Florida Keys Wildlife Society Lecture: Dr. Jason Downing

Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 7 to 8 p.m. Explore the natural world of the Florida Keys during an evening lecture featuring Dr. Jason Downing of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami, presented by the Florida Keys Wildlife Society.

The program is part of the Society’s 2026–2027 Lecture & Outdoor Series, which brings scientists, researchers, conservation professionals, and other experts to Big Pine Key to share their knowledge of Florida’s wildlife, plants, habitats, and natural resources.

The lecture takes place at the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Nature Center, 30587 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the presentation beginning at 7 p.m.

Admission is free and open to the public, and light refreshments are provided. Seating is limited to 52 attendees, so arriving early is recommended.

The Nature Center serves as a gateway to the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges, with exhibits highlighting Key deer, mangrove and shallow-water ecosystems, native wildlife, and the interconnected habitats of the Florida Keys.

Spend an evening learning from a visiting expert while discovering more about the plants, wildlife, and ecosystems that make the Florida Keys unique.