Below are daily charts and field notes from the 2013 Hawk-count season, as submitted by Steve Kolbe and Bill Purcell.
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Raptor Observations:
Black Vulture was the highlight for the day.
Non-raptor Observations:
Besides the Blue Jays and Cedar Waxwings there was a small mix of migrants
including 1 Red-headed Woodpecker, 5 E. Kingbirds, 10 E. Bluebirds, Scarlet
Tanager and 2 Indigo Buntings.
Weather:
Southerly winds and lots of clouds for background today.
Predictions:
South winds but possibly wet.
Raptor Observations:
Mostly young Broad-winged Hawks, as expected. The 37 Bald Eagles put us well
past the old mark of 609 for the season (a record that will undoubtedly be
broken in the next few years).
Non-raptor Observations:
One Red-headed Woodpecker, 4 E. Kingbirds, 742 Blue Jays, 10 E. Bluebirds
and 1 E. Meadowlark – all moving over the north lookout before 10 AM.
Weather:
Hot and humid, even the lake breeze did little to keep us cool.
Predictions:
Today is the end of the “Official Season”. Of course the hawks don’t care
and will continue to move on favorable conditions. Some of us will be there
to observe and record.
Raptor Observations:
A nice flight for May 30 and the 28 Bald Eagles brings us to 8 short of the
seasonal record of 609.
Non-raptor Observations:
19 Green Herons, small numbers of Great Crested Flycatchers, E. Kingbirds
and E. Bluebirds flying over. Yellow-bellied Flycatcher and Blackpolls on
the bluff.
Weather:
Hot and steamy, the lake breeze was refreshing!
Predictions:
Another hot and steamy day! Hoping for a Kite and at least 9 Bald Eagles.
Raptor Observations:
A nice flight for about 1.5 hours until the rain shut it down.
Non-raptor Observations:
19 Common Nighthawks in the evening.
Weather:
Rain through mid-morning, becoming sunny for 2.5 hours and then rain and
overcast for the rest of the count.
Predictions:
Supposed to be warm and dry, there should be some hawks on the move.
Raptor Observations:
Virtually nothing on the move.
Non-raptor Observations:
1650 Cedar Waxwings on the move today.
Weather:
Fairly light SE winds, cloudy skies, and mild temperatures.
Predictions:
SW winds, warmer temperatures, chance of rain/thunderstorm. Perhaps there
will be some raptors moving between showers.
Raptor Observations:
A small bit of movement.
Weather:
Wall-to-wall blue skies, fairly warm temperatures, and moderate WNW winds.
Predictions:
Could be pretty good. Fairly strong SE winds, warmer temperatures, and
increasing cloud cover. Immature BWs and BE may be on the move.
Raptor Observations:
Virtually empty skies again today.
Weather:
Strong NW winds today with warmer temperatures and more sun.
Predictions:
Warmer temperatures, lighter NW winds shifting to W, and clear skies.
Raptor Observations:
Nothing moving.
Non-raptor Observations:
One Common Nighthawk was the sole highlight of the day.
Weather:
Chilly temperatures, strong NW winds, mostly cloudy skies.
Predictions:
More of the same. Strong NW winds, a bit warmer, and more sunshine. Not
expecting much.
Raptor Observations:
Some movement triggered by the sunshine and then shutdown by the rain.
Non-raptor Observations:
Another adult Red-headed Woodpecker passed the Hill this afternoon.
Weather:
Light to moderate SW winds today with light and variable winds later in the
day. Mostly cloudy early with rain, but eventual clearing. A few bands of
rain passed through in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Doesn’t sound good. Chance of rain, strong NW winds, and cool temperatures.
I’m not expecting much.
Raptor Observations:
Quite slow until the sun came out, and then an excellent flight of immature
Broad-winged Hawks, Turkey Vultures, and Bald Eagles. The mid-afternoon
shower put an end to the flight for the day.
Non-raptor Observations:
Non-raptor story of the day was the Common Nighthawk show after the rain
shower. A group of 16 went through rather quickly, and a second group
foraged out front for quite a while in the late afternoon. The highest
count of this flock was 77 Common Nighthawks in the air simultaneously!
Other highlights include six Sandhill Cranes and one Red-headed
Woodpecker.
Weather:
Overcast conditions with light southerly winds and warm temperatures this
morning. Eventual clearing by midday with light and variable winds. A brief
rain shower passed in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Should be a cleanup flight of Broad-winged Hawks tomorrow. Conditions are
predicted to be mostly cloudy, southwest winds shifting to west, and warm
temps. Could be a nice flight, especially if there are a few breaks in the
sky.
Raptor Observations:
A slow start today. I was almost ready to give up on the day when a short
flight of Broad-winged Hawks occurred south of the South Lookout. This
burst of birds ended as quickly as it began.
Non-raptor Observations:
A single White-winged Crossbill was heard and then seen flying east along
the bluff in the early morning. Also another adult Red-headed Woodpecker
passed through, stopping briefly on the telephone pole.
Weather:
Rain showers early this morning with light winds. Temperatures and humidity
ramped up in a hurry after the sun came out, as did the lake breeze which
was fairly strong out of the NW by the end of the day. Mostly sunny skies
and hot temps in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures, partly cloudy skies, and SW winds increasing as the day
goes on. Could be a bit of a flight as the cold front approaches from the
west.
Raptor Observations:
A cleanup flight of Broad-winged Hawks this morning, and then a bit of a flight down at the South Lookout. It’s possible the flight continued much farther inland out of view.
Weather
Very light southeast winds today until a lake breeze kicked in. Warm temperatures and partly cloudy skies.
Predictions:
Sounds similar to today. Light southerly winds until a lake breeze kicks in, warm temperatures, and partly cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
Quite slow going in the morning and early afternoon, but then a nice little flight started up during the Birdathon picnic! Turkey Vultures and immature Broad-winged Hawks were the main players, but excellent numbers of Bald Eagles were also present.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Ruby-throated Hummingbird flight today, along with Eastern Bluebirds. The first Common Nighthawks came through right on cue in the early evening.
Weather:
Fairly strong SE winds, mild temperatures, and overcast skies clearing in the late afternoon.
Predictions:
Should be some raptors on the move tomorrow after the flight this evening. Warm temperatures and light southerly winds will be favorable until a lake breeze kicks in mid-day.
Raptor Observations:
Nothing really got going in the morning, and the lake breeze certainly
didn’t help jump start the flight.
Weather:
Fairly warm temperatures, light SE winds before a lake breeze kicked in,
and partly cloudy skies.
Predictions:
Sounds pretty good. SE winds increasing in strength throughout the day,
warm temps, and partly sunny skies. Could be a bit of movement.
Raptor Observations:
A decent flight of immature Broad-winged Hawks before the flight died with
the stronger NW winds.
Weather:
Mostly sunny skies today with seasonable temperatures. Light NW winds
increasing as the day progressed.
Predictions:
Light southeast winds early tomorrow before a Lake breeze kicks in. Mostly
sunny skies and warm temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of raptors seen from the South Lookout.
Non-raptor Observations:
Heard my first Blackpoll Warbler of the spring today along the bluff. Also
had 22 Brant flyby going north.
Weather:
Strong WNW winds that died somewhat in the middle of the day. Warm
temperatures and mostly clear skies.
Predictions:
Light NW winds, seasonable temperatures, and blue skies tomorrow. I’m not
expecting a big flight.
Raptor Observations
The best flight we’ve seen in a week or so. Nice Northern Harrier and Sharp-shinned Hawk flight in the overcast conditions. Bald Eagles started moving through in the afternoon. There seemed to be Merlin moving and hunting passerines all over the place today.
Non Raptor Observations
A great morning flight today! A huge Eastern Kingbird flight (293), lots of Bobolinks (1200), Baltimore Orioles (240), Solitary Sandpipers (41), and Pine Siskins (555). Other notable species included one Prairie Warbler, two Orchard Orioles, and nine Evening Grosbeaks.
Weather
A bit of a wild weather day today on the Hill. Overcast conditions early with strong SE winds and chilly temperatures. Next, a few bands of rain moved through in the early morning. Eventually the skies brightened. In the afternoon winds shifted and increased in strength from the west.
Predictions
Strong west winds, warmer temperatures, and clear skies. Could be a decent flight but be warned birds will be high and moving quickly!
Raptor Observations:
Broad-winged Hawks straggling past in ones and twos.
Weather:
Light NW wind through the day.
Predictions:
Good conditions with SE winds, numbers depend upon how many young Broad-winged Hawks and Bald Eagles are in the area.
Raptor Observations:
No flight that I could see today.
Weather:
Cloudy skies early today with clearing by mid-day. Strong west winds and
cool temperatures.
Predictions:
Warmer temps, lighter west/northwest winds, and partly sunny skies. Sounds
a bit better, but probably won’t be too much on the move.
Raptor Observations:
Not much on the move.
Weather:
Surprisingly chilly conditions today with the strong west wind. A
changeable sky and a few sprinkles.
Predictions:
Sounds like today: cool temperatures and strong west winds. Not expecting a big flight.
Visitors:
Over 300 folks enjoyed a very successful Bird Festival on the Hill today!
Weather:
Light rain early this morning for a few hours before the precipitation let
up and left overcast skies for the remainder of the count period. Fairly
strong westerly winds and cooler temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
Quite slow raptor-wise today.
Non-raptor Observations:
An impressive swallow show low overhead on the Hill throughout the day with all six expected species easily seen. A nice assortment of passerines in the hedgerows included a Prairie Warbler, Tennessee Warblers, Cape May Warbler and Orchard Oriole among the usual early May goodies.
Predictions:
Strong W winds with some sun and cool temperatures. Could feel pretty cold especially with the past week’s weather, but there also could be a few birds looking for a strong tailwind.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of raptors that was stopped by a brief band of sprinkles. A nice
little Sharp-shinned Hawk and Northern Harrier flight for the date in the
late afternoon after a bit of clearing.
Weather:
Light southeasterly winds throughout the day again with warm temperatures.
Clear skies early becoming overcast by mid-morning.
Predictions:
Westerly winds tomorrow with a chance of rain and clouds diminishing as the
day progresses. Probably will be a bit of a flight.
Raptor Observations:
A nice bit of movement for a few hours in the morning.
Weather:
Partly cloudy skies with warm temperatures and light southeast winds
shifting to the west in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Southerly winds tomorrow again with mostly cloudy skies and fairly warm
temperatures. Could be birds, but I’m not expecting lots.
Raptor Observations:
A little bit of movement.
Non-raptor Observations:
My first two Scarlet Tanagers of the season flew past today. Bill Purcell
spotted an adult male Black Scoter on the Lake.
Weather:
Partly cloudy skies with increasing cloud cover and some light rain in the
afternoon. Warm temperatures and light southerly winds.
Predictions:
I dunno. Light southerly winds shifting to the west in the afternoon. More
clouds and mild temperatures. Maybe a bit of movement.
Raptor Observations:
Very slim pickings.
Weather:
Mostly blue skies again but a few clouds appeared in the afternoon. Warm
temperatures and light southerly winds shifting to the west/northwest.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures, stronger SE winds, and clouds! Perhaps even a chance of
thunderstorms. Maybe there will be some birds moving ahead of them.
Raptor Observations:
A high trickle of birds today up in the blue.
Non-raptor Observations:
Lots of Blue Jays again along the bluff. A few Baltimore Orioles and
Eastern Kingbirds also, but nothing new for the season.
Weather:
Blue skies, warm temperatures, and light southerly winds until a Lake
breeze kicked in around 1200 EST.
Predictions:
Blue skies, warm temperatures, and light southerly winds shifting to NW.
Sounds strangely familiar.
Raptor Observations:
Raptor highlights today included two Golden Eagles at the North Lookout and
a Black Vulture at the South Lookout.
Non-raptor Observations:
A flyby Orchard Oriole was a nice bird for the Hill.
Weather:
Blue skies, light southerly winds with a lake breeze by midday, and warm
temperatures.
Predictions:
Another carbon copy. Blue skies, southerly winds with a lake breeze and
warm temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of high movement before the lake breeze kicked in and scattered the
flight.
Non-raptor Observations:
New birds for me for the spring included Cape May Warbler, Yellow-throated
Warbler, Great Crested Flycatcher, and Least Flycatcher.
Weather:
Lots of blue sky again today. Light SE winds giving way to a lake breeze in
the late morning. Warm temperatures.
Predictions:
Much like today. Light southerly winds until the lake breeze kicks in. More
blue skies.
Raptor Observations:
An enjoyable flight that eventually disappeared in the early afternoon
making it much less enjoyable. A few late day groups of Broad-winged Hawks
suggest a flight was occurring out of sight throughout the afternoon hours.
Oh dear. Nice Bald Eagle and Osprey numbers.
Weather:
More blue skies today with fairly strong SE winds decreasing in strength as
the day progressed. Warm temperatures.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures and blue skies with southerly winds until a Lake breeze
kicks in around midday.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of high movement over the water and bluff before the winds shifted.
Then the flight line steadily moved inland until it was out of sight to the
south of the South Lookout. Nice numbers of Osprey on the move today.
Non-raptor Observations:
New birds for the Hill this spring included Black-and-white Warbler and
Warbling Vireo. My first Baltimore Oriole flew past, although one was seen
yesterday while I was watching the migrating Black-capped Chickadees. Four
Bobolinks were hanging out near the South Lookout this afternoon.
Weather:
Blue skies from morning until evening today. Light southerly winds until
around noon when the lake breeze kicked in. Warm temperatures.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures again tomorrow with partly cloudy skies and SE winds.
Weather:
SE wind held through the day with lake breeze starting just after count
ended at 5 PM EST. Warm with few clouds after 9 AM.
Predictions:
Light SE winds should turn to a lake breeze by late morning.
Raptor Observations:
Black Vulture was only the second for the season.
Non-raptor Observations:
6 Evening Grosbeaks, 2050 Blue Jays
Weather:
SE winds for most of day going to SSW late and strong enough to ward off
the lake breeze. Mostly cloudy early becoming partly sunny.
Predictions:
Light south winds early should give way to a lake breeze by late morning.
Raptor Observations:
The flight was virtually nonexistent until the sun peeked out, but then a
small movement of raptors occurred until it clouded up again. Lots of low,
close looks.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlights included an excellent Rusty Blackbird (1800), Purple
Finch (105) and Yellow-rumped Warbler (780) flight. Also 15 Evening Grosbeaks.
Weather:
Light drizzle and heavy overcast for the first few hours of daylight with a
bit of eventual clearing before clouding up again. Moderately strong SE
winds and seasonable temperatures.
Predictions:
Looks pretty good for tomorrow. Fairly strong SE winds, hopefully some
spots of sun, and warm temps.
Raptor Observations:
A high bit of flight today in the blue skies.
Non-raptor Observations:
1080 Blue Jays and 470 Black-capped Chickadees today. The other highlight
was a Northern Mockingbird.
Weather:
Warm temperatures today with fairly light SE winds and mostly sunny skies.
Predictions:
Overcast with a chance of rain and stronger SE winds. Could be good again.
Raptor Observations:
Another slow starter, but a moderately high and very enjoyable Broad-winged
Hawk flight developed in the late morning and early afternoon. The Lake
breeze brought an unceremonious end to the flight around 1400 EST. A nice
few hours of Bald Eagle and Turkey Vulture movement as well.
Non-raptor Observations:
Black-capped Chickadee migration continues along the bluff. Joining them
were 670 Blue Jays.
Weather:
Cool temperatures this morning but it warmed up nicely. Very light
southerly winds eventually gave way to a lake breeze in the early
afternoon. Changeable skies.
Predictions:
Looks good again tomorrow. Sunny skies and SE winds that hopefully will be
strong enough to hold off the Lake breeze. Sounds like more birds!
Raptor Observations:
A slow start and an early end, but a decent movement of fairly low Broad-winged Hawks in the middle of the day.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlights include one Upland Sandpiper, the first Bobolink of the season, and a flyby flock of seven Evening Grosbeaks.
Weather:
Light westerly winds early with a bit of lake breeze kicking in to make it WNW for the majority of the day. Mild temperatures and mostly clear skies.
Predictions:
Should be pretty good. Light SSW winds, warm temps, and mostly cloudy skies. Hopefully we can avoid a lake breeze.
Raptor Observations:
A very nice flight as viewed from the South Lookout. Broad-winged Hawks
were highest in the first few hours of the morning as they rode the west
winds, but then larger numbers later in the day were wonderfully low right
over head. Eventually the flight began to drift farther inland, but only in
the late afternoon.
Weather:
Fairly strong west winds eventually slowing and shifting to the NW. Lots of
sun and cool but comfortable temperatures.
Predictions:
Tomorrow sounds similar to today: light westerly winds, mostly sunny, mild
temps. Should be more Broad-wings on the move – after all it’s late April.
Raptor Observations:
A slow start with a low flight of Broad-winged Hawks and Sharp-shinned
Hawks that developed in front of the rain.
Non-raptor Observations:
Black-capped Chickadees were at it again moving along the bluff. Also
notable were one Chimney Swift and two Eastern Kingbirds.
Weather:
A bit of sunshine this morning before mostly cloudy skies took over. A few
spots of sun did reappear in the late morning and early afternoon before
scattered rain showers moved in. SE winds and warm temps.
Predictions:
Should be a cleanup flight tomorrow morning and perhaps a decent flight
with sun and light WNW winds.
Raptor Observations:
Lots of raptors were on the move today, but with the lack of any clouds, they got up high. The majority of the Broad-winged Hawks after the morning push were detected well out over the Lake cutting the corner. Also, today was an excellent eagle day!
Non-raptor Observations:
Another large Black-capped Chickadee movement day. Passerine diversity is still rather low around the Hill at present.
Weather:
Very blue skies, fairly light SE winds, warm temperatures.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures tomorrow and more southerly winds. Also more clouds! Should be birds on the move and possibly a large number associated with the passage of the front in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A slow starter today, but a late day Broad-winged Hawk flight was quite enjoyable.
Non-raptor Observations:
An astonishing 500 migrating Black-capped Chickadees. Also 72 Northern Flickers.
Weather:
Mostly sunny skies with fairly light SE winds and mild temperatures.
Predictions:
Looks good again. Should be birds moving earlier than today given the number of late-moving birds this evening. Mostly sunny skies, warmer temps, and SE winds. Should be lots of raptors.
Raptor Observations:
Quite slow. Raptor of the day was an dark adult Red-tailed Hawk in the early afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Bank Swallow was mixed in with the thousands of Tree Swallows today.
Weather:
Cool temperatures, blue skies, and light NW winds.
Predictions:
Looks very good. Milder temperatures, fairly strong SE winds, and mostly sunny skies. I’d try to make it to the Hill.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a cleanup flight of high Broad-winged Hawks in the morning and then a lot of empty skies.
Weather:
Mostly cloudy skies with occasional snow showers. Fairly cold temperatures and a roaring WNW wind.
Predictions:
Sunny skies and fairly light NW winds tomorrow. It should be better than today.
Raptor Observations:
A nice steady trickle of migrants with good diversity early, a few rather slow hours in the middle of the day, and then a fairly substantial movement of birds just before the front passed. Most of the Turkey Vultures and Broad-winged Hawks that were counted passed in just a few minutes as the front arrived. An excellent falcon day with all three species seen. A banner day for Merlin; a new day high count of 14 was set along with a new season total!
Non-raptor Observations:
A few birds braved the rather strong winds to arrive at Derby this morning including FOY Brown Thrasher, Green Heron, Solitary Sandpiper, and Cliff Swallow. A small number of Yellow-rumped and Pine Warblers were also evident.
Weather:
Warm temperatures this morning with mostly cloudy skies. Strong south winds. At about 4:15 local time the cold front arrived and started blasting cold air from the west shortly followed by rain. Temps dropped from 23 C to 11 C in what felt like a matter of minutes.
Predictions:
A lot cooler tomorrow with strong west winds and mostly cloudy skies. I’m not expecting anything huge, but there will be some birds on the move.
Raptor Observations:
Another excellent day of movement. The strong SE winds for the most part
kept birds down low and off the lake. Notable was an excellent American
Kestrel flight.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s headliners were the first two Chimney Swifts of the season and an
early Eastern Kingbird.
Weather:
Rainy early this morning with gradual clearing and eventually mostly sunny
skies in the afternoon. Very strong SE winds. Warm temperatures.
Predictions:
Could be pretty good again tomorrow. Continued strong southerly winds but
with more clouds and precipitation at some point later in the day. Should
be more birds on the move.
Raptor Observations:
A slow start in the morning, but a nice movement of mostly Turkey Vultures and Broad-winged Hawks in the middle of the day.
Weather:
Lots of blue sky today with just a few small clouds in the afternoon. Mild temperatures and light NW winds.
Predictions:
Tomorrow sounds quite good. A chance of rain early, but some clearing as the day progresses. Warmer temps and strong SSE winds. There should be lots of birds.
Raptor Observations:
Another great day of migration. Raptors were on the move very early this
morning and before and after the rain showers. Another nice Sharp-shinned
Hawk showing with a similar assortment to yesterday. A leucistic Red-tailed
Hawk went past in the morning!
Non-raptor Observations:
The season’s first Chipping Sparrow was seen a few times around the North
Lookout.
Weather:
Strong southerly winds gradually shifting toward the west by the late afternoon. Warm temperatures. A couple of rain showers.
Predictions:
Tomorrow doesn’t figure to be great with winds out of the WNW. The early
end to the flight today means there probably won’t be a lot of birds in the
area to go through in the morning tomorrow. Of course, since it is
mid-April and there will be raptors moving, but it shouldn’t be anything
huge. Looking ahead, Thursday and Friday both look very promising.
Raptor Observations:
A very enjoyable day of raptor movement. The highlight was the Sharp-shinned Hawk flight that was low for most of the day. The first triple digit Broad-winged Hawk day of the season, and a nice showing by some late day American Kestrels.
Non-raptor Observations:
At least 75 species of bird detected today. Highlights included: A nice American Robin and blackbird flight in the early morning with the first Northern Flicker movement to speak of. Groups of Common Loons moving north often very high. Purple Finches on the move for the first time of the spring, as was a single Blue-gray Gnatcatcher that was probably moving east along the lakeshore with one of the flocks of migrating Black-capped Chickadees or White-breasted Nuthatches.
Weather:
Moderately strong ESE winds shifting to SE throughout the day with overcast skies early and blue skies by mid-afternoon. Fairly cold temps warmed up quite nicely reaching 19 C.
Predictions:
Still predicted to be fairly warm tomorrow with more clouds and a chance of rain. Strong SSW winds, though, so there should be birds on the move before, after, (and possibly during) any rain.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of Turkey Vultures with a few other migrants mixed in. Pretty slow in the afternoon.
Weather:
Surprisingly chilly down at the South Lookout today. Fairly strong WNW winds and partly cloudy skies.
Predictions:
Looks really good tomorrow. Warm temperatures, partly sunny, strong SE winds. That’s how we draw it up.
Raptor Observations:
A very nice day of movement, especially given the overcast skies. It seems that there were plenty of migrants ready to move after a few days of poor conditions. With the tailwind, birds got up high in a hurry which made the clouds quite nice for spotting. In total, 15 species of raptors were noted today including the first two Broad-winged Hawks of the year. Two dark Red-tailed Hawks – one adult and one juvenile – were also seen.
Weather:
Overcast conditions today with a few sprinkles of rain. Light southwesterly winds increasing in strength and shifting to the west in the afternoon. Cool temperatures.
Predictions:
Westerly winds tomorrow with gradual clearing throughout the day. Could be a nice flight. Looking further ahead, Monday looks excellent.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of mainly Osprey with a few other species sprinkled in as the precipitation lessened.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlights included two Bonaparte’s Gulls and one Great Egret.
Weather:
Heavy, steady rain delayed opening the count until mid-day. Scattered sprinkles for a few more hours in the afternoon until eventually the precipitation stopped and there was even a glimmer of sunlight just before the sun set. Cool temperatures. Strong ESE winds.
Predictions:
Tomorrow might be decent. WSW winds, less of a chance of rain. At the very least there should be some birds eager to move after the last three days no movement.
Weather:
Rain and sleet early, no precipitation for 20 minutes and then snow.
Predictions:
Could be a rainout.
Raptor Observations:
Almost no migrants, local Cooper’s Hawk displaying.
Non-raptor Observations:
Vesper and Savannah Sparrows around South Lookout, 8 migrant Great Blue Herons.
Weather:
Low overcast alternating with rain through the day.
Predictions:
Has the potential to be even worse than today.
Raptor Observations:
A little trickle of raptors until clearing occurred. Then a nice bit of movement for a few hours.
Weather:
Fog on the Hill today delayed opening the count. Light winds from the WNW.Mild temperatures. Overcast conditions giving way to some clearing in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Overcast, possibility of rain, NNE winds. Could be a few birds moving between showers.
Raptor Observations:
Slow until the sun started to peek out, then a trickle of birds for the remainder of the day.
Weather:
Perfectly calm early this morning with overcast conditions and fairly warm temperatures. A bit of lake breeze kicked in becoming moderately strong at times from the NE. Eventual clearing in the early afternoon.
Predictions:
West winds tomorrow with a possible shift to the SW. Should be at least some birds on the move.
Raptor Observations:
A fabulous day at the North Lookout. Raptors were flying early and the strong winds and overcast skies kept them low and slow, often right overhead. A nice steady flight developed throughout the morning and into the early afternoon when the brightening skies really opened the floodgates. A couple of huge hours of movement then occurred in the mid-afternoon with Turkey Vultures and Red-tailed Hawks sharing center stage. Raptors were low and high, cutting over the third field and over the Lake. Excellent diversity and numbers for most species by day’s end. The shift to west winds put a damper on the flight rather rapidly in the late afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations:
The morning flight was fully on from sunrise through the late morning with very large numbers of American Robins, blackbirds, Common Redpolls, and a smattering of lots of other species.
Weather:
Overcast conditions for much of the morning and early afternoon today with seemingly limitless visibility. Strong SSE winds and warm temperatures. In the afternoon, some clearing occurred as did a shift to SW and finally W winds. Warm temperatures.
Predictions:
At the very least there will be a nice cleanup flight after today’s event. I think it could be another good one, especially given the number of birds (TVs) that were counted to the west of us today.
Weather:
Wall-to-wall sunshine today with a few light clouds late. Light winds out of the northwest shifting to the east. Mild temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A burst of Turkey Vultures early in the morning, then relatively slow, then another burst of birds in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Mostly cloudy with a chance of rain. Strong southerly winds. Sounds pretty good for movement, especially if the rain holds off.
Raptor Observations:
Another nice Turkey Vulture flight on less-than-ideal winds. A smattering of other migrants.
Non-raptor Observations:
Two Wilson’s Snipe were my FOY from the Hill.
Weather:
Fairly cold temperatures today with strong WNW winds. Mostly sunny early with overcast conditions in the late afternoon.
Predictions:
Light northerly winds and sun early with a possible shift to winds out of the south. Could be interesting. I’d at least expect good numbers of Turkey Vultures.
Raptor Observations:
A nice day of movement dominated by Turkey Vultures. With the blue skies and SW winds birds got up high and out over the lake.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlights include two Sandhill Cranes, one Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and four Eastern Phoebes.
Weather:
Blue skies, seasonable temperatures, WSW winds.
Predictions:
WNW winds, fairly warm temperatures, and some sun tomorrow. At the very least there should be some birds around after today’s flight. Could be a nice South Lookout flight.
Raptor Observations:
Turkey Vultures were putting on a clinic today in high wind migratory tactics. Other than that, pretty slow.
Weather:
Cold temperatures, very strong WNW winds, partly sunny.
Prediction:
Looks good. Much warmer temperatures, sun, and SW winds. Sounds like hawks.
Observations
Very little moving between the wind and snow.
Weather
Unseasonably cold temperatures with very strong, biting NW winds. Some sun between bands of snow showers.
Predictions
Looks like one more day of similar winter-like conditions before things improve. I’d expect similar results to today.
Raptor Observations:
A cleanup flight for a few hours when the skies cleared the first time.
Some Turkey Vultures pushed along for an additional couple of hours, but
even they stopped moving in the afternoon. Probably too windy for much to move besides Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations:
Two Sandhill Cranes flew directly overhead at the South Lookout this
morning.
Weather:
A wild weather day today. Overcast with rain and snow showers early giving way to rapid clearing, then heavy overcast, then clearing again. Very strong west winds made observation difficult and uncomfortable.
Predictions:
Strong west winds and some snow showers. Possibly more Turkey Vultures on the move.
Raptor Observations:
A wonderful day of movement. Raptors were ready to move today after an
extended period with no southerly winds. Most birds were low due to the
strong winds and limited thermal development. Some Turkey Vultures and a few Buteos continued moving in the light rain for a bit, but eventually the precipitation put an end to the flight.
An excellent Red-shouldered Hawk flight with a nice diversity of species. Three Golden Eagles came through in rapid succession with the lead bird stalling to make sure his companions were still coming.
Non-raptor Observations:
Birds were on the move in a big way this morning. Good numbers of
blackbirds along with a very large American Robin movement occurred into late morning. Other species migrating in numbers included Eastern
Meadowlark, Tree Swallow, Great Blue Heron, Killdeer, and Eastern Bluebird. Common Redpolls (870) were also moving by in flocks throughout. Firsts of the spring included American Pipit, Pine Siskin, Cedar Waxwing, and Eastern Phoebe.
Weather:
Warmer temperatures today with overcast skies and southeast winds. Skies were fairly bright for the first few hours of the day. Winds strengthenedin the afternoon with a westward shift. Light rain late.
Predictions:
There are certainly raptors in the area after today’s large flight so some birds will move by tomorrow. Perhaps even a large Turkey Vulture movement on strong west winds?
Raptor Observations:
We didn’t quite make it to 1,000 birds today, but we still managed the best total of the season to date. Turkey Vultures started off strong but surprisingly petered off rather sharply. A decent Red-shouldered Hawk flight with many of the birds passing along a line between the North and South Lookouts.
Non-raptor Observations:
Highlights today included the first Eastern Meadowlark and Wild Turkeys of the season as well as three Sandhill Cranes. A Canada Goose movement was evident for much of the day, and an impressive blackbird flight occurred in the first few hours of the morning.
Weather:
Clear blue skies today from start to finish. Light winds becoming
moderately strong out of the NW and diminishing in the afternoon. Mild temperatures.
Predictions:
Tomorrow sounds promising. Mostly cloudy and strong SE winds before rain in the afternoon. Lets hope for some spots of sun and the rain holding off as long as possible. Could be a good one.
It also looks like there are at least some nocturnal migrants on the radar tonight so I would expect a few more passerines around in the morning, too.
Raptor Observations:
A bit stop-and-go raptor-wise today. Birds would be moving after the sun peeked through but then slow again during the overcast periods. Movement picked up in the late afternoon – a very encouraging sign. The first Osprey of the season was detected late in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations:
Six Sandhill Cranes (groups of 1,2, and 3) were the non-raptor highlights of the day.
Weather:
Heavy overcast this morning with a few short breaks of partly sunny skies mixed in throughout the day. Very light westerly winds shifting and strengthening out of the NW as the day wore on. Late in the afternoon winds died off considerably. Seasonable temperatures.
Predictions:
First 1000+ day of the season tomorrow.
Raptor Observations:
Less movement than the last two days.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlights include a Sandhill Crane, the first northbound Common Loon of the spring, and two Tree Swallows.
Weather:
Seasonable temperatures with fairly strong WNW winds and mostly cloudy skies.
Predictions:
West winds tomorrow with mostly cloudy skies and a chance of precipitation. Perhaps the shift to more out of the west will push a few more birds along.
Raptor Observations:
Mostly TV’s.
Non-raptor Observations:
8800 Snow Geese (slowing down) and 35 Bohemian Waxwings.
Weather:
8-12 mph WNW winds through the day, varying cloudiness with temps from 1-5˚C.
Predictions:
A few light snow showers and NW winds. At this time of year there will be birds unless the weather is absolutely horrible. (4º C. and 10 mph NW wind is not absolutely horrible).
Raptor Observations:
The first Black Vulture of the season was seen at 10:56 AM (EST), otherwise mostly Turkey Vultures today. At least everything was low.
Non-raptor Observations:
28,100 Snow Geese with half the total in the first hour.
Weather:
Cloudy skies gave way to clear blue skies in the afternoon, light N wind early became NW at 10 in the afternoon. Temperature ranged from 1-7˚C.
Predictions:
Wednesday looks to be slightly cooler than today but if the predicted WNW wind holds hawks may be on the move near the south lookout.
Raptor Observations:
Still lacking diversity, the flight was once again dominated by Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations:
At least two Ross’s Geese were seen today from the South Lookout. Other highlights include two Tree Swallows, ten migrant Great Blue Herons, and 23 Killdeer.
Weather:
Cool temperatures today with mostly cloudy skies. Calm conditions early with winds strengthening out of the northeast shifting to the northwest.
Predictions:
Partly cloudy with NW winds and temperatures around 40.
Raptor Observations:
The flight still lacked diversity, but a steady flow of Turkey Vultures
today with a few Red-tails mixed in. An immature Northern Goshawk buzzed by
a group of onlookers in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations:
A wonderful Snow Goose flight in the morning and again in the late
afternoon into the evening with over 30,000 counted. A single Ross’s Goose
was picked out of a small westbound group in the afternoon.
Also, yesterday I forgot to mention that a Fox Sparrow was under the
feeder – my first of the spring.
Weather:
A bit more seasonable today at the South Lookout with lighter winds albeit
still out of the NW. Overcast early with mostly sunny skies for the majority of the count.
Predictions:
The increase in Turkey Vulture movement late this afternoon bodes well for
a nice flight tomorrow as do warmish temperatures, light winds, and some
sun.
Raptor Observations:
Hard pressed to find anything moving today except Turkey Vultures.
Weather:
Fairly cold temperatures today with mostly sunny skies and a strong WNW wind.
Predictions:
About the same temperature tomorrow with some sun and lighter NW winds.Sounds like more Turkey Vultures and hopefully a bit more diversity.
Raptor Observations:
Just a few Turkey Vultures floating past the South Lookout today. The Northern Goshawk was an adult that blasted over the first treeline to the north of the South Lookout.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlight was a Greater White-fronted Goose that went by heading west in the morning with a small group of Canada Geese.
Weather:
Cold temperatures again today with strong WNW winds and overcast conditions. Occasional snow showers.
Predictions:
Overcast with some snow showers tomorrow, cold temperatures, and fairly strong WNW winds. Should be similar to today.
Weather:A few bands of light snow this morning with sun and partly clear skies for the rest of the day. Fairly strong winds out of the SW. Cold temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
Not much diversity in today’s flight which featured a trickle of Turkey Vultures throughout.
Predictions:
Overcast conditions, strong WNW winds, chance of snow. Sounds like a cold one at the South Lookout.
Weather:
Heavy snow early this morning with very limited visibility. The snow showers eventually tapered off leaving partly sunny skies and some wind-blown snow. Winds were very strong out of the southwest shifting to west in the afternoon. Cold temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A few birds again today moving in between snow showers and for awhile after the snow stopped. The strengthening wind and shift to the west seemed to put an end to any movement as visible from the North Lookout, so I sat in the truck for a few hours at the South Lookout to see if anything was going by there. I never re-opened the count because it was rather clear that other than the flood of Ring-billed Gulls heading into the wind there wasn’t anything moving.
Predictions:
More snow is predicted overnight and into tomorrow. The day sounds like acarbon copy of today with winds out of the SW becoming W. One of the first lessons a hawkwatcher learns is that no two days are ever the same, but I’d expect tomorrow to be similar to today.
Weather: Snow showers delayed opening the count this morning. The precipitation decreased for a few hours and then another band went through in the afternoon. Cool temperatures and fairly strong winds out of the southeast shifting to (and howling out of) the west.
Raptor Observations:
A few raptors moving during the clearer periods of the day. A couple of the
Golden Eagles were detected during some fairly heavy snow showers!
Non-raptor Observations:
Gerry Smith reported a Tree Swallow moving past this morning.
Predictions:
Strong WSW winds and snow tomorrow. Perhaps a Golden Eagle or two will try
to sneak by again in the snow!
Weather: Quite cold this morning with some eventual warming. Strong southeast winds and overcast skies.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of raptors again today. Two local Cooper’s Hawks were displaying
out in front of the Hill.
Predictions:
Snow and rain showers tomorrow with southerly winds. Doesn’t look too good.
Weather: Cold temperatures today with strong NW winds and partly cloudy skies clearing in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Temperatures are forecast to be a bit warmer tomorrow with winds out of the ESE. I would think that would convince a few more raptors to move than have moved in the past few days. At least until it starts to snow!
Report submitted by Steve Kolbe (kolbesr@gmail.com)
Non-raptor Observations: Snow Geese were re-thinking the (early this week) move north as thousands were noted heading back to the southwest and unfrozen waters. Virtually no non-raptor migrants this morning with more blackbirds, robins, and crows heading west than east. Brrr!
Weather:
Cold temperatures, light winds early eventually strengthening out of the NW, mostly overcast with a few breaks of sun.
Predictions: We might see a few raptors on the move tomorrow with NW winds and a bit of sun. Maybe some more Turkey Vultures? 
Weather: Fairly strong SW winds shifting to W. Chilly temps and partly cloudy skies becoming overcast. Snow showers started in the early afternoon and were off-and-on for the rest of the day.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a flight before the snow showers shut it down. Raptors were fairly high on the west winds.
Non-raptor Observations:
Today’s highlights include one Tree Swallow and two Rusty Blackbirds.
Predictions:
Tomorrow doesn’t sound so hot. Snow showers and a howling NW wind. I wouldn’t expect too much.
Report submitted by Steve Kolbe (kolbesr@gmail.com)
Weather: Rainy conditions this morning prevented counting for the first few hours of the day. Skies were overcast for the remainder. Calm conditions for the majority of the day with a sudden increase in wind speed out of the west during the late afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
Raptors were only trickling through today until conditions improved and then a small flight developed for a few hours. Counting was conducted from the North Lookout until 1500 when the wind shifted and prompted a move to the South Lookout for the last few hours.
Non-raptor Observations:
The story of the day was the Snow Goose flight! Small and medium-sized flocks were moving during gaps in the rain all morning, and eventually monstrous flocks started making their way east in the afternoon. When all was said and done, 110,000 Snow Geese were counted today! Especially impressive was the 62,000 birds that were counted in the final two hours of the day from the South Lookout.
I am confident that my day count of 110,000 is quite conservative; I think many more probably moved through the region today. Suffice it to say that six figures worth of Snow Geese were seen today, and it was awesome.
Not much else was notable today except seven Tundra Swans and a few Wood Ducks.
Predictions:
Overcast tomorrow with rain and/or snow likely. WSW winds. Might be a few birds moving if it isn’t raining too much.
Report submitted by Steve Kolbe (kolbesr@gmail.com)
Raptor Observations:
A nice flight. The overcast conditions probably put a damper on things; the flight was skewed toward those taxa that do not mind using powered flightas a means of covering ground. As such, Northern Harriers and Rough-leggedHawks came through in good numbers.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Snow Goose flight was going early, with over 16000 counted mostly in thefirst two hours after sunrise. Other notable waterfowl included a group of seven Wood Ducks dropping into the recently ice-free creek at dusk, sevenGreen-winged Teal flying over the Lake, and a group of 43 Tundra Swans that put down below the bluff and rested awhile before continuing on their way.
Killdeer again were moving in good numbers with 34 tallied. An eastbound Great Blue Heron in the late afternoon was my first of the spring, as was a Tree Swallow in the morning.
Blackbirds were flowing both in the morning and evening. Thousands of Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, and European Starlings were joined by hundreds of American Robins.
Predictions:
Winds out of the W or WSW tomorrow with cloudy skies and rain. Not sure exactly. Might be some birds sneaking through between rain showers.
Report submitted by Steve Kolbe (kolbesr@gmail.com)
onondagaaudubon.com 