The Potomac Valley Audubon Society will sponsor a birding trip to its Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve in Berkeley County on Sunday, Jan. 18. The trip will begin at 8 a.m. It will be led by local birder Steve Hartman.

The event is free and open to anyone with an interest. Children will be welcome. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged but not required. Easy registration is available on the Society’s website at www.potomacaudubon.org.

The Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve is located in Back Creek Valley in Berkeley County, one-half mile south of Shanghai, on the east side of Back Creek Valley Road (County Route 7).

Meet in the gravel parking area at the north end the marsh.

The marsh is an excellent birding site any time of year. Species likely to be sighted during January include winter birds, waterfowl and raptors.

The preserve is only 46 acres in size, so the distances to be walked are not great. However, the terrain will include wet meadows and marshlands, as well as dry areas, so waterproof footwear is strongly recommended.

Ticks can be an issue at the preserve year round, so tick repellent is also recommended if air temperatures are significantly above freezing.

Participants should dress for the prevailing weather and bring water. Binoculars will be available for anyone who needs them. The trip may be canceled in the event of bad weather.

For more information go to the PVAS website or contact Krista Hawley at 703-303-1026 or adultprograms@potomacaudubon.org.