Meadowside Nature Center, Montgomery Parks

08/11/2026

On August 22, nerd out with your local nature center crew with a bonanza of board games! Peruse through a suite of nature-themed board games in this choose-your-own adventure gaming meetup. The nature center will provide some light snacks and games.

Learn more and register: https://mocoparks.org/4wsFOde

Photo: Ylanite Koppens

08/10/2026

Ready to plan your fall? Montgomery Parks’ fall program registration is now open! Be first to register for programs like Yoga for Strength and Vitality, pickleball classes, History Hour, and family nature programs. Sign up for fall programs: https://mocoparks.org/30iiV2h

08/06/2026

On August 13, get crafty with recyclables for animals! Join us in a group crafting session to create enrichment objects for owls, hawks, and a vulture.

Learn more and register: https://mocoparks.org/3TYB6p1

Photo: Muhammad Khawar Nazir

08/04/2026

Ever looked an owl in the eyes and wondered why some have piercing yellow stares and others have deep, dark pools for eyes? For International Owl Day, let’s take a look. Owl eye coloring isn’t random, it’s actually a guide for telling us when that animal likes to hunt. While some owl break the rules, here are some general facts.

Yellow eyes: crepuscular hunting. Like Great Horned Owls, they do a lot of their hunting as the sun is rising and setting, a brighter environment for owls.

Brown eyes: nocturnal hunting. Barred owls hunt during the absolute night.
Nature is amazing. Take a look at our raptor photos and tell me you’re not mesmerized.

Want to know more? Check out this journal article: https://mocoparks.org/4yNIJ1K

08/04/2026

Break out the pumpkin spice! Our Fall Guide just dropped! Check out exciting fall programs like archery classes, kayaking, and book clubs; plus, special events including Ale Trail, Harvest Festival, and Birdability. Make a wish list of your favorites programs, and then don’t forget to register on Monday, August 10. View the 2026 Fall Guide: https://mocoparks.org/30iiV2h

08/01/2026

We are in the last few weeks of summer! Grab your spot in a program while you can and soak up those last few days of summer. Highlights include:
Aug. 13 - Crafting for Animals
Aug. 22 - Nature Nerd Board Games
Aug. 28 – Campfire Cooking
Learn more and register at: https://mocoparks.org/3ZACvAI

07/29/2026

On August 1, the W.A.N.D.E.R. series takes you on an immersive morning walk to find useful plants growing all around us. Entering the forest opens the door to nature’s medicine cabinet, craft drawer and kitchen pantry!

Learn more and register: https://mocoparks.org/4wBD3WQ

Photo: Fauxels

07/28/2026

Please play with your food?

Gilly, a black vulture, primarily gets her water through her food. But what about an extra treat to stay cool? As a form of enrichment, our Raptor Trainer places ice cubes in her water dish. Gilly doesn’t eat them, but enjoys exploring and playing with her floating popsicles. She even sometimes stands in the cooler water which helps cool her feet.

07/23/2026

Did you know that vanilla flavor is rumored to come from the goo from a beaver butt?? According to Smithsonian, while the rumor isn’t entirely false, beavers DO secrete a sweet-smelling goo which is used to mark their territory.

Humans have been using castoreum (the goo) for more than 2,000 years, mostly to cure ailments. And in the early 20th century, castoreum began appearing in foods to add a vanilla flavor. Is it in your ice cream? Not anymore!

Don’t believe it? Read the entire article here:

Despite internet claims, castoreum—a substance found in beaver glands—is rarely used today as a food flavoring

07/15/2026

On July 17, join park naturalists for an immersive mindfulness experience in nature. We’ll explore how our q***r identities are an integral part of the natural world and practice mindfulness activities while strolling through Meadowside’s forests. The program begins at 6 pm and is best for ages 18+. Registration fee is $7.

Learn more and register: https://mocoparks.org/3QzXT9C