Go Wild for Wildlife Event - Celebrate Endangered Species Day 2026

Celebrate Endangered Species Day on May 15 from 6:30 PM - 9 PM by joining us for a special gathering at the outdoor amphitheater to enjoy an exciting documentary, free native plant giveaway, and so much more!

The Invisible Mammal is a powerful documentary that unveils the hidden world of bats—one of the most essential yet misunderstood species on the planet. As natural pest controllers, a single bat can eat up to 1,000 mosquitoes in just one hour!

Sadly, bats are facing serious threats. In North America, diseases like White-nose syndrome have devastated populations—wiping out up to 90% in some areas—while ongoing habitat loss continues to put their survival at risk. This event is a chance to learn about these remarkable creatures and discover how we can help them survive.

Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZCjgQYsCw0

Here’s what to expect:

🌿 A beautiful outdoor amphitheater surrounded by nature to enjoy the film
🎥 View The Invisible Mammal documentary, learn about bats, and discover how we can protect them
🌱 Free native plant giveaway plus planting demo—take home trees and shrubs that support wildlife and a healthier environment (lightly used tree shelters for protection will be available)
🦇 Bat boxes available for purchase or sponsorship to support local bat populations (installation available!)
🍿 Popcorn & living water to enjoy during the film
🔥 Bonfire & s’mores after the film—stay, connect, and unwind under the stars ✨

🌿$10 per ticket - FREE for Kids 12 and under🌿

🌿Registration required 🌿

☔ In case of bad weather, we’ll email all registered attendees 24 hours in advance. The event will be rescheduled for our rain date: May 16.

Learn about Event Partners:

The REED Center for Ecosystem Reintegration is a Maryland-based nonprofit that seeks to repair the holistic connection of humans and their environment through research, engaging communities in farm programming, developing self-perpetuating ecosystems, and designing natural landscapes on residential and commercial scales. This if the first of the "Films in the Forest" series at The REED Center. To support The REED Center's mission, donate here: https://thereedcenter.org/donate

Maryland 5 Million Trees Program, a statewide initiative led by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Department of the Environment to plant five million native trees by 2031, is providing free native trees and shrubs. The program supports cleaner water, healthier communities, and climate resilience by expanding tree canopy across urban and rural landscapes—especially in areas that need it most. To learn more: https://dnr.maryland.gov/forests/Pages/5-million-trees.aspx

Helpful Resources for Planting Your Seedlings:

1. Tree-Planting Guide – Step-by-step instructions for planting and caring for your new trees

2. Shelter & Seedling Maintenance Guide – Tips for protecting seedlings and ensuring they thrive

3. Maryland's Recommended Tree List

Questions? Email southmountainoutreach@gmail.com.

For more information, visit www.southmountainoutreach.com.