The Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah Forest just outside of Brevard will host a night for nature enthusiasts of all ages to learn more about night-flying animals during the Winged Creatures of the Night Program from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. July 14.

Moths, bats and owls are among the animals active at night when many people are settled into bed.

Children can make a luna moth finger puppet to take home. After a short program of nature-oriented songs, naturalists will describe the special adaptations animals have for going about the business of living from dusk to dawn. Winged creatures, such as bats and owls, play important roles in the forest because they help keep mosquito and mouse populations in check.

After the talk, naturalists will lead the group on a stroll through the evening woods in search of winged creatures of the night. Along the way, participants will see and hear a demonstration of acoustic monitoring equipment used to survey local bat activity. This device allows the human ear to hear bats’ echolocation, the biological sonar they use to navigate and forage in the dark.  

The fee is $6 for ages 16 and older; $3 for youth 15 and under and America the Beautiful and Golden Age pass holders.

828.877.3130 or www.cradleofforestry.org