Now is the time to dig out your binoculars and head up to Mt. Hood to experience the annual hawk migration. Every fall hundreds of thousands of birds take wing and migrate from their breeding grounds in North America down to warmer climates in South America. What does this mean for the Mt. Hood/Columbia Gorge region Each year from September through October Mt. Hood National Forest becomes a playground for thousands of hawks and other bird species.
The Bonney Butte Hawkwatch officially started on August 27th this year and runs through October 31st, just east of Government Camp. Every year visitors can see up to 2,500-4,500 hawks pass through the area including Sharp-shinned Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper's Hawks, Turkey Vultures, and Golden Eagles. Not only is there great hawk watching from Bonney Butte, but educational interpreters are also on site to answer your questions about migration ecology, raptor identification, and current research efforts. For example, did you know that hawks can see 8 times better than humans Or that some hawks have a wing-span of up to 55 inches
When and how to visit The site is open from 9am-5pm each day during the season. You can reach it following these directions.
Looking for a nearby place to stay overnight Check out the Bonney Meadows Campground or hotel accommodations in Government Camp.
Discover more attractions, events, activities, and places to stay by visiting Mt Hood Territory and the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce.
Photo credit: Instagrammer @herbiehecocks
