WOODSTOCK – The McHenry County Conservation District offers families a way to get outdoors for winter explorations.

• Winter Constellations: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 18 at Brookdale Conservation Area, 18410 Route 14, Woodstock. Under a hushed winter sky, participants will learn to identify a few major constellations and listen to the stories behind them. Dress for the weather and come prepared to be outside for part of the program, which is free for county residents and $5 for nonresidents. It is for adults and families. The registration deadline in Jan. 13.

• An Afternoon with the Short-Eared Owls: 4 to 5:30 p.m. Jan. 19 at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road, Ringwood. The short-eared owl is an Illinois endangered species, but visits Glacial Park every winter. Participants will take a winter hike at dusk to search for these special creatures. Attendees should bring binoculars if they have them, and dress for the weather. The afternoon will begin with a short indoor presentation at the Lost Valley Visitor Center. The program is free for county residents and $2 for nonresidents. It is for adults and families ages 8 and up. The registration deadline is Jan. 14.