The Great Horned Owl will be among several creatures that greet visitors and share stories along the trails at Audubon Community Nature Center’s Enchanted Forest. Reservations are being accepted now.

Reservations can now be made for Enchanted Forest, Audubon Community Nature Center’s non-scary Halloween event.

With fewer openings this year because of COVID-19 restrictions, it is expected to sell out even earlier than usual.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, Oct. 9 and 10, animals have the ability to speak human language and communicate with visitors. After starting at a backyard campfire, volunteer “fireflies” light the way with lanterns along a luminary-lit trail where families will meet talking animals that engage their imagination, maybe make them laugh and teach something about wildlife in the region.

Reservations for this guided walk are required. Walks start at 6 p.m. and go out every 15 minutes. The last walk starts at 8 p.m. Sunset is 6:45 p.m. Prepayment is required and reserves a specific time.

Enchanted Forest happens rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather. For protection from biting insects like mosquitoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, closed-toe shoes, and insect repellent are recommended. Halloween costumes are welcome.

ACNC requires a face covering when physical distance can’t be maintained, so plan to have one available and to wear it on the trail.

For the safety of participants and volunteers, there will be no indoor portion of the event this year. However, craft bags (including materials and instructions) will be available to take home.

Space is limited. There are no ticket sales at the door and no refunds.

The fee is $12, $9 for Nature Center members, $6 for children ages 3-15, and free for children 2 and under.

For an additional $3, those attending can also get a Fun Patch, perfect for scouts or others looking for a way to learn and experience the event.

For reservations, call 569-2345 during business hours or visit AudubonCNC.org/EnchantedForest.

Enchanted Forest is presented through the efforts of volunteers, some of whom are registered with RSVP, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. To learn how to volunteer, visit AudubonCNC.org/Volunteer.

Sponsors include Bob and Kathy Frucella, Carnahan-Jackson Foundation, Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Holmberg Foundation, Hultquist Foundation, Jessie Smith Darrah Fund, Lenna Foundation, Ralph C. Sheldon Foundation, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Whirley-DrinkWorks!, The Boocha Family, Bush Industries, Inc., Chautauqua Lake and Watershed Management Alliance, Inc., Hal and Mary Comarro, Metallic Ladder Manufacturing Corporation and Univera Healthcare.

Audubon may change the event to accommodate any changes in COVID-19 compliance or safety recommendations. Those who are feeling ill, have any symptoms of COVID-19 or have come into contact with a probable or confirmed COVID-19 case are asked to stay home.

Audubon Community Nature Center is located at 1600 Riverside Road, one-quarter mile east of Route 62 between Jamestown and Warren.