Merritt Island Wildlife Association

Burrow Buddies: Discovering the World of Gopher Tortoises
2025-02-28 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 2045 Mud Lake Road, Deleon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Gopher Tortoise Education Day!
Lake Woodruff NWR, DeLeon Springs, FL
Calling all nature explorers! Join us for a fun-filled day of adventure and discovery as we learn all about Gopher Tortoises! Take part in an exciting scavenger hunt, enjoy guided hikes through the Refuge, and uncover the secrets of these fascinating reptiles and their underground burrows.
Did you know? Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge is home to many Gopher Tortoises and other protected wildlife. Stop by our interactive education stations to explore cool tortoise facts and learn about the creatures that share their burrows!
🔍 Gopher Tortoise Explorer Passport
Visit each station to collect stamps in your Explorer Passport. Complete your journey and earn a chance to win a prize!
🌿 Hands-on Fun for All Ages!
Get up close with nature through hands-on activities and discover what makes Gopher Tortoises so important to our environment. Whether you’re a young explorer or a curious adult, there’s something for everyone!
Don’t miss this exciting day of learning, adventure, and fun!

Florida Scrub Jay and Wildlife Festival
2025-02-22 09:00 - 15:00 | Lyonia Environmental Center, 2150 Eustace Ave, Deltona, FL, 32725

Waterfowl of Merritt Island NWR
2025-02-20 11:00 - 14:30 | Dixie Crossroads, 1475 Garden St, Titusville, FL, 32796, United States
Dixie Crossroads (Refuge Room),
1475 Garden St, Titusville, FL 32796
https://bit.ly/waterfowlminwr
Cost: $15 (includes Cornell Labs Waterfowl ID Series Set of 3 Folding Guides. Retail value $24). Participants will pay for their own lunch. Limited to 24 participants. Register here.
Merritt Island NWR is an important migration and wintering site for many species of waterfowl. Come learn about the ducks, geese, and other swimming birds that use the refuge for part or all of the year. Dee and David Simpson will share their pictures and give you tips and tricks on identification, and help you learn more about how waterfowl utilize the Refuge and its many wetland habitats. Afterward, we will visit some sites to put into practice some of what you learned in class.
Register here.

Discover Tanzania: Home to the World’s Greatest Overland Animal Migration
2025-02-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Dixie Crossroads, 1475 Garden St, Titusville, FL, 32796, United States
Holbrook Travel and Merritt Island Wildlife Association invite you to join us for an evening of discovery about the dream destination of Tanzania, Africa. Our special guest Lucas Mhina will share insights into his important work with schools, the Land of Nature Camp, his current projects, and of course the unforgettable experience of visiting Tanzania. Africa is a dream destination in every sense; it is home to remarkable wild animals and astonishing scenic beauty.
Tanzania’s Bird list exceeds 1,000 species (31 endemics) including: Marabou Stork, Gray Crowned-Crane, African Spoonbill, Secretarybird, Kori Bustard, Lilac-breasted Roller, Decken’s Hornbill and Hartlaub’s Turaco.
Enjoy a photographic journey to the national parks, reserves, and wetlands of Africa through the lens of a local. Africa tops the bucket list for many wildlife enthusiasts and conservation curious travelers.
Free, but Kindly Register Here

Dine to Donate: Village Inn, Titusville
2025-02-11 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On February 11, 2025, from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, Feb 11th
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

Fascinating Freshwater Mussels
2025-02-09 13:00 - 15:30 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Bringing Back the Bivalves: Mussel Propagation and Recovery
Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, DeLeon Spring, FL
Cost: Free (limited to 24 participants)
https://bit.ly/freshwatermussels
Freshwater mussels, often called the “hidden gems” of aquatic ecosystems, play a critical role in maintaining water quality and biodiversity. Florida is home to a diverse array of native freshwater mussels, which are vital to aquatic ecosystems as filter feeders and indicators of water quality. Tony Brady, Acting Project Leader at the US FWS Welaka National Fish Hatchery and co-author of Freshwater Mussel Propagation for Restoration, will share challenges facing freshwater mussel populations and efforts being taken restore these vital organisms to their natural habitats.
This program will delve into the fascinating biology and ecology of freshwater mussels. Whether you’re a conservation professional, a student, or simply a nature enthusiast, this program offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of freshwater mussels and enhance your appreciation for their importance.
Following the classroom program, the group will be invited to join a hike on the Refuge. The trail for the hike will be chosen based on weather conditions. Register here.
Logistics:
What to bring: Refillable water bottle, sun protection, and insect repellent. Long pants and closed toed shoes are recommended for the Field Trip portion of the program.
What’s provided: professional instruction, water refill station, snacks, and door prizes.
Logistics/Accessibility: Please meet at the classroom location (this is not the address Google/Apple Maps will take you to. It is a special access gate to park directly in front of the classroom). Classroom address: 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs FL 32130. Please park in the limestone loop off to the right just past the building, along the roadway (without blocking traffic), or in the staff parking area (just past the loop on the lefthand side). There is a handicap parking spot available in the classroom building. The classroom portion of the program is handicap accessible.
The Field Trip portion of the program will be on natural trails with roots and uneven surfaces. Restrooms are located inside the classroom and at the Nature Center/HQ building. There is a pit toilet near the trailhead. Depending on sightings the walking distance will vary (approximately .75 to 1.5 miles). The Nature Center will be open for workshop attendees to explore after the program. The Nature Center is located at: Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, 2045 Mud Lake Road, DeLeon Spring, FL 32130

Black Point Wildlife Drive Bus Tour
2025-02-06 10:00 - 2025-03-29 12:00 | FL
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, Feb 6- Mar 29, 2025

Black Point Wildlife Drive Bus Tour
Cost: $10 per person ($5 for America The Beautiful passholders and Merritt Island Wildlife Association members)
Check-In: Arrive at 9:40am to check in and pay at the Merritt Island NWR Contact Station trailer (look for Pink Flamingo statues).
Boarding the Bus: After checking in, please drive to Parrish Park (across the street from the Contact Station) to park and board the bus.
Questions: Call our welcome center at 321-861-0669 (Tues to Sat from 8am to 4pm)
Pick a Date and Register Here
Hop aboard our Nature Bus Tour to take in the beauty of local wildlife from the comfort of your seat. Your Naturalist guide will share background about Merritt Island NWR while providing highlights about wildlife seen along the journey. The Refuge is home to many species of migratory birds along with year round residents that include freshwater frogs, turtles, alligators, and armadillos. Every day is different, and you never know what you might see on Black Point Wildlife Drive because ‘wild’ is literally in the name.
Logistics: The bus will make a stop for a restroom break approximately 1.25 hours into the tour. Our bus has limited accessibility; unfortunately, the bus is not equipped for wheelchairs, however we have space for walkers and canes. The tour includes use of loaner binoculars and wildlife identification resource guides.

I've Got an App for that Bird!
2025-02-02 11:00 - 13:30 | Dixie Crossroads, 1475 Garden St, Titusville, FL, 32796, United States
Location: Dixie Crossroads (Refuge Room), 1475 Garden St, Titusville, FL 32796
https://bit.ly/birdingskills
Explore the exciting world of bird identification with the help of the latest technology. Our I’ve Got an App for That Bird! workshop is tailored for adult learners (ages 16+). Professional birding guides and consultants, David Simpson and Dee Fairbanks Simpson (Birding with David Simpson) will share tips on how to leverage technology to enrich your birding knowledge. This hands-on session delves into the features, benefits, and best uses of three popular birding apps:

Cornell Lab’s Merlin Bird ID: Learn how to identify birds using field marks captured in images with AI enhanced recognition. Improve your Birding by Ear skills by leveraging automated sound ID.
eBird: Discover how to keep a detailed life list, contribute to community science, and explore bird sighting hotspots worldwide.
Sibley’s Field Guide App: Master the art of field identification using detailed illustrations and field marks.

This workshop combines interactive demonstrations, hands-on app exploration, and group discussions to ensure participants gain practical skills and confidence in using these tools for birding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder looking to enhance your tech-savvy birding skills, this session is for you!
Format:

Overview of APP’s
Scenario based examples to apply your learning
Q&A and group discussion on choosing the right app for your needs
Optional field practice following the workshop. Instructors will announce the field location at the start of the session.

Bring your smartphone or tablet for the full experience. Let technology take your birdwatching to the next level!
Register here.
Logistics: Workshop participants will order their lunch upon arrival and eat while the instructors are presenting. Each participant will pay for their own lunch. Please download the Merlin and eBird APP’s prior to the workshop. Please bring your smartphone or tablet and charging cable. Guest wi-fi will be available.

Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival
2025-01-22 04:00 - 2025-01-26 19:00 | Radisson Resort at the Port, 8701 Astronaut Boulevard, Cape Canaveral, FL, 32920, United States
Join MIWA at the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival, Jan 22-26,2025
Curious to learn about the natural side of our state? The Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival (SCBWF) allows you to add to your life list, take some amazing photos, see different Florida habitats, and meet other birders and naturalists from around the world.
Participate in one of the largest, most comprehensive birding and wildlife festivals in the country! Sign-up for field trips, including several at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Here is the link to start registration.
Click here be put on the mailing list to be notified of any new offerings.

Dine to Donate: Village Inn, Titusville
2025-01-14 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On January 14, 2025, from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, Jan 14th
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

Dine to Donate: Village Inn, Titusville
2024-12-17 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On December 17, 2024, from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, Dec 17th
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

Dine to Donate: Village Inn, Titusville
2024-11-19 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On November 19, 2024, from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, Nov 19th
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

History & Homestead: A Christmas Florida Celebration
2024-11-02 11:30 - 13:00 | Christmas Mills and Roastery, 1144 Taylor Creek Rd, Christmas, 32709
Event Description
Many birders and nature enthusiasts know Christmas Florida as the gateway to Orlando Wetlands, Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area, and Swampy, the world’s largest gator. Join us as we travel back in time to the heart of Christmas, Florida, to learn about history of the farms and families that make it such a unique place.
We will gather at the Christmas Mills and Roastery red caboose to be transported back to a simpler time while learning about milling corn, making cornbread, producing cane syrup, and coffee roasting. From farm fields to mistletoe, our program will include an informal storytelling session that will delve into the fascinating history of Christmas.
No such journey back in time would be complete without a taste of homemade goodness. Enjoy an array of homemade pies and treats, crafted with love and the same care as generations before. Freshly roasted coffee will warm your soul as we gather for a picnic that invites you to participate in the age-old custom of sharing food. Bring your favorite sandwich fixin’s, and we’ll provide the homemade bread, baked just as it was in the old days, to complete your meal.
After our picnic lunch, the Christmas Market will be open with neighbors and friends selling honey, coffee, jams & jellies, soaps, handcrafted items, stone ground layered grit jars, corn bread mixes, and baked goodies. You can also place an order for holiday pies.
Tickets available here.

Birds, Art and More Tour
2024-10-25 08:00 - 13:00 | FL
Cost: $15 (Advanced registration is required)
(Includes entrance to both museums and Audubon Birds of Florida special exhibit)
0800-1015 Field trip with Birding with David Simpson (Dee & David)
1015-1045 Restroom break and travel to Museum of Arts & Sciences (MOAS)
1045-1100 Arrive at MOAS and check in for tour
1100-1300 Docent led tour of Audubon special exhibit, planetarium show, and time to explore other galleries.
Birding Field Trip
Trip leaders Dee and David, professional guides from Birding with David Simpson, will lead us on an adventure to two different birding hot spots to look for local species and fall migrants. Tipping the guides is optional, but greatly appreciated.
Stop #1: Ponce Preserve
Ponce Preserve – https://maps.app.goo.gl/jdQd9nhamYFDv77LA
Restrooms on site. No entrance fee. Boardwalk 1/3 mile. Mangroves and salt marsh, lagoon overlook. Some woods around parking lot. Migrants, Clapper Rails, maybe some ducks and waterbirds on lagoon.
Stop #2: Port Orange Causeway Park
Port Orange Causeway Park – https://maps.app.goo.gl/oL84Gs9kE7ss9GxQ6
10 min from Ponce Preserve. 15-20 min from museum. No entrance fee. Restrooms on site. Walk around parking lot. Lots of water birds. Ducks, Oystercatchers, shorebirds.
Museum of Arts and Sciences – Art Museum Special Audubon Exhibition Tour
John James Audubon’s Birds of Florida
The Museum of Arts & Sciences invites you on an extraordinary journey through the original Birds of Florida as captured in the meticulously painted studies of John James Audubon (1785-1851), one of the most celebrated artists in American history. A masterpiece of printmaking, these exquisite, life-size illustrations are part of Audubon’s ground-breaking 435-count compendium The Birds of America, the culmination of the artist’s ambition to paint every bird species in North America. As part of this twelve-year venture, Audubon organized a special expedition to Florida (1831-1832) in order to document the birds, and their habitats, unique to the U.S. Territory.
Location:
Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS)
352 S. Nova Road
Daytona Beach FL 32114
Our group will enjoy a private, docent led tour of Audubon’s Birds of Florida special exhibit. Following the tour attendees will have free time for self-guided viewing of the other galleries and science museum.

Tickets on Sale Now: Annual Meeting and Dinner
2024-10-19 16:00 - 20:30 | Field Manor, 750 Field Manor Drive, Merritt Island, FL, 32953, United States
Tickets on sale now!
Mark your calendar and join us for our 30th Anniversary celebration! This year we are expanding seating to 125 and planning a lovely evening with a sunset view along the Indian River Lagoon. Field Manor is an 1800’s historic homestead located on
45 beautiful acres that include 400 feet of river frontage. There will be a silent auction again with baskets, artwork, and adventures. New table sponsorship opportunities are available too. Gather a group of friends and enjoy the evening together.
Individual Tickets are $40 per person and include buffet-style dinner, coffee/tea service, and dessert. Doors open at 3:30pm, auction viewing starts at 4pm, and dinner will be served at 4:30pm.

Keynote Speaker: Kirsten Hines is a Florida-based writer, photographer, and conservationist focused on highlighting nature and wildlife around the world. Anchored by her master’s degree in biology and experience as an environmental educator, her aim is to inspire conservation action through her personalized story-telling. She has authored or co-authored nine books, most recently Birds of Florida: A Photographic Guide and Recovering Caribbean Nature. Kirsten’s images have been featured in numerous photography showcases and exhibitions, public art programs, and magazines. She lectures widely on a range of nature and photography-related subjects, and leads wildlife photography field trips and workshops.

Dine to Donate: Village Inn, Titusville
2024-10-15 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On October 15, 2024, from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, Oct 15th
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

Dine to Donate: Village Inn, Titusville
2024-09-24 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On September 24, 2024, from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, Sept 24th
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

Fall 2024 Grabbers for Growlers
2024-09-23 09:00 - 13:00 | Blackpoint Wildlife Drive
Adopt-An-Area Cleanup
Monday, Sept 23 from 9am to 1pm
Sign Up At: https://bit.ly/septcleanup
Join us for Grabbers for Growlers, a fun-ﬁlled service project dedicated to cleaning up our beloved natural spaces as part of the Adopt-An-Area program. Merritt Island Wildlife Association and Playalinda Brewery are teaming up to clean up Areas 10 and 11 on Black Point Wildlife Drive, along with the horseshoe crab beach on West Gator Creek Road.
Gather your friends, rub on some sunscreen, and get ready to make a diﬀerence. We’ll be wielding grabber tools like eco-ninja, conquering litter so it doesn’t become troublesome for the wildlife who call the Refuge home. But wait, there’s more! After a successful clean-up mission, we will gather at Playalinda Brewery Hardware Store location to quench your thirst with some refreshing craft brews (beers and root beer) and a delicious lunch. Reﬁll a Growler or purchase one to go to be entered in our special sustainability raﬄe drawing.
It’s the perfect way to get to know the tap room team, celebrate giving back to nature, and converse with fellow nature enthusiasts. Are you ready to grab some trash and tip some growlers? Register today for Grabbers for Growlers and let’s make a positive impact on our community, one piece of litter at a time!
Itinerary:

0845 Meet in the parking area by the restroom stop on Black Point Wildlife Drive (approx. 3.5 miles from the entrance). Sign in and receive clean up supplies.
0900 Drive to Adopt-An-Areas. The group will space out our cars, parking between areas 10 and 11 working our way back to the middle point while picking up litter.
1015 Depart Black Point Wildlife Area and travel to West Gator Creek Road (park near the kiosk).
1030 Clean up the horseshoe crab sandy beach shoreline and ‘deep clean’ under the mangroves.
1130 Collect trash bags and supplies. Document our clean up outcomes.
1145 Travel to Playalinda Brewery Hardware Store, 305 S. Washington Ave, Titusville 32796.
1200 Enjoy lunch with the Tap Room team. Food and drinks are provided by MIWA and Playalinda Brewery as a THANK YOU for volunteering.

Cause a Scene for a Good Cause: Fundraiser at Blaze Pizza Viera
2024-09-10 17:00 - 21:00 | Blaze Pizza, 2348 Citadel Way, Suite 101, Melbourne, FL, 32940, United States
Pizza (and more) for a Purpose
Blaze Pizza Viera will be donating 25% of the proceeds from any dining in, take out, gift cards or take-n-bake meals ordered during our event when you mention the MIWA fundraiser. You can order in the APP, or let the servers know when you place your order at the restaurant. Show your phone with the Meetup event and photo of the flyer. Blaze Pizza is a build your own pizza style restaurant. Their menu includes Gluten Free pizza and delicious salads. Gather a group or get takeaway for your family to support the mission of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Merritt Island Wildlife Association
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Locations: 2348 Citadel Way, Suite 101, Melbourne, FL 32940
Order Mode: In-Restaurant, Blaze Pizza App, or BlazePizza.com
Blaze Pizza will donate 25% of proceeds from your meal back to our organization.
TWO WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR ORGANIZATION:
In-Restaurant: Bring in a flyer (in photo gallery) or show it on your phone before paying.
Online Orders: Orders must be placed online via the Blaze Pizza App or blazepizza.com. Enter code 1321B into the ‘Promo Code’ field at checkout to have your transaction count towards the fundraiser donation. If entered correctly, you’ll see a $.01 discount applied to your check which confirms that 25% of your transaction will be counted into total donation. VALID FOR PICKUP, CURBSIDE & CARRYOUT ONLY.
For orders on blazepizza.com or Blaze Pizza App
PROMO CODE: 1321B

Shoredbird Talk and Drive - Merritt Island NWR Program
2024-09-05 12:30 - 14:00 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Please join us to learn about the shorebirds that visit our area and the wonderful species that call Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge home! Meet in the Visitor Center Auditorium to discover what makes these species unique. The presentation will be followed by an adventure out to Black Point Wildlife Drive to observe and identify shorebirds. Please note, the drive around Black Point Wildlife Drive is caravan-style and each person will be responsible for their own transportation.
Questions: Call the Visitor Center at 321-861-0669 (Tues to Sat from 8am to 4pm)
Reserve Your Spot: Shorebird Talk and Drive
Continue your learning by purchasing a field guide or reference book at Nature’s Treasures Gift Shop, located inside the Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center. Shorebird program attendees will receive a 10% discount on all merchandise purchases in the Gift Shop.
Nature’s Treasures Gift Shop is excited to announce the new release of Pete Dunne and Kevin Karlson’s, The Shorebirds of North America is now available for purchase. This natural history and photographic celebration of shorebirds covers topics ranging from their biology and habitats to courtship and breeding, flight, the perils of migration, and conservation. Fact-filled descriptions of all 52 species of shorebirds known to breed in North America and breathtaking photos make this a valuable resource for learning.

Painting with a Purpose at Space Coast Ceramics
2024-08-29 17:30 - 19:30 | Space Coast Ceramics, 326 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, United States
Unleash your inner artist and support the Merritt Island Wildlife Association
Join us at Space Coast Ceramics for a “Painting with a Purpose” event to support the Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun and creative outlet, this event is for you. No artistic experience is necessary. Gather with fellow nature enthusiasts to create, connect, and contribute to preserving our local wildlife. Your brushstrokes will not only adorn the pottery as your canvas, but will also help protect habitats used by the wildlife at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
The evening will kick off with shopping the studio’s selection of pottery pieces. Create your unique design on the pottery you’ve purchased using a palette of colors from the studio glazes. Your ceramic art will be fired in the kiln and ready for pickup approximately 1 week after our event.
Space Coast Ceramics will donate 10% of the sales from the event to Merritt Island Wildlife Association.

Dine to Donate: Village Inn Titusville
2024-08-20 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Gather some friends for dinner, pickup a take home meal or enjoy a delicious piece of pie. On August 20th from 4pm to 9pm, Village Inn Titusville is generously donating a portion of their sales to Merritt Island Wildlife Association. Enjoy a fantastic meal while supporting a great cause. Whether you dine in or order takeout, your support will make a positive impact. Gather your friends and family for a night of fun and philanthropy!
Dine to Donate
Tuesday, August 20
Dine In or Get Takeaway
Anytime Between 4p to 9pm
Village Inn
2925 S Washington Ave
Titusville, FL 32780

Summer Series Butterfly Walk (August 2024, Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area)
2024-08-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Sams House, Pine Island, 6195 N. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL, 32953, United States
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Florida’s butterflies on our guided walk! Learn basic identification during our short indoor program highlighting features and differences between skippers, swallowtails, hairstreaks, and whites/yellows. Gain knowledge about the captivating lifecycle of a butterfly, exploring the journey from an egg to majestic adult. The education session will include photographs of butterflies commonly seen in our area along with some tips on how to enjoy butterfly watching.

Following the presentation, we will visit the native plant gardens to look for butterflies and their host plants. We’ll enjoy a bit of the outdoors before returning into the cool A/C to discover about native plants a pollinator habitat.
No prior knowledge or skill are required. All ages welcome. We will have field guides, butterfly checklists, and other resources available to enhance your enjoyment of the gardens.
About our instructor (Ed Perry):
Ed Perry retired after serving 31-years as a Park Ranger at Sebastian Inlet State Park. He enjoys fishing, butterfly gardening, growing & grafting tropical fruit trees, beachcombing (for sea-beans!), tropical fish aquaria, wildlife photography, and sharing life with his daughter Gayle. Ed is a Florida native who graduated from the University of Florida in 1988. In his retirement life he became interested in being involved in butterfly counts and protecting tracts of native, wild lands within our beautiful state of Florida.

Wonders of Worms Workshop for Adults
2024-08-17 09:00 - 23:00 | Rotary Park Nature Center, 1899 S Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL, 32952
Join Merritt Island Wildlife Association (MIWA) and Eaton Worms to learn about the benefits of using organic worms for composting and beneficial food for wildlife. Discover how to create a natural fertilizer that grows vibrant fruits, vegetables and plants. Worms are also nutritious snacks for many wildlife species and a prime bait for attracting fish. In this workshop, you will become familiarized with wormcasting, also known as vermicast, and the process of producing natural fertilizers. Each participant will receive a vermicomposting kit. Following the workshop, the Rotary Park Naturalists will lead us on tour of their native plant and pollinator gardens. A few lucky participants will get to conduct live worm releases in the garden and provide some snacks for the ambassador animals.
Worms are the key to creating healthy soil production. Did you know wormcastings:

Contain over 200 million beneficial bacteria.
Are rich in nutrients, make great fertilizer, and are a natural pest repellent.
Are Lagoon Friendly due to low nutrient level.

The Eaton Worms team will have their entire product line for sale during the event with special discounts for workshop attendees. All the supplies necessary for a DIY composter will be available to purchase along with lots of extra worms if you want to buy more for your kit, to donate as food for the education ambassador animals at the nature center, or to release into the native plant garden.
Logistics
Date/Time: Saturday, Aug 17 from 9am to 11am
Location: Rotary Park Nature Center, 1899 S Courtenay Pkwy, Merritt Island, FL 32952
Cost: $15 per person (MIWA Members will receive bonus worms)
Adult Learning Level: Workshop content and format is designed for individuals 16 years of age and older.
Advanced registration and payment is required to pre-order worm kits (click here)

Gopher Tortoise Education Day
2024-08-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Sendler Education Outpost, North SR3, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, FL
Calling all curious minds! School is about to begin and what better way to start the new school year than learning outdoors! Join us for Gopher Tortoise Education Day to learn all about your special little neighbors, the gopher tortoises, and what makes them heroes in their habitats. We’ll also learn what it means for a species to be endangered and why protected land is so important.
Meet amazing ambassador animals from the Florida Wildlife Hospital, including a real gopher tortoise! This exciting event will be a fun-filled adventure for kids of all ages. Learn why these fascinating creatures are important to our environment and discover the secrets of their underground homes – the burrows!
Ranger Anna will kick off the morning by sharing why the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to many gopher tortoises and other protected wildlife species. Get up close with the Florida Wildlife Hospital ambassadors to see the features that help them dig their underground ‘condos’ that provide shelter for many other species.
We will have a supply drive collection box if you want to donate an item to help with the care of the Florida Wildlife Hospital patients. For a list of items needed, visit https://floridawildlifehospital.org/wishlist/
Become a Junior Gopher Tortoise Guru
Throughout the Gopher Tortoise Education Day, we’ll have fun activities about these amazing reptiles. Learn fun facts to answer questions and participate in our education stations to earn points towards prizes.

Summer Series Butterfly Walk (July 2024, Enchanted Forest)
2024-07-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Brevard County Enchanted Forest, 444 Columbia Blvd, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States

Bags and Brekkie
2024-07-22 09:00 - 11:00 | Winn Dixie, 1564 Harrison St, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Calling all nature enthusiasts! Join us for Bags and Brekkie, a unique morning event that combines community spirit with a love for wildlife and natural spaces. We’ll kick things off at Winn-Dixie Titusville (Harrison St location) where you can purchase a reusable Community Bag and join our photo op. Winn-Dixie will donate $1 to MIWA for each Community Bag purchased at the Harrison St. location during July. Use your Community Bag as a symbol of commitment to sustainability.
Join our challenge to buy 1 item to incorporate into our breakfast chat. Perhaps it’s a food item you ate for the first time on a holiday? Can you find a product with an intriguing sustainability element (plant based candy?)? Bring your bag and your item to Sunrise Bread Company.
Following our shopping adventure, it’s on to Sunrise Bread Company for a delicious selection of fresh scones, muffins, and breakfast treats. Purchase your bakery treat and head upstairs. As we recharge, we’ll also be fueling our conversation with all things nature! Come chat about wildlife conservation efforts, share your favorite outdoor experiences, exchange travel stories, and get inspired by the beauty of the world around us. Plus, you will learn the connection between birds and Brekkie.
Let us know you’ll be coming RSVP for Bags and Brekkie
Itinerary:
0900 Meet at Winn-Dixie, 1564 Harrison St, Titusville FL
0920 Travel to Sunrise Bread Co, 315 S Hopkins Ave, Titusville, FL
0945 Enjoy conversations about travel, wildlife, nature and Brekkie

July 2024 Community Fundraiser with Winn Dixie
2024-07-01 08:00 - 2024-07-31 17:00 | Winn Dixie, 1564 Harrison St, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Merritt Island Wildlife Association has been selected as a Community Bag Program Nonprofit Partner! Our organization will receive $1 for each $2.99 reusable Community Bag sold during the month of July 2024 at: 1564 Harrison Street, Titusville FL. Even if this is not your regular grocery store, everyone can always use a sustainable, reusable shopping bag, so pop into Winn Dixie on Harrison St in Titusville for your benefit, as well as MIWA’s! Thank you for your support!

Storytelling and Author Meet-n-Greet with Jennifer Penello
2024-06-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Planteo and Fungiette – a science tale about accepting differences and cooperating to survive. Enjoy learning about a special friendship between a plant and a fungi.
Come meet Jennnifer Penello, author of Planteo and Fungiette, a naturalist’s tale of how Planteo, a growing flower, and Fungiette, a developing mushroom, resolve a rivalry between plants and fungi for the forest floor. As the story unfolds, the unique qualities of plants and fungi are explained and celebrated. These characteristics are then combined in the give-and-take lifestyle of lichens. Reading Planteo and Fungiette with young children illustrates the beauty of cooperation and sharing in both nature and real life.
This will be the perfect outing to keep children and grandchildren engaged in reading over summer vacation. Autographed copies of the author’s book will be available for purchase and anyone purchasing a book will receive a special discount in our Nature’s Treasure’s Gift Shop.

Invasive Species Talk with Sarah
2024-06-27 11:00 - 12:00 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Cuban tree frogs, rock agamas, and curly tailed lizards, oh my!
See these species up close and in real life and learn how each species came to Florida, their habitats, life spans, and how each affect the ecosystems they live in, here in Florida.
