Green Cay Nature Center offers July wildlife adventures

Birdwatching is just one of the many ways visitors can explore the wetlands at Green Cay Nature Center. [Photo by Diane Helentjaris]

Green Cay Nature Center is offering a range of interactive programs this July, giving nature lovers the chance to experience South Florida’s wetlands while learning about birds, butterflies, reptiles and nocturnal wildlife.

One of Palm Beach County's premier birdwatching destinations, Green Cay Nature Center features a 1½-mile elevated boardwalk winding through more than 100 acres of restored wetlands. Visitors can often spot herons, egrets, turtles, otters and countless other native species while exploring the preserve.

Bird Talk & Tour: Wetland Birds

Saturday, July 4, 9:30 a.m.; all ages; $5

Kick off the morning with a presentation about Florida's wetland birds before joining a naturalist on a one-hour guided birding tour through the wetlands. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars and field guides.

Animal Keeper for a Day

Saturday, July 11, 9:30 a.m.; ages 8 and up; $10

Go behind the scenes with animal care staff and volunteers to discover what it takes to care for the nature center's resident animals. Participants will help with feeding, cleaning and other daily responsibilities.

Butterfly Talk & Tour

Saturday, July 18, 9:30 a.m.; all ages; $5

Learn about the butterflies that call South Florida home before taking a guided walk through Green Cay's butterfly garden to observe native species.

Palm Beach County Libraries Presents: Birds

Thursday, July 23, 10 a.m.; ages 8 and under; free

Enjoy a children's story presented by a Palm Beach County librarian, followed by an up-close encounter with one of the nature center's live animal ambassadors featured in the story.

Reptiles & Amphibians: Sensational Snakes

Saturday, July 25, 9:30 a.m.; all ages; $5

This family-friendly program explores Florida's fascinating reptiles and amphibians before concluding with a guided nature walk through the wetlands.

Night Stalkers

Wednesday, July 29, 8 p.m.; ages 9 and up; $5

Experience the wetlands after dark during a naturalist-led nighttime boardwalk tour. Participants will search for nocturnal wildlife and are encouraged to bring a flashlight.

Located at 12800 Hagen Ranch Road, west of Boynton Beach, Green Cay Nature Center is operated by the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department and serves as both a wildlife refuge and an outdoor classroom dedicated to environmental education and conservation.

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 Green Cay.

Learn more about the Green Cay Nature Center here.