Members’ Only Outing – Owl Prowl

Date:  Sunday 26 March

Time: 7:00 PM – probably late

Meeting Location: We will meet in the Arnprior Metro store parking lot.  Park opposite the store but close to the road.

Carpooling:  You must let me know when you register if you will be carpooling with anyone (and if so, with whom), if you are willing to carpool with someone or if you would take someone in your vehicle.

I have put a multiple-choice selection for this in the email.  Please copy and paste (or highlight) the relevant choice(s) as mentioned in the email in your registration email.  Preference will be given to those with two or more people in their vehicle or those willing to carpool.  I will need to know the number of vehicles expected as it may not be safe to stop at some points along the route with an unlimited number of vehicles and the number will therefore be capped. (I will assume members of the same household will travel in one vehicle.)

Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

Leader: Michael Runtz

Michael will lead the group to several locations along rural roadways in the Arnprior/Pakenham area where we can expect to find owls.  Target species are:  Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech Owl.  Along the way, the group will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds.  Dress very warmly (warm comfortable boots are especially important as are ice grips depending on conditions) as we will be standing outside for periods of time.  Bring a flashlight/headlamp and binoculars if you have them.

The duration of the event will depend on the time it takes the group to find our target species.  This may make it a bit of a late evening.  Please respect that quiet is sometimes essential when getting out of vehicles (please close doors softly and keep any talking to a low whisper).  Also respect that there is other traffic on the roadways where we stop.  Please consider these things when deciding whether this is an appropriate event for your children both for their benefit and that of the other participants.

A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill (with any virus), have come in contact with someone who is ill (with any virus) or has tested positive for Covid 19 or has been told to isolate.  Please check this on behalf of the children you are bringing.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

While registration will be by first come, first served basis, maximizing participation through carpooling will also be registration priority. Confirmation emails will be sent. You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only but I must have the required information about your carpool plans at the time of registration.

Register for this outing at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com Please include the full names of all in your household who will be attending no later than Tuesday March 21st.   Please also list if you have room in your vehicle for passengers, if you would prefer to ride with someone.  Further carpooling may be arranged on site prior to the outing.