Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Andy Ednie, Carol Spease, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Sally O'Byrne, Sally O'Byrne, Walt Blackwell
Visitors: 15
Weather: Blue skies all day. Strong NNW winds. Chilly.
Raptor Observations: A steady flight most of the day but spotting was difficult with the blue skies. A mix of high and low migrants, including some very high. The highest Turkey Vulture day so far with over a hundred. A lot of Bald Eagle activity with 18 migrants. Many Bald Eagles were extremely high enjoying the strong winds. The only harrier was an adult male that soared over high. A moderate Accip flight with 16 sharpies and 19 Coops. Small Buteo totals with 2 red-shoulders and 5 red-tails. We had the falcon trifecta with four merlins, one kestrel, and one juvenile peregrine.
The highlight of the day was the first GOLDEN EAGLE of the season, an immature that glided high overhead in the early afternoon. This was a great birthday bird for Kim!
New species for season: Hermit Thrush, Golden Eagle
Predictions: Tomorrow: Mainly sunny. High 64F. Winds NNW at 10-15mph. Similar to today except the wind won't be as overly strong. Great wind direction and speed. Spotting will be difficult without clouds if the raptors are high. I would expect results to be similar to today. Expect moderate to good migration.
Saturday: Mix of sun and clouds. High 68F. Winds light and variable. Expect moderate migration.
Sunday: Some morning sun then increasing clouds. High near 75F. Winds S at 10-20mph. Expect light to moderate migration. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org