By Brandt Mannchen

Recently, I visited a nature center that I didn’t know existed and had never seen. The Delores Fenwick Nature Center (DFNC) is in Pearland, Texas at 5750 Magnolia Parkway, 77584 (281-652-1960). The DFNC is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm.

It’s 6,000-square-feet of exhibits include aquariums, terrariums, and one of the biggest Bluegills I’ve ever seen along with a cool Spotted Gar.  Three-toed Box Turtles and Prairie Kingsnakes are on display along with interactive bio-fact stations, a craft table, and a 50-person classroom for workshops and field trips. 

There are two miles of walking trails outside which go around two large wet-bottom detention lakes with wetlands and riparian vegetation, like Black Willows, where cormorants, egret, cattle, and snowy egrets, hawks, ducks, and other birds roost, hunt, and loaf.  There also are areas planted with native grasses and wildflowers.

It was fun walking the trails and seeing wading birds stalk prey and stand under trees in shaded shallow waters.  This should be a good place for winter birdwatching and strolling to decompress from the hurly burly life we lead.

I think you will enjoy the DFNC.  I know I did, and I’ll be back soon to relax and enjoy Nature, viewing birds as they live their lives.