Who, who: Museum’s August lecture is all about owls

CARSON CITY, Nevada – Nevadans might be surprised to know their state is home to nearly a dozen species of owl, including the great horned owl – the largest nocturnal bird of prey in the state. Owls occupy a variety of habitats throughout Nevada but are seldom seen by the public because much of their activity occurs at night. “Unless you’re out at night in the right place, you’ll probably never see them,” said Jenni Jeffers, a wildlife biologist with the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Jeffers will share her knowledge of owls as the monthly speaker at the Nevada State Museum’s Frances Humphrey Lecture Series. And she’ll be bringing some wingmen with her, so to speak – several live owls that attendees at the lecture will be able to see, including a barn owl and a great-horned owl. The event is Thursday, Aug. 24 at the South Gallery inside the Nevada State Museum. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the presentation begins at 6:30. The cost is $8 for adults; free for museum members and children 17 and younger. Jeffers earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in wildlife biology from New Mexico State University and started her career as a wildlife biologist with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. She also worked as a wildlife researcher for South Dakota State University, tracking large mammals such as deer and mountain lion using radio telemetry. She moved to Nevada in 2001 and has been the Western Region wildlife biologist with the Nevada Department of Wildlife for the past 16 years. Jeffers is responsible for the survey and monitoring of all species of birds, including owls. Seating is limited to this event and those who want to attend can reserve a seat by contacting Mary Covington at 687-4810, ext. 224 or mcovington@nevadaculture.org. Please be aware that for the safety of the owls and the audience, photography will not be permitted at this lecture. AT A GLANCE What: Frances Humphrey Lecture Series: “Owls in Nevada” by Jenni Jeffers When: Thursday, Aug. 24; doors open at 6 p.m. and lecture begins at 6:30. Where: Nevada State Museum, 600 N. Carson Street, Carson City. Cost: $8 for adults; free for museum members and ages 17 and under. Details: George Baumgardner, Ph.D, gbaumgardner@nevadaculture.org 775-687-4810, ext. 236.