Saturdays, May 11 and 18, are the final opportunities this spring to observe bird scientists in action and birds up close as they are banded at Audubon Community Nature Center. This photograph of flycatchers by Olean photographer Paul G. Beretta was a winner in an Audubon Nature Photography Contest.

Area residents still have two chances this spring to observe the process of banding birds to discover details about their behaviors.

Weather permitting, those interested can join ornithologists on the west side of Audubon Community Nature Center’s property any time from 7 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays, May 11 and 18.

Observe how bird scientists capture migrating and resident birds in “mist” nets – so-called because they are so fine they are almost like mist – fit them with identification bands, measure, weigh, and then release them.

Some of those watching might even be selected to help release a bird. Children are welcome to attend, but it’s requested dogs be left home.

If the weather is too harsh for the safety of the birds, the nets are not opened.

Those attending may want to bring bird guides and binoculars if they have them, and remember to dress for the weather. Plan to listen closely to the scientists and follow their instructions carefully, as safety of the birds is the priority.

Come to the picnic pavilion on the west side of the Audubon property at 1600 Riverside Road, just east of Route 62 between Jamestown and Warren. Look for a “Bird Banding” sign at the entrance closer to Route 62. Drive in and park on the grass along the edge of the trees. Or park at the Nature Center parking lot and walk the trail over to the banding site, especially if it has been raining.

Audubon offers these demonstrations to the public free of charge, but donations are greatly appreciated. No reservations are required.

To learn more or donate, click through Programs and Events at AudubonCNC.org.

Audubon Community Nature Center is located at 1600 Riverside Road, one-quarter mile east of Route 62 between Jamestown and Warren. Visit the nearly 600-acre nature preserve, check in on the live birds of prey, and hike the more than five miles of trails dawn until dusk daily for free.

The three-story Nature Center building houses interactive displays, a collection of live animals including the Hellbender exhibit, and the Blue Heron Gift Shop. Visitors are welcome Mondays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sundays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Nature Center members and SNAP/EBT cardholders have free building admission daily. Building admission is also free every Sunday for non-Nature Center members.

To learn more about Audubon and its programs, call 716-569-2345, find Audubon Community Nature Center on Facebook, or visit AudubonCNC.org.