Autumn Lecture Series 2025
Lectures take place in the Visitor Center Gallery at 5 PM unless noted otherwise. FREE to all. No registration required.
The Falkland Islands: Penguin Adventure
Saturday, October 4
5:30 PM
Join Shawn Carey, the past president and current vice president of Eastern Mass Hawk Watch, to learn about an unforgettable adventure to the remote Falkland Islands, home to spectacular wildlife including multiple species of penguins, black-browed albatross, and massive southern elephant seals. This program will guide you through the best wildlife hotspots, insider travel trips, and stunning photography opportunities to help you plan your own ultimate Falklands expedition.
The Courage of Birds: How Our Birds Survive the Winter
Saturday, October 11
Pete Dunne, winner of the American Birding Associations Roger Tory Peterson Award for Lifetime Achievement in promoting the cause of birding, will discuss his new book The Courage of Birds. He expertly explores widespread adaptations, such as feathers that protect against the cold, and unpacks the unique migration patterns and survival strategies of individual species. Dunne also addresses the impact of changing climactic conditions on avian longevity and recounts personal anecdotes that soar with a naturalist's gimlet eye. Book signing to follow.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary: The Past, Present, and Future of Global Raptor Conservation
Saturday, October 18
Sean Grace is president of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, the organization that founded the science of migration ecology and is well known for the longest-running annual raptor count in the world, tracking sixteen species of raptors along the Kittatinny Ridge since 1934. Today Hawk Mountain continues innovative work to protect birds of prey through scientific monitoring, research, public education and engagement, and professional conservation training. Join us and learn how one organization has made such a powerful impact on global raptor conservation and plans to continue to do so.
Conservation and Landscape Fragmentation: The View from Hawk Mountain and Southeastern PA
Saturday, October 25
Landscape fragmentation and human impacts are increasing challenges for the persistence of wildlife. Hawk Mountain serves a critical role as a large and relatively healthy forest ecosystem surrounded by a landscape fragmented by agriculture and development. Join Dan Ardia, Professor of Biology at Franklin & Marshall College as he discusses the broader and local impacts of forest fragmentation on wildlife. A summary of research conducted at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary and across southeastern Pennsylvania on forest wildlife will be provided including videos and images of elusive mammals at Hawk Mountain, such as bobcat, black bear, and fisher.
Wildlife Rehabilitation: What We Do and Why
Saturday, November 15
This presentation by Red Creek Wildlife Center Public Program Director Lylee Leonard will cover the basics of wildlife rehabilitation, provide more information about Red Creek Wildlife Center, and dive into some patient stories. Learn more about the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts, and get to meet several live animals!