Earth Day will have a decidedly feathery feel at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Kempton, Berks County, thanks to a full-day program by Baywings Falconry on April 26.

Educators from Baywings will exhibit up to five live raptors from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., visitors will have the extraordinary chance to see the winged predators show off during controlled flight demonstrations.  This program is free but trail fees apply to non-members who hike to scenic overlooks.

The falconers from Baywings are trained educators who will be on hand throughout the day to chat with visitors and share information about each species, the special adaptations of raptors, and the methods involved in training their birds. The informal exhibit will offer a chance for visitors to photograph each bird, and see them at close range.

“The educators at Baywings Falconry are great because they use their birds to captivate visitors and that leaves a ready audience who wants to learn more,” says Director of Education Erin Brown. “It’s a great strategy to share our conservation mission, to build interest in raptors, and it’s a guaranteed fun way for visitors to celebrate Earth Day,” she adds.

Celebrating 80 years in raptor conservation, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is the world's first refuge for birds of prey and an international center for raptor conservation. The 2,500-acre Sanctuary, 8-mile trail system and Visitor Center is open to the public year-round. A trail fee or membership dues supports local to global conservation programs, including public education, professional training and scientific research programs.

To learn more, visit the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary website or call 610-756-6961.

4/7/2014