Hawkwatch excursions that give bird watchers a spectacular view of eagles, hawks and falons soaring through the sky are planned on five Saturdays - Aug. 26, Sept. 2, Sept. 16, Sept. 23 and Oct. 2, Tracy Aviary officials say.
Every fall the canyons east of Salt Lake City act as a point of departure for hundreds of birds of prey that spend hours soaring through the canyons before finding the right winds to help them fly to warmer climates in the south for winter.The excursions begin at Snowbird resort center with a slide show and lecture. Presentations include background information on the environment, behavior of the birds and ways of identifying different species.
Those making the trip then travel via the Snowbird tram to the top of Hidden Peak, where aviary education director Mark Stack-house will have spotting scopes set up to view the birds.
Groups are limited to 30 people, and reservations are necessary. Tickets are $15 for the public and $13 for Snowbird employees and Tracy Aviary members. Contact Pamela Davenport at the aviary, 596-8500, for more information.