Evening Owl Programs-Fall 2023

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is well known for its amazing views of migrating raptors and songbirds throughout the fall season. While visitors may be familiar with the research and education efforts conducted by Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory staff during daylight hours, most people are unaware that we continue working throughout the night!

Whoo doesn’t like owls? From large to small, seasonal travelers, and hardy residents, Minnesota hosts a fascinating diversity of owls, with some crazy habits, and responsible for some hauntingly beautiful sounds in the night. Join us to travel through a year of owls found in Minnesota, exploring their interesting life histories, and spotlighting some of the amazing things research has taught us about owls, and a bit about telling who’s whoo.

DATES: Saturday, September 30 and Saturday, October 21. Pre-registration is required.   

TIME: 8:00pm (arrive 10-15 minutes prior; duration 45-90 min).

LOCATION: Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve Education Program Area (NOTE: Please dress for the weather. If inclement weather, registrants will be notified about cancellation or alternative options).

COST:$10/member; $15/nonmember (limited tickets available) Tickets can be purchased by completing the form below. You may also purchase tickets at the Hawk Ridge merchandise trailer between 9am and 4pm starting in September OR call 218-428-6209.

Small Group Owl Programs (pre-registration required)

We also offer small group owl programs (up to 8 people) scheduled in advance. Depending on the night, this program will last roughly 1.5-2 hours and could involve watching the banding of owls captured, and their release back to the wild. Learn more about the owls found in this area, more about their natural history, research being done, as well as those migrating through. In small groups up to 8 in size, you can register for a slot on one of the scheduled program nights.

Cost is $40/member or $50/nonmember. A minimum of 4 registrants or minimum payment for 4 is required if less than 4 are registered. Hawk Ridge reserves the right to add additional registrants to fill the program to 8 as needed, unless a private group is willing to cover the full cost of 8 participants. This experience is dependent on weather and offered on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, Sept. 27 through Oct. 31. Contact Margie Menzies, mmenzies@hawkridge.org, to learn more and grab a slot for an opportunity not to be missed!