Owl Prowl slated for Rouge Park.
Theresa Fernandes, 3, left, her mother Susie and sister Jenny, 5, took part in the annual Rouge Park bird count earlier this year. An Owl Prowl event is set for the Rouge Valley on Family Day, which is Feb. 20.
Staff file photo/DAN PEARCE
Local residents are invited to escape the city and see nature in a different light by watching the owls of Rouge Park at the Rouge Valley Conservation Centre on Monday, Feb. 20.
One of the foundation's biologists will lead the evening of discovery and adventure beginning with a short presentation on owls and their ecology along with local coyotes, followed by a trip into the woods.
According to David Lawrie, director of programs at the RVCC, the Rouge has two species of owls that can be found regularly in valley. They are the Great Horned Owl and the smaller Eastern Screech Owl.
Lawrie said that during the winter months, there are also occasional visiting owls from the north that come south including the Great Great owl and the Northern Saw-whet Owl.
He said it's important for an "understanding to be developed between people and place in order for some of our most important natural and ecological to be more effectively protected."
Lawrie added that there are many "common" species ending up on the endangered species list and it's important to have an understanding to prevent it from happening.
"The Owl Prowl provides people of the Toronto area an opportunity to learn about the species and ecosystem processes that go unseen and unheard every day, and which are typically undervalued," he said.
"The excitement and uniqueness of encountering an owl in the forest at night is an experience that most people will carry with them through the rest of their life," he said.
Participants are encouraged to dress warmly by wearing boots, hats, scarfs. mitts and to dress in layers. The centre also recommends that participants bring a travel mug, as hot chocolate, tea and coffee will be provided.
The event is free, but there is a suggested donation of $2 per person to cover costs. The event is recommended for adults and children over five years of age.
Enrollment is limited, so please RSVP to sign up.
The event will run from 7 p.m to 9 p.m. The presentation on owls will commence from 7 until 7:30 p.m followed by the hike from 7:45 to 9 p.m.
The Rouge Valley Conservation Centre is located at 1749 Meadowvale Rd.
Registrations are through email only - info@rvcc.ca. If people do not have access to an email, they can leave a message at the centre at 416-282-8265.