An Evening with Saw-Whet Owls

In this one-of-a-kind, behind-the-scenes experience, you’ll observe a Project Owlnet banding operation in action while our owl experts share fascinating insights about owl behavior, conservation, and the science of banding. Enjoy light refreshments and drinks as you learn what researchers look for—and why this work matters. Throughout the program, specialized nets will be checked periodically, and when conditions are right, you’ll have the rare opportunity to see a Saw-whet Owl up close. Under the supervision of master bander Dan Best, and banding team members Ann Bugeda and Allison Huey, owls will be carefully banded, weighed, measured, and aged before being gently released back into the night.

A Few Notes Before You Arrive:

• While owl sightings cannot be guaranteed, this is historically the best time of year to observe them.

• Attendees will not be walking to the nets, but we recommend dressing warmly and bringing a flashlight (or using your phone’s flashlight) to walk 500 ft. from the lower gravel parking area to the estate room where the owls will be brought inside for banding.

This event is hosted by the Foundation for Geauga Parks in cooperation with Project Owlnet.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

We are grateful to Richard and Christie Frenchie, our Membership Program Presenting Sponsors, for their generous support of nature-related philanthropy in Geauga County.

Special thanks to Patterson Fruit Farm 🍎, our Guided Excursion Series Sponsor, for helping make this member experience possible - please support the businesses that support our parks! 

Patterson Fruit Farm is a 7th Generation family farm and market growing apples, peaches, and strawberries and producing and selling maple syrup. The farm market is open year round and provides a scenic location for visitors looking for the freshest fruit and produce, cider, gifts, and baked goods. Patterson Fruit Farm also offers "pick your own" fruit, a fall Family Fun Fest, event and wedding venues, cooking classes, group tours and more! https://pattersonfarm.com/ 

Know Before You Go 

Distance of Walk | Hike: ~500 foot driveway

Difficulty Level:  Easy

Trail Conditions: Gravel

Footwear & Clothing: We recommend dressing warmly for outdoor weather as we will be outside for ~5 to 10 minutes.

Dogs & Pets: Please leave dogs and other pets at home unless the event description specifically states that they are permitted. Service animals are welcome in accordance with applicable law.

What to Bring:  Bring a flashlight (or use your phone’s flashlight) to walk 500 ft. from the lower gravel parking area to the estate room.

Parking: Upon entering the estate, please proceed through the gate to the lower-level parking lot. From there, enjoy a short walk up to the mansion for the main event. Utilize your flashlight, as lighting may be limited along the path.

Additional Notes: Excursions take place in natural outdoor settings. Conditions may change due to weather, trail conditions, wildlife activity, or other site-specific factors. Foundation staff or excursion leaders may adjust the route or program as needed for participant safety and resource protection.

Ticket price for this Guided Excursion is $20 - proceeds benefit conservation, park enhancement, and nature education in Geauga County through the Foundation for Geauga Parks.

This series is included in the Foundation for Geauga Parks Membership Program:

-Member level participants may attend one Guided Excursion free per plan year.

-Member Plus level participants receive one free ticket AND a free ticket for a friend attending with you for one Guided Excursion per plan year.

Make sure you're logged into the website and when you enter your information and select your tickets, the membership option you chose will be applied.

If you can no longer attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we can release your spot to another guest. Registrations and ticket purchases are nonrefundable, but advance notice of cancellations is greatly appreciated, especially for limited-capacity programs and excursions.

If the event is canceled or postponed, registered attendees will be notified promptly and we will make every effort to reschedule. Unless otherwise noted, registrations and ticket purchases are nonrefundable.