Daggerwing offers Butterflies, Dipnetting and Alligators in July

Ruddy Daggerwing Butterfly. [Photo by Sandi Smolker]

Nestled within Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park west of Boca Raton, Daggerwing Nature Center is one of Palm Beach County's best places to experience native wetlands.

Whether introducing preschoolers to butterflies or teaching families how to navigate with a map and compass, July's programs offer visitors of all ages an opportunity to connect with nature.

Mother Nature & Me: Beautiful Butterflies

Tuesday, July 7, 10:30 a.m.; ages 2-5 with guardian; $4 per child

Toddlers and preschoolers can explore the colorful world of butterflies through stories, live animals, hands-on activities and a themed craft designed especially for young learners.

Dipnetting

Thursday, July 9, 9:30 a.m.; ages 8 and up; $10

Discover the fascinating creatures that live beneath the surface of local wetlands. Participants will collect and identify small aquatic animals while learning about their role in the ecosystem. Closed-toe shoes that can get wet are recommended.

Daggerwing Visits the Library: Alligators

Tuesday, July 14, 3 p.m.; ages 5 and up; free

Head to the Glades Road Branch Library for an up-close look at one of Florida's most iconic reptiles. The program includes live animal ambassadors from Daggerwing Nature Center and a discussion about alligators and their habitats.

Sensational Snakes

Saturday, July 18, 10:30 a.m.; all ages; $5

Meet one of Florida's most misunderstood reptiles during this family-friendly program. A naturalist will introduce participants to live snakes while sharing fascinating facts about their behavior and importance to the environment.

Orienteering

Wednesday, July 22, 9:30 a.m.; ages 8 and up; $10

Learn the basics of map reading and compass navigation before putting those new skills to the test on an outdoor adventure course. Participants should bring water, sun protection and closed-toe shoes.

Located at 11435 Park Access Road in Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park, west of Boca Raton, Daggerwing Nature Center is operated by the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department and provides year-round opportunities to explore South Florida's unique wetland habitats.

Advance registration is needed for most programs and can be completed online at discover.pbc.gov under "Online Services" or go to the Nature Center Hub and click on the Daggerwing Nature Center.

Learn more about the Daggerwing Nature Center here.