One-hour guided horseback rides are being offered at sunset on April 1 at Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek. People 9 and older, who are at least 52 inches tall, can participate. The ride starts at 6 p.m. and costs $30 per person. To register call 954-357-8720.

The Profile Design Miami International Triathlon takes place in Miami on March 15. In addition to favorable weather, the event offers beautiful course views and a lively Latin influence. The Olympic-distance MIT (1.5 K swim, 40 K bike and 10 K run) is on its way to becoming one of the largest triathlons in Florida, [...]

For 10,000 years, people have spent time on the waters and islands of Biscayne National Park. Who were they? What did they do? What did they leave behind? The third installment of the 2009 Family Fun Fest season at BNP, on Sunday, March 8, will shed light on the park’s shadowy past from 1 p.m. [...]

  A Florida black bear was hit by a car on Feb. 3 on the Florida Turnpike in Miami-Dade County. The crash broke two of the animal’s legs and tore open flesh on its rear. The 200-pound young male was taken to Miami Veterinary Specialists where it was treated.   On Feb. 5 Florida Fish and Wildlife [...]

The Miami chapter of the Sierra Club is hosting a hike from the southern terminus trailhead of the Florida Trail (at Loop Road) to Oasis Ranger Station on Tamiami Trail. Hikers will pass orchids, bromeliads, dwarf cypress, giant sword ferns and other wildlife. Parts of the 7.7-mile hike will be wet.   Cost is $15. E-mail kaatjebernabei@bellsouth.net [...]

Jupiter Outdoor Center is offering full-moon kayaking trips on Valentine’s Day.   On Saturday, Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., couples can leisurely paddle among mangroves in the tranquil waters of Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve while watching the sun set and the moon and stars appear. Included in the romantic evening are flowers [...]

The National Wildlife Federation, whose slogan is “Inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future,” is accepting entries to its 39th annual photography contest. Cash prizes totaling $25,000 plus other gifts will be awarded to the winners in seven categories in three separate divisions: professional, amateur and youth. The deadline is July 20.   [...]

Everglades National Park has expanded its video podcast program.   “By creating a series of informational and interpretive podcasts, Everglades National Park is providing new ways for visitors to learn about a special place they might not ever visit, but still want to enjoy,” superintendent Dan Kimball said in a statement.   The free podcasts [...]

The Sawgrass Nature Center in Coral Springs welcomes Nature Explorers from ages 3 to 5 to its new preschool program. On March 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m kids will explore the natural environment and meet creatures who inhabit it. The cost per class is $5 for members and $8 for [...]