Tracks in the snow, hair on a fence, loud cries in the night. Could it be a mountain lion? The mountain lion and other large carnivores once served as nature's check on deer and other prey species. Today, humans control the deer herd, so the natural role of this big cat is gone. There aren't many animals that receive more interest in Missouri than mountain lions.
Who's in the forest this time of year? Some Missouri owls stick around all year and are especially vocal during the winter months. Get together to discuss some of the owl's amazing adaptations, dissect some pellets to see what they're eating and take a hike to hear what they're saying. Dress for the weather.
Free. For ages 7 and up. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Explore the special exhibit The Missouri Immigrant Experience and enjoy a day of interactive learning about other places in the world. Families can listen to stories about people around the world, learn a few basic phrases in different languages, make traditional art, hear live music and go on a scavenger hunt.
All activities are free. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Missouri History Museum
More information: mohistory.org
As the St. Louis area’s only all-girls school for grades 1-5, Visitation Academy celebrates
the unique way girls learn and instills confidence and self-esteem. At Visitation, girls are free to express opinions, ask questions, excel in academics and athletics, develop talents, and become leaders.
The Whitaker Music Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden is a beloved summer tradition that presents free Wednesday evening concerts under the stars.
Aquarium visitors will be immersed in a world of shark-centered adventures and have opportunities to get up close to the sharks during Shark Week at the St. Louis Aquarium.
The Preschool Science Series is an open exploration learning lab for young scientists, ages 18 months to 5 years and their families. Activities are designed around research that shows children learn best through play, inquiry and shared experiences with their parents and caregivers.
See spectacular performances and fun & educational demonstrations by kid-favorite entertainers like Babaloo and Oh My Gosh Josh and Mad Science.
Visit The Magic House for Toddler Time, a special early-morning program for toddlers. Children age 1-4 can take part in exhibits and exclusive interactive activities designed just for little ones. There are new themes every week!