Owls are establishing their territory and preparing to nest, which begins in the heart of winter, according to Rick Kneisel, Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist.

Now that the leaves have fallen, it is a perfect time of year to spot owls and learn about their habitat and life cycle. He will be leading the annual Owl Prowl at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15 on the Luther Warren Peace Path, in partnership with City of Wilmington Park staff and volunteers.

For the past several years, night hikes have been lead by Kneisel and those attending have had the good fortune of calling in barred owls in our “back yard.”

The event is free and open to the public, and the trail is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The meeting spot that evening will be the lower parking lot of Clinton Memorial Hospital, near the trail connector.

Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight and your sense of adventure. For more information contact Lori Williams at the Park Office at 937-382-4781.