Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Amy Maurer, Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Judd Nathan, Phil Brown, Robin Feustel
Visitors: 94. Thanks for visiting and helping spot birds!
Weather: Mostly sunny with a nice breeze from the northwest. Temperature starting in the low sixties and rising to almost seventy by afternoon. Good visibility but still some haze in the distance.
Raptor Observations: Over seventy migrants today, the majority of them flying by very high. Mostly broad-wings coming through (as expected), along with a fair number of sharpies, a handful of Ospreys, one Bald Eagle, and the season's first kestrels. One sharpie took a dive at Gina, our decoy owl, late in the day.
Local raptors included one sharpie, one broad-wing, two Bald Eagles, three red-tails, and a few Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations: Several warbler species around in the morning (including Tennessee and Black-throated Green), along with a Blue-headed Vireo. Many butterflies and dragonflies on the wing today.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: 8/24 Monarchs: 30/54
Predictions: Slight chance of showers tomorrow with a light northeast wind. Not the most ideal conditions but there could be some birds flying. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/4/26 6:17 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 14 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls Dam
A count similar to Concord's with identical winds. We only need 6 more to reach 7,000 for the season and it's not a sure thing. Rain tomorrow only leaves Sunday and Monday. Can we make it?
The double digit northwest wind does not facilitate big flights in the Concord area. Saturday and Sunday look challenging for the same reason with possible rain in the forecast tomorrow.
Date: 9/4/26 3:18 pm From: Bill Duffy <dill.buffy...> Subject: [NHBirds] Warbler migration staging near Bradford Bog
Around 4 pm yesterday (Thursday) I noticed the oaks, maples and birch in my yard were alive with warblers and vireos flitting from branch to branch and tree to tree. Most were black-throated green and red-eyed vireos - I counted over 20 of each. I also spotted several common yellowthroat, parula and blue-headed vireos plus many others I couldn't see well enough to identify. A pair of Baltimore orioles also made an appearance.
Date: 9/4/26 12:59 pm From: Anne Ryc <annehadshi...> Subject: [NHBirds] Red crossbills in Concord
Red crossbills heard overhead, not seen, but I recognized their distinctive call, here in West Concord. I was waiting for them to show up this year! Anne H.
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 16:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 11.
Weather: Fog delayed our start and continued to reduce visibility during the first half of the count. Mostly calm, except for an occasional light breeze from the west, with temperatures in the sixties. The sun came out late in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: A quiet day. The first raptor appeared after 2:15pm - a broad-wing who circled up from the valley and streamed off overhead towards the southwest. A few Ospreys, two harriers, and two early Turkey Vultures were the only other migrants.
A local adult Bald Eagle lazily soared around over North Pack at the end of the day, and, as we were about to leave, a juvenile broad-wing alighted in a birch snag close to the platform and stayed for some time, apparently hunting for food.
Non-raptor Observations: The conditions today allowed ample time for warbler-watching and caterpillar-finding. Warbler species included Magnolia Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, American Redstart, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, and Cape May Warbler. Insect species included Hickory Tussock, Monarch, American Lady, Brown-hooded Owlet, Blinded Sphinx, Red-spotted Admiral, and Lake Darner.
Twenty ravens put on a show in the afternoon.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: 1/16 Monarchs: 6/24
Predictions: The weather looks really nice tomorrow for raptors and raptor-watching. Sunshine, warm temperature, and northwest breeze. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/3/26 5:22 pm From: Zeke Cornell <zekecornell...> Subject: [NHBirds] Concord nighthawk migration last night 7; tonight 686
Greetings,
Folks began reportings nighthawk groups in the greater Concord area about 4 PM. I was up on the garage roof by 5 PM to witness an incredible flight for September 3rd. We average about 100 birds on this date, so this evening was extraordinary. The conditions were great with a mild breeze from the south and the temp in the mid-70s . The insect hatch must have been spectacular, as there were eleven Ring-billed Gulls hawking insects, as well. Season total now at 4,561. Average for the previous 14 years is 4,790.
Date: 9/3/26 5:45 am From: Joshua Jarvis <menasor77...> Subject: [NHBirds] Red Crossbill Richmond
I just heard (but did not see) a red crossbill doing a chip-chip chip-chip chip-chip-chip call in Richmond. I was using my Bird Net app to ID calls when I heard it and it confirmed it as red crossbill too.
Date: 9/2/26 5:38 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 73 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
With weather conditions identical to last night a comparable count, with most birds southbound into the SE wind.
Now that we can look back, we can see that this year's peak happened on August 28, 30, and 31, as you would expect. The 2025 season was a major aberation with peak flights not until September 3 and 5. In 2024 the peak ran from August 23 through the 27th. The peak 2 days in 2023 was August 28 and 29.
We only need 30 more nighthawks to reach 7,000 for the season.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nate Marchessault
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Julianne Timmerman, Mark Timmerman, Phil Brown, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 17 visitors throughout the day, as the weather improved so did the number of folks visiting the Observatory!
Weather: Hovering in the mid to low 60s all day, a chilly start to Pack's official season start! Low clouds totally socked us in for the first couple hours, but after that visibility wasn't too bad other than a slight haze. Light east winds today and, accordingly, all raptors were seen to the east.
Raptor Observations: Better than anticipated given the forecast! Once the skies opened up, there were birds here and there throughout the count. Nice to see so many Osprey moving. 3 Turkey Vultures, 1 Red-tailed Hawk, and 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk were also observed not actively migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: A few migrants around, with eyes on a couple Cape Mays and a possible Magnolia Warbler.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird: 0 (15 this season) Monarch: 5 (23 this season)
Predictions: Tomorrow morning may start wet, but with the sun poking out in the afternoon, warmer temperatures, and a west wind there could be some birds on the move!
On this day in Pack history: "2008: Starting off the season with some Merlin fun. Official counter Julie Brown (then Tilden): ""Most of the birds were high and distant but we were rewarded with a few close sharpies and our first peregrine! Definite highlight of the day at 14:35: We watched a juve merlin for 12 minutes..take 40 seperate dives at the owl on the pole while vocalizing. We watched in awe as it harrassed a raven, chased a juve sharpie (also diving at owl), perched on a nearby snag and then caught, tasted and spit out a Monarch butterfly.""" ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/2/26 10:55 am From: 'Sylvia Hartmann' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] In Manchester NH
at 1:15 pm today, adult bald eagle circling above intersection of Lake Ave and Mammoth Road. At 1:50 pm today, a skein of 25 Canada geese, heading east to west. Sylvia Hartmann. Manchester NH
Date: 9/1/26 8:05 pm From: '<bikenbird...>' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] *** NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday September 9, 2026 7:30 PM Program: Birds of New Zealand***
New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
Please note the following:
* Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs) for any changes that may impact the in person program.
* There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you!
Wednesday September 9, 2026 7:30 pm Program: Birds of New Zealand In December of 2025, Cameron Johnson, a wildlife photographer, took a solo trip to see New Zealand’s incredible native birds. This program will go over many of the photos he took, as well as the adventures it took to get them. This is the Seacoast Chapter annual business meeting for the election of executive board officers. Bio: Cameron Johnson is a wildlife photographer based out of Dover, NH and has been an avid birder since 2022. He spends most of his free time looking for rare birds in NH, as well as helping run the New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert Group Me and volunteering for NH Audubon as an eBird Reviewer.
All are welcome to attend our Wednesday September 9, 2026 program which is free of charge at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible), Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH (click here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center) There will be refreshments starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
Thank You! Dunkin’ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit the location mention a thank you!
Date: 9/1/26 5:55 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 92 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Nighthawks know the calendar. Now that September is here the peak of migration has passed and numbers will dwindle this week until they reach zero on or about the 7th. As in Concord, all birds were southbound into a SE or SW wind. Coolest temperatures of the season may have contributed to the lower count. Almost all birds were counted by 6:00.
There was a favorable breeze from the southeast, but the temp was only in the 60's. The few birds were headed south, and if not over the river, they were moving parallel to it. The same area had 20-30 Chimney Swiftts gliding about and obviously feeding.
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory Peterborough, New Hampshire, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Sep 01, 2026 ------------------------------------------------------------------- Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Unofficial Observer: David Wiedner
Visitors: None. And who can blame them?
Weather: Periods of rain and mist interspersed with periods of mist and rain.
Raptor Observations: No birds of the raptorial persuasion.
This is the way the season begins Not with a bang but a whimper.
Non-raptor Observations: Local Dark-eyed Juncos, Black-capped Chickadees, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Blue Jays, Common Ravens, Golden-crowned Kinglets. Possible dark-morph Elvis sighting; photos submitted to "National Enquirer".
Date: 9/1/26 4:28 am From: Sylvia Miskoe <sylviasmiskoe...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Digest for - 10 updates in 7 topics
There is one nest with 3 youngsters ready to fly. all the other swallows
have gone. I''ll miss them.
Sylvia Miskoe, Concord.
On Mon, Aug 31, 2026 at 6:39 PM <nhbirds...> wrote:
> <nhbirds...>
> <https://groups.google.com/forum/?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email#!forum/nhbirds/topics> [image:
> Google Groups Logo]
> <https://groups.google.com/forum/?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email/#!overview> Google
> Groups
> <https://groups.google.com/forum/?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email/#!overview> > Topic digest
> View all topics
> <https://groups.google.com/forum/?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email#!forum/nhbirds/topics> >
> - There's a push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest
> Service afoot <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_0> - 3 Updates
> - Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory (31 Aug 2026) 39 Raptors
> <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_1> - 1 Update
> - Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 31, 2026
> <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_2> - 1 Update
> - Hampton <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_3> - 1 Update
> - Manchester NIghthawk Count: 1 <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_4>
> - 1 Update
> - 1,493 Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
> <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_5> - 2 Updates
> - Concord nighthawk migration 56 birds
> <#m_1513233113728149169_group_thread_6> - 1 Update
>
> There's a push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service
> afoot
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/78807efe7f2bbf08?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > Elaine Faletra <elaine.faletra...>: Aug 30 07:38PM -0400
>
> Hi Everyone!
>
> This is a really BIG issue and so I write to you all once again for your
> support.
>
> The push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service poses
> a significant threat to places like the White Mountain National Forest, and
> public engagement ahead of the September 21, 2026 deadline is critical.
> And, incredibly, you can comment!!
>
> And don’t just write ‘I’m against’ or ‘I’m for'. That means NOTHING to
> them and your comment will be trashed. They require an explanation as to
> why you are against or why you are for. Ground your position in tangible
> concerns regarding recreation, erosion, loss of wilderness character, and
> heavy industrial logging impacts. Mention water quality, carbon
> sequestration, protection of endangered species habitats (like the Northern
> Long-eared Bat), birds, wildlife, and the economic value of unfragmented
> backcountry recreation to New Hampshire’s TOURISM ECONOMY.
>
> If this goes through, accept that some of your cherished places in the
> WMNF that have been protected for decades could be logged and roads built
> through.
>
>
> https://www.wmur.com/article/proposal-logging-white-mountain-forest-82826/73556420 > <
> https://www.wmur.com/article/proposal-logging-white-mountain-forest-82826/73556420 > >
>
> The formal public comment portal can be accessed directly at
> Regulations.gov (Docket FS-2025-0001-223869) <
> https://www.regulations.gov/document/FS-2025-0001-223869>.
>
> Best,
>
> Elaine Faletra
> Warren NH
> Jill Thompson <jilllvscts53...>: Aug 31 02:32PM -0700
>
> Thank you for posting this! I was aware of this move and unsure how to
> protest and very much appreciated the link and the suggestions! I have
> sent in my 2 cents and hopw that they are overwhelmed with other responses!
>
> On Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 7:38:33 PM UTC-4 Elaine Faletra wrote:
>
> Elaine Faletra <elaine.faletra...>: Aug 31 05:41PM -0400
>
> Thank you for your 3,800 words! There will likely be additional ways to
> participate as we move forward. The birding community is strong!!!
>
> Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory (31 Aug 2026) 39 Raptors
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/cd04574d0776b59f?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > <reports...>: Aug 31 09:39PM
>
> Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory
> Peterborough, New Hampshire, USA
> Daily Raptor Counts: Aug 31, 2026
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total
> ------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
> Black Vulture 0 0 0
> Turkey Vulture 0 0 0
> Osprey 2 6 6
> Bald Eagle 1 8 8
> Northern Harrier 1 5 5
> Sharp-shinned Hawk 8 19 19
> Cooper's Hawk 0 0 0
> American Goshawk 0 0 0
> Red-shouldered Hawk 0 0 0
> Broad-winged Hawk 26 70 70
> Red-tailed Hawk 0 1 1
> Rough-legged Hawk 0 0 0
> Golden Eagle 0 0 0
> American Kestrel 0 0 0
> Merlin 1 1 1
> Peregrine Falcon 0 0 0
> Unknown Accipitrine 0 0 0
> Unknown Buteo 0 0 0
> Unknown Falcon 0 0 0
> Unknown Eagle 0 0 0
> Unknown Raptor 0 0 0
>
> Total: 39 110 110
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Observation start time: 08:00:00
> Observation end time: 16:00:00
> Total observation time: 8 hours
>
> Official Counter: Glen Chretien
>
> Observers: Chuck Carlson, Lori-Ann Chretien, Tom Delaney
>
> Visitors:
> All day was a race between visitors(12) and Monarch butterflies(13). The
> humans may have lost the numbers game but brought great interactions.
> Notably, Dave and Connie Ward and Silas Wilkins showed great interest in
> the program and promised to return. Not only was Silas interested in the
> raptor count but he was enchanted by the number of dragonflies surrounding
> us and we hope he soon gets to meet another hawk watch regular who we know
> has a similar passion.
>
>
> Weather:
> Great big blue skies greeted our arrival this morning. For the first time
> this season, Mount Washington was visible to the unaided eye. Upon arrival
> there was only a very light breeze from the N and a temperature of 62 F.
> Only very high cirrus clouds to the west would hint at things to come.
> There was a hint of overcast moving in by the lunch hour but the afternoon
> returned to strong warm sunshine. Although winds were very light all day a
> switch to SSW after 2:30 DST slowed down the movement of birds
> dramatically.
>
> Raptor Observations:
> Highest count day total of the pre-season.
>
> 12:05 PM DST brought us the first true kettle of the season. A calling
> Common Raven to the east caused me to look up. Instead of witnessing the
> expected, an adult Broad-winged scraped just over the treetops and circled
> right above the observers. Within seconds it was joined by 5 more adults
> and they kettled just above the platform. The thermal caused them to rise
> rapidly directly above us and they were soon pepper flakes against the high
> cirrus clouds above.
>
> Non-migrating raptors:
> 1 Cooper�s Hawk
> 1 Peregrine Falcon
> 2 Bald Eagle
> 3 Red-tailed Hawk
> 4 Turkey Vulture
>
> The raptors knew we didn�t want the pre-season to end, and put on a show
> for the ages in the last 15 minutes. Our local Peregrine made its
> appearance, first chasing a Raven. Its attention was drawn away helping me
> find the last Osprey of the day. The diving was merciless and the Osprey
> wondered why he didn�t end the travels earlier today. The Peregrine�s
> pursuit ended and the Osprey�s flight became less frantic. It turns out
> that the Pergrine�s attention was instead drawn to a juvenile Northern
> Harrier who was mistakenly following in the wing beats of the Osprey.
> Unbelievably, the last bird of the day was an adult Broadwing who flew
> below the observers while passing through the platform. The only other
> birds I have seen that close was on a hawk release day
>
>
>
> The pre-season has ended and the torch will be passed. We are grateful to
> witness over 100 birds. Thank you to Phil, Mike, Tom M, Tom D., and Chuck
> for all your support.
>
> Non-raptor Observations:
> RTHU 1 today/ 15 season
> Monarchs 13 today/18 season
>
> Butterflies: Red-spotted Purple and Small White
>
> 6 Tree Swallows
> 1 Cliff Swallow
> 4 Chimney Swifts
> 2 Blue-winged Teal
> 1 Red-eyed Vireo
> 3 Yellow-rumped Warblers
>
> Predictions:
> Pre-season is over and the full-time Hawk counter will soon take her post.
> Weather looks rough until the end of the week but we all know New England
> weather can be changeable. Thank you for joining me for the pre-season.
> ========================================================================
> Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>)
> Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at:
> www.harriscenter.org
>
>
> More site information at hawkcount.org:
> https://hawkcount.org/siteinfo.php?rsite=320 > Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 31, 2026
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/35d503a1333d85a3?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > Mark Suomala <suomalamark...>: Aug 31 01:06PM -0400
>
> This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for August 31st, 2026.
>
>
>
> A CASPIAN TERN was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 27th, and 1 was seen at
> Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on the 27th and 29th.
>
>
>
> 2 FORSTER’S TERNS were seen at Peirce Island in Portsmouth, 1 was seen from
> Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, and 2 were seen in Hampton Harbor, all on
> several days during the past week.
>
>
>
> A LITTLE GULL was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on August 23rd, and
>
> 2 GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULLS were seen on the Merrimack River in Manchester
> on August 27th.
>
>
>
> A RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was seen in Akers Pond in Errol on August 25th, and
> 2 were seen at the Balsams property in Dixville (currently closed to public
> access) on the 26th.
>
>
>
> 4 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals on August 30th.
>
>
>
> A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at the Durham Town Landing and Jackson’s Landing
> on the Oyster River all during the past week, and it was last reported on
> the 25th.
>
>
>
> A HUDSONIAN GODWIT was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 24th-30th.
>
>
>
> 2 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS were seen in the Hampton Salt Marsh Conservation
> Area on August 27th-29th.
>
>
>
> 2 “WESTERN” WILLETS were seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on August
> 24th-30th.
>
>
>
> An “EASTERN” WILLET was seen in Hampton Harbor, and 1 was also seen on Star
> Island, both during the past week.
>
>
>
> 3 WESTERN SANDPIPERS were seen in Plaice Cove in Hampton on August 27th,
> and a DUNLIN was seen here on the 26th.
>
>
>
> A juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen roosting in a tree along
> Route 1A across from the St. Elizabeth Church in Seabrook on several days
> during the past week.
>
>
>
> A juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen at Bedell Bridge State
> Historic Site in Haverhill on several days during the past week.
>
>
>
> A few LITTLE BLUE HERONS were seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located
> west of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach, 3 were seen in
> pools just south of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, 1 was seen at Amazon
> Park Pond in Somersworth, and 1 was seen at Pickering Ponds in Rochester,
> all on several days during the past week.
>
>
>
> 248 GREAT EGRETS, and 25 SNOWY EGRETS were all seen roosting along Route
> 107 in Seabrook on August 29th.
>
>
>
> A SNOWY EGRET was seen at the Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area in
> Dover on August 24th.
>
>
>
> A hybrid between a TRICOLORED HERON and a SNOWY EGRET was seen in Philbrick
> Marsh in North Hampton on August 24th.
>
>
>
> 3 GREEN HERONS were seen along the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
> Colebrook on August 24th.
>
>
>
> 2 SANDHILL CRANES continue to be seen in fields along Plains Road in Monroe
> and were last reported from Coppermine Road on August 24th.
>
>
>
> A BLACK VULTURE was seen in Stratham on August 24th.
>
>
>
> A DICKCISSEL was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on August 30th.
>
>
>
> A PHILADELPHIA VIREO was seen in Freedom Town Forest. 1 was seen in
> Grantham, and 1 was seen in Unity, all during the past week.
>
>
>
> An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen at Green Wagon Farm in Keene on August
> 30
> th.
>
>
>
> 3 CAPE MAY WARBLERS were seen in Croydon on August 24th.
>
>
>
> An ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen at Blackberry Way in Manchester on August 30th.
>
>
>
> An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on
> August 25th.
>
>
>
> 2 BANK SWALLOWS and a NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW were seen at Powder
> Mill Pond in Hancock on August 25th.
>
>
>
> COMMON NIGHTHAWK migration has already begun with over 9,000 (about 3,000
> each site) recorded by observers at Storrs Street in Concord, Franklin
> Falls in Franklin, and Powder Mill Pond in Hancock since August 17th.
> Volunteer-observers are welcome to assist!
>
>
>
> Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
> counted over 70 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the Pack
> Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
> official counters!
>
>
>
> An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
> have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
> 224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
> send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
> Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
> phone number.
>
>
>
> *What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
>
> The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
> usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
> websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
> uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
>
>
>
> *What makes a bird rare?*
>
> A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
> an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
> example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
> Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
> normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
> rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
> Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
> <
> https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/ > >
> on
> the *Joy of Birding.*
>
>
>
> Thanks very much and good birding!
>
>
>
> Available NOW!
>
> Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
> dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
> North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
> guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
> Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
> copy, check out this link:
>
>
>
> https://nhbirdrecords.org/birding-northern-new-hampshire/ > Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> Hampton
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/5c3077f5e7153ba7?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > Aaronian, Rich <raaronian...>: Aug 31 02:14PM
>
> Henry’s Pool
> Hudsonian Whimbrel continuing
>
> Hampton Conservation Area
> Short-billed Dowitcher 1 juvenile
> Killdeer 1
> Greater Yellowlegs 8
> Semipalmated SP 4
> Snowy Egret 53
> Great Egret 5
> Barn Swallow 3
>
> Rich Aaronian, Exeter
> Sent from my iPhone
> Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> Manchester NIghthawk Count: 1
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/eb2f7ac32767ffb9?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > David <dswiedner...>: Aug 30 08:55PM -0400
>
> 18:10-19:30, N Eversource Parking Lot. 1 Nighthawk flew down Merrimack
> River over Amoskeag Falls at 18:50, then flew SE toward downtown.
> Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> 1,493 Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/14c5f1cf11150783?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > Rob Woodward <toucanrob...>: Aug 31 12:58AM
>
> Within a minute of my arrival at 3:55 nighthawks were already flying.
> Should I have started at 3:30? By 4:30 the count was 729.
> Then things slowed down at 5:00 and resumed at 6:00 with another flock of
> over 300. More cross-traffic meant many flocks were "catch-and-release."
> At 7:00 just a trickle leaked through until 7:30.
> Not many raptors but tonight's shorebird was a calling Greater
> Yellowlegs. We rescued a road-crossing Milk Snake.
> Tonight's epicurean repast was taken at Tilton Taco Bell.
> Season Total = 5,522.
> Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
> jennifer Frost <jennfrost67...>: Aug 30 10:56PM -0400
>
> Where is your observation location? Jennifer
>
> On Sun, Aug 30, 2026 at 8:58 PM 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <
> Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> Concord nighthawk migration 56 birds
> <http://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/t/3bd299b978ab845c?utm_source=digest&utm_medium=email> > Zeke Cornell <zekecornell...>: Aug 30 08:01PM -0400
>
> Greetings,
>
> Six of us watched every direction, but there were few birds on this cloudy
> evening. Rain arrived just as we finished. The Chimney Swift numbers are
> way down, as well.
>
> For the season: 3,063 nighthawks...
>
> Zeke Cornell
> Bow, NH
> Back to top <#m_1513233113728149169_digest_top>
> You received this digest because you're subscribed to updates for this
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>
Date: 8/31/26 6:00 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 1,283 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Thanks to the very able assistance from both Kathy Wheeler and Randy Langer, more birds were counted than would have been on a solo try. Randy's instructions were simple: when counting a big group, every time you hit 100 yell out "one hundred!" then count anew. I mark and "X" in the book. Sure enough he sniffed out a big group and in came the "one hundred"s, twice. This was planning and execution the military would be envious of.
We also had a nice visit from Denise and Maria who got to see at least some birds close overhead as the count slowed way down after 6:00. They bulk of the count was between 4:30 and 6:00.
Season total = 6,805, now exceeding last year's total.
Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
Five other folks helped greatly as the birds primarily came in from the east and just moved out to the west. The challenge was that the flight corridors were about equally to the north and the south. Right as we finished there was a final push of fourteen birds that flew directly over us. It was nice way to end.
The forecast suggests rain is on the way. Monitoring will continue except for full on rain or lightning storms. Sometimes there can be good flights in between light showers. We'll go into September until there a couple of zero counts in a row.
Date: 8/31/26 2:41 pm From: Elaine Faletra <elaine.faletra...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Re: There's a push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service afoot
Thank you for your 3,800 words! There will likely be additional ways to participate as we move forward. The birding community is strong!!!
> On Aug 31, 2026, at 5:28 PM, Jill Thompson <jilllvscts53...> wrote:
>
> Thank you for this post. I was unsure how to protest this action and very much appreciated the links and suggestions. My 3,800 words have been submitted!
>
> On Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 7:38:33 PM UTC-4 Elaine Faletra wrote:
> Hi Everyone!
>
> This is a really BIG issue and so I write to you all once again for your support.
>
> The push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service poses a significant threat to places like the White Mountain National Forest, and public engagement ahead of the September 21, 2026 deadline is critical. And, incredibly, you can comment!!
>
> And don’t just write ‘I’m against’ or ‘I’m for'. That means NOTHING to them and your comment will be trashed. They require an explanation as to why you are against or why you are for. Ground your position in tangible concerns regarding recreation, erosion, loss of wilderness character, and heavy industrial logging impacts. Mention water quality, carbon sequestration, protection of endangered species habitats (like the Northern Long-eared Bat), birds, wildlife, and the economic value of unfragmented backcountry recreation to New Hampshire’s TOURISM ECONOMY.
>
> If this goes through, accept that some of your cherished places in the WMNF that have been protected for decades could be logged and roads built through.
>
> https://www.wmur.com/article/proposal-logging-white-mountain-forest-82826/73556420 <https://www.wmur.com/article/proposal-logging-white-mountain-forest-82826/73556420> >
> The formal public comment portal can be accessed directly at Regulations.gov (Docket FS-2025-0001-223869) <https://www.regulations.gov/document/FS-2025-0001-223869>.
>
> Best,
>
> Elaine Faletra
> Warren NH
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en <https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en> > ---
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Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Lori-Ann Chretien, Tom Delaney
Visitors:
All day was a race between visitors(12) and Monarch butterflies(13). The
humans may have lost the numbers game but brought great interactions.
Notably, Dave and Connie Ward and Silas Wilkins showed great interest in
the program and promised to return. Not only was Silas interested in the
raptor count but he was enchanted by the number of dragonflies surrounding
us and we hope he soon gets to meet another hawk watch regular who we know
has a similar passion.
Weather:
Great big blue skies greeted our arrival this morning. For the first time
this season, Mount Washington was visible to the unaided eye. Upon arrival
there was only a very light breeze from the N and a temperature of 62 F.
Only very high cirrus clouds to the west would hint at things to come.
There was a hint of overcast moving in by the lunch hour but the afternoon
returned to strong warm sunshine. Although winds were very light all day a
switch to SSW after 2:30 DST slowed down the movement of birds
dramatically.
Raptor Observations:
Highest count day total of the pre-season.
12:05 PM DST brought us the first true kettle of the season. A calling
Common Raven to the east caused me to look up. Instead of witnessing the
expected, an adult Broad-winged scraped just over the treetops and circled
right above the observers. Within seconds it was joined by 5 more adults
and they kettled just above the platform. The thermal caused them to rise
rapidly directly above us and they were soon pepper flakes against the high
cirrus clouds above.
The raptors knew we didn�t want the pre-season to end, and put on a show
for the ages in the last 15 minutes. Our local Peregrine made its
appearance, first chasing a Raven. Its attention was drawn away helping me
find the last Osprey of the day. The diving was merciless and the Osprey
wondered why he didn�t end the travels earlier today. The Peregrine�s
pursuit ended and the Osprey�s flight became less frantic. It turns out
that the Pergrine�s attention was instead drawn to a juvenile Northern
Harrier who was mistakenly following in the wing beats of the Osprey.
Unbelievably, the last bird of the day was an adult Broadwing who flew
below the observers while passing through the platform. The only other
birds I have seen that close was on a hawk release day
The pre-season has ended and the torch will be passed. We are grateful to
witness over 100 birds. Thank you to Phil, Mike, Tom M, Tom D., and Chuck
for all your support.
Non-raptor Observations:
RTHU 1 today/ 15 season
Monarchs 13 today/18 season
Predictions:
Pre-season is over and the full-time Hawk counter will soon take her post.
Weather looks rough until the end of the week but we all know New England
weather can be changeable. Thank you for joining me for the pre-season.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>)
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at:
www.harriscenter.org
Date: 8/31/26 2:32 pm From: Jill Thompson <jilllvscts53...> Subject: [NHBirds] Re: There's a push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service afoot
Thank you for posting this! I was aware of this move and unsure how to
protest and very much appreciated the link and the suggestions! I have
sent in my 2 cents and hopw that they are overwhelmed with other responses!
On Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 7:38:33 PM UTC-4 Elaine Faletra wrote:
> Hi Everyone!
>
> This is a really BIG issue and so I write to you all once again for your
> support.
>
> The push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service poses
> a significant threat to places like the White Mountain National Forest, and
> public engagement ahead of the *September 21, 2026* deadline is critical.
> And, incredibly, you can comment!!
>
> And don’t just write ‘I’m against’ or ‘I’m for'. That means NOTHING to
> them and your comment will be trashed. They require an explanation as to
> why you are against or why you are for. Ground your position in tangible
> concerns regarding recreation, erosion, loss of wilderness character, and
> heavy industrial logging impacts. Mention water quality, carbon
> sequestration, protection of endangered species habitats (like the Northern
> Long-eared Bat), birds, wildlife, and the economic value of unfragmented
> backcountry recreation to New Hampshire’s TOURISM ECONOMY.
>
> If this goes through, accept that some of your cherished places in the
> WMNF that have been protected for decades could be logged and roads built
> through.
>
>
> https://www.wmur.com/article/proposal-logging-white-mountain-forest-82826/73556420 >
> The formal public comment portal can be accessed directly at Regulations.gov
> (Docket FS-2025-0001-223869)
> <https://www.regulations.gov/document/FS-2025-0001-223869>.
>
> Best,
>
> Elaine Faletra
> Warren NH
>
Date: 8/31/26 2:28 pm From: Jill Thompson <jilllvscts53...> Subject: [NHBirds] Re: There's a push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service afoot
Thank you for this post. I was unsure how to protest this action and very
much appreciated the links and suggestions. My 3,800 words have been
submitted!
On Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 7:38:33 PM UTC-4 Elaine Faletra wrote:
> Hi Everyone!
>
> This is a really BIG issue and so I write to you all once again for your
> support.
>
> The push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service poses
> a significant threat to places like the White Mountain National Forest, and
> public engagement ahead of the *September 21, 2026* deadline is critical.
> And, incredibly, you can comment!!
>
> And don’t just write ‘I’m against’ or ‘I’m for'. That means NOTHING to
> them and your comment will be trashed. They require an explanation as to
> why you are against or why you are for. Ground your position in tangible
> concerns regarding recreation, erosion, loss of wilderness character, and
> heavy industrial logging impacts. Mention water quality, carbon
> sequestration, protection of endangered species habitats (like the Northern
> Long-eared Bat), birds, wildlife, and the economic value of unfragmented
> backcountry recreation to New Hampshire’s TOURISM ECONOMY.
>
> If this goes through, accept that some of your cherished places in the
> WMNF that have been protected for decades could be logged and roads built
> through.
>
>
> https://www.wmur.com/article/proposal-logging-white-mountain-forest-82826/73556420 >
> The formal public comment portal can be accessed directly at Regulations.gov
> (Docket FS-2025-0001-223869)
> <https://www.regulations.gov/document/FS-2025-0001-223869>.
>
> Best,
>
> Elaine Faletra
> Warren NH
>
Date: 8/31/26 10:06 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 31, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for August 31st, 2026.
A CASPIAN TERN was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 27th, and 1 was seen at
Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on the 27th and 29th.
2 FORSTER’S TERNS were seen at Peirce Island in Portsmouth, 1 was seen from
Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, and 2 were seen in Hampton Harbor, all on
several days during the past week.
A LITTLE GULL was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on August 23rd, and
2 GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULLS were seen on the Merrimack River in Manchester
on August 27th.
A RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was seen in Akers Pond in Errol on August 25th, and
2 were seen at the Balsams property in Dixville (currently closed to public
access) on the 26th.
4 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals on August 30th.
A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at the Durham Town Landing and Jackson’s Landing
on the Oyster River all during the past week, and it was last reported on
the 25th.
A HUDSONIAN GODWIT was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 24th-30th.
2 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS were seen in the Hampton Salt Marsh Conservation
Area on August 27th-29th.
2 “WESTERN” WILLETS were seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on August
24th-30th.
An “EASTERN” WILLET was seen in Hampton Harbor, and 1 was also seen on Star
Island, both during the past week.
3 WESTERN SANDPIPERS were seen in Plaice Cove in Hampton on August 27th,
and a DUNLIN was seen here on the 26th.
A juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen roosting in a tree along
Route 1A across from the St. Elizabeth Church in Seabrook on several days
during the past week.
A juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen at Bedell Bridge State
Historic Site in Haverhill on several days during the past week.
A few LITTLE BLUE HERONS were seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located
west of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach, 3 were seen in
pools just south of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, 1 was seen at Amazon
Park Pond in Somersworth, and 1 was seen at Pickering Ponds in Rochester,
all on several days during the past week.
248 GREAT EGRETS, and 25 SNOWY EGRETS were all seen roosting along Route
107 in Seabrook on August 29th.
A SNOWY EGRET was seen at the Bellamy River Wildlife Management Area in
Dover on August 24th.
A hybrid between a TRICOLORED HERON and a SNOWY EGRET was seen in Philbrick
Marsh in North Hampton on August 24th.
3 GREEN HERONS were seen along the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on August 24th.
2 SANDHILL CRANES continue to be seen in fields along Plains Road in Monroe
and were last reported from Coppermine Road on August 24th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen in Stratham on August 24th.
A DICKCISSEL was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on August 30th.
A PHILADELPHIA VIREO was seen in Freedom Town Forest. 1 was seen in
Grantham, and 1 was seen in Unity, all during the past week.
An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen at Green Wagon Farm in Keene on August 30
th.
3 CAPE MAY WARBLERS were seen in Croydon on August 24th.
An ORCHARD ORIOLE was seen at Blackberry Way in Manchester on August 30th.
An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on
August 25th.
2 BANK SWALLOWS and a NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW were seen at Powder
Mill Pond in Hancock on August 25th.
COMMON NIGHTHAWK migration has already begun with over 9,000 (about 3,000
each site) recorded by observers at Storrs Street in Concord, Franklin
Falls in Franklin, and Powder Mill Pond in Hancock since August 17th.
Volunteer-observers are welcome to assist!
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 70 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the Pack
Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 8/30/26 7:57 pm From: jennifer Frost <jennfrost67...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] 1,493 Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Where is your observation location? Jennifer
On Sun, Aug 30, 2026 at 8:58 PM 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <
<nhbirds...> wrote:
> Within a minute of my arrival at 3:55 nighthawks were already flying.
> Should I have started at 3:30? By 4:30 the count was 729.
>
> Then things slowed down at 5:00 and resumed at 6:00 with another flock of
> over 300. More cross-traffic meant many flocks were "catch-and-release."
> At 7:00 just a trickle leaked through until 7:30.
>
> Not many raptors but tonight's shorebird was a calling Greater
> Yellowlegs. We rescued a road-crossing Milk Snake.
>
> Tonight's epicurean repast was taken at Tilton Taco Bell.
>
> Season Total = 5,522.
>
> Rob Woodward
> Laconia, NH
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "NHBirds" group.
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>
Date: 8/30/26 5:59 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 1,493 Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Within a minute of my arrival at 3:55 nighthawks were already flying. Should I have started at 3:30? By 4:30 the count was 729.
Then things slowed down at 5:00 and resumed at 6:00 with another flock of over 300. More cross-traffic meant many flocks were "catch-and-release." At 7:00 just a trickle leaked through until 7:30.
Not many raptors but tonight's shorebird was a calling Greater Yellowlegs. We rescued a road-crossing Milk Snake.
Tonight's epicurean repast was taken at Tilton Taco Bell.
Season Total = 5,522.
Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
Six of us watched every direction, but there were few birds on this cloudy evening. Rain arrived just as we finished. The Chimney Swift numbers are way down, as well.
Date: 8/30/26 4:38 pm From: Elaine Faletra <elaine.faletra...> Subject: [NHBirds] There's a push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service afoot
Hi Everyone!
This is a really BIG issue and so I write to you all once again for your support.
The push to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule by the US Forest Service poses a significant threat to places like the White Mountain National Forest, and public engagement ahead of the September 21, 2026 deadline is critical. And, incredibly, you can comment!!
And don’t just write ‘I’m against’ or ‘I’m for'. That means NOTHING to them and your comment will be trashed. They require an explanation as to why you are against or why you are for. Ground your position in tangible concerns regarding recreation, erosion, loss of wilderness character, and heavy industrial logging impacts. Mention water quality, carbon sequestration, protection of endangered species habitats (like the Northern Long-eared Bat), birds, wildlife, and the economic value of unfragmented backcountry recreation to New Hampshire’s TOURISM ECONOMY.
If this goes through, accept that some of your cherished places in the WMNF that have been protected for decades could be logged and roads built through.
This morning I had a brief look at an adult American Goshawk flying
relatively low through the power-line right-of-way on my farm. It was a
large accipiter (though I don’t think we’re supposed to call them that
anymore…) flapping steadily — not the flap flap glide of Cooper’s — with
relatively long, pointed wings, and the underside appeared uniformly white
or light grey. I have daily red-tails hunting from the transmission tower,
so I have a relatively objective basis for judging size in this location.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers: Lori-Ann Chretien, Mike Gebo
Visitors: Very quiet. Only 4 in the first couple of hours.
Weather: Winds SW at arrival around 10 MPH. Dense cirrostratus layer blotting out the sun. Clouds thickened as a couple of hours passed. lost site of Mount Cardigan. It felt cooler than the 66 F in the breeze nd lack of solar warmth.
Raptor Observations: No raptors seen, truncated count day
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning dove and Black-capped Chickadess. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 8/29/26 6:00 pm From: David <dswiedner...> Subject: [NHBirds] Common NIghthawk watch, Manchester, NH
17:40-19:30. 7 CONI counted. Observed from Overlook S of Amoskeag Falls and N Eversource Parking lot. 1st NIghthawk seen at 19:24, hunting on E side of Merrimack River considerably N of the Falls. It was joined by 6 others, hunting, and all moved W across river and continued hunting over W side and moving W until out of sight. No NIghthawks seen S of the Falls despite presence of hunting CHSWs.
Date: 8/29/26 5:42 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 102 Common Nighthawks - Franknlkin Falls Dam
They had no problem with NW winds yesterday but today they had little tolerance. Not only is this count almost identical to Concord's (like it should be every night) but almost all birds were also seen during a one hour period between 5:15 and 6:20. These birds were all headed NE and NW.
Not all was lost, a pretty good raptor list:
Bald Eagle - daily sighting of a 1st year birdOsprey - almost daily hereNorthern Harrier - northbound - not migratingBroad-winged Hawk - non-migrantMerlin - chasing the pigeons again at the dam control towerAmerican Kestrel - they nest in the areaOddball sighting - Wilson's Snipe - came out and flew across
Season total = 4,029
This all topped off with a hearty meal at Tilton Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Lori-Ann Chretien, Mike Gebo
Visitors:
31 including a gentleman at the end hiking with a brilliant Cockatoo on his
shoulder. Thank you Mike and Chuck for sharing your time today and helping
spot birds.
Weather:
Nearly cloudless skies today. Visibility to Mount Washington all day. Low
humidity and light NW winds. Temperatures started in the high 50�s F and
topped out at 72 F mid-day
Raptor Observations:
6 local Bald Eagles seen in addition to the 4 migrants. One of the
highlights of the day was a procession of 3 bald eagles and a red-tail all
being dove upon by a local Peregrine Falcon causing an adult Bald Eagle to
vocalize several times before moving south.
Another highlight occurred in the closing hour as an adult Broadwing landed
in a broken birch very near the remaining observers and stayed constantly
surveying its surroundings for 6-7 minutes before something during his scan
caught its eye down slope from us.
A local Merlin circled the summit several times.
Non-raptor Observations:
RTHU 3 today/ 14 season
No noted local butterflies but first day seeing migrant monarchs.
Monarchs 5 today/ 5 season
Predictions:
Winds will have a SW component tomorrow and will stiffen a bit as the day
continues. I expect the first half of the day will be better than the
latter.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>)
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at:
www.harriscenter.org
Twelve other folks joined the effort this evening. Ninety nine birds were in the first hour and most appeared to be headed west. This brings the season total to 3,007.
Date: 8/29/26 8:33 am From: Joshua Jarvis <menasor77...> Subject: [NHBirds] The time of year birds make odd friends. Richmond
No unusual sightings yet but last Sunday the August bird drought lifted and I saw the birds entering their fall habit of flocking with unusual species.
A female scarlet tanager on a garden fence out in the open with bluebirds.
A mixed flock of pine warblers, red eyed vireo, and chipping sparrow.
I also saw a couple nighthawks. No flocks yet, but that could just be working nights limiting my birding time.
Date: 8/28/26 6:34 pm From: Milton Trimitsis <trimitsis...> Subject: [NHBirds] Nighthawk drought over in Sullivan
This evening I had a steady stream of nighthawks flying northeast to southwest while I was doing my evening sheep move. I counted 250 in 15 minutes starting at 6:35. They were already moving when I arrived in the field, so I suspect the total number moving by was significantly higher. The drumlins of my home farm are usually nighthawk repellents -- exactly wrong topography I believe -- so this was by far my high count here. Many of the nighthawks were far to my east, so there may have been more that were too distant to pick up with binoculars. The flight seemed to be roughly following Otter Brook.
Observation start time: 08:15:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Miki Foley, Phil Brown
Visitors:
16, a little low for a Friday but all expressed excitement for migration
season.
Weather:
I was once again greeted with dense fog upon my arrival at the summit
today. North Pack was in and out of view which technically means my
visibility was worse than yesterday. Better visibility arrived about 90
minutes into the count day. Winds started out SW and slowly switched to NW
by end of day. Temperatures again climbed 10 degrees F in the first hour
once we were out of the clouds and fog.
Raptor Observations:
Phil found arguably the two best birds of the day. A migrating Osprey flew
high directly overhead hoping to allude our watchful eyes. Off to the west
he located a brown Northern Harrier, narrowing down the identification to
not an adult male. Lastly, at the risk of being chided by my peers, I
determined a red-tailed hawk to be an early migrant for the species. First
found by Miki, I observed the bird for almost 10 minutes fly SW in a glide
from a great distance to out of view past Grand Monadnock.
Non-raptor Observations:
2 Bay-breasted Warblers. 3 Yellow-rumpled warblers, 1 Eastern Towhee, flock
of 16 American Goldfinch, 1 Gray Catbird, 2 Red-eyed Vireo, 1 local
Broad-winged hawk, 3 local Red-tailed hawk,
High count Turkey vulture 4
High count Common Raven 4
RTHU 5 today/ 11 season
Butterflies: Red-spotted purple
Predictions:
Light NW winds predicted for most of the day. It will feel chilly compared
to recent weather with temperatures in the mid-50�s F to start the day.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>)
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at:
www.harriscenter.org
Six of us enjoyed a few more birds this evening and for an interesting change of pace most were flying south. The temp started at 83 degrees and the wind was from the west and slid a little to the south by the end of the watch.
Date: 8/28/26 5:31 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 1,051 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
The first 4 digit count of the season. And in a NW wind. But then a few nights ago Concord had a low count with SW winds.
For awhile there there was a lot of cross-traffic making me throw many back uncounted. Then the big breakthrough - going on 7:00 a steady stream formed moving south for 40 minutes where they were all counted nicely one-by-one and two-by-two for a total of 449.
Thank you Lori and hubby for stopping by and helping out.
Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
Date: 8/28/26 11:50 am From: Randy Langer <randylanger52...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] 657 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
What long and tall tails will we hear from Willy Wonka tonight?
Rob, hope to join you again Monday evening, enjoying a wknd away in York Maine. Randy
On Thu, Aug 27, 2026, 20:31 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds < <nhbirds...> wrote:
> At long last pure SW winds blew raising high expectations that simply were > not met. During the 4:00 o'clock hour 125 were counted with pretty steady > movement until it stopped at 7:00. The biggest flock was only 79 > (twice). But I had fresh new recruits to help, namely Merrimack County > birders Lynn and Judy, who passed on Concord, got to see plenty of birds up > close northbound, and savored their rich, high-end, luxury dark chocolate > candy bar. Later Lori stopped by for a visit. I welcome all of you. > > In Concord, they don't ask "Where's the beef?" Instead they're saying, > "Where's the chocolate?" It's up here, with the nighthawks. > > And now we have Phil Brown racking them up in Hancock and Keene. I bet > they at least get lollipops down there. The season total here stands at a > timid 2,876. > > Rob Woodward > Laconia, NH > > -- > To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit: > https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "NHBirds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...> > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<638219064.1779098.1787877108196...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<638219064.1779098.1787877108196...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . >
Date: 8/28/26 8:53 am From: Suzanne Allison <suz.allison...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] nighthawk watch in Hancock, 8/27 - 1,316 nighthawks
We were too late when we arrived at the stone bridge in Bennington, over
the Contoocook (arrived at 7:30 and stayed until it was hard to pick out
birds at 8:00) - but we saw 11 nighthawks (most individuals, though one
group of 3) and a couple of chimney swifts. Where were you watching from at
Powder Mill Pond?
Suzanne Allison & David Erikson
On Thu, Aug 27, 2026 at 9:30 PM 'Phil Brown' via NHBirds <
<nhbirds...> wrote:
> Biggest night of the season thus far at Powder Mill Pond in Hancock, with
> a flight of 1,316 southbound birds - mainly in two pushes, initially a few
> hundred between 520-530 pm, then between 615-730 with directional flight
> noted during those times. In between, we had dozens to hundreds of birds in
> the sky gliding up on thermals, soaring into the wind, and presumably
> foraging high over the surrounding pond and wetlands. This pushes our
> season tally up to 3,577 so far. No lollipops here; only rainbows and the
> resident porcupine.
>
> Phil Brown
> Hancock, NH
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > ---
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> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<470804066.1789182.1787880610845...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<470804066.1789182.1787880610845...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
Tonight I was joined by one birder to watch and count the egrets come in. I had my highest total for Great Egrets yet with 240, along with 61 Snowy Egrets. Only one Common Nighthawk tonight, and it was heading west.
Date: 8/27/26 6:30 pm From: 'Phil Brown' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] nighthawk watch in Hancock, 8/27 - 1,316 nighthawks
Biggest night of the season thus far at Powder Mill Pond in Hancock, with a flight of 1,316 southbound birds - mainly in two pushes, initially a few hundred between 520-530 pm, then between 615-730 with directional flight noted during those times. In between, we had dozens to hundreds of birds in the sky gliding up on thermals, soaring into the wind, and presumably foraging high over the surrounding pond and wetlands. This pushes our season tally up to 3,577 so far. No lollipops here; only rainbows and the resident porcupine.
Phil BrownHancock, NH
Date: 8/27/26 6:24 pm From: Nate Marchessault <nate...> Subject: [NHBirds] Looking for nighthawks? Explore this NH survey suitability map
Hi all,
With all the excitement about nighthawks on the listserv, I thought I would share a Common Nighthawk survey suitability analysis map that I worked on over the course of two GIS classes at Antioch. The interactive map can be used to find potential productive locations for surveying nighthawks throughout New Hampshire, and you can explore it here <https://aune-es.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/basic/index.html?appid=213149176051442391361e084b788fc6> .
The purpose of the analysis (and accompanying map) was to identify locations for performing nighthawk surveys throughout New Hampshire. In general, the darker green an area is, the higher its modeled suitability for surveying. Note that the analysis does not incorporate public access, so you will need to do that additional homework yourself. The map also includes points representing locations where large numbers of nighthawks have been submitted to eBird, with darker red points indicating higher counts. Note that for these points, many represent an eBird hotspot or personal location, and might not represent exactly where the observer was standing. If you're using the map to search for a location, I would recommend focusing on the darkest green areas possible, or at least areas with suitability scores of >15 (green to dark green on the map).
The suitability analysis was generated using two submodels. One attempts to predict where large numbers of nighthawks might be moving through, using low elevations within a watershed and proximity to large rivers and water bodies. The other predicts locations with features that make them productive for surveying, including sky openness, proximity to migrating birds, and proximity to roads and populated areas. You can read more about the analysis in this poster <https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g1JVoM4otFbwWSuUS8IF-tZZA7JA4rkt/view?usp=drive_link>, which I presented last year at the Monadnock Region Natural History Conference.
We're in the heat of migration now, but there's still a solid week of nighthawk movement. The best time to look for nighthawks is from the last two weeks in August into the first week of September on nights without precipitation between 5:30 and 7:30 PM.
If anyone uses the map to find new locations, I'd love to hear about your results. Feel free to email me your numbers and/or eBird checklists. If there is significant interest, the Harris Center may expand on data collection in the future.
We had a good turnout out folks--fourteen scanning the skies. The nighthawks were not as cooperative--67 birds for the evening. The season total is 2,645.
Date: 8/27/26 5:31 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 657 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
At long last pure SW winds blew raising high expectations that simply were not met. During the 4:00 o'clock hour 125 were counted with pretty steady movement until it stopped at 7:00. The biggest flock was only 79 (twice). But I had fresh new recruits to help, namely Merrimack County birders Lynn and Judy, who passed on Concord, got to see plenty of birds up close northbound, and savored their rich, high-end, luxury dark chocolate candy bar. Later Lori stopped by for a visit. I welcome all of you.
In Concord, they don't ask "Where's the beef?" Instead they're saying, "Where's the chocolate?" It's up here, with the nighthawks.
And now we have Phil Brown racking them up in Hancock and Keene. I bet they at least get lollipops down there. The season total here stands at a timid 2,876.
Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
Date: 8/27/26 12:27 pm From: <ian...> Subject: [NHBirds] New blog post - there was a surprise visitor when I went to visit the herons.
There was a surprise visitor when I went to visit the herons. And the Eastons had a busy morning. There are lots of photos in my new blog post, take a look at https://tinyurl.com/ymt9e78y
Date: 8/26/26 7:10 pm From: 'Phil Brown' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Monadnock Region nighthawk counts
The Harris Center has again (for a fifth consecutive year) been coordinating a nighthawk watch from private land in Hancock along the shore of Powder Mill Pond.Volunteers estimated 926 nighthawks during tonight's watch, bringing this 'count' (which can be frustrating, as birds seem to travel in multiple directions frequently to feed here) to 2,261 for the season since the start date of August 20. We plan to count until September 4.
Elsewhere in the Monadnock Region, two volunteers have been counting regularly in downtown Peterborough, where results have yet to be posted for this evening.Away from the river about a mile at a higher elevation, I saw zero nighthawks during a field trip focused on birds, insects, and plants, but the story was quite different in Keene. Tonight, during a Harris Center annual field trip led by Brett Thelen, Nate Marchessault, and Cliff Seifer, an incredible 2,390 birds were tallied at the Stone Arch Village near Green Wagon Farm between 530 and 7 pm!
Phil BrownHancock, NH (for the Harris Center for Conservation Education)
We had nice conditions; it was 80 degrees and a southerly wind. Apparently the nighthawks didn't agree with this assessment, as we had three groups pass by of 73, 38 and 39. Not sure what to make of this. Rob's number is posted and Don Clark, who is watching along the Connecticut River, had over 2,000 this evening. Someday we'll get this figured out...
Date: 8/26/26 5:48 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 713 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Now 5 out of the 10 counts this season have featured NW winds. But a decent count was made anyways, possibly because the NW winds were light then turning calm by 6:00. It was a funny count. 86 between 4 and 5:oo, then nothing until 6:00 when a flock of 340 was counted then a few hundred more after 7:00.
I thank Kathy Wheeler for her help again, sorry you missed the big one. But she did get her chocolate "reward" after all. By my count that still leaves 99 deluxe dark chocolate candy bars for visitors and helpers. Bribes they say?!?!? Ha! Generous reward are they. What do the cheapskates hand out in Concord? Garden vegetables??
This is true. I am starting to see Concord defects up here. You are to know you are welcome here. You will be granted full asylum.
Question of The Day: Do nighthawks migrate at night? Here is some new technical data that supports our belief that they do not. In the most recent issue of NH Audubon's "Afield" newsletter there is an article on several individual birds that have been tracked by Motus. A nighthawk was tagged in Maine, flew down the east coast, across the Caribbean, and pinged a motus tower in La Dorada, Colombia (not its final destination.). I measured the distance at 2,742 miles. Let's subtract the 1200 miles over the Caribbean and 2 days to fly that. Let's also subtract 8 days of unfavorable weather (1 in 4 days). I calculate 26 days to cover 1542 miles at 25 mph comes to about 2 1/2 hours per day. Say 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Just right.
Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
Date: 8/26/26 5:09 pm From: Ashton Almeida <ashtonipod...> Subject: [NHBirds] 197 Great Egrets, 64 Snowy Egrets, 0 Common Nighthawks
I arrived at the egret roost early tonight to get the most accurate count possible, and it paid off. I counted a total of 197 Great Egrets and 64 Snowy Egrets, and I am confident I did not miss a single bird.
However, the Common Nighthawks did not deliver tonight, as I didn't see any during the two hours I was there. I am hopeful to see more of them throughout the week!
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:45:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers: Chris Newton, Chuck Carlson, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 37
Busy day on the observatory today with many personal interactions and visitors excited for the regular season arrival. Observers were tempted up by the weather conditions today. Thank you Tom M., Tom D., and Chuck for sharing part of your day with me and keeping me company. A face from the far past, just not my past, visited the hawk watch today. Chris Newton and Tricia Newton from Florida introduced themselves to me today. It would seem that we just missed each other 15 years ago when he moved away and I began visiting. It is great to witness the timeline of this project through the years. Chris wants to send greetings to all he once spent time with. New visitors but frequent participants at Wachusett gave Pack a try today. A nice welcome to Reeves Briggs and Karla Briggs.
Weather: The day felt like more typical August weather on the summit today. A 62 F opening hour quickly jumped ten degrees F in the first hour. Temperatures topped out at 80 F with light NW winds all day. Mount Washington made a rare August appearance but haze and low clouds quickly obscured it. Lafayette was within our visibility all day.
Raptor Observations: The 16 total migrants today exceeded our total of the previous 2 days. However, the bird of the day was not a migrant. An adult male peregrine falcon showed up at the end of the 3 PM DST hour. Playing with a raven giving great close looks.
Butterflies: American White Admiral, American Fritillary, American Lady
Predictions: Changeable weather and a chance of showers the next couple of days. Winds and weather improve this weekend. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 8/26/26 4:16 pm From: Jon Woolf <jsw...> Subject: [NHBirds] Nighthawks over Wellington Hill
I was just out for an evening walk around Wellington Hill (east side of
Manchester, exit 8 off I-93) and much to my surprise I saw a sizable
number of nighthawks swirling overhead. I've seen individual nighthawks
here a few times, but never a large flock of them. They were going all
different directions -- feeding on an insect hatch? Getting an accurate
count was impossible, but my best guess is somewhere between 50 and 100
birds.
Date: 8/26/26 11:08 am From: Patience Chamberlin <patiencechamberlin...> Subject: [NHBirds] New Castle/Kittery/Pmouth Nighthawks
So there ARE Nighthawks on the coast! A huge flight last evening at @5:45pm. I estimated 300 birds all flying generally west near the river. It lasted about 15 minutes. They just kept coming in about three different swarms.
Wowweez!! Have not seen that in our ten years here.
Twelve folks scanned the skies and found 221 nighthawks. It was a challenging effort as the birds appeared from every direction and in small groups; I think about twenty was the largest group.
There continues to be good Chimney Swift numbers and blackbird groups flying to roost each evening. The Double-crested Cormorants fly down the Merrimack most every night. Only the second Osprey was spotted for this season and a Cooper's Hawk landed on a nearby building offering great views in the scopes.
However, a new challenge has been introduced to monitoring for nighthawks: bribery! Who knew that inducements such as candy bars would be necessary to get folks to watch for the spectacle of nighthawk migration. (Although during the slow patches I thought I overheard some mutterings from the chocoholics about taste treats at other monitoring sites...)
Date: 8/26/26 5:58 am From: '<raqbirds...>' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] eight species of shore birds on Merrimack R. Boscawen
Eight species of shore birds (plovers and sandpipers) wererecorded on a scouting trip along the Merrimack River on August 26, 2026. I washelping the new President of the Merrimack Valley Bird Club (based in northernMassachusetts) plan several field trips to the upper Merrimack River Valley,which is vastly different from the habitats of the river in Massachusetts!
Most of our time was spent scouting boat launches as well asother river access sites for land-based birding. Almost all the shorebirds wereseen at Jamie Welch Park at the end of Depot Street in Boscawen. This nicesandbar is accessible on foot. At the end of the day we paddled from Jamie Welchto the Penacook boat launch at the mouth of the Contoocook River being usheredalong by at least 50 Common Nighthawks, a wonderfully sublime way to end a fullday along the upper Merrimack Valley.
BTW- only one other boat on the river all day.
Highlights:
Common Merganser- about 25 just downstream of Sewall’s FallsDam in Concord representing two family groups. This species is a ratheruncommon breeder in Merrimack County.
Killdeer- several.
Semipalmated Plover- one.
Lesser Yellowlegs one.
Greater Yellowlegs- two.
Semipalmated Sandpiper- one or two.
Least Sandpiper- 5-10 (we might have seen one flock in twodifferent places, at the beginning and end of our 12 hour day)
Solitary Sandpiper-several.
“Spotted” Sandpiper- at least 13. All unspotted at this timeof the year.
Bald Eagle- 4-5, everywhere along the river.
Osprey- two or three.
Red-shouldered Hawk- one.
Common Nighthawk- at least 50 coursing over agricultural lands adjacent to thee river. Fo the record- these were all seen between 7:00-7:30 p.m. Great Egret- one.
Green Heron- four.
Cedar Waxwing- 100+
warblers- about 12 species including several Prairies and onParula.
Bob Quinn
Webster, NH
"Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons and daughters of the earth." Chief Seattle
I was joined by four others tonight to witness the egrets coming into the roost and to watch the nighthawks. We saw a large number of nighthawks heading north, along with another group heading west. This marks my highest count of Snowy Egrets and Common Nighthawks for this location.
Date: 8/25/26 5:19 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 243 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Despte yet another night of unfavorable NW winds, light though they may have been, a modest count of nighthawks made it past. Myfirst visitor, David Adrien, hailing all the way from Massachusetts, arrived before me and already put some points on the board. Along came Randy Langer who spotted them far and wide. But if I heard his disappointing cry once I heard it a thousand times: "Single bird...." But you know he is a team player when the largest flock of the count showed up minutes after he left.
Soon the aforementioned gentlemen were replaced by Kathy Wheeler and Sue Francesco, generously providing comfort, society, and good will. But I could not reciprocate because the nighthawks stopped flying by then and, worst of all, I forgot the chocolate!
This afternoon , I saw approximately two hundred night hawks over the village of west swanzey. I remember this being a good place to see them back when I used to live there so it brought back memories for sure
Date: 8/25/26 5:01 pm From: 'DEBRA M POWERS' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 43 Common Nighthawks Rollinsford
In a little over an hour we had a conservative estimate of 43 Nighthawks in Rollinsford tonight. My highest count ever for that area. ~Deb Powers-South Berwick Maine
Observation start time: 08:15:00
Observation end time: 15:30:00
Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers:
Visitors:
22. Many expressing excitement for the coming regular season.
Weather:
Chilly late August arrival to the observatory. There was a brisk wind and
temperatures were in the mid 50�s F. Wind out of the west changed to NW
after 2 DST and then WNW by the end of day.
Raptor Observations:
6 raptors today including the first Osprey of the season and the first
Northern Harrier. All birds gave a nice close unaided eye pass except the
Northern Harrier. As typical of a hawk watch, I scanned a kettle of Common
Ravens and found a juvenile Northern Harrier amongst them.
Non-raptor Observations:
One local Bald Eagle and three Red-tailed hawks. Blue-headed Vireo and
Black-and-white Warbler
RTHU 0 today/ 4 season.
Butterflies: American White Admiral and Red-spotted purple
Predictions:
Winds from the NW through 3 DST. Looks like the best day of the next three.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>)
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at:
www.harriscenter.org
Date: 8/25/26 7:31 am From: 'DENNIS SKILLMAN' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 102 Common Nighthawks, East Kingston
First spotted by Debby migrating over our house this morning starting at 10 and ending by10:30 AM . We tried not to double count, they were hunting in circles heading south. A first for yard birds!
Dennis Skillman http//:dennisskillman.myportfolio.com
Date: 8/25/26 4:56 am From: 'Geoff Niswander' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Re: Just across the bridge, 2 rare ones
Apparently the Crested caracara hasn’t been seen since last Thursday, the
20th, so my apologies for that. Or at least no one has posted it on eBird.
But I wouldn’t yet conclude it isn’t still around, as there is enough area
out there that it could easily stay out of sight for a while.
On Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 7:40:03 AM UTC-4 Geoff Niswander wrote:
> [image: untitled shoot-319.jpeg][image: untitled shoot-205.jpeg][image:
> untitled shoot-272.jpeg]Greetings to all:
> Extending beyond the NH/ME border just a little bit, there has been a
> Crested caracara being seen pretty regularly in the Kittery-Eliot area of
> Maine. It’s been located mostly around a working dairy farm just a 2 or 3
> minute drive away from the Kittery Trading Post, actually up the road the
> KTP sits along that intersects with Rte. 1. which is called Wilson Rd. Look
> for a little parking lot on the right, at a cornfield, with a Purple Heart
> sign. The bird has been seen out in that field quite a bit. I’ve been
> looking for this bird, but have not managed to see it. However I do have a
> couple of instances where I’ve been out looking for it, seen nothing, then
> moved on to bird #2 here, only to have the Crested caracara show itself a
> short time later 😀, Murphy’s law of birding nicely at work!
>
> Secondly, hanging out along the Piscataqua in the area of the Shipyard,
> and the Kittery side across from the Shipyard, there has been a Great white
> heron being seen regularly. It’s likely an immature heron, a bird on my
> personal bucket list for decades! So it was a thrill to see and photograph
> it. Very generally, in the area of the Kittery town boat launch, it has
> been moving/feeding. As a few of us watched and took photos, our hearts
> went to our throats when it picked up a broken-off fishing lure and fishing
> line several times, looking it over, apparently deciding wether or not to
> swallow it. But in the end, its intelligence paid off, and it did not
> thankfully. We raised our voices at it, while it was doing this, but
> otherwise we were powerless to prevent such a tragedy. There was no way
> even, to get to the water.
>
Date: 8/25/26 4:40 am From: 'Geoff Niswander' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Just across the bridge, 2 rare ones
[image: untitled shoot-319.jpeg][image: untitled shoot-205.jpeg][image:
untitled shoot-272.jpeg]Greetings to all:
Extending beyond the NH/ME border just a little bit, there has been a
Crested caracara being seen pretty regularly in the Kittery-Eliot area of
Maine. It’s been located mostly around a working dairy farm just a 2 or 3
minute drive away from the Kittery Trading Post, actually up the road the
KTP sits along that intersects with Rte. 1. which is called Wilson Rd. Look
for a little parking lot on the right, at a cornfield, with a Purple Heart
sign. The bird has been seen out in that field quite a bit. I’ve been
looking for this bird, but have not managed to see it. However I do have a
couple of instances where I’ve been out looking for it, seen nothing, then
moved on to bird #2 here, only to have the Crested caracara show itself a
short time later 😀, Murphy’s law of birding nicely at work!
Secondly, hanging out along the Piscataqua in the area of the Shipyard, and
the Kittery side across from the Shipyard, there has been a Great white
heron being seen regularly. It’s likely an immature heron, a bird on my
personal bucket list for decades! So it was a thrill to see and photograph
it. Very generally, in the area of the Kittery town boat launch, it has
been moving/feeding. As a few of us watched and took photos, our hearts
went to our throats when it picked up a broken-off fishing lure and fishing
line several times, looking it over, apparently deciding wether or not to
swallow it. But in the end, its intelligence paid off, and it did not
thankfully. We raised our voices at it, while it was doing this, but
otherwise we were powerless to prevent such a tragedy. There was no way
even, to get to the water.
This evening at the Route 107 Roost in Seabrook, I had a great showing of both egret species, totaling 205 Great Egrets and 37 Snowy Egrets. I also had a high count of 82 Common Nighthawks for the location, as they kept coming in from the northwest non-stop.
eBird List: Wood Duck 1 Mallard 1 Mourning Dove 3 Common Nighthawk 82 Chimney Swift 2 Snowy Egret 37 Great Egret 205 Great Blue Heron 2 Red-tailed Hawk 1 Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 Eastern Wood-Pewee 1 Carolina Wren 1 American Robin 6 Cedar Waxwing 2 Common Grackle 6
Date: 8/24/26 5:43 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 904 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
There! That's more like it! Favorable SE winds combined with a date in the last week of August produced our first good count of the season. The best part was that there was a steady flow - no huge groups -from when I started at 4:30 up until 7:30. Note to nighthawk watchers: I counted 116 Between 4:30 and 5:30, later this week I will even start at 4:00. Over the course of the season, those extra counts add up.
So the big flock showed up just as Jan was walking by. Wow! How does she do that?! Sunset watchers gathered tonight for another sunset of 10 on the "Franklin Falls Sunset Scale."
This week is the expected big push for the season. Get thee to a nighthawk watch. But not Concord. Zeke has plenty of friends, helpers, assistants, and aides-de-camp. Up here in Franklin I am solitary, wistful, and forlornful. I need company, society, and help. Here's my final offer: a fancy chocolate candy bar to the first 100 visitors to Franklin Falls, while supplies last.
On the way home tonight in the fading light a whip-poor-wiil flew across the road, capping off a good nightjar night.
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Glen Chretien
Observers:
Visitors: 16 Not bad considering the road was closed the first half of the day and it rained in the afternoon.
Weather: Could see to the base of the Sandwich range upon arrival. Their peaks were obscured by low clouds. Haze increased throughout the morning as I lost peaks in the distance one by one leaving just Crotched mountain as a landmark. As I was watching the haze thicken I almost missed the narrow band of heavy showers approaching from the SW. The count was interrupted from 12:30-1:30 EST as I took shelter in the picnic pavilion. Temperatures warmed from 62 F to 68 F just before the rain arrived.
Raptor Observations: There was a bottom of the hour trend today. The first migrant of the season was a bald eagle just before 11 DST. A sharp- shinned hawk moved on just before noon DST. Both moved SW into the breeze. Just before 1 PM DST, two broad-winged hawks moved on to the SE.
Non-raptor Observations: A Black-throated blue warbler and 4 chipping sparrows felt unusual for the site. They were seen first thing in the morning.
RTHU 4 today/ 4 season.
Butterflies: American Lady/Red-spotted Admiral/Red-spotted purple
Predictions: More chance of showers but a more favorable west wind. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Glen Chretien (<b0ba_fet...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
There were nine folks scanning with great success this evening, as we had 660 nighthawks with a nice number flying directly overhead. This gave folks a view of the wing bars and the white at the throat of the adult males.
Chimney Swifts are also present in good numbers, suggesting insect hatches are happening.
Date: 8/24/26 10:19 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 24, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for August 24th, 2026.
A BRIDLED TERN was seen off of the coast of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye
on August 16th, but has not been relocated.
2 FORSTER’S TERNS were seen at Peirce Island in Portsmouth on the 23rd, and
earlier in the week a FORSTER’S TERN was seen in Back Channel in New Castle
and Portsmouth, also in Fort Stark, and from Odiorne Point State Park in
Rye.
A LITTLE GULL was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on August 23rd.
A BAIRD’S SANDPIPER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on August 16
th-19th.
3-4 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals during the
past week.
A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at the Durham Town Landing and Jackson’s Landing
on the Oyster River all during the past week, and it was last reported on
the 22nd.
A HUDSONIAN GODWIT was seen in the south end of Hampton Harbor on August 24
th.
3 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS were seen at the Eliot Bridge on Gulf Road in Dover
on August 18th.
2 “WESTERN” WILLETS were seen at Odiorne Point State Park on the 18th, and
1 was seen here on the 23rd.
2 juvenile WESTERN SANDPIPERS were seen in Plaice Cove in Hampton on August
24th.
A juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen roosting in a tree along
Route 1A and Tyngsboro Street in Seabrook on August 24th.
7 LITTLE BLUE HERONS were seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located
west of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach on August 22nd, 1
was seen Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on the 23rd, 1 was seen at Amazon
Park Pond in Somersworth on the 22nd, 1 was seen at Pickering Ponds in
Rochester on the 23rd, and 1 was seen at Philbrick Marsh in North Hampton
on the 23rd.
A juvenile GLOSSY IBIS was seen in the Connecticut River in Charlestown on
August 23rd.
A SNOWY EGRET was seen at Jackson’s Landing in Durham on August 18th.
A LEAST BITTERN was seen at World End Pond in Salem on August 23rd.
5 GREEN HERONS were seen along the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on August 19th.
An AMERICAN WIGEON was seen at the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Colebrook
on August 20th.
2 SANDHILL CRANES continue to be seen in fields along Plains Road in Monroe
and were last reported on August 23rd.
A GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was seen at the Concord Airport on August 17th, and 1
was seen at the Pease International Tradeport in Newington on the 18th.
2 CAPE MAY WARBLERS were seen in Croydon on August 22nd.
COMMON NIGHTHAWK migration has already begun with over 1,000 recorded by
observers in Concord since August 17th. Volunteer-observers are welcome!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Last evening there was only one nighthawk spotted, but we had mist blowing in from the south most of the time. The Chimney Swifts didn't mind, but the nighthawks must have voted to ignore our river corridor.
Tonight was quite different as we counted 394 nighthawks. There was a good number of Chimney Swifts as well (80 plus).
Date: 8/23/26 10:40 am From: <jim...> <jim...> Subject: [NHBirds] Some Mid-summer Birds -- PHOTOS
I have just published a new blog, the first 2/3s of which is devoted to birds including among others: merlin, bald eagle, and magnolia warbler. If you are interested, you can see it here:
Date: 8/23/26 3:56 am From: Ashton Almeida <ashtonipod...> Subject: [NHBirds] Great Egret Roost IS BACK!
On my way home from work this evening, I passed the Great Egret roost on Route 107 in Seabrook and was amazed to see how many were already there. Last year on September 30th, I had my high count of 215. I wasn't able to stop and count tonight, but it looks like there are already over a hundred. I'll be keeping a count from now on, but wanted to let everyone know in case you'd like to see it!
Baltimore Oriole migration seems to be in full swing. There are male and female adults and juveniles resting and refueling in my yard today and for the past week. Both male and female Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are stopping by as well, though not as many or as frequently.
This evening in Dover from the roof of the Washington Street Parking Garage, I had a respectable 60 Nighthawks, mostly in small groups and with no discernible direction of migration: many flying north, some south west, and a few even heading due east. This seems to be par for the course this time of year for Dover, as I had 63 on Wednesday and 39 last Thursday.
Other birds were moving through as well, including hundreds of Herring Gulls, some Ring and Great Black-backed Gulls, and the resident American Kestrel came and visited the downtown smoke stack. Of particular interest were a group of swallows that came through right at sunset migrating south west and mingled with a group of Chimney Swifts before departing. Photos lead me to suspect Purple Martins, but I am not sure they are identifiable.
Date: 8/21/26 5:28 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 76 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
At last, tonight the three day drought ended, as unfavorable NW winds turned and blew from the SE. After counting none each of the last three nights I savored each one tonight. They seemed to be lazily floating along, mostly southbound. Many were counted as singles and pairs which we don't see very often. I stayed late enough to witness a spectacular sunset; this is nighthawk watching at its finest, regardless of the numbers.
Date: 8/20/26 7:28 am From: Bill Duffy <dill.buffy...> Subject: [NHBirds] Common grackle migration - Bradford
I have a few trail cameras on my property to monitor wildlife. On the morning of August 15th, one camera recorded at least 60 grackles passing through an open patch in the woods next to a small stream over the course of about 5 minutes. Several grackles would land at a time and forage about in the leaves and duff in front of the camera and then take flight heading north up the stream as more birds flew in and replaced them.
Three of us braved the wilds of Orford NH this evening on a grassy knoll overlooking the CT River and carefully counted 783. But surely there were more!! All but a handful were heading north. Why were they all heading north tonight?
Eight folks turned up to track the 280 nighthawks this evening. Most of the birds were zooming north like their tail feathers were on fire. The puzzler is that Rob is twenty-two miles north of the Concord site, and he had zero nighthawks the last two evenings. Someday we hope to figure this stuff out...
Date: 8/19/26 6:24 am From: Alfred Maley <alfredmaley...> Subject: [NHBirds] Gobsmacked and Dumbfounded - The Barred Owls Nest Late, Right Under My Nose
Last night at 11:55 PM on 18 August 2026 I was shocked to hear a chorus of
young Barred Owl fledglings giving their food begging calls from various
parts of the forest around the house. Apparently one of the parents had
arrived with a food item. The chorus lasted for about 10 minutes before
things settled down.
Back in late March when there was no sign of nesting in the boxes in the
yard (nor in any of the other eight boxes that were occupied in 2025) I
concluded it was due to a lack of food (mice, voles, chipmunks) after the
2025 mast crop failure. I decided to see if I could remedy the situation by
feeding the adults to bring the female into breeding condition - they
looked quite skinny. All during April and May I made sure there was food on
the table, but seemingly to no avail as the nest boxes remained empty.
By mid June the adults could be seen roosting together in the daytime in
the white pines next to the driveway. Also, both adults had taken to flying
into the thick pines behind the neighbor’s house with de-headed chipmunks
and other rodents. I attributed this to a desire to avoid the eyes of the
Cooper’s Hawks that patrol the yard and will try to steal food items from
the owls if possible.
It appears that Mrs. Owl did indeed come into breeding condition by early
May and had selected a well concealed hawk nest (Broadwing?) high in the
pines and had begun incubation. By mid July the young would be big enough
to move about and begin flight training. Now they are scattered about the
trees that nearly surround the house, indicating that they can fly about
with some facility.
My mouse traps are now not as empty as in April and the mast crop and white
pine cone crop are looking good, so prey numbers are on the upswing. The
young will stay in the territory into October, until their hunting lessons
are complete. All's right with the world, at least on a few acres of it.
Five of us had a nice early season flight of 677. The last half hour was particularly impressive with a feeding frenzy of 260 to our north.
The Chimney Swift count was only a third of yesterday's count, but both the swifts and nighthawks were feeding pretty high and we may not have been able to spot some of the swifts.
Last night we had a Peregrine on one of the church steeples; this evening we had a Merlin in a nearby tree. The variation from night to night is always fascinating.
Date: 8/18/26 5:11 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 0 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
It turned into a clear day after all here in sunny Franklin. But with unfavorable NW winds, nighthawks were not moving. Even after the winds turned calm sometime after 6 they would not budge. The air was full of dragonflies meaning plenty of food around but still nighthawks could not be coaxed off their roost.
Yesterday Zeke mentioned the abundance of Chimney Swifts in Concord. We get a small handfull nearly daily migrating down the river. Notice they cleared out of Laconia by late July yet there are plenty to be had in Portsmouth and Concord for example. Do they vacate the smaller cities in favor of bigger cities to congregate before migration?
Tomorrow's forecast looks more favorable.
Date: 8/18/26 10:53 am From: birdrecords <birdrecords...> Subject: [NHBirds] Joy of Birding: Migration Is in the Air!
Migration Is in the Air
One of my favorite birding spectacles is underway: shorebird migration. I love watching sandpipers dance along the coastline. Fall is one of the most exciting seasons for birders. Shorebirds are already on the move and warbler migration is beginning. Enjoy the beauty of this season of change.
This month's articles capture the magic of fall birding. Relive the highlights of last autumn in the Fall 2025: Season Summary<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/season-summary-fall-2025/> by Ben Griffith, featuring a remarkable Common Cuckoo, only the state's second Trumpeter Swan, the fourth Bell's Vireo, and many other memorable sightings. Then get ready to see what surprises this fall migration has in store.
Joy of Birding is the online home of New Hampshire Bird Records, a publication that has documented New Hampshire's bird sightings, seasons, and birding stories for more than 40 years. The transition from print to online has allowed us to continue sharing the stories of New Hampshire's birds while making them freely available to everyone-from experienced birders to those just beginning to explore the world of birds.
Visit the Joy of Birding (https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/) homepage to explore the latest articles and sign up for our monthly newsletter, featuring new stories, seasonal highlights, and birding news from around the Granite State delivered directly to your inbox.
Happy Birding!
Grace
Grace McCulloch
She/Her
Community Science Project Leader
New Hampshire Audubon
84 Silk Farm Road
Concord, NH 03301
www.nhaudubon.org<http://www.nhaudubon.org/> Email: <gmcculloch...>
Date: 8/18/26 8:10 am From: Sean Beckett <sean...> Subject: [NHBirds] Ecuador birding trip with Vermont nature center this February
Hi all, and happy Common Nighthawk season,
We wanted to invite you to check out an upcoming birding adventure to
Ecuador with North Branch Nature Center on Feb 17-27. Amazing birds,
unbelievable ecosystems, a great group of like-minded travelers, and a
stellar guide (Chip Darmstadt). Toucans, tanagers, cock-of-the-rock, and
even Andean condors.
On a personal note, I traveled with Chip to Ecuador as a teenager on a
similar itinerary long ago. These birds, these birding lodges, and Chip's
passionate leadership were big catalysts in my subsequent pursuit of a
career in nature—I'm excited for others to be similarly transformed by the
experience.
All the proceeds of our birding trips are reinvested in our youth nature
education work here in Vermont, so these trips are a great way to combine
philanthropy with your passion for birds. And we offset the trip's carbon
footprint (including your flights) through wilderness conservation projects
with the Northeast Wilderness Trust.
The nighthawk migration is back in swing. There were 45 Sunday evening and 54 tonight. We had a few fly directly overhead, but it was fun to see a few feeding in the vicinity of numerous Chimney Swifts.
We were surrounded all evening by Chimney Swifts (count was 160) and the river corridor had a persistent string of blackbirds (over 600).
All are welcome to join the migration monitoring, here, in Concord. We monitor from the top level of the Capital Commons parking garage on Storrs St. from 5:30-7:30 pm.
Date: 8/17/26 5:23 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 139 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
The rain held off and the day turned out to be hot and sunny after all here in Franklin. Favorable SE winds blew from moderate to light to calm by the end of the count at 7:30.
Another good early season count with birds moving westerly, to the south, and northerly. Again, most were counted during the 6 o'clock hour.
Tomorrow could see rain in which case the count will resume Wednesday.
Date: 8/17/26 2:58 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 17, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for August 17th, 2026.
A BRIDLED TERN was seen off of the coast of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye
on August 16th. A FORSTER’S TERN was seen in the Back Channel in New Castle
and Portsmouth on the 17th, and an ARCTIC TERN was seen in Rye Harbor on
the 13th.
A SOUTH POLAR SKUA was seen at Jeffrey’s Ledge on August 10th.
Birders on a research vessel visiting offshore waters recorded the
following highlights: 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, a PARASITIC JAEGER, a
LEACH’S STORM-PETREL, 4 CORY'S SHEARWATERS, and 5 GREAT SHEARWATERS.
A BAIRD’S SANDPIPER was seen off of the coast of Odiorne Point State Park
in Rye on August 16th, and 1 was seen in a beaver pond in Peterborough on
the 10th. A DUNLIN was seen at Plaice Cove in Hampton on August 11th.
2 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals on August 12th,
and a GREAT CORMORANT was seen here on the 15th.
A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at the Durham Town Landing and Jackson’s Landing
on the Oyster River all during the past week.
2 HUDSONIAN GODWITS were seen along the Lamprey River in Newmarket on
August 11th.
A HUDSONIAN WHIMBREL was seen at the Durham Town Landing on Oyster River on
August 16th.
3 LESSER YELLOWLEGS and 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at the Charlestown
Wastewater Treatment Plant on August 12th.
2 “WESTERN” WILLETS were seen in Little Harbor in New Castle and Rye on
August 15th and 2 were seen at Odiorne Point State Park on the 15th.
A BLACK-HEADED GULL was seen off of the coast of Odiorne Point State Park
in Rye on August 16th.
2 GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULLS were seen in Manchester on August 15th.
A YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 12th.
A juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen at the Oxbow Pond in Mine
Falls Park in Nashua on August 16th.
5 LITTLE BLUE HERONS were seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located
west of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach on August 16th, 1
was seen at Amazon Park Pond in Somersworth on the 16th, and 2 were seen
along Marsh Pond Road in Rye on the 16th.
A GLOSSY IBIS was seen at Fort Eddy Pond and the adjacent fields in Concord
on August 12th.
5 SNOWY EGRETS were seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on August 12th.
A LEAST BITTERN was heard at the Rockingham Recreation Trail off of the
Piscassic Road in Newfields on August 13th.
An AMERICAN WIGEON was seen at the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Colebrook
on August 15th.
A RED-NECKED GREBE was seen in coastal Rye and 1 was seen at the Hinsdale
Setbacks, both on August 17th.
2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen in fields along Plains Road in Monroe on August
15th, 3 were seen in fields in East Conway on August 13th, and 1 was seen
at Eaton Pond in Barnstead on August 11th.
A MISSISSIPPI KITE was seen in Dover on August 14th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen in Claremont on August 12th.
A YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT was seen along Northridge Road in Durham on August 12
th.
COMMON NIGHTHAWK migration has already begun with 144 recorded by observers
at Franklin Falls, and 55 by observers in Concord. Volunteer-observers are
welcome!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 8/17/26 10:13 am From: raqbirds via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] warbler migration at Crawford Notch
A recent overnight at the Appalachian Mountain Club's, Highland Center at the head of Crawford Notch allowed for some interesting warbler watching. First, the basic list:
Ovenbird- seenNorthern Waterthrush- heardNashville WarblerCommon YellowthroatBlackburnian Warbler Cape May Warbler- at least six!Black-throated Green WarblerYellow-rumped WarblerBlack-throated Blue WarblerAmerican RedstartCanada WarblerAlder Flycatcher- likely.Red-eyed Vireo- numerous.Blue-headed Vireo- mixed in with the warblers.Purple Finch- a handful and the only finches of note. "Misses"- B&W Warbler, Northern Parula, and Magnolia Warbler (one greeted me at my house when I got home).
Notes on migration: The two flocks on the mornings of August 15 and 16 were very different in character and clearly, they were different individual birds. On the morning of August 15 this modest flock of warblers was dominated by Cape May Warblers (at least four individuals and likely more) which cleared out overnight as there was only one on August 16.
But there were five species I did not see on August 15 that were obvious on August 16- Ovenbird, American Redstart, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, and a Nashville Warbler. This is about as close to witnessing an actual visible migration of warblers that I have seen this fall so far.
Aggressive behaviors- None noticed at Crawford Notch but in my yard here in Webster, Ovenbirds and Red-eyed Vireos are the aggressors and routinely chase both my feeder birds and migrants,
Fun with birds!
Bob Quinn, Webster, NH
"Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons and daughters of the earth." Chief Seattle
Date: 8/17/26 6:00 am From: 'Steve Mirick' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Wilkinson's Basin Pelagic Trip Bird Report - 8/16/26
Survey of birds encountered during UNH research trip aboard UNH Research
Vessel Gulf Challenger. Boat did not stop or steer toward birds. Jane
and I were guests on UNH boat that was performing ocean experiments
offshore. The boat traveled to the CO2 buoy just beyond the Isles of
Shoals and collected water samples. It then traveled directly out to
the outside edge of Jeffrey's to the "Wilkinson's Basin Water Sampling
Spot" where it deployed the water sampler and collected net samples. On
the way back, it took a more southerly track to briefly stop near Old
Scantum and see some whales!
The birds were a bit slow for the date with large portions of Jeffrey's
Ledge completely absent for ANY birds. But birds filtered in at our
stop at Wilkinson's Basin and a couple of real nice finds (Parasitic
Jaeger and Leach's Storm-Petrel) came in to check out the boat.
Weather and seas - Light and variable winds 0-5 knots shifting to S and
increasing late in the afternoon. Seas about 1-2'. Able to ride on the
bow for whole trip.
Time - 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
eBird checklists submitted and eBird trip list with documentation photos
at this link:
Total list of birds offshore (east of Isles of Shoals)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Semipalmated Plover 3. Offshore migrating.
Red-necked Phalarope 22. Several small flocks. All ID'd were
Red-necked. Most appeared to be molting adults.
Red/Red-necked Phalarope 8
PARASITIC JAEGER 1. Subadult bird made a brief pass at the boat and
chased a Herring Gull.
Laughing Gull 5. All juveniles
American Herring Gull 31
Great Black-backed Gull 18
Common Tern 5
Wilson's Storm-Petrel 100. Scattered small numbers everywhere but
very few on Jeffrey's and most in the vicinity of Old Scantum.
LEACH'S STORM-PETREL 1. Only my 2nd record from Gulf Challenger.
First came just two months ago! Appeared soon after arrival at
Wilkinson's Point. Disappeared immediately (as they usually do), but
perhaps either a different one or the same one came by the boat a bit
later.
Cory's Shearwater 4
Cory's/Scopoli's Shearwater 1. Likely a Cory's. Just appeared pale
under wings.
Great Shearwater 5. Low number.
Northern Gannet 1
Double-crested Cormorant 15. Two migrating flocks.
Marine Mammals
------------------------
Humpback Whale - 3. All in the area of Old Scantum. One identified as
"Owl" is a long-time favorite offshore and was born in 1986 making her
roughly 30 years old!
Minke Whale - 1. Repeated views of one. But no photos!
Dolphin sp. - Small number. ID consistent with Atlantic White-sided.
Date: 8/16/26 6:26 pm From: Elaine Faletra <elaine.faletra...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] 144 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Phenomenal!!! 143 last year and 144 this year on exact date. If air traffic control tried to plan this out because of a slight wind shift I doubt we could plan all this out!!
Date: 8/16/26 6:09 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 144 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Welcome to the 2026 Common Nighthawk Migration Studies here at Franklin Falls, perched high above the mighty Pemigewasset River, turning into the Merrimack just a mile downstream. The Franklin Falls Recreation Area now has a popular disc golf course and the players frequently stop by to see what I'm doing. Today one fellow gushed about a new app he knows of. "Crazy," he raved, "it tells you the names of the birds singing all around you." "Oh yes," I acknowledged, "the Merlin app. Everyone has one now (except me)."
Tonight's count went well for opening night. Favorable warm SW winds blew all evening. The first bird of the season arrived just as I took my seat at 4:45 but then almost nothing until 6:00 when about 90% of the day's catch was counted in that hour. Birds were moving both north and south. By way of comparison, 143 were counted this date last year.
Tomorrow's forecast calls for rain so no count for the next day or two.
This morning I was watching a female common yellowthroat perched near a
song sparrow when the warbler started to peck at the sparrow, driving it
off the perch. And then this afternoon, I saw 2 black-and-white warblers
seeming to harass 2 cedar waxwings. The BAWWs kept driving the waxwings
off their perches and dive-bombing them in the air. The first interaction
happened in a cherry tree along my driveway, and the second in the power
line right-of-way nearby. All of this was new behavior to me — was there
some announcement I missed?
Date: 8/10/26 1:17 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 10, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for August 10th, 2026.
Birders on a whale watch on the Granite State out of Rye Harbor tallied 22
bird species. Highlights: 36 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, 238 WILSON'S
STORM-PETRELS, 2 CORY'S SHEARWATERS, and 14 GREAT SHEARWATERS.
An AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER was seen at the Isles of Shoals on August 10th.
A HUDSONIAN GODWIT was seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located west
of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach on August 8th.
A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at the Hampton Salt Marsh Conservation Area on
August 8th.
A “WESTERN” WILLET was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 9th.
A BLACK TERN was seen at Old Scantum on August 8th, and an ARCTIC TERN was
reported from Rye Harbor on the 9th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a LAUGHING GULL from Dover on August 8th.
A GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL was seen in Manchester on August 6th.
A YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen at the Lafayette Road Bridge in
Portsmouth on August 4th.
A juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen at the Oxbow Pond in Mine
Falls Park in Nashua on August 7th.
8 LITTLE BLUE HERONS were seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located
west of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach on August 9th.
3 GREEN HERONS (2 adults and 1 juvenile) were seen at the Upper Coos
Recreational Trail in Colebrook on August 10th.
A SNOWY EGRET was seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on August 7th, 1 was
seen on the Ammonoosuc River in Landaff on the 6th, and 1 was seen at
Pickering Ponds in Rochester on August 7th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a WESTERN CATTLE EGRET from the
Ammonoosuc River in Lisbon on August 9th.
A LONG-TAILED DUCK was seen in Hampton Harbor on August 9th.
2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen in fields along Plains Road in Monroe on August
4th, 3 were seen in fields in East Conway on August 4th, and 1 was seen at
Eaton Pond in Pittsfield on August 9th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen in Hooksett on August 7th.
3 GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS were seen at the Concord Airport on August 4th.
A CERULEAN WARBLER was seen on the Cheshire Rail Trail in Troy on August 5th
.
A BLUE-WINGED WARBLER was seen in Wilton on August 2nd.
A BAY-BREASTED WARBLER was seen at the “Maggie Terninko Conservation Area”
in Nottingham on August 8th.
2 ORCHARD ORIOLES were seen on Salt Marsh Lane in Greenland on August 5th.
2 FISH CROWS were heard and seen at the UNH Campus in Durham on August 8th.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 8/9/26 8:38 am From: <ian...> Subject: [NHBirds] Free slideshow on Loons Sat Aug 22
The Beaver Meadow Chapel at 1672 Beaver Meadow Road Norwich, VT <https://www.google.com/maps/place/1672+Beaver+Meadow+Rd,+Norwich,+VT+05055/ @43.7644233,-72.3763742,790m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x4cb4cf66760369cb: 0x8ed14d7e4538addc!8m2!3d43.7644233!4d-72.3737993!16s%2Fg%2F11pf8v0cw_?entry =ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDgwNS4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D> will be hosting me to present my slideshow An Uncommon Look at the Common Loon Saturday August 22 at 7:00 p.m. Free and everyone welcome.
Date: 8/7/26 4:42 am From: Randy Langer <randylanger52...> Subject: [NHBirds] Common loon
In Flight over the house, while calling usually see them in the spring but not midsummer unsure where it was coming from and going to. Regards Randy Meredith
