Walking, orienteering, bird-banding: Park slate is packed

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2 p.m. Saturday

Located in the middle of the metro area, this park is surrounded by busy highways, railroads, high-use river systems and an international airport, but wildlife nevertheless thrives here with ease. Join the naturalist for a cool autumn walk and learn about the plants and animals that coexist with the hikers, bikers, skiers and motorists. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Lowry Nature Center

9 a.m.-noon Saturday

Head to Victoria to see wild songbirds up close as they are safely trapped, studied, banded and released. Drop in anytime. Bring a camera. Reservations are required for groups. Groups should call 763-694-7650. This program is free and open to all ages. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (threeriversparks.org)

Cleary Lake Regional Park

Learn how to use a compass, read a map and measure distance in this program. Cost is $8. (763-694-7777, threerivers­parks.org)

Lowry Nature Center

1-3 p.m. Saturday

A meeting of the Minnesota Young Birders Club will explore different aspects of the world of birding. Put your new skills to work each session with hands-on activities. Cost is $5 (free for Minnesota Young Birders Club members). Reservations are required for members and nonmembers. Call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #411305-02. The program is for ages 13-18. (threeriversparks.org).

Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park

Explore weather prediction basics. Collect data. Cost is $5. (763-694-7790)

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2 p.m. Sunday

Join the naturalist on a hike to search for the vacated homes of the park's summer residents. Learn how birds and other animals construct and furnish their summer homes. Meet at the visitor center. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

Sibley State Park