Volunteers play a vital role in the success of citizen science programs. Several entities across the state are seeking hawkwatch volunteers. A hawkwatch is an organized effort to witness one of the most amazing spectacles in all of nature and collect standardized migration count data about diurnal raptors. If you have not participated in hawk watching before, and have an interest, NOW IS THE TIME to try it out! Do not fret about knowing all the species - this training will help get you comfortable, and there are plenty of resources to help. Learning new skills and contributing to migration research is the BEST WIN-WIN! This course will be taught by Kristina Wheeler and Dr. Sidney A. Gauthreaux. Kristina Wheeler is the Natural History Interpretation Specialist for the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. Kristina is also a co-instructor for the Charleston Master Naturalist course. She will offer an introduction to some of the common raptors of coastal South Carolina and provide tips on how to identify these birds in flight to help you expand your skills as a hawk-watcher. Dr. Sidney A. Gauthreaux is a pioneer in the use of radar to study bird movements in the atmosphere and has a particular interested in bird migration over the eastern United States. Over the past several decades, Dr. Gauthreaux's research efforts have yielded over 125 academic publications, and his career has yielded him many honors, among them being named fellow of several other societies including the American Ornithologists Union and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. For SC Master Naturalists this class counts as 3 hours of advanced training. For SC Master Naturalists who have not visited this site as part of your course, this class counts as 3 hours of advanced training towards SC Statewide Master Naturalist Certification in the Coastal Zone.

Fee: $30

Ages: 18 and up

Event Contact

sreynolds@ccprc.com

(843) 795-4386