SEVEN PONDS NATURE CENTER
Winter Programs for 2024-2025
Exploring the winter world can be a wondrous experience with endless possibilities for adventure. If you are not sure what these adventures may entail, come out to Seven Ponds and we can help you out. Look over this winter's offerings of activities and make plans to join us as we explore winter's nature. Seven Ponds offers something for everyone from preschoolers and families to adults. Mark your calendars for some programs in our Winter Series, seasonal activities, or WinterFest and let the winter adventures begin! Most activities are $3.00 for members and $5.00 for adults non-members (13+) unless otherwise noted. For more information call 810-796-3200. Pre-registration is required for all programs, and registering online is quick and easy.
ALL programs require pre-registration. Registration will open December 1 at 9:00 AM.
Click the program title for the registration link - please register online.
DECEMBER
First Day of Winter Walk
Saturday, December 21st, 2:00 PM
Let’s hit the trails and welcome this new season with open arms. We’ll take a relaxing stroll and talk about all things winter. Drop-ins are welcome.
Lapeer County Christmas Bird Count at Seven Ponds
Saturday, December 28th, 8:00 am
Join in on this nationwide National Audubon Society bird survey by helping count birds at Seven Ponds.
End of Year Walk
Sunday, December 29th, 2:00 PM
Come along on a stroll! We’d love to celebrate another year of stewardship, conservation, and community with you at Seven Ponds. Drop-ins are welcome.
Holiday Closures
Tuesday, December 24
Wednesday, December 25
Tuesday, December 31
Wednesday, January 1
JANUARY
Explore the Collections
Saturday, January 4th, 2:00 PM
Ever wonder what’s in those big cabinets in the back room? What makes a good specimen? Join one of our naturalists as we look through some of the interesting animal and nature items in our extensive collections!
Winter Craft Hour
Sunday, January 19th, 2:00 PM
Is being more crafty one of your resolutions for the new year? Come out and make some fun nature crafts! This program is best for participants over the age of 7. Registration for this program closes on Wednesday, January 15th.
WINTERFEST
Saturday, January 25, 10:00 AM-3:00 PM
Our annual winter celebration is fun for the whole family. There will be hot dogs for roasting over an open fire. Activities will include pond dipping, lawn games, traditional ice cutting, ice skating on Treetop Pond, snowman building contest, a bake sale, and interpretive trail walks. If there is not sufficient snow or ice, alternative activities will be provided.
FEBRUARY
Environmental Science Merit Badge Day
Saturday, February 1st, 10:00 AM-3:30 PM
Scouts will learn about environmental science through observation and hands-on activities. They will leave having completed all of the requirements to earn their Environmental Science Merit Badge. Scouts will be given a 30 minute break for lunch. Scouts must complete requirements 1, 2, and 6 prior to the program.
Winter Story Hour
Wednesday, February 5th, 10:00 AM
Isn't winter the best time to curl up with a good book? Join us for a cozy winter-themed story and crafts! This program is best for children from 3 years old to 6 years old.
Citizen Science Saturday
Saturday, February 8th, 1:00 PM
Would you like to be a scientist?We will discuss how you can participate in winter citizen science projects.
Winter Woody Plant ID
Saturday, February 22nd, 1:00 PM
Have you ever wondered how to identify trees and shrubs in the winter? Join our naturalist for a hike as we talk bark and buds!
CHECK OUT OUR 2025 WINTER SERIES!
Each winter Seven Ponds sponsors the Winter Series, a series of programs highlighted by noted naturalists and photographers, live animals, fascinating natural history, and enjoyment for all ages. Sessions are open to everyone, but pre-registration is required. Come out for one or all of these programs. Register by clicking on the program title. Fee: $3 (non-members $5).
Reptiles from Around the World
Tim Muxlow
Muxlow Exotics
Sunday, January 26, 2024, 2:00 PM
Join Muxlow Exotics as they take us on an adventure around the world to learn about “creepy” and “crawly” reptiles. We will experience the extraordinary during this interactive, live animal program. Don’t be afraid, but do prepare to have fun!
Manoomin: The Story of Wild Rice in Michigan
Barbara J. Barton
Author
Sunday, February 2, 2025, 2:00 PM
Barbara Barton will take us on a journey through the rich history and tradition of wild rice in Michigan, and its importance to the Anishinaabek people who live here. She will focus on the history, culture, biology, economics, and spirituality surrounding this sacred plant. This story weaves between the worlds of the Anishinaabek and the European colonizers, contrasting their different perspectives and divergent relationships with Manoomin.
A Year in the Life of the Chickadee
Adrianna Allen
Naturalist
Seven Ponds Nature Center
Sunday, February 9, 2025, 2:00 PM
Come join our banditry! In this program we'll follow the seasonal adventures of our backyard friends, the Black-capped Chickadee. Don't underestimate these common birds; their brains and bravery will surprise you!
Fungi of Michigan
Lorenzo Lo Piccolo
20+ Year Fungi Enthusiast
Sunday, February 16, 2025, 2:00 PM
Did you know that fungi have a kingdom of their own? Come and learn about these intriguing organisms. The program will cover topics such as: introduction into the fungi kingdom, foraging tips and sustainability, fungi identification and safety, and discussions about Michigan specific species. Lorenzo will have fungi samples to aid with the 90 minute presentation.
Raptors of Michigan
Wildlife Recovery Association
Sunday, February 23, 2025, 2:00 PM
Hawks, owls, eagles, oh my! Do you want to learn all about the raptors that make Michigan their home? Join us as Wildlife Recovery gives us a chance to see these amazing birds up close and personal.