Migratory raptors take the spotlight at upcoming WANE course

Eagle Mountain residents will have an opportunity to learn more about the impressive birds of prey that call Cedar Valley home during the next Wildlife and Nature Education Course, scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. at Eagle Mountain City Hall.

The evening’s presentation will feature Chelsea Welch with the Eagle Mountain Nature and Wildlife Alliance, who will focus on the migration patterns and behaviors of raptors, including the Swainson’s Hawk.

According to Eagle Mountain City Wildlife Biologist Todd Black, the Cedar Valley area presents a rare ecological mix for raptor migration and residency.

“We have a unique situation here in much of Utah where we have a bird that summers here but winters in Argentina,” Black said, referring to the Swainson’s Hawk. “Then we get a bird from the Arctic Circle that winters here. This is neat from an ecological standpoint.”

These raptors are referred to as Buteos—a term for a group of broad-winged hawks that includes species like the Red-tailed Hawk.

Swainson’s Hawks and Red-tailed Hawks often nest in the area, with sightings most common toward the western edge of town where open space and sagebrush habitat remain.

“These birds are more abundant as you get out near the open areas,” Black said. “A good place to look for them is on top of our powerline poles. From my experience, there are also several bald eagles that winter here.”

Raptors play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, helping to regulate populations of rodents and other small animals. Understanding their migration patterns offers insight into both local and global environmental health.

The upcoming course is designed to be accessible for all ages, whether attendees are seasoned birdwatchers or simply curious about local wildlife.

Black recommends binoculars for anyone interested in spotting raptors in their spare time.

“Just like anything else, if you have a good pair of binoculars, they’re relatively easy to spot and identify,” he said.

The Wildlife and Nature Education Course is part of an ongoing series hosted by the City and the Eagle Mountain Nature and Wildlife Alliance, aimed at deepening residents’ connection to the natural world around them.

“This valley offers incredible opportunities to see wildlife that many people never realize is right here in their own backyard,” Black said. “We want people to appreciate it and learn how to protect it.”

The event is free and open to the public.

Event Details:
What: Wildlife and Nature Education Course – Migrating Raptors of Cedar Valley
When: Wednesday, Aug. 20, 7 p.m.
Where: Eagle Mountain City Hall