MDC invites public to learn about and listen for owls

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News from the region
Southwest
Published Date
01/28/2019
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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Because of owls’ nocturnal lifestyles and their hunting of mice, rats and other rodents that can be pests for humans; these night-time birds are a fascinating and beneficial part of Missouri’s outdoors.

People can learn more about the species of owls found in Missouri at two free Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) programs in February.

Feb. 8 at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center: This “Owl Prowl” will be from 7-8:30 p.m. and will feature an indoor and outdoor component. In the nature center’s auditorium, staff from Dickerson Park Zoo will bring live owls to provide up-close looks at some of the species found in this area. Then program participants will take a guided evening stroll along nature center trails where MDC staff will try to call owls and listen for answers. Participants should bring flashlights and dress for the weather. The program is for all ages. People can register at: mdc.mo.gov/SouthwestEvents. For more information, call 417-888-4237. The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is at 4601 S. Nature Center Way near highways 60 and 65.

Feb. 8 at the Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery’s Conservation Center: This “Owl Prowl” will be 7-9 p.m. and will feature an indoor and outdoor component. In the Conservation Center auditorium, participants will learn about owls and their special adaptations to nocturnal living. Then program participants will take an evening stroll along nearby trails where MDC staff will try to call owls and get them to answer. Participants should bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. The program is for all ages. People can register for this program at: mdc.mo.gov/SouthwestEvents. People can call 417-334-4865 for more information. The Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery is located at 483 Hatchery Road on the west end of Lake Taneycomo near Branson.

Information about owls in Missouri can also be found at mdc.mo.gov.