Get Outside in July

Natural Fireworks

Throughout July, flowers burst open, especially on prairies and other sunny habitats, and look like fireworks, just in time for Independence Day. Just a few to look out for include black-eyed Susans, purple coneflowers, sunflowers, blazing stars, and so much more. For a guide to Missouri’s wildflowers, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Zri. With the explosion of blooming wildflowers in open, sunny places, a huge variety of pollinators — bees, wasps, flies, beetles, and butterflies — are visiting them as well.

Be Bee Aware

“Don’t Step on a Bee Day” started in the United Kingdom and is celebrated worldwide on July 10. The day aims to create awareness about the conservation of bees and highlights the plight they face due to the destruction of their habitats. For more information about pollinators and their importance to our ecosystems, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/4gM.

Blackberries Abound

Cobblers, and jellies, and jams … oh my! It’s blackberry season in Missouri. It’s cute to say, “blackberries are red when they’re green,” but it’s true. They are red until they ripen to a deep black, which occurs through August. Pick enough for your favorite recipes but be sure and leave some for wildlife, especially the birds. They help to spread the seeds from blackberries, so bushes can continue to germinate in new locations. For more information, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/4Sq.

Reconnect with Nature

Adventure can happen anywhere. Download the free MO Con Mag app to take the Missouri Conservationist wherever you go.

Insects: Firefly Fun

Friday, July 7, 6–9 p.m.

Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center

2289 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

Registration is not required. For more information, call 573-290-5218 or visit short.mdc.mo.gov/4AQ.

All ages.

During warm summer nights, nature provides us with one of the most spectacular fireworks displays. The creator of this lightshow is the tiny firefly. Bring the whole family out for fun firefly activities, crafts, and presentations as we learn all about these amazing insects.

Discover Nature: Nature Center Game Night

Thursday, July 13, 6:30–9:30 p.m.

Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center

2289 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

Registration is not required. For more information, call 573-290-5218 or visit short.mdc.mo.gov/4AA.

Ages 12 and up.

Come join the board game club for nature lovers! This monthly program will begin with a short program highlighting a different nature-themed board game and how it relates to Missouri’s mission to have world class fish, forests, and wildlife. After the intro … let the games begin! There will be games available for all experience levels, though on average, these games have a higher complexity level than family board game players may be used to. These games are most appropriate for ages 12 and up. Bring any snacks and non-alcoholic beverages you wish, as well as nature-themed board games to share from your collection.

Find more events in your area at mdc.mo.gov/events.

Natural Events to See This Month

Here’s what’s going on in the natural world.

• Freshwater jellyfish swim in warm waters.
• Male fathead minnows stay with eggs.
• Northern bobwhites call.
• Pickerel frogs retreat to caves, escaping the heat.
• Passion flowers bloom.