Winter raptors program at the wildlife refuge

Vernon — On Sunday, Dec. 27, at 2 p.m., the Friends of the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge will present a program on eagles, rough-legged hawks from Canada and endangered short-eared owls, birds that find refuge along the Wallkill during the winter. An indoor introduction will begin the program at the Refuge Headquarters, 1547 County Route 565, in Vernon. Live raptors from the Avian Wildlife Center will be featured. At 3 p.m. Ken Witkowski, biological technician for the Refuge, will lead the second half of the program at the Liberty Loop Trail. Participants can drive to the trail to look for several species of hawks and owls, and may bring binoculars. The program is free; donations are appreciated. For more information call Ken Witkowski at 973-702-7266 ext. 13, the Avian Wildlife Center at 973-702-1957 or e-mail friendsofwallkillrivernwr@yahoo.com.