Thousands of hawks are on the move in Marin, some coming, some going, some just looking around for food: punctuating the skies with their lazy circles, soaring above commuters on Highway 101, or powering southward across the Golden Gate. Hawk Hill is one of the best places to view them, and on September and October weekends there’s an added bonus — Hawk Talks — at which a volunteer from the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory talks about hawk identification and behavior. There’s no need to RSVP — just show up on Hawk Hill around 11:30 a.m. Hawk Talks are from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting (heavy fog or rain cancels). You’ll find out which species makes that lonesome keeer-keeer call, when the red-tailed hawk gets its red tail (they aren’t born that way) and why the peregrine falcon needs to be so fast. Your favorite part of the presentation is sure to be a look at a hawk that was banded earlier in the day. You’ll see the fierce beak, sharp talons, and beautiful feathers up close, then witness the hawk flying away as it is released to continue its journey. Be sure to wear sunscreen and dress in layers. Bring your own food and drink (nothing alcoholic), binoculars and perhaps a field guide. Dogs on leash are allowed. ggro.org
