Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a 2,600-acre natural area in southeastern Pennsylvania that is famous as the world's first refuge for birds of prey. Today, visitors flock to Hawk Mountain each autumn to watch the annual hawk migration. Between August 15 and December 15 an average 18,000 raptors fly past its ridgetops, often at eye-level. Scenic overlooks range from 1,300 to 1,500 feet in elevation offering spectacular views. Free programs feature live birds of prey and are held most Saturdays and Sundays, May through November. By mid-August the first bald eagle signals the beginning of the fall raptor migration, followed by ospreys, and American kestrels. Thousands of broad-winged hawks pass in mid September, and October brings as many as 16 species of raptors. A total of 235 species of birds have been sighted at or near this bird-watching mecca. Visitor Center with Mountain Bookstore, Wings of Wonder gallery, and gift shop is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.