Teens can learn about owls and paint an owl picture at Feb. 5 MDC program

From a visual standpoint, it’s too bad owls are nocturnal. Besides having hunting habits that are beneficial to humans, these fascinating birds of the night have very attractive markings.

Teens can learn more about owls and turn these birds’ distinctive feather patterns into works of art at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s “Nature Painting” program on Feb. 5. This program, which is part of MDC’s Springfield Conservation Nature Center’s Conservation Teens activities, will be 1-3 p.m. and is for individuals ages 12-17. Individuals can register for this program at: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/182124.

Great horned owl
February, 1998

At the Feb. 5 program, volunteer naturalist Gala Keller will show participants how to paint an owl. MDC staff will also provide other information about owls while participants work on their artwork. All supplies will be provided. Participants should wear clothes they don’t mind getting paint on and they will be able to take their paintings home. COVID-19 measures will be in effect, which means participants will be asked to wear masks and to social distance.

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located in southeast Springfield at 4601 S. Nature Center Way. People can call for more information about the facility or any of the programs listed above at 417-888-4237. Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding in-person and virtual programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.