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)