Get back to nature at the LEC
Posted On: October 27, 2020
Discover Volusia County’s native plants and wildlife during free outdoor hikes and indoor programs at Lyonia Environmental Center (LEC), 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona.
Registration is required; call386-789-7207, ext. #21028. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
Staff will offer the following programs, which are limited to 10 persons each to allow for social distancing.
Virtual storytime: 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 5. Children ages 2-7 can join LEC staff from their home for a reading of “Spiders.” After the story, children can follow along as an LEC volunteer guides them through an activity. An adult must register and be present. An online link and list of supplies will be provided upon registration.
Autumn animal abodes hike: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7. Venture out on the Lyonia Preserve trails, where LEC staff will explain the strategies animals use to survive colder temperatures and where they spend their winter.
Nature movie: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7. Watch “Magic of the Snowy Owl” and observe as filmmakers provide an intimate look at the snowy owl, a bird made popular by Harry Potter’s faithful companion, Hedwig. Though “snowies” naturally stand out for their beauty and intelligence, it is their determination and survival skills that are truly magical in their bleak arctic home.
Sunset stroll over Lyonia: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12. Enjoy a late afternoon stroll into Lyonia Preserve. Participants will enjoy a panoramic view of the sun setting over the trails.
Nature sketch and stroll: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14. Join an LEC volunteer on a leisurely stroll through Lyonia Preserve. Afterward, reflect and sketch your nature inspired design. This program is open to beginners and experienced artists. Guidance will be given. Participants should bring their own sketching materials.
Creature feature: 3 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17. Did you know that not all scorpions have venom? LEC staff will share some interesting facts about whip scorpions, also known as vinegaroons. During this classroom presentation, staff will discuss their natural habitats, behaviors and the important roles they play in the ecosystem.
Let’s talk turkey hike: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. Clear your mind of holiday preparations during this guided hike in Lyonia Preserve. LEC staff will discuss some interesting facts about Florida’s native turkeys and search for tracks they may have left behind.
It’s a shellabration! 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28. Learn the differences between turtles and tortoises, pick up some fun facts about local species, and meet the LEC’s resident turtle ambassadors. Staff will also discuss some citizen science projects, such as Watchback Watchers, and learn how the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission tracks gopher tortoises.
If you will be walking through Lyonia Preserve, wear closed-toe shoes, bring water, and be prepared to hike on sugar-sand trails. Learn about other upcoming events at lyoniapreserve.com.
LEC staff has established public program procedures based on current guidelines. These procedures are subject to change based on guidance at the local, state and federal levels. Programs may be modified at any time as needed.
