“Earthday” is officially April 22nd, but the nature park on Stock Island is planning an extended weekend of activities:

“Birding in the Florida Keys” is the topic on Thursday, April 21st at 12:30 at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden on College Road. Mark Whiteside, M.D., longtime Keys resident and President of the Florida Keys Audubon Society, will identify and describe nesting and migratory species and where to find them. His talk with be augmented with photos by Beryn Harty, naturalist and KWBGS Docent.

Meet at the Garden Chapel. Admission is free for KWBGS members and students; $5 for others.

Never tried birding but are interested in how it is done? Come to a special “Birding for Beginners” session on Saturday, April 23rd at 9:30 am. Tropical Forest volunteer and avid birder, Pat Ayers, will introduce you to the basics – why, how and with what equipment. Come prepared for a stroll through the grounds. Meet near the Visitor Center of the Key West Tropical Forest & Garden; gate opens
​at 9 for this event. Admission is free for KWBGS members and students; $5 for others.

Celebrate Earth on Friday, April 22nd, with a bring-your-own picnic dinner at the KW Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden. Take advantage of special expanded hours, 4pm to sunset, and free admission to enjoy the park after-hours.

“Earthday” extended weekend celebration continues at Noon, Saturday, April 23rd with the opening reception for Art Garden 2016. Meet the artist at the Courtyard event, then stroll the grounds to enjoy their earth-friendly creations displayed amid the greenery.

Call 305-296-1504 or visit www.kwbgs.org for details.