The Golden Gate Raptor Observatory (GGRO) uses long-term volunteer-powered research programs to track the fall migration of raptors through the Marin Headlands. Trainings are offered only once a year in July and early August for participation in either the Hawkwatch or Banding program. Hawkwatchers spot, identify, and count passing hawks from Hawk Hill while banders trap, band, measure, and release hawks from nearby banding blinds.
Both Hawkwatch and Banding volunteers are expected to commit at least one full regular day every two weeks between mid-August and early December. Volunteers should be 18 years of age or older; all training is provided. After starting with the GGRO, volunteers may also participate in the radiotelemetry, docent, and raptor nest monitoring programs.
Four seasonal interns are also recruited each February to assist all aspects of GGRO’s raptor migration studies. Internships run from early July through the end of December.
Visit the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory page for more information and details about each of our volunteer research programs.
The Conservancy's Public Agency Partners
