We have observed over 1800 Sharpshinned Hawks so far. We have seen no adults. They move after the juveniles. Right now if one Sharpshin is seen,its always best to look above,infront of or behind for a second. The siblings travel together.
We have counted a record number of Osprey this fall already,Walter and I could hardly believe we saw 53 Osprey in one day(record) and so far this fall a total of 158 Osprey. We understand from folks up north that there are still some young Osprey hanging around their natal areas,so there are still more to come!
A few unique views from Jen. A juvenile Redtail being harrassed by a Sharpshinned Hawk and a view from above of the same juvenile Redtail. Sharpshinned Hawks are very aggressive,often if you see 2 smallish raptors having a go at each other,it is Sharpshinneds. They will also attack/harass other much larger raptors.
Walter searches the skies.
We have set a one day record for Bald Eagles of 18,and the season total so far ties our best season ever already. There are undoubtedly more to come over the next 2 months. We have seen 46 so far.
We have counted a record number of Osprey this fall already,Walter and I could hardly believe we saw 53 Osprey in one day(record) and so far this fall a total of 158 Osprey. We understand from folks up north that there are still some young Osprey hanging around their natal areas,so there are still more to come!
American Kestrel
This season so far we have seen a very high total of 520 American Kestrels. We shattered our one day count on Sept 9th when we observed 203.
A few unique views from Jen. A juvenile Redtail being harrassed by a Sharpshinned Hawk and a view from above of the same juvenile Redtail. Sharpshinned Hawks are very aggressive,often if you see 2 smallish raptors having a go at each other,it is Sharpshinneds. They will also attack/harass other much larger raptors.
The Gang
Walter searches the skies.
BIGFRANK,Terry and Leon
Thus far,this fall has been quite incredible! We have had brilliant views of many fantastic raptors. We have been joined by many raptor/birding enthusiasts,of all ages and skill levels,from new birders/first time visitors to some of the areas well known birders. This has helped not only with spotting and identification,but afforded those gathered with learning opportunities and great commraderie. Thanks to everyone for their contributions. It has made each visit enjoyable and informative. Special thanks to my righthand man Walter(though he is often on my left or behind me). Special thanks also go out to Ann Brokelman for sharing so many of the great photos shown on this page,I know many folks who have visited commented on how good they are. Thanks today to Jen Howard,who sent along all of todays photos. I try to pick and chose each day,but cant include everything sent. Jen took the photos shown today a few days and I thought Id take this opportunity on a day we did not count to include them.
Thus far,this fall has been quite incredible! We have had brilliant views of many fantastic raptors. We have been joined by many raptor/birding enthusiasts,of all ages and skill levels,from new birders/first time visitors to some of the areas well known birders. This has helped not only with spotting and identification,but afforded those gathered with learning opportunities and great commraderie. Thanks to everyone for their contributions. It has made each visit enjoyable and informative. Special thanks to my righthand man Walter(though he is often on my left or behind me). Special thanks also go out to Ann Brokelman for sharing so many of the great photos shown on this page,I know many folks who have visited commented on how good they are. Thanks today to Jen Howard,who sent along all of todays photos. I try to pick and chose each day,but cant include everything sent. Jen took the photos shown today a few days and I thought Id take this opportunity on a day we did not count to include them.
Ann and Jen (I have lense envy)
Year to Date Total
Turkey Vulture.......................27
Osprey...................................158
Bald Eagle..............................46
Northern Harrier.................103
Sharpshinned Hawk..........1859
Coopers Hawk.......................23
Broadwinged Hawk.............162
Redtailed Hawk....................26
American Kestrel................520
Merlin...................................46
Peregrine Falcon..................17
Year To Date.......................2987
How does this year compare to other years? WOW is all I can say! Lets hope our luck continues.
Year................YTD as at Sept 15
2006..........................1177
2007..........................1128
2008...........................792
2009...........................753
2010..........................2987
Why? Favorable weather conditions? Increased number of observers? Increased ability of observers year over year? Successful breeding seasons for some species? Early winter?(lets hope not) Together we will see what the rest of the fall brings. Friday(tomorrow) could be an ok day,the report calls for a change in winds in the afternoon to southeast,which could shut things down. Irreguardless Walter and I will be present hoping for the best and hope "the gang" shows up to help.
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