Discover Nature Programs

Through a partnership with the Louisiana Master Naturalist of Greater Baton Rouge (LMNGBR) we are proud to offer exciting new Discover Nature programs featuring local and national experts who are in touch with nature and are eager to share their experiences. All programs will be held in the Imo Brown Complex in the Beverly Brown Coates Auditorium at Hilltop Arboretum. Discover Nature programs are free for Members Magnolia Level ($250) and above.

 

"Bluebirds of Happiness"
Featuring: Jane Patterson
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 6:30-8:00pm

Join Jane Patterson, President and Education chair of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, for an engaging and informative presentation on one of North America's most beloved songbirds—the Eastern Bluebird. Once in serious decline, these vibrant birds have made a remarkable comeback thanks to the efforts of backyard conservationists. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a curious homeowner, this talk will provide everything you need to know about welcoming these "bluebirds of happiness" to your property. We'll cover their preferred habitats, nesting habits and life cycle, and the timeline of typical nesting season in Louisiana. We'll also offer pointers for bluebird landlords, including how to choose (or build) a nest box and how to protect the birds from predators. 

Jane Patterson is an avid birder and amateur photographer who loves to share her love of birds with others. She Is currently president and education chair for the Baton Rouge chapter of The National Audubon Society. She has been teaching birdwatching classes since 2007 and has introduced hundreds of people to the pastime. Jane also earned her certification as a Louisiana Master Naturalist in 2018. She is especially fond of gardening with native plants to support birds, butterflies and insects and other wildlife. Jane retired from her career in state government in 2017 as the Director of Telecommunications where she was responsible for overseeing internet and phone services for Louisiana state government. 

 

“LSU Wildlife Rehabilitation”
Featuring: LSU Vet Med Raptor Team
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 | 6:30–8:00 p.m.  

Join us for an engaging talk with representatives and resident birds from the LSU Vet Med's Raptor Rehab Team that is a part of the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana, where you’ll learn about the critical work being done to rescue, treat, and release injured birds of prey and other wildlife in Louisiana. The presentation will explore common causes of wildlife injury, what happens behind the scenes at a rehabilitation clinic, and how the public can responsibly respond when encountering injured animals - including when to intervene and when to leave wildlife alone. The team will also have some merchandise that they will be selling.

The LSU Vet Med Raptor Team is led by veterinary students who care for birds of prey while advancing wildlife education and conservation in Louisiana. They will be joined by Dr. Mark Mitchell, DVM, Professor of Zoological Medicine, whose work focuses on training future veterinarians and supporting wildlife health through teaching, research, and clinical care.

 

For more information about this event, please contact us at LSU Hilltop Arboretum at 225-767-6916, visit www.lsu.edu/hilltop, or email info@friendsofhilltop.org.

Program Details

Bluebirds of Happiness
February 24, 2026
6:30-8:00pm
Registration

LSU Wildlife Rehabilitation
March 24, 2026
6:30–8:00 pm
Registration

Questions? Contact Hilltop by email info@friendsofhilltop.org or call 225-767-6916.