Hawk Mountain Sanctuary has been called “the mother church of raptor conservation,” and for good reason. On this high, scenic, wind-swept ridge in the Appalachians of eastern Pennsylvania, the world’s first refuge for migrating raptors was established in 1934. Today, this 2,400-acre sanctuary is renowned for both its annual autumn migration of hawks, eagles, and falcons, and for its global leadership in raptor conservation, having trained hundreds of young scientists from 75 countries.

What bird is that? Consult our bird identification guide to ID mystery birds in the backyard and beyond. We have photos, song recordings, in-depth entries, and more to help bird watchers correctly identify the birds they spot.

How do you make your international birding trip a success? Retired adventure travel agent Marci Madsen Fuller tells you how.

Aside from being an author, artist, and columnist well-known to Bird Watcher's Digest and Watching Backyard Birds readers alike, Julie Zickefoose is also a licensed wildlife rehabilitator with a wealth of experience in caring for injured birds. If you encounter a nestling or fledgling outside the nest, learn how to assess if the bird is in danger—and whether it's wise to intervene—and if so, what to do.

Why become a birder? Young birders Corey Husic and Blake Campbell will give you ten reasons to try out this great hobby.