This month Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy sponsored two programs about raptors, which are always crowd favorites.

Liz Dennison talks about Great Horned Owls.
Photo by Jim McWalters

The first program, Raptors of Virginia, took place on September 15 at Vanish Brewery in Lucketts and attracted a crowd of 40 people.  Liz and Tim Dennison from Secret Garden Birds and Bees were on hand with live raptor ambassadors to spread the word about the important role raptors play in a healthy ecosystem. At the event, attendees met Scarlett (Barred Owl), Hodor (Great Horned Owl), Olive (Barn Owl), Pippen (American Kestrel) and Little Red (Red-shouldered Hawk).  Attendees learned about each species: what they sound like, their habitat, eating habits and about their lives in captivity. Throughout the presentation, attendees had the chance to see the birds up close.

The second program, What is an Owl?, attracted over 110 people at House 6 Brewery in Ashburn on September 17. Liz and her team  were on hand again with live owl ambassadors to talk about what makes owls so special.  This presentation also included ambassadors Scarlett, Hodor and  Olive plus Kvosir (Eastern Screech Owl).  Attendees learned about some of the unique characteristics of owls, and the important role these iconic animals play today and throughout history. They were also given the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.

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