Our second session of the new "Becoming a Better Birder" series continues with Raptors. We will meet at Mills River Park and spend time on Hooper Lane, King’s Bridge and other areas of open country in the floodplain of the French Broad River. Galen will point out and help you learn how to distinguish some of the birds of prey that winter in this area. We will also have binoculars should you require them - just let us know.

Some of the raptors could include the following: Bald Eagle, Black & Turkey Vultures, Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks, American Kestrel, Merlin & Peregrine Falcon, Northern Harrier, and Cooper’s & Sharp-shinned Hawks. Depending on the winter we could also see Short-eared Owl, although this is a rarity in our area.

The walking is mostly easy, although it may be wet and a little uneven. Bring appropriate footwear and winter clothing and be prepared for a pleasant winter walk.