Join naturalist and photographer Bonnie Ott on the search for spiders and insects through the Howard County Conservancy property. We’ll spend much of our time at a slow, steady pace, turning over leaves to look for spiders and other insects along the mown trails. We’ll focus on bolas spiders and learn how to find them. Bonnie has found three species on the property.
Bolas spiders are unique among the spider family. They do not spin webs to catch prey, but instead lasso unsuspecting insects by creating a sticky “bolas” that is launched at the prey. Bolas are also masters of disguise, able to hide in plain sight by imitating bird droppings or plant galls.
Bonnie is a long-time birder and over the years has developed interests in all aspects of the natural world. Bonnie always appreciated odonates, or dragonflies and damselflies, and they have become her main focus in the last few years. Bonnie has assisted odonate researcher Richard Orr with his surveys and has been the field trip chairman of the Howard Bird Club since 1990. She leads numerous bird walks for the local chapter of the Maryland Ornithological Society and the Audubon Naturalist Society. Bonnie’s photostream is found here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/sparrowbon/page2.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Trails are mown grass and may be wet.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray, and camera with accessories.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
- Bring your guidebooks, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
- All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.