Whoooo goes there?

Begin the evening with an interactive presentation exploring the unique physical and behavioural adaptations that make owls such successful nocturnal hunters. Then observe Wild Birds Unlimited Toronto’s licensed bird banders as they safely capture, examine, and band migrating Northern Saw-whet Owls as part of an ongoing conservation and research program.

Participants will have the opportunity to see a Northern Saw-whet Owl up close while learning how bird banding contributes to migration research and owl conservation. Although owl sightings can never be guaranteed because they are wild animals, there is a good chance of seeing one during the banding demonstration. This is a rare opportunity to witness wildlife research in action and experience one of Ontario’s most elusive nocturnal birds up close.

Rain Date: If weather conditions prevent the event from taking place, it will be rescheduled for the following week (Saturday, October 24, 2026). Registrants will be emailed by 3:00pm on the day of the event if there is a cancellation. Please direct any questions regarding the cancellation policy for this event to jennifer.miles@trca.ca.

Please Note: Owl banding is conducted under the appropriate federal permits by trained and licensed bird banders. The welfare of the birds is always the highest priority, and all handling follows established ethical and scientific protocols.

This event is intended for a general audience:
– Beginner-level information
– Includes intermediate concepts
– Content intended for older youth and adults
– Part of the program will be held outside, please dress appropriately for a fall evening. Temperatures drop significantly once the sunsets, so don’t forget to bring a toque, scarf, and gloves!
– Washrooms are available on site.
– Bring a personal water bottle and snacks (nut-free), if needed.

Event Details

Location: Claireville Outdoor Education Centre (8180 Hwy 50, Brampton, ON L6T 0A7)

Ticket Price: Tickets for this event are $20.00 + HST + Eventbrite fees.

Parking: When you arrive at Claireville Conservation Area off Hwy 50 (Between Gore Road and Steeles Avenue) please drive into the Conservation Area and follow the white daisies flower signs to the Outdoor Education Centre.
Meeting location: From the parking lot, follow the pathway and look for the “Nature Program” signs directing you to the basement entrance of the Outdoor Education Centre.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests received by TRCA more than 14 days before the start of the program will receive a 75% refund of the relevant program fees paid. Cancellation requests received by TRCA less than 14 days before the start of the program do not qualify for a refund. Minimum registration numbers required for program to operate. In the event TRCA must cancel the program due to low registration or government order, a full refund will be issued (minus the eventbrite fees).

Waitlist Info: If the event is sold out, please register on the waitlist. A TRCA staff will contact with you 3 days prior to the event.

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is committed to creating an accessible experience for all participants. If you require an accessibility accommodation, please email jennifer.miles@trca.ca at least 7 days prior to the event.