FORT PIERCE - The St. Lucie County Environmental Resources Department's February Nature Program Series, held each Saturday at various Environmentally Significant Land sites, features a variety of activities from hiking to bird watching.

Saturday, Feb. 3 from 3 - 6 p.m. - Pinelands Day Hike. Explore 750 acres of pristine pine flatwoods on a trek that will cover five miles, ending just before sunset. Bring your water, snacks and camera or binoculars.

Saturday, Feb. 10 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. - Walton Scrub Botanical Walk. Learn to identify plants, both native and non-native, and even some endangered and threatened species.

Saturday, Feb. 17 from 7:30 - 10:30 a.m. - Birding at Bluefield. Start your morning with a two-mile hike along wetlands on your way to an observation tower that overlooks a vast marsh with numerous waterfowl. Be prepared for a long walk by bringing water and wearing comfortable shoes.

Saturday, Feb. 24 from 8 - 10 a.m. - Woodpeckers at Bluefield. Listen, watch and learn as woodpeckers announce their territories to the world by drumming on the trees. Mating season has begun for woodpeckers and other woodland birds, so come out and listen.

Anyone wishing to participate in these nature programs needs to register at least one day in advance. Programs are free, but limited to the first 15 people. To register or for more information call (772) 462-2526 or visit www.stlucieco.gov/erd.

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