By Wolf Ridge Naturalist
Sharp-shinned hawks and broad-winged hawks have started their migration over Wolf Ridge! Several were documented near the observation deck behind the science center. A notable difference between the two is the flight behavior. A sharp-shinned hawk will flap much more than the broad-winged hawk, who glides smoothly through the air.
These hawks are part of a much larger fall migration wherein all sorts of raptors begin migrating down south for the winter. Their migrant paths are determined by large lakes (LAKE SUPERIOR!!), oceans, and mountain ranges because they are reluctant to fly over large bodies of water. Be on the lookout for more raptors passing through, especially during periods of high, northwest winds!