Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory, Bird observatory in Monroe County, US
The Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory is a bird observation tower located atop Peters Mountain at approximately 3,800 feet (1,160 m) elevation in Monroe County. The facility provides multiple observation points for monitoring the migration patterns of raptors moving through the area.
The structure was originally built as a fire observation tower in 1956 and decommissioned in 1972. It was later converted into a raptor monitoring facility by the US Forest Service.
The observatory draws together birdwatchers and researchers who observe and document the movements of hawks, eagles, falcons, and other raptors migrating through the region. This gathering creates a community of people passionate about understanding how these birds navigate their long journeys.
Visitors should prepare for a one-mile uphill hike and bring appropriate footwear, plenty of water, and clothing suited to changing mountain weather. Physical fitness helps make the trek more comfortable.
The facility contributes data to Hawkcount.org and documents at least 15 different raptor species during peak migration season from August through November. This makes it part of a larger network tracking how these birds move across continents.
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