The Potomac Valley Audubon Society will sponsor an “Animal Discovery Hike” at its Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve in Berkeley County on Saturday, Feb. 13. The hike is part of a new series of Audubon-sponsored “Family Outdoor Adventures” that are aimed at involving children and their families in interesting and educational outdoor activities.

This event will focus on learning about the wildlife that inhabit wetlands in this region.

The event will last from 1 to 3 p.m. Families with children of all ages will be welcome. There will be a fee of $5 per family, space will be limited and pre-registration will be required. To register, go to the PVAS website at www.potomacaudubon.org.

The hike will be led by an experienced guide. It will be focused on looking for tracks, nests, dens, and other signs of animals that live in the marsh, such as birds, raccoons, foxes and muskrats.

The Preserve is only 46 acres in size, so the distances to be walked are not great. However, the terrain includes wet meadows and marshlands, as well as dry areas, so waterproof footwear is essential.

Participants should also plan to dress for the prevailing weather conditions. Ticks can be an issue at the preserve year round, so tick repellent is recommended if air temperatures are significantly above freezing.

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.

For more information contact Krista Hawley at adultprograms@potomacaudubon.org or 703-303-1026.