The Potomac Valley Audubon Society is sponsoring a birding trip to the National Conservation Training Center outside Shepherdstown on Saturday, Feb. 8.

The trip will start at 8 a.m. and last about three hours. It will involve walking about two miles over moderate terrain.

The trip is free and anyone with an interest is welcome to come along. Children will be welcome.

However, space will be limited and pre-registration is required. To register, go to the PVAS website at www.potomacaudubon.org no later than Feb. 6.

For more information, please contact trip leader Sandy Sagalkin at monsansagalkin@myactv.net or 240-291-6465.

The Center’s 538-acre campus is not normally open to the public, so this is a good opportunity to visit the campus and enjoy their trails while birding.

The campus contains a mix of fields and forest, providing good habitat for a rich variety of bird species such as sparrows, juncos, raptors, bluebirds, woodpeckers, waterfowl and other birds of winter. It also should provide a good opportunity to see NCTC’s resident Bald Eagles.

Everyone should plan to wear comfortable walking or hiking boots that can protect against possible cold, muddy or snowy tails and dress appropriately for the prevailing weather conditions.

PVAS will provide binoculars for those who do not have their own.

The trip may be cancelled if there is bad weather. For further information or to check on possible weather cancellation, contact Mr. Sagalkin.