Local pet events: Dec. 30 through Jan. 6

Dec. 30

• Lake Renwick Heron Rookery – Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset through Feb. 28. Hiking, running, bird viewing programs. Visit bit.ly/renwickreopens.

• Volunteer orientation – 5:30 to 7 p.m., Hopeful Tails Animal Rescue, 2303 Oak Leaf St., Joliet. Come dressed to volunteer for a short training. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty. RSVP at 779-206-2132. For information, visithopefultailsanimalrescue.org.

Jan. 3

• "Hoot in the New Year," 7 to 9 p.m., Jan. 3; and 4 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., Jan. 4, at Hickory Creek Preserve – LaPorte Road Access, Mokena. Celebrate the New Year by joining a 1.5-mile naturalist-led hike to search for owls and discover more about these amazing predators at Hickory Creek Preserve. Enjoy a fire, hot cocoa and marshmallows. Bring your favorite mug and camping chair to sit by the fire. The 7 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m. Saturday hikes are for all ages; the 7 p.m. Saturday hike is for ages 16 or older. Register at ReconnectWithNature.org or call 708-946-2216.

Jan. 5

• "Meet a Beekeeper" – 12:30 to2:30 p.m., Plum Creek Nature Center, Beecher. Q&A. 18 and older. Free. Registration is not required. For information, visit r econnectwithnature.org.