Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 14:00:00
Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Paul Gosselin
Observers: Kate Fairbairn, Mike Jaber, Robin Smallwood
Visitors:
Thanks to Paul Gosselin, Mike Jaber, Robin Smallwood, and Kate Fairbairn
for helping out with the count amidst the cold and cloudy conditons today.
Weather:
The day temperature started at a low of -2°C (real feel of -8°C)
eventually climbing to 0°C. Winds consistently stayed lower than 5kph with
direction fluctuating from NW to NNE to S. The skies were cloudy all day
maintaining a steady barometric pressure between 30.30 and 30.22 in of Hg.
The Humidity jumped considerably from 41 to 62% regardless of the cold dry
day.
Raptor Observations:
Northern Harriers (6) took the top spot today ahead of the Bald Eagles (4),
Red-tailed Hawks (3), Cooper's Hawks (2) and tied for the lowest were the
Turkey Vulture and the Sharp Shinned Hawk. Low numbers but still some
diversity.
Non-raptor Observations:
Nearing the end of the season we still have our dedicated Belted Kingfisher
that is still lingering about, along with the movement of American
Goldfinches (172) and Horned Larks (62). Highlight of the day, other than
the biting cold temperature, was the lone DC Cormorant leading a flock of
American White Pelicans (34) - times are a changin'. 59 species were
recorded from the tower today. eBird checklist available here -
https://ebird.org/checklist/S286691617
Predictions:
Tomorrow shows a consistent 2°C temperature (real feel of -6°C) with a
bit of morning snow (0-1cm) and steady cloud cover. Wind speed will be
between 28-33kph, with gusts up to 46kph at times and wind direction
gradually moving from SW to W throughout the day. Not the best conditions
for any kind of migration. Humidity will be much higher than today,
probably from the added precipitation.
Good luck to all those observing on the tower tomorrow and thanks for a
great Hawk Count season!
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Report submitted by (<aldobertucci...>)
Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://hbmo.ca/
