The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw by Bruce Barcott, May 12, 6:30 pm in the Naturalist Center

What can one individual do to save a threatened population? When zookeeper Sharon Matola learned that a dam would be built that would flood the nesting ground of the only scarlet macaws in Belize, she took up the cause. Barcott’s account of her battle ranges from boardroom to courtroom and from the local village to protests around the world. Join other adults for a discussion of one woman’s quest and the lessons it may offer to environmentalists everywhere.

Reservations: Free. To reserve a space, please call the Naturalist Center at 415-379-5494.

Twenty Thousand Leagues under the Sea by Jules Verne, May 2, 11:00 am in Education Classroom

A mysterious sea creature is terrorizing the seas, causing damage to several ships. The United States government organizes an expedition led by a leading French marine biologist, Professor Pierre Aronnax, to find the creature and destroy it. The creature, which turns out to be a submarine manned by the eccentric Capitan Nemo, attacks the expedition’s ship and takes its survivors captive. They end up going on a year-long journey exploring the wonders of the seas. Join us for a lively discussion of this science-fiction classic that was first published in 1870.

Reservations: Free with admission to the museum, but participants should RSVP to the Naturalist Center at 415-379-5494.

Photo: Charles Darwin, 1816.

A research guide for kids interested in finding out about evolution. You can use it for school projects or just for yourself. Download a copy here.