Please join SCDNR Staff at the Edisto Environmental Learning Center for our 2026 Hawk Watch training! This will include an overview of the Hawk Watch program, an intro into Galaxy Digital (the new SCDNR Volunteer software), Hawk ID, and, of course, birding!
Not required but encouraged: please bring your cellphone or a laptop/iPad to go over the new volunteer software.
We will do a little birding before and after the training, feel free to bring your binoculars!
Information about Hawk Watch Program:
From September to November, migrating raptors pass through coastal South Carolina along the Atlantic Flyway on their journey south for the winter. Species include Red-tailed Hawk, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Turkey Vulture, Peregrine Falcon, Northern Harrier, and more. Volunteers who participate in the Hawk Watch program collect migrating raptor numbers throughout these three months at Botany Bay Plantation HP/WMA and the Edisto Beach State Park in collaboration with the Hawk Migration Association. This data is submitted to Hawk Count to better understand raptor migration!
Hawk Watch shifts are daily starting September 1-November 30 from 10AM-1PM and 1PM-2PM on regular volunteer days, then 10AM-2PM on archery hunting days. Volunteer opportunities take place at Botany Bay (BB) and the Edisto Beach State Park (SP).
Volunteer requirements include:
-Sign the SCDNR Regular Service Volunteer Agreement form annually
-Participate in Hawk Watch volunteer training
-Participate in at least one Hawk Watch shift
-Submit a volunteer timesheet within one week of volunteering
If you can't attend this training, but still interested in participating in Hawk Watch, email Brianna Goodwin at GoodwinB@dnr.sc.gov
Having trouble signing up? Visit our FAQ page here
