The event had terrific weather and a large crowd from allover Southern Ontario enjoyed all the myriad of events.
The Hawk Cliff Raptor Banders had four shows which had American Kestrels, Sharp-shinned hawks, Northern Harrier and a Red-tailed hawk. The talks explained the reason the raptors have been seen at Hawk Cliff by following the thermals west and not wanting to go over such a large body of water. The banders explained the different nets used and the country store assortment of cans for transporting the various sizes of birds. The banders are a group of dedicated volunteers with a few Raptor Bander widows from September to Christmas. This years presenters were Rose Braxton, Cyril Crocker and Al Hurst.
On Sunday there was a local boy scout troop that stayed and enjoyed all the presentations.One of their guide leaders had at least a metre long garter snake to show the troop. Really nice to see so many youngsters out enjoying nature.
The Canadian Raptor Conservancy of Canada did an amazing presentation each day. The speakers were very sincere about enjoying their jobs and it really enhanced the crowds enjoyment. They had American Kestrel, Harris Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl and the standout a 40 year old Golden Eagle named Sasquatch.
This event has been going on for many decades, yet the opportunity for Thames Talbot Land Trust to be able to purchase the land and keep it as a natural oasis, protected in perpetuity makes the venue totally unique. This is the second year on the newly acquired land. The open barn makes a great location for all the presentations, free from winds and rain. It is the people who sell their lands to the TTLT that make this happen. The trust is in talks to purchase Corner’s Corner and it will be awesome to be able to walk around this jewel of Central Elgin sometime next year.
Thanks to all the volunteers from the trust and our members for making this another successful weekend.
