Everyone loves the beauty, mystery and charm of owls, but science continues to unlock the secrets of their biology and ecology.

Join Scott Weidensaul at 11:30 a.m. on November 28 at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Berks County for his talk "Owls: Souls of the Night," and discover the strange and mysterious world of these hunters of the night.

The special appearance is part of the Sanctuary’s annual Holiday on the Mountain winter open house and is free and open to the public. A trail fee applies to non-members who wish to hike.

A long-time Hawk Mountain board member, Weidensaul is an internationally renowned naturalist and author of more than two dozen titles including his new release, the Peterson Reference Guide to Owls of North America and the Caribbean.

During his presentation, he will share photos, stories, and personal anecdotes that highlight the latest scientific discoveries ranging from the bizarre tropical species such as the stygian owl to the common and widespread owls in our own backyards.

Following the program, Weidensaul will be available for a book signing and to chat with visitors.

In keeping with the owl theme, Hawk Mountain also will offer Kids Crafts from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., providing the supplies and instruction for youngsters to create take-home "Owl Art". A live raptor program, “Owls of the Winter Woods,” will be held at 2 p.m. and featuring two live owl species.

The annual Mountain Raffle drawing takes place at 3 p.m. with a top prize of Swarovski 8.5x42 EL binoculars. From 11 to 3 p.m., the Sanctuary will provide complimentary hot drinks and a display of wildlife art by David Hughes and wildlife photography by Alejandra Lewandowski.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is located just 2 miles north of I-78/Cabela’s intersection and is known world-wide as the first refuge for birds of prey. Its 2,500 acres is open to the public by membership or modest fee for wildlife watching, hiking, enjoying scenic overlooks, or watching the annual raptor migration which continues daily through December 15.

All proceeds support Hawk Mountain’s local to global raptor conservation science and education programs.

For more information, visit the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary website or call 610-756-6961.

NewsClips:

Northern Finch Irruption Likely

Pennsylvania Is Winter Oasis For Golden-Crowned Kinglet

Trout Eggs Planted In Eagle Scout Incubator

EPCAMR Video: Trout In The Classroom

Super-Sized Squirrel To Be Removed From Endangered List

PA Mammal Atlas Moves Into High Gear With Volunteers

Shotgun Deer Hunt Set For Dec. 2 At Tyler State Park

Op-Ed: Control Deer Populations With Natural Predators

11/23/2015