In one day this fall, more than 5,000 broadwing hawks passed overhead at Carter Hill. It was Sept. 19, a day when the platform and area was visited by more than 300 elementary school children.

Hawks and vultures start flying about 9:30 a.m. as the sun warms the air to produce thermals and mountain updrafts that offer hawks more lift and easier flying.

To kick off the watch, Hawk Mountain will have an open house celebration on Saturday. It starts with a guided bird walk at 9 a.m. Meet a naturalist in the Native Plant Garden at 10:30, noon and 1:30.