Families “bug out” at Meadowood’s night of nature and discovery

To kick off the new school year, east coast youth had increased access to recreation in a night of discovery. Staff from the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Lower Potomac Field Station (LPFS) hosted a “Back to School Bug Nite” August 30 at the Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area. With help from the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance (NVBA) and Virginia Master Naturalists, parts of Mustang Meadow were illuminated to attract nighttime critters for observation and identification.  

Judy Gallagher and Tom Wood with the NVBA provided specialized lighting and power, setting the stage for a night of discovery. Families from across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area came to “bug out,” and the evening quickly became a community favorite. 

Engaging the Community 

Events like Bug Nite highlight the value of access to public lands while creating meaningful opportunities for people to get outdoors. people get outdoors. Many visitors were surprised to learn that Meadowood is public land managed by BLM and that it offers environmental education, recreation, and outreach opportunities. The evening also strengthened BLM’s partnerships with local organizations and opened the door for future recreation events. 

Activities for All Ages 

Upon arrival, guests were welcomed with glow sticks to light the way as the sun set. Three interactive tables were set up for visitors: 

• Craft & Play: Firefly glow stick crafts and family-friendly activities 

• Learn & Explore: Junior Ranger booklets, stickers, and take-home resources 

• Discover & Observe: Insect life cycle displays and live terrariums 

As night fell, glowing circles of children’s bracelets and necklaces bobbed through the meadow, creating a magical atmosphere while everyone waited for the bugs to appear. 

Nature’s Main Attractions 

The star of the night was a Catalpa Sphynx moth (Ceratomia catalpa), a large hawk moth that lingered at the light station long enough to be admired up close. It was gently relocated to a nearby shrub before the evening wrapped up. Other notable sightings included tiger moths, webworm moths, leafhoppers, and many more. Although the unusually cool late-August evening limited some insect activity, participants were thrilled with the diversity of species observed. Judy Gallagher noted that future Bug Nites may be held in different habitats to increase both attendance and biodiversity of the insects seen. 

A Community Hit 

As families departed, many asked when Meadowood would host its next Bug Nite. The event was filled with laughter, learning and glowing excitement.  

Bug Nite proved to be a resounding success for the Mason Neck community, and LPFS staff are already looking forward to planning an even bigger and better event in the future.