CASCO — Join Loon Echo Land Trust from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, for a migratory hawk count on Hacker’s Hill. This field day will be led by expert birder Dick Anderson, former executive director of Maine Audubon Society.
Anderson has conducted several hawk migration watches and was especially pleased with the Hacker’s Hill site for such an event. At last year’s fall hawk watch, over 150 birds were sighted including broad-winged hawks, Cooper’s hawk, sharp-shinned hawks, red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, bald eagles and osprey. There will be mounted hawks on hand for participants to get a closer look at these magnificent creatures normally seen soaring through the skies.
Peak hours for spotting migrating hawks and eagles in the lakes region this time of year occur between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., and experts will be on hand until 1 p.m. for assistance and questions.
Participants are welcome to join for an hour or two or for the duration of the program.
Participation is open to all and no registration or fee is required. The only equipment needed are binoculars, a comfortable chair, water and snacks.
Every year’s migrating patterns are different; the seasonal and daily weather patterns will dictate how many birds may be flying over head. Best conditions are clear with northwest winds.
Hacker’s Hill is off Quaker Ridge Road in Casco. A steep, paved road leads from Quaker Ridge Road to the top of the hill where parking is available. Hacker’s Hill is accessible to all ages and abilities.
To learn more about Hacker’s Hill or other Loon Echo land protection projects, programs or events, contact Jon Evans, stewardship manager, at jon@lelt.org.
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