Saturday, October 11, 2025
9:00 am – Leave Santa Fe; 11:15 am – 4:00 pm at Hawk Watch
Leader: Rick Rockman rockmanrjr@gmail.com
This full-day field trip’s destination is at a high-altitude lookout on Capilla Peak, elevation of 9,379 feet in the Manzano Mountains. The 12-mile road from the town of Manzano to the summit is gravel and is usually in good condition. Approximately half a mile of moderate to steep hiking will bring us to the rocky HawkWatch site, a raptor watching and banding station. The primary objective of HawkWatch is to track long-term population trends of diurnal raptors throughout North America, primarily in western states. The lookout site may offer up to 18 kinds of raptors during fall migration.
This field trip will last until 4 pm at the HawkWatch site, so bring a sturdy pair of shoes or boots, a raincoat and hat, water, lunch or snacks, sun protection and a pair of binoculars. Weather conditions can change quickly, so bring layers of clothing. You might also consider bringing a soft cushion to sit on, as the Capilla Peak lookout is situated on a shadeless rocky ledge.
This trip is appropriate for all levels of birders, especially those interested in raptors.
Meet at parking lot next to Pecos Trail Café in Santa Fe at 9:00 am in order to arrange carpooling to HawkWatch, approximately 2 ¼ hours away. Please park on Calle Espejo, off Old Pecos Trail. This trip is limited to 10 participants. Contact Rick Rockman at rockmanrjr@gmail.com or (505) 660-9972 to reserve your spot.