Nature activities for the family

NEST nature days begin

The new Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science and Technology will open its doors for an afternoon of exploration on Friday, April 6, Tuesday, April 10, and Friday, April 13, from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1-4 p.m. at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton.

Walk the grounds of the historic Reasoner Tract and observe botanical giants collected from around the world. Explore the canopy boardwalk among the banyans, climb to the top of the crow’s nest, take in panoramic views, and exit from the building on a slide. Learn about upcoming programs and new additions to Robinson Preserve.

This program is suitable for all ages, and no reservations are required. For more information, call 941-742-5923, ext. 6039.

Glide through the preserve

Explore the salt marshes of Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, with the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department’s nature guide from WayneAdventures on Friday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to noon.

This is an easy paddle that can be enjoyed by beginning kayakers, and it is suitable for adults who can meet the county’s minimum eligibility requirements. Participants must have their own canoe or kayak and safety gear. All participants must wear a life jacket.

Call 941-742-5757, ext. 7, to reserve.

Underground celebration

Celebrate one of Florida’s most important residents, the gopher tortoise, at Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, with a guided tour of Manatee County’s newly established gopher tortoise habitat from 2:30-4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 7.

Learn about the gopher tortoise reintroduction program and other efforts to protect this interesting species. Visit some active burrows and discover ways to help gopher tortoises in your area.

This program is suitable for all adults. Reservations are required. Call 941-742-5923, ext. 6036, or email elena.burke@mymanatee.org.

Tortoise talk at the NEST

The public is invited to stop by the new Mosaic Center for Nature, Exploration, Science and Technology at Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, on Tuesday, April 10, from 2-4 p.m. for an afternoon of exploration in celebration of annual Gopher Tortoise Day.

Learn about Florida’s keystone species, meet the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department’s new education gopher tortoise and explore the new classroom space at the NEST.

This program is suitable for all ages. No reservations are required. For more information, email amy.may@mymanatee.org or call 941-742-5923, ext. 6044.

Sierra Club meetingThe Sierra Club of Manatee/Sarasota will hold a Manatee Club meeting on Monday, April 9 at 1:30 p.m. at the Bradenton Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., for an update and a discussion of issues. Email Marsha Wikle at nw121150@gmail.com for more information.