As raptors begin their incredible annual migration to wintering grounds, Squam Lakes
Natural Science Center will host its Raptor Migration Celebration on Saturday, September 19, from 10:00 am to
4:00 pm. The all-ages event will give visitors an opportunity to learn about raptor migration, observe live birds of
prey, and participate in a community science project tracking migrating hawks.
The event will feature three Birds of Prey presentations by the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) at
11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. VINS will introduce visitors to live raptor ambassadors and explore the
seasonal movements of birds of prey, including where raptor species travel for the winter, how long their
migrations take, and why they make these annual journeys. Each presentation will include a flight
demonstration featuring a raptor.
Visitors can also participate in a Hawk Watch, helping document migrating raptors as they pass through the
region. Participants will scan the skies for hawks and other birds of prey, recording their observations and
learning to identify different species. Kids’ activities will give budding ornithologists a fun, hands-on introduction
to raptor identification. Data collected during the Hawk Watch will be submitted to the Hawk Migration
Association’s North American raptor migration database, contributing to a broader understanding of raptor
populations and migration patterns and helping inform conservation efforts.
“Our annual Raptor Migration Celebration is a wonderful way to connect people of all ages with wildlife,
conservation, and the wondrous journeys raptors take every fall,” said Iain MacLeod, Executive Director of
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center. “We are thrilled to welcome our partners from VINS to share their
incredible raptor ambassadors and expertise with our community.”
The Raptor Migration Celebration is included with regular trail admission. No additional tickets are required, and
the event is open to all ages.
For the full event information, please visit us at nhnature.org.
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About Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
Founded in 1966, the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness, NH, is dedicated to advancing
understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world. The Center engages visitors through live
animal exhibits, lake cruises, interactive programs, and nature-based learning experiences that inspire
appreciation and stewardship of the environment. Located on Route 113 in Holderness, it’s an easy drive from
exit 24 off I-93. For more information, call 603-968-7194 or visit www.nhnature.org.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center  /  23 Science Center Rd.  /  Holderness NH