HawkWatch with David Simpson

The Raptor Population Index, which tracks hawk migration counts across North America, recently shared some mixed news. Bald Eagles and vultures are doing better, but Sharp-shinned Hawks and Northern Harriers are declining. Raptors are top predators that help keep ecosystems in balance, so those drops are worth paying attention to. That's why hawk watches matter. Volunteers count migrating raptors at key sites every fall, and that data helps scientists track population trends and guide conservation. You can be part of it. Join us for our annual Hawkwatch at John D. MacArthur Beach State Park on Friday, October 3. Meet David Simpson at the boardwalk at 8:30 AM. He'll start with a short lesson on where to look, how to tell hawks apart by shape and flight style, and which species we're hoping to see, both Florida residents and migrants passing through. After that, we'll head out and count birds together as citizen scientists for the day. Everyone is welcome, from experienced birders to first-timers of any age. It's a drop-in event, so come and go as you like. It can get hot out there, so bring water and snacks. About John D. MacArthur Beach State Park Tucked along a barrier island in North Palm Beach, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park protects one of the last undeveloped stretches of coastline in southeast Florida — a mix of coastal and tropical hammock, mangrove forest, and a tidal lagoon that together provide habitat for several rare and endangered native plant species. A long boardwalk crosses the lagoon from the nature center to the beach, giving visitors a rare vantage point over both the maritime hammock and the open dune line. That dune line is exactly what makes the park a great HawkWatch location. Each September and October, migrating raptors follow the coast south, riding the wind along the beach and dunes as they head toward Central and South America. On a good morning, watchers here can expect to see Ospreys, Sharp-shinned Hawks, Cooper's Hawks, and Broad-winged Hawks moving through, along with fast-flying falcons like the American Kestrel, Merlin, and Peregrine Falcon. Northern Harriers and, less commonly, Bald Eagles round out the mix. Species and numbers vary from day to day and depend heavily on wind direction, so every HawkWatch morning offers something a little different. Important Information ● Meeting Location: Boardwalk, middle benches ● Registration Required: Recommended but walk-ins are welcome! This is a relaxed event. ● Address: 10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North Palm Beach, FL 33408 ● Entry / Parking Fee: $5 standard parking fee per car (up to 8 occupants) $4 if one occupant only. ● Consider the Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass: $60 individual / $120 family (up to 8 people), valid for unlimited access to all state parks for a year. Available at park gates or online. ● Space is limited — please cancel your registration if you can't attend so someone on the waitlist can join. ● No drones, glass containers, alcohol, or littering. Terrain and Accessibility ● ADA-compliant electric tram available to the beach. ● Accessible picnic areas, nature center, and boardwalks. ● Sandy trails may be challenging for some wheelchair users. ● Restrooms: Available on-site. ● Parking: Plenty of spaces available. What to Bring ● Water (refill station available) ● Snacks and/or lunch ● Binoculars ● Camera ● Spotting scope ● Sunscreen ● Insect repellent ● Wide-brimmed hat Photography and Media Notice By registering, you agree to allow us to share photos from the event on Audubon Everglades' social media pages. Prefer not to be photographed? Just let us know ahead of time. We love seeing your nature pics — tag us on Instagram and Facebook! We love seeing your nature pics! Tag us on Instagram and Facebook Questions or accommodation requests? Reach out at [email protected] Learn more about your trip leader: David has spent a lifetime in the outdoors of Florida. His first passion is birds, but his interest also lies in frogs, snakes, plants, ecosystems, history (both natural and cultural), and many other areas. He worked for the Florida Park Service for over 12 years in parks like St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, and Kissimmee River Preserve State Park where he learned much about habitat restoration and management. He runs Birding with David Simpson with his wife, Dee. They provide customized birding tours, classes, and consulting services. He often leads trips with Audubon societies and other similar organizations. He is currently the field trip coordinator for Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. You can find out more about is adventures, including our upcoming trip to Guatemala with Holbrook. Travel on his website: www.BirdingwithDavidSimpson.com