Birding walk
Afton State Park
7:30-9 p.m. Friday
Timberdoodle is the nickname for a ground-nesting, long-beaked little bird called the American woodcock. The mating flight and dance of the little bird is amazing. Take a short hike on prairie trails to a spot to wait quietly for the dance to begin at dusk. (651-231-6968, mndnr.gov).
Women in the outdoors
Fort Snelling State Park
9-10:30 a.m. Saturday
It's the fishing opener. Learn the basics from equipment and to identifying fish. Then, cast a line. No license is required and all equipment is provided. Registration required. Call 612-725-2724.
Wildflowers of Kathio
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
10:30 a.m.-noon Saturday
Following a 30-minute slide show illustrating many wildflowers that grow in the area. Afterward, take a trail walk to see what's in bloom. Attend either or both parts of the program. Meet at the interpretive center. (1-320-532-3269, mndnr.gov)
Migrant birds
Eastman Nature Center
10 a.m.- noon Saturday
Celebrate Migratory Bird Day, learning about birds and going on a birding hike. Binoculars provided. Cost is $5; The program is for ages 6 and older. (763-694-7700; threeriversparks.org)
A full moon paddle
Fish Lake Regional Park
8-10 p.m. Saturday
Canoe under a full moon if the weather cooperates and watch for wildlife. Equipment provided. Cost is $8. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. Ages 5 and older. (763-694-7818, threeriversparks.org)
Mother's Day outing
Interstate State Park
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (hike) or 1:30-2:30 p.m. (stroll) Sunday
Treat your mother to an afternoon of wildflowers and scenic overlooks on one of two routes. A naturalist leads the way. Hike up the stairs and switchbacks of sandstone bluffs at 11 a.m. or stroll a one-mile loop to see what's blooming at 1:30 p.m. (651-465-5711, mndnr.gov)
The bluebird story
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park
9:30-11 a.m. Wednesday
Head to the Hennepin County side of the park, and discover bluebird history, folklore, and also the birds' struggles and recovery from the brink of extinction. Cost is $5. Reservations are required by Monday. Call 763-559-6700.
More migrant birds
Silverwood Park
6-7:30 p.m. Thursday
Join a naturalist to discover which birds have returned. Also learn tips on how to find them. Cost is $5 and reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700. This program is for ages 16 and older. (threeriversparks.org)