Appalachian Field Institute Workshops

Amphibians & Reptiles of the Hawk Mountain Region of Pennsylvania

Saturday, May 17, 2025 to Sunday, May 18, 2025

8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

This workshop will focus on the amphibians and reptiles that inhabit Hawk Mountain and the surrounding areas. Dr. Thomas LaDuke, professor of Biology at East Stroudsburg University, will provide an introduction to the major features of the life history patterns of local amphibians and reptiles and will lead an exploration of the major types of habitats they occupy with an examination of the assemblages of species found in each habitat type. Emphasis will be placed on the identification of the various species as well as the life history and habitat preferences of each type. Proper techniques for the capture and handling of each species encountered will be demonstrated.

Registration required. Limited to 10 participants.

$200, $175 for Members & Students

Birdwatching for Beginners

Saturday, May 31, 2025

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Join us for this full-day fun workshop on bird-watching for beginners. Are you curious about how to begin to learn your birds? Or what tools you might need? You do not need to have any advance knowledge to join us for this one day field exploration where we get you started on a new hobby and way to explore nature. Come learn about the books, apps, and binoculars that are suited for beginners and how to use them. Discover the common birds found in forest and fields of Pennsylvania, and how to identify by sight and sound. We will explore Hawk Mountain and nearby areas, make a bird list for the day, and get you started on a new hobby! With the Bird Atlas underway this is a great time to begin learning your birds and contributing to the Atlas data collection even from your backyard!

Registration required. Limited to 10 participants.

$100, $85 for Members & Students

Appalachian Forest Ecology & Tree Identification

Saturday, July 12, 2025

8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Appalachian forests provide important habitat for wildlife and people alike. Here, we take a closer look at trees and the forest community. Together we will explore the diversity and ecology of Appalachian trees and shrubs of Hawk Mountain in this full-day workshop. Designed for the beginning naturalist, curious nature enthusiast, or interested student, Dr. Chris Sacchi, Kutztown University professor, and HMS science staff will share how to identify common trees and shrubs of Appalachians, and how to understand and measure trees, tree seedlings and their communities. The workshop will take place at Hawk Mountain and compare trees found on ridges to those in valleys. Join us to learn your Appalachian trees and foster a new appreciation for their interesting ecology! The workshop will be primarily outside with short forays into the forest. The morning will be spent learning how to identify trees and plants in the forest, while in the afternoon we will explore the forest community and learn how ecologists study or measure forest communities. Bring your own lunch for a midday lunch break. Rain date July 13.

Registration required. Limited to 12 participants.

$100, $85 for Members & Students

Appalachian Pollinators: Bees, Butterflies & Plants

Saturday, July 26, 2025

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

In this one-day course we'll be exploring pollinating insects and their relationships with native plants in the meadows surrounding the Acopian Center for Conservation Learning. This course has a focus on identification of native bee species.

Registration required. Limited to 10 participants.

$100, $85 for Members & Students

Migration Magic: Enjoying Neotropical Migrant Birds on the Move

Saturday, September 20, 2025 to Sunday, September 21, 2025
6:30 AM - 3:00 PM (Sat) and 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Sun)

Birdwatching is a fast-growing pastime and viewing bird migration along the Mountain can be a thrilling introduction to birds and their identification. Neotropical birds are a subset of birds that travel from North to South America along migration corridors each fall. Hawk Mountain is well known for its concentration of neotropical migrants in fall and birdwatching is an exciting way to enjoy nature. Geared towards novice and intermediate birdwatchers, Dr. Terry Master will provide an introduction to neotropical birds, their identification and migration behavior, and provide attendees with the tools to continue their education after the workshop. Participants will be sent a pre-recorded Zoom lecture one week prior to the course. During the two-day field component, Dr. Master and the group will explore different habitats on and around Hawk Mountain to find and identify migrating songbirds and raptors. The workshop will also include a brief introduction to trapping and banding songbirds.

Registration required. Limited to 10 participants.

$200, $175 for Members & Students

Introduction to Raptor Field Techniques

Option 1: Thursday, October 30, 2025 to Sunday, November 2, 2025

Option 2: Thursday, November 6, 2025 to Sunday, November 9, 2025

8:00 AM - 4:30 PM daily

This four-day workshop builds your skills in raptor field techniques and offers insight on how biologists study raptors. Learn new methods, or hone existing skills, at the birthplace of raptor conservation during fall migration. You will receive hands-on training in raptor identification, trapping methods, handling, proper measurement techniques, blood sampling, surveys, telemetry, and more. Small class sizes ensure individual participation and training as students assist biologists on active research projects. No special experience is necessary, and the class is open to the public. Note: intermediate hiking uphill on rocky, uneven terrain and extensive time outside in different types of weather.

Deposit of $100 due at registration. Limited to 8 participants per class.

$700, $650 for Members & Students