Events

Did you know 29 species of bats live in New Mexico? Come learn about this amazing mammal as you craft your own seasonal decor!

Have you ever wondered what genre stories like Zootopia and Bambi fall into? What connects them outside of just having talking animals? Join Rafael for a presentation on what animal fiction is, why it’s important, and how it’s used as a tool to better help us understand ourselves as a species.

Take a closer look at the tiny creatures living in and around our wetlands! Kids will explore aquatic macroinvertebrates and learn what these small animals can tell us about the health of their habitat!

New Mexico is known across the culinary world for its unique cuisine, with red and green chiles as the crown jewels of its food. But how did that come to be? Was there ever a New Mexico without chiles? Join Rafael for a brief history of how the food culture of New Mexico developed into what it is today.

Join the Biology Team for VdO's Bird Survey Training to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, as we celebrate this year's theme of citizen science "Every Bird Counts!" Open to current and future volunteers. We'll go over the protocol and bird ID during a tour on the Electric Shuttle.  

Bring your furry friends to learn about our pet policies on the refuge and take the pledge to be a part of our B.A.R.K. Ranger program. All dogs required to be on leash and non-reactive around others.  

*Presented by The New Mexico Backyard Refuge Program* Join us to talk about sharing space with our wild neighbors. If you bring photos of your yard, patio, or balcony, you can walk through the certification process with our staff and volunteers and take home your Backyard Refuge sign!

Published in 2019, David Ryan’s book 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Albuquerque included his experiences hiking and spending time at Valle de Oro in the early years before the visitor center was constructed. David will talk about his experiences hiking around the state, connections with the refuge, and about his new book Wandering in the Clear Light of New Mexico. ...

Join Ranger Dakota for a special outdoor excursion version of the hit program The Nature of Tea. Participants will learn how brewing the world’s most consumed beverage can connect us to the natural processes and seasonal cycles happening all around us and how tasting tea can help train our senses to notice more of the natural world. The program will ...

Join Ranger Dakota on a one-of-a-kind seasonal outing after dark at the refuge featuring a nighttime shuttle tour of refuge habitats, scary story readings, and a short spooky walk in the dark. Participants should plan to come prepared with flashlights or headlamp and clothes for cool temperatures. Space is limited! Reservations required. Reserve your spot by sending an email to: ...