FERNDALE — The Lake County Parks & Trails Division is seeking a few experienced bird-watching volunteers to help conduct a fall bird survey at the Ferndale Preserve, located off County Road 455 in South Lake County, on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 7 to 10:30 a.m.

Experienced birders must be able to identify most common birds by sight and/or sound and have their own binoculars and field guides. Volunteers who can identify butterflies and dragonflies are also encouraged to participate.

Each season brings a different variety of bird population to the wildlife-rich preserve, which features shoreline along Lake Apopka, meadows, forests and wetlands. As Lake County park rangers rehabilitate the property, the bird counts should be an indicator of their progress.

The 192-acre Ferndale Preserve was purchased in 2005 with a partnership between the Lake County Board of County Commissioners, Lake County Water Authority, St. Johns River Water Management District and a Florida Communities Trust grant. Plans for the property include hiking and equestrian trails, a scenic overlook, a canoe launch and picnic pavilion.

Experienced bird watchers who wish to volunteer for this activity are encouraged to call the Lake County Department of Public Works, Parks & Trails Division, at (352) 742-0992.