Our coordinated annual migration survey began in 1995 across multiple watch sites before permanently moving to the Center in 2013. At that time, the survey expanded its scope to include both novel methods as well as cutting-edge use of modified marine radar to detect migrating raptors. The Center is currently the only known site in North America to routinely use radar to assist in an annual raptor migration survey. The survey was conducted by volunteer staff until 2019 when the Center began hiring avian professionals and researchers to staff the observation platform to ensure consistency and accuracy in the count numbers.
The migration survey runs from September 1st through November 30th of each year. This year’s survey will mark the use of the newly renovated Hightower Construction Observation Platform, made possible through the generous donation of materials and labor by Hightower Construction Co.
Survey data gathered is reported to the Hawk Migration Association of North America and is utilized in the Raptor Population Index as well as providing valuable data to independent researchers and ornithologists to understand and share trends and conservation status of migratory raptors across both regionally and continent-wide. Our migration survey leader this fall is Emma Hovland. Emma is from Bolingbrook, IL and earned her BS in Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology from Colorado State University. Emma’s favorite bird of prey is the American Kestrel.
