ORANGE — Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center announces upcoming programs for the Spring Saturday Adventure Series 2013.

These hands-on programs give visitors an opportunity to explore the natural world through informative lessons and activities presented by Shangri La educators. Below is an itinerary of upcoming programs for the months of March, April and May. The Saturday Adventure Series programs begin at 9:30 a.m. and last about an hour. These programs are free with paid admission to Shangri La. Participants are asked to meet at the Admissions Window at the scheduled event time. An RSVP is required as space is limited. For more information or to reserve a space, call 409-670-9799.

 

March 2, 2013: Bringing the Night Sky Inside - Experience STARLAB, Shangri La's portable planetarium during a one-of-a-kind program, which teaches about constellations and stars. Participants will create their own constellations as an accompanying project. Adults and children ages 10 and up are welcome.

 

March 9, 2013: Bare Bones - Children of all ages will be fascinated by learning about bones and the mysteries that skulls can reveal. This indoor program will answer many questions about bones and their function for different animal adaptations.

 

March 16, 2013: Aphids and Ladybugs, Garden Combat - Become an organic gardener by exploring some of the problems gardeners face and natural solutions to distinguish between helpful and harmful insects. Learn about aphids, thrips, and mealybugs and natural pesticides. This family program and will take place indoors and outdoors as attendees release good insects into the gardens.

 

March 23, 2013: Build a Birdfeeder - Join us to create your own bird feeder to welcome back the birds of spring. During this family-friendly program, participants will create traditional feeders and hummingbird feeders using recycled and natural materials. These take-home feeders will invite birds to your backyard.

 

March 30, 2013: Morning Bird Stroll - Explore the "road less taken" at Shangri La during a morning bird sighting excursion. For first time bird spotters, this program will focus on using binoculars and field guides, while avid birders share their knowledge and expertise. Adult participants and children 10 years of age and older are welcome to attend.

 

April 6, 2013: Bird Ballet - Focus on the graceful activities of wading birds in Shangri La's state-of-the-art heronry. The Great Egret, especially, has a propensity for subtle movement, perfect body alignment and fancy footwork. Compare and contrast bird adaptations, behaviors and watch several species from the bird blind. Ages 10 and up are welcome.

 

April 13, 2013: What's Jumpin' at Shangri La - Bring the entire family for a hopping good time to explore the world of the Green Treefrog. This species is prevalent during the spring and summer months at Shangri La. Hunt for frog friends, search for tadpoles and try to talk and hop like a frog in this interactive, outdoor program.

 

April 20, 2013: Butterflies that Flutter By (at a special time: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.) - During Earth Week and Eco-Fest at Shangri La, come celebrate butterflies in this family program. From caterpillar to adult insect, these flying jewels remind us of the transformation present in the natural world. Learn about life stages, join in a butterfly search and then make a take-home craft.

 

April 27, 2013: Have a Cup of Tea, Indeed! - Come enjoy a tea party and sample some wild teas, as we explore the wonderful world of natural teas. Also, discover secret historical treasures hidden within the magnificent gardens of Shangri La. This outdoor program is for participants ages 6 years and up.

 

May 4, 2013: Secrets of the Trees - In this family program, explore how to distinguish one tree from another and investigate the internal processes of trees that are native to this area. Discuss the environmental needs of trees and how they grow.

 

May 11, 2013: Caffeinated Plants - During this program for adults, explore caffeinated plants that grow in Shangri La. Be sure to wear walking shoes for a scavenger hunt in this program that teaches about coffee-alternatives. Participants will stroll about one mile during this informative, outdoor program.

 

May 18, 2013: Flying Dinosaurs - In this hands-on program suitable for the whole family, attendees will dig in the mud and search the air for ancient dragonflies. Delve into the life cycle of dragonflies and explore their habitats, which include Shangri La's gardens.

 

The Saturday Adventure Series has programs for the young and young-at-heart. For those interested in attending, please RSVP by calling 409-670-9799. Saturday Adventure Series programs are free of charge with paid admission to Shangri La. Located at 2111 West Park Avenue in Orange, Texas, Shangri La is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.shangrilagardens.org