A backdrop of colorful autumn foliage awaits the continuing raptor migration through Hawk Mountain in Southeastern Pennsylvania. October is the month when the widest variety of birds of prey soar the thermals of the famous flyway on their fall migration south. The birds may fly astonishingly close to the lookout points on Kittatinny Ridge for a commanding view of nature.
In 1934 Hawk Mountain Sanctuary was established to protect the raptors as they flew through the area on their migration from Canada to as far away as South America. Prior to 1934, thousands of hawks were shot as sport by hunters each year as the birds made their way past the mountain.
Today the sanctuary, known as the first of such refuges in the world, monitors the number and varieties of raptors passing through. The on-site records consist of daily, monthly, seasonal and yearly counts.
On any given day you may observe the flight of some 16 different varieties of birds of prey. Already more than 12,000 Broadwing Hawks have been counted for the fall 2002 season. Raptors as large as Golden and Bald Eagles and as small as Kestrels pass through the area. Osprey, an occasional Goshawk and maybe a Rough-legged Hawk may add to the official count.
A visitors center and unique gift shop are located close to South lookout. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a non-profit organization and does charge a fee to access the popular lookout points. Weekends can prove to be very crowded.
Nature programs are held on the weekends from April through November. Most of the programs are free. This month, learn to identify trees and shrubs at "The Fall Forest," or find out the scoop on "Sorting Out Pennsylvania's Chickadees." October 18th through the 20th is an art show hosting nature art from 50 national, regional and local artist. There is a fee for admittance to the art show.
For those people who would prefer the more rustic less organized attraction of watching the birds of prey, spectacular views of gliding raptors can be seen elsewhere at Hawk Mountain. Several areas that do not charge a fee are located close by. Don't forget your binoculars.
Even if you are not an avid bird watcher, a visit to the mountain will not leave you empty. Something incredible happens to our being when we slow down enough to take time and observe nature.
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