Category: Hawktober

Soar Into October: Hawktober Returns in San Diego County

Every autumn, something special takes flight across San Diego County: Hawktober, the Parks & Recreation Department’s annual tribute to our local birds of prey. This year marks the seventh edition of the event — a month-long celebration dedicated to hawks, owls, falcons, and the many fascinating adaptations that make them apex aerial hunters. 

What Is Hawktober?

Hawktober is a series of free educational workshops held in county parks, preserves, campgrounds, and nature centers. The goal? To bring wildlife education to local communities, connect people (young and old) with live animal ambassadors, and deepen appreciation for the roles raptors play in San Diego’s ecosystems.

See my Post on Hawktobere here https://socalexposure.com/2025/10/04/october-is-hawktober/

I attended the Saturday October 4th Event at the Tijuana River Valley Campground. The group was introduced to 4 raptor ambassadors

Ranger Danica introduced us to Ferris the Ferruginous Hawk Ambassador

SD Parks Manager Charles brought out Buster the Red Tailed Hawk Ambassador

Ranger Samantha bought out the Barn Owl

Manager Charles with Athena the Burrowing Owl

OCTOBER IS HAWKTOBER!

Hawktober is our annual celebration of local birds of prey, including hawks, owls, and falcons. This marks the event’s seventh year offering FREE workshops at parks, campgrounds and wilderness preserves across San Diego County. 

Events are free and open to all ages, starting October 4. Explore multiple workshops to meet different birds and rangers.

Visit San Diego Parks and Recreation Website for more information

https://www.sdparks.org/content/sdparks/en/participate/hawktober.html

What to Expect:

  • Live raptors: Meet ambassador birds like hawks, owls, and falcons up close and learn about their unique behaviors and adaptations.
  • Fun facts: Discover how these birds live, what they eat, how they hunt, when they’re active, and special traits like speed, camouflage, or night vision.
  • Bird tales: Each event features different birds—each with a name and story—shared by passionate rangers.
  • Special perk: Grab limited-edition Hawktober trading cards (while supplies last), complete with stats like wingspan, weight, and fun facts.