The Potomac Valley Audubon Society is sponsoring a special nighttime field trip to watch an expert catch, band, and release migrating owls on South Mountain, in Washington County, Maryland.

The trip will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14. It will start at about 9 p.m. and last until approximately 11:30 p.m.

These trips have long been a favorite for whole families, and interested members of the public are invited to participate.

There is no fee but a donation of $5 or $10 to the South Mountain owl banding station is suggested. This will help support the station’s work.

The expert who will conduct the banding is Steve Huy, who has been banding owls on the mountain for many years as part of Project OwlNet.

The owls he will be banding are the Northern Saw-Whet Owl, the smallest owl in eastern North America. Visits to his banding site offer a unique opportunity to see these birds up close and learn about their life history

Pre-registration is essential because space for the trip is limited to 30 persons.

To pre-register, go to the PVAS website at www.potomacaudubon.org.

For more information, contact Carolyn Thomas at crthomas25443@gmail.com or 304-267-3115.

This trip involves a walk over uneven ground and it is therefore not recommended for anyone who needs assistance.

Participants should bring a flashlight and be sure to dress warmly.

Owls do not fly if it is raining, so the trip may be canceled if conditions are not favorable.