SEVEN PONDS NATURE CENTER
WINTER PROGRAMS 2025-2026
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 FOR WINTER PROGRAMS IS NOW OPEN!
Click the program title for the registration link - please register online.
WINTER SERIES 2026
Gabrielle Cerberville
Author
Sunday, January 25th, 2:00 PM
Gabrielle Cerberville, also known as the “Chaotic Forager” online, is a “celebrated foraging educator, community mycologist, and climate advocate.” Her new book, Gathered, is an illustrated field guide, cookbook, and memoir combined. If you’re interested in mushrooms, foraging, and reconnecting with nature, this is the event for you! Copies of the book will be available for sale.
Sarah Matuszak
Wildlife Rehabilitator
Sunday, February 1st, 2:00 PM
Join Sarah Matuszak, local naturalist and licensed wildlife rehabilitator with Happy Snapper Rescue to learn more about Michigan’s turtles, turtle rescue, and how you can help!
Dr. Allen Kurta
Biologist
Sunday, February 8th, 2:00 PM
This program will explore hibernation, why bats do it, and where in the state hibernating bats are found. Dr. Allen Kurta, one of Michigan’s leading bat experts, will discuss the overwintering behavior of the nine species of bats in Michigan and concentrate on the species that overwinter underground, in mines and caves. The presentation will include an introduction to white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that has killed millions of bats in eastern North America.
Madison Christol
Naturalist
Sunday, February 15th, 2:00 PM
Did you know that the world’s longest predator-prey study is happening right here in Michigan? Learn about the history of the program and find out what’s happening right now on Isle Royale!
Adrianna Allen
Naturalist
Sunday, February 22nd, 2:00 PM
Though a lawn of green, cut grass may look wonderful to us, it is essentially a dead ecosystem. Learn with a naturalist about how to make your yard not just a beautiful space for humans, but a thriving oasis full of plants and wildlife.
DECEMBER
Saturday, December 13th, 2:00-4:00 PM
Get ready for the holidays by creating beautiful natural ornaments! These are the perfect gift, for yourself or loved ones. This program is intended for those age 14+. Supplies provided. Cost: members: $5, non-members: $7
Sunday, 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 27th, 8:00 AM
Do you have a passion for birds or community science? If so, please join us for the National Audubon Society's annual Christmas Bird Count. Come bird with a naturalist as we hike throughout Seven Ponds Nature Center’s property to contribute to over a century of data! The count occurs for most of the day, so stay as little or as long as you like, but you must arrive at 8:00 am to attend. Binoculars will be available to borrow. This program is intended for those age 18+
Holiday Closures
Wednesday, December 24
Thursday, December 25
Wednesday, December 31
Thursday, January 1
JANUARY
Sunday, 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!!
Sunday, January 11th, 2026, 2:00 pm
Come meet the critters of Critter Corner! Our reptile and amphibian ambassadors have so much to teach us. We’ll feel shells and scales and talk about Michigan’s amazing animals!
Saturday, January 24th, 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 (please bring your own skates!), snowman building contest, a bake sale, and interpretive trail walks. If there is not sufficient snow or ice, alternative activities will be provided.
Wednesday, January 28th, 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!
Saturday, January 31, 1:30 pm
Bring the beauty of nature to your front door! Using natural materials, we will make and decorate wreaths for you to take home. This program is intended for those age 14+. Supplies provided. Cost: members: $5, non-members: $7
FEBRUARY
Winter Storytime: “Walking on a Trail”
Saturday, February 7th, 10:30 am
Join us for a cozy storytime! Author, Allison Bartlette will read her new children’s picture book followed by some fun activities.
Saturday, February 21, 2:00 pm
Come snowshoeing with us and enjoy Seven Ponds in the winter! In the event of no snow, an interpretive walk will still take place. Snowshoes are provided.
WINTER 2025-2026 BIRD WALKS
Saturday, December 20th, 6:00 pm
Join us at the nature center as we learn about the owls that call Seven Ponds home! We’ll look at taxidermy and then go on a night hike. This program is intended for those age 13+.
Saturday, January 17, 9:00 am
Come spend the morning with a naturalist as we watch our feeders and learn about the birds visiting them! Coffee and tea will be provided. This program is intended for those age 13+.
Saturday, February 28, 8:00 am
Winter birding is in full swing at the nature center. Let’s hit the trails and see how many species we can find! This program is intended for those age 13+.
