Migratory owl banding will occur nearly nightly from mid-October through early November at Indiana Dunes State Park for the first time, and visitors are invited to observe.

The process will be done in cooperation with the Friends of Indiana Dunes and the Northwest Indiana Migratory Bird Association.

Those interested can get up-close looks at the tiny northern saw-whet owl and join the park's interpreters for any of the public demonstration nights or call the Nature Center for banding schedule updates, since most banding depends on favorable weather. Public demonstrations are scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 13; Friday, Oct. 23; and Tuesday, Oct. 27. Each starts at 7 p.m. CDT at the Nature Center.

The saw-whet owl is Indiana's smallest owl and migrates through the state, nearly undetected, in October and November. Most Indiana birders and wildlife enthusiasts never get a chance to see them at all, let alone up close.

Anyone wishing to volunteer during the banding project or wanting more information may call (219) 926-1390.

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