A great horned owl (Photo courtesy Callie Wronker)
Many owls, especially some of the common owls in Maine, actually breed in the middle of winter, so now is prime time to go on an owl prowl. A full moon makes it even better.
Join Midcoast Conservancy for a full-moon hike and owl prowl to learn about all things owl-related. This event will take place from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 9 at Hidden Valley Nature Center, 131 Egypt Road, Jefferson. Attendees should meet at the nature center gate at 5 p.m. to enjoy a winter night in the woods. Bird enthusiast Jody Telfair-Richards will teach about owls as hikers are guided along a trail where owls are apt to be found calling and listening. After the walk, once the moon is up, hikers will warm up by the wood stove with tea and hot chocolate. Attendees should feel free to bring something to eat.
This event is great for all ages and abilities. The walk will be a little more than a mile, and the difficulty will vary depending on the ground conditions. Attendees may be walking on snowy trails, so please come prepared. Dress warmly with plenty of layers, and bring snowshoes if necessary. Snowshoes are available for use by reservation. Remember to bring a headlamp or flashlight even though everyone will mostly be walking without light.
There is a $5 fee to attend this event. Register online at bit.ly/2ixpJ0G. Call 389-5150 or email info@midcoastconservancy.org with any questions.
