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Truman Elementary hosts Family Night with owl presentation
Truman Elementary School held a Family Night on Monday evening, March 20, at the Ella Maxwell Performing Arts Center. The event was for students and parents. Two volunteers from the Dickerson Park Zoo in Springfield, Missy Criters and Nicole Cloud, spoke to the group about the different types of owls found in Missouri.
The volunteers explained that Snowy Owls only live in Missouri from November to April. Burrowing Owls, Barred Owls, and Screeching Owls live in the state year-round, while Great Grey Owls do not live in Missouri at all.
During the presentation, the volunteers showcased two different owls. The first owl was a Barn Owl, also known as a monkey owl due to the shape of their faces. The volunteers shared that the zoo had this owl since 2014, and the average weight of a Barn Owl is between 14-25 ounces. They hunt at night, and females tend to be larger than males. They also have different sets of wings.
The other owl was a Barred Owl, known for their feathers in a barred pattern. The volunteers shared that this owl has been at the zoo since 1999. Barred Owls do not grip their feet or nails tightly, and they can turn their heads 270 degrees to look around. They have more bones in their necks than humans, and they are known for their excellent eyesight in the dark. Barred Owls commonly eat mice, do not migrate far, have a third eyelid, and do not enjoy being petted.
The volunteers stated that the owls live in the zoo's Educational Center, which is not open to visitors. The presentation concluded with the volunteers answering questions from the students. The students enjoyed learning and seeing the different owls.