may discover some new places to hike and go birding!

January 8, 2023

St. Johns River by Lisa Rinaman, Riverkeeper

The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida and its most significant one for commercial and recreational use. At 310 miles long, it flows north and winds through or borders twelve counties. Numerous lakes are formed by the river including Lake Monroe in Sanford. Lisa will explain some of the ecological challenges relating to the river and her role as the chief advocate and the public’s voice for the river.

Lisa Rinaman was a former staff member for Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton. She has helped implement numerous environmental initiatives and policies. Lisa was instrumental in leading the effort to develop and implement irrigation, fertilizer, and Florida Friendly landscaping ordinances to better protect the St. Johns and local waterways. Also, she has played a key role in securing state funding for water quality improvements. She has also been a key advocate for the Free the Ocklawaha initiative.

February 12, 2023

Caracaras

Susan Shaw and Brendon Quinton are senior scientists with Environmental Science Associates.  Together, they have participated in multiple Caracara (Caracara cheriway) nest surveys throughout the known distribution/range of the species in Florida. They will share their knowledge and experience from these surveys, as well as some interesting facts about these unique and threatened birds.

March 12, 2023

Orlando Wetlands

(Time Change – “Spring Forward”)

Rachel Kessler is the Public Outreach Coordinator for Orlando Wetlands Park. The Park is 1,650 acres of man-made wetlands designed to provide advanced treatment for reclaimed water from the City of Orlando and other local cities.  Rachel will explain how Park staff manage the wetlands for the treatment of reclaimed water while maintaining a healthy balance among flora, fauna, and biogeochemical processes.  She will also highlight some of the birds and other animals observed there. 

April 16, 2023

Florida Owls and Baby Bird Rescue at the Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland

Note the date change to the 3rd Sunday since Easter Sunday is April 9th this year.

Daisy Fiore is the Sr. Coordinator for Education at the Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland. She previously worked in education at SeaWorld Orlando, Brandywine Zoo in Delaware, and served in multiple roles at Disney. Daisy will provide interesting facts about the various owls seen in Florida. She will also explain what to do if you find a baby bird and how the Center manages all those baby bird rescues.