Get back to nature at the LEC

Posted On: January 6, 2021

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 in January.

“Get back on track” hike: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 9. It’s a new year, so join the fun and get a healthy start while discovering the benefits of hiking. Participants will trek their way up and around the ancient dunes of Lyonia Preserve, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the beauty nature has to offer.

Winter sunset over Lyonia: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14. Enjoy a panoramic view of the sun setting over Lyonia Preserve during this short hike. Bring a flashlight.

Remarkable right whales: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16. With around 400 remaining, North Atlantic right whales are some of the most endangered whales in the world. They have been sighted off the Florida coastlines between December and April. Julie Albert, who oversees the North Atlantic Right Whale Conservation Program for the Marine Resources Council, will explain why these whales come to our area, why they are endangered, and what residents can do to help protect this species. The presentation will be presented online and in the LEC classroom. An online link will be provided upon registration.

Creature feature: 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21. Did you know squirrels use a wide range of calls to communicate? In honor of National Squirrel Appreciation Day, discover more about these acrobatic, smart and adaptable creatures. LEC staff will discuss their natural habitats, behaviors and the important role they play in local ecosystems during this classroom presentation.

Winter bird walk: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23. Join LEC staff on a leisurely walk through Lyonia Preserve’s trails to see which birds are out and about. Winter visitors such as American robins and Eastern phoebes may be sighted among the preserve’s Florida Scrub jay residents.

Meandering manatees: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30. Learn about these unique Florida treasures, their diet, behaviors and seasonal travels during this virtual program. Staff will also discuss volunteer opportunities, such as Manatee Watch, and how you can help one of Florida’s most precious species. Participants can join us in our classroom or online from your computer, tablet or smartphone. Registration is required for this virtual program. An online link will be provided upon registration.

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.