Seeing a raptor close-up? How could I resist? Last Wednesday, I went to the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia to a “Migrating Raptors Identification” workshop.
Raptor Wanted: Alive or Dead
It was the one of the coolest workshops I had ever attended. Not only did we get to see live raptors close up but also dead ones. Hawks, Falcons and Vultures who had slammed in to windows or hit by cars, We studied by the workshop participants. We treated the deceased birds with the utmost respect.
Before we saw the live birds, we were able to examine the wings, feet, markings and size of the dead birds. It gave me an understanding of the field marks that I see on the live birds.
Photo Galleries
Below are some of the photos I took of the birds, some dead, some alive. I didn’t include anything too gruesome. Okay, one foot of a Red-tailed Hawk is a bit icky, but the photo was too educational to leave out. But, we can learn so much by just looking.
And Some Live Birds
Looking Up Close
Most of the time I see these birds from a great distance. Usually I’m on the ground watching a large silhouette in the sky. I particularly liked seeing the Red-tailed Hawk. There are many circling in the sky in the Philadelphia area.
If you ever get a chance to attend a workshop like this, take it. It’s is a rare but highly educational experience.
More Information on Birds of Prey
Bird of Prey Facts – What Makes a Raptor, a Raptor?
Fall Raptor Migration: What You Need to Know (with video)