Courtesy Post: Butterfly Walk at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Courtesy Post: This event is being hosted by the Merritt Island Wildlife Association (Friends Group of Merritt Island NWR)

**Beauty of Butterflies (Monthly Butterfly Walk)**

Join us for an opportunity to enjoy butterflies in wild spaces. We will meet at the Merritt Island NWR Visitors Center in the Auditorium for a brief presentation on butterfly basics. The presentation will focus on differences between skippers, swallowtail and whites/yellows. The instructor will show photos of butterflies commonly found in our area.

Following the educational session the group will be led to areas to search for butterflies on the Refuge property. Initially we will explore the butterfly garden, boardwalk and nature trail behind the Visitor Center. Depending on the weather, and our sightings, we may travel to other locations within the Refuge.

Resource books, folding identification guides, and Florida Butterfly Checklists will be available. No previous butterfly identification knowledge or experience is required. We encourage any participants skilled in iNaturalist to add observations to contribute to community science.

** If you have a group of more than 6 people, please register for 5 guests and email Rochelle Hood at [email protected]. Meetup sets a maximum for 5 guests**

**All participants will receive a complimentary ticket for the door prize drawing and 10% off any purchases in the Bookery Gift Shoppe inside the Visitors Center.**

0945-1000 Register / check in

1000-1030 Butterfly education

1030-1045 Travel to butterfly walk location

1045-1200 Search for and observe butterflies

1200-1230 Discuss observations and draw door prizes

What to Bring: refillable water bottle, bug spray, sun protection

Optional: Binoculars & photography equipment (not required)

Cost: Free

Meeting Location:

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center

1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville FL 32796