MADRID, Iowa—This Sunday, October 3rd, the annual High Trestle Trail (HTT) Hawk Watch will be conducted at the west end of the High Trestle Trail Bridge.  Location is in southern Boone County, between the towns of Madrid and Woodward.

This is the time of the year when the birds begin their migration south and the Des Moines River Valley is a well traveled route. Viewing the migration from the High Trestle Trail Bridge continues to be very popular.

A volunteer raptor counting team will conduct the Hawk Watch from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Visitors are welcome to stop and view some southbound raptors, with help from the team in spotting and identifying the migrants.  Bring your own binoculars, just as a precaution to safeguard yourself and everyone from any chance of contracting Covid-19.

In addition to the High Trestle Trail Hawk Watch, the Boone County Supervisors and County Conservation Board and staff will be presented with a Bird Friendly Boone County award.  Boone County is the 7th county in Iowa to receive this special recognition for bird conservation.  The short award ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m., next to the Hawk Watch location, and the public is invited to attend.

(contributed press release)