Online Learning Series for Adults
Have you ever wanted to learn the names of the birds that visit your backyard, the wildflowers along the trail, or even which animal left that footprint in the mud? Montgomery Parks is pleased to offer a new online learning series for adults that teaches you to recognize the most common species of Montgomery County. Led by our expert Parks staff, you’ll practice identification skills, learn the best ways to see wildlife, and be empowered to practice conservation in your own neighborhood. Montgomery County is a biodiverse place with so many interesting plants and animals, and we can’t wait to share them with you!
What’s Included
- Evolution & Taxonomy. How the origins of species inform what we call them today.
- Anatomy & Adaptations. How animals move, sense their world, and shift their behavior with the seasons.
- Ecological Function. The role of plants and animals in their landscape.
- Biodiversity. An overview of the variety of life within Montgomery County.
- Identification. How to tell species apart including which field marks distinguish close look-alikes.
- Conservation. Understanding threats to our native species and how you can help protect them.
- Get Out There! Recommendations on which local parks to visit, helpful gear or tools for viewing wildlife, as well as guides or apps.
Benefits
- Increase your ability to observe and identify the plants and animals around you.
- Become more confident in the outdoors.
- Discover the natural history of Montgomery County.
- Learn ways to protect threatened species in your own backyard or neighborhood.
- Be informed about the issues that affect our local landscape.
- Ask Parks’ experts your questions.
- Connect with additional resources, community groups, and programs to further your understanding.
Schedule
| Date | Class Time | Location | Class Topic | Registration Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dates below | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Full Series of Flora & Fauna Classes | Coming soon… |
| Wednesday, March 12 | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Introduction & How to be a Field Naturalist | Coming soon… |
| Wednesday, March 26 | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Mammals | Coming soon… |
| Wednesday, April 9 | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Birds | Coming soon… |
| Wednesday, April 23 | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Reptiles & Amphibians | Coming soon… |
| Wednesday, May 7 | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Insects & Invertebrates | Coming soon… |
| Wednesday, May 21 | 6pm to 9pm | Online | Plants | Coming soon… |
| Saturday, June 14 | 5pm to 9pm | To be determined | Flora & Fauna in the Field Practice what you’ve learned on a walk through the park with Naturalist staff, plus special activities and games. | Invitations will be sent to those who complete all five sessions. |
Registration
You may register for each topic a la carte ($30 per class) to suit your schedule or interests, or you may register for the entire series ($120 for 6 classes). Those that register for the entire series will receive an invitation to join us on Saturday, June 14 for a special “In the Field” class in the park.
Registration Opens Soon.
How does this series compare to the Maryland Master Naturalist program?
| Program Details | Maryland Master Naturalist Certification Program | Flora and Fauna of Montgomery County Adult Learning Series |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To provide in-depth training for Montgomery Parks’ volunteers.
This program is designed to increase not only your knowledge of local flora and fauna, but your effectiveness as a volunteer by introducing you to our diverse facilities, programs, and staff. | To provide quality classes on the County’s diverse plant and animal life, and to give participants an introduction to taxonomy, life history, field identification, and conservation. |
| Topics | All topics in the Flora & Fauna Class PLUS
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| Format | In-person meetings on Fridays from 9am to 3:30pm from March 22 to May 10.
12 hours of pre-recorded presentations to review independently. Weekly class assignments and readings. | Online meetings once per month.
Participants may sign up for the entire series or register for their favorite topics a la carte. Participants that complete the entire series will be invited to a special in-person field event in August. |
| Value | Quality, scientifically focused classes led by expert Parks’ staff.
Highly local perspective, from the best spots to see wildlife to the most important conservation issues of our County. Earn a statewide certification. Become a part of a passionate community of volunteers. | Quality, scientifically focused classes led by expert Parks’ staff.
Highly local perspective, from the best spots to see wildlife to the most important conservation issues of our County. |
| Requirements |
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| Commitments |
| None |
| Certification | Yes | No |
| Class Size | 15 participants | Unlimited |
| Cost | $250 fee paid directly to the University of Maryland’s Extension Office. | $30 per class or $120 for the 5-class bundle. |
| Register | Apply for the Master Naturalist Certification Program | Register for the Flora and Fauna Adult Learning |