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CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Join an adventure at the top of the Knob Lick Towersite, just south of Farmington, with the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Naturalists with the Nature Center say to expect a scenic sight as hawks and other raptors migrate through the area.
“Thousands of birds are migrating south through this area, and some of those are raptors,” said Cape Girardeau Nature Center Assistant Manager Steven Juhlin.
Juhlin added that about two thirds of birds found in Missouri are considered neotropical migrants, meaning they spend their winters in Mexico, Central America, and South America.
“Some of the raptors we hope to see have a long flight still ahead of them,” Juhlin said. “We'll be watching for hawks, falcons, vultures, and osprey.”
After a cool morning, the hot air rises and the robust birds catch a free ride as they soar. This makes mid-morning the best time to view the unique sight. Experts will cover bird identification and migration details throughout the event.
Juhlin said the group will carpool from the Nature Center to the tower site at 7 a.m. and be back at 1 p.m. Binoculars will be provided, but viewers are welcome to bring their own. Juhlin advises guests to dress for the weather and bring a snack and drink.
No registration is required and visitors age eight and up are welcome to attend. For more information about this event, email sebirding@yahoo.com or contact the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center at 573-290-5218.
To find more outdoor opportunities with the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center text the word “nature” to 91212, or go online to mdc.mo.gov.
