SOULFUL: Owls are among the subjects of an upcoming talk by expert Gregory Martel in Kingston. (Photo by Jordan Scanlon)

A talk on “Birds of Prey” presented by Gregory Martel through Friends of Princeton Nursery Lands is scheduled for Sunday, November 9 starting at 1 p.m.in Mapleton Preserve/D&R Canal State Park, 145 Mapleton Road, Kingston.

French native Martel is a master falconer who has worked with almost 50 raptors in the past 12 years. He trains and flies hawks, falcons and owls for a variety of purposes, including hunting, falconry abatement (bird control) and education. In 2014, he created Masters of the Skies to educate the general public about birds of prey and falconry.

Participants will learn about hawks, owls, and falcons up close in this family-friendly event featuring a talk on raptors and the ancient art of falconry. Admission is free. The event will be held weather-permitting. Register at fpnl.org. Bring lawn chairs or blankets, but leave dogs at home.

At 2:30 p.m., a special member “renewal” experience under Martel’s guidance is scheduled as an incentive for renewing membership or joining FPNL for 2026. To sign up, email karen.e.linder@gmail.com. Signing an additional waiver will be required.