Observe a bird banding station in action! Montana WILD and Spring Meadow Lake State Park are thrilled to host bird banding events throughout the summer with public opportunities to observe birds - and scientists - up close! Montana WILD staff and volunteers will provide education for adults and kids at the events. Those interested in dropping by can meet at the gazebo on the back lawn of Montana WILD. No registration required.

Learn about the amazing raptor species that call Montana home. We will investigate what makes raptors unique from other types of birds and why they are so important to our ecosystems. You will also get a chance to meet live raptors from the Montana WILD Wildlife Rehabilitation Center! Meet us at the Montana WILD gazebo. No registration required.

Please join Montana WILD and Last Chance Audubon Society for our 1st Wednesday Bird Walks! During the summer, each first Wednesday of the month a Last Chance Audubon member will lead a guided bird walk around Spring Meadow Lake State Park. The walks start at 8am and usually take about an hour and a half. Meeting place is in front of Montana WILD. Participants of all skill levels are welcome, and leaders will assist with identification of the birds we see and hear. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring your binoculars (or borrow a pair from Montana WILD) and join us for a leisurely morning of birding! Please contact Montana WILD for additional information. No registration required.

What do you see swimming around in our lakes and streams... and what don't you see? Join us as we explore the world of aquatic insects that are hiding in plain sight! We'll walk down to Spring Meadow Lake and collect macroinvertebrates right from our backyard, examine them up close using kid-friendly microscopes, and talk about what makes these critters so fascinating. Stick around to "build-a-bug" while we learn about what makes an insect an insect! Spaces are limited. Registration required, call 406-444-9941

What happens when a species moves somewhere it doesn't belong? Learn about the aquatic invasive species threatening Montana's waters, how they spread, and how you can help stop them. Then, design your own invasive species in a fun, creative activity! Spaces are limited. Registration required, call 406-444-9941

Spread your wings and move your paws! We will be doing Sun Salutations and talking about wildlife. This free class is designed for 4 to 9 year-olds. Participants are welcome to bring a mat or towel, but it is not required.  No registration required.

Come and explore the fascinating world of bats! After a brief bat presentation in the Montana WILD auditorium, we will walk down to Spring Meadow Lake where participants will search for bats and use special equipment to hear their echolocation as the navigate and forage over the lake. Spaces are limited. Registration required, call 406-444-9941 

Join us for a fun evening of family fishing at Spring Meadow Lake! Whether you're picking up a fishing rod for the first time or introducing a young angler to the sport, this event is a great opportunity to learn the basics of fishing together. Fishing poles and bait will be provided. Meet at Montana Wild. Registration required, call 406-444-9941

Discover the hidden world beneath the water's surface! Learn about aquatic macroinvertebrates and explore the incredible diversity of Montana's streams and lakes. Get an up-close look at these fascinating creatures and the important roles they play in aquatic ecosystems. Registration required, call 406-444-9941

Montana WILD at the Helena Farmers' Market | August 29 | 8:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.
Stop by our booth to explore Montana bears and play wildlife games! Get an up-close look at real skulls, hides, and tracks while learning bear safety, behavior, and tips to keep people safe and bears wild. 

 Join us in the Montana WILD exhibit hall to explore the wonderful world of of animal habitat and responsible ways to get outdoors! Together, we will discover Montana wildlife homes, responsible camping, and ways to look at the world around us.  Every session kicks off with an interactive story, followed by a creative craft or activity that brings the lessons to life. (Stories are geared toward children ages 4-10, but bring the littles too!) The Critter Tales Summer Reading Series will happen every Thursday at 3:00 p.m. through August 27. No registration required.

Each day, volunteers stroll the Montana WILD grounds with our raptor ambassadors: hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons. These walks provide valuable enrichment for the birds and offer visitors a unique chance to meet them up close and learn about these incredible species.

All month long we will have crafts and educational activities set up in our classroom. Stop by any time Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.