Volunteers conduct raptor migration counts daily near the summit of Big Bald, weather permitting, from 1000 AM to 1800 PM from the first week in September to early November. Migrating raptors are identified to species and recorded by hour and direction of passage by experienced observers using binoculars and spotting scopes. Daily raptor migration flight count data are submitted to the Hawk Migration Association of North America and is available for public research and raptor population trend analysis (www.hmana.org). Access to Big Bald Mountain and Hawkwatch is possible via the Appalachian Trail and by vehicle on private roads by permission only. Hawkwatch volunteers are always welcome, please contact BRBO if interested.

View Big Bald data (2004-2020) at Hawkcount.org

Broad-winged Hawk

Student volunteers at Big Bald Hawkwatch

Hundreds of Broad-winged hawks over Big Bald