Birds do it, bees do it, and sentimental fleas. In a fun, science-filled illustrated lecture, Mike presents the extraordinary life stories of animals’ reproductive adaptations. From giraffes “necking,” to male anglerfish hanging around literally forever, from gender-bending clownfish, to overly-endowed banana slugs, and the infamous praying mantis; you’ll be in disbelief at the remarkable antics of sex in the animal kingdom.
10:30 am  |  in-person and virtual (refreshments begin at 10 am for in-person attendees)

The Ladew Landscape: Four Seasons Photographing the Gardens
10:30 am  |  in-person and virtual (refreshments begin at 10 am for in-person attendees)
Join Paula Reynolds, 2025 Artist in Residence, as she will recount her preparation and commitment to photographing Ladew Gardens over the past four seasons. Paula will detail how consideration of garden design, architecture, blooming seasons, and the optimal time of the day all contribute to the creation of her stunning photography. Her residency at Ladew has resulted in an archive of compositions to be revisited seasonally, and for years to come. The 2025 Art Show, featuring highlighted work from Paula, will be hanging in the Gallery during the time of her lecture.

During this session, Ellen Frost will demonstrate a foam free, sustainable floral design that celebrates the richness of fall in the Mid-Atlantic, using locally grown flowers, branches, and foliage that highlight the textures and tones of the season. Ellen will explore designing with the seasons and demonstrate that local flowers are the key to creative designs that feel natural, abundant, and deeply connected to place.
10:30 am  |  in-person and virtual (refreshments begin at 10 am for in-person attendees)

Join us for an engaging and educational talk about some of nature's most misunderstood creatures - bats! Discover the vital roles bats play in ecosystems around the world, from pollination and seed dispersal, to natural pest control. This session will explore the incredible diversity of the bat species globally, with a special focus on the bats found right here in Maryland. Kerry Wixted will explain why bat populations are declining, what threats they face, and, most importantly, how you can help. Whether you're a nature-enthusiast, gardener, or just curious about these fascinating flying mammals, this talk will shine a light on the many ways bats benefit our world and what we can do to protect them.
10:30 am  |  in-person and virtual (refreshments begin at 10 am for in-person attendees)

Join Colston Burrell for a journey through stunning gardens and fascinating landscapes on a travelogue that spans the globe to show how nature and art conspire in the world’s greatest gardens. This session will traipse through America’s scenic wonders, from the Shenandoah to Yellowstone, and explore the secrets of Costa Rica’s rainforests and South Africa’s bush. Inspired by nature’s majesty, Colston’s lecture will visit magnificent gardens, both public and private, with wild nature as the backdrop. Rio’s Jardim Botanico, Cape Town’s Kirstenbosch, England’s Great Dixter and New York’s Long House will be just a few of our destinations.
10:30 am  |  in-person and virtual (refreshments begin at 10 am for in-person attendees)