WALDORF, Md. — A day dedicated to owls, wildlife and outdoor discovery is taking flight in Waldorf this spring as Westlake High School prepares to host a community Bird Festival.
The family-friendly event is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Westlake High School, located at 3300 Middletown Road, and will feature live birds, hands-on activities and opportunities for families to learn more about the wildlife that lives right here in Southern Maryland.
Hosted by the Westlake High School Environmental Club, the festival will highlight owls found in Maryland while inviting Charles County Public Schools students, their families and the wider community to spend the day exploring nature together.
Visitors can expect a mix of educational and fun activities throughout the day. Planned attractions include live birds on display, arts and crafts, kid activity booths, birding field trips, guest speakers and games for all ages. A food vendor will also be on site during the event.
The festival comes as part of Earth Month, a time each April when schools and communities across the country highlight environmental awareness and encourage people to connect with the natural world. Earth Month grew from Earth Day, first celebrated in 1970 and now observed each year on April 22.
For students involved with the Environmental Club, the festival offers a chance to share their interest in wildlife while creating a welcoming space for families to learn and explore together.
Owls Found In Southern Maryland
According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), eight owl species occur in Maryland, though only a few are commonly seen across the state and in Southern Maryland.
- Short-eared owl – A less common winter visitor that prefers open marshes and grasslands.
- Great horned owl – A large owl known for its ear tufts and deep hooting call.
- Barred owl – Common in wooded areas near water and known for its distinctive “who cooks for you” call.
- Eastern screech-owl – A small owl often found in wooded neighborhoods and suburban areas.
- Barn owl – Recognized by its pale, heart-shaped face and silent flight, often seen near farms and open fields.
DNR also notes that several other species occasionally pass through Maryland or appear during migration, including the northern saw-whet owl, short-eared owl, long-eared owl and snowy owl.
Admission To The Bird Festival Is Free And Open To The Public
Organizers hope the event will inspire curiosity about these birds while encouraging families to appreciate the wildlife living in their own backyards.
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