Itty-Bitty Adorable Owls (Rating: D)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

This is NOT a hike -- but a RARE CHANCE TO ATTEND A NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL BANDING!

If you thought snowy owls were cool, wait until you meet teensy Northern Saw-whet Owls up close. Cornell University calls this cutie: "A tiny owl with a catlike face, oversized head, and bright yellow eyes...(and it) is practically bursting with attitude." Plus, it's the smallest owl you'll find on the East Coast -- and only during their brief fall migration.

Beware that there is NO GUARANTEE we'll see owls. That's generally how all bird bandings are. But experts say that migration is supposed to be at least a week late this year so we hope to at least see one or two.

We'll attend this bird banding by licensed bander Alex Pellegrini -- one of our region's most STELLAR banders and researchers. This is part of their public outreach program to get people hooked on all our beautiful birds since their populations have plummeted. (Nearly 3 BILLION birds have been lost in North America since 1970, Cornell and other experts estimate. https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/bring-birds-back/ ) We'll learn about the awesome owls and how they band these critters with razor-sharp talons. If/when they catch owls in their mist nets, we should have lots of time to photograph them and help assist with their release.

IMPORTANT NOTES: Adults only. No pets, including pet owls. Our end time of 11 pm is approximate.

BRING: Sense of awe, sense of humor, WARM, WARM, WARM -- VERY WARM - CLOTHING to wear while sitting near a mountaintop around the start of meteorological WINTER. (Dress in layers. Heavy coat (remember, we're NOT hiking so you won't generate heat), hat, scarf/neck gaiter, wool socks, warm shoes, gloves, hand/toe warmers, etc.) Also, bring water (or hot cocoa), a snack and a camera (*NO FLASHES ARE PERMITTED*) Optional: folding chair.

DONATIONS ENCOURAGED: While not mandatory, donations are encouraged since each saw-whet owl banding station is volunteer-run and depends on donations. The umbrella organization is Project Owlet.

MEET: 8 p.m. Site near South Mountain, MD. Exact location will be messaged to confirmed attendees. ATTENDEES ARE REQUIRED TO AGREE *NOT* TO POST ANY LOCATION ONLINE.

RESTROOMS: Portapotty at site.

WEATHER: Bander will contact leader the day before the hike if weather will cause a cancellation.

EVENT LINK TO SHARE:
https://www.meetup.com/nvhc-hiking/events/311746607/

NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWLS:
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Saw-whet_Owl/

PROJECT OWLNET:
https://www.projectowlnet.org