If appreciating and enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife of Ramona is on your 2025 to-do list, Hawk Watch is one of the easiest ways to start.
“Hawk Watch is a celebration of San Diego county’s unique biodiversity,” said Leigh Bittner, managing director of Wildlife Research Institute, the nonprofit organization that puts on the event.
The institute’s mission includes public education about conservation and wildlife appreciation.
Known as a “raptor celebration,” Hawk Watch takes place at the Begent family ranch, at 18528 Highland Valley Road. The property overlooks the 5,000-acre Ramona Grasslands Nature Preserve that is under the stewardship of San Diego Parks and Recreation.
Nearly 20 species of both wintering and migrant raptors, or birds of prey, have been recorded at the Ramona grasslands, including golden and bald eagles, ferruginous, red-tail and red-shouldered hawks and prairie falcons, said Katie Quint, Wildlife Research Institute research director.
“We watch the grasslands come alive,” Quint said. “You never know who will show up, from wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts to the raptors and other animals.”
Once on site, visitors enter the institute’s pop-up shop before making their way to a scenic overview where the talk is held.
Biologists do a 1-1/2- to 2-hour talk, Quint said, describing the life histories of the birds and the significance of the Ramona grassland ecosystem on the raptors’ survival.
The discussion changes weekly, depending on what animals are seen, with plenty of time for questions — and interruptions.
“We interrupt the program for all birds, especially for migratory birds and raptors,” Quint said.
Professionals on hand point out raptors and other animals during the presentation, and visitors can use the provided spotting scopes to see for themselves.
On a good day, visitors can expect to see bald and golden eagles, red tail hawks and northern harriers, Quint said.
Visitors typically don’t have to settle for only far-off views of the birds. The raptors have been known to fly directly over the heads of the appreciative crowds.
The talk is stationary, and guests are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs and binoculars. Complimentary coffee and donuts are available.
Animal ambassadors on hand allow for close-up viewing of many of the raptor species.
“We have several falconers we work with, such as Charles Gilbrand, with San Diego Parks and Recreation, as well as Andrea Burgan, wildlife educator and founder of Critter Encounters in Ramona,” Quint said. “The animal ambassadors change every week.”
Burgan, who uses the animals at her sanctuary for educational programs, has been attending Hawk Watch for the past three years.
During her presentations, she walks around with an animal, often a hawk or owl, allowing everyone to see and photograph them.
“The opportunity to see native wildlife and raptors up close is pretty remarkable, and people love it,” she said.
She especially enjoys presenting with Quint.,
“We feed off each other, and it’s very fun for us and the audience,” she said.
Never knowing what they will see — “it’s a surprise every time” — is another of Burgan’s favorites things about the event.
She often stays after the program so more people can ask questions and learn about the animals, she said.
Between 200 and 400 people typically show up for the weekly programs, which begin promptly at 10 a.m. Visitors are advised to arrive by 9:30 a.m. so they “don’t miss anything,” Quint said.
The event is typically fully outdoors and held rain or shine.
Presenters such as Stacey Mae Rudge, founder of Ramona Barn Owls, are also available to meet with the public.
Rudge not only promotes Poison Free California, but educates the public on the benefits of having owls and other raptors on their properties, and on sustainable practices such as organic gardening and habitat restoration.
“We have displays on various ways to control pests that don’t involve using poison, such as putting up a barn owl box,” she said.
Rudge will have an example of a designer owl box on hand, as well as stickers, “which the kids just love,” she said.
The event offers activities for children and families, such as being able to climb inside an actual-size eagle nest on the property.
“It’s education that is fun, entertaining and free,” said Rudge.
Wildlife Research Institute’s pop-up gift shop is also full of items, Quint said, such as apparel, books, gift cards, wildlife guides and “tons of plushie animals that represent our native species, including a massive stuffed rattle snake.”
The venue is donated for Hawk Watch to use by David and Begent, who also own the 2Create Gallery in town. They have been hosting the event at their home, at 18528 Highland Valley Road, for close to 10 years.
“You can choose your own, family-friendly adventure,” said Quint, adding that after the presentation, optional roadside viewing is available. Experts will guide guests to the appropriate locations.
“It’s an all volunteer effort we really believe in,” Quint said. “We’re really happy to host this and highlight the natural features of Ramona to visitors and locals.”
Bittner said her group appreciates the community’s 36 years of for its golden eagle research.
“By attending Hawk Watch, you not only learn, but you are helping protect and the remaining threatened gold eagle territories in our region,” Bittner said.
Hawk Watch takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday in January and February, specifically Jan. 25 and Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22. There is ample parking at the venue.
For more information, 760-765-1957 or www.wildlife-research.org; large groups can email: [email protected].
