Raptor Road Trip

Raptor Road Trip - Ann Takamoto

Explore Sauvie Island in search of magnificent bald eagles, hawks and falcons that spend the winter on the island. On this special day devoted to raptors, experienced naturalists and hawk experts host activities and answer your questions at four locations around the island. Enjoy guided bird viewing, meet live raptors up close and sharpen your hawk identification skills. Hot drinks and donuts are available in the morning to keep you warm while you breakfast with the birds.

How does the road trip work?

Begin at Kruger’s Farm Market and pick up your event map and raptor identification guide. The event fee is $10 per vehicle, cash only, and includes a Sauvie Island Wildlife Area parking permit.  No registration needed.

To reach Kruger’s, take the Sauvie Island Bridge and continue straight 1.5 miles (past Howell Territorial Park) to the farm entrance on your right. Carpooling is encouraged. Spotting scopes and a crash course in raptor identification are provided, and naturalists will be on hand to point out the birds. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them, and dress for the weather. This event takes place rain or shine. The road trip is suitable for birders of all skill levels and families are welcome.

While you don’t have to be an “early bird” and get up at the crack of dawn to see these birds of prey, you should allow approximately three hours to visit all four locations.

What will you see?

It all depends on what nature has in store. Frequently sighted raptors include bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels and Northern harriers. With a little luck you might spot a rough-legged hawk, Cooper’s hawk, merlin or peregrine falcon. Beautiful snow geese, sandhill cranes and great blue herons are commonly seen at this time of year.

Sponsored by Metro, Audubon Society of Portland, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and HawkWatch International.