MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center plans owl prowl

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 the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) “Owl Prowl” event on Friday, Feb. 11 at MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center. At this event, which will be from 7 p.m.-9 p.m., program participants will take a guided night hike along trails near the Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center. People can register for this program at: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/182402.

The barred owl is one of several owl species people will be able to learn about at a Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) owl prowl on Feb. 11 at MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center in Branson.

At learning stations set up along the hike, MDC naturalists will have information about how to identify some of the species of owls found in Missouri and will also describe the special adaptations that make owls such effective night-time hunters. People will also have chances to call and listen for owls.

People should bring a flashlight and should dress for the weather. COVID procedures will be in place for this program.

MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Conservation Center is located at 483 Hatchery Road on the west end of Lake Taneycomo and is part of MDC’s Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery. For more information about this program or other upcoming events at Shepherd of the Hills, call 417-334-4865, ext. 0.

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.