Equine, Pets & Wildlife   

We live in "The horse capital of the world." Join Thomas Sweeney owner of Port Royal Racing, who is also working press for Tampa Bay Downs and a multi-state licensed professional horseman.

Part 1 of this 2 part course will cover the basics from breeding to the starting gate! In Part 2 we will attend a Thoroughbred auction at the world famous Ocala Breeders Sales where many of these equine athletes will fetch upwards of $1,000,000! Tom will "escort" you "backstage" at the sales! This is a great primer on "The Sport of Kings...and Queens!

This course teaches pet owners how to examine their pets at home and monitor their health regularly. Participants will learn how to check teeth, heart rate, respiratory rate, limb function, and other essential aspects of their pet's well-being. The class also includes time for questions, giving owners practical tools and knowledge to better understand and care for their pets on a daily basis.

Learn how to take your birding to the next level using eBird. This presentation covers tips for improving your observations, submitting better checklists, and contributing valuable data to the birding community and science. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned birder, discover how to become a more effective eBirder.

A thoroughbred’s life is different from other horse breeds in that it’s controlled and monitored starting at birth and leading up to the race track.  This course covers the naming and registering of a foal, the breaking and early training, the rest period, extended intense training, the starting gate training, and then the race debut.

Enjoy a morning at Silver Springs State Park learning about the natural and cultural/historical resources of the area. Group will meet at the archway (main entrance off Rt 40) by no later than 9 a.m. Participants will spend the morning with a Park Ranger to learn about the importance of the Silver River, starting near the head spring.
After a Glass Bottom Boat tour, they will walk along the Ross Allen Boardwalk and Blue Trail to take a tram ride (uncushioned) through the Sandhill Natural Community, with the last stop at the Silver River Museum. After the museum, they will tram back to the main entrance. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and must be able to walk at least one mile, some on uneven ground.

Cost includes: park ranger tour, glass bottom boat ride, and tram ride. Students will drive to the location and meet at the Entry Arch to Silver Springs State Park by no later than 9 a.m. using the following address: 5656 East Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs FL 34488. 

Discover the fascinating story of how the Bald Eagle became the national symbol of the United States. This lecture explores its ecological role, behaviors, cultural significance, historical myths, and legacy. From Native American lore to America’s Great Seal, we will unravel the mysteries of our nation’s symbol.

Horses are engrained in or American Heritage and remain a symbol of the American West and a reminder of their profound impact on shaping the nation's history and culture. This class explores breeds of horses uniquely American.

We live in "The horse capital of the world." Join Thomas Sweeney owner of Port Royal Racing, who is also working press for Tampa Bay Downs and a multi-state licensed professional horseman.

Part 1 of this 2 part course will cover the basics from breeding to the starting gate! In Part 2 we will attend a Thoroughbred auction at the world famous Ocala Breeders Sales where many of these equine athletes will fetch upwards of $1,000,000! Tom will "escort" you "backstage" at the sales! This is a great primer on "The Sport of Kings...and Queens!

Enjoy a morning at Silver Springs State Park learning about the natural and cultural/historical resources of the area. Group will meet at the archway (main entrance off Rt 40) by no later than 9 a.m. Participants will spend the morning with a Park Ranger to learn about the importance of the Silver River, starting near the head spring.
After a Glass Bottom Boat tour, they will walk along the Ross Allen Boardwalk and Blue Trail to take a tram ride (uncushioned) through the Sandhill Natural Community, with the last stop at the Silver River Museum. After the museum, they will tram back to the main entrance. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and must be able to walk at least one mile, some on uneven ground.

Cost includes: park ranger tour, glass bottom boat ride, and tram ride. Students will drive to the location and meet at the Entry Arch to Silver Springs State Park by no later than 9 a.m. using the following address: 5656 East Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs FL 34488. 

On July 1, 2008, the Florida House of Representatives declared the Florida Cracker Horse the official state horse.  Also known as the Chickasaw Pony, Seminole Pony, Prairie Pony, Florida Horse, Florida Cow Pony or Grass Gut, the Florida Cracker is tied to the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Chickasaw Nation’s Florida roots.

Explore the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers near Dunnellon for a unique glimpse of "Old Florida" and its more modern landscapes. This two-part course begins with a classroom session focused on identifying the birds commonly found in this region of Florida. By the end, you'll be confident in recognizing many of them, from wading birds to raptors and many songbirds.
The second session features a guided three-hour boat ride with an experienced riverboat captain. We'll travel about one mile along the Rainbow River and explore as much of the Withlacoochee as time allows. Expect up-close views of magnificent birds and excellent photo opportunities. Make sure to bring your camera or binoculars!
After the trip, those interested can join for an optional lunch at a nearby riverside café to share observations and compile a bird list from the morning's adventure.
Second class date field trip directions:
Meeting at 20750 River Dr, Dunnellon, FL 34431
- Drive east down 484 to Dunnellon
- Drive 12 miles, then turn left at the light on 41
- Park in the Municipal lot in front of City Hall
- The boat sails from the Public Boat Ramp

 

It’s not just pythons. Florida is home to both native and non-native creatures that can pose risks to people, pets, and property. This class explores some of the state’s most dangerous species, from invasive pythons to local wildlife, and the challenges they create. Learn what the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is doing to address these issues, along with your legal rights when it comes to protecting your property.

We live in "The horse capital of the world." Join Thomas Sweeney owner of Port Royal Racing, who is also working press for Tampa Bay Downs and a multi-state licensed professional horseman.

Part 1 of this 2 part course will cover the basics from breeding to the starting gate! In Part 2 we will attend a Thoroughbred auction at the world famous Ocala Breeders Sales where many of these equine athletes will fetch upwards of $1,000,000! Tom will "escort" you "backstage" at the sales! This is a great primer on "The Sport of Kings...and Queens!

Discover how to make the most of birding while on a cruise. This presentation covers how to investigate top birding ports, plan your excursions, and maximize sightings during your vacation. Whether you're a casual cruiser or a dedicated birder, learn practical tips to turn your next voyage into a birding adventure.