Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 11:15:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Devin Banning, John Antonevich
Observers: Gary Bletsch, John Antonevich
Visitors: Gary Bletsch, John Antonevich, Charlotte Schmaltz (from Jamestown Audubon).
Dave Mobilia stopped by, it was great to finally meet him. We are very appreciative of our landowners who let us observe the majesty of migration on their property for around two months every year.
Weather: Light winds out of the south were overpowered by a lake breeze, turning a S wind into a WSW and at times NW wind. Considerable cloud cover, but some breaks early allowed for some sunlight to shine through. At 9:15, a cloud bank passed through which resulted in a slight increase in wind. Behind the cloud bank was rain, which did not stop. Light rain turned heavier with fog moving in. We shut down at 1130.
Raptor Observations: Not much. At least four local Bald Eagles, one of which was an adult carrying a fish from Lake Erie all the way up the ridge, presumably to a nest site. This adult eagle and its nest could be threatened by the proposed windmills in Ripley and Westfield. One AK zipped through the watch very high early. One OS before the rain. No other migrants.
Non-raptor Observations: The only Turkey Vultures seen were locals. Gary and I were able to pick up 52 total species before the rain. Highlights included TWO(!) Northern Mockingbirds, which are incredibly hard to find in Chautauqua County, Palm Warbler, Green Heron, Solitary Sandpiper, an early Eastern Kingbird, House Wren, Cedar Waxwings, White-crowned Sparrow, and Gray Catbird.
This big day included nine new species for the season, which brings our running total for the season to 96 species!
Predictions: Rain and fog early. Winds increasing throughout the day to be quite strong out of the west in the afternoon. Whether there will be a flight depends on when the rain and fog lift. Hope for a moderate flight at best. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Devin Banning (<devincban...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
