Saw-whet owl banding at Flathead Lake Biological Station
Pre-registered visitors will get the chance to get up close with saw-whet owls. (Courtesy photo)
Join Darcy Thomas and Flathead Audubon on Wednesday, Oct. 2 or Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 7 p.m. to approximately 10 p.m. to observe the Owl Research Institute capture and band the small Northern Saw-whet Owl.
The Owl Research Institute (ORI) is running a Saw-whet owl banding station at Flathead Lake Biological Station (FLBS) this fall. The data collected from the migration station will contribute to global efforts to learn more about the migration routes, timing and habitat use of this charismatic little owl. These outings offer the public an opportunity to learn, observe, and ask questions. Owl researchers from ORI will do a short presentation to explain the process, then check the mist nets. If an owl is captured, it will be banded. Nets will be checked every hour. The workers will discuss owl ecology and answer questions in between net checks. A typical evening results in the capture of 0-10 owls. This event takes place outdoors; dress for the weather, it can be quite chilly. Bring hot beverages, snacks, a foldable chair or stool to sit on, and bear spray.
The group will meet a staff member at the FLBS main gate at 7 p.m (gate will be locked) to be let in. Parking will be in the main lot and then a short walk to the banding station (about 1/3 mile). People with disabilities can be accommodated if we know in advance. You can stay as long as you like, the gate will open automatically when you leave. Generally, people stay a couple of hours, but no later than midnight. There will be items for purchase if you desire (shirts, etc.).
Sessions will be canceled/rescheduled if it is raining, snowing or excessively windy.
Sign up is required, the program is free and open to the public. Please contact Darcy Thomas at (406) 407-8263 or darcy@flatheadaudubon.org or Margaret Parodi at (406) 837-1371 or mrparodi@charter.net. We require both a phone contact and email address in case of having to reschedule due to inclement weather.
More information is available at flatheadaudubon.org.