Observation start time: 12:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 2.5 hours
Official Counter: Katelyn Davis
Observers: Devin Banning
Visitors: None
Weather: A dreary day which opened with heavy fog and rain at the watch. Rain was supposed to clear by 9, but the forecast was again incorrect as it continued until at least 11am. Katelyn and I arrived at noon to heavy cloud cover and rapidly shifting winds. At some points, the strong winds were shifting rapidly from SW to NW and back again! No rain came through during the watch and skies brightened slightly, but by 2pm there was no movement so we called it quits.
Raptor Observations: Katelyn and I checked all four sites, 2 and 3 were the most useful for our limited flight. Broad-wings were extremely high and coming through fast in singles. Our biggest group was three birds. Even at Site #3 the birds were very high up. Two harriers added a bit of excitement.
Multiple local Bald Eagles were seen moving along the escarpment. These birds could be threatened by the proposed windmills.
Non-raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures were low in number, one kettle of six passed through. The rest were all locals.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Sunny with medium westerly winds. Clear skies will make the sound challenging, but it could be a moderate flight. Either way, it will be a beautiful day at RHW! Monday
MONDAY: Mainly sunny. High 69F. Winds light and variable. A light to moderate flight is possible. Lake breeze will likely overtake the weak SE winds.
TUESDAY: Potential. Mostly cloudy and windy in the morning with isolated thunderstorms developing later in the day. Potential for severe thunderstorms. High near 75F. Winds SSW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 40%. If rain holds off and we get some thermals, this could be a moderate to good flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Devin Banning (<devincban...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
