The Annual HawkWatch at Effigy Mounds National Monument, is Friday Oct. 6-7, at Marquette.

Each year migrating raptors use thermals created by bluffs lining Mississippi flyway on their southward movements.

HawkWatch provides live raptor presentations, beginning birding, Iowa’s peregrine and osprey reintroduction programs and lots of autumn scenery to enjoy, but the main event is the migrating raptors.

All groups are represented, from broadwings to Cooper’s hawks with eagles, all falcon families, and ospreys. This event improves each migration, thanks to local support and volunteers. The event is free to the public.

Effigy Mounds is just upstream from Marquette, Iowa and hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.