Young Naturalist Club

The Wake Audubon Young Naturalist Club is a program geared for 12 to 18-year-olds who have a strong interest in the natural sciences and want to explore the outdoors. Activities may include nature hikes or environmental service projects.

Turtles and Trash Service Project along the Eno River

Birding by Canoe at Umstead State Park

Planting a Native Wildflower Garden at Walnut Creek Wetlands Center

Mist Netting Songbirds at Prairie Ridge

How do I join?

• Join the Young Naturalist Club email list to hear about upcoming activities. To be added to the list, contact John Gerwin
• Contact the designated activity leader to sign up for an activity of interest. Join as many as your schedule allows.
• You do not need to be a Wake Audubon member to participate, although it is certainly a great way to meet other families with youth who share a strong interest in nature.

 More details

• Parents/guardians of youth are always welcome, but not required to join activities.
• Youth should be at least 12-years-old to take part in an activity without a parent/guardian. Younger youth may join activities if a parent/guardian is present.
• Activities are listed through the Wake Audubon Calendar of Events or through the monthly email.
• Activity leaders are trained professionals and volunteers. Many leaders are biologists or educators with organizations like the Museum of Natural Sciences, State Parks and the Public Schools. At least two adults are present during each activity.
• Activity locations vary, but they are typically in Raleigh or a neighboring community.
• Most activities are absolutely free thanks to generous support from Wake Audubon. For some activities, there may be a small registration fee to help cover food and entrance fees. For these activities, full financial assistance is available for families in need.

Meet the Young Naturalists Leader

John Gerwin

John serves as Research Scientist and Curator of Birds at theNCMuseum of Natural Sciences.