Next month, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources invites people of all ages to bundle up and head outdoors for a nighttime adventure at Michigan state park Owl Prowls. These evening programs feature a guided walk through the woods in search of owls and other wild nightlife.

Participants will spend 30-45 minutes walking through the woods calling for owls. Many programs also feature educational presentations about owls and some feature campfires and refreshments. Owl Prowls are a free and fun way to get outdoors, spend time with friends or family and learn about Michigan's wildlife.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as the events will take place snow, rain or shine.

Owl Prowls are scheduled at the following state parks and recreation areas:

Ludington State Park (Mason County): Saturday, Dec. 6, at 5 p.m.
Meet at the park warming shelter near the park entrance located near 8800 W. M-116. The program will be led by local birding enthusiast Dave Dister, who is currently writing a book about the birds of Ludington State Park. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For details call the park at 989-313-0000.

Maybury State Park (Wayne County): Saturday, Dec. 6, at 6 p.m.
Meet at the concession building, using the 8 Mile Road entrance located just west of Beck Road (49575 8 Mile Road, Northville). Bring something to drink, a roasting stick, if desired, and a flashlight. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Maybury State Park. Pre-registration is required by visitingwww.friendsofmaybury.org. For details call the park at 248-349-8390.

Bald Mountain Recreation Area (Oakland County): Friday, Dec. 12, and Saturday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m.
Meet at the hearth shelter. S'mores will be provided prior to the hike. Pre-registration is required by calling 248-693-6767. For details, call the park at 248-693-6767.

Brighton Recreation Area (Livingston County): Friday, Dec. 19, at 4:30 p.m.
Meet at Chilson Pond, located behind the headquarters building on Chilson Road. For details, call the park at 810-229-6566.

A Recreation Passport is required for any motor vehicle entering a Michigan state park, boat launch, state forest campground or nonmotorized state trailhead parking. Residents can purchase the Passport for just $11 ($5 for motorcycles) at the time of Michigan license plate renewal through Secretary of State. Forgot to check "YES" during renewal? Residents and nonresidents can purchase a Recreation Passport window sticker during regular business hours at state parks. Learn more about how the Recreation Passport supports state parks and local outdoor recreation opportunities at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Contact: Stephanie Wirtz, 989-686-2790 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815