Observation start time: 06:45:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Devin Banning, Gary Bletsch, John Antonevich
Observers: Andy Dickson, Devin Banning, Gary Bletsch, Jackie Damore, John Antonevich, Mike Ceci
Visitors: Linda Barber and Jackie Damore. Other birders who assisted in the count were: Gary Bletsch (as OC for two hours), John Antonevich (as OC for two hours), Mike Ceci, and Andy Dickson
Weather: Predicted thunderstorms never materialized. Warm with highs in the mid 70s. Most of the watch featured strong southerly winds turning west at times. Around 3:40pm winds shifted to NW and the flight shut down. No precipitation until 3:50pm. Our 50/50 cloud cover to blue sky ratio aided in observing the birds.
Raptor Observations: The flight was mostly high overhead Site #1 with birds passing to the north and south of the site as well. Aforementioned cloud cover aided observers. Low numbers of Broad-wings, especially for these conditions at this point in the season. It is almost certain that some BWs have snuck by, we just don't know where. Perhaps further inland? A diverse array of Raptors, good numbers of RTs, OS, BE, and NH. Even two late season RS! Low falcon and accipiter numbers.
If we do not have more big BW days, this season is shaping up to be our 3rd or 4th weakest BW year on record. Let's hope the pipeline has more in store!
Non-raptor Observations: The main birds of the day were Turkey Vultures. Over 2000 Blue Jays passed over Site #1! New birds for the season include Baltimore Oriole, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Northern Waterthrush, Common Yellowthroat, and Ovenbird. These five new species bring our season total to 101 total bird species! Two very high Great Blue Herons. Gary had ten Solitary Sandpipers, several BAORs, Wood Duck, and dozens of other species.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Sunshine along with some cloudy intervals. High 51F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Any flight will likely be minimal, especially after today's showing despite the great conditions.
THURSDAY: Cloudy skies during the morning hours followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 71F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%. A flight is possible, especially ahead of or behind the fronts in the afternoon.
FRIDAY: Showers in the morning, then cloudy in the afternoon. High 63F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 50%. Higher wind gusts possible. A day to keep an eye on. Winds are favorable for a flight, but rain will determine whether birds get airborne. Depends on the pipeline as well. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Devin Banning (<devincban...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
