Hawk Watch returns on Saturdays

Wildlife Research Institute is hosting Hawk Watch, a free event that introduces visitors of all ages to resident raptors, every Saturday in January and February.

The first Hawk Watch of 2016 was held on Jan. 2. Others will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Begent Ranch, 18528 Highland Valley Road, rain or shine, on Jan. 9, 23 and 30, and Feb. 6, 13, 20 and 27.

The institute recommends visitors arrive by 9:30 a.m. and bring cameras and binoculars. Scopes will be available for participants to use to see raptors in the wild up close.

The organization’s biologists and volunteers say they will have hot coffee brewing, along with doughnuts and other refreshments.

According to the institute, 19 species of raptors have been recorded in the area.

“You will learn the life histories of these hawks, owls, and eagles and their relationship within the Ramona Grassland ecosystem,” states an event flier.

For more information, see wildlife-research.org.