Owls, hawks and falcons are coming back to Audubon. These avian hunters with long sharp talons, hooked beaks, and highly developed eyesight are headed to Bristol in September for the always popular “Raptor Weekend.”

The night before, Friday, Sept. 6, Audubon hosts another popular event, “Birds and Brews,” which sold out last year. Audubon partners with Proclamation Ale Co. for a night of live music and live owl and hawk ambassadors. Guests can sip cold brews, enjoy some snacks, and learn about these birds of prey. Tickets, which go on sale today (July 24), must be purchased online in advance at asri.org/raptor-weekend.

Over the weekend of Sept. 7 and 9, numerous raptor species will be featured in live presentations, educational programs, and activities for bird enthusiasts of all ages. In addition to owl and hawk presentations by Audubon experts, wildlife rehabilitators from across the Northeast will bring their expertise with birds of prey to the event.

There will also be live-flight programs. Master falconer Gregory Wojtera has worked with more than 55 raptors during the past 14 years and has been a full-time falconer and educator since 2016. He will be presenting a number of hawks in live-flight programs on both Saturday and Sunday.

Connecticut-based raptor rehabilitator Mary-Beth Kaeser of Horizon Wings will return this year on Saturday, Sept. 7. She will be presenting an American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Red-shouldered Hawk and more.

Also on Saturday, wildlife rehabilitator and Connecticut falconer Christine Peyreigne of Wilton, Conn. presents her popular raptor program with hawks and owls.

On Sunday, the ever-popular Marcia and Mark Wilson of Eyes on Owls will introduce the audience to a wide variety of live owls, some native to New England and other species that are found across the globe. The Wilsons will also explore the protection of owls and their habitats.

Engaging games and activities for families will be featured both days. Admission also provides access to the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium and the 28-acre wildlife refuge, including aquarium exhibits, a scenic boardwalk to Narragansett Bay, and the Palmieri Pollinator Garden. 

For more information on Raptor Weekend, visit asri.org/raptor-weekend.