Following an exploratory research project last year, the Owl Research Institute (ORI) has officially embarked on a long-term Saw-whet Owl banding station at the Flathead Lake Biological Station.

ORI scientists are also launching an inaugural public program called Fall Visitor Nights, which gives members of the community the opportunity to join in the research and fun.

Visitor Nights are open to the public, but advance registration is required.

Every Friday evening through November 3, ORI researchers will host visitors for a one-of-a-kind experience to learn about the natural history of Saw-whet Owls, ORI’s current research, and the impacts of their long-term data collection.

Whether banding nets are productive that night or not, visitors can expect to learn how ORI scientists safely and ethically catch and release these owls, touch real owl feathers and specimens, and talk to ORI field biologists about their work.

To register, visit https://www.owlresearchinstitute.org/fallvisitorregistration?utm_source=hootsuite&utm_medium=&utm_term=&utm_content=&utm_campaign=.