RECORDINGS OF PREVIOUS HAWK MEETINGS BELOW
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5/6/25 Guided Frog Walk
~ Taylor Piephoff Video Unavailable At a recent HAWK outing, participants observed a variety of frog species—including northern cricket frogs, green frogs, Fowler's toads, bullfrogs, and heard gray tree frogs calling. Native plants such as Green Arrow-Arum, Meadow Garlic, and Jewelweed were also highlighted. The event emphasized the threats facing wildlife and habitats from development, climate change, and invasive species, and encouraged participants to engage in conservation efforts to protect North Carolina’s wildlife. Here are some resources for further learning: - Frogs & Toads of NC - Herps of NC |
5/13/2023 Forest Bathing/Forest Therapy
~ Angie Mattson Stegall
Video Unavailable
At a recent HAWK meeting, certified Forest Therapy Guide and author Angie Mattson Stegall led a session on forest bathing, exploring how time in nature can support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Stegall shared insights from her book Notes from Nature and guided participants through tools and practices for connecting with nature to find clarity and calm. The event combined experiential learning, science, and discussion to help attendees incorporate forest bathing into their own wellness routines.
And worth noting: with this practice, the Forest is the “therapist” and Angie is simply the Guide.
~ Angie Mattson Stegall
Video Unavailable
At a recent HAWK meeting, certified Forest Therapy Guide and author Angie Mattson Stegall led a session on forest bathing, exploring how time in nature can support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Stegall shared insights from her book Notes from Nature and guided participants through tools and practices for connecting with nature to find clarity and calm. The event combined experiential learning, science, and discussion to help attendees incorporate forest bathing into their own wellness routines.
And worth noting: with this practice, the Forest is the “therapist” and Angie is simply the Guide.
4/4/2023 WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
~ Andrew Cole
Video Unavailable
At a recent HAWK meeting, Andrew Cole, wildlife management expert and owner of Song Dog Wildlife Management, shared stories of his wildlife encounters both in the field and at home. Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience—including research work and roles with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission—Cole discussed his background in wildlife control and conservation. He also highlighted his involvement with various wildlife organizations, including Bat Conservation International.
~ Andrew Cole
Video Unavailable
At a recent HAWK meeting, Andrew Cole, wildlife management expert and owner of Song Dog Wildlife Management, shared stories of his wildlife encounters both in the field and at home. Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience—including research work and roles with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission—Cole discussed his background in wildlife control and conservation. He also highlighted his involvement with various wildlife organizations, including Bat Conservation International.
3/9/2023 Hawks at HAWK: Falconry
~ Aaron Kincaid
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Aaron Kincaid, president of the North Carolina Falconers Guild, led an in-person event featuring several falconers and their hawks. Kincaid shared the history of falconry, its ancient roots, and the practices of training and caring for raptors. Attendees also learned about the specialized equipment and techniques used in the sport of hunting alongside trained birds of prey.
~ Aaron Kincaid
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, Aaron Kincaid, president of the North Carolina Falconers Guild, led an in-person event featuring several falconers and their hawks. Kincaid shared the history of falconry, its ancient roots, and the practices of training and caring for raptors. Attendees also learned about the specialized equipment and techniques used in the sport of hunting alongside trained birds of prey.
2/7/2023 INVASIVE PLANTS
~ Johnny Randall, Drew Gay
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At a recent HAWK meeting, experts Johnny Randall and Drew Gay discussed the threat of invasive plants to North Carolina’s native species and habitats. Randall, from the NC Botanical Garden, highlighted alternatives to conventional landscaping to promote biodiversity at home. Gay, from the NC Division of Water Resources, explained how to identify and manage the state’s most problematic invasive plants and outlined relevant noxious weed laws.
~ Johnny Randall, Drew Gay
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, experts Johnny Randall and Drew Gay discussed the threat of invasive plants to North Carolina’s native species and habitats. Randall, from the NC Botanical Garden, highlighted alternatives to conventional landscaping to promote biodiversity at home. Gay, from the NC Division of Water Resources, explained how to identify and manage the state’s most problematic invasive plants and outlined relevant noxious weed laws.
12/6/2022 BATS
~ Monica Calhoun
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Monica Calhoun, a biology graduate student from UNC Greensboro, shared insights from her research on bats in North Carolina’s Piedmont wetlands. She introduced the state’s 17 bat species, highlighting the seven she studies, and played recordings of their distinctive calls. Calhoun also discussed threats like white-nose syndrome and other bat diseases. Her fascination with bats began during a wetland restoration project, fueled by her lifelong passion for unusual animals.
~ Monica Calhoun
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, Monica Calhoun, a biology graduate student from UNC Greensboro, shared insights from her research on bats in North Carolina’s Piedmont wetlands. She introduced the state’s 17 bat species, highlighting the seven she studies, and played recordings of their distinctive calls. Calhoun also discussed threats like white-nose syndrome and other bat diseases. Her fascination with bats began during a wetland restoration project, fueled by her lifelong passion for unusual animals.
11/7/2022 FUZZ: When Nature Breaks the Law
~ Mary Roach
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At a recent HAWK meeting, bestselling author Mary Roach discussed her latest book, Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law, which humorously explores conflicts between humans and wildlife. Drawing from two years of global travel with wildlife experts, Roach shared stories of animal-human friction and highlighted innovative methods for peaceful coexistence. Known as “America’s funniest science writer,” Roach has authored several acclaimed nonfiction books and contributed to publications like National Geographic and The New York Times Magazine.
~ Mary Roach
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, bestselling author Mary Roach discussed her latest book, Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law, which humorously explores conflicts between humans and wildlife. Drawing from two years of global travel with wildlife experts, Roach shared stories of animal-human friction and highlighted innovative methods for peaceful coexistence. Known as “America’s funniest science writer,” Roach has authored several acclaimed nonfiction books and contributed to publications like National Geographic and The New York Times Magazine.
11/1/2022 SOLITARY BEES
~ Dave Hunter
Video Unavailable
At a recent HAWK meeting, Dave Hunter, founder of Crown Bees, introduced the fascinating world of solitary bees, which live independently in ground or cavity nests rather than hives. He explained their vital role in pollination and food production, and shared best practices for raising solitary bees at home to support healthy gardens and ecosystems. Hunter also discussed his work with researchers to promote responsible solitary beekeeping.
~ Dave Hunter
Video Unavailable
At a recent HAWK meeting, Dave Hunter, founder of Crown Bees, introduced the fascinating world of solitary bees, which live independently in ground or cavity nests rather than hives. He explained their vital role in pollination and food production, and shared best practices for raising solitary bees at home to support healthy gardens and ecosystems. Hunter also discussed his work with researchers to promote responsible solitary beekeeping.
4/5/2022 Of mice and men (and cats and pythons)
~ Mike Cove
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Mike Cove, Research Curator of Mammalogy at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, highlighted the important ecological roles of rodents, particularly the woodrat, which aids forest restoration. He shared his conservation work in the Florida Keys, where he studied the impacts of feral cats on endangered small mammals, as well as his ongoing mammal research in North Carolina.
~ Mike Cove
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Mike Cove, Research Curator of Mammalogy at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, highlighted the important ecological roles of rodents, particularly the woodrat, which aids forest restoration. He shared his conservation work in the Florida Keys, where he studied the impacts of feral cats on endangered small mammals, as well as his ongoing mammal research in North Carolina.
3/1/2022 CRITTER CAM CRAZE
~ Caryl Mallory
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At a recent HAWK meeting, leadership team member Caryl Mallory shared how to set up and use wildlife cameras to observe animals in your own backyard. She discussed camera types, setup tips, and shared videos and photos from her experiences capturing wildlife both at home and in the forest, inspiring attendees to explore the hidden animal activity around them.
~ Caryl Mallory
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, leadership team member Caryl Mallory shared how to set up and use wildlife cameras to observe animals in your own backyard. She discussed camera types, setup tips, and shared videos and photos from her experiences capturing wildlife both at home and in the forest, inspiring attendees to explore the hidden animal activity around them.
2/1/2022 Mushrooms, Molds, and Mycorrhizae: The Amazing Role of Fungi
~ Tradd Cotter
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At a recent HAWK meeting, mycologist Tradd Cotter shared the fascinating world of fungi and their vital roles in nutrient cycling, pathogen suppression, and ecosystem balance. Highlighting their interactions with insects, nematodes, and bacteria, Cotter emphasized fungi’s immense biodiversity and untapped potential. He inspired attendees to see fungi as powerful allies for a sustainable future and offered insights on integrating them into everyday life. Cotter, co-founder of Mushroom Mountain with his wife Olga, has over 22 years of experience cultivating and studying fungi in the Southeast.
~ Tradd Cotter
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At a recent HAWK meeting, mycologist Tradd Cotter shared the fascinating world of fungi and their vital roles in nutrient cycling, pathogen suppression, and ecosystem balance. Highlighting their interactions with insects, nematodes, and bacteria, Cotter emphasized fungi’s immense biodiversity and untapped potential. He inspired attendees to see fungi as powerful allies for a sustainable future and offered insights on integrating them into everyday life. Cotter, co-founder of Mushroom Mountain with his wife Olga, has over 22 years of experience cultivating and studying fungi in the Southeast.
1/4/2022 AMAZING HUMMINGBIRDS!!
~ Susan Campbell
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At a recent HAWK meeting, hummingbird expert Susan Campbell shared fascinating insights about ruby-throated hummingbirds and unexpected species that overwinter in North Carolina, including some in Charlotte. Drawing on her experience banding over 4,000 hummingbirds since 1999, Campbell discussed her research, tagging efforts, and the mysteries of these remarkable birds. She is an affiliate of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences.
~ Susan Campbell
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, hummingbird expert Susan Campbell shared fascinating insights about ruby-throated hummingbirds and unexpected species that overwinter in North Carolina, including some in Charlotte. Drawing on her experience banding over 4,000 hummingbirds since 1999, Campbell discussed her research, tagging efforts, and the mysteries of these remarkable birds. She is an affiliate of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences.
12/8/2021 Discovering Biodiversity Right Here in Mecklenburg County
~Lenny Lampel
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Lenny Lampel, Natural Resources Supervisor for Mecklenburg County, discussed local efforts to protect and enhance biodiversity. He highlighted recent and ongoing projects within the county’s nature preserves aimed at understanding and conserving native plants and wildlife. Lampel emphasized the importance of biodiversity and the impacts of human activity on ecosystems, underscoring the county’s commitment to conservation through its Park and Recreation Division.
~Lenny Lampel
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, Lenny Lampel, Natural Resources Supervisor for Mecklenburg County, discussed local efforts to protect and enhance biodiversity. He highlighted recent and ongoing projects within the county’s nature preserves aimed at understanding and conserving native plants and wildlife. Lampel emphasized the importance of biodiversity and the impacts of human activity on ecosystems, underscoring the county’s commitment to conservation through its Park and Recreation Division.
11/7/2021 TAKE A (VIRTUAL) HIKE!!!
~ Jon Storm
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At a recent HAWK meeting, participants enjoyed a virtual nature hike led by Dr. Jon Storm, Professor of Biology at USC Upstate. Dr. Storm guided attendees through the plants, fungi, and wildlife commonly found in the Carolina Piedmont during spring. He also introduced his free Field Guide to the Southern Piedmont and shared insights from his research in small mammal ecology and animal behavior.
~ Jon Storm
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, participants enjoyed a virtual nature hike led by Dr. Jon Storm, Professor of Biology at USC Upstate. Dr. Storm guided attendees through the plants, fungi, and wildlife commonly found in the Carolina Piedmont during spring. He also introduced his free Field Guide to the Southern Piedmont and shared insights from his research in small mammal ecology and animal behavior.
11/2/2021 LEAVE THE LEAVES AND PREPARING FOR WINTER
~ Carol Buie-Jackson
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Master Composter and Habitat Steward, Carol Buie-Jackson, presents on how being a lazy fall gardener is a good thing! All those leaves are important: Compost, mulch, insect habitat! Also, learn what you can do to give the birds and other wildlife the best chance to thrive in the coming months. Using video and pictures from her Matthews garden, Carol will help you prepare for the cold winter ahead!
Carol Buie-Jackson is the owner of Bird House on the Greenway and Wildology at Waverly. She serves on the Board of the National Wildlife Federation as the Region 3 Director and was the first woman to serve as Chair of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation. She is a founding member of HAWK and still serves on the Leadership Team. She is a Habitat Steward, Master Naturalist and Master Composter. Carol and her husband Jay live in Matthews with Ella, the shop dog.
~ Carol Buie-Jackson
Watch the Meeting
Master Composter and Habitat Steward, Carol Buie-Jackson, presents on how being a lazy fall gardener is a good thing! All those leaves are important: Compost, mulch, insect habitat! Also, learn what you can do to give the birds and other wildlife the best chance to thrive in the coming months. Using video and pictures from her Matthews garden, Carol will help you prepare for the cold winter ahead!
Carol Buie-Jackson is the owner of Bird House on the Greenway and Wildology at Waverly. She serves on the Board of the National Wildlife Federation as the Region 3 Director and was the first woman to serve as Chair of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation. She is a founding member of HAWK and still serves on the Leadership Team. She is a Habitat Steward, Master Naturalist and Master Composter. Carol and her husband Jay live in Matthews with Ella, the shop dog.
10/5/2021 THEY'RE BACK!! THE MAJESTIC ELK IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
~ Justin McVey
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Justin McVey, Mountain Regional Wildlife Biologist with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, shared the story of elk reintroduction in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. He discussed how the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and NC Wildlife Federation collaborated to restore elk to their native lands, the growing herd population, and the iconic bugling heard during rut season. McVey also explained ongoing management efforts and how the public can responsibly enjoy these majestic animals in western North Carolina.
5/4/2021 Synchronous Fireflies: Lightning Bugs or Fireflies?
~ Dr. Kuhn
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Dr. Will Kuhn, Director of Science and Research at Discover Life in America, presented on the fireflies of the Smokies region. He shared fascinating facts about fireflies, including their diversity, the uniqueness of synchronous fireflies, and how individuals can support firefly populations in their own backyards. The talk captured the wonder these creatures inspire in both children and adults.
~ Dr. Kuhn
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, Dr. Will Kuhn, Director of Science and Research at Discover Life in America, presented on the fireflies of the Smokies region. He shared fascinating facts about fireflies, including their diversity, the uniqueness of synchronous fireflies, and how individuals can support firefly populations in their own backyards. The talk captured the wonder these creatures inspire in both children and adults.
4/6/2021 BABIES, BABIES EVERYWHERE! AND WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU FIND ONE
~ ANIMAL REHABILITATORS OF THE CAROLINAS
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At a recent HAWK meeting, volunteers from Animal Rehabilitators of the Carolinas (ARC) shared their work rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife. They introduced the Charlotte-based, volunteer-run nonprofit, discussed the challenges of wildlife rehabilitation, showcased recent rescues, and offered guidance on what to do if you encounter an injured or orphaned animal.
~ ANIMAL REHABILITATORS OF THE CAROLINAS
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, volunteers from Animal Rehabilitators of the Carolinas (ARC) shared their work rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife. They introduced the Charlotte-based, volunteer-run nonprofit, discussed the challenges of wildlife rehabilitation, showcased recent rescues, and offered guidance on what to do if you encounter an injured or orphaned animal.
3/2/2021 Delicious: The Evolution of Flavor
~ Dr. Rob Dunn
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At a recent HAWK meeting, Dr. Rob Dunn, Professor of Applied Ecology at NC State University, explored themes from his new book Delicious..., co-authored with Monica Sanchez. He discussed how flavor and pleasure influence the behavior of animals—including birds, dogs, pigs, and humans—and shape their interactions with the world. Dunn also connected these ideas to his earlier work Never Home Alone, examining how the taste- driven pleasures of everyday creatures like spiders, cockroaches, and mice have evolved alongside humans.
~ Dr. Rob Dunn
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, Dr. Rob Dunn, Professor of Applied Ecology at NC State University, explored themes from his new book Delicious..., co-authored with Monica Sanchez. He discussed how flavor and pleasure influence the behavior of animals—including birds, dogs, pigs, and humans—and shape their interactions with the world. Dunn also connected these ideas to his earlier work Never Home Alone, examining how the taste- driven pleasures of everyday creatures like spiders, cockroaches, and mice have evolved alongside humans.
9/1/2020 Co-existing with Wildlife
~ David Mizejewski
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At a recent HAWK meeting, David Mizejewski of the National Wildlife Federation presented on overcoming fears of wildlife like bees, snakes, spiders, and bats. He highlighted their vital ecological roles and offered practical tips for safe coexistence. Mizejewski also promoted the Garden for Wildlife program, encouraging native plantings to support local species. The talk concluded with a Q&A on common backyard wildlife issues.
~ David Mizejewski
Watch the Meeting
At a recent HAWK meeting, David Mizejewski of the National Wildlife Federation presented on overcoming fears of wildlife like bees, snakes, spiders, and bats. He highlighted their vital ecological roles and offered practical tips for safe coexistence. Mizejewski also promoted the Garden for Wildlife program, encouraging native plantings to support local species. The talk concluded with a Q&A on common backyard wildlife issues.
