Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Chris Wood, Daena Ford, Mike Tetlow,
Niki Banke, Pat Lindsay, Peter Burns, Randy Ford,
Shelly Rackovsky, Vid Killius
Visitors:
15
Weather:
Partly cloudy in the morning, becoming mostly sunny for the rest of the
day. Temps started around 60F and reached a high of 75F. Winds were from
the west all day.
Raptor Observations:
There was a slow but steady trickle of birds today. The flight consisted
mainly of Turkey Vultures (77), Broad-winged Hawks (26), and Bald Eagles
(8). There were also 5 Red-tailed Hawks, 3 Osprey, and 2 Northern Harriers
mixed in. The most exciting bird today was a Turkey Vulture because it was
the 86,000th bird we�ve seen this season! Today's tally of 121 birds makes
the season total of raptors 86,033. This makes 2026 the fourth highest
season in the history of the count!
Non-raptor Observations:
The two Lesser Scaup continue on the bay. Not much else unusual was around.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 5/31/26 6:53 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Entangled Lives" Walk at the Montezuma Refuge
Come join us as we explore some of the fascinating connections between all living things. And bring a friend! See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe." - John Muir
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Weather: Another sunny day with temps reaching a high of 62F and north winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations: A few local raptors were around, including a pair of Osprey and a Red-tailed Hawk. The only raptor that appeared to be migrating was one single Turkey Vulture that flew high over the park.
Non-raptor Observations: The two male Lesser Scaup continue on the bay. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Greg Sanda, Mike Tetlow, Vid Killius
Visitors:
5
Weather:
There were clear skies in the morning, partially clouding over in the
afternoon. Temps ranged from 64F to 73F. Winds were out of the west at
10-20mph.
Raptor Observations:
Today�s flight was light with small waves of birds coming through
intermittently. The day tally was 195 with Turkey Vultures and Broad-winged
Hawks being equally numerous. There were also 11 Bald Eagles, 5 Red-tailed
Hawks, and 2 Northern Harriers.
Non-raptor Observations:
The gull numbers have dropped dramatically with only ~50 present today. 3
Sandhill Cranes were seen circling high up before disappearing into the
blue.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Daena Ford, Vid Killius
Visitors:
3
Weather:
It was a beautiful day at the park with clear skies and temps in the 60s.
Winds were NW at 10-20mph.
Raptor Observations:
As the end of the season approaches rapidly, the number of raptors on the
move is dwindling. A total of 29 birds passed over the park today. Turkey
Vultures were the majority with 20 individuals. 3 immature Bald Eagles flew
over together around midday. There were also 3 Broad-winged Hawks, 2
Osprey, and 1 Red-tailed Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations:
The large number of gulls continue on the bay with one Bonaparte�s Gull
mixed in.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Vid Killius
Visitors: 4
Weather: NW winds all day at 10-15mph with temps right around 70F. A few clouds in the morning cleared to blue skies for the rest of the day.
Raptor Observations: A total of 132 raptors flew over the park today. Birds were very high again, and with the clear blue sky, it made spotting birds very difficult. Broad-winged Hawks were the majority of the flight with a total of 88. Turkey Vultures (29), Red-tailed Hawks (3), and Ospreys (2) were the other birds mixed in. Bald Eagles were less numerous today with only 9 migrating over. There was also 1 Northern Harrier that passed over pretending to be a Broad-winged.
Non-raptor Observations: Hundreds of gulls continue in the bay today. A Blackpoll Warbler was feeding in the trees by the parking lot. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Weather: Mostly sunny skies in the morning becoming partly cloudy in the afternoon. Temps ranged from 69F to 84F. Winds were light SW to start, shifting to west as the day progressed. Just before 3pm the lake breeze kicked in, shutting down the flight.
Raptor Observations: There was a small but decent flight today with a total of 342 raptors! The majority of the birds were very high. Turkey Vultures (158), Broad-winged Hawks (106), and Bald Eagles (57) were the most numerous species. There were also 17 Red-tailed Hawks, 3 Osprey, and 1 Northern Harrier mixed in.
Non-raptor Observations: The highlight of the day was actually not a raptor, but an adorable Brant that spent all day on the lawn with two Canada Geese! There were hundreds of gulls around the bay today including an Iceland Gull. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Niki Banke, Tim Willis
Visitors: 4
Weather: The morning started out with overcast skies, temps around 60F, and NW winds at 10-15mph. By the afternoon the skies were nearly cloudless with NNW winds. Temps reached a high of 69F.
Raptor Observations: There was a light flight today, with more birds than the last few days! We saw a total of 143 raptors. Turkey Vultures (62), Broad-winged Hawks (50), and Bald Eagles (22) were the most numerous. There were also 5 Red-tailed Hawks, 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks, and 1 Osprey.
Non-raptor Observations: A Pileated Woodpecker flew through the park going right over the pavilion. There were some Pine Siskin and Cedar Waxwing flocks flying over throughout the day. A Great Egret flew low over the hedgerow providing wonderful views! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Luke Seitz, Pat Lindsay
Visitors: 6
Weather: Overcast skies with south winds at 10-15mph and temps ranging from mid 50s to mid 60s.
Raptor Observations: The morning was very slow with only a few Turkey Vultures passing by. In the afternoon there was a period with some more activity including some Broad-winged Hawks and Bald Eagles. In total, there were 68 birds that passed by. The raptor highlight of the day was a very nice adult Peregrine Falcon that flew over.
Non-raptor Observations: A good number of swallows continue to feed over the bay. Two male Lesser Scaup also continue in the bay. The highlight of the day was a Gray-cheeked Thrush that was hopping around next to the hedgerow!
======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Vid Killius
Visitors: 1
Weather: Mostly cloudy with temps in the low 50s and NE winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations: Another day of subpar winds resulted in only 7 birds (all Turkey Vultures) passing by the platform. The local pair of Ospreys were feeding over the bay and an adult Bald Eagle was sitting in a tree.
Non-raptor Observations: One Common Raven was seen flying by while being chased by Red-winged Blackbirds.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Vid Killius
Visitors: 1
Weather: Partly cloudy skies, NE winds at 10-15mph, and temps in the 50s.
Raptor Observations: It was a very slow day at the hawkwatch. The only raptors seen were the local pair of Bald Eagles, and three Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations: Not much songbird migration over night, but there were still a few warblers singing by the parking lot. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 5/21/26 5:35 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk at Montezuma Refuge this Saturday
Under the Sun's encouragement Earth is bursting back to life! Come see for yourself this Saturday. And bring a friend. Details on the poster.
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Visitors: 2
Weather: Thick clouds in the morning broke up and it became partly sunny in the early afternoon. After a couple hours of partly sunny skies, thick clouds rolled back in. Winds were out of the NW at 10-20mph. Temps were in the high 50s.
Raptor Observations: It was a very slow day for raptors. There were 20 Turkey Vultures, 4 Broad-winged Hawks, 1 Northern Harrier, and 1 Bald Eagle.
Non-raptor Observations: lots of swallows were feeding over the bay today. There were no warblers singing in the hedgerow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 05:00:00
Observation end time: 19:00:00
Total observation time: 14 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Brad Carlson, Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Janis George,
Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay, Pat Martin, Peter Burns,
Robin Morey, Roger Clark
Visitors:
15
Weather:
Southwest winds overnight lasted most of the morning, turning west in the
afternoon and then back to Southwest in the evening. The winds were 10 to
15mph in the morning increasing mid afternoon to 20-25mph, then dropping
back down to 15 to 20 miles an hour in the evening. Temperatures range from
68F to 87F. Clouds in the morning gradually cleared giving away to mostly
sunny skies in the afternoon and evening.
Raptor Observations:
Today was another good day for raptor migration thanks to the southwest
winds. We had a total of 936 birds. Broad-winged Hawks (410) and Turkey
Vultures (375) were the most numerous raptors. There are a few other
species mixed in including 17 Osprey, 13 Northern Harriers, and 8
Sharp-shinned Hawks. All three species of falcon were seen, including 3
Peregrines, 6 American Kestrels, and 2 Merlins. It was also a great day for
Bald Eagles with a total of 93, our best Bald Eagle day tally so far this
season!
Non-raptor Observations:
Overall, today was a great day of birding at the platform! Over the course
of 15 hours, I tally the total of 109 species of bird! Highlights include 2
Glossy Ibis, 3 Forester�s Terns, a Snowy Egret, and 2 American White
Pelicans. There is also a good movement of shorebirds throughout the day,
including 82 Least Sandpipers, 8 Dunlin, 4 Black-bellied Plover, and 8
Semipalmated Plover. In the evening there was a large movement of Common
Nighthawks, with at least 356 birds seen!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 2.25 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers:
Weather: Warm, SW winds, 50% cloud cover. Great worrying about sunburn rather than frostbite.
Raptor Observations: A bad day at the hawk count is better than a good day at work. It was hard focusing on gardening when the possibility of missing some raptor migration lingered. Very little moving under ideal conditions. Those closest to the bump and grind of staffing the count agree the 2026 season has come to a close in Ripley.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: We are closing the Ripley Hawk Watch for 2026. Thanks to all who made it a success.
We are still in a transitional mode at RHW from the days when Lenny & John or Gil & Jan did the entire count themselves to one of multiple volunteers trying to communicate and collaborate to ensure coverage and accuracy. It has been a taxing and challenging year. We continue recruiting are grooming a couple new volunteers who are promising and seem to "get it" but we realize the ethos of the hawk count is not easily trainable and several years of participation are needed before "new" volunteers can oversee the count. We lack a large metropolitan population to draw from and research universities to partner with. I'm hopeful that we will find young, enthusiastic raptor enthusiasts who can resist the temptation to chase the latest rare-bird alert for the more nuanced challenge of interpreting confusing weather patterns and finding the flight path, if one exists.
In the mean time, we intend to soldier through 2027 as best as possible but it will most likely be a part-time count. This is discouraging because we know by our numbers that Riply is one of the more important Spring hawk counts. Anyone out there with raptor chops looking to spend a week on the beautiful Chautauqua Ridge overlooking vineyards, Lake Erie and our friendly neighbors to the north, please get in touch! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 18:00:00 Total observation time: 13 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Brad Carlson, Bridget Watts, Cliff Dekdebrun, Daena Ford, Dan Niven, Mike Tetlow, Robin Morey, Roger Clark, Rosemary Reilly
Visitors: 20
Weather: The early morning was warm and humid with temps in the high 60s, SW winds at 10-15mph, and mostly clear skies. The SW winds increased to 15-20mph with some stronger gusts, and then diminished again by the evening. Temps reached a high of 89F, so much of the count was conducted from the shade of the big hickory tree. There were only a few scattered puffy clouds in the middle of the day.
Raptor Observations: We enjoyed a great flight of young Broad-winged Hawks today, with 1348 individuals. Turkey Vultures were also abundant, with 931. Bald Eagles (79) and Northern Harriers (29) continue to put on a good show, and we had our highest daily total of Osprey (26) for the season. Most of the birds were moving along the lakeshore and right over the platform, although lots were pretty high.
Non-raptor Observations: There were several surprises today, starting with two Glossy Ibis flying southeast in the morning! There were lots of other wading birds moving today, with plenty of Green Herons and Great Blues, plus a single Cattle Egret that flew down the lakeshore. A late female Ring-necked Duck was seen in the bay, and two stunning Red-headed Woodpeckers flew along the parkway. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 5/17/26 8:08 pm From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk at Montezuma Refuge this Saturday 5/23/26
Hope you can join us. And bring a friend. See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 06:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Luke Seitz, Mitch Barry, Shelly Rackovsky
Visitors:
6
Weather:
Sunny skies all day with only a few high wispy clouds. Winds started as WSW
at 10-15mph. As the day progressed there was a fight between the west winds
and a NE lake breeze. The NE lake breeze eventually won. Temps ranged from
59 to 78 over the course of the day depending on the strength of the lake
breeze.
Raptor Observations:
Just over 300 raptors were seen today. Turkey Vultures (132) and
Broad-winged Hawks (121) were the dominant species. There were a handful of
other species including 22 Bald Eagles, 13 Red-tailed Hawks, and 9
Sharp-shinned Hawks. All three species of falcon were seen today thanks to
a late in the day Peregrine.
Non-raptor Observations:
There was not much of a songbird morning flight, even though last night had
decent migration. Several species of shorebird were seen flying over
including 14 Least Sandpipers, 6 Dunlin, and 3 Black-bellied Plovers. There
were several Common Terns feeding over the bay throughout the day with a
Forster�s Tern joining them at times. The highlight of the day was a male
Eurasian Wigeon that flew in and landed in the bay for a few minutes before
getting spooked by a boat!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 05:00:00
Observation end time: 14:00:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Brad Carlson, Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Greg Sanda,
Kevin Ebert , Luke Seitz, Mike Tetlow, Mitch Barry,
Randy Ford, Shannon Sanda, Vid Killius
Visitors:
15
Weather:
Mostly sunny all morning with SW winds at 10-15mph and temps in the 50s.
Cloud cover varied throughout the day, but it eventually completely clouded
over just before the rain. Temps reached a high of 78F. Winds were SW all
day at 10-20mph. A thunderstorm hit right at 3pm shutting down the flight.
Raptor Observations:
1,205 raptors passed over Braddock Bay today! Broad-winged Hawks (623),
Turkey Vultures (398), and Bald Eagles (80) were the most abundant species.
Sharp-shinned Hawks numbers are slowing down with only 41 on the move
today. We had two species of falcon: 3 American Kestrels and 2 Peregrine
Falcons. The highlight of the day was an adult Mississippi Kite seen
briefly around 8:30am!!
Non-raptor Observations:
Lots of birds were on the move last night with a few new species for the
year arriving. There was a Willow Flycatcher singing all morning, an
Eastern Wood-Pewee flew by in the limited morning flight, and Lincoln�s
Sparrows were foraging along the hedgerows. While there wasn�t a big
morning flight of warblers, there were a decent number of American Pipits,
Baltimore Orioles, and Indigo Buntings flying over.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson, Michael Ceci
Observers: Andy Dickson, Mike Ceci
Visitors: None
Weather: We were welcomed with SSW winds that continued until 1:00 PM, when the wind shifted west with incoming rain. At 1:30, rain began. Temperatures remained in the mid 70's for the majority of today's count.
Raptor Observations: Decent numbers of birds and a variety of species during today's count. Approximately 1/2 of the 191 BW's were immature. During the 12:00 - 1:00 hour, there were kettles consisting of 15-25 BW's. Within today's mix, there were 24 Bald Eagles, 9 Ospreys, 2 Northern Harriers, 1 AK, 4 RT's, and 7 acceptors. The 147 TV's were steady throughout the count. By 12:30, weather radar showed incoming rain from Erie. As anticipated, the rain began @ 1:30. The last birds were sighted between 1:00 - 1:30. Today's count concluded @ 1:30 PM.
Non-raptor Observations: Local Bald Eagles, Red Tails and TV's.
Predictions: The weather forecast for Sunday, 05/17/2026: Areas of patchy fog and cloudy skies early in the morning. Clouds will increase later in the day. High temperatures will be in the low 70's. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Unlikely that we'll duplicate today's successful count. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 5/15/26 10:15 pm From: 'Dan Young' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: Re: [GeneseeBirds-L] Braddock Bay (15 May 2026) 169 Raptors
if somebody wishes to elaborate to me, a casual visitor, the details of the reputed swallow tail kite sighting I would be most grateful.
I live similarly positioned as your Braddock's watch, on the lake some sixty miles east at Chimney Bluffs and East Bay and would likely tumble off the bluffs where I to catch sight of a Swallow tail Kite.
Dan
| Observation start time: | 07:00:00 |
| Observation end time: | 15:00:00 |
| Total observation time: | 8 hours |
| Official Counter | Maili Waters |
| Observers: | Bridget Watts, Vid Killius |
Visitors:
4
Weather:
Nearly cloudless skies to start, slowly clouding over to become mostlycloudy in the afternoon. temps in the low 50s to start reaching a high of68F. West winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations:
A relatively slow day for raptors, however it was a beautiful day to be outon the platform! There were a total of 169 raptors today which officiallyputs us over 80,000 birds for the season! There are two more weeks left,let�s see how many more we can find! Turkey Vultures (118) and Broad-wingedHawks (27) were the most numerous species today. A handful of other specieswere seen including 9 Bald Eagles, 5 Osprey, and 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks.There were also two different Peregrine Falcons that passed over!
Non-raptor Observations:
Nothing too out of the ordinary was seen today. There were a few warblerspecies by the parking lot including Palm and Nashville. Half a dozenCaspian Terns were foraging over the bay.
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/ More information at hawkcount.org: [Site Profile] [Day Summary] [Month Summary]
Count data submitted via Trektellen.org - [Project Details]
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Vid Killius
Visitors:
4
Weather:
Nearly cloudless skies to start, slowly clouding over to become mostly
cloudy in the afternoon. temps in the low 50s to start reaching a high of
68F. West winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations:
A relatively slow day for raptors, however it was a beautiful day to be out
on the platform! There were a total of 169 raptors today which officially
puts us over 80,000 birds for the season! There are two more weeks left,
let�s see how many more we can find! Turkey Vultures (118) and Broad-winged
Hawks (27) were the most numerous species today. A handful of other species
were seen including 9 Bald Eagles, 5 Osprey, and 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks.
There were also two different Peregrine Falcons that passed over!
Non-raptor Observations:
Nothing too out of the ordinary was seen today. There were a few warbler
species by the parking lot including Palm and Nashville. Half a dozen
Caspian Terns were foraging over the bay.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: no visitors
Weather: Yesterday's cold & drizzle finally departed, leaving a mix of sun & thin clouds. Temps were high 50s with 62 for the last hour. The wind was brisk and steady from the west which put the kibosh on seeing a flight for the final day of dedicated watch coverage.
Raptor Observations: 2 turkey vultures and 1 sharp-shinned hawk was all that moved past. Local TVs and a local red-tail made appearances.
Non-raptor Observations: Nothing of note.
Predictions: There will still be raptors migrating after today (especially the juvenile broad-winged hawk movement) when winds are more favorable (southerly) and temps improve enough to generate some thermal updraft. As mentioned in the Weather comments this is the final day of dedicated coverage. Thanks to all of this season's counters! Bye for now! -Jim Landau ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Date: 5/15/26 12:16 pm From: ROBERT SPAHN <rspahn...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Spring finally popping - Webster Park
Sue and I have finally managed some more time out catching up here after some travels.
Today's walk in Webster Park finally resulted in some fun with the Barred owls there and a number of singing Winter Wrens. Fun to get out even late AM when the sun is out and there is some activity.
Bird List:Webster - Webster Park - Campground Rd., Monroe, New York, US
Bob & Sue Spahn, <rspahn...> 15, 2026 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: Sue and I were out mainly for a walk from the start of the RV loop to the flag pole area with picnic table for a sit half way. Distance is one way, though new birds added on the walk back to the car. At the table in flag pole are, I did some Barred Owl imitation. Upset birds in woods to SE indicated owl approach, but only after long quiet period, one started to call right above us, then two others called back to NE and NW of us. On way back to car one flew over the road and sat where we could see it. The calls plus other spishing did stir up at least a few birds. Generally pretty quiet.
26 species
Barred Owl 3 See trip notes. Called in one, and when it started to call, two more called back from different direction NE and NW of us and the initial bird. All calling at one time. Not a big surprise; they have nested here for years.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 1
Eastern Wood-Pewee 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Blue Jay 3
American Crow 5
Black-capped Chickadee 3
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Red-breasted Nuthatch 3
Winter Wren 4
Gray Catbird 3
Eastern Bluebird 2
Veery 2
Wood Thrush 1
American Robin 11
American Goldfinch 6
Chipping Sparrow 3
Baltimore Oriole 1
Common Grackle 2
Nashville Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 3
Webster NW - Webster Park - Campground Rd., Monroe, New York, US
May 15, 2026 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: Sue and I were out mainly for a walk from the start of the RV loop to the flag pole area with picnic table for a sit half way. Distance is one way, though new birds added on the walk back to the car. At the table in flag pole are, I did some Barred Owl imitation. Upset birds in woods to SE indicated owl approach, but only after long quiet period, one started to call right above us, then two others called back to NE and NW of us. On way back to car one flew over the road and sat where we could see it. The calls plus other spishing did stir up at least a few birds. Generally pretty quiet.
26 species
Barred Owl 3 See trip notes. Called in one, and when it started to call, two more called back from different direction NE and NW of us and the initial bird. All calling at one time. Not a big surprise; they have nested here for years.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 1
Eastern Wood-Pewee 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Blue Jay 3
American Crow 5
Black-capped Chickadee 3
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Red-breasted Nuthatch 3
Winter Wren 4
Gray Catbird 3
Eastern Bluebird 2
Veery 2
Wood Thrush 1
American Robin 11
American Goldfinch 6
Chipping Sparrow 3
Baltimore Oriole 1
Common Grackle 2
Nashville Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 3
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers: Carol Hardenburg
Visitors: Carol Hardenburg stopped by Site # 2 and assisted from 11:00 - 11:30
Weather: Temperature remained in the mid '50's with a mild WNW wind. 50% cloud cover. Beautiful views of the Lake Erie south shoreline, continuation of blossoms in the Concord Grape Vineyards, increasing spring colors on the escarpment made for a pleasant spring morning.
Raptor Observations: Minimal migration today with 35 TV's, 2 BW's, and 1 SS. Low number of raptors may signify that the spring migration at the Ripley Hawk Watch is concluding.
Non-raptor Observations: None
Predictions: A favorable forecast for Saturday, 05/16/2026 - Partly cloudy in the morning. Thunderstorms developing later in the day. Much warmer. High around 70F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Depending on what's remaining in the pipeline, a late spring flight could emerge. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Visitors: 0
Weather: Today was very gloomy with scattered rain showers and fog throughout the day. Temps were in the 40s and the winds were NW at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations: The count was shortened to only one hour due to the rain and fog. During that hour there were no raptors observed.
Non-raptor Observations: A Nashville Warbler, along with some Yellow-rumps and Palms, were foraging along the hedgerow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 09:15:00 Total observation time: 0.25 hours
Official Counter:
Observers:
Weather: Intermittent rain throughout the area as well as north and south of the hawkwatch. Unfortunately, no count was conducted on this final day of the Hamburg Hawkwatch. See you all next year and have a wonderul summer!
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Sharon Sisti (<sharonsisti...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Mike Tetlow
Visitors:
8
Weather:
Scattered rain overnight lasted until 8:45 AM. As the rain moved out of the
area, it became mostly sunny with south winds at 10-20mph and temps in the
50s. In the early afternoon it began clouding over again. Temps reached a
high 66F and the winds shifted to SW at 15-20mph. Around 2:30 some rain
passed over briefly along with the cold front, and winds shifted W, which
shut down the raptor flight.
Raptor Observations:
Wow! Today was a spectacular day of migration! We had a total of 1177
raptors, but the real spectacle was the songbird movement! Immature
Broad-winged Hawks dominated today�s flight with a total of 802 birds.
Turkey Vultures, Sharp-shinned Hawks and Bald Eagles were also numerous.
The raptor highlights of the day were two Rough-legged Hawks, one of which
came close to the platform providing nice views.
Non-raptor Observations:
As soon as the rain stopped, incredible numbers of passerines started to
move. Immediately there were flocks of Bobolinks, Baltimore Orioles and
Yellow-rumped Warblers going over in large numbers. The diversity within
the flyover warblers was great, with a mix of Cape Mays, Black-throated
Greens, Palms, Yellows, and Tennessees. In total, there were probably
several thousand warblers, a thousand Bololinks, and 800 Baltimore Orioles.
The movement of songbirds lasted all day with dozens of warblers still
flying over in the late afternoon.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: No visitors.
Weather: Multiple cloud layers all day, lower clouds moving fast from the southwest and a few spits of rain. The southwest wind was brisk and chilly. Temps held steady throughout the 4 hours of the watch at 60F (15.5C).
Raptor Observations: A tepid migration flight of 23 Turkey Vultures, 2 Red-tails, 8 Broadwings and 1 Sharp-shin. 1 local Bald Eagle and the odd local Turkey vulture.
Non-raptor Observations: No other birds of note.
Predictions: National Weather Service at 5pm says, "A chance of showers. Cloudy, with a high near 52. Northwest wind around 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%." Sorry, Sharon! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 11:15:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: The temperature, upon arrival, was 64F with SSW winds. With dark clouds over the Lake, rain moved inland along the shoreline @ 11:45. @ 12:15, there was a clearing over the Lake with a brief return of SSW wind, but the temperature dropped to the mid '50's. By 12:45, wind changed to WNW ending the flight. The watch shut down @ 1:15 PM.
Raptor Observations: There were hopeful signs for a flight upon arrival with temperature of 64F and a SSW wind. Flight temporarily shut down when a brief thunderstorm came through the Lake's edge and moved inland. Upon the rain moving inland, a brief flight resumed between Rt 5 and the shoreline. With dropping temperatures and WNW wind, the flight shut-down. The BW's sighted at the start of the watch were adults, giving some hope for BW's in the pipeline.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-stop Blue Jays. The usual appearances of local Bald Eagles, TV's and RT's.
Predictions: Cloudy with showers. Cooler. High around 50F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Wind will change to NNW late morning. There could be a small to moderate flight earlier in the morning with W winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Tim Willis
Weather: Today had clear skies, temps in the 40s, and NE winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations: It was a very quiet day at the hawkwatch. The only birds migrating today were 2 Turkey Vultures, 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, and one Bald Eagle. Fingers crossed that tomorrow will have a few more birds after the rain!
Non-raptor Observations: A Magnolia Warbler was feeding in the trees by the parking lot. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 5/12/26 2:31 pm From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] FW: eBird Report - Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville, New York, US (43.057, -77.724), May 12, 2026
From: <do-not-reply...> <do-not-reply...>
Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 5:30 PM
To: Lynn A. Braband <lab45...>
Subject: eBird Report - Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville, New York, US (43.057, -77.724), May 12, 2026
Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville, New York, US (43.057, -77.724), Monroe, New York, US
May 12, 2026 9:57 AM
Protocol: Incidental
1 species
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Mike Tetlow, Shelly Rackovsky
Visitors: 3
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning becoming almost entirely clear in the afternoon. Around 11am there were scattered rain showers all around us, however none actually hit us. Temps in the low 40s to start, reaching a high of 55F. Winds were NW all day starting at 5-10mph and increasing to 10-20mph.
Raptor Observations: Today was a relatively slow day with only 102 raptors migrating over. Almost half were Turkey Vultures, with 28 Broad-winged Hawks, 19 Bald Eagles, and 8 Sharp-shinned Hawks representing the other half. The highlight of the day was an immature Golden Eagle! This individual is the 50th Golden Eagle of the season!
Non-raptor Observations: There were a handful of warblers in the parking lot, including Palm, Yellow-rump, Nashville, Yellow, and a Black-throated Green ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 12:00:00
Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Carl Carbone
Observers: Stephanie Carbone
Visitors:
One older gentleman stopped in his car and asked if we were watching for
eagles. He said he always sees people here. I explained the watch to him
and he thanked me for confirming his suspicion.
Weather:
Partly to mostly sunny. Cool with a light to moderate WNW to NNW breeze. It
was quite chilly, despite being around 55�.
Raptor Observations:
Not a whole lot. 7 Turkey Vultures, 1 Osprey, 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk and 2
adult Bald Eagles heading NE. Two local Red-tailed Hawks, along with 8
local Turkey Vultures, 1 local Broad-winged Hawk and 1 local juvenile
Cooper's.
Predictions:
Tuesday might be a little more favorable ... from the NWS: Patchy frost
before 7am. Otherwise, increasing clouds, with a high near 60. Calm wind
becoming west around 6 mph in the afternoon.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Carl Carbone (<csquared63...>)
Site Description:
This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in
Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline
of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY.
For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Directions to site:
Lakeside Cemetery is located in Hamburg, NY which is about 10 miles
southwest of Buffalo, NY at the Hamburg Exit 57 of the NY State Thruway.
Bear right after the toll booth onto Camp Road (Route 75). Proceed through
the traffic light at Southwestern Blvd.(Route 20). The entrance to Lakeside
Cemetery is on the left, less than 1/4 mile from the light. The watch is
normally conducted half way between the entrance and the woods.
There is currently one alternate location for easterly winds that move the
flight path to the west and closer to the lake shore. That is farther into
Lakeside Cemetery at Section H.
Date: 5/11/26 9:27 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk at the Montezuma Refuge 5/23/26
Last Transformation walk of the season. Then comes "Entangled Lives". Bring a friend! See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Luke Seitz
Visitors: 1
Weather: In the morning the temps started in the upper 40s, winds were from the NW, and the skies were clear. Temps reached a high of 51F, the winds were somewhat strong out of the NW all day, and the sky was very blue making viewing birds difficult.
Raptor Observations: A total of 390 raptors passed overhead today. Broad-winged Hawks (275), Turkey Vultures (64), and Sharp-shinned Hawks (24) were the majority of the flight. A handful of other birds were mixed in, including some Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and Ospreys.
Non-raptor Observations: In the morning, there were a good number of Caspian Terns, Common Terns and gulls flying over the barrier Island and the mouth of the bay. Two Blue-winged Teal were in the marsh. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: Plenty of cemetery visitors for Mother's Day but none for the hawk watch.
Weather: A pretty blue sky all day, temps struggling and failing to get into the 50s. Winds were fresh from the west throughout the watch (SW, WSW & WNW), chilly coming off of close by Lake Erie.
Raptor Observations: Very little migrating, 1 adult bald eagle, 3 broadwings, 1 American kestrel, and 5 TV's that I gave the benefit of the doubt. Local TVs and a few local redtails and that was it. All hours were covered by the main entrance. The ball park gate was locked.
Non-raptor Observations: Before starting the 1st hour I had an Eastern kingbird over near the pond.
Predictions: National Weather Service says, "Partly sunny, with a high near 53. Light north wind becoming northwest 6 to 11 mph in the morning." I wouldn't expect much with northerly winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 11 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Greg Sanda, Luke Seitz, Mark Kimble , Mike Tetlow, Mitch Barry, Shannon Sanda, Vid Killius
Visitors: 10
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning with high thin clouds, temps in the mid 40s, and light south winds. Gradually those clouds started to disappear, soon replaced by big puffy clouds that lasted for the rest of the day. Between 10 and 10:30 the lake breeze kicked in pushing the flight inland and we followed. Initially, there were some birds over Frisbee Hill, but with the sustained lake breeze, they got pushed further in, out of sight. Around 3 PM the southerly breeze picked back up so we moved back to the platform. Temps reached a high of 68F. Some scattered sprinkles after 5 PM.
Raptor Observations: Today was another day of high altitude raptors. We tallied just over 1000 birds with the majority being Broad-winged Hawks. The ratio of juveniles to adults continues to increase. Sharp-shinned Hawks are still on the move with a total of 184 for the day. Bald Eagles remain numerous with a total of 31. There was a high flying Peregrine Falcon along with a few kestrels bringing us to a total of 10 species for the day.
Non-raptor Observations: South winds overnight pushed some new birds into the area. The morning flight consisted of mostly American Goldfinches with some decent sized flocks of American Pipits. There were a handful of warblers but most were heard-only flight calls. Both species of yellowlegs flew over, along with two Dunlin, two Solitary Sandpipers, and a peep sp. The numbers of White-crowned Sparrows continue along the hedge rows with over 25 seen at once. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Sue Barth
Observers:
Visitors: Rick Thomas
Weather: Low hanging, thick, dark clouds for the first couple of hours but the sky eventually brightened to blue skies and plenty of sunshine. Temps stayed between 55F and 60. The winds were favorable between 9 and 14mph and predominantly from the SW.
Raptor Observations: It was a very slow beginning with a very modest ending. In all, 81 migrating raptors flew over, Broad-wings leading at 49, Turkey Vultures numbered 20, 5 Bald Eagles, 4 sharpies, 1 coop, and 2 Red-tails. Locals included a pair of adult Bald Eagles, a few Turkey Vultures, a pair of Red-tails, a kestrel, and a coop.
Predictions: Mother's Day looks pleasant: 57F, dry, and mild winds from the West.<br>
Monday looks to be mostly clear with temps a little cooler due to WNW winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Barth (<suebarth...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Fred Harrington
Observers: Jim Landau
Visitors: Jim Landau
Weather: Cool light winds from the west to slightly north. Temps around 10 C. Count started after the morning rain and the skies become mostly clear.
Raptor Observations: A few migrants passed through, along with the usual locals of Red-tailed Hawk, Turkey Vulture and a Cooper's Hawk. Migrants were mostly Turkey Vultures and a few Broad-winged Hawks and a Red-tailed Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Barn Swallows and American Goldfinches were close by the count site. Others around the cemetery included a Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher, a number of the usual.
Predictions: Temps rising to 15 C with SW winds gusting to 25 KPH. Afternoon forecast of showers, thunderstorms, and hail. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Frederick Harrington (<harrinfe...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Date: 5/8/26 4:26 pm From: James Kimball <kimball...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Chandler Rd. (Piffard) Black Tern
There was a Black Tern flying about and diving this evening (c. 6:30) at the shorebird site along Chandler Rd., off the end of Flats Rd. Jim Kimball <kimball...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Vid Killius
Visitors: 1
Weather: Rain overnight lasted until around 9:30am. It became mostly sunny with some scattered puffy clouds. Temps ranged from 46F to 53F. Winds started off as NW, but the lake breeze started up around 1pm shifting the wind to NE.
Raptor Observations: Today was another very high flight with birds literally popping in and out of clouds. There were a total of 282 raptors today. Most were Broad-winged Hawks with some Turkey Vultures and Bald Eagles mixed in. While scoping Broad-wings going in and out of the clouds I would come across Sharp-shinned Hawks so high they were only visible with the scope! Makes me wonder how many were actually up there
Non-raptor Observations: There were a minimum of 15 White-crowned Sparrows feeding at the seed! Bobolinks and Eastern Meadowlarks were singing all morning. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: 48F with mild wind NNW upon arrival at Site 1A. Temperatures and wind remained consistent during the 3 hours devoted to today's count. A pleasant spring afternoon with panoramic views of the Lake Erie south shoreline, the Concord Grape Vineyards and the ever-changing escarpment as springtime proceeds.
Raptor Observations: Started the count from Site 1A @ 10:00 AM. Mild NW wind @ .4 - 1.1 MPH was enough to push the meager flight up the escarpment. 28 TV's; 2 full adult BE's' 2 Red-Tails, and only 1 BW came through during today's 3 hour duration.
Non-raptor Observations: As usual, local Bald Eagles were traveling back and forth from the Lake's shore to the escarpment, along with a showing of local Red Tails and TV's. There were very few migrating non-raptors in today's mostly empty skies.
Predictions: Cloudy skies during the morning hours followed by thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 62F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Depending on the remaining raptors in the pipeline, the predicted weather conditions are favorable. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 5/8/26 8:20 am From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Identifying where birds fall on the color wheel - The Wildlife Society
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Tim Willis, Vid Killius
Visitors:
2
Weather:
The morning started out mostly cloudy with light WNW winds. The clouds soon
cleared and it became mostly blue skies. Winds shifted to the north and
increased to 10-15mph. Temps started in the low 40s and reached a high of
53F. Around 3pm, clouds returned only letting small bits of sun through.
Raptor Observations:
Today was relatively slow with a total of 53 birds seen. There were 22
Broad-winged Hawks, 16 Turkey Vultures, 10 Bald Eagles, and 4 Sharp-shinned
Hawks. The highlight of the day was a beautiful adult Peregrine Falcon that
flew over.
Non-raptor Observations:
Even though there wasn�t much songbird movement last night, there were a
couple species of warblers in the parking lot. A male Black-throated Blue
Warbler and a male Cape May Warbler were feeding in the flowering trees.
There was also my first Eastern Warbling Vireo of the year in the woods
behind the pavilion.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson, John Antonevich
Observers: John Antonevich, Kirk Szkiewski
Visitors: Kirk Szkelski anchored low on the escarpment. John Antonevich arrived 12pm+ to anchor the Creamery location where I spent the whole day save for the initial 30 minutes of the count.
Weather: Clear skies. Highly variable winds between W & N. 100% high cloud cover early, then cloudless skies.
Raptor Observations: Relatively little raptor movement.
Non-raptor Observations: Great egret at 10:15 along the lake shore.
Predictions: Early rain and westerly winds might push the late birds through? ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 11:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Visitors:
0
Weather:
Rain overnight lasted until noon. After the rain, there were overcast
skies, temps in the mid 40s, and light NE winds.
Raptor Observations:
The clouds thinned for a little while, getting a couple Turkey Vultures and
Bald Eagles up and flying, but it didn�t last long and soon there were
thick clouds again.
Non-raptor Observations:
Not much around today
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 11:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: no visitors
Weather: Rain & drizzle delayed the start but eventually precip. calmed down. Overcast but for a brief 1/2 hour before the cloud filled back in completely. Winds were pretty much calm or very light & variable for the 1st 3 hours. Wind freshened for the last 1 1/2 hrs and was cold & from the west.
Raptor Observations: The 1st 2 hours only saw 1 local Bald Eagle & 1 local Cooper's Hawk. 2 adult Bald Eagles migrated together during the brief 1/2 hr of sun. Otherwise a small # of Broadwings & Red-tails, 1 Turkey Vulture, 1 Cooper's and 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk. In the last 1/2 hr a few of the local Turkey Vultures floated up and back down again.
Non-raptor Observations: Great Egret, 5 DC Corms,& a pair of Common Mergs on the pond. A number of Chimney Swifts zoomed around and 1 turkey walked across the road through the woods. Plus the usual suspects - grackles, redwings, starlings, killdeer, crows, etc.
Predictions: National Weather Service is calling for, "A chance of showers, mainly after 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. West wind 6 to 15 mph." Things have been held up with this stretch of April-like weather so maybe some movement. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay, Pat Martin, Vid Killius
Visitors: 9
Weather: The morning started off quite breezy with SW winds at 15-20mph, partial sun, and temps in the low 60s. As the day progressed, the wind increased to 20-25mph with some higher gusts and at times shifted more west. Temps reached a high of 70F. Overall the skies were mostly cloudy with only short periods with sun. Rain started at 4:30pm.
Raptor Observations: The flight started early with Sharp-shinned Hawks moving down the barrier island. After a couple hours, the Broad-winged Hawks started to get up along with some Turkey Vultures. Sharp-shinned Hawks were the most abundant bird today with a total of 320. There were almost equal numbers of Turkey Vultures (281) and Broad-winged Hawk (289), along with decent numbers of Red-tailed Hawks (35) and Bald Eagles (32). The more unusual raptors seen today include 1 Peregrine Falcon and 1 Golden Eagle!
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jays were on the move again with large flocks congregating over the West Spit before heading east. The largest single flock seen today was estimated to be around 2,500! Scarlet Tanagers, Bobolinks, and both species of oriole were seen flying east along the parkway. There were also some warblers flying over including Pine, Magnolia, Yellow-rump, Palm, Yellow, and Black-throated Green. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Steve Pitt
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: A very windy with strong gusts and cloudy day with a slight chill despite 60 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures.
Raptor Observations: It was a day for strong fliers. There were several Bald Eagles but fewer Broad-winged Hawks than might be expected during this time of year.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Steve Pitt (<spitt...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
