The Raptor Project will showcase live birds of prey throughout the day. The Project maintains one of the largest collections of eagles, hawks, falcons and owls in the world. Most are rehabilitated birds whose injuries prevent them from living in the wild. Park Rangers will give walking tours of the historic Boat Basin and vicinity throughout the day. Christopher Letts will offer free tastings of smoked and pickled shad.
Shad fishing is an age-old tradition on the Hudson.
Shad have been known to travel up to 120 miles upriver to lay their eggs. Shad are a highly-prized fish both for their flesh and roe, and the catch made here will be shipped all over the country. However, this is a fragile, local industry, at the mercy of weather and Mother Nature. Shad are still in danger of being over-fished by larger commercial fleets, and restrictions prevent local fishermen from setting nets from Friday noon until Saturday at midnight. Fishermen must also contend with time and tide.