Virginia
Living Museum
Programs for Adults
Learning
can be a life long adventure. Join VLM staff biologists, naturalists
and scientists to explore the natural world in special adult-oriented
programs. Each activity-oriented program is presented in a relaxed,
hands-on format and includes classroom instruction combined with
opportunities to examine specimens from the Museum's extensive
collections and up close encounters with live animals. Come and share a
journey of discovery with others who have an enthusiastic desire to
continue to learn about the natural world of Virginia and beyond.
Advance registration is required for many adult programs. For more
information or to make a reservation, call the Reservations Coordinator,
at 757-595-9135, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Feb. 7 Save Our Dark Skies!
TUESDAY EVENING SEMINAR SERIES
Register online or call 757-595-9135.
Astronomers and telescope enthusiasts complain about light pollution but is it really a problem? New research reveals that light pollution can drastically alter the ability of some plants and animals to survive. Find out why we need to be concerned about light pollution and some simple but effective ways we can reduce it.
Ages 18+
Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $5 Members; $7 Non-Members. Active volunteers are free.
March 6 There and Back Again: A Grand Canyon Adventure
TUESDAY EVENING SEMINAR SERIES 
Register online or call 757-595-9135.
It measures 277 miles long, up to 18 miles across, and a mile deep – this canyon isn’t just grand, it’s awe-inspiring! Join us on a journey from Grand Canyon rim to the Colorado River (and back). We will explore the Canyon’s biology and geology, as well as discuss how to successfully hike rim-to-rim.
Ages 18+
Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $5 Members; $7 Non-Members. Active volunteers are free.
March 20 and 22 or 21 and 23 Birding on the Boardwalk
Register online or call 757-595-9135.
It's spring! What birds are coming to Virginia? Before we are open to the public, take a morning walk with Naturalist Rock Moeslein around the boardwalk to see what kind of bird life activity is happening here. Are birds setting up territories, nesting or just passing through? Start your day off with a leisurely walk in the company of a small group of quiet birders. Afterwards we will have a short bird lesson and a light breakfast (on your own) in the Museum's Wild Side Cafe. Reservations are required.
Age: 18+
Time: 7:30-8:45 a.m.
Cost: $10 VLM members, $14 non-members.
March 24 Ukrainian Egg (Pysanky) Workshop
Workshop Cancelled.
Due to unforseen circumstances the presenter of this workshop is unable to present at this date. Fall 2012 or Spring 2013 date may be forthcoming.
Register online or call 757-595-9135.
The art of wax resist egg dying, called Pysanky in the Ukraine, is a tradition that dates back to primitive times. These intricately decorated eggs have long been given as special gifts. Learn the basics of making these special egg creations from an expert and take home your own one-of-a-kind Pysanky in this very small group workshop. Eggs and kits are supplied.
Ages 14+, 10-13 with an adult
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (one hour for lunch)
Cost: $85 Members; $95 Non-Members.
March 31 Beekeeping Workshop with Gunther Hauk
Register online or call 757-595-9135.
Learn about beekeeping from Gunther Hauk, who has been a beekeeper for more than 30 years and is one of the central inspiring figures in "Queen of the Sun: What are the Bees Telling Us?" Hauk was a teacher for 23 years and was co-founder of Spikenard Farm in 2006 and the Pfeiffer Center in 1996. He is the author of "Toward Saving the Honeybee." He and his wife, Vivian, have a honeybee sanctuary in Floyd County. Stay after the workshop for a showing of "Queen of the Sun" at 2 p.m. (Non-members must pay Museum admission to tour and see the film - $17 adults).
Age: 18+
Time: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $45
April 3 What's Up with the Weather and Climate?
TUESDAY EVENING SEMINAR SERIES 
Register online or call 757-595-9135.
Some say “Climate is what you expect, weather is what you get!” Forecasts talk about “highs”, “lows”, “fronts” and “air masses” all somehow combining to produce rain, sun and wind. We’ll explore how different kinds of clouds form, and what they can tell us about the weather ahead; how landforms and water help determine the weather and climate, and how our spinning Earth sets it all in motion.
Ages 18+
Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $5 Members; $7 Non-Members. Active volunteers are free.