Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge was used for a falcon release site for only one year in 1982. Located in the southeast portion of Virginia Beach, the 1860 hectare refuge has approximately even proportions of land and water and is managed primarily for migratory waterfowl. The seven kilometers of ocean shoreline provide an abundance of prey with the variety of tidal beaches, marshes, and maritime pine forest. Unfortunately, the area also has a relatively high number of predators including raccoons and Great Horned Owls.

The 10 meter hack tower was located on one of several managed impoundments with the box facing southeast. The one year of use was relatively uneventful with the exception of a young female falcon who was injured on her maiden flight. She was quickly rehabilitated and released again in time to fledge successfully that season. All in all the site was quite successful although the persistent presence of Great Horned Owls in the area left it an undesirable choice for future years.

List of Hack Attendants

Janet Artley
Rudy Cashwell, Jr.