Migration Magic: Enjoying Neotropical Migrant Birds on the Move
September 12, 2026 · 12:00 AM · Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd, Kempton · Ages 18+
About the event
Hawk Mountain sits along one of the migration corridors that neotropical songbirds and raptors follow from North America toward South America each fall, and this two-day workshop turns that movement into a hands-on lesson. Dr. Terry Master, a retired professor from East Stroudsburg University, leads an introduction to these birds, how to identify them, and how migration behavior shapes what you see overhead.
The format pairs preparation with time outdoors. Registrants receive a pre-recorded Zoom lecture the week before, then join the group in the field to explore a range of habitats on and around the mountain in search of migrating songbirds and raptors. A brief look at trapping and banding songbirds is part of the weekend as well. Binoculars can be provided, and every participant receives a course manual and a certificate of completion.
The workshop is geared toward novice and intermediate birdwatchers, and no prior experience is needed beyond the ability and gear to hike rocky trails. It is offered through Hawk Mountain's Appalachian Ecology Institute series of field-oriented courses for amateur and professional naturalists, and the sessions are Act 48 eligible. Questions about overnight accommodations or on-site camping can go to sanctuary staff.
