In celebration of National Moth Week, Ouabache Land Conservancy is offering a night out on the prairie at Atherton Island Natural Area in southwestern Parke County on July 26, from 8:30 - 11:00 pm. This is for all nature enthusiasts that would like to learn about prairie, creatures of the night, “foxfire”, and skygazing.  An optional easy walk around the prairie will start at 8:30 pm to discover what flowers are blooming for our native pollinators.  At 9:15 pm, Providence Wildlife Rehabilitation, will have an owl program featuring their Great Horned and Screech owl ambassadors courtesy of the Wabash Valley Audubon Society.  Afterward, we’ll attract and identify many species of moths, beetles, antlions, and other insects up-close using black lights. Participants will see the many different moth patterns, colors, and behaviors, as well as learn about the essential role of moths as pollinators. Information about what native plants to plant for moths and other pollinators will be shared.  In addition, we’ll be monitoring bat activity with the aid of a bat detector.  We’ll also see the fascinating fungi of Atherton Island Natural Area known as “foxfire” that begin to glow after dark.  Lastly, there will be a telescope available to do some skygazing by the nearby campfire.

Moth Night Out is a free family-friendly event (no pre-registration required) and will be held at Atherton Island Natural Area, with parking available at 6540 W CR 800 S, Rosedale, IN (near Lyford, about 0.7 miles east of Hwy 41).  Please carpool as much as possible as parking is limited and overflow parking will likely be used.  Water and an accessible porta-potty will be provided.  Please bring your own tick/mosquito repellent as needed.