Witness the Grand Aerial Spectacle: Broad-Winged Hawk Migration 2025 in the Lehigh Valley

Prepare for an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon as the Broad-winged Hawks embark on their annual southward migration through the Lehigh Valley in September 2025. This spectacular aerial journey transforms the autumn skies into a living canvas, offering birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts a front-row seat to one of the most remarkable raptor movements on the continent.

Broad-winged Hawks, relatively small and stocky forest raptors, are known for their distinctive broad wings and short tails.

Adults typically display reddish-brown barring on their undersides and a prominent black and white band on their tails, while juveniles are streaked. But it's not just their appearance that captivates; it's their unique migratory strategy.

These incredible birds migrate in immense swirling formations known as “kettles.” As the sun warms the Earth, rising columns of air called thermals are created.

The Broad-winged Hawks expertly utilize these thermals, circling upwards on outstretched wings to gain significant altitude with minimal energy expenditure. Once at a high elevation, they glide gracefully in the general direction of their destination, often hundreds or thousands of feet above the ground, until they find the next thermal to repeat the process.

This energy-efficient method allows them to undertake epic journeys, sometimes covering thousands of miles from their breeding grounds in North America to their wintering grounds in Central and South America.

The peak of the Broad-winged Hawk migration in the Lehigh Valley typically occurs in mid-September.

During this crucial window, observers can witness thousands of these raptors passing overhead on a single day, especially after the passage of a cold front brings clear skies and favorable northwesterly winds. These conditions are perfect for creating the strong thermals the hawks rely upon.

For those eager to experience this breathtaking event in 2025, several prime locations in the Lehigh Valley offer unparalleled viewing opportunities.

Well-known hawk watches like Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Bake Oven Knob, and other elevated ridges provide excellent vantage points. These sites often have dedicated volunteers and staff who can help identify species and provide insights into the migration patterns, enhancing the educational aspect of your visit.

To make the most of your hawk-watching adventure, remember to bring binoculars, a field guide, and plenty of patience.

Dress in layers, as ridge top conditions can change quickly. Look for the distinct swirling patterns of the kettles against the vast expanse of the sky. It's an experience that connects you directly to the wild heart of nature, reminding us of the incredible resilience and beauty of the avian world.

Join us in September 2025 to celebrate and observe the majestic Broad-winged Hawks as they grace our skies.