Date: 4/8/26 2:09 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Nest building Blue Jays & E. Phoebes - Arapahoe
I went out briefly on Monday to the High Line Canal in Centennial and Greenwood Village (Arapahoe County). There, I encountered an Eastern Phoebe pair. (As far as I know, a pair of E. Phoebes has been present in this area only since 2024.) I briefly spotted one collecting nesting material, a little mucky stuff.
Eastern Phoebes are known for incorporating mosses into their nests. This is what *Birds of the World *says: "The green moss is an invariable component in nest construction and its presence is diagnostic; late season nests during dry periods may have less moss (HPW)."
Mosses are scarcer in this area, but certainly not absent. There are nice collections of mosses along the creek in spots. Over-irrigated lawns also often have them, usually at their edges. These (the over-irrigated lawns) too, are present in the area.
As someone with a budding interest in bryophytes, I hope to observe and possibly photograph this pair collecting mosses. Unfortunately, for me, I think the nest is in an impossible-to-photograph location along the Little Dry Creek. So it would have to be the birds in action.
I also encountered a Blue Jay pair creating a twiggy nest over the Little Dry Creek. One of the pair was spending a lot of time sitting atop and moving around the nest, as if to customize the opening. Again, *Birds of the World *is helpful here, though I don't think it describes *exactly* what I was seeing -- "Females may shape nest cup by pressing soaked breast against sides of cup. This is perhaps done only when wet leaves are used to line nest (see below)" -- as I didn't notice the birds handling wet leaves.
Later that day, a male Broad-tailed went over me while I was doing nothing in my yard. First of the year for me.
- Jared Del Rosso Centennial, CO
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers: Marina Prado-Echeagaray
Visitors: We had 9 visitors at the Hawk Watch today including a couple that is hoping to come back soon.
Thanks to Janet Peters, Bill Young, Sara Jepsen, Marirosa Donisi, and Chip Dawes for volunteering their time today to help us spot migrants!
Soren came in to count for a half day on his day off. Thanks Soren!
Weather: Today started out cold with low 40 F temperatures but got up into the high 60s low 70s by the early afternoon. Cloud cover was consistent throughout the day making spotting birds a bit easier. Precipitation could be seen in the late afternoon south and west of us. Winds picked up in the late afternoon to a bft of 5 when precipitation could be seen, but died back down by the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Today was another fun day of migration with a lot of Cooper's Hawks moving through! The first hour started out slow but picked up pretty quickly with our first bird being a Northern Harrier. Before we knew it we had a handful of Red-tailed Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Cooper's hawks all in a thermal. Birds moved high and W for a good chunk of the day, before coming to a standstill once the winds picked up. In the late afternoon we had two adult Bald Eagles come by the ridge, with one of them coming so close we could hear the flap of its wings! One adult then chased the other one south before we lost both of them.
Local raptor activity was high and sometimes hard to pick apart from migrant activity during the peak. We got to see some Red-tailed Hawks kiting in the high winds which is always a treat.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 5, Broad-tailed Hummingbird 1, Eurasian Collared-Dove 2, Double-crested Cormorant 1, American White Pelican 1, Say's Phoebe 1, Common Raven 2, Tree Swallow 1, Rock Wren 1, American Robin 2, House Finch 1, American Goldfinch 1, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Tomorrow's weather will be similar to today's with pleasant temperatures and some cloud cover. Some sources predict rain, some don't. Typical Colorado! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 4/7/26 10:33 am From: Eric DeFonso <bay.wren...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Negative bird reports
Hi Tom,
The preferred approach by eBird is to simply create a checklist for the
outing where you searched for the rarity, and have that be a complete
checklist of all the species you were able to identify. You can put a
checklist comment in explaining that you were unable to find the target
bird, and of course not include it among the birds you did find in the
list. That would be sufficient.
eBird has repeatedly indicated that they do NOT want folks entering "0" for
an unfound species.
On Mon, Apr 6, 2026 at 9:46 PM tom none <jtcurt325...> wrote:
> Does anyone know whether there is a mechanism by which a lack of a
> sighting can be entered into e-bird. I went to look for the white ibis
> today and could not find it, That might be a useful piece of information
> for someone coming from some distance to try to see it. I was wondering if
> one can enter zero for a species to indicate that it was not found.
>
> Thanks,
> Tom Curtis
>
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Date: 4/7/26 6:10 am From: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Osprey Nesting Platform
Thank you!
Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef> ________________________________
From: Ethan Augreen <eaugreen...>
Sent: Monday, April 6, 2026 9:00:46 PM
To: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...>
Cc: cobirds <cobirds...>
Subject: Re: [cobirds] Osprey Nesting Platform
They've done some work in Weld County and care about ospreys too.
On Mon, Apr 6, 2026 at 11:58 PM Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...><mailto:<hollyhockfarms...>> wrote:
Hi Everyone,
For years now I've wanted to install an Osprey nesting platform on my property across from Highland Lake near Mead, Weld County, CO. This is going to be the year, but I need to find someone who knows what they are doing to make and install it. United Power will donate a pole, but it has to be picked up and delivered, something that I have no equipment to do. At my age, I also do not have the ability to build and install one myself.
Can anyone recommend someone who would be able to do this for me?
Ospreys frequent the lake and there are no other nesting platforms that I know of for miles around.
Thanks,
Pauli Smith
Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County, Colorado
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They've done some work in Weld County and care about ospreys too.
On Mon, Apr 6, 2026 at 11:58 PM Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...>
wrote:
> Hi Everyone,
>
> For years now I've wanted to install an Osprey nesting platform on my
> property across from Highland Lake near Mead, Weld County, CO. This is
> going to be the year, but I need to find someone who knows what they are
> doing to make and install it. United Power will donate a pole, but it has
> to be picked up and delivered, something that I have no equipment to do. At
> my age, I also do not have the ability to build and install one myself.
>
> Can anyone recommend someone who would be able to do this for me?
>
> Ospreys frequent the lake and there are no other nesting platforms that I
> know of for miles around.
>
> Thanks,
> Pauli Smith
> Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County, Colorado
>
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For years now I've wanted to install an Osprey nesting platform on my property across from Highland Lake near Mead, Weld County, CO. This is going to be the year, but I need to find someone who knows what they are doing to make and install it. United Power will donate a pole, but it has to be picked up and delivered, something that I have no equipment to do. At my age, I also do not have the ability to build and install one myself.
Can anyone recommend someone who would be able to do this for me?
Ospreys frequent the lake and there are no other nesting platforms that I know of for miles around.
Thanks,
Pauli Smith
Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County, Colorado
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Does anyone know whether there is a mechanism by which a lack of a sighting can be entered into e-bird. I went to look for the white ibis today and could not find it, That might be a useful piece of information for someone coming from some distance to try to see it. I was wondering if one can enter zero for a species to indicate that it was not found.
Thanks, Tom Curtis
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors: We had 12 visitors today including 2 international groups! One group from Germany visiting friends, and one group from the UK visiting for basketball.
Thank you to Clay Gibson, Karolyn Chan, Amy Walsh, and Mike Serruto for their time spent volunteering today. Your help spotting distant migrants was crucial in today's count!
Weather: Today was a beautiful day to monitor the migration with cloud cover present for most of the day. Temperatures were in the mid to high 60s F depending on cloud cover. Winds were consistently from the NE all day. Wind speeds picked up a bit in the afternoon but died back down by the end of the day. Some darker cloud cover/possible precipitation could be seen to the W of us at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: It was a fun day of migration today with birds most active in the late morning and end of the day. Birds in the morning commonly took a western flight line over Mt Morrison, often being spotted high and N of us, making some IDs challenging. Accipitrines dominated the count this morning with both Cooper's Hawks and Sharp-shinned Hawks moving. In the afternoon we had a great American Kestrel flight. At one point we had six AK overhead moving N with a small group of Turkey Vultures. The majority of our Kestrels came within 30-50 m of the hawk watch, putting on a great show. These late afternoon falcon flights continue to be a highlight of this site.
Local raptors spotted today included a pair of Golden Eagles, a handful of Red-tailed Hawks, and of course our local Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 5, Broad-tailed Hummingbird 1, Double-crested Cormorant 6, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, American Crow 3, Common Raven 2, swalow sp. 3, American Bushtit 7, Rock Wren 1, House Finch 3, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 2
Predictions: Tomorrow's conditions are expected to be similar to today with E winds for a good chunk of the day and moderately warm temperatures. There is a slight chance for precipitation in the afternoon, so a rain coat is recommended. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 4/6/26 12:51 pm From: kevygudguy via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Townsends Solitaire - west Centennial, Arapahoe County
Hello Fellow Birders,
While doing Cornell's Feeder Watch in my little townhouse yard 1/4 mile northwest of the intersection of Holly & Arapahoe a solitary Solitaire deigned to take a few sips at one of my birdbaths. I've seen them here once or twice before, but this is the first time one chose to be documented in Feeder Watch.
Keep Smilin',Kevin Corwinwest Centennial, Arapahoe County Sent from my Remington Rand Typewriter via my Rotary Dial Wall Phone
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Date: 4/6/26 9:12 am From: Lesley Brown <brown.lesley.steve...> Subject: [cobirds] FOS Broad-tailed hummingbird
Yesterday about 5:30 pm we had a female broad-tailed hummingbird sitting on the nectar feeder. It sat for several minutes, I didn't see it drinking. Super early for us, but I'd seen the reports the last week so I had the feeder ready. : )
Lesley Brown Highlands Ranch Douglas County
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Date: 4/6/26 9:06 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Adopt a Colorado Breeding Bird Survey Route
I am posting an update and another plea for skilled birders to adopt a
route for the *North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS)*. The BBS is a
long-term, large-scale, international avian monitoring program initiated in
1966 to track the status and trends of North American bird populations. Each
year from late May to early July skilled birders collect bird population
data along roadside survey routes. Each survey route is 24.5 miles long
with stops situated 0.5-mile apart. At each stop, a 3-minute point count is
conducted and every bird seen or heard within a 0.25-mile radius or heard
is recorded. Routes are surveyed just once each season, following the same
roads and making the same stops each year. Over 4100 survey routes in the
continental U.S. and Canada provide an index of population abundance that
is used to estimate population trends and relative abundances at various
geographic scales. See what it is all about here in this video: Ups and
Downs in Colorado <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUSDQZrq-eM>
*Colorado currently has 15 “vacant” routes that need skilled volunteer
observers* who can commit to adopting a route for at least three years.
(See list of routes below). Help is especially needed for routes on the
eastern prairie and in southwestern Colorado. Declining grassland bird
numbers are one of the greatest concerns, so it would be especially great
to increase BBS coverage of Colorado's prairie routes.
*Requirements for participation* are: (1) access to transportation to
complete a survey, (2) good hearing and eyesight, and (3) the ability to
identify the breeding birds in the area by sight and sound. The data is
collected by just the assigned observer, but a companion could assist with
driving or recording the data in the field. Knowledge of bird songs and
calls is extremely important, because most birds counted on the surveys are
detected by sound. A BBS survey requires about five hours to complete, plus
travel to and from the route location.
*Contact me directly at <dsuddjian...> <dsuddjian...>if you are
interested in a route **or have questions. *Route requests made via the BBS
webpage may not reach me. Thanks!
Route # Route Name County Location
17-20 Boyero Lincoln
17-44 Bethune Kit Carson
17-52 Dolores Riv Dolores
17-55 Alamosa Conejos, Alamosa
17-59 Pleasant View Dolores
17-126 Cone Mtn Las Animas
17-153 Rio Grand Res Mineral, Hinsdale
17-207 Amherst Phillips, Sedgwick
17-214 Kirk Kit Carson
17-220 Haswell Bent, Kiowa
17-314 Burlington Kit Carson, Yuma
17-321 Sheridan Lake Kiowa, Prowers
17-322 Mcphee Res Dolores, Montezuma
17-324 South Fork Rio Grande
17-373 Lizard Head Pass San Miguel, Dolores
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:15:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers: Marina Prado-Echeagaray
Visitors: 9 visitors. We had a few birders come by to visit and enjoyed all the morning excitement together.
Thanks to our wonderful team today: Kristen McCarthy, Ric Olson, Ajit and Liza Antony, Caroline Fegley, Chris and Cayce Gulbransen, and Steve Price. Days like these are made so much easier with all your great spotting and diligent observation of high soaring birds!
Weather: It was another beautiful spring day with light E winds, a times shifting NE or SE. Cloud cover was minimal, with a few low clouds in the west in the afternoon. Temperatures were moderate to slightly warm. Many paragliders were out soaring on the abundant thermals to the west.
Raptor Observations: Raptors were out early with local birds already active at the start of the count. We had good movement of accipitrines today with mostly Cooper's Hawks but also a few Sharp-shinned Hawks. An Osprey passed high over the ridge in the first hour. A few Red-tailed Hawks migrated as well, gaining good height and often soaring to the limits of our binoculars. In the afternoon, we had a number of American Kestrels and one Prairie Falcon speed past. Some AKs came directly past the ridge close, but many were distant to the west.
The local Golden Eagles were active today as well, and Turkey Vultures continued to roam around, with only a few going north. Non-raptor sightings include 10 American White Pelicans and a singing Canyon Wren. We had an unusually high count of seven balloons today.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 27, Feral Pigeon 3, American White Pelican 10, American Crow 5, Common Raven 4, American Bushtit 1, Canyon Wren 1, House Finch 1, Pine Siskin 2, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be another day of pleasant weather! Light E and NE winds are predicted with cloud cover starting partial but increasing in late afternoon. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid 50s F to high 60s F. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 4/5/26 9:30 am From: 'jim_tyler' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] FOS Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Jeffco, Golden
Ira -
Interesting, and sorry to hear it.
Here in Roxborough we of course have Crows and Magpies at the platform
feeder and on the ground seed, House Finches at the cage feeders, but
that's year-round.
Numerous Robins have shown up.
A couple of Says Phoebes are in the area.
At least one pair of Great Horned Owls are active. The female flew 6
feet over my head a couple of days ago in the evening. (Several years
ago, before dawn, I heard 4 Great Horned Owls calling.)
A couple of Scrub Jays show up periodically. Blue Jays were more
prevalent earlier in the year, still in the neighborhood but only
occasionally at the feeders now.
White Crown Sparrows and Juncos still in the yard, mostly in the
mornings before the big guys show up.
A couple of Black Cap Chickadees persist, and Nuthatches can be heard in
the neighborhood and occasionally show up at feeders.
Mountain Bluebirds are heard occasionally, but numbers seem to be
declining over the past couple of years.. Spotted Towhee numbers do seem
to be down but they still hit the yard.
Adult and juvenile Flickers are prevalent this year. I've had 5 at a
time in the yard earlier this year, and still see two at a time on the
cage feeder.
Some Goldfinches, both American and Lesser, were around all winter, and
we've seen both in full summer plumage today.
Numerous Pigeons appear in the back yard daily, and a couple of
Accipiters have been thinning their numbers.
I had 3 Eurasian Collared Doves a while back but they've disappeared. A
Mourning Dove is currently visiting the yard.
Definitely fewer overall.
Jim Tyler
Roxborough
On 4/4/2026 5:37 PM, Ira Sanders wrote:
> Birders,
> We had our 1st BTHU of the year today. Our feeder was already out
> thanks to the postings on Cobirds of Hummers returning.
> On a different note, I'm suspecting that other birders with feeders
> may be experiencing the dearth of birds, of any shape or kind, around
> their yards and feeders.
> We have no one visiting our feeders. I put oil sunflower in the
> hanging tray and it hasn't been touched. It's always empty in 1 or 2
> days, but right now it hasn't been touched. Not even Scrub Jays. The
> only birds singing around here are Spotted Towhee, Robin, and House
> Finch. Tammy saw a Say's Phoebe today. That's it. Dead.
> I hope everyone else is doing better than we are.
>
>
> --
> Ira Sanders
> Golden, CO
> "My mind is a raging torrent flooded with rivulets of thought
> cascading into a waterfall of creative alternatives." Blazing Saddles
> --
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers: Laura Farnsworth
Visitors: 13 Visitors. We had a mix of birders and hikers today. Paragliders were also seen soaring around Mount Morrison.
We thank Pam Moore, Sara Painter, and Taylor Carlisle for volunteering today! We appreciate you for your great spotting and for being so welcoming to visitors.
Weather: It was a beautiful spring day with light southeast winds and only a brief cloud or two. Temperatures started as cool but warmed a bit as the day passed.
Raptor Observations: Today we had a few migrating raptors, with American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures as the most common of the day. Many birds were distant and visible with binoculars only, either overhead or to the west, and even local birds were gaining good height.
A local Red-tailed Hawk was observed chasing off a migrating Bald Eagle and stooped making contact with the eagle's talons! They quickly separated and the eagle continued on its way. Another highlight was watching a group of seven Turkey Vultures glide directly overhead.
Local American Kestrel activity was higher than previous days, with both males and females hunting and perching nearby. We also saw swifts and swallows today, including our first Barn Swallow.
Non-raptor Observations: Mallard 2, White-throated Swift 27, Mourning Dove 2, American White Pelican 2, Northern Flicker 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Magpie 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, American Crow 1, Common Raven 6, Tree Swallow 7, Barn Swallow 1, swalow sp. 4, American Bushtit 1, Rock Wren 1, Townsend's Solitaire 1, House Finch 2, Pine Siskin 1, Dark-eyed Junco 1, Spotted Towhee 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, expect more sun and a calm wind to the north and northeast. Temperatures are predicted to start cool in the high 40s F in the morning but reach the mid 60s F by late afternoon. Bring layers and sunscreen! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 4/4/26 4:38 pm From: Ira Sanders <zroadrunner14...> Subject: [cobirds] FOS Broad-tailed Hummingbird, Jeffco, Golden
Birders, We had our 1st BTHU of the year today. Our feeder was already out thanks to the postings on Cobirds of Hummers returning. On a different note, I'm suspecting that other birders with feeders may be experiencing the dearth of birds, of any shape or kind, around their yards and feeders. We have no one visiting our feeders. I put oil sunflower in the hanging tray and it hasn't been touched. It's always empty in 1 or 2 days, but right now it hasn't been touched. Not even Scrub Jays. The only birds singing around here are Spotted Towhee, Robin, and House Finch. Tammy saw a Say's Phoebe today. That's it. Dead. I hope everyone else is doing better than we are.
-- Ira Sanders Golden, CO "My mind is a raging torrent flooded with rivulets of thought cascading into a waterfall of creative alternatives." Blazing Saddles
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Date: 4/4/26 9:29 am From: Raymond Davis <davisblackdog...> Subject: [cobirds] FOY Larimer County hummingbird
4/3... bad look through window.... probably a male broad-tailed.
Davis at the very south border of Larimer County above Lyons.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 3 Visitors. The Jeffco trail maintenance crew stopped and asked about our sightings. We are thankful for all the hard work they do to maintain the trails!
We also thank Leslie Dixon and Lauren Friesen for volunteering with us today! Your kestrel spotting was very appreciated.
Weather: Wind was the theme at the ridge today - winds were to the W and NW at 20-30 mph sustained, with gusts at times reaching nearly 40 mph. Winds were most intense in the morning and early afternoon, calming to 10-15 mph for a brief period in midday, and again in the final hour of the count.
Temperatures were moderate in the mid to high 40s F, and skies were sunny until dense cloud cover moved into the west half of the sky at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Despite the high west winds, we had a good amount of migration today, especially American Kestrels. A few RTs and TVs went distant on the west side, but the vast majority of the birds were low close to the ridge and visible to the unaided eye. Accipitrines were largely absent today, with the only migrant being an adult Cooper's Hawk overhead in the morning.
AKs were the most numerous migrant, coming past near eye level. Despite their size, these tiny falcons navigated the strong winds well and gave us fantastic views throughout the day! We also had a Peregrine Falcon fly fast overhead - our first juvenile of the year.
Turkey Vultures made a strong showing as well, with both migrants and locals teetering about. In the early afternoon, we had a group of ten start low over Green Mountain before gaining height behind us and streaming north as a group.
There was also a good presence of White-throated Swifts at the ridge today!
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 22, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 2, American Crow 1, Common Raven 4, Black-capped Chickadee 2, American Bushtit 3
Predictions: Tomorrow, expect full sun and moderate temperatures (50-60 F), with winds starting light and variable in the morning, but shifting southeast in the afternoon. Bring sunscreen! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 4/3/26 4:00 pm From: Zak Hepler <zakhepler...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Southern Plains Birding Festival 2026 (OUT OF STOCK)
Southern Plains Birding Festival 2026
SOLD OUT!
We have officially sold ALL of our festival tickets this year. Thank you to
all the attendees who are just as excited as we are to have you on the
prairie in southeastern Colorado on May 9th-10th (midday). See y'all soon. [image:
SOLDOUT_SPBF26.png]
Zak Hepler
Jefferson County, Colorado
On Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 5:26:13 PM UTC-7 Zak Hepler wrote:
> Not sure why my formatting for text got messed up in my original message.
> Resending now. If it messes up again, so be it. I don't want to spam. :)
>
> This year marks the inaugural Southern Plains Birding Festival. Join us
> in Bent County, CO from May 9th to May 10th, as we explore the short-grass
> prairie on private preserves while supporting a great non-profit!
>
> *What*: Southern Plains Birding Festival *When*: May 9th-May 10th
> (Midday)
> *Who*: Southern Plains Land Trust (https://southernplains.org/en/)
> *Why*: To support the conservation of short-grass prairie habitat and
> grassland bird species. All proceeds from festival tickets, t-shirts,
> cabins, and/or campsites go directly towards this effort.
> *Where*: Bent County, CO (*specific directions will be given after ticket
> purchase to protect privacy*)
> *How*: Purchase a $40 admission ticket and RSVP for guided walks!
> *Walks*: There will be private preserve-hosted, bird-focused,
> herptology-focused, and even flora-focused walks throughout the day!
> 5 walks are offered in the morning (Saturday, May 9th)
> 5 walks are offered in the afternoon (Saturday, May 9th)
> -The same routes are offered twice that day so you don't miss out!-
> 3 walks are offered in the following morning (Sunday, May 10th)
> *Lodging*: Campsite ($10) Cabin ($50) or stay in Lamar, CO. Only 2 cabins
> available.
> *Website*: https://www.southernplainsbirdingfestival.org/ Please join us
> in the prairie, for a wonderful birding adventure, May 9th-10th.
>
> On Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 5:23:34 PM UTC-7 Zak Hepler wrote:
>
>> This year marks the inaugural Southern Plains Birding Festival. Join us
>> in Bent County, CO from May 9th to May 10th, as we explore the short-grass
>> prairie on private preserves while supporting a great non-profit! *What*:
>> Southern Plains Birding Festival *When*: May 9th-May 10th (Midday) *Who*:
>> Southern Plains Land Trust (https://southernplains.org/en/) *Why*: To
>> support the conservation of short-grass prairie habitat and grassland bird
>> species. All proceeds from festival tickets, t-shirts, cabins, and/or
>> campsites go directly towards this effort. *Where*: Bent County, CO (*specific
>> directions will be given after ticket purchase to protect privacy*) *How*:
>> Purchase a $40 admission ticket and RSVP for guided walks! *Walks*:
>> There will be private preserve-hosted, bird-focused, herptology-focused,
>> and even flora-focused walks throughout the day! 5 walks are offered in the
>> morning (Saturday, May 9th) 5 walks are offered in the afternoon (Saturday,
>> May 9th) -The same routes are offered twice that day so you don't miss
>> out!- 3 walks are offered in the following morning (Sunday, May 10th)
>> *Lodging*: Campsite ($10) Cabin ($50) or stay in Lamar, CO. Only 2
>> cabins available. *Website*:
>> https://www.southernplainsbirdingfestival.org/ Please join us in the
>> prairie, for a wonderful birding adventure, May 9th-10th.
>>
>> Zak Hepler
>> Jefferson County, CO PS- This non-profit festival message has been
>> approved by David to post in COBirds. 🦬
>>
>> [image: Flyer SPLT Birding Festival (1).png]
>>
>
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors:
We had a great group from Denver Audubon up this morning for a few hours
and they got to experience a great taste of migration. We had a total of 13
other visitors today.
Thank you to Charlene Warneke for bringing the counters lunch today� you�re
the best.
Thank you to Dale Campau and Ryan Gannon for volunteering their time to
help us spot birds today!
Weather:
The sun was out all day today with minimal cloud cover present. Some
scattered clouds helped us spot birds but didn�t provide much relief from
that strong Colorado sun. Winds were light from the E for most of the day
before switching NW and picking up to about 30 km/h in the last hour.
Raptor Observations:
Migration was off with a bang this morning, putting on a show for the field
trip! We had overhead accipitrines, Red-tailed Hawks, and Turkey Vultures
for everyone to enjoy. After the first two hours of the day birds slowed
down a bit and got higher in their flight lines. Most birds came overhead
or west of us today. We had a nice presence of accipitrines all day.
American Kestrels were missed today.
Local Red-tailed Hawks were especially aggressive today hounding any
migrants that came through. Turkey Vultures continue to move N and S and N
and S all day!
Non-raptor Observations:
White-throated Swift 3, Broad-tailed Hummingbird 1, Ring-billed Gull 1,
Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 2, Common Raven 2,
Black-capped Chickadee 2, American Bushtit 3, House Finch 3, Eurasian
Siskin 1, Spotted Towhee 1
Predictions:
Winds are predicted to be strong tomorrow but hopefully we still have birds
moving. If you are planning on coming up, bring an extra layer!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's
hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other
raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey,
Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks,
American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 8 Visitors. Two birders came in the morning to enjoy the migration and watched the TVs circle right overhead.
Thank you to Janet Peters and Kathie Moses for their help today!
Weather: The morning was cool and overcast, with winds light from the east intensifying from the north as the rain approached. In the late morning, rain was visible in the north and west but avoided the ridge until a light drizzle started in the early afternoon.
The rain intensified a bit before pausing for around 15 minutes, before picking up again for around 45 mins until the count was ended at 14:30 MST due to rain with continuing rain in the forecast.
Raptor Observations: Despite the shortened day, there was a lot of activity, with many birds low past the ridge or to the west.
Thermals seemed few and far between with Red-tailed Hawks often flapping near continuously until they reached one. At one point, we had 7 RTs at once on the bare slope - some local and some migrants. A kettle of 6 Turkey Vultures were originally spotted over Green Mountain, but soared directly overhead before streaming north.
A highlight of the day was three total Osprey on the west side, two within a few minutes of each other. There was a steady stream of activity until right before the light rain started - we had a final push of three American Kestrels and a Cooper's Hawk all at eye level on the east.
The light rain seemed to suppress even local activity, but when the rain let up for a brief period, we had a burst of activity, with birds low and close by. After the rain continued and intensified, the activity came to a halt once again.
Non-raptor Observations: Northern Flicker 2, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 1, American Robin 2, House Finch 1, American Goldfinch 1, Pine Siskin 5, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, expect sunny skies with temperatures warming up from the mid 50s F in the AM to a high of 70 F in late afternoon. Winds are predicted from the SW, increasing from mild to moderate as the day progresses. Bring layers and expect that trails may be muddy from today's rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 4/1/26 5:22 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Next BIRD BOMBS Habitat Blast: At the Feet of the Foothills Apr 23
Hi CoBirders,
You can register now for the DFO's next BIRD BOMBS explosion *Habitat Blast: At the Feet of the Foothills* <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mDSvJ_dRSwOzNTIj-KVFbw?ampDeviceId=5585655f-94c1-4415-ae#/registration>, set to go off on April 23 at 7 pm (MT). Join this free Zoom webinar and learn about the bird communities of the hogback zone and the lowest foothill slopes. We'll focus on the Front Range and Rampart Range region, but the presentation will apply to similar settings elsewhere in Colorado, too. This strip of Colorado includes some of our most beloved parks and birding spots.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors:
We had 6 visitors to the ridge today, including Bill Hancock and his wife
Lindsay from Maine.
We also had a small homeschool group from Denver Audubon come up in the
morning to learn about the hawk watch and raptor migration. While we didn�t
have too many birds flying, they did get to see a close Red-tailed Hawk a
few times, and learned a lot!
Thanks to Bill Young and Chip Dawes for volunteering their time today to
help spot birds.
Weather:
Temperatures were much lower today than yesterday. Clouds were heavy and
covered the sky all day. For a few moments the sun managed to poke out
giving us some warmth. Winds switched directions starting from the E,
moving NNW, and ending back out of the E at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations:
Raptor activity was minimal in the morning as it has been on some of our
slower days recently. A couple of birds moved along the western ridge
before the afternoon. In the afternoon birds picked up a bit, with many of
them coming low overhead. American Kestrels have had a great presence
already this year and made up just about half of our count for the day
today. The highlight of the day was in the last hour when an Osprey came
overhead no more than 20 m above us. A second Osprey was seen taking a low
line over the Morrison ridge not 10 minutes later.
Non-raptor activity was also low today with some of our local birds only
singing a few times throughout the day. We did have 4 Double-crested
Cormorants move N along Green Mountain.
Non-raptor Observations:
Broad-tailed Hummingbird 1, Double-crested Cormorant 4, Northern Flicker 2,
American Crow 1, Common Raven 2, Black-capped Chickadee 1, American Bushtit
3, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 1, Spotted Towhee 1, Western
Meadowlark 2
Predictions:
Thunderstorms (so early!) are predicted for tomorrow afternoon. We are
hoping to get some birds counted before that happens!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's
hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other
raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey,
Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks,
American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/31/26 6:02 am From: Charles Hundertmark <chundertmark8...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Question about Cobirds.org
For clarification, <info...> is the email address for questions to
Colorado Field Ornithologists (CFO). Emails to that address are viewed by
members of the CFO board who read those emails and respond. Thomas
Heinrich's question posted to Cobirds on March 29 related to an issue with
CFO. It is being addressed internally by CFO board members. A separate
response has been sent to Mr. Heinrich.
Chuck Hundertmark, President
Colorado Field Ornithologists
On Monday, March 30, 2026 at 7:54:38 AM UTC-6 John Rawinski wrote:
> Hi Thomas: I still do as part of checking in on topics, bird sightings
> etc. Since I live in the San Luis Valley, it is often my only connection to
> Statewide topics and discussions.
> To be honest, I do check some FB pages, but have become increasingly less
> enamored with all the "stuff" FB throws at you. I also use eBird for recent
> site visits and I enjoy some Colorado Bird Photography sites. So I use a
> lot of tools in the box.
>
> As examples, I have enjoyed reading the Cassia Crossbill comments, as well
> as Eastern vs Western Warbling Vireo topics on COBIRDS. That is certainly
> something I am not going to find on most FB pages. The dialogues have been
> insightful, civil, (thanks David!) and diverse.
>
> For close to 30 years, I managed a San Luis Valley Birding Network, an
> info line for bird observations. This consisted of about 110 local birders
> connected on an email list, but was not limited to local birders. Some
> front range birders used it as a connection to the SLV. The network helped
> connect us isolated birders in the San Luis Valley with exciting and local
> bird news. Oftentimes, a SLV post was shared with COBIRDS. We often did big
> day events, Migratory Spring Bird Counts, and fundraisers for local
> conservation groups like Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust, Food Banks and
> others.
>
> After at least 30 years, I recently had to surrender it to FB so I could
> focus on health issues and other life things. So that is my perspective on
> it.
>
> Spring is in the air and new birds are arriving daily. Cranes are but a
> memory, and a great year it was. But onto the greening thickets, smells of
> fresh spring, and the new bird arrivals!
>
> John Rawinski
> Monte Vista, CO
>
> On Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 12:11:04 PM UTC-6 Thomas Heinrich wrote:
>
>> Who reads and/or responds to emails sent to <in......>?
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Thomas Heinrich
>> Boulder, CO
>> <Nyc......>
>>
>
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors: We had a total of 12 visitors on the ridge today, including a few who stayed for 30 minutes to over an hour to see migrants!
Thanks to Clay Gibson and Mike Serruto for their continued support and company on Mondays.
Weather: Temperatures were in the high 20s Celsius all day with scattered clouds. Weather was overall pleasant for most of the day short of a few strong wind gusts. Winds were highly variable in direction and speed, from E winds that could barely be felt, to N and SW winds that came with some good gusts. Barometric pressure dropped quicker than normal throughout the day today.
Raptor Observations: Migration was heavily stunted today for whatever reason. The winds? Maybe. A few accipitrines, Red-tailed Hawks, and Turkey Vultures made up our count today. There was no clear line that these birds were taking.
The local Turkey Vultures have officially moved in. First thing today we had a group of 10 kettle over Green Mountain, move W to the Dakota Hogback, move NW to near Mother Cabrini, and head SW. Classic. We also had a dark-morph Red-tailed Hawk fly perfectly N before getting mobbed by a local RT, making that bird tuck tail and go S again. Weird movements today.
Passerine and non-raptor activity was also very still today!
Non-raptor Observations: American White Pelican 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 3, Black-capped Chickadee 1, American Bushtit 2, Spotted Towhee 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Temperatures drop tomorrow and winds shift E. I'm hoping for a bit more of a push tomorrow before possible precipitation on Wednesday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
-- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate. * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<0101019d41c7cc50-d406028b-9dec-4a9a-8a0d-a1b8a4b1f5f6-000000...>
Date: 3/30/26 8:43 am From: <2mi......> <2mikef...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Fwd: DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
On Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 11:47:11 AM UTC-6 Scott Rashid wrote:
> Thank you
>
> On Sun, Mar 29, 2026 at 12:43 PM David Suddjian <dsud......> wrote:
>
>> Scott's webinar talk for DFO is tomorrow at 7:00 pm. Register here
>> <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6pSaSBxxRtK4sjtXNeQm5A#/registration> >>
>> David Suddjian
>> Littleton, CO
>>
>>
>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
>> From: David Suddjian <dsud......>
>> Date: Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 8:07 AM
>> Subject: DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back!
>> Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
>> To: Colorado Birds <cob......>, David Suddjian <
>> <dsud......>
>>
>>
>> *Scott Rashid presents “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds:
>> Get ready for two of the most beloved birds in North America.” On Zoom with
>> DFO at 7pm on March 30.*
>>
>> Register here for Blue-Mmers are Back
>> <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6pSaSBxxRtK4sjtXNeQm5A#/registration> >>
>> Come join us for DFO’s free Zoom webinar with Scott Rashid presenting on
>> two of the most beloved groups of North America birds, bluebirds and
>> hummingbirds. Bluebirds arrive in Colorado in February, and the
>> hummingbirds appear in April. The focus will be on Scott’s home area of the
>> Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park. For the bluebirds, learn
>> about the habitats each species prefers and where they can be found, where
>> they nest, and where to place nest boxes for them. Enjoy images of their
>> eggs, nestlings, and fledglings. Scott will also discuss the hummingbird
>> research he has been conducting for more than a decade. Scott will share
>> the amazing adaptations that only hummingbirds have, including their unique
>> ability to fly in any direction (including backwards!) and what their
>> colored throat patch is used for. See images and videos of courtship
>> activities, feeding, nest building, and the females feeding their young.
>> Learn the proper mixture of sugar and water to fill your feeders, and how
>> to properly care for them.
>>
>> --
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "Colorado Birds" group.
>> To post to this group, send email to <cob......>
>> For more options, visit this group at
>> http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds >> * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city.
>> Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate.
>> * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ >> ---
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "Colorado Birds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to cobirds+<u......>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<CAGj6Ror0JkLLhphpBUBFuTWJ-DVBCVCeob5hukQSjyU4rT-ZVw...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<CAGj6Ror0JkLLhphpBUBFuTWJ-DVBCVCeob5hukQSjyU4rT-ZVw...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
>
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Date: 3/30/26 6:54 am From: John Rawinski <johnrawinski0...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Question about Cobirds.org
Hi Thomas: I still do as part of checking in on topics, bird sightings
etc. Since I live in the San Luis Valley, it is often my only connection to
Statewide topics and discussions.
To be honest, I do check some FB pages, but have become increasingly less
enamored with all the "stuff" FB throws at you. I also use eBird for recent
site visits and I enjoy some Colorado Bird Photography sites. So I use a
lot of tools in the box.
As examples, I have enjoyed reading the Cassia Crossbill comments, as well
as Eastern vs Western Warbling Vireo topics on COBIRDS. That is certainly
something I am not going to find on most FB pages. The dialogues have been
insightful, civil, (thanks David!) and diverse.
For close to 30 years, I managed a San Luis Valley Birding Network, an info
line for bird observations. This consisted of about 110 local birders
connected on an email list, but was not limited to local birders. Some
front range birders used it as a connection to the SLV. The network helped
connect us isolated birders in the San Luis Valley with exciting and local
bird news. Oftentimes, a SLV post was shared with COBIRDS. We often did big
day events, Migratory Spring Bird Counts, and fundraisers for local
conservation groups like Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust, Food Banks and
others.
After at least 30 years, I recently had to surrender it to FB so I could
focus on health issues and other life things. So that is my perspective on
it.
Spring is in the air and new birds are arriving daily. Cranes are but a
memory, and a great year it was. But onto the greening thickets, smells of
fresh spring, and the new bird arrivals!
John Rawinski
Monte Vista, CO
On Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 12:11:04 PM UTC-6 Thomas Heinrich wrote:
> Who reads and/or responds to emails sent to <in......>?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Thomas Heinrich
> Boulder, CO
> <Nyc......>
>
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.88 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 19 visitors. We had another DFO trip visit this morning! The group was able to see raptors at all distances including close a close RT, AK, CH and SS. Thank you to Jason Bidgood for leading the trip.
We also saw many dogs on the trails today, including one wearing a baseball cap!
Thank you also to our volunteers Janet Peters, Chris Gulbransen, and Cayce Gulbransen for all the help and great spotting today!
Weather: The day quickly warmed and we spent most the day in the low 80s F. Cloud cover was thin and wispy but extensive in the morning. While the thin clouds faded, in the later afternoon we had mostly cloudy skies with more defined denser clouds, at times blocking the sun.
The wind was light, except for a windier period midday. Winds started as west but switched to east in midafternoon.
Raptor Observations: Raptor activity slowed a bit today compared to the past few days, but we had a Sharp-shinned Hawk, and two American Kestrels migrate in the first hour close overhead, as well as a distant Cooper's Hawk. After that, activity was quieter with a few birds per hour from late morning to midafternoon, mostly far on the west side. Highlights included an Osprey gliding through the sky in the late afternoon, and a Northern Harrier soaring high to the west in the final hour of the count.
There was a lot of Turkey Vulture activity throughout the day, but none seemed to want to migrate, often gliding quite far north before turning around.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 8, Say's Phoebe 1, Steller's Jay 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Magpie 1, American Crow 2, Common Raven 5, Black-capped Chickadee 1, House Finch 1, Pine Siskin 1, Spotted Towhee 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, similar high temperatures are predicted with highs near 80F. Cloud cover is predicted to vary from partly cloudy to mostly sunny.
West winds are predicted, starting as light in the morning intensifying in the afternoon, with possible wind gusts of up to 29 MPH forecasted. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
-- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate. * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<0101019d3cd2db18-a47a801e-0f4d-4fc0-916a-2940353b852e-000000...>
Date: 3/29/26 5:01 pm From: Kirstin C. <kirstinaec...> Subject: [cobirds] Band-tailed Pigeons in Fraser
Twice today I saw a pair of Band-tailed Pigeons eating seed below my bird feeders today. This was a first for me, but with the crazy warm weather and seeing as we haven't had snow on the ground in our yard for several weeks, it's not surprising, I guess. I couldn't get photos because they were very skittish and flew off every time I tried to sneak outside with my camera or open a window to take a picture. I also saw my FOY male Cassin's Finch.
Kirstin Chapman
Fraser
Grand County
Sent from my iPad
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Date: 3/29/26 4:48 pm From: Cassie Cranmore <cassiecranmore...> Subject: [cobirds] NoCo Bird Alliance 4/9 Program - Online & In Person
[image: Beige Minimalist Stay Tuned Coming Soon Instagram Post (Facebook
Post (Square)).png]April 9th Program - “Feathers Through Time” with Harper
Bovberg
This talk will focus on how different cultures throughout history have
portrayed birds and why they made the decisions they did in those
portrayals. Mostly centering on visual art mediums, this discussion goes
back thousands of years and around the world to look at the long-lasting
human fascination with our feathered companions. Each section will discuss
what birds are represented, how they're portrayed, why they're portrayed
that way, and what it says about the culture that made the art.
Harper Bovberg has spent her life in Colorado around artists and
historians. It was logical for her to attend CSU and get a bachelor's
degree in history. Her unique theatrical and visual focus means the
subjects she explores are less about what something is and more about why
it is that way. Despite not being a birder or birdwatcher herself, her
knowledge of art and visual choices lends a unique perspective.
Mark your calendar and join us in person for this informative program that
is free and open to the public. Or via Zoom link -
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84217055396 <https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84217055396?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYVhIaEFPNDdpall5bUhQOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDzUxNDc3MTU2OTIyODA2MQABHgd94FGfyK8L4JsmQkAPX9UgsUPfEyusr9t91nKzRFWuJXcKJ7Y7n6NRk4Hy_aem_TDgDAHHv6iuZAnXgVJQAHg>
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Date: 3/29/26 4:46 pm From: Cassie Cranmore <cassiecranmore...> Subject: [cobirds] April 9th Program - “Feathers Through Time” with Harper Bovberg - Online & In Person
[image: Beige Minimalist Stay Tuned Coming Soon Instagram Post (Facebook
Post (Square)).png]April 9th Program - “Feathers Through Time” with Harper
Bovberg
This talk will focus on how different cultures throughout history have
portrayed birds and why they made the decisions they did in those
portrayals. Mostly centering on visual art mediums, this discussion goes
back thousands of years and around the world to look at the long-lasting
human fascination with our feathered companions. Each section will discuss
what birds are represented, how they're portrayed, why they're portrayed
that way, and what it says about the culture that made the art.
Harper Bovberg has spent her life in Colorado around artists and
historians. It was logical for her to attend CSU and get a bachelor's
degree in history. Her unique theatrical and visual focus means the
subjects she explores are less about what something is and more about why
it is that way. Despite not being a birder or birdwatcher herself, her
knowledge of art and visual choices lends a unique perspective.
Mark your calendar and join us in person for this informative program that
is free and open to the public. Or via Zoom link -
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84217055396
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Date: 3/29/26 11:11 am From: Thomas Heinrich <teheinrich...> Subject: [cobirds] Question about Cobirds.org
Who reads and/or responds to emails sent to <info...>?
Thanks,
Thomas Heinrich Boulder, CO <Nyctea...>
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Date: 3/29/26 10:47 am From: Scott Rashid <pygmyowl15...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Fwd: DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
Thank you
On Sun, Mar 29, 2026 at 12:43 PM David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> wrote:
> Scott's webinar talk for DFO is tomorrow at 7:00 pm. Register here
> <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6pSaSBxxRtK4sjtXNeQm5A#/registration> >
> David Suddjian
> Littleton, CO
>
>
> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
> From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...>
> Date: Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 8:07 AM
> Subject: DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back!
> Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
> To: Colorado Birds <cobirds...>, David Suddjian <
> <dsuddjian...>
>
>
> *Scott Rashid presents “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds:
> Get ready for two of the most beloved birds in North America.” On Zoom with
> DFO at 7pm on March 30.*
>
> Register here for Blue-Mmers are Back
> <https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6pSaSBxxRtK4sjtXNeQm5A#/registration> >
> Come join us for DFO’s free Zoom webinar with Scott Rashid presenting on
> two of the most beloved groups of North America birds, bluebirds and
> hummingbirds. Bluebirds arrive in Colorado in February, and the
> hummingbirds appear in April. The focus will be on Scott’s home area of the
> Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park. For the bluebirds, learn
> about the habitats each species prefers and where they can be found, where
> they nest, and where to place nest boxes for them. Enjoy images of their
> eggs, nestlings, and fledglings. Scott will also discuss the hummingbird
> research he has been conducting for more than a decade. Scott will share
> the amazing adaptations that only hummingbirds have, including their unique
> ability to fly in any direction (including backwards!) and what their
> colored throat patch is used for. See images and videos of courtship
> activities, feeding, nest building, and the females feeding their young.
> Learn the proper mixture of sugar and water to fill your feeders, and how
> to properly care for them.
>
> --
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Colorado Birds" group.
> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...>
> For more options, visit this group at
> http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds > * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include
> bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate.
> * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ > ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Colorado Birds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<CAGj6Ror0JkLLhphpBUBFuTWJ-DVBCVCeob5hukQSjyU4rT-ZVw...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<CAGj6Ror0JkLLhphpBUBFuTWJ-DVBCVCeob5hukQSjyU4rT-ZVw...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
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Date: 3/29/26 10:44 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Fwd: DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...>
Date: Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 8:07 AM
Subject: DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back!
Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
To: Colorado Birds <cobirds...>, David Suddjian <
<dsuddjian...>
*Scott Rashid presents “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds:
Get ready for two of the most beloved birds in North America.” On Zoom with
DFO at 7pm on March 30.*
Come join us for DFO’s free Zoom webinar with Scott Rashid presenting on
two of the most beloved groups of North America birds, bluebirds and
hummingbirds. Bluebirds arrive in Colorado in February, and the
hummingbirds appear in April. The focus will be on Scott’s home area of the
Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park. For the bluebirds, learn
about the habitats each species prefers and where they can be found, where
they nest, and where to place nest boxes for them. Enjoy images of their
eggs, nestlings, and fledglings. Scott will also discuss the hummingbird
research he has been conducting for more than a decade. Scott will share
the amazing adaptations that only hummingbirds have, including their unique
ability to fly in any direction (including backwards!) and what their
colored throat patch is used for. See images and videos of courtship
activities, feeding, nest building, and the females feeding their young.
Learn the proper mixture of sugar and water to fill your feeders, and how
to properly care for them.
--
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers: Laura Farnsworth
Visitors: 8 Visitors. We had a nice group visit in the morning! One young visitor enjoyed spotting as many birds as he could - when his dad asked if hawkwatching or TV was better, he said hawkwatching without hesitation.
Thank you to our wonderful volunteers Sara Painter and Lauren Friesen today! We appreciated your spotting, especially in the heat of the morning.
Weather: This morning started sunny with scattered clouds and thin wispy cloud cover, with temperatures climbing to the high 70s to low 80s by mid-morning. In the afternoon, the skies gradually became overcast and temperatures cooled slightly. A few raindrops fell at one point, but not any real precipitation. Winds were light to the E and SE throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: We had another day of good movement with Red-tailed Hawks moving in the morning along with some Cooper's Hawks, American Kestrels, and a few Turkey Vultures. A local pair of Cooper's Hawks were also seen together, with the male performing an aerial display with slow deep wingbeats. The birds became less active overall once the cloud cover intensified from thin to overcast, although this didn't seem to deter the falcons, and we had a distant Merlin on the west side.
The highlight of our day was our first Peregrine Falcons spotted at the ridge! The first came by mid-day on a direct path north. An hour or so later, we saw two at once circling high overhead- we suspect this may be our local pair that's breeding at Red Rocks. Finally, we saw another PG at eye level right barreling past the ridge - it was out of sight in a matter of seconds.
Non-raptor Observations: Common Raven 12, Tree Swallow 3, Mountain Bluebird 1, House Finch 1, Pine Siskin 2, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, we expect high temperatures and lots of sun, with a few afternoon clouds. Winds are predicted to be light from the W and NW, with possible moderate gusts. For those with allergies, tree pollen is predicted to be high to very high for the next few days. Trails are dry.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/28/26 12:52 pm From: Robert Bierling <crossbill1...> Subject: [cobirds] Hummingbird Denver County Hampden and Monaco
March 27 Had a female Broad tailed Hummingbird flying around where we have our suet feeders yesterday. So nice to see. Have a feeder out now. Hope she comes back.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 5 visitors. We had a few birders visit the ridge today in the last hour. They had wonderful views of a female Northern Harrier low overhead before it circled higher into the sky.
Thank you to Holly Houser, Helen Berkman, Leslie Dixon, Mike Fernandez, and Myron Gerhard for volunteering today!
Weather: The morning started overcast and cool, a drastic change from prior days. Visibility was slightly decreased by fog. We had overcast skies until mid-afternoon, after which the cloud cover started to clear. By the end of the day, thin and partial cloud cover remained and skies were sunny.
Winds were light from the E throughout the day, shifting to NE in the final hour of the count.
Raptor Observations: In the cool and cloudy morning, we had an early push of migrants, and many eagles were active including 2 migrant BEs and a GE. After this initial period, activity was very quiet until midafternoon when the clouds shifted.
When the sun came out, so did the raptors! Thermals were quick to develop - First on the smaller peak north of Mt. Morrison. Many birds took advantage of this, and at once point 3 Cooper's Hawks were seen at once along with a few RTs. Later, a thermal developed directly overhead and more RTs came in. At once point we had twelve circling overhead and we counted them as they streamed out, even as more birds joined them. After this excitement, things slowed down but we had a few accipitrines and RTs continue on the west. An interesting dark morph Buteo was seen to the east with a cleanly banded black-and-white tail - possibly an early BW but looks were brief. We will have to see what the future holds.
We also welcomed back our local Rock Wren today!
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 8, Great Blue Heron 3, Northern Flicker 2, Magpie 4, Black-billed Magpie 2, American Crow 1, Common Raven 3, American Bushtit 6, Rock Wren 1, Western Bluebird 1, American Robin 1, Pine Siskin 2, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1, Red-winged Blackbird 1, Common Grackle 2
Predictions: Tomorrow, temperatures are forecasted to rise throughout the day, starting in the low 60s F but approaching the high 70s in the afternoon. Cloud cover is predicted to vary from few clouds in the morning to partly cloudy in the afternoon. Expect light to moderate winds to the west and southwest.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
-- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate. * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<0101019d32e51d51-1d40eee2-1435-4730-8794-0bedf3b47627-000000...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 18:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: We had 11 visitors stop by during our busy day today.
Thank you to our fabulous volunteers Cayce and Chris Gulbransen, Dale Campau, Ryan Gannon, and Jeff Birek for their help spotting distant birds today. Busy days like today would be much more chaotic without your help.
Weather: As we arrived to the ridge today winds were gusting higher than expected. Temperatures were high and clouds were scattered. Winds quickly died out revealing even warmer temperatures that settled in for the day. Cloud cover increased throughout the day before covering the sky when we left. Winds shifted a few times throughout the day but mostly stayed calm until the end of the day. A cold front is moving through this evening and we saw that in lowered temps and light precipitation on the hike out. Smoke from wildfires in Nebraska moved into the area in the late afternoon impacting visibility greatly.
Raptor Observations: What a day! Today was our highest count in March since 2022. The flight started immediately when we arrived and continued through about 1730 MST. Birds took the common western line- first spotted around Mt Morrison before getting great heights and heading N. Red-tailed Hawks dominated much of the morning for species, with American Kestrels dominating the second half of the day. In the early afternoon we had our busiest hour of 51 birds! During this hour birds seemed to pour out of the sky overhead and west of us, with the occasional bird coming E of us.
Highlights of the day include our FOY Osprey (three of them!), our FOY American Goshawk (a distant juvenile), and a number of close overhead Northern Harriers. We also got to enjoy our first kettle of Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations: Feral Pigeon 2, Sandhill Crane 4, American White Pelican 10, Steller's Jay 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Common Raven 2, Black-capped Chickadee 2, American Bushtit 3, American Robin 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Precipitation may come in overnight leaving temperatures low tomorrow with heavy cloud cover. The trail may be muddy. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/26/26 2:40 pm From: John Rawinski <johnrawinski0...> Subject: [cobirds] Need Help
Hi all. Been wanting to contact an old friend but not sure what his status is. Anyone know where I might contact Dan Bridges? He did bird work in the past in the SLV and I hoped to chat with him. Any info appreciated.
John Rawinski Monte Vista, CO
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Date: 3/26/26 12:30 pm From: Sandra Laursen <salaursen...> Subject: [cobirds] Boulder County Nature Association ecosymposium: Public Lands in Public Hands for the Public Good
I invite all of you to join the Boulder County Nature Association for our
2026 Ecosystem Symposium. We are tackling an important topic, the
protection of public lands at a time when they are being battered from all
sides.
*Public Lands in Public Hands for the Public Good: *
*Engaging law, policy, and advocacy to protect our shared natural heritage*
This symposium examines the risks arising from recent changes in federal
stewardship of public lands in Boulder County and beyond. Currently, about
242,000 acres of Boulder County’s 474,000 total acres are held as public
open space or federal lands—so this topic hits close to home as public
lands now face complex, evolving challenges. To learn more and to get a
ticket, visit https://bcna.org/2026ecosymposium/ <https://bcna.org/2026ecosymposium/>
The program includes:
- Lectures, moderated and informal conversations, poetry and images
- Expert speakers from law, natural resource management, public opinion
research, anthropology, Tribal Relations, and elected office
- Outreach tables from local environmental organizations
- Lunch, coffee, and fellowship for registered attendees
Together we will celebrate our public lands, examine current threats to
these lands, and build our courage and our toolkits for advocacy.
I've been working closely with the speakers and am quite excited about this
program. If you are on the fence about the topic, or worried that it will
be a downer, I encourage you to read the titles and abstracts recently
added to the website <https://bcna.org/2026ecosymposium/>. They are full of
inspiring ideas and words: collective power, hopeful future, common ground,
resilience. These speakers are not going to paper over the problems we
face, but they will remind us why our public lands are worth our best
efforts to protect them and will give us some ideas about how we can do
that.
Our greatest strength in this work is our solidarity - join with others who
care about public lands, on Saturday, April 4. Please join us if you can,
and please share with your networks even if you cannot attend. I would love
to see you there!
Sandra Laursen
Boulder County Nature Association volunteer
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 7 visitors. A few bikers and hikers were present today and were curious about what we were seeing, especially when the birds weren't visible to the unaided eye!
Thank you to Janet Peters, Jerry Arni, and Kathi Moses for volunteering today.
Weather: It was another hot day at the ridge, with record heat in the high 80s F. Winds started as moderate from the NW but died down in a few hours before shifting to a very slight E wind by the end of the count. Cloud cover was variable - the first and last hours were mostly cloudy, but there were few clouds in the midday.
Raptor Observations: It was a quieter morning with less local and migrant raptor activity than the previous few days. Two Cooper's Hawks and a distant American Kestrel were counted in the first few hours. Later, a migrant juvenile Red-tailed Hawk was chased off by two local adults. In the final few hours of the count, we saw RTs and AKs stream past quite high overhead. AKs were our most numerous migrant raptors of the day with a total of 9.
We had our first good flight of White-throated Swifts in the morning. A large Bullsnake and a few lizards were also active on the ridge.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 42, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 4, Black-capped Chickadee 2, Tree Swallow 2, American Bushtit 3, Mountain Bluebird 7, House Finch 2, Pine Siskin 1, Spotted Towhee 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, expect more high temperatures and mostly sunny skies with moderate winds shifting from W to N as the day goes on. There is a slight chance of showers after 3 PM.
A visitor informed us that they had spotted a young rattlesnake on the trail a day or two ago - make sure to look out for them when hiking to or from the hawkwatch! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors: We had 13 visitors along the ridge today! Sarah and Robert spent a few hours watching for us, unfortunately during the slow morning. We had two Denver Audubon employees visit in preparation for next weeks field trips up at the site. One man also came up when the Golden Eagle was present and got to enjoy the bird with us.
Thanks to Chip Dawes for volunteering today! Chip has been at the ridge for some pretty incredible moments, and is a great testament to the payoff that comes with dedication to anything, especially birding.
Weather: Today was a bit cooler than expected which was welcomed. Cloud cover was consistent throughout the day making for great spotting conditions. Winds were light all day and varied in direction from the E to the SW.
Raptor Observations: Migration was all but absent for the first few hours of the day before birds started coming. It started with a few sparse birds before we had 8 Red-tailed Hawks up at one time, with 4-5 kettling together at once. When those birds cleared out we got a few more birds moving N before migration died down again.
The absolute highlight of the day was when an adult Golden Eagle came and perched in a snag about 15 meters S right along the ridge in one of our snags. This bird stayed for 30 full minutes as people biked and hiked by. The bird seemed slightly bothered by this activity but not enough to move on. We had the best looks at a Golden Eagle either of us had ever seen (Emma and Chip) and we sat in awe as we could virtually count the golden feathers along the nape. This bird will be remembered for quite some time.
We also had local Red-tailed Hawks up for most of the day, per usual.
Non-raptor Observations: Northern Flicker 1, Steller's Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 3, Black-capped Chickadee 1, American Bushtit 2, Eastern Bluebird 1, American Robin 3, House Finch 2, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: High temperatures and strong sun return tomorrow! We are hoping that another push of migrants will also come with stronger thermals tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/24/26 9:18 am From: <charles......> <charlesachase3...> Subject: [cobirds] young male Bullocks back for more fun
Gone for about a week. He returned 3 days ago and is making daily visits feeding in the blooming plum and Russian olive, foraging on ground and of course working over the suet feeder
Charlie Potter Highlands Denver
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors: We started the day with a group of 7 women visiting the ridge from the local area. A few more visitors, including Jim Esten with DFO, stopped by throughout the day making the visitor count 13.
Thanks to Clay Gibson and Mike Serruto for your help spotting birds today!
Weather: Today was another extremely pleasant day after a long week of high winds and extreme temperatures. Clouds were scattered all day before becoming denser and heavier in the late afternoon. Winds varied in direction and reached speeds equivalent to a moderate breeze, according to the Beaufort scale. Humidity was in the 40-50% range, a great relief from the already extreme dryness we have experienced this season.
Raptor Observations: Migration was slower today than yesterday with American Kestrels being seen more than any other species. Birds took a W/overhead route today and got incredibly high in the mid-afternoon. Most of our migrants came in the first half of the day, with the afternoon being void of movement at times.
We continue to see one Turkey Vulture moving around the area but not going N. Red-tailed Hawks continue to be seen across the landscape throughout the day. We have noticed a significant decline in Golden Eagle presence, making us wonder if they have settled into the nest and spending less energy on courting.
5 Wild Turkeys were seen right on the ridge today! That's one species we don't see much of around the hawk watch. We also had 3 Sandhill Cranes move incredibly high overhead.
Non-raptor Observations: Wild Turkey 5, White-throated Swift 3, Sandhill Crane 3, American White Pelican 7, Northern Flicker 3, Say's Phoebe 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 4, Black-capped Chickadee 1, Mountain Bluebird 3, Townsend's Solitaire 1, House Finch 2, Dark-eyed Junco 1, Spotted Towhee 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Temperatures are predicted to be a little bit higher tomorrow with continued cloud cover. Winds are predicted to be variable in direction so it's hard to say what the flight will bring. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/23/26 1:45 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Sandhill Cranes Now - Centennial (Arapahoe)
Seventy-five (or so) Sandhill Cranes were flying northeast, high and vocalizing, just a few minutes ago (approx 2:40 PM), over University and Arapahoe in Centennial.
I'd guess they'll be over Cherry Creep SP and/or Aurora in not too long...
Jared Del Rosso Centennial, CO
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers: Marina Prado-Echeagaray
Visitors: We had 11 visitors at the ridge today including a pug named Walter.
Thank you to Cayce and Chris Gulbransen, Caroline Fegley, Laura Franzel, and Laura's friend Stace for their help today spotting and counting migrants!
Weather: A cold(er) front came in overnight leaving us with a perfect spring day that started out a bit chilled before warming up in the afternoon. Fog was present for the first few hours limiting visibility a bit. When the fog lifted a haze settled in and gradually got thicker throughout the day. Winds varied in direction but stayed light all day.
Raptor Observations: It has begun! We finally had the good early season push that we have been waiting for. Pretty quickly into the morning we started to see Red-tailed Hawks moving along a low and close W line. At times we had 6 RT up at once. All but one was a juvenile, and we also had a dark-morph calarus, and another Harlan's! This is our 5th Harlan's Red-tailed Hawk of the season, a record for this site. American Kestrels are starting to show up as well, and some could be seen harassing RTs. Birds eventually got higher throughout the day reaching a height of flight of 4/5. As we began packing up for the day we spotted an adult Ferruginous Hawk south of us and watched it slowly move N overhead.
Non-migrant Red-tailed Hawks, Bald Eagles, one Northern Harrier, and one Sharp-shinned Hawk were seen today.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 12, Eurasian Collared-Dove 2, Sandhill Crane 2, Northern Flicker 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 2, American Crow 2, Common Raven 4, American Bushtit 5, Mountain Bluebird 2, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 1, thrush sp. 2, House Finch 2, American Goldfinch 1, Pine Siskin 2, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Higher temperatures and significant cloud cover are expected tomorrow. Winds will be streaming from the SE all day, hopefully bringing us another fun day of March counting. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/22/26 2:43 pm From: 'BCO gal' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Last CFO Speaker Series of the Season - Birds in the Digital Age: Harnessing Innovation for Conservation (Thurs., 3/26)
Colorado Field Ornithologists is hosting Dr. Rob Blenk, assistant professor
of wetland and waterfowl ecology at Cal Poly in Humboldt, Calif., for a
free, live-only webinar. His topic is "Birds in the Digital Age: Harnessing
Innovation for Conservation."
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Date: 3/22/26 12:26 pm From: Kit Seeborg <kit...> Subject: [cobirds] Reminder, March 24: Falcons…Streamlined for Speed with Perry Conway
Hi everyone,
Be sure to join us this Tuesday, March 24, as Boulder County Audubon
Society presents falcon expert and conservation educator Perry Conway.
Perry's presentation will concentrate on the six falcon species found in
North America, with details on their natural history and evolution
supported by stunning photographs to accompany his stories.
--
*Kit Seeborg*
Communication and Outreach Volunteer
Boulder County Audubon Society <http://www.boulderaudubon.org> Boulder, Colorado
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers: Laura Farnsworth
Visitors: 14 visitors. We had our first DFO field trip of the season visit this morning! They enjoyed watching both local and migrant raptors on the ridge. Thank you to Ajit and Liza Antony for leading the trip.
Thank you also to Karolyn Chan for volunteering today.
Weather: The heat wave continued today with record high temperatures in the mid to high 80s F. Winds were light, starting from the west in the first hour before shifting east and southeast for most of the day. Cloud cover was variable - in the morning the sky was mostly covered in thin cloud cover, which disappeared during the midday before returning in the late afternoon.
Raptor Observations: The raptors were active as soon as the count started. We had a string of Red-tailed Hawks in the morning, already quite high, and a few American Kestrels. Throughout the rest of the day, more RTs were seen at a spectacular height, barely visible against the sparse cloud cover. It was amazing watching how efficiently these birds could utilize lift today!
An afternoon highlight was our second Turkey Vulture flying right overhead, then thermal hopping north. Even in the late afternoon, RTs could still be seen soaring overhead and over the ridges, with one final migrant in the last hour of the count.
Raven activity seemed higher than usual, and they reached heights that rivaled the RTs. We saw our first Tree Swallows at the ridge as well, and a group of 6 American White Pelicans.
Non-raptor Observations: American White Pelican 6, Northern Flicker 1, Common Raven 9, Tree Swallow 3, American Bushtit 2, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 1, House Finch 2, Dark-eyed Junco 1, Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 1, Spotted Towhee 1, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: A gradual drop observed in barometric pressure throughout the day today gives hope for a cold front moving through tonight! Temperatures are expected to drop to the 50s through mid 60s F, with winds light and variable. Cloud cover is predicted to be light and vary from mostly sunny to partly cloudy. Trails remain dry. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/21/26 11:58 am From: John Rawinski <johnrawinski0...> Subject: [cobirds] Going Going Gone
The last two days had me doing yard work at my home. And I am just beneath the NW flight line of the cranes. Hundreds and hundreds of cranes left the Valley in the last few days. A bike trip at the refuge at mid day today showed very few on their loafing areas. So it seems like the show is over until next fall.
John Rawinski Monte Vista, CO
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 9 visitors. Late in the afternoon, a group of hikers from Germany admired the view from the ridge and were interested in what birds we had seen.
Thank you to Mike and Karen Fernandez, Leslie Dixon, and Ric Olson for their help today!
Weather: Happy first day of spring! We had another day of record high heat with temperatures already in the low 70s F by the time the count started, approaching the mid 80s F by afternoon. Few to no clouds were present throughout the day. Overall, winds were calm with a light west wind in the morning that became more variable in direction as the day went on.
Raptor Observations: We had an exciting start to the day - the local RTs were already up by the time the count began. Our first migrant was an adult intermediate Harlan's RT on the west side, heading due south. About a half hour later, another adult intermediate Harlan's RT streamed low overhead. Quite odd! We also had two AKs in the morning - one was a classic near eye-level view, but the other was quite high.
During the midday, few birds were seen, and even the local songbirds were quiet. A GE was the only migrant, initially starting low out front before gaining incredible height very rapidly - a theme for the rest of the day. After the end of this midday lull, we had a stream of migrant RTs. While the first two went due north, the remaining three all took the same path northeast, soaring from thermal to thermal.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 30, goose sp. 85, Northern Flicker 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 6, Black-capped Chickadee 1, American Bushtit 4, White-breasted Nuthatch 1, Mountain Bluebird 15, Western Bluebird 5, American Robin 1, House Finch 2, Pine Siskin 2, Dark-eyed Junco 2, Spotted Towhee 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, expect sunny skies and record high temperature, possibly up to 90F. Light west and southwest winds are forecasted, with moderate gusts. Bring extra water, and take precautions in the high heat and sun. Trails are dry.
We are excited to have a field trip through DFO visit tomorrow! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/20/26 12:19 pm From: Audrey Hicks <audreyjhicks...> Subject: [cobirds] Speaker Event: Clark's Nutcrackers and their Critical Role as Seed Dispersers
Hello birders,
We’re excited to invite you to join Denver Audubon at Lakewood Library
<https://maps.app.goo.gl/fXccYoUpss7NRk969> next Thursday, March 26 for an
evening with Dr. Diana Tomback.
Dr. Diana Tomback of the University of Colorado Denver has spent decades
studying Clark’s Nutcrackers and their indispensable role in conifer
regeneration. Since the 1970s, her groundbreaking research has revealed how
these birds are not just forest inhabitants—but forest makers. Join us to
explore this extraordinary partnership between bird and pine, and discover
how seed dispersal, memory, climate pressures, and forest decline are
tightly intertwined in a high-stakes ecological story.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: It was a slow day in the visitor department with only 3 people that came and interacted with the Hawk Watch, including 2 from Maryland.
Thank you to Cayce and Chris Gulbransen, and Ryan Gannon for volunteering with us today!
Weather: We are back to the hot spring weather! Temperatures got up to 80 F with essentially no cloud cover today. Winds were a bit stronger than we expected today coming from the W again. Luckily, the winds helped cool us down a bit. Humidity was low today and we definitely felt it in the dry heat.
Raptor Observations: Migration has been slowly picking up but is definitely a bit slower than the last few March counts so far. Today was slower than the last few days but we had a nice little push of American Kestrels in the second half of the day. The highlight of the day was a dark-morph Harlan's Red-tailed Hawk that came close by on the E side of the ridge in the afternoon. We also had a dark-morph Ferruginous Hawk fly pretty far over Green Mountain. Yay dark-morph birds!
The Mountain Bluebird movement continues strongly with our highest day this season of 236 moving N. They continue to come in flocks of 3-40+ right along the hogback. We also had a few good sized flocks of geese move through the area today. Raptor migration may be a bit slow but we always something to look at.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 17, goose sp. 101, White-throated Swift 2, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Common Raven 3, Black-capped Chickadee 2, American Bushtit 2, Mountain Bluebird 236, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 1, Pine Siskin 2, Dark-eyed Junco 1, Spotted Towhee 2
Predictions: Tomorrow will be another hot day with minimal cloud cover. Winds continue to come from the W tomorrow. If you are planning on coming up to the ridge please bring more food and water than you expect to need. The heat and low humidity is no joke! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/19/26 9:27 am From: Charles Hundertmark <chundertmark8...> Subject: [cobirds] Breeding Bird Surveys
In the fall 2025 "President's Message" in C*olorado Birds*, I reported that the program that houses the USGS Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) was threatened with massive cuts. Protests to the cuts lodged by birders and others resulted in a reduction of those cuts allowing the BBS program to continue. Thanks to those of you who spoke out. This month David Suddjian, who coordinates the BBS program in Colorado is reaching out for volunteers to cover routes in the state that do not have a counter. I urge birders to consider adopting one or more BBS routes. BBS routes are a great way to apply your birding skills and build your knowledge of Colorado birds. Last year, I adopted to 3 BBS routes, and I plan to conduct those counts again this year.
Chuck Hundertmark Lafayette, CO
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Date: 3/19/26 7:08 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] DFO Presents: Scott Rashid on March 30: “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds"
*Scott Rashid presents “Blue-Mmers are back! Bluebirds and Hummingbirds:
Get ready for two of the most beloved birds in North America.” On Zoom with
DFO at 7pm on March 30.*
Come join us for DFO’s free Zoom webinar with Scott Rashid presenting on
two of the most beloved groups of North America birds, bluebirds and
hummingbirds. Bluebirds arrive in Colorado in February, and the
hummingbirds appear in April. The focus will be on Scott’s home area of the
Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park. For the bluebirds, learn
about the habitats each species prefers and where they can be found, where
they nest, and where to place nest boxes for them. Enjoy images of their
eggs, nestlings, and fledglings. Scott will also discuss the hummingbird
research he has been conducting for more than a decade. Scott will share
the amazing adaptations that only hummingbirds have, including their unique
ability to fly in any direction (including backwards!) and what their
colored throat patch is used for. See images and videos of courtship
activities, feeding, nest building, and the females feeding their young.
Learn the proper mixture of sugar and water to fill your feeders, and how
to properly care for them.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia, Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors: 12 visitors. It was a busy day for visitors at the ridge! We had two separate out of state visitors who were in town for work. Both were able to see a new life bird (SS and GE) and were very excited!
Thanks to volunteers Sharon Kelly, Karen Fernandez, Clay Gibson, Ric Olson, Kathie Moses, Janet Peters, and Sammy Korengut for their help today!
Weather: It was a windy and warm day at the ridge. The wind started as moderate from the west with strong gusts. The wind calmed around mid-afternoon before increasing again, as the temperatures rose to around 80 F.
Cloud cover started as thin wisps across most the sky - ideal hawkwatching clouds. In the early afternoon, the cloud cover vanished almost entirely.
Raptor Observations: The spring migration is starting to pick up, and we had our highest migrant raptor count of the season so far with 19 birds. Despite the winds, a burst of activity in the late morning included Sharp-shinned Hawks, a Cooper's Hawk, and Red-tailed Hawks. Many birds took an overhead line, but a few were sighted on the east as well. There was a noticeable pause in activity during midday.
It was a good day for small falcons, and we had our first Merlins of the season zoom past the ridge. In the afternoon, we counted 5 American Kestrels, mostly at eye level on the west side - an exciting preview of things to come.
We also had many migrating Mountain Bluebirds, with our highest total for the season so far.
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Dove 2, Northern Flicker 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 7, Black-capped Chickadee 1, European Starling 2, Mountain Bluebird 134, Western Bluebird 3, Townsend's Solitaire 1, thrush sp. 7, House Finch 1, Pine Siskin 1
Predictions: Tomorrow, near record high temperatures and sunny skies are predicted with moderate winds from the southwest. Bring sunscreen and lots of water. Trails are dry. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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[image: Beige Minimalist Stay Tuned Coming Soon Instagram Post (Facebook
Post (Square)).png]Many describe the sagebrush steppe as “drive-through
country,” a “barren wasteland,” or the “sagebrush sea.” These labels belie
the complexity and fascinating ecology of our North American sagebrush
habitats. This talk will challenge such misconceptions and guide us on an
immersive journey through the sagebrush sea, while showcasing some of the
behaviors and natural history of lesser known and appreciated species of
birds and a charismatic “mini mammal.” The presentation also will highlight
the impacts of ongoing human-induced habitat changes in the sagebrush
steppe and describe a case study demonstrating how rigorous and longer term
scientific investigation can illuminate practical strategies for addressing
species' declines amidst modern land use pressures.
Dr. Anna Chalfoun is a research ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey
and serves as the Assistant Unit Leader for Wildlife at the Wyoming
Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. She is an associate professor
at the University of Wyoming and a Fellow and Council Member of the
American Ornithological Society and a recipient of the prestigious
Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.
Chalfoun lab's research program works to understand wildlife-habitat
relationships, and particularly why animals choose the habitats that they
do in a changing world. Projects span diverse taxa including birds, small
mammals and amphibians, and habitat types, with a focus on sagebrush
steppe. Most projects are developed in collaboration with state and federal
partners to address real-world conservation challenges..
Join us on March 19th for this informative program that is free and open to
the public - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87938088938 <https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87938088938?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSGh4T0JGTVBNYkJPUTVreHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7Pt0ByMSCbGdC9XoODMSLTHXiKYkcD3VkzJEBmDkeIokEJpbbySGTJ8msIBg_aem_71_eBBPP_t8LWA_7BpZeVw>
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Date: 3/17/26 8:39 pm From: Anne Price <raptoresse...> Subject: [cobirds] FOS Turkey Vulture, Jefferson County
Rocking its way north between Lowell and Federal this morning, as I headed eastbound on Bowles around 10:00 a.m.
Hooray!
~Anne Price Littleton, JeffCo
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors: 6 visitors stopped by the ridge today to look for birds, including one visitor celebrating a birthday! We had multiple visitors that came up to the Hawk Watch for their first time after hearing about it through DFO or eBird. Yay!
Weather: Today was warmer than it has been the last few days but the winds continue! Within an hour of the count starting winds picked up from the W. Winds stayed strong for most of the morning, took a break in the afternoon, and picked back up at the end of the day causing the count to be ended early.
Raptor Observations: West winds typically bring little to no migration activity but today was a nice exception. Birds moved along the E lines over Green Mountain predominantly, with the common W lines being empty. Many birds stayed low in flight to presumably avoid the winds. Highlights of the day include a picture perfect Harlan's Red-tailed Hawk that came low along the ridge, our first Golden Eagle migrant (finally), our first Turkey Vulture of the season, and our first migrating Northern Harrier! While we didn't break into the 20s+ yet for migrants, we had some great diversity today.
Local Red-tailed Hawks, Golden Eagles, and Bald Eagles could be seen almost constantly using the wind to hunt and perform courtship displays.
Common Ravens were also up moving almost constantly all day.
Non-raptor Observations: Say's Phoebe 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Common Raven 5, Black-capped Chickadee 2, American Bushtit 5, Mountain Bluebird 4, Western Bluebird 4, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 24, Dark-eyed Junco 1, Spotted Towhee 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Temperatures continue to rise tomorrow and winds will hopefully relax a bit. Maybe tomorrow will be our first 20+ bird day? ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/17/26 5:54 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] North American Breeding Bird Survey -- Adopt a survey route!
*Get Involved in Colorado! Adopt a BBS survey route!*
It’s half an hour before sunrise, as you stand beside your car on a quiet
rural road. The eastern sky is lightening and birds are singing. You have
just begun your first three-minute-long point count at stop #1 of your
Breeding Bird Survey route – the first of 50 stops you will visit today.
Lark Bunting is singing, three Horned Larks are larking, Mourning Dove,
Western Meadowlarks, a pair of Western Kingbirds, and there’s a Say’s
Phoebe calling near that farmhouse. It is going to be another fun survey!
Thus begins one person’s volunteer effort for the *North American Breeding
Bird Survey (BBS)*. The BBS is a long-term, large-scale, international
avian monitoring program initiated in 1966 to track the status and trends
of North American bird populations. Each year from late May to early July
skilled birders collect bird population data along roadside survey routes.
Each survey route is 24.5 miles long with stops situated 0.5-mile apart. At
each stop, a 3-minute point count is conducted and every bird seen or heard
within a 0.25-mile radius or heard is recorded. Routes are surveyed just
once each season, following the same roads and making the same stops each
year. Over 4100 survey routes in the continental U.S. and Canada provide an
index of population abundance that is used to estimate population trends
and relative abundances at various geographic scales. See what it is all
about here in this video: Ups and Downs in Colorado
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUSDQZrq-eM>
Colorado hosts 136 BBS survey routes distributed all across the state. Many
routes have faithful observers who have been covering them each year for
many years. Other routes experience a natural turnover of observers, as one
retires from the route and another birder picks it up. And some routes have
not been surveyed at all for several years. *Colorado now has 20 “vacant”
routes that need skilled volunteer observers* who can commit to adopting a
route for at least three years. (See list below)
*Requirements for participation* are: (1) access to transportation to
complete a survey, (2) good hearing and eyesight, and (3) the ability to
identify the breeding birds in the area by sight and sound. Knowledge of
bird songs and calls is extremely important, because most birds counted on
the surveys are detected by sound. A BBS survey requires about five hours
to complete, plus travel to and from the route location.
*Contact me directly at <dsuddjian...> <dsuddjian...>if you are
interested in a route **or have questions. *Route requests made via the BBS
webpage may not reach me. Thanks!
David Suddjian, Littleton
Colorado State Coordinator for the BBS
Updated Mar 6, 2026
Route # Route Name County Location
5 Briggsdale Weld, Morgan
20 Boyero Lincoln
37 Waverly Yuma
44 Bethune Kit Carson
52 Dolores Riv Dolores
55 Alamosa Conejos, Alamosa
125 San Luis Conejos, Alamosa
126 Cone Mtn Las Animas
153 Rio Grande Rs Mineral, Hinsdale
207 Amherst Phillips, Sedgwick
210 Thomasville Eagle, Pitkin
214 Kirk Kit Carson
220 Haswell Bent, Kiowa
307 Julesburg Sedgwick, Logan
314 Burlington Kit Carson, Yuma
321 Sheridan Lake Kiowa, Prowers
322 Mcphee Res. Dolores Montezuma
324 South Fork Rio Grande
372 Haycamp Mesa Montezuma
373 Lizard Head Pass San Miguel, Dolores
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Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers: Audrey Anderson, Soren Zappia
Visitors: We interacted with 8 visitors today, including one woman who was apart of a hiking group that noticed the Hawk Watch this morning and came back this afternoon.
We were excited to have Audrey Anderson, one of last year's counters, back on the ridge with us today! Thanks to Mike Serruto for volunteering today for his weekly Monday shift.
Weather: The ridge was a winter wonderland this morning with a few inches of snow on the trail and all of the trees. Winds were very calm from the SE and the sun was shining. The second half of the day saw stronger winds shifting to the W/NW. With the strong winds came cooler temperatures, making it a brisk afternoon and early evening.
Raptor Observations: The first few hours of the day were virtually still but beautiful. In the early afternoon we started to see low and close Red-tailed Hawks coming overhead/east of us and catching the same thermal before continuing north. Migrants were also seen over Green Mountain, including the one Ferruginous Hawk of the day. Most of our migrants came in a short span before the winds picked up.
We saw our FOY Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and a few more White-throated Swifts again today. There was also a stronger than normal American Crow presence today.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swift 2, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, American Crow 6, Common Raven 3, Black-capped Chickadee 2, American Bushtit 9, Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 5, House Finch 3, Pine Siskin 10, Dark-eyed Junco 2, Spotted Towhee 2, Western Meadowlark 1
Predictions: Temperatures continue to rise tomorrow as we approach the hot days expected at the end of the week. Winds might get up to 30 mph tomorrow afternoon out of the W. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at: www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk, Swainson's hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier, Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers from March through early May.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge. (Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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On Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 11:43:20 AM UTC-6 linda purcell wrote:
> Hi there! we observed banded Canada Goose WD39 today in Barnum Park.
> i suspect the band number, location, date can be reported to an agency,
> however I do want to report to the correct agency.
> Linda Purcell
> Denver, CO
>
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Date: 3/16/26 7:56 am From: Becca Safran <becca.safran...> Subject: [cobirds] barn swallows in your barn, shed, garage, porch?
Greetings!
Thought its cold and snowy this morning, the barn swallows will soon be here setting up their breeding sites.
We are interested in collaborating with home owners who host barn swallows during their breeding season. We are especially looking for breeding sites in the foothills (Gold and Lee Hill, Four Mile and Sunshine Canyons) and near Louisville, Erie, and Lafayette but are happy to hear about any and all nesting sites!
If you are amenable to the presence of our research team's presence at times that are convenient to you throughout late spring and summer, please reach out!
I have been studying barn swallows around the world for nearly three decades. This summer, we are trying to learn more about why their populations are declining. To read more about our group, go here: https://www.safran-lab.com/
If you have hosting barn swallows (and their nests) on your property and are interested in joining our study, please write to <rebecca.safran...>
thanks so much!
Becca and team
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Date: 3/15/26 7:37 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: RE: [cobirds] wd 39
Linda,
By chance was that bird squeaky in flight? I bet the next one the organization banded (WD40) was much quieter.
Sorry.
Dave Leatherman
Fort Collins
From: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> On Behalf Of linda purcell
Sent: Sunday, March 15, 2026 11:43 AM
To: Colorado Birds <cobirds...>
Subject: [cobirds] wd 39
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 12:00:00
Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers: Marina Prado-Echeagaray
Visitors:
Visitors stayed home today- zero seen.
Weather:
It was a snowy and cold day on the ridge today with very limited visibility
to start with. Precipitation wasn't originally predicted to linger for the
day but alas, the predictions were wrong. The count was ended early at 1300
MST due to low visibility and high precipitation.
Raptor Observations:
One lone male American Kestrel was seen hovering and perched on a nearby
phone line. Zero migrants were seen today.
We had a nice variety of Dark-eyed Juncos today with Oregon, Slate-colored,
Gray-headed, and Pink-sided all seen! Mountain Bluebirds also added some
color to the otherwise white day.
Predictions:
Temperatures will pick up back up a bit tomorrow to a nice mild before we
reach the heat that's expected at the end of the week. Winds are predicted
to be a bit all over the place at a moderate breeze. The trail will likely
be muddy!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk,
Swainson’s hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk.
Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier,
Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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On Sun, Mar 15, 2026, 11:43 AM linda purcell <linpurcellzz...> wrote:
> Hi there! we observed banded Canada Goose WD39 today in Barnum Park. > i suspect the band number, location, date can be reported to an agency, > however I do want to report to the correct agency. > Linda Purcell > Denver, CO > > -- > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > For more options, visit this group at > http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds > * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include > bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate. > * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<7f7cd097-98bd-4adc-99f8-ad7274c240f8n...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<7f7cd097-98bd-4adc-99f8-ad7274c240f8n...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . >
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Date: 3/15/26 10:43 am From: linda purcell <linpurcellzz...> Subject: [cobirds] wd 39
Hi there! we observed banded Canada Goose WD39 today in Barnum Park. i suspect the band number, location, date can be reported to an agency, however I do want to report to the correct agency. Linda Purcell Denver, CO
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 12:15:00
Total observation time: 3.22 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers: Laura Farnsworth
Visitors:
It was a slow morning for visitors, but we had a wonderful group of
volunteers - thank you to Karolyn Chan, Mikele Painter, and Mike Ames for
their help today.
Weather:
The day started sunny and with light air, with cloud cover around half the
sky for the duration of the count. Temperatures were moderate to warm.
Wind speed increased throughout the last hour, going from a moderate breeze
to a strong breeze, before the count was ended at 12:13 PM MST due to high
wind (gusting over 40 MPH).
Raptor Observations:
Raptors were active in the morning, with two migrant RTs and a BE, and lots
of local birds up in the first two hours of the count.
Once the winds picked up, activity died down but a few locals were still
active. Two Cooper's Hawks flew in overhead from the north - one performed
an aerial display, and we saw its flared white undertail coverts. A few
migrant groups of passerines were observed as well, including a flock of
Horned Larks.
The final migrant of the day was a dark morph calurus RT that fought
against the wind to gain height. Afterwards, few birds were observed before
the count was cancelled due to wind.
Non-raptor Observations:
Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 7, Horned Lark
14, Mountain Bluebird 26, American Robin 4, Spotted Towhee 1
Predictions:
Tomorrow, expect mixed precipitation overnight, with potential scattered
snow showers in the morning through early afternoon. Temperatures are
predicted to drop drastically to below freezing with moderate winds from
the north. Bring warm layers and prepare for icy and wet trails. We hope to
get a full count day in if conditions allow.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk,
Swainson’s hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk.
Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier,
Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/13/26 10:12 pm From: 'Buzz' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
Interesting. Logical. Occam's Razor
Thanks David.
Sent from the all new Aol app for iOS
Buzz Schaumberg
On Friday, March 13, 2026, 9:17 PM, DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> wrote:
My bet would be the starling died in its sleep of who-knows-what, clamped on the wire as birds do and then something like a hawk took a fly-by swipe.
I have seen a number of birds hanging from wires like this. Humans die in their sleep. Why not birds?
Dave LeathermanFort Collins
Get Outlook for iOSFrom: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> on behalf of Ajit Antony <aiantony521...>
Sent: Friday, March 13, 2026 8:05:58 PM
To: Preston Sowell <preston.sowell...>
Cc: COBIRDS <cobirds...>
Subject: Re: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws You may be on the right track Preston. The red stuff on the back of its head could be blood from a pellet shot.
I found this on the internet:Automatic Perching Reflex: Birds have a "tendon locking mechanism." When they land, the weight of their body causes tendons in their legs to pull their toes shut around the perch. This grip is passive and automatic, meaning if a bird dies suddenly while perching (e.g., from a heart attack or a lightning strike), its feet may remain locked onto the wire even after death.External Trauma: Recent studies have found that a significant number of birds found dead near power lines-up to 66% in some areas--were actually victims of illegal shooting rather than electrical accidents. A bird shot while perching might have its feet "lock" onto the wire as it expires, leaving it hanging.
I also found a normal identical image to the one I posted except for what looked like blood on the back of its head, on a Facebook post by someone from Weld county who has seen the same bird with its talons locked on a wire for the past 3 years!
Starling Control Measures: Weld County, Colorado, has seen incidents involving the use of USDA-approved pesticides (such as DRC-1339) to manage starling populations at feedlots. While these chemicals are designed to kill, the birds may be found days later and sometimes die on-site, potentially leading to unusual, isolated scenes.
To Greg:My query to Google AI was not a photograph, it was a description of a "dead starling hanging by its talons from a wire."So it would not have considered the possibility of blood on the back of its head when the possibility of avian flu was suggested.
Ajit AntonyCentral Park, Denver
On Fri, Mar 13, 2026, 11:56 AM Preston Sowell <preston.sowell...> wrote:
This could also be from a kid with a pellet gun. I witnessed this happen with a Starling when I was a boy.
Preston
On Thu, Mar 12, 2026 at 7:02 PM aiantony <aiantony...> wrote:
We were leading a DFO trip to the raptor alley west of DIA, when we came upon a curious sight. We saw a blob hanging from a wire, and when we looked carefully with binoculars it was a bird hanging by its locked claws!
It seems to be a starling with its bright yellow pointed bill facing right. Is that clotted blood at the back of its head?
We've never seen such a thing, and wondered how it had died.
It couldn't have been electrocuted, as it would have needed to touch another wire or the ground.
If it had been predated upon by a raptor, say, it would have been taken away to be eaten on a perch. There was no other wire close by.
Has anyone seen anything like this and does anyone have any reasonable explanation for this.
Google AI suggested avian ‘flu as a possibility.
Ajit and Liza Antony
Central Park, Denver.
Sent from my Galaxy
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303-775-6920 (cell)
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors:
6 visitors. A few mountain bikers, runners, and hikers used the ridge as a
spot to rest and admire the view.
Thank you to Tom Booth for his help at the watch today!
Weather:
The ridge was moderately windy with sustained WNW winds at 4 bft for most
of the day, with gusts of 5-6 bft. Skies were near overcast with some
broken clouds low on the west. Temperatures were moderate throughout the
day.
In the mid-afternoon, the wind calmed to near 1 bft for a period of around
an hour, before returning to its original strength. The skies became
brighter in the afternoon as the sun entered thinner cloud cover.
Raptor Observations:
Overall, the WNW winds appeared to keep migrant activity slow, although the
local RTs were out hunting and often kiting into the wind, and a pair of
GEs was displaying over mount Morrison. The ratio of activity on the east
vs west side was generally higher on the east compared to prior days. Both
migrant RTs were seen following Green Mountain before gaining height and
gliding north, one in the late morning and the other in the afternoon.
In an otherwise quiet hour, a Prairie Falcon barreled past on the west just
above eye level, navigating the wind gusts with ease. A few hours later, a
Cooper's Hawk took a similar path, but struggled with the wind more than
the PR.
We also saw two White-throated Swifts, which was an early surprise, and two
weeks earlier than our first sighting last year!
Non-raptor Observations:
White-throated Swift 2, Feral Pigeon 2, Black-billed Magpie 1, American
Crow 11, Common Raven 4, American Bushtit 2, Mountain Bluebird 26, Western
Bluebird 13, Townsend's Solitaire 1, American Robin 9, House Finch 2,
Dark-eyed Junco 2, Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 1, Spotted Towhee 2
Predictions:
Tomorrow, strong winds are predicted from the W and SW, starting around
10-15 MPH but increasing to 25-35 MPH in afternoon with possible gusts over
40 MPH. Expect partly cloudy skies with cooler temperatures (50s F) in the
morning and warm temperatures in the afternoon.
We anticipate a shortened count day due to high wind in the afternoon.
Bring layers, stay hydrated, and avoid the ridge if wind speeds become
hazardous. Trails should remain dry.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk,
Swainson’s hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk.
Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier,
Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/13/26 8:17 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
My bet would be the starling died in its sleep of who-knows-what, clamped on the wire as birds do and then something like a hawk took a fly-by swipe.
I have seen a number of birds hanging from wires like this. Humans die in their sleep. Why not birds?
Dave Leatherman
Fort Collins
Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef> ________________________________
From: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> on behalf of Ajit Antony <aiantony521...>
Sent: Friday, March 13, 2026 8:05:58 PM
To: Preston Sowell <preston.sowell...>
Cc: COBIRDS <cobirds...>
Subject: Re: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
You may be on the right track Preston. The red stuff on the back of its head could be blood from a pellet shot.
I found this on the internet:
Automatic Perching Reflex: Birds have a "tendon locking mechanism." When they land, the weight of their body causes tendons in their legs to pull their toes shut around the perch. This grip is passive and automatic, meaning if a bird dies suddenly while perching (e.g., from a heart attack or a lightning strike), its feet may remain locked onto the wire even after death.
External Trauma: Recent studies have found that a significant number of birds found dead near power lines-up to 66% in some areas--were actually victims of illegal shooting rather than electrical accidents. A bird shot while perching might have its feet "lock" onto the wire as it expires, leaving it hanging.
I also found a normal identical image to the one I posted except for what looked like blood on the back of its head, on a Facebook post by someone from Weld county who has seen the same bird with its talons locked on a wire for the past 3 years!
Starling Control Measures: Weld County, Colorado, has seen incidents involving the use of USDA-approved pesticides (such as DRC-1339) to manage starling populations at feedlots. While these chemicals are designed to kill, the birds may be found days later and sometimes die on-site, potentially leading to unusual, isolated scenes.
To Greg:
My query to Google AI was not a photograph, it was a description of a "dead starling hanging by its talons from a wire."
So it would not have considered the possibility of blood on the back of its head when the possibility of avian flu was suggested.
Ajit Antony
Central Park, Denver
On Fri, Mar 13, 2026, 11:56 AM Preston Sowell <preston.sowell...><mailto:<preston.sowell...>> wrote:
This could also be from a kid with a pellet gun. I witnessed this happen with a Starling when I was a boy.
We were leading a DFO trip to the raptor alley west of DIA, when we came upon a curious sight. We saw a blob hanging from a wire, and when we looked carefully with binoculars it was a bird hanging by its locked claws!
It seems to be a starling with its bright yellow pointed bill facing right. Is that clotted blood at the back of its head?
We've never seen such a thing, and wondered how it had died.
It couldn't have been electrocuted, as it would have needed to touch another wire or the ground.
If it had been predated upon by a raptor, say, it would have been taken away to be eaten on a perch. There was no other wire close by.
Has anyone seen anything like this and does anyone have any reasonable explanation for this.
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Date: 3/13/26 7:06 pm From: Ajit Antony <aiantony521...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
You may be on the right track Preston. The red stuff on the back of its
head could be blood from a pellet shot.
I found this on the internet:
Automatic Perching Reflex: Birds have a "tendon locking mechanism." When
they land, the weight of their body causes tendons in their legs to pull
their toes shut around the perch. This grip is passive and automatic,
meaning if a bird dies suddenly while perching (e.g., from a heart attack
or a lightning strike), its feet may remain locked onto the wire even after
death.
External Trauma: Recent studies have found that a significant number of
birds found dead near power lines-up to 66% in some areas--were actually
victims of illegal shooting rather than electrical accidents. A bird shot
while perching might have its feet "lock" onto the wire as it expires,
leaving it hanging.
I also found a normal identical image to the one I posted except for what
looked like blood on the back of its head, on a Facebook post by someone
from Weld county who has seen the same bird with its talons locked on a
wire for the past 3 years!
*Starling Control Measures:* Weld County, Colorado, has seen incidents
involving the use of USDA-approved pesticides (such as DRC-1339) to manage
starling populations at feedlots. While these chemicals are designed to
kill, the birds may be found days later and sometimes die on-site,
potentially leading to unusual, isolated scenes.
To Greg:
My query to Google AI was not a photograph, it was a description of a "dead
starling hanging by its talons from a wire."
So it would not have considered the possibility of blood on the back of its
head when the possibility of avian flu was suggested.
Ajit Antony
Central Park, Denver
On Fri, Mar 13, 2026, 11:56 AM Preston Sowell <preston.sowell...>
wrote:
> This could also be from a kid with a pellet gun. I witnessed this happen
> with a Starling when I was a boy.
>
> Preston
>
> On Thu, Mar 12, 2026 at 7:02 PM aiantony <aiantony...> wrote:
>
>>
>>
>> We were leading a DFO trip to the raptor alley west of DIA, when we came
>> upon a curious sight. We saw a blob hanging from a wire, and when we looked
>> carefully with binoculars it was a bird hanging by its locked claws!
>>
>> It seems to be a starling with its bright yellow pointed bill facing
>> right. Is that clotted blood at the back of its head?
>>
>> We've never seen such a thing, and wondered how it had died.
>>
>> It couldn't have been electrocuted, as it would have needed to touch
>> another wire or the ground.
>>
>> If it had been predated upon by a raptor, say, it would have been taken
>> away to be eaten on a perch. There was no other wire close by.
>>
>> Has anyone seen anything like this and does anyone have any reasonable
>> explanation for this.
>>
>> Google AI suggested avian ‘flu as a possibility.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Ajit and Liza Antony
>>
>> Central Park, Denver.
>>
>> Sent from my Galaxy
>>
>> --
>> --
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>> "Colorado Birds" group.
>> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...>
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>> http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds >> * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city.
>> Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate.
>> * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ >> ---
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>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<69b3623d.050a0220.123d8.0968SMTPIN_ADDED_MISSING...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<69b3623d.050a0220.123d8.0968SMTPIN_ADDED_MISSING...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
>
>
> --
> Preston Sowell
> 303-775-6920 (cell)
>
>
>
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> communication is prohibited.
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We had an adult female YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER come into our suet feeders briefly earlier this afternoon (Fri. 13 Mar'26) in the Athmar Park neighborhood near Huston Park (SW Denver Co.). No sign of hybridization with a Red-naped at all, so a fun new yard bird! She hasn't returned since the first sighting, but will keep the group posted if she turns out to be a repeat customer. If by chance you would still like to check the area, please feel free to get ahold of me separately for more details.
Good Birding,
Doug
Denver
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Date: 3/13/26 10:56 am From: Preston Sowell <preston.sowell...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
This could also be from a kid with a pellet gun. I witnessed this happen
with a Starling when I was a boy.
Preston
On Thu, Mar 12, 2026 at 7:02 PM aiantony <aiantony...> wrote:
>
>
> We were leading a DFO trip to the raptor alley west of DIA, when we came
> upon a curious sight. We saw a blob hanging from a wire, and when we looked
> carefully with binoculars it was a bird hanging by its locked claws!
>
> It seems to be a starling with its bright yellow pointed bill facing
> right. Is that clotted blood at the back of its head?
>
> We've never seen such a thing, and wondered how it had died.
>
> It couldn't have been electrocuted, as it would have needed to touch
> another wire or the ground.
>
> If it had been predated upon by a raptor, say, it would have been taken
> away to be eaten on a perch. There was no other wire close by.
>
> Has anyone seen anything like this and does anyone have any reasonable
> explanation for this.
>
> Google AI suggested avian ‘flu as a possibility.
>
>
>
>
> Ajit and Liza Antony
>
> Central Park, Denver.
>
> Sent from my Galaxy
>
> --
> --
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> "Colorado Birds" group.
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>
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Preston Sowell
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Date: 3/13/26 9:57 am From: '<greg.le......>' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
Some falcons, peregrines included, attack by hitting prey in the back of
the head with balled up talons; a blunt force trauma death. Birds' feet
clasp when in a relaxed position, so a sudden death with feet still clasped
afterwards makes sense.
Despite the marvels of AI, it's quite often not logical. I've read of no
HPAI (avian influenza) symptoms that include bleeding from the skull, so
I'm not sure why it would suggest that.
Greg Levandoski
Longmont, CO
On Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 7:02:59 PM UTC-6 aiantony wrote:
>
>
> We were leading a DFO trip to the raptor alley west of DIA, when we came
> upon a curious sight. We saw a blob hanging from a wire, and when we looked
> carefully with binoculars it was a bird hanging by its locked claws!
>
> It seems to be a starling with its bright yellow pointed bill facing
> right. Is that clotted blood at the back of its head?
>
> We've never seen such a thing, and wondered how it had died.
>
> It couldn't have been electrocuted, as it would have needed to touch
> another wire or the ground.
>
> If it had been predated upon by a raptor, say, it would have been taken
> away to be eaten on a perch. There was no other wire close by.
>
> Has anyone seen anything like this and does anyone have any reasonable
> explanation for this.
>
> Google AI suggested avian ‘flu as a possibility.
>
>
>
>
> Ajit and Liza Antony
>
> Central Park, Denver.
>
> Sent from my Galaxy
>
>
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Date: 3/12/26 8:00 pm From: David <dlllaiberte1951...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Another odd gull
I believe it is a Ring-billed Gull - the yellow legs & yellow iris are key
id markings! Looks like the Gull is in winter plumage with some dusky
marking about the head.
On Friday, March 6, 2026 at 12:12:04 PM UTC-7 David Hyde wrote:
> Thank you for confirmation as American Herring gull. I learn something new
> about birds all the time. And here's another gull from Lake McIntosh for
> your consideration... it looks like a Ring-billed gull, but has bright
> yellow legs and a grey face mask!
>
> [image: OddGull-1.JPG]
>
>
> On Fri, Mar 6, 2026 at 6:55 AM David Suddjian <dsud......> wrote:
>
>> Many winter Am. Herring Gulls also have blackish on the bill near the red
>> spot. It varies among individuals. This is a Herring.
>>
>> David Suddjian
>> Littleton, CO
>>
>> On Thu, Mar 5, 2026 at 11:22 PM David Hyde <davidh......> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi CObirders -- At Lake McIntosh in Longmont in February I saw this
>>> gull. I note that it has the bill pattern of a California gull but the pink
>>> legs, pale eye and large size of a Herring gull. It looks more like a
>>> Herring gull except for the bill pattern which is distinctly that of a
>>> California gull. Do you all think this is just a Herring gull or a cross
>>> between the two (I got lost online trying to sort this out...). Any
>>> guidance appreciated. I have more photos but am allowed to send only one.
>>> Cheers!
>>>
>>> [image: CaliforniaGull-3a.JPG]
>>>
>>>
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>>>
>>
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Date: 3/12/26 6:03 pm From: aiantony <aiantony...> Subject: [cobirds] A dead starling hanging from an electrical wire by its claws
We were leading a DFO trip to the raptor alley west of DIA, when we came upon a curious sight. We saw a blob hanging from a wire, and when we looked carefully with binoculars it was a bird hanging by its locked claws!It seems to be a starling with its bright yellow pointed bill facing right. Is that clotted blood at the back of its head?We've never seen such a thing, and wondered how it had died. It couldn't have been electrocuted, as it would have needed to touch another wire or the ground. If it had been predated upon by a raptor, say, it would have been taken away to be eaten on a perch. There was no other wire close by.Has anyone seen anything like this and does anyone have any reasonable explanation for this. Google AI suggested avian ‘flu as a possibility. Ajit and Liza AntonyCentral Park, Denver.Sent from my Galaxy
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley, Soren Zappia
Observers:
Visitors:
4 visitors. It was fairly slow for visitors, but a large group of mountain
bikers enjoyed a ride at the ridge.
Thank you to Karen and Michael Fernandez, Sharon Kelly, Ric Olson, and
Sammy Korengut for all their help today!
Weather:
Temperatures were cold, with moderate winds from the E and SE. The sky
started as mostly cloudy, but cloud cover dropped rapidly in the first few
hours of the morning, and we had blue skies with a few scattered clouds for
the remainder of the day.
Raptor Observations:
Today was our most active day for raptor migration of the season so far. In
the morning, we counted a slow but steady rate of a few birds per hour -
Red-tailed Hawks and one young Bald Eagle. Activity slowed for a bit
mid-day, but then suddenly we had a burst of activity with 4 RTs, followed
by a close Ferruginous Hawk.
Our first migrant Prairie Falcon of the season was seen near eye-level
barreling down the east side before soaring above the ridge, giving us
excellent views. A distant male American Kestrel was seen on the west, the
sun illuminating his beautiful red tail.
Passerines were fairly quiet today, but we saw our first Western Bluebirds
of the year, and a flock of Mountain Bluebirds landed on the ridge in the
late afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations:
Mourning Dove 2, Black-billed Magpie 1, Common Raven 5, American Bushtit 2,
Mountain Bluebird 23, Western Bluebird 13, Townsend's Solitaire 2, American
Robin 4, Pine Siskin 2
Predictions:
A high wind watch is in effect tomorrow, with strong winds from the west
predicted to increase throughout the day to 20-30 MPH with possible gusts
around 45 MPH. Expect sun and moderate temperatures in the 50s to low 60s
F. The trail should be dry or mostly dry.
We hope to get a full count day as long as winds are not too intense but
expect that the strong west winds may slow migration.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk,
Swainson’s hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk.
Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier,
Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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This month’s BCAS program will feature falcon expert and conservation
educator Perry Conway. Perry’s presentation will concentrate on the six
falcon species found in North America, with details on their natural
history and evolution supported by stunning photographs to accompany his
stories. Perry will provide details of his experiences with captive
raptors, as well as aspects of training the birds for falconry and school
presentations. He will give an intimate view into the birds’ behavior,
habitat needs, and natural history.
Did you know…
Peregrine falcons have recovered strongly in Colorado after severe declines
in the mid-1900s caused by pesticides like DDT. In Boulder County’s
foothills, these cliff-nesting raptors are considered a successful
conservation comeback. In fact, several Boulder County open space and
climbing areas, including parts of the Flatirons and Boulder Canyon, are
closed from Feb. 1 through July 31, 2026, to protect nesting peregrine
falcons and raptors.
Is the Peregrine Falcon really the fastest bird on earth?
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*Kit Seeborg*
Communication and Outreach Volunteer
Boulder County Audubon Society <http://www.boulderaudubon.org> Boulder, Colorado
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors:
We had a few more visitors today than yesterday with a handful of them
stopping to ask questions and talk migration for 10+ minutes. We were able
to use our brand new education materials (yahoo!) to help them understand
raptor migration a bit better.
Thanks to Barbara Retzlaff and Chip Dawes for their help and company on the
ridge today.
Weather:
The pleasant spring days continue with partly cloudy conditions and warm
temperatures all day. Winds were light in the morning from the E and
shifted W/NW in the afternoon getting up to moderate speeds by the end of
the day. A noticeable haze settled into the area by the end of the day.
Raptor Observations:
Today was a very nice day with local and migrant birds coming right
overhead. The morning started out a bit slow but birds picked up a bit
eventually. We had our first Sharp-shinned Hawk of the year shoot directly
across the ridge at eye level, as well as an eye level Cooper's hawk just E
of the ridge. Red-tailed Hawks continue to slowly move through the site.
The local Red-tailed Hawk pair could be seen for most of the day,
especially in the high winds when they could be seen kiting along the
ridge. Local Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, and Cooper's Hawks were also seen.
One adult Golden Eagle came directly overhead in the afternoon. The
Cooper's Hawks could be seen performing their aerial flights in which they
look owl-like.
We had another nice group of Sandhill Cranes come high but overhead in the
late afternoon, their preferred time at this site. A surprise Steller's Jay
was heard calling in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations:
Canada Goose 25, Sandhill Crane 7, Northern Flicker 1, Steller's Jay 1,
Black-billed Magpie 1, American Crow 5, Common Raven 5, Black-capped
Chickadee 1, American Bushtit 4, Mountain Bluebird 3, Townsend's Solitaire
1, American Robin 1, House Finch 1, Dark-eyed Junco 2, Spotted Towhee 2
Predictions:
Temperatures drop a bit tomorrow and so does cloud cover. Winds should be
light and from the E/SE, hopefully bringing a few more migrants.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk,
Swainson’s hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk.
Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier,
Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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Date: 3/10/26 7:02 am From: 'elena' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Rose breasted grosbeak Niwot
Cobirders, yesterday mid morning I saw this female grosbeak in a juniper tree in my yard in Niwot. She stayed in the tree for about 15 minutes while I stayed in my car to not flush her before flying away. I have several photos from the iPhone, here is one. The feeders nearby were filled, and I was around the yard for much of the day but she did not return. This was a first yard bird (joining evening and black headed grosbeaks) and the earliest rose breasted grosbeak for me here. If she returns, birders are welcome to come by.
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Sent from my iPhone
Elena Holly Klaver
Federally Certified Court Interpreter
Conference Interpreter
English <> Spanish
303 475 5189
Member: American Translators Association
Colorado Translators Association
Pronouns: she, her, hers
I acknowledge that I live in the territory of Hinóno’éí (Arapaho), Cheyenne and Ute Nations, according to the 1851 Treaty of Fort Laramie, and that Colorado’s Front Range is home to many Native peoples. Reconozco que vivo en el territorio de las naciones Hinóno’éí (Arapaho), Cheyenne y Ute, según el Tratado de Fort Laramie en 1851, y que el estado de Colorado al esté de las Montañas Rocosas es territorio de muchos pueblos indígenas.
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Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Emma Riley
Observers:
Visitors:
It was a slow day at the site with 6 visitors stopping by.
Thank you to Clay Gibson, Ric Olson, Mike Serruto, and Bill Young for their
help on the ridge today.
Weather:
Today was hot with scattered clouds and a nice breeze to cool us off. Winds
were from the SE in the morning before switching to the W/NW and picking up
a bit in the afternoon. Cloud cover never got very heavy, but still aided
in spotting a few birds.
Raptor Observations:
We had another classic early March day with slow migratory activity and
high local activity. Migrants were seen in the morning coming nice and low
overhead and west of us. The highlight of the day was a low overhead adult
Ferruginous Hawk! This bird came so close we could see the adult red
feathered tarsi naked eye. We also had a good look at a dark-morph
Red-tailed Hawk (calarus) that was moving with a mission along the W ridge.
A few local Red-tailed Hawk pairs could be seen scattered across the sky,
with the most obvious being the pair that took up the nest just W of the
site. One of the two birds was seen with three different prey items today,
including a snake! We watched this bird bring the prey to the nest that was
used last year. Very exciting to have them back this year. We also saw the
local Golden Eagle performing incredible aerial displays, and a nice
dark-morph Red-tailed Hawk coming along the ridge before heading SW.
Passerine activity was a bit low today.
Non-raptor Observations:
Canada Goose 12, Northern Flicker 1, Woodhouse's Scrub Jay 1, Black-billed
Magpie 1, Common Raven 5, American Bushtit 4, Mountain Bluebird 4,
Townsend's Solitaire 3, American Robin 1, Spotted Towhee 2
Predictions:
Tomorrow's conditions are predicted to be similar to today. High
temperatures (high 60s F), scattered clouds, and light winds. Winds are
once again expected to shift W in the afternoon, potentially causing
migration to slow/halt in the afternoon.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Official Counter of the day shown above (<dinoridgehw...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Denver Field Ornithologists information may be found at:
www.dinosaurridgehawkwatch.org
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawk watch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Hawk
watchers may see 17 species of migrating raptors; and it is an excellent
site to see rare dark morph buteos including Broad-winged hawk,
Swainson’s hawk, Ferruginous hawk, Rough-legged hawk and Red-tailed Hawk.
Other raptors we see include Golden and Bald Eagles, Northern harrier,
Osprey, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels, Merlin, and Turkey Vultures. American Goshawk is
uncommon but also counted each season. Non-raptor species include Rock
Wren, Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, and
American White Pelican. Birders of any skill level are always welcome. The
hawk watch at Dinosaur Ridge is staffed by Hawk Counter(s) and volunteers
from March through early May.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow hawk watch signs
from the southwest end of the parking lot to the hawk watch site. The hike
starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a
trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the
ridge, turn left, and walk to the flat area at the crest of the ridge.
(Distance: 0.56 miles, Elevation gain: 259 feet)
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