Below are daily charts and field notes from the 2014 Hawk-count season, as submitted by Steve Kolbe and Bill Purcell.
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A report from Bill Purcell on August 11, 2014
On south winds in the middle of August there was a very nice dispersal flight of juvenile raptors at Derby Hill today. All of the Bald Eagles, Broad-wings and Red-tails, the bulk of the flight, were juveniles. Raptors from 10:45 AM through 2:00 PM:
Turkey Vulture 14
Osprey 1
Sharp-shinned Hawk 1
Bald Eagle 46
Broad-winged Hawk 589
Red-tailed Hawk 90
American Kestrel 3
Monday, June 2 Weather:
We started warm and ended quite hot as the south winds held through the day. A little too much blue sky.
Raptor Observations:
The expected BE’s, TV’s & young BW’s
Friday, May 30 Weather:
Mostly sunny skies, light lake breeze, warm temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A few raptors here and there today.
Predictions:
The final day of the season will feature lots of clear sky, north winds,
and mild temperatures. Should be a lot like today.
Thursday, May 29 Weather:
A cool morning due to overcast conditions and fairly strong SE winds.
Eventually, the winds cut off and the sun came out warming things up in a
hurry. A lake breeze started up in the early afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A promising start to the day but the lake breeze quickly put the kibosh on
the flight.
Non-raptor Observations:
Flyby Horned Lark and Upland Sandpiper both seemed a bit strange for the
date. 20 plus Eastern Bluebirds, 200 plus Brant.
Predictions:
Likely will be rather slow. WNW winds, mild temperatures, partly cloudy
skies.
Tuesday, May 27 Weather:
Lake-influenced breeze all day. Mostly cloudy early giving way to mostly sunny by mid day.
Raptor Observations:
Broad-wings up early but little else.
Predictions:
North winds predicted and that doesn’t do much to push young Broad-wings and Bald Eagles who have no place to get to.
Monday, May 26 Weather:
Mostly sunny today with warm temperatures and strong WNW winds.
Raptor Observations:
A decent flight that passed the South Lookout in dribs and drabs.
Non-raptor Observations:
1500 Brant this morning along with a few hundred shorebirds. A Red-headed Woodpecker was hanging around the green-roofed house this afternoon.
Predictions:
Could be decent again. WSW winds, warm temperatures, mostly cloudy skies.
Sunday, May 25 Weather:
Clear skies early with mostly cloudy conditions later. Moderately strong NW
winds and mild temperatures.
Non-raptor Observations:
A low Sandhill Crane passed by the North Lookout this morning as did two
more Orchard Orioles.
Predictions:
Could be decent tomorrow with WSW winds and warm temperatures. Be prepared
for high birds, however!
Saturday, May 24 Weather:
Foggy early today eventually giving way to mostly clear skies. Moderate NW winds and mild temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of immature Broad-winged Hawk movement.
Predictions:
Could be decent. Warm temperatures, WSW winds, mostly clear.
Wednesday, May 21 Weather:
Partly sunny, warm temperatures, southerly winds.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a high flight today.
Non-raptor Observations:
Morning flight highlights included Hooded and Cerulean Warblers. A large (500+) flock of Brant flew past in the afternoon.
Predictions:
Could be OK if it isn’t raining. SE winds, a bit cooler, mostly cloudy.
Tuesday, May 20 Weather:
Fairly warm temperatures, mostly clear skies, and a light lake breeze.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of birds again today.
Non-raptor Observations:
An adult male Orchard Oriole and another Red-headed Woodpecker were
highlights.
Predictions:
Could be good. SE winds, overcast, and rain in the afternoon. Hopefully
something will be moving in front of it!
Sunday, May 18 Weather:
Cool temperatures, light NW winds, clear skies.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of birds.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Clay-colored Sparrow hung out at the North Lookout all day. An adult Red-headed Woodpecker flew by this morning.
Predictions:
Light westerly winds, a bit warmer, mostly sunny. Could be OK.
Thursday, May 15 Weather:
Warm temperatures today with strong SSE winds and partly cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a flight, but not a big one like we had hoped.
Non-raptor Observations:
One Sandhill Crane around noon. A dozen or so Common Nighthawks in the
evening.
Predictions:
Looks like a rain out.
Wednesday, May 14 Weather:
Warm temperatures, partly cloudy skies, light SE winds giving way to Lake breeze in the mid afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A nice flight of Broad-winged Hawks and Turkey Vultures with good numbers of Osprey and Bald Eagles. Just after raptors started to lift off this morning, a Swallow-tailed Kite appeared on the horizon! The bird proceeded to make its way over the third field and eventually was seen from the bluff as it make the turn and headed north along the eastern shore of the Lake. What a beautiful bird!
Non-raptor Observations:
A pretty nice morning flight highlighted by Orchard Oriole, Bay-breasted Warbler, and multiple Cape May Warblers. A Sandhill Crane passed in the late morning.
Predictions:
Should be quite good. SE winds, warm temperatures, some clouds.
Monday, May 12 Weather:
Blue skies, warm temperatures, lake breeze.
Raptor Observations:
Virtually nothing moving.
Non-raptor Observations:
Prairie, Golden-winged, Canada, Wilson’s Warblers as highlights along with an adult male Orchard Oriole.
Predictions:
SE winds, mostly cloudy, warm, chance of rain. Could be good especially if the rain holds off.
Sunday, May 11 Weather:
Blue sky most of the day, west wind overridden by the lake breeze.
Raptor Observations:
Not much. A low and slow Peregrine was the highlight.
Non-raptor Observations:
Cape May Warblers, Canada Warbler and 2 Red-headed Woodpeckers. Heard a Golden-winged Warbler-type song but never saw the bird.
Predictions:
Probably another slow day with light NW winds.
Saturday, May 10 Weather:
Light SW winds shifting to W and then NW. Mostly sunny skies and mild temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A nice cleanup flight of Turkey Vultures and Broad-winged Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
Orange-crowned, Prairie, and an very cooperative Prothonotary headlined today. Also one Red-headed Woodpecker and two Great Egrets.
Predictions:
Light W winds and sun tomorrow. Should be a few birds moving.
Friday, May 9 Weather:
Warm temperatures, partly to mostly sunny skies, moderate SE winds.
Raptor Observations:
An excellent early May flight! Big numbers of Osprey and Bald Eagles (new day record set for Bald Eagle). Seven Golden Eagles! Nice numbers of Broad-winged and Sharp-shinned Hawks as well.
Non-raptor Observations:
A very large morning flight highlighted by hundreds of Baltimore Orioles, good warbler diversity (at least 18 species) and a scattering of lots of species. Notable were two Lapland Longspurs, seven Orchard Orioles, and five Sandhill Cranes.
Predictions:
SW winds are good, as is the fact that we had a major flight today. There should be birds around for the Bird Festival tomorrow during any non-rain hours.
Thursday, May 8 Weather:
Mostly sunny skies, warm temperatures, and light south winds until the lake breeze set in.
Raptor Observations:
A nice flight for a few hours.
Non-raptor Observations:
A very enjoyable morning flight today with good numbers of Baltimore
Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and a few Scarlet Tanagers. Firsts for me included Orchard Oriole, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Yellow-throated Vireo, Least Flycatcher, Blue-winged Warbler, Indigo Bunting, and White-crowned Sparrow.
Predictions:
Should be good. SE winds, partly cloudy skies, chance of rain.
Wednesday, May 7 Weather:
Mostly sunny today with light winds off the Lake and cold temperatures that warmed up nicely.
Raptor Observations:
A very slow trickle.
Non-raptor Observations:
A few Baltimore Orioles flew past this morning along with an adult
Red-headed Woodpecker.
Predictions:
Light ESE winds, warm temperatures, and mostly cloudy skies. Could be good.
Tuesday, May 6 Weather:
Mild temperatures, light northerly winds, clear skies.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of raptors today, but nice diversity.
Non-raptor Observations:
A few hundred Bobolinks flying past this morning.
Predictions:
Light northerly winds with increasing clouds and mild temperatures. Should
be similar to today.
Monday, May 5 Weather:
Blue skies, mild temperatures, moderate NW winds.
Raptor Observations:
A steady trickle of raptors.
Non-raptor Observations:
Had my first Baltimore Oriole of the season today.
Predictions:
Clear, NW winds, mild temperatures. Should be similar to today.
Sunday, May 4 Weather:
Scattered sprinkles throughout the morning. Very strong W winds and mostly cloudy skies. Cool temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A few birds moving between sprinkles. A wing tagged Turkey Vulture flew past in the early afternoon.
Predictions:
NW winds, sunny skies, mild temperatures. Should be better than the last few days.
Saturday, May 3 Weather:
Mild temperatures, light SW winds, overcast with a few sunny periods.
Numerous light rain showers throughout the day.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of very high birds today. A slow start due to heavy overcast, and the constant interruptions of rain never seemed to allow the flight to get going in earnest. Nice looks at a low Golden Eagle.
Non-raptor Observations:
Firsts of the year included Wood Thrush, Bobolink, Rose-breasted Grosbeak. 180 migrant Blue Jays.
Predictions:
Strong W winds tomorrow with chance of rain and cool temperatures. I’m
having a hard time making heads or tails out of this weather, but I’m not expecting a huge raptor flight.
Friday, May 2 Weather:
WSW to W all day, mostly cloudy with some drizzle and a few sunny periods.
Raptor Observations:
Mostly Broad-wings today but a little frustrating trying to find them as they shot over us on the tail winds.
Non-raptor Observations:
25 Common Loons, Yellow Warblers, Palm & Black-throated Blue Warblers, White-crowned Sparrow
Predictions:
Supposed to be SW wind with some rain, much like today.
Thursday, May 1 Weather:
Cloudy most of the day with occasional light rain, winds started light SE but were SW-WSW most of the day.
Raptor Observations:
A nice Broad-winged flight but spread out with more flying beyond sight well to our south on the westerly winds.
Non-raptor Observations:
The first day with warblers, mostly Yellow-rumpeds, distributed throughout the hedgerows.
Predictions:
Hard to judge, there will be some rain but there should be birds when it’s not precipitating.
Wednesday, April 30 Weather:
Very strong winds out of the SE again today with overcast skies and rain
after noon.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of low-and-slow raptors like yesterday. Great looks at a few
Merlin and an immature Peregrine Falcon.
Predictions:
SW winds going to W tomorrow with partly cloudy skies and a chance of rain
throughout the day. Doesn’t sound horrible; there should be birds.
Tuesday, April 29 Weather:
Very strong ESE winds with mostly cloudy skies becoming overcast. Mild temperatures. Steady light rain starting in the late morning.
Raptor Observations:
A very nice low-and-slow flight before the rain arrived. A good showing by Osprey, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and American Kestrels.
Non-raptor Observations:
Firsts for me were Eastern Kingbird, Northern Waterthrush, and Solitary Sandpiper.
Predictions:
Very strong SE winds and rain. It looks like there might be a few breaks in the precipitation, so maybe we’ll get lucky and have birds moving during those periods.
Monday, April 28 Weather:
Light northerly winds today with partly cloudy skies clearing late and mild temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A very nice cleanup flight of low Broad-winged Hawks for a few hours before the flight dissipated and/or moved inland. Then just a trickle of birds.
Non-raptor Observations:
One Chimney Swift. An Upland Sandpiper was hanging out in the back field for much of the afternoon.
Predictions:
Strong SE winds, mostly cloudy, mild temperatures. Could be good especially the more time we get before precipitation arrives.
Sunday, April 27 Weather:
Cool temperatures, moderate NW winds, mostly cloudy with a few breaks of sun.
Raptor Observations:
A very nice flight of low BWs that were passing low to the north, south, and over the South Lookout. Also the third Black Vulture of the season.
Predictions:
Sun, warmer temperatures, light N winds. I don’t see why it won’t be good. At the very least there should be a cleanup flight from today.
Saturday, April 26 Weather:
Mostly overcast with a few patches of sun. Cool temperatures, fairly light WNW winds. Rain put an end to things in the early afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A few pushes of Broad-winged Hawks when the sun peeked out. Nice looks at soaring Peregrine Falcon and Northern Goshawk.
Predictions:
Mild temperatures, NW winds, increasing blue skies tomorrow. It’s clear that raptors want to go, so there should be birds especially with sun out.
Friday, April 25 Weather:
Fairly strong ESE for most of the day with eventual warming. Clear skies
for a bit in the middle of the day with overcast early and late.
Raptor Observations:
A slow starter this morning that eventually turned into a very enjoyable
flight. Birds got up and out over the Lake during the blue sky period, but were nice and low when the clouds returned.
Non-raptor Observations:
Five Sandhill Cranes (1,1,3), one Great Egret. A large swallow movement
dominated by Tree and Barn but with all expected species involved occurred in the last few hours of the day.
Predictions:
Westerly winds, cool temperatures, clouds. Should be birds wanting to move after today’s flight. Let’s hope the precipitation holds off.
Thursday, April 24 Weather:
Fairly strong NW winds today with blue skies and chilly temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of movement in the middle of the day today. Mostly BWs.
Predictions:
Should be better than the past few days. ESE winds, warmer temperatures
(eventually), partly cloudy skies.
Wednesday, April 23 Weather:
Cold, overcast, strong NW winds. A few sprinkles.
Predictions:
Cool, NW winds but sun should get a few more hawks moving than today.
Tuesday April 22 Weather:
Drizzle early then rain through early afternoon. Fog followed, but eventually blew away. Some patches of sun in the late afternoon. Light southerly winds shifting to W and strengthening.
Raptor Observations:
A brief but intense burst of birds immediately after the fog disappeared and the sun peaked out.
Non-raptor Observations:
Black-and-white, Palm, Pine, and Yellow-rumped Warblers around today. Also quite a few Ruby-crowned Kinglets and White-throated Sparrows.
Predictions:
Strong NW winds, cool temperatures, clearing in the afternoon. Probably won’t be huge.
Monday, April 21 Weather:
Warm temperatures today with cloudy skies early and mostly clear skies later. Light SE winds that gave way to a lake breeze in the early afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A nice liftoff of Broad-wings this morning followed by a high flight. The lake breeze knocked birds down and inland for a nice few hours of watching at the south lookout before the flight disappeared (presumably inland). Nice diversity.
Non-raptor Observations:
First Chimney Swift of the season today. Another 80 Northern Flickers, a few Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Yellow-rumped and Pine Warblers flying by.
Predictions:
Southerly winds until the front passes tomorrow which will bring rain and winds shifting to W. Looks like the timing of the precipitation might put a damper on the chance of a flight.
Sunday, April 20 Weather:
Lots of blue sky today with some thin clouds. Cool temperatures early
increased quickly. Light SE winds that played tug of war with the lake
breeze in the afternoon but never quite gave in. Some nasty shimmer during this period.
Raptor Observations:
Lots of birds on the move, but the vast majority were up and out over the Lake.
Non-raptor Observations:
125 Northern Flickers. Bonaparte’s Gull flycatching overhead.
Predictions:
Light SE winds, a few more clouds, warm temperatures. I don’t see any
reason why it won’t be good.
Saturday, April 19 Weather:
Cold and overcast early. Eventual clearing and a bit of warming. Light NW
winds.
Raptor Observations:
The overcast conditions combined with cold temperatures didn’t facilitates
much movemgent until the afternoon. Then just a few birds decided to move.
Predictions:
Warmer temperatures, SE winds, mostly sunny. Should be good.
Friday, April 18 Weather:
Fairly strong SE winds, cool temperatures that eventually warmed up, and
partly cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a high flight today. The four Golden Eagles were nice.
Non-raptor Observations:
Sandhill Crane, 50 Northern Flickers, a few migrants this morning but
mostly blackbirds.
Predictions:
Light NW winds tomorrow, cool temps, mostly sunny. Not expecting a huge
flight, but there certainly will be birds.
Thursday, April 17 Weather:
Cold temperatures early warmed up eventually. Strong SE winds. Mostly
clear.
Raptor Observations:
A strange flight today started off slow and got then got out over the
water.
Predictions:
Strong SE winds, partly cloudy, bit warmer. Should be good.
Wednesday, April 16 Weather:
Cold temperatures, moderate NW winds, blue skies, wicked shimmer.
Raptor Observations:
Very slow today.
Predictions:
Mostly sunny, SE winds, cold early but warming up nicely. After two off
days, there should be birds wanting to move. Should be good. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=675063&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.G0UkW2UY.dpuf
Monday, April 14 Weather:
Strong S winds shifting to SW, warm temperatures, and mostly cloudy skies. Rain in the late afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A nice low steady flight today. Good numbers of Sharp-shinned and
Broad-winged Hawks. The second Black Vulture of the season passed this morning.
Non-raptor Observations:
215 more Northern Flickers today. Also one Sandhill Crane, Brown Thrasher, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher.
Predictions:
Lots of precipitation tomorrow with NW winds and dropping temperatures. Does not sound great.
Sunday, April 13 Weather:
Very warm and sunny with SE to SW winds most of the day. A strange wind
shift to NW, N and finally E late in the day seemed to have no effect on
the birds
Non-raptor Observations:
Lots of migrants with 1356 N. Flickers by the time I left the watch. Also
30+ Pine Warblers, lots of Yellow-rumps and a Palm plus the FOS Cliff
Swallow.
Predictions:
South winds again should be good unless there’s too much rain.
Saturday, April 12 Weather:
Light south winds shifted early to a moderate lake breeze. Mostly sunny and comfortable.
Predictions:
Warm and southerly winds but some precipitation predicted for the morning.
– See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=671199&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.JtOh0d5k.dpuf
Friday, April 11 Weather:
Sunny skies early and late with some fairly dark clouds midday. Mild
temperatures. Very light NW winds.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a flight in the morning and after the sun peaked out.
Non-raptor Observations:
160 Northern Flickers past the north lookout this morning.
Predictions:
Warm, light winds, sun. Should be birds moving. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=670426&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.JZUgRK57.dpuf
Thursday, April 10 Weather:
Sunny early, light clouds in the middle of the day, then blue skies in the
afternoon with late clouds. Chilly temps at sunrise ramped up in a hurry,
especially after the sun came out. Strong SE winds becoming SW and even
stronger.
Raptor Observations:
A big flight today! Birds were all over the place. A nice Sharp-shinned and
Red-tailed Hawk flight. And let’s not forget those Turkey Vultures –
today’s flight pushed us over the SEASON Turkey Vulture record (set last
season). It’ll be interesting to see just how much distance we can put
between the two numbers from now until the end of May. Today also featured
the first Broad-winged Hawks of the season. Finally, two interesting
Red-tailed Hawks were seen today: a dark adult and an all-too-briefly seen
leucistic adult.
Non-raptor Observations:
Four Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers flew by this morning along with lots of
American Robins and blackbirds (more Rusties starting to mix in now). Had
my first Chipping Sparrow.
Predictions:
Light winds out of the W and sun tomorrow. Should be a clean up flight from
today and I don’t see why there won’t be another decent flight after that.
– See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=669397&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.Zf3WCqkZ.dpuf
Wednesday, April 9 Weather:
Cool temperatures, moderate NW winds shifting to W in the afternoon and
decreasing in strength. Blue skies throughout.
Raptor Observations:
Another big South Lookout flight. Mainly Turkey Vultures and Red-tailed
Hawks with a smattering of other species.
Non-raptor Observations:
A few Common Loons heading north.
Predictions:
Warm temperatures are predicted tomorrow with strong S winds going to SW
and partly cloudy skies. Sounds like it should be really good. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=668581&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.wu5Cfp2Q.dpuf
Tuesday, April 8 Weather:
A few rain showers throughout the day put a damper on things. Mild
temperatures early becoming colder as the day progressed. SE winds shifting
to W and becoming quite strong.
Raptor Observations:
A nice Turkey Vulture clean up flight but then not much.
Predictions:
Chilly, NW winds. Probably won’t be huge, but there certainly will be some
sort of TV flight, possibly Red-tails. Thursday looks good.
– See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=667793&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.fs6OHe2z.dpuf
Monday, April 7 Weather:
Sunny skies in the early morning with increasingly heavy clouds throughout the day. Mild temperatures. Fairly strong SE winds.
Raptor Observations:
A nice steady flight with a push at the end ahead of the precipitation.
Turkey Vultures dominated along with the first decent Sharp-shinned Hawk
flight of the season. Other highlights were two very close passes by Golden Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations:
A nice morning flight of blackbirds, American Robins, 50 Northern Flickers,and a few Savannah Sparrows. A bit of a Purple Finch flight as well. A Carolina Wren was singing from the North Lookout in the early morning. FOYs included Barn Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Vesper Sparrow, Field Sparrow, and American Pipit.
Predictions:
Fairly strong S winds going to W with clouds and scattered rain. Probably
will be a few birds moving between showers. Come on Harriers! – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=666981&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.sq2pR8TU.dpuf
Sunday, April 6 Weather:
Blue skies, seasonable temperatures, and light WNW winds.
Raptor Observations:
A nice south lookout flight. Lots of Turkey Vultures and Red-tailed Hawks
with a smattering of other species.
Predictions:
Should be a good one. SE winds, warm temps, and partly cloudy skies ahead
of precipitation in the late afternoon. That’s how we draw them up. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=666009&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.2XWGRRUz.dpuf
Saturday, April 5 Weather:
Strong west winds all day, 20 mph and more. A little rain and snow in the
morning becoming partly sunny in the afternoon. Temperatures hovering
around 0º C.
Raptor Observations:
Mostly TV’s but our first Black Vulture of the year, thanks Andy!
Non-raptor Observations:
FOS Purple Martin, 30+ Bonaparte’s Gulls, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull and 2 Forster’s Terns (which are thought to be record early).
Predictions:
Sunday will be a more comfortable day with diminished winds and warmer
temps. There should be some birds moving. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=664842&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.6pugQgzk.dpuf
Friday, April4 Weather:
Overcast skies, strong SE winds, and chilly temperatures. Rain starting in
the middle of the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
Mostly Turkey Vultures with a smattering of other hawks. Nice looks at
low-and-slow birds struggling into the SE winds.
Non-raptor Observations:
One Great Egret.
Predictions:
Strong W winds, partly cloudy skies, and cooler temps. Probably will be
some birds (especially TVs) riding the tail wind. Bundle up!
– See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=663927&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.c7nH9Ce2.dpuf
Thursday, April 3 Weather:
Blue skies early with eventual clouding. Light NW winds, cool temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A steady but not heavy flight for most of the count. Some very nice
prolonged looks at soaring raptors overhead.
Non-raptor Observations:
Five Sandhill Cranes, one Common Loon.
Predictions:
Strong SE winds, overcast skies, mild temps, and scattered rain. Something exciting usually happens at the North Lookout on days like that, but that something may or may not have to do with raptors. But I suspect it could be a good day. How’s that for a prediction? – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=663153&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.OFiqAwFg.dpuf
Wednesday, April 2 Weather:
Overcast early with rapid clearing in the late morning. Light WNW winds.
Seasonable temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
Wow! A new day record for Turkey Vultures, and set from the South Lookout
to boot! Some seriously impressive groups of Turkey Vultures for much of
the day often right overhead. Nice numbers of many other species as well.
Apparently birds were ready to go!
Non-raptor Observations:
Nine Sandhill Cranes, two Common Loons, 18 species of ducks out on the Lake
this morning.
Predictions:
Certainly will be a clean-up flight from today. Light NW and sun could
produce another flight tomorrow. Bring on the TVs! – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=662262&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.6jCSqOKr.dpuf
Tuesday, April 1 Weather:
Blue skies early and late but light overcast for the majority of the day. Light SE winds that strengthened a bit in the afternoon. Seasonable
temperatures.
Raptor Observations:
A wonderful flight! Great looks at lots of low and slow raptors and TVs. Highlights included an impressive burst of Rough-legged Hawks and
Red-shouldered Hawks and a juvenile Northern Goshawk that ripped past
nearly at eye level.
Non-raptor Observations:
A massive morning flight of American Robins and blackbirds, 70 Mourning
Doves, hundreds of Cedar Waxwings, 25 Eastern Meadowlarks, 75 Killdeer,
etc. Also 4500 Canada Geese (4 Cackling) and 20,000 Snow Geese.
Predictions:
West winds, sunny, a bit cooler. Should be lots of TVs. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=661193&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.iec7z1V8.dpuf
Monday, March 31 Weather:
Cool temperatures, blue skies, and moderate NW winds.
Raptor Observations:
A very enjoyable South Lookout flight! Turkey Vulture numbers ramped up as
the day progressed. Nice looks at some Red-shouldered and Rough-legged
Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
Both Snow and Canada Geese on the move this morning and (especially)
evening.
Predictions:
Mostly sunny, SE winds, warm temps. All the pieces seem to be in place for
a big flight! – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=660264&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.B4BERmW5.dpuf
Sunday, March 30 Weather:
Quite cold, strong NE winds, and overcast skies.
Raptor Observations:
Turkey Vultures braving the strong NE were taking a ludicrous amount of
time to make any progress at all.
Predictions:
Fairly light NW winds and clearing as the day progresses. Could be a nice
Turkey Vulture flight from the south lookout.
– See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=659186&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.BMv5yCfD.dpuf
Saturday, March 29 Weather:
Calm, sunny and almost warm to start but NE wind picked up and clouds
overtook us for most of the day.
Raptor Observations:
FOS Osprey.
Non-raptor Observations:
Snow Geese for most of the day: 83,600 total. One and possibly 2 Ross’s
Geese photographed. FOS Eastern Phoebe.
Predictions:
North winds and wet. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=658326&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.McnGpVpP.dpuf
Friday, March 28 Weather:
Warmer today with fairly strong SE winds, overcast skies, and scattered
showers throughout.
Raptor Observations:
Awesome views of Northern Harriers and a smattering of other migrants
today. Many of the Rough-legs were low over the Lake following the ice
edge.
Non-raptor Observations:
Big time blackbird and American Robin flight throughout the morning and
early afternoon. An excellent count of 83 migrating Great Blue Herons. Also
19700 Snow Geese. Spring is here!
Predictions:
Fairly light NE winds, warmish temps, and some sun. Sounds like Turkey
Vulture and Red-shoulder weather to me. Also perhaps a big Snow Goose
flight? – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=657788&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.vniLYWUb.dpuf
Thursday, March 27 Weather:
Cold early with a bit of warming late. Light southerly winds. Overcast for
most of the day.
Raptor Observations:
A disappointing day given the conditions. I guess the flight never got
going after the sun disappeared early in the morning.
Predictions:
Strong S winds, warmer temps, but a whole lot of precipitation. Probably
won’t be much due to the rain. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=657049&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.ALBCjHik.dpuf
Tuesday, March 25 Weather:
Very cold early warming up a bit in the middle of the day. Light winds
increasing out of the WSW. Partly cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
A nice day of movement! Birds got up high with the sun and tailwinds. The
first decent push of Turkey Vultures of the season.
Non-raptor Observations:
Despite the bitter conditions, a decent morning flight featured American
Robins and male Red-winged Blackbirds.
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17600394
Predictions:
Tomorrow does not sound great. Cold temperatures, strong NW winds, and
partly sunny skies. I’m sure there will be some (perhaps a decent number?)
Turkey Vultures on the move, but I can’t imagine much else moving in any
numbers.
Thursday looks good. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=654474&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.3fNET92y.dpuf
Monday, March 24 Weather:
Cold, NW winds, mostly cloudy.
Raptor Observations:
Slow again.
Non-raptor Observations:
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17586587
Predictions:
Sounds better tomorrow. A cold start, but warming up a bit more than it has
for a few days. Partly sunny. Light south winds. Should be more birds on
the move. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=653655&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.Ne1vmxgE.dpuf
Sunday, March 23 Weather:
Cold, mostly sunny, NNW winds.
Raptor Observations:
Very quiet.
Non-raptor Observations:
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17573075
Predictions:
Cold, WNW winds, partly cloudy. Sounds similar to today. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=652842&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.RHxTrNxS.dpuf
Saturday, March 22 Weather:
A wild weather day today. Strong SE winds early shifting to strong W.
Overcast conditions with clearing in the late afternoon. Fairly cold. A few
snow and rain showers.
Raptor Observations:
A steady trickle riding the strong tailwinds.
Non-raptor Observations:
Highlights today included the first Sandhill Crane, Wilson’s Snipe, and
Green-winged Teal of the season. Also at least two Iceland Gulls and one
Glaucous Gull flying into the west wind.
Predictions:
Sounds rough tomorrow. Cold temps and strong NW winds. Because of the date,
there will be some birds, but probably mostly Turkey Vultures. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=652010&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.pDRPj2Y4.dpuf
Friday, March 21 Weather:
Fairly cold temperatures today with WNW winds. Mostly cloudy skies early
with clearing in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A few migrants riding the westerly winds.
Non-raptor Observations:
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17542088
Predictions:
Mostly cloudy skies, a good chance of precipitation, strong SE winds early
shifting to W. Doesn’t sound great especially with the precipitation. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=651126&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.6KtDeUSI.dpuf
Thursday, March 20 Weather:
Cold temps, strong westerly winds, and overcast skies. Scattered snow
showers.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of a flight for a few hours. Probably mostly cleaning up from
yesterday’s flight.
Predictions:
Strong WNW wind and sun. Certainly will be some birds on the move,
especially Turkey Vultures. But probably nothing big.
– See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=650418&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.PGGIK78o.dpuf
Wednesday, March 19 Weather:
Strong SE winds all day with fairly cold temperatures and mostly cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
A very enjoyable day of movement with many low, close birds. Nice totals of
Rough-legged and Red-shouldered Hawks and Merlin.
Non-raptor Observations:
The first Tree Swallow and Eastern Meadowlark of the spring passed this
morning.
Predictions:
Probably won’t be quite as good but there should be some birds around after
the last two flight days. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=649646&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.vM6xlKDH.dpuf
Tuesday, March 18 Weather:
Light southeast winds all day today. Cold this morning but with some nice
eventual warming. Mostly cloudy early transitioning rapidly to blue skies
for most of the day.
Raptor Observations:
Easily the best flight of the season to date. Birds got up pretty high in
the blue and out over the Lake. It seems that many raptors are perceiving
the iced-over Lake as land rather than water and as a result have fewer
qualms about flying over it.
Predictions:
Could be pretty good tomorrow. Strong SE winds should keep the hawks down
lower, too. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=648898&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.u28N4sfI.dpuf
Monday, March 17 Weather:
Cold and sunny with temperature ranging from 5 to 23º F. Light wind,
sunshine and warm clothing made the day bearable.
Raptor Observations:
Not many birds moving near Lake Ontario on today’s conditions. A migrant
Golden Eagle was seen 5 miles SE of Derby Hill while I was driving home.
Non-raptor Observations:
Am. Crow 129, Am. Robin 1, Red-winged Blackbird 65 and 2 very smart Great
Blue Herons which were heading SW.
Predictions:
If the wind prediction holds at ESE-SE it will be a better day with temps
nearing 40º F. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=648056&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.4SDjRWYV.dpuf
Sunday, March 16 Weather:
Cold temperatures, fairly strong NW winds, and partly cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
Just a trickle today.
Non-raptor Observations:
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17470078
Predictions:
Cold temperatures again with light winds and mostly sunny skies. Might be a
few raptors moving. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=647306&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.Z0LaYvCW.dpuf
Saturday March 15 Weather:
Rain delayed opening the count this morning. Overcast skies with a few
short breaks of sun. Strong west winds all day.
Raptor Observations:
A small flight for a few hours after the rain let up. Birds were cruising
fast with the tailwind.
Non-raptor Observations:
A few thousand Ring-billed Gulls flying into the wind throughout the day.
Mixed in were smaller numbers of Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls.
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17453049
Predictions:
Doesn’t look great for the next few days with colder temperatures and NW
winds. Some sun tomorrow will surely coax a few raptors and Turkey Vultures
past the South Lookout.
Weather:
Cold temperatures early with some nice eventual warming. Strong SE winds.
Overcast with clearing in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A slow-starting flight, but an enjoyable one once it got going. Great looks
at some low-and-slow Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
500 or so Red-winged Blackbirds in the evening! A few groups of Cedar
Waxwings moving around. Other than that, pretty quiet. Even the crows took
the day off!
Predictions:
Should be some birds on the move with strong west winds tomorrow and fairly
mild temperatures. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=645571&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.D1mGvKpi.dpuf
Tuesday, March 11 Weather:
Fairly mild, sunny, westerly winds.
Raptor Observations:
A nice bit of movement. First Turkey Vultures, Red-shouldered Hawks, and
Northern Harrier of the season.
Non-raptor Observations:
A few Snow Buntings, six Killdeer, 580 American Crows. First few Red-winged
Blackbirds and Common Grackles of the season!
Predictions:
Lots of snow on the way. Friday and Saturday look promising, however. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=643686&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.NZUjg9W4.dpuf
Monday, March 10 Weather:
Calm conditions, overcast, mild temperatures.
Sunday, March 9 Weather:
Cold, fairly strong NW winds shifting to W in the afternoon. Clear early
with increasing clouds. A brief snow band in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A bit of movement in the middle of the day.
Non-raptor Observations:
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17380177
Predictions:
SW winds, overcast, and chance of snow. There probably will be a few birds
looking to move, but the lack of sun and the threat of precipitation should
put a bit of a damper on things. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=641630&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.0YZC8Gtj.dpuf
Saturday, March 8 Weather:
Light winds becoming stronger out of the NW. Temperatures hovering around 2
C. Cloudy skies.
Raptor Observations:
Nothing.
Non-raptor Observations:
eBird checklist: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17364936
Predictions:
Cold temperatures, WNW winds, mostly sunny. Should be a few birds moving,
but nothing big. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=640816&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.LwJZop3c.dpuf
Friday, March 7 Weather:
Warmer today than it has been for some time. Light southeasterly winds and
lots of sun made for a pleasant day at the North Lookout.
Raptor Observations:
A trickle of early season raptors today. Many birds were up surprisingly
high for the date. A nice showing of adult Golden Eagles, a few of which
migrated past well out over the frozen Lake.
Non-raptor Observations:
1660 American Crows, 6 Horned Larks.
Complete eBird checklist:
http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17350251
Predictions:
The slightly milder temperatures will continue tomorrow but with overcast
conditions and a shift to NW winds, I’m not expecting too much to be on the
move. – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=640026&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.2eJp6v48.dpuf
Weather:
Cold temperatures, but the abundant sunshine and light winds made for
a very pleasant day.
Raptor Observations:
Very little on the move today.
Non-raptor Observations:
80 American Crows migrating past.
Predictions:
Sounds pretty good. Sunny, warmer temps, SE winds. Should be at least
a few raptors on the move. But how much could there really be in the
pipeline? – See more at: http://birding.aba.org/message.php?mesid=639356&MLID=NY08&MLNM=New%20York%20Oneida#sthash.xdoqcx70.dpuf
Weather:
A bit warmer than recent days, but still cold. Light to moderately strong
southeast winds shifting more westerly as the day progressed. Overcast
skies with a few brief openings of sun especially in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
A lone adult Red-tailed Hawk was counted on opening day.
Non-raptor Observations:
72 migrating American Crows. An adult male White-winged Scoter was detected
flying inland up the very frozen Sage Creek – what’s up with that?
eBird checklist (simply copy and paste):
http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S17257045
Predictions:
Bad news on the weather front for a few days. Cold temperatures and NW
winds. Doesn’t sound good, especially given today’s poor showing on
southerly winds.
onondagaaudubon.com 