Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Julie Leonard, Katie Andersen
Visitors: Julie Leonard and later, Katie Andersen assisted with the count. Julie Dell and Mark Lethaby stopped for a visit along with Mike and several others from Verizon who were working at the site. Two curious bicyclists stopped for a short chat as well.
Weather: Mostly cloudy with periods of sun. Strong SSW wind then after a brief shower winds shifted to WNW and temps. fell a bit. Unseasonably warm in the AM.
Raptor Observations: The first big day for BWs with a fair number of SS and AK as well. They were flying low and close to the lake early then later rising to heights almost out of view with 8X binoculars. After a brief shower the winds shifted off the lake and the flight shut down.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 7, American Wigeon 2, Common Merganser 2, Rock Pigeon 4, Mourning Dove 2, Ring-billed and Herring gull, Caspian Tern 1, Common Loon 1, Double-crested Cormorant 56, Great Blue Heron 5, Belted Kingfisher 2, Northern Flicker 15, American Crow, Tree Swallow, Purple Martin 6, Barn Swallow 6, European Starling, American Robin, Purple Finch 4, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle.
Predictions: 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms especially in the AM with strong WSW wind. I think the rain will put a damper on the flight. Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
