Owl Banding Field Trip Opportunity

On Oct. 16 with a rain date of Oct. 17; Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch (MSRW) invites its members and interested guests learn about owls migrating through the Straits area and observe the banding station. We hope to check the nets frequently and find at least one owl. You may watch our professional biologist, Selena Creed, as she weighs, determines the sex and age, bands, and releases the bird. MSRW conducts this fall migration Owl Survey and Banding Station at Point LaBarbe, Mackinac Co. just outside St. Ignace. This marks the second year of surveys covering the entire fall migration period. The trip will be canceled with inclement weather or high winds.

MSRW, a non-profit, volunteer organization funded by donations, runs Hawk and Owl migration surveys in the Straits area. Owls are surveyed through capturing them in mist nets as they migrate south through the Straits area, taking care to release them unharmed after recording data.  Volunteers will assist the bander in the surveys.

This field trip is limited to 20 participants. To reserve a spot contact Ed Pike, 231-758-3319 or email EdandAnne6750@gmail.com.

Take I-75 north across the Mackinac Bridge. Take the US 2 exit going west. After crossing over I-75 on US 2; take the first left to the Mackinac Bridge overlook, turning by a motel and a painted moose.  The road passes the Father Marquette Memorial.  Follow the road almost to the lake and turn left into the bridge overlook area, a building with restrooms and displays, overlooking the bridge.  We will meet at 7:30 pm at the building and then car-caravan to the banding station.

Bring a chair and flashlight. Depending on how late you will be staying, bring a snack and something (non-alcoholic) to drink. We will have a campfire (campfire wood donations appreciated) and discuss Owls and the research between net checks. People who are not already supporters of MSRW or any Audubon society are requested to make a donation to attend (suggested $20) to defray research costs.

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