Migratory hawk watch slated

BRIDGTON — Join Loon Echo Land Trust on Saturday, September 8, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for a migratory hawk watch on Hacker’s Hill in Casco. This field day will be lead by expert birder Dick Anderson, former Executive Director of Maine Audubon Society (1969-1977).

Dick has conducted several hawk migration watches and was especially pleased with the Hacker’s Hill site for such an event. At the fall hawk watch last September more than 150 birds were sighted, including broad-winged hawks, cooper’s hawk, sharp-shinned hawks, red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, bald eagles and osprey.

In this region this time of year, peak hours for spotting migrating hawks and eagles occur between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.; experts will be on hand during the hours of 9 a.m.-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 is required. The only equipment needed are binoculars, a comfortable chair, water and a snack.

Rain date will be Sunday, September 9. Every year’s migrating patterns are different; the seasonal and daily weather patterns will dictate how many birds may be flying over head.

Hacker’s Hill is located off of Quaker Ridge Road in Casco, accessible by Route 11 (approximately one mile away) or Route 302 (approximately four miles away). A steep, paved road leads from Quaker Ridge Road to the top of the hill where parking is available.

To learn more about Hacker's Hill and the ongoing fundraising efforts to raise the remaining $150,000 or other Loon Echo land protection projects, programs or events please visit www.loonecholandtrust.org or call 647-4352.