Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Joe Francis, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski, Kent Raymond, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Sally O'Byrne, Samir Saadeh
Visitors: 18
Weather: Overcast becoming partly sunny. Moderate northeasterly winds. A bit chilly in the morning!
Raptor Observations: A steady, moderate flight throughout the day. A great variety of raptors with all species that are expected on this date. The flight was a mix of low and high altitude, but we had some nice looks at both resident and migrating raptors.
Seven Ospreys brought the season total to a tie with the entire 2022 season as the highest total since 2021. Excellent Bald Eagle activity with 19 migrating.
Ten harriers was the second best flight of the season. Moderate Accip flights with 38 sharpies and 12 Coops. Only 13 broad-wings, perhaps a sign that the easterly component to the wind is pushing them west of us.
A handful of red-shoulders and red-tails. A juvenile red-shoulder perched in a tree next to the hawk watch for a few minutes until a juvenile Cooper's Hawk landed nearby then chased it away.
Only the second falcon trifecta of the season with 30 kestrels, 5 Merlins (season high), and an adult peregrine. A Merlin dove close and came back up with a common green darner.
Non-raptor Observations: 86 Canada Geese, 5 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 3 Double-crested Cormorants, 300+ Blue Jays, 2 Common Ravens, 125 Cedar Waxwings, Pine Warbler, American Lady, 46 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S395619361
New species for season: Lesser Black-backed Gull
Predictions: TOMORROW: Partly to mostly cloudy. High 67F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. Overall similar to today and I would expect similar results.
FRIDAY: Mostly cloudy. High 73F. Winds NNE at 10-20mph. Similar again.
SATURDAY: Overcast with showers at times. High 64F. Winds N at 10-20mph. Good winds, but the gloominess may hold back the flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Joe Sebastiani
Visitors: 1
Weather: Rain delayed the start of the count. Remaining low overcast with moderate northeast winds. Cool and fall-like weather! Drizzle in the last half-hour became a steady rain for the hike down.
Raptor Observations: A steady flight with some nice looks as the conditions kept most migrants low. Seven each of Osprey and Bald Eagle. A moderate Accip flight with 20 sharpies and 6 Coops. A dozen Broad-winged Hawks migrated including a group of six. Falcons were steady with 11 kestrels and four Merlins.
Non-raptor Observations: 21 Canada Geese, 11 Common Mergansers, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, 6 Northern Flickers, 2 Common Ravens, 175 Cedar Waxwings, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, 36 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S395335278
Predictions: TOMORROW: Cloudy. High 67F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. Similar to today when it wasn't raining, though hopefully not as damp. I would expect a steady flow of migrants again. Chances of broad-wings is hard to predict. Large numbers are still being reported north of us but the easterly component to the wind may push them west to the mountain sites. Expect moderate migration.
THURSDAY: Partly cloudy. High 67F. Winds NE at 10-15mph. Overall similar but the sunshine may result in thermals and higher altitude flight. Expect moderate migration.
FRIDAY: Intervals of clouds and sun. High around 70F. Winds NNE at 10-20mph. Similar again, but more sun and stronger winds. Expect moderate migration. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Joe Francis, Joe Swertinski
Observers: Andy Ednie, David Brown, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Walt Blackwell
Visitors: 14
Weather: Mostly sunny becoming overcast for the afternoon. Light to moderate northeast winds that weakened in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: A light to moderate flight throughout the day, with a peak in the afternoon then a sudden drop in activity as the overcast skies got thicker. Sharp-shinned Hawks were most numerous with 27, followed by kestrels with 20. Seven each of Osprey and Cooper's Hawk. One Peregrine Falcon.
Non-raptor Observations: 77 Canada Geese, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, 6 Northern Flickers, 2 Common Ravens, American Redstart, 71 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S395047055
Predictions: TOMORROW: Light rain early then cloudy with afternoon showers. High 63F. Winds NE at 10-15mph. Expect minimal migration. Count will likely be shortened.
WEDNESDAY: Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 66F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. A favorable wind and fairly strong. Perhaps that will be enough to get some birds moving even if the sky is gloomy.
THURSDAY: Mostly cloudy. High near 65F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. Similar to Wednesday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Weather: Morning rain then remaining overcast with low cloud cover and moderate southwest winds. No count conducted.
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: The switch to rainy, gloomy weather with southerly winds prevented a raptor flight throughout the region today. However, after today the wind shifts northerly for the next week. Conditions will largely be cloudy with a few more rainy days (Tuesday and Wednesday). However, large numbers of Broad-winged Hawks moved through New England yesterday, so depending on where the wind blows them we may end up with more broad-wing flights this week.
TOMORROW: Mostly cloudy. A bit of morning sun. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 71F. Winds NE at 10-15mph. Decent conditions. Expect moderate migration. Hard to predict the chances of broad-wings. Conditions seem unfavorable for kettles, but some may be pushing through on the strong winds. However, we are still in peak time so sometimes we get surprised.
TUESDAY: A steady rain in the morning then showers. High 62F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. Chance of rain 70%. Count may be shortened. Probably little migration regardless.
WEDNESDAY: Showers in the morning then cloudy. High around 65F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. The flight will depend on how much it clears up, but likely not expecting much. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Carol Ralph, Carol Spease, Carter Chambers, Holly Merker, Ian Teaell, Jim Green, Jim Lewis, Joe Swertinski, Kevin Bronson, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass
Visitors: 32
Weather: Mostly cloudy becoming mostly sunny then overcast by the end of the count. Light winds shifted from NE to E.
Raptor Observations: Raptors were on the move early today. The spectacle of the day was the early-morning Broad-winged Hawk liftoff. Before the usual 9am start time of the count we had already had 670 Broad-winged Hawks, mostly distant to the north. As thermals built, multiple flight lines developed with some groups to the north and other groups streaming overhead. Nearly 1,200 Broad-winged Hawks were counted in the 9-10am clock time hour. Broad-winged Hawk numbers dropped drastically after that with few seen throughout the afternoon. The final Broad-winged Hawk total for the day was 1,918 which was just short of yesterday's total. The combined broad-wing total of yesterday and today was 3,849.
The Sharp-shinned Hawk total of 85 was the highest so far this season. Bald Eagles and American Kestrels had their second highest totals of the season. Other species had moderate totals.
Spotting was difficult throughout the afternoon as the migrants were mostly high altitude, but the cloud cover helped with spotting.
New species for season: American Herring Gull, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Palm Warbler.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Rain early then remaining cloudy with showers. High 76F. Winds SSW at 10-15mph. Chance of rain 60%. Overall poor conditions. Count may be shortened.
MONDAY: Some morning sun then increasing clouds. High 69F. Winds NE at 10-15mph. A good breeze from a favorable direction. Perhaps not a great wind for broad-wings, but I would expect other species to be on the move in moderate to good numbers.
TUESDAY: Rain likely. High 63F. Winds NE at 10-20mph. Count will likely be shortened. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Emma Hovland
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Bruce Peterjohn, Greg Gough, Heidi McGrue, Jodi McLaughlin, Maizie Silverman, Nancy Cunningham, Susan Gruver
Weather:
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations: Monarch 4 American Oystercatcher 12 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Emma Hovland (<emmarhovland...>)
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:30:00 Total observation time: 10.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Anthony Capone, Carol Ralph, Carol Spease, Charlotte Rose, Ian Teaell, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Mike Fowles
Visitors: 21
Weather: Cloudy with a short period of sprinkles in the morning. Becoming sunny throughout the afternoon with nearly clear skies at sunset. Quite warm with high humidity dropping throughout the day. Light northerly winds.
Raptor Observations: The morning started out slow with only a handful of migrants each hour. As the sun came out the migration picked up to become moderate with a good mix of species, but no broad-wings until after noon clock time.
The highlight of the morning was an adult PEREGRINE FALCON that crossed in front of us from right to left heading towards the notch where it stooped on a pair of Rock Pigeons, knocking one of them out of the sky then swooping and catching it from midair before carrying it across in front of us for a nice view! Incredible!
By mid-afternoon Broad-winged Hawk numbers were starting to build with 18 in the 2-3pm clock time hour, then two hours with more than a hundred. Finally in the 5-6pm hour the floodgates opened! Various groups in different parts of the sky had totaled around 500 birds when we spotted a large stream passing to our right. The stream was steady for several minutes and included around 500 broad-wings, including many streaming across the face of the moon!
With the clicker just below a thousand for the hour I wanted a few more. Plus all of them had been just streaming and we wanted to see a kettle! Ian T. saved the day by spotting a huge kettle off to the north. Not only was the kettle quite tall, stretching several glasses upwards from the horizon, but we spotted several other kettles feeding into each other as the hawks concentrated in the final thermals of the day. A last closer group closed out the hour at just over 1,600 broad-wings! The last half hour of the count brought another 50 broad-wings gliding low to settle in for the night. We watched one adult broad-wing drop in near the creek for a few minutes before it rose again and headed off towards the notch.
The final Broad-winged Hawk total was 1,931. Other notable totals included 25 Ospreys, 53 sharpies, and 15 kestrels. We saw all raptor species expected this time of the season with the exception of Merlin. In total we had 2,061 migrating raptors. What a day for those present for the final hours, which included a handful of visitors with great timing!
Non-raptor Observations: 35 Canada Geese, 6 Common Nighthawks, 4 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, 2 Double-crested Cormorants, 2 Great Blue Herons, 2 Belted Kingfishers, 2 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS, 80 Blue Jays, 2 Common Ravens, American Redstart, Meadow Fritillary, 251 monarchs https://ebird.org/checklist/S394046136
Predictions: TOMORROW: Partly cloudy. High 74F. Winds NE shifting E at 5-10mph. Given the huge late-day flight here and the high numbers stretching from New Jersey through New England there is likely a large number of Broad-winged Hawks nearby ready to lift off and no shortage of supply behind them. There are never any promises in hawk watching, but a large broad-winged hawk liftoff in the morning seems highly probable. The first broad-wings will likely start getting up around 8:30-9am. The 9-11am period will likely be the most active. After that is a big question mark. As the hawks gets higher and the winds shift more easterly it is possible that we will lose the flight line as the birds get pushed west of us. It is also possible that we hold onto a flight with groups of broad-wings throughout the day. If you want to see a lot of Broad-winged Hawks this fall then tomorrow morning is probably your last good chance.
SUNDAY: Cloudy with showers. High 76F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. Poor conditions overall. Count may be shortened.
MONDAY: More clouds than sun. High near 70F. Winds NE at 10-15mph. Decent conditions overall. Perhaps a chance of more broad-wings depending on what happens tomorrow. The best weather of an otherwise rainy week. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/18/26 5:10 pm From: Andrew Ednie <000006be14ba5998-dmarc-request...> Subject: [de-birds] RBA: Birdline Delaware, September 18th, 2026
RBA * Delaware * Statewide * September 18, 2026 * DEST 26.09.18
*Birds mentioned Snow Goose Blue-winged Teal Black Scoter Surf Scoter Common Merganser Wild Turkey Yellow-billed Cuckoo Black-billed Cuckoo Common Nighthawk Ruby-throated Hummingbird Virginia Rail Sandhill Crane American Oystercatcher Black-necked Stilt American Avocet Black-bellied Plover American Golden Plover Semipalmated Plover Marbled Godwit Willet Short-billed Dowitcher Long-billed Dowitcher Ruddy Turnstone Western Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper Pectoral Sandpiper Stilt Sandpiper BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER Wilson’s Phalarope Black Tern Least Tern Common Tern Caspian Tern Royal Tern Black Skimmer BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE Lesser Black-backed Gull Pied-billed Grebe Brown Pelican Black-crowned Night Heron Yellow-crowned Night Heron Little Blue Heron Tricolored Heron Western Cattle Egret White Ibis Osprey Sharp-shinned Hawk Bald Eagle Broad-winged Hawk Barred Owl Red-headed Woodpecker American Kestrel Merlin Peregrine Falcon Least Flycatcher YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER Willow Flycatcher Blue-headed Vireo Yellow-throated Vireo Eastern Warbling Vireo Philadelphia Vireo Common Raven Red-breasted Nuthatch Brown-headed Nuthatch Veery Swainson’s Thrush Gray-cheeked Thrush Wood Thrush Bobolink Rusty Blackbird Baltimore Oriole Orchard Oriole Yellow-breasted Chat Ovenbird Northern Waterthrush American Redstart Black and White Warbler Prothonotary Warbler Blue-winged Warbler Nashville Warbler Tennessee Warbler CONNECTICUT WARBLER Hooded Warbler Northern Parula Northern Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Cape May Warbler Blackburnian Warbler Bay-breasted Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Pine Warbler Prairie Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Wilson’s Warbler Canada Warbler Summer Tanager Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Hotline: Birdline Delaware Date: September 18, 2026 To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE) Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>) Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern New Jersey, Maryland
For Friday, September 18th this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Greenville. The Birdline is sponsored by the Delaware Ornithological Society (DOS). Statements made on the Birdline do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsors. This is Andy Ednie, glad to be with you. The unofficial Delaware Annual List increased to 321 species this week.
An immature BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE was found yesterday by a fishing birder and seen again today underneath the bridge at Indian River Inlet. This bird was seen along with COMMON, LEAST, CASPIAN and ROYAL TERNS plus BROWN PELICAN. TRICOLORED HERON and WILLET were seen at the south campground. TRICOLORED HERON, WHITE IBIS and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON were seen at Burton’s Island in Delaware Seashore State Park along with PEREGRINE FALCON. A MARBLED GODWIT was photographed feeding in the surf at Bethany Beach.
BLACK and SURF SCOTER, AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER, and RUDDY TURNSTONE were in Cape Henlopen State Park. RED-BREASTED and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCHES were seen at the Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier. LEAST, COMMON, CASPIAN and ROYAL TERNS were seen at Cape Henlopen Point. There was a peak count of 405 WHITE IBIS at Gordon’s Pond, along with TRICOLORED HERON, GLOSSY IBIS, WESTERN CATTLE EGRET, plus WILLET, PECTORAL SANDPIPER and RUDDY TURNSTONE.
A total of six species of vireo were seen in Delaware this week. The first BLUE-HEADED VIREO was seen at Gordon’s Pond today along with PALM WARBLER and LEAST FLYCATCHER. PHILADELPHIA VIREOS were seen at First State National Historical Park, Brandywine Unit, Brandywine Creek State Park, Ashland Nature Center, Middle Run Natural Area in Newark, University of Delaware Farm, Ashton Tract and Waren Tract in Augustine Wildlife Area near Port Penn, and at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
CONNECTICUT WARBLERS were reported this week at Brandywine Creek State Park, Middle Run, Cape Henlopen, and photographed at the McCabe Preserve near Milton. Early PALM WARBLERS were seen at Brandywine Creek, First State, Gordon’s Pond and Assawoman Wildlife Area. A female HOODED WARBLER was photographed at Brandywine Creek. WILSON’S and lingering BLUE-WINGED WARBLERS were seen at Ashton Tract and Bombay Hook. A total of 26 species of warbler were reported this week including OVENBIRD, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, AMERICAN REDSTART, NORTHERN PARULA, plus PROTHONOTARY, BLACK AND WHITE, TENNESSEE, NASHVILLE, CAPE MAY, MAGNOLIA, YELLOW, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACKBURNIAN, BAY-BREASTEED, BLACKPOLL, PINE, PRAIRIE, CANADA, plus BLACK-THROATED BLUE, and GREEN WARBLER
A YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER was seen at Ashland Nature Center. A WILLOW and LEAST FLYCATCHER was identified at the Ashton Tract. LEAST FLYCATCHER was also found Gordon’s Pond and Redden State Forest. BLACK-BILLED CUCKOOS were seen at White Clay Creek State Park and Port Penn. The first GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH was found at Middle Run, along with large numbers of VEERY, SWAINSON’S and WOOD THRUSH. An early RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen today at Brandywine Creek. Some common migrants this week included YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD, YELLOW-THROATED and WARBLING VIREOS, plus ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK.
A BLUE-WINGED TEAL in eclipse plumage was seen at Brandywine Creek State Park. A family of COMMON MERGANSERS continues to be seen along the Red Clay Creek at Ashland Nature Center. COMMON RAVENS were reported at both sites. A SNOW GOOSE continues to be seen off Kirkwood-St. Georges Road near Lums Pond State Park. BARRED OWL continues at Lums Pond. SANDHILL CRANE was seen at the Ashton Tract. VIRGINIA RAIL was reported at the Fire Truck Pond in Port Penn impoundments. AMERICAN AVOCET, WESTERN SANDPIPER, plus CASPIAN and BLACK TERN were seen at Thousand Acre Marsh, along with a lingering LITTLE BLUE HERON.
A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was photographed at the Apgar Turf Farm along the Smyrna-Leipsic Road in Kent Co. The first SNOW GEESE were seen at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge this week. Shorebirds seen included 450 AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK-BELLIED, SEMIPALMATED and AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, SHORT and LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, DUNLIN, plus WHITE-RUMPED, WESTERN, and PECTORAL SANDPIPER. Long-legged waders included WHITE IBIS, TRICOLORED HERON, YELLOW-CROWNED and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON plus SANDHILL CRANES. WILD TURKEY, BOBOLINK, and YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT were also reported in the refuge.
ROYAL TERNS and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL continue to be seen at Port Mahon. AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, PIED-BILLED GREBE, and LITTLE BLUE HERON were seen at the Main Tract in Little Creek Wildlife Area. BARRED OWL was found at the Killens Pond State Park. BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH was found in Milford Neck Wildlife Area. AMERICAN AVOCET, WHITE IBIS, RUDDY TURNSTONE, and 80 ROYAL TERNS were seen at Big Stone Beach. AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER, WILLET, TURNSTONE, and 22 BROWN PELICANS were seen at Mispillion Inlet from the duPont Nature Center.
The previously reported WILSON’S PHALAROPES were seen at Oyster Rocks Road and along the Dike Trail in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Other shorebirds reported included BLACK-NECKED STILT, plus STILT, WESTERN, WHITE-RUMPED, and PECTORAL SANDPIPER at Oyster Rocks. AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK SKIMMER, WHITE IBIS and TRICOLORED HERON were seen at the Dike Trail in Prime Hook.
Lots of RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS were reported this week. Individual birds were seen flying past Ashland Nature Center on Saturday, Monday, and today. An adult was seen flying over a yard off Massey’s Church Road in Townsend. In southern Delaware, RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS were seen at the McCabe Preserve, Ponders Tract, Redden State Forest, Angola Neck Preserve, Assawoman Wildlife Area, and a high count of 6 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS were at the Great Cypress Swamp near Selbyville. Downstate, SUMMER TANAGERS were still being reported at Assawoman, Redden, and Trap Pond State Park. Both ORCHARD and BALTIMORE ORIOLES were seen in Sussex Co. this week. COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen at Brandywine Creek, Ashland Nature Center, Middletown, Hartley, Milford, and Cape Henlopen.
It was a big day at Delaware’s hawk watches today. A total of over 1900 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS were reported at Ashland Nature Center, along with 25 OSPREY, 8 BALD EAGLES, 53 SHARP-SHINED HAWKS, 15 AMERICAN KESTRELS and a PEREGRINE FALCON. Cape Henlopen reported 79 OSPREYS and 11 MERLINS. Now’s the time to get out and visit Delaware’s hawk watches!
Thanks to all the people that make the Birdline possible, including, Jeff Gordon, Jim Rapp, Kira Kaplinski, Warren Crabb, Carter Chambers, Bruce and Kelly White, Payton Stone, Bill Oyler, Karen Hardy, Steve McInnis, Debbie Blair, Ashley Norton, Lynn Jackson, Martin Selzer, Megan Kasprzak, Joe Sebastiani, David Thomas, Ed Patten, Jen Driscoll, Daryl Sharman, Sam VanHorne, Frank Rohrbacher, John Carter, Phil Misseldine, Rod Murray, Chris Rankin, Kent Raymond, Carolyn Holland, Mary Braun, Sue Gruver, Rob Blye, Richard Julian, Greg Gough, Tom Stock, Chris and Karen Bennett, Will Krohn, Jim and Amy White, Carolyn D’Amico, Paul Wilson, Kyla Snowden, Peter Schuyler, Matt Broomer, Tracy Mosebey, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Ian Teaell, Ellie McDonald, John and Andy Dunn, Wendy Cesario, Mike Moore, Joe Francis, Bruce Peterjohn, and Joe Swertinski. Thanks to our two hawk counters David Brown and Emma Hovland. Special thanks to Joe Tricarico for list distribution to DOS members. Reme! mber, Birdline needs your support. Please call your sightings to 302-792-9591. Thank you for your support. This is Andy Ednie wishing you good birding!
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Jim Lewis, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass
Visitors: 9
Weather: Mostly cloudy with a few short periods of sprinkles. Light southwest winds. Warm and muggy.
Raptor Observations: A slow day overall. Ospreys were most numerous with ten, with seven of those coming in the last two hours. Five sharpies and two Coops. One Merlin. No broad-wings.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Intervals of clouds and sunshine. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 84F. Winds N at 5-10mph. A favorable wind direction. I would expect a moderate raptor flight overall. Finally some increasing broad-winged hawk totals in New England with over 750 seen at Pack Monadnock (NH) this morning. With no broad-wings seen here today I wouldn't expect a morning liftoff, but with the favorable winds perhaps some of the New England broad-wings could arrive later in the day.
SATURDAY: Partly cloudy. High around 75F. Winds NE shifting E at 5-10mph. Decent conditions again. Check back tomorrow. The last decent day before six days of cloudy, rainy conditions.
SUNDAY: Morning showers evolving into a steady rain for the afternoon. High 76F. Winds S at 10-15mph. Chance of rain 80%. Count will likely be shortened. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Marina deLeeuw, Sheryl Johnson
Visitors: 17
Weather: Sunny except for a few small clouds in the morning. Warm. Light to moderate southwesterly winds.
Raptor Observations: A moderate amount of local raptor activity in the mid-morning but painfully slow for migration. Bald Eagles were most numerous with 7. Only four Broad-winged Hawks. An Osprey gave a great look as it came overhead inn the morning. Two Sharp-shinned Hawks. Local raptors included red-tails, red-shoulders, and a Cooper's Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Morning birding: 2 Philadelphia Vireos, Blue-winged Warbler, 3 Black-and-white Warblers, 6 Common Yellowthroats, 3 American Redstarts, 2 Magnolia Warblers, Indigo Bunting. https://ebird.org/checklist/S393381726
Predictions: TOMORROW: Some morning sun then increasing clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 83F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. Wind similar to today from an unfavorable direction. Clouds may help with spotting, but there may not be much to spot if today's result is an indication. Kittatinny Ridge sites have been reporting moderate broad-wing numbers the past few days. Sites from us up through New England have been reporting low numbers mostly. Seems unlikely a big flight will arrive.
FRIDAY: Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 83F. Winds N at 5-10mph. Probably the best day coming up. A favorable wind direction and overall good conditions for broad-wings. Clouds will help with spotting. It is just a question of whether the broad-wings are in position to get here. Check my forecast tomorrow after we see tomorrow's results.
SATURDAY: Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High 76F. Winds E at 5-10mph. Decent conditions for raptor activity, though an easterly wind can be less favorable for us to get broad-wings. After this the weather turns rainy and gloomy for 5 days. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Carol Ralph, Carol Spease, Jim Lewis, Joe Francis, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Mike Fowles
Visitors: 32, including about 20 from an OSHER lifelong learning field trip.
Weather: Sunny except for occasional small short-lived clouds. Light winds that shifted from NE to SE then to SW.
Raptor Observations: An adult Broad-winged Hawk was flushed from down below and perched in a tree next to the hawk watch at the start of the count before Blue Jays chased it away. A decent morning liftoff of broad-wings with kettles up to 40 individuals, though most were distant to the north. None were seen after the initial few hours and the final total was 166. Small numbers of other expected species including 3 harriers, 16 sharpies, and four merlins.
Non-raptor Observations: 11 Canada Geese, Common Nighthawk, 4 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, 2 Belted Kingfishers, 60 Cedar Waxwings, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, 32 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S393231559
New species for season: Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Predictions: TOMORROW: Plentiful sunshine. High 82F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. Another good day for strong thermals so broad-wings should be on the move if any are in the area. A southerly wind is less favorable for migration, but a westerly element is better for our chances of broad-wings the next few days. Spotting will be difficult again without many clouds. Broad-wing numbers still haven't built up much at the New England sites yet, so I wouldn't expect a big broad-wing day, but maybe we'll be surprised. We didn't have any afternoon broad-wings today so a good morning liftoff seems unlikely.
THURSDAY: Mostly cloudy becoming partly cloudy. High 84F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. Clouds will help with spotting. Still a less favorable wind direction.
FRIDAY: A day to keep an eye on. Partly cloudy. High 84F. Wind N at 5-10mph. A great wind, along with some clouds for spotting. If broad-wings start being seen in higher numbers north of us the next few days then this could be the day to aim for. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Ian Teaell, Joe Francis, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Observers: Carol Ralph, Cyndi Newcomb, Ian Teaell, Joe Francis , Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Richard King
Weather: Mostly sunny with a moderate northerly wind.
Raptor Observations: Great flight! Broad-winged Hawks were most numerous with just over 200, their highest total so far this season. Moderate numbers of other migrants including good numbers of sharpies and kestrels.
Non-raptor Observations: 145 monarchs
Predictions: TOMORROW: Sunny. High 76F. Winds ESE at 5-10mph. Good conditions for thermals, though spotting may be tough without many clouds. Hopefully we'll get more broad-wings.
WEDNESDAY: Sunshine and some clouds. High 82F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. Another good day for thermals. Potential for broad-wings.
THURSDAY: Partly cloudy. High 86F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. Another good day for thermals. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Will Krohn
Observers: David Brown
Visitors: 7
Weather: Overnight rain lingered into the morning and delayed the start of the count. Transitioning to partly sunny skies for the afternoon. Light northerly winds. Quite warm and muggy.
Raptor Observations: Unfortunately not much of a flight even when it cleared up. Ospreys were most numerous with five. Only three broad-wings. Small numbers of other expected species.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Sunny skies. High near 75F. Winds NNW at 10-15mph. Great winds. Spotting may be difficult if there aren't clouds. We are now entering the period when large Broad-winged Hawk flights are a possibility.
TUESDAY: Sunny with a few clouds from time to time. High 76F. Winds ESE at 5-10mph. A less favorable wind direction, but weak so it may not make a big difference. Decent conditions for broad-wings to be on the move.
WEDNESDAY: Sunny with some cloudy intervals. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Decent conditions again. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Anthony Capone, Bob Rufe, Jim Green, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Mike Fowles, Samir Saadeh, Sharon Helmerich
Visitors: 20
Weather: Mostly cloudy becoming mostly sunny for the late morning before clouding over to overcast by the end of the count. Light winds that shifted from NE to SE. Pleasant day. Quite warm at times when the sun was out.
Raptor Observations: A moderate flight. Broad-winged Hawks were most numerous with 21. Sharp-shinned Hawks were steady with 16. Another decent Osprey flight with 15. The first Peregrine Falcon of the season, a juvenile, dove on a Northern Harrier, but the harrier turned the tables and started diving at the peregrine which greatly amused us. A few vultures were counted as migrating, including the first Black Vultures of the season.
Non-raptor Observations: Morning birding: Swainson's Thrush, 3 Northern Waterthrushes, 2 Black-and-white Warblers, 10 Common Yellowthroats, 10 American Redstarts, Magnolia Warbler, Northern Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler. https://ebird.org/checklist/S392083984
Hawk Watch: RED-HEADED WOODPECKER, Philadelphia Vireo, Fish Crow with white wings, 2 Common Ravens, Black-and-white Warbler, 2 American Redstarts, Northern Parula, 13 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S392297365
New species for season: Philadelphia Vireo, Red-headed Woodpecker, Common Grackle
Predictions: TOMORROW: Rain showers early with some sunshine later. High 84F. Winds WNW at 5-10mph. The gloomy weather may delay the start of the count. Some clearing as the day goes on. A decent wind direction but weak. Probably some activity for the afternoon but I wouldn't expect a big day.
MONDAY: Some morning clouds then mainly sunny. High 77F. Winds NNW at 10-15mph. Excellent winds. Spotting may be difficult if the clouds go away. Should be a decent day for migration. Still too early for a lot of broad-wings?
TUESDAY: Partly cloudy skies. High 76F. Winds ESE at 5-10mph. Good conditions for raptors to be active. A less favorable wind direction but weak so not a huge factor. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/11/26 4:44 pm From: Andrew Ednie <000006be14ba5998-dmarc-request...> Subject: [de-birds] RBA: Birdline Delaware, September 11th, 2026
RBA * Delaware * Statewide * September 11, 2026 * DEST 26.09.11
*Birds mentioned Black Scoter Black Scoter Common Merganser Red-breasted Merganser Common Gallinule Sandhill Crane American Oystercatcher Black-necked Stilt American Avocet Black-bellied Plover American Golden Plover Semipalmated Plover Marbled Godwit Hudsonian Godwit Willet Short-billed Dowitcher Long-billed Dowitcher Ruddy Turnstone Western Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper BAIRD’S SANDPIPER Pectoral Sandpiper Stilt Sandpiper BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER Wilson’s Phalarope Royal Tern Black Skimmer Brown Pelican Black-crowned Night Heron Yellow-crowned Night heron Tricolored Heron White Ibis MISSISSIPPI KITE Osprey Broad-winged Hawk Barred Owl Red-headed Woodpecker American Kestrel Merlin OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER Least Flycatcher YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER Philadelphia Vireo Common Raven Red-breasted Nuthatch Brown-headed Nuthatch Veery Swainson’s Thrush Grasshopper Sparrow Saltmarsh Sparrow Baltimore Oriole Yellow-breasted Chat Ovenbird Northern Waterthrush American Redstart Black and White Warbler Prothonotary Warbler Blue-winged Warbler GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER Nashville Warbler Tennessee Warbler CONNECTICUT WARBLER Northern Parula Northern Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Cape May Warbler Blackburnian Warbler Bay-breasted Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Pine Warbler Prairie Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Canada Warbler Summer Tanager Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Hotline: Birdline Delaware Date: September 11, 2026 To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE) Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>) Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern New Jersey, Maryland
For Friday, September 11th this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Greenville. The Birdline is sponsored by the Delaware Ornithological Society (DOS). Statements made on the Birdline do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsors. This is Andy Ednie, glad to be with you. The unofficial Delaware Annual List increased to 320 species this week.
The first CONNECTICUT WARBLERS of the year were reported this week at Ashland Natue Center, Brandywine Creek State Park, and First State National Historical Park, Brandywine Unit off Ramsey Road. Another CONNECTICUT WARBLER was reported along Fowlers Beach Road in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge yesterday. A male GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER was seen Saturday off Creek Road just south of Chambers Rock Road in White Clay Creek State Park. A female GOLDEN-WING was seen Monday at the back side of Finis Pool along Raymond Neck Road in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
TENNESSEE WARBLER was reported at First State, Middle Run Wildlife Area, University of Delaware Ag Farm, White Clay Creek and Summit Bridge. NASHVILLE WARBLER was reported at Ashland Nature Center, White Clay Creek, and the Boardwalk Trail parking area in Bombay Hook. A single BLACKPOLL WARBLER was seen at the Fire Truck Pond in Port Penn Impoundments. Early YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS were seen at Harry’s Pond in the Brandywine Town Center, Ashland Nature Center, Bombay Hook, and Cape Henlopen. A total of 26 species of warbler were reported this week including OVENBIRD, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, AMERICAN REDSTART, NORTHERN PARULA, plus BLACK AND WHITE, BLUE-WINGED, CAPE MAY, MAGNOLIA, YELLOW, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACKBURNIAN, PINE, PRAIRIE, CANADA, plus BLACK-THROATED BLUE, and GREEN WARBLER
An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was seen at Ashland Nature Center and the Ashton Tract in Augustine Wildlife Area. A YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER was reported at Lums Pond State Park PHILADELPHIA VIREO was seen at White Clay Creek, Parson Point Road in Bombay Hook, and at Shearness Tower. A RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH was reported at Ashland Nature Center. RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was found at Curtis Mill Park in Newark, GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was reported near Delaware City, and YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT was seen at the Ashton Tract. Some common migrants this week included LEAST FLYCATCHER, VEERY, SWAINSON’S THRUSH,BALTIMORE ORIOLE, and ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK.
The previously reported BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was re-found at Shearness Pool in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. The bird was seen again on the sandbar opposite Shearness tower on the south side of the impoundment. Other shorebirds included HUDSONIAN and MARBLED GODWIT, AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK-BELLIED, SEMIPALMATED and AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, SHORT and LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, DUNLIN, plus WHITE-RUMPED, WESTERN, and PECTORAL SANDPIPER. Long-legged waders included WHITE IBIS, TRICOLORED, YELLOW-CROWNED and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON plus SANDHILL CRANES.
ROYAL TERNS continue to be seen at Port Mahon. BARRED OWL was found at the main Tract in Little Creek Wildlife Area. SALTMARSH SPARROW, WHITE IBIS and MERLIN were seen at Big Stone Beach. RED-HEADED WOODPECKER and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH were found in Milford Neck Wildlife Area.
A couple of immature YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS continue to be seen at the Marvel Salt Marsh Preserve Pond in Slaughters Beach. A BAIRD’S SANDPIPER was found along the shoreline at Evans Road in Slaughters Beach. COMMON RAVEN was found at Fowlers Beach. The previously reported WILSON’S PHALAROPES were last seen on Monday at Oyster Rocks Road in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Othe shorebirds reported included BLACK-NECKED STILT, plus BAIRD’S. STILT, WESTERN, WHITE-RUMPED, and PECTORAL SANDPIPER. AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK SKIMMER, WHITE IBIS and TRICOLORED HERON were seen at the Dike Trail at Prime Hook.
BLACK SCOTER, AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER, and RUDDY TURNSTONE were in Cape Henlopen State Park. AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, WILLET and RED BREASTED MERGANSER were seen at Herring Point. Cape Henlopen Point is now open to foot traffic and the number of terns is decreased. Over 300 BROWN PELICANS were seen on the outer breakwater in Lewes Harbor. COMMON GALLINULE was seen at Assawoman Wildlife Area. A late SUMMER TANAGER was seen in Harbeson.
Delaware’s hawk watches continue this week at Ashland Nature Center and Cape Henlopen State Park. Welcome to our two hawk counters David Brown and Emma Hovland. A MISSISSIPPI KITE was seen at Cape Henlopen Hawk Watch on Saturday. Cape Henlopen has already reported over 200 OSPREYS. A high count of almost 200 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS was seen at Ashland Nature Center last weekend, along with 58 AMERICAN KESTRELS and 6 MERLIN. A family of 5-7 COMMON MERGANSERS were seen along the Red Clay Creek at Ashland this week
Thanks to all the people that make the Birdline possible, including, Mike Smith, Sally O’byrne, Jac Contrell, Win Shafer, Bert Filemyr, Mike Rosengarten, Sam Payne, Ashley Norton, Ann Dinkel, Derek Ritzman, Lynn Jackson, Martin Selzer, Megan Kasprzak, Joe Sebastiani, David Thomas, Ed Patten, Jen Driscoll, Daryl Sharman, Sam VanHorne, Frank Rohrbacher, John Carter, Phil Misseldine, Rod Murray, Chris Rankin, Kent Raymond, Carolyn Holland, Mary Braun, Sue Gruver, Rob Blye, Richard Julian, Greg Gough, Tom Stock, Nancy Cummingham, Chris and Karen Bennett, Will Krohn, Jim and Amy White, Barbara Jones, Kim Steininger, Judy Montgomery, Lana Glass, Ian Teaell, Ellie McDonald, John and Andy Dunn, Wendy Cesario, Mike Moore, Joe Francis, Bruce Peterjohn, and Joe Swertinski. Special thanks to Joe Tricarico for list distribution to DOS members. Remember, Birdline needs your support. Please call your sightings to 302-792-9591. Thank you for your support. This is Andy Ednie wishing you g! ood birding!
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Anthony Capone, Frank Rohrbacher, Ian Teaell, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Laureen Eick-Benson, Mike Fowles, Rachel Yurchisin
Visitors: 20, including about 10 from a Knee High Naturalists group.
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning with a brief period of sprinkles. A blue sliver on the north horizon slowly moved south resulting in a nearly clear sky by the late afternoon. Light northerly winds.
Raptor Observations: The best flight out of the past five days. Broad-winged Hawks were most numerous with 43, including a group of 11. Some gave nice looks as they lifted off in the morning. The broad-wing flight was concentrated in the morning. Sharp-shinned Hawks had their best flight so far this season with 18. Nine Ospreys. For falcons we had four kestrels and two Merlins.
Hawk Watch: 1 Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Black-and-white Warbler, 2 American Redstarts, Cape May Warbler, Northern Parula, Magnolia Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, 31 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S391922982
New species for season: Yellow-throated Vireo, Cape May Warbler
Predictions: TOMORROW: Partly cloudy becoming cloudy. High 81F. Winds SE at 10-15mph. Conditions should be good enough for raptors to be active, but migration may slow as it gets cloudier and the winds shift to a less favorable direction.
SUNDAY: Morning showers then partly cloudy. High near 85F. Winds WNW at 5-10mph. The count may be delayed, but conditions are looking good for the afternoon as it clears up.
MONDAY: A few morning showers then sunny. High 76F. Winds NNW at 10-15mph. Good conditions after the early-morning showers. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Jen Driscoll, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass
Visitors: 7
Weather: Mostly cloudy with light to moderate winds that switched between northeast and WNW. Quite warm.
Raptor Observations: Not much migration despite good skies and a decent wind. Broad-winged Hawks were most numerous with 6. One Merlin gave a close pass. One Osprey and a few Bald Eagles. Small numbers of other expected migrants.
Non-raptor Observations: Morning birding: 7 Common Mergansers, 2 Black-and-white Warblers, 4 American Redstarts, Magnolia Warbler. https://ebird.org/checklist/S391501783
Predictions: TOMORROW: Cloudy skies early then partly cloudy. High 82F. Winds N at 5-10mph. A good wind direction. The clouds may delay the start of the flight, but it could turn into a pleasant afternoon once the sun comes out. Hopefully the northerly breeze will bring some migrants.
SATURDAY: Mainly cloudy. High around 80F. Winds SE at 5-10mph. A less favorable wind direction.
SUNDAY: Morning showers becoming partly cloudy. High 84F. Winds WNW at 5-10mph. Decent conditions after the rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/9/26 4:28 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] Cape Henlopen (09 Sep 2026) 9 Raptors
Counting period: 08:56-16:01
<https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?<id...> Count type: Storks and raptors
Weather: wind SW 10mph, cloud-cover 2/8, temperature 90 ℉, humidity 46%,
air pressure 1028hPa
Observers: Emma Hovland, Bruce Peterjohn, Susan Gruver
S N
Osprey 8 -
Bald Eagle * 1 -
Monarch 1 -
Present:
Black Vulture 2, Turkey Vulture 9, Osprey 3, Cooper's Hawk 1*, Bald Eagle 2*
, Red-tailed Hawk 1
Date: 9/9/26 4:02 pm From: Andrew Ednie <000006be14ba5998-dmarc-request...> Subject: [de-birds] White Clay Bird Census
Weather is looking bad for tomorrow morning. The weekly White Clay Creek Bird Census will be postponed from tomorrow morning to Friday, September 11th. We'll still be starting at 7:30 am from the Chambers Rock Road parking lot. Hope this helps to hit the big wave of migration after the front moves through.
Sorry to the birders planning to go out tomorrow but can't make Friday! Andy
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Daniel Noznisky, Joe Swertinski, Lana Glass
Visitors: 6
Weather: Mostly sunny. Warm with moderate southwest winds.
Raptor Observations: The unfavorable wind direction held back the migration. Turkey Vultures were most numerous with 11. Three Ospreys. Three harriers including an adult male that gave a nice look. Four sharpies plus a couple local Coops. Only four broad-wings. One each of kestrel and Merlin.
Hawk Watch: Common Merganser, 4 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, STRIPED SADDLEBAGS, 5 monarchs, American Copper, Common Checkered-Skipper. https://ebird.org/checklist/S391386701
Predictions: TOMORROW: Cloudy early becoming partly cloudy later. Warm. High 87F. Winds W at 5-10mph. The morning clouds may delay the flight, but it could turn into a pleasant afternoon with some activity.
FRIDAY: Intervals of clouds and sun. High 82F. Winds N at 5-10mph. Good conditions. The best looking day coming up.
SATURDAY: Mostly cloudy. High 81F. Winds SE at 5-10mph. A less favorable wind direction but fairly weak so should still be some activity. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Joe Sebastiani, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Mike Fowles, Walt Blackwell
Visitors: 7
Weather: Mostly sunny with light northerly winds.
Raptor Observations: Overall slow for migration. A handful of decent looks, though some migrants were quite high. Broad-winged Hawks were most numerous with 17. The only Osprey was a high steamer in the last hour. Small numbers of other expected migrants including 3 sharpies, 2 kestrels, and a Merlin. A Merlin dove at a juvenile Cooper's Hawk in the morning.
Hawk watch: 6 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Great Blue Heron, Tennessee Warbler, 14 monarchs, Common Checkered-Skipper. https://ebird.org/checklist/S391127304
New species for season: Common Merganser, Swainson's Thrush, Prairie Warbler.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Mix of sun and clouds. High 87F. Winds SSW at 10-15mph. An increasingly strong unfavorable wind that will bring hot weather for the afternoon. Should be decent conditions for raptors to be flying but the direction may hold back the migration.
THURSDAY: Rain showers early then mostly cloudy later. Warm. High around 85F. Winds W at 5-10mph. Probably unfavorable conditions. Count may be shortened.
FRIDAY: Sun with a few passing clouds. High 81F. Winds NNW at 5-10mph. Overall favorable conditions for migration. Spotting may difficult if there aren't many clouds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/7/26 6:50 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] Cape Henlopen (07 Sep 2026) 27 raptors
Monday 7 September 2026
Counting period: 08:11-13:49
<https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?<id...> Count type: Storks and raptors
Weather: wind ENE 2mph, cloud-cover 4/8, precipitation none, visibility
10000m, temperature 75 ℉, humidity 57%, air pressure 30.13hPa
Observers: Bruce Peterjohn, Tom Stock, Carter Chambers, Cuneyt Yilmaz, Ann
Dinkle, Sue Gruver
S N
Osprey * 21 -
American Kestrel 1 -
Merlin 4 -
Peregrine Falcon 1 -
Monarch 1 -
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Joe Francis, Joe Swertinski
Observers: Anthony Capone, David Brown, Ian Teaell, Lana Glass, Richard King
Visitors: 14
Weather: Sunny becoming partly cloudy in the late-morning before clearing again late. Light winds from the north and east. Pleasant day.
Raptor Observations: Less migration today than other recent days and tough spotting when there were few clouds. Sharp-shinned Hawks were most numerous with 11. Six Ospreys. Only three broad-wings. The only falcons were four kestrels. Small numbers of other expected migrants.
New species for season: Wood Thrush, Tennessee Warbler, Pine Warbler.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Mainly sunny with a few afternoon clouds. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Overall similar to today and would expect similar results.
WEDNESDAY: A few clouds early then mostly sunny. High 87F. Winds SSW at 10-15mph. A stronger wind from an unfavorable direction could hold back the migration.
THURSDAY: Partly cloudy then occasional afternoon showers. High 84F. Wind W at 10-15mph. Depends on the timing of the rain but probably unfavorable conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/6/26 8:00 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] Cape Henlopen Hawk Watch (06 Sep 2026) 115 Raptors
1. Sunday 6 September 2026
Counting period: 08:54-13:55
<https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?<id...> Count type: Storks and raptors
Weather: wind NNE 2mph, cloud-cover 0/8, precipitation none, visibility
100m, temperature 66 ℉, humidity 92%, air pressure 20.9hPa
Observers: Bruce Peterjohn, Tom Stock, Sue Gruver, Ann Dinkle, Sharon
Borton
S N S N
Turkey Vulture 3 - Red-shouldered Hawk 1 -
Osprey * 73 - American Kestrel 7 -
Sharp-shinned Hawk 2 - Merlin 5 -
Bald Eagle * 24 - Monarch 9 -
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Ian Teaell, Will Krohn
Observers: Andy Ednie, Carol Ralph, David Brown, Greg Darone, Ian Teaell, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Lisa Smith, Nate H., Will Krohn
Visitors: 18
Weather: Clear skies to start becoming mostly cloudy by the afternoon. Light to moderate northeasterly winds. Pleasant day.
Raptor Observations: Another good flight for early in the season. Broad-winged Hawks were most numerous with 54. Kestrels had a strong flight with 27. Fewer Ospreys with only eight today. Moderate Accip numbers with 14 sharpies and 13 Coops. Six harriers including at least two adult males.
Migrants were mostly high overhead but a few were lower and gave nice looks.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Sunny. High around 80F. Winds light and variable. Moderate conditions. Hopefully the good migration will continue. Spotting may be difficult if there aren't clouds.
TUESDAY: Mainly sunny with a few afternoon clouds. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Moderate conditions.
WEDNESDAY: Mostly sunny with a few clouds early. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10-15mph. A shift back to less favorable winds and fairly strong. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/5/26 6:35 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] Cape Henlopen Hawk Watch data thus far
Hi all,
We are having some technical issues posting the Cape Henlopen hawk watch daily totals from the site where the data is entered (Trektellen.org) to HawkCount (the North American migration database), though the data is publicly available at this link; [Trektellen.org] - Migration counts & captures <https://trektellen.org/count/view/6408/20260905>
As a temporary measure, here is the data thus far. Tuesday September 1st
S N Osprey 10 - Bald Eagle * 2 - Monarch 3 -
Present: Black Vulture 1, Turkey Vulture 5, Osprey 2, Cooper's Hawk 1, Bald Eagle 1* , Peregrine Falcon 1
Wednesday September 2nd S N Osprey 6 - Bald Eagle * 4 -
Present: Black Vulture 1, Turkey Vulture 5, Osprey 2, Cooper's Hawk 1*, Bald Eagle 3*
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Carter Chambers, Holly Merker, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Mike Fowles
Visitors: 19
Weather: Mostly cloudy becoming mostly sunny in the final hours. A light to moderate northerly breeze. Warm and pleasant day.
Raptor Observations: An unexpectedly huge flight for being only five days into the season! The day started off strong with seven Ospreys in the first hour and a total of 47 for the day which doubled the already good season total. A few high streaming Turkey Vultures were counted as migrants. A very strong Bald Eagle flight for so early in the season with 26.
After getting the first harrier of the season late in the day yesterday we had a dozen more today. The first eight Sharp-shinned Hawks of the season migrated today, but only one Cooper's Hawk.
Going into today only eight Broad-winged Hawks had been seen, but we had 134 today which is hopefully a good sign for the next few weeks. We also had a push of nine Red-tailed Hawks, mostly or all juveniles.
We had the first decent push of falcons with 31 kestrels and 3 Merlins.
The early flight was mostly along the ridge to the north, but a steady overhead flight developed as the thermals got stronger. We had decent cloud cover for spotting the high migrants.
Hawk Watch: Common Nighthawk, 350 Chimney Swifts, 12 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, 11 Double-crested Cormorants, Great Blue Heron, OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, 20 Red-winged Blackbirds, 36 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S390092256
New species for season: Northern Parula, Black-throated Green Warbler, Double-crested Cormorant, Red-winged Blackbird.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Mostly sunny. High near 80F. Winds NNE at 5-10mph. Good conditions overall. A favorable wind direction. Spotting may be difficult when migrants get high if there aren't many clouds. Let's hope the strong flight from today continues!
MONDAY: Mainly sunny. High around 80F. Winds light and variable. Moderate conditions. Spotting may be difficult if there aren't many clouds.
TUESDAY: Mix of sun and clouds. High 82F. Winds WNW at 5-10mph. Moderate conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/4/26 6:31 pm From: Andrew Ednie <000006be14ba5998-dmarc-request...> Subject: [de-birds] RBA: Birdline Delaware, September 4th, 2026
RBA * Delaware * Statewide * September 4, 2026 * DEST 26.09.04
*Birds mentioned Black Scoter Ruby-throated Hummingbird SELASPHORUS-TYPE HUMMINGBIRD Common Nighthawk Sora Common Gallinule Sandhill Crane American Oystercatcher Black-necked Stilt American Avocet Black-bellied Plover American Golden Plover Semipalmated Plover Piping Plover Hudsonian Whimbrel Hudsonian Godwit Willet Short-billed Dowitcher Long-billed Dowitcher American Woodcock Ruddy Turnstone Red Knot Dunlin Western Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper BAIRD’S SANDPIPER Pectoral Sandpiper Stilt Sandpiper BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER Wilson’s Phalarope Red-necked Phalarope Black Tern Least Tern ROSEATE TERN Common Tern SANDWICH TERN Caspian Tern Royal Tern Black Skimmer Parasitic Jaeger LONG-TAILED JAEGER Wilson’s Storm-Petrel Brown Pelican Northern Gannet Least Bittern Black-crowned Night Heron Yellow-crowned Night heron Little Blue Heron Tricolored Heron White Ibis Northern Harrier Broad-winged Hawk Barred Owl Red-headed Woodpecker OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER Least Flycatcher YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER Philadelphia Vireo Common Raven Cliff Swallow Sedge Wren Veery Swainson’s Thrush Grasshopper Sparrow Saltmarsh Sparrow White-throated Sparrow Ovenbird Louisiana Waterthrush Northern Waterthrush Worm-eating Warbler American Redstart Black and White Warbler Prothonotary Warbler Blue-winged Warbler GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER Blue-Winged X Golden-Winged Warbler Nashville Warbler Tennessee Warbler Hooded Warbler Northern Parula Northern Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Cape May Warbler CERULEAN WARBLER Blackburnian Warbler Bay-breasted Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Wilson’s Warbler Canada Warbler Summer Tanager PAINTED BUNTING
Hotline: Birdline Delaware Date: September 4, 2026 To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE) Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>) Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern New Jersey, Maryland
For the beginning of the Labor Day weekend, on Friday, September 4th this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Greenville. The Birdline is sponsored by the Delaware Ornithological Society (DOS). Statements made on the Birdline do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsors. This is Andy Ednie, glad to be with you. The unofficial Delaware Annual List increased to 319 species this week. Delaware received 2 extra inches of rain last month to fill the impoundments for shorebirds. Things are very wet in the state right now.
Hummingbird season is upon us. Watch for migrant hummers moving through the state right now. A high count of 40 hummers was reported from Edelen’s Bird Habitat in Harbison. A Selasphorus-type hummingbird, either RUFOUS or ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRD made a brief visit to a feeder in Sussex County this week. Unfortunately, the bird did not stay long enough to be banded for a positive identification.
The first PHILADELPHIA VIREO of the year was seen at Ashland Nature Center. Additionally, a LAWRENCES’S WARBLER, the hybrid of BLUE-WINGED x GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER was also found in the same area along with CAPE MAY, WILSON’S, and TENNESSEE WARBLER plus a late lingering LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH. Both CERULEAN and GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER were found along the Hidden Pond Trail at Brandywine Creek State Park, along with a HOODED and BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. NASHVILLE WARBLER was reported at Middle Run Natural Area and downstate at the McCabe Nature Preserve. An early YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER was reported off Stage Road near Middle Run Natural Area in Newark. PROTHONOTARY WARBLER were still being seen at Lums Pond State Park and along the Assawoman Canal in Bethany Beach. Another CAPE MAY WARBLER was found in a yard at the Fire Truck Pond near Port Penn. A total of 29 species of warbler were reported this week including OVENBIRD, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, AMERICAN REDSTART, NORTHERN PARULA,! plus WORM-EATING, BLACK AND WHITE, BLUE-WINGED, MAGNOLIA, YELLOW, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACKBURNIAN, CANADA, plus BLACK-THROATED BLUE, and GREEN WARBLER
An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was photographed at Ashland Nature Center this week along with YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER. There was another YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER seen near Middle Run. LEAST FLYCATCHERS were reported at Middle Run, Ashland Nature Center, Fire Truck Pond, and Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. COMMON RAVEN was reported at the University of Delaware Star Campus, White Clay Creek and downstate in Smyrna. An early WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was photographed at Ashland Nature Center. VEERY were seen at Ashland Nature Center, White Clay Creek, and Middle Run. The first SWAINSON’S THRUSH of the season was seen at Lums Pond.
A high count of 46 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS was seen Saturday at Brandywine Creek State Park followed by 145 NIGHTHAWKS at Ashland Nature Center on Monday. Other NIGHTHAWKS sightings were from White Clay Creek, Middle Run, Port Penn, Cheswold, Seaford, Trap Pond State Park, and Cape Henlopen State Park. SANDHILL CRANES continue to be seen at Thousand Acre Marsh. NORTHERN HARRIER was seen at Port Penn impoundments.
A RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was photographed at Shearness Pool in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge yesterday. Other shorebirds included HUDSONIAN GODWIT and WHIMBREL, AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK-NECKED STILT, BLACK-BELLIED, SEMIPALMATED and AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, SHORT and LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, DUNLIN, plus WHITE-RUMPED, WESTERN, PECTORAL, and STILT SANDPIPER. An AMERICAN WOODCOCK was spotted walking along the auto tour near the visitor center this week. Long-legged waders included WHITE IBIS, LEAST BITTERN, TRICOLORED, YELLOW-CROWNED and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON plus SANDHILL CRANES. COMMON GALLINULE and SORA were reported at Shearness Pool. A pair of PAINTED BUNTINGS were photographed last week near the entrance to the Boardwalk Trail. These birds, including a molting juvenal may constitute the first breeding record for the state!
A pair of BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was found in the ag fields off Tub Mill Pond Road south of Frederica. These fields are west of Delaware Route 1 off Exit 83. Also reported were American Golden Plover and Pectoral Sandpiper. SEDGE WRENS continue along the Port Mahon Road this week. ROYAL TERNS were seen along the breakwater. RUDDY TURNSTONE and SPOTTED SANDPIPER were seen along the beach. BARRED OWL were reported at Killen’s Pond Strate Park.
Oyster Rocks Road in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge continues to be a hotbed of activity, including RED-NECKED and 5 WILSON’S PHALAROPE, along with BLACK-NECKED STILT, HUDSONIAN WHIMBREL, BAIRD’S. STILT, WESTERN, WHITE-RUMPED, and PECTORAL SANDPIPER, TRICOLORED HERON and over 200 WHITE IBIS. A pair of GULL-BILLED TERNS were photographed at the boat ramp. BLACK SKIMMER, CASPIAN, ROYAL, and LEAST TERNS were seen at the Dike Trail at Prime Hook, along with WILLET and WHITE IBIS.
ROSEATE, COMMON, LEAST, CASPIAN, ROYAL and BLACK TERN was seen at Cape Henlopen Point along with BLACK SCOTER, PIPING PLOVER, AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER, RUDDY TURNSTONE and WILSON’S STORM-PETREL in Cape Henlopen State Park. TRICOLORED HERON and over 200 WHITE IBIS were seen at Gordon’s Pond. WILSON’S STORM PETREL, BLACK and SANDWICH TERN, NORTHERN GANNET and a high count of 430 BROWN PELICANS were seen from the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.
A juvenal LONG-TAILED JAEGER was photographed flying up the beach at Indian River Inlet on Saturday, along with SANDWICH, BLACK, COMMON, ROYAL, and CASPIAN TERN. AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER and WILSON’S’ STORM-PETREL were seen flying offshore. WHITE IBIS, TRICOLORED and LITTLE BLUE HERON, plus BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON were seen at the south campground. GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was seen at the McCabe Nature Preserve near Milton. SUMMER TANAGER, WORM-EATING WARBLER, BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH, and RED-HEADED WOODPECKER were seen at Redden State Forest. SALTMARSH SPARROW was reported Assawoman Wildlife Area.
Delaware’s hawk watches resumed this week at Ashland Nature Center and Cape Henlopen State Park. Welcome to our two hawk counters David Brown and Emma Hovland. BROAD-WINGED HAWKS are already migrating through Ashland. A PARASITIC JAEGER was seen from the Cape Henlopen Hawk Watch on Wednesday.
Thanks to all the people that make the Birdline possible, including, Milton Collins, Dave Cadogen, Ben Tebbens, Jim Austin-Cole, Lenn Jackson, Martin Selzer, Russell Rogers, Marshall Mumford, Bri Morgan, Kathy Leedom, Megan Kasprzak, Joe Sebastiani, Pam Orris, David Thomas, Ed Patten, Ellie McDonald, Greg Daromne, Warren Crabb, Jen Driscoll, Daryl Sharman, Sam VanHorne, Kevin Bronson, Frank Rohrbacher, John Carter, Phil Misseldine, Rod Murray, Chris Rankin, Kent Raymond, Carolyn Holland, Mary Braun, Sue Gruver, Rob Blye, Richard Julian, Greg Gough, Nancy Cummingham, , Chris and Karen Bennett, Will Krohn, Jim and Amy White, Barbara Jones, Kim Steininger, Judy Montgomery, Lana Glass, Ian Teaell, Ellie McDonald, John and Andy Dunn, Wendy Cesario, Joe Francis, Bruce Peterjohn, and Joe Swertinski. Special thanks to Joe Tricarico for list distribution to DOS members. Remember, Birdline needs your support. Please call your sightings to 302-792-9591. Thank you for your support. This! is Andy Ednie wishing you good birding!
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Autumn Heil, Carol Spease, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Meghan Donnelly, Mike Fowles
Visitors: 10
Weather: Sunny becoming mostly cloudy in the late afternoon. Moderate NW winds weakening by the afternoon. Quite warm in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: The best flight so far this season. Osprey were most numerous with 19. A moderate Buteo flight including 5 Broad-winged Hawks. Five kestrels. The season's first Merlin and Northern Harrier came through in the last hour.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Considerable clouds early with some decrease later. High around 80F. Winds N at 5-10mph. A good wind direction. The clouds may delay the thermals a bit, but I would expect some migration and a pleasant day.
SUNDAY: Partly cloudy. High 78F. Winds NE at 5-10mph. Decent conditions again.
MONDAY: Generally sunny with a few afternoon clouds. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Moderate conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Meghan Donnelly
Visitors: 6
Weather: Overnight thunderstorms and showers ended with the sky partially clearing by the start time of the count. Becoming overcast again as rain went west, then rapid clearing in the afternoon. A bit cool with a nice breeze in the morning, becoming quite hot in the late afternoon. The wind was light from the southwest. Overall a pleasant day except for the final few hours.
Raptor Observations: Ospreys were the primary migrant again, picking up nicely in the afternoon for a total of 15. Two adult Broad-winged Hawks migrated. An immature Red-shouldered Hawk also migrated high overhead with an Osprey. Good conditions for local raptors to be active. A Black Vulture with yellow patagial tag was too high to read.
Non-raptor Observations: Common Nighthawk, 8 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, 2 Common Ravens, 4 Purple Martins, 4 Bobolinks, 20 Brown-headed Cowbirds, good number of Common Green Darners plus some Black Saddlebags and Wandering Gliders, Pipevine Swallowtail, Eastern Comma, Painted Lady, Red Admiral, 2 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S389465941
Predictions: TOMORROW: Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds NW at 5-10mph. Similar to today but with a more favorable wind direction. I would expect similar or slightly better results than today.
SATURDAY: Intervals of clouds and sun. High around 80F. Winds N at 5-10mph. A favorable wind should encourage some migration.
SUNDAY: Partly cloudy. High 77F. Winds NE at 5-10mph. Another favorable wind. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Barb Root, Ian Teaell, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass
Visitors: 8
Weather: Overcast with light easterly winds. Warm and humid but much more comfortable than yesterday. Steady rain moved in and ended the count at 12pm EST.
Raptor Observations: Overall poor conditions. Nine Ospreys were the main raptor highlight of the day along with the first Broad-winged Hawk of the season. Some local raptor activity including two Cooper's Hawks and an adult Bald Eagle.
Predictions: TOMORROW: Cloudy early becoming partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 89F. Winds WSW at 5-10mph. Another hot day, though the cloud cover may help. A less favorable wind direction. There should be some raptor activity, especially if we get some sun, but probably not a lot of migration.
FRIDAY: Intervals of clouds and sunshine. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds WNW at 5-10mph. A more favorable wind direction may bring some migrants.
SATURDAY: Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 81F. Winds N at 5-10mph. Pretty good conditions, though still early in the season so totals may be low. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Ian Stewart, Ian Teaell, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass
Visitors: 9
Weather: Mostly sunny with cloudy periods associated with brief showers. Hot! Temps reaching around 90F. Light WSW winds.
Raptor Observations: First migrant of the season was an Osprey, one of four for the day. Other migrants were two Bald eagles, a Cooper's Hawk, an American Kestrel, and a Red-tailed Hawk. Nice day for thermals when the sun was out so there were a good number of local raptors soaring around. One distant Red-tailed Hawk had a tail that looked mostly white on the topside, but it never came close enough to really see what was going on.
Hawk watch: Common Nighthawk, 2 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, 2 Shorebird sp., OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, 3 Bobolinks, 2 American Redstarts, 4 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S388959244
Predictions: TOMORROW: Cloudy. A stray shower possible. High 79F. Winds E at 5-10mph. Could be some raptor activity but overall less favorable conditions and very early in the season so not much migrating yet anyway.
THURSDAY: Cloudy then partly cloudy. A stray shower possible. High 88F. Winds WSW at 5-10mph. Overall similar to today.
FRIDAY: Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 86F. Winds NW at 5-10mph. The favorable northerly wind could get some birds moving. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/1/26 6:31 am From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] Hawk watch season starts today!
1. Hi everyone, 2. 3. September marks the start of hawk watch season, where professional hawk counters and skilled volunteers record the numbers of a variety of hawks, vultures, falcons and eagles as they pass through Delaware on their southward migration. These data are important for assessing population trends among species and their migration routes and timing. There are two long-time hawk watches in Delaware resulting from a partnership between DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, the Delaware Ornithological Society and the Delaware Nature Society, with support from several generous donors. 4. 5. One count takes place from the hawk watch platform at Cape Henlopen State Park (counter Emma Hovland) and the other from hawk watch hill at Ashland Nature Center in Hockessin (counter David Brown). These sites are at opposite ends of the state and positioned on different migratory routes so the hawk composition at each one is quite different. The hawk watches run 7 days a week from September 1st to November 30th, currently from 9am to 4pm. They are free to visit with no need to register (though you have to pay to enter Cape Henlopen state park if you do not have a pass). Hawk watches are open to all ages and levels of experience with beginners welcome. They are a great place to learn about hawks and how to identify different species, and both sites are excellent places for seeing lots of other kinds of birds passing overhead or in the nearby vegetation or on the sea. The company is very friendly and both are beautiful places to relax and watch wildlife. Just bring something to eat and drink, maybe a hat, and perhaps a friend or two! 6.
Enjoy the hawks, Ian Stewart Delaware Nature Society
Date: 9/1/26 5:06 am From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] Free bird walks with Delaware Nature Society this fall
Hi everyone,
The Delaware Nature Society's free fall bird walks start today and run through October.
We meet on Tuesdays at 8am in the parking lot of the Middle Run birding trail off Possum Hollow Road near TriState bird rescue in Newark, Delaware.
We meet on Sundays at 8am at Bucktoe Creek Preserve (432 Sharp Rd, Avondale Pennsylvania). Note that this is a private preserve but is open for the Sunday bird walks.
The walks are open to all regardless of age and experience, and beginners are welcome. Expect to walk 1 or 2 miles with some gentle hills.For more details check out our website;
Date: 8/30/26 12:51 pm From: James Tyler Bell <00000085b810a3aa-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: [de-birds] Rufous ID help
You should post them to "What's This Bird?" by ABA on Facebook. Sheri Williamson, the author of the Peterson's Hummingbirds book, is usually pretty quick to ID birds for people!
Tyler Bell
<jtylerbell...>
California, Maryland
On Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 03:46:42 PM EDT, bentebbens <00002725b9ac5ff3-dmarc-request...> wrote:
I'm not sure, but I think we've had a Rufous Hummingbird the last two days. I was able to grab a few shots of it and put together a short compilation video to hopefully help in identifying it. Any help is greatly appreciated in identifying it. I posted them to my Facebook page if you get a chance. Thanks in advance, God bless, Ben Tebbens of Longneck, DE. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C3VU1BEjL/
Date: 8/30/26 12:45 pm From: bentebbens <00002725b9ac5ff3-dmarc-request...> Subject: [de-birds] Rufous ID help
I'm not sure, but I think we've had a Rufous Hummingbird the last two days. I was able to grab a few shots of it and put together a short compilation video to hopefully help in identifying it. Any help is greatly appreciated in identifying it. I posted them to my Facebook page if you get a chance. Thanks in advance, God bless, Ben Tebbens of Longneck, DE. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C3VU1BEjL/
Date: 8/28/26 4:58 pm From: Andrew Ednie <000006be14ba5998-dmarc-request...> Subject: [de-birds] RBA: Birdline Delaware, August 28th, 2026
RBA * Delaware * Statewide * August 28, 2026 * DEST 26.08.28
*Birds mentioned BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING DUCK Northern Pintail Surf Scoter Black Scoter Ruddy Duck Common Nighthawk Virginia Rail Sandhill Crane American Oystercatcher Black-necked Stilt American Avocet Black-bellied Plover American Golden Plover Semipalmated Plover Piping Plover Hudsonian Whimbrel Hudsonian Godwit Willet Short-billed Dowitcher Long-billed Dowitcher Ruddy Turnstone Red Knot Dunlin Sanderling Western Sandpiper White-rumped Sandpiper BAIRD’S SANDPIPER Pectoral Sandpiper Stilt Sandpiper BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER Wilson’s Phalarope Red-necked Phalarope Black Tern Least Tern ROSEATE TERN Common Tern SANDWICH TERN Caspian Tern Royal Tern Black Skimmer Wilson’s Storm-Petrel Brown Pelican Least Bittern Black-crowned Night Heron Yellow-crowned Night heron Little Blue Heron Tricolored Heron Glossy Ibis White Ibis Barn Owl Barred Owl Red-headed Woodpecker OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER Least Flycatcher Willow Flycatcher YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER Eastern Warbling Vireo Yellow-throated Vireo Common Raven Cliff Swallow Sedge Wren Veery Grasshopper Sparrow Eastern Meadowlark Bobolink Ovenbird Louisiana Waterthrush Northern Waterthrush Worm-eating Warbler American Redstart Black and White Warbler Blue-winged Warbler BLUE-WINGED x GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER Tennessee Warbler Northern Parula Northern Yellow Warbler Chestnut-sided Warbler Magnolia Warbler Cape May Warbler CERULEAN WARBLER Blackburnian Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Canada Warbler Summer Tanager Dickcissel Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Hotline: Birdline Delaware Date: August 28, 2026 To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE) Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>) Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern New Jersey, Maryland
For Friday, August 28th this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Greenville. The Birdline is sponsored by the Delaware Ornithological Society (DOS). Statements made on the Birdline do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsors. This is Andy Ednie, glad to be with you. The unofficial Delaware Annual List increased to 315 species with three new addition this week.
A fall plumaged CERULEAN WARBLER was photographed on Sunday near the sandpit at Ashland Nature Center. Additionally, a BREWSTER’S WARBLER, the hybrid of BLUE-WINGED x GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER was also found in the same area. A MOURNING WARBLER was found yesterday at Cooper’s Crossing along Route 9 in the Port Penn impoundments of the Augustine Wildlife Area. CAPE MAY WARBLER was found in a yard near Port Penn and at Red Mill Pond near Lewes. VEERY was also reported from this latter site. BLACKBURNIAN WARBLERS were reported at White Clay Creek State Park, First State National Historical Park – Brandywine Unit, and Brandywine Creek State Park. A late lingering LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH was found along the White Clay Creek above Krapf’s. TENNESSEE WARBLER was reported at White Clay and Glasgow. A total of 21 species of warbler were reported this week including OVENBIRD, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, AMERICAN REDSTART, NORTHERN PARULA, plus WORM-EATING, BLACK AND WHITE, BLUE-WINGED, ! MAGNOLIA, YELLOW, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, and CANADA WARBLER
An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was reported in a yard near Townsend this week. Additionally, 4 species of eastern Empidonax flycatcher were seen this week. Sightings were: YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER near Middle Run Natural Area and Summit Bridge. WILLOW FLYCATCHER at the Fire Truck Pond, along with LEAST FLYCATCHER. Other LEAST FLYCATCHER reports were from White Clay Creek and Auburn Valley State Park. COMMON RAVEN was reported at the University of Delaware Ag Farm. Both YELLOW-THROATED and WARBLING VIREO were found at Ashland Nature Center. The first ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK of the season was seen at First State. The peak count of COMMON NIGHTHAWKS this week were 7 on Sunday at Brandywine Creek. Other NIGHTHAWK sightings were from Ashland Nature Center, Newark Reservoir, Middle Run, Smyrna and Cape Henlopen.
A pair of BLACK TERNS were seen along the Delaware River during the monthly Heron survey on Wednesday evening. The heron count found 141 LITLE BLUE, 20 SNOWY and 118 GREAT EGRETS. RUDDY DUCK and PIED-BILLED GREBE were seen at Port Penn impoundments. SANDHILL CRANE was reported at the Augustine Creek Causeway. GRASSHOPPER SPARROW and EASTERN MEADOWLARK were found at the Dog Training Area in the western section of the C&D Canal Wildlife Area
A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was photographed at the sandbar opposite the Lynn Frink Tower at Shearness Pool in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge yesterday. A WILSON’S PHALAROPE was seen at the north end of Raymond Pool. HUDSONIAN GODWIT, AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK-NECKED STILT, BLACK-BELLIED, SEMIPALMATED and AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, SHORT and LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, DUNLIN, plus WHITE-RUMPED, WESTERN, PECTORAL, and STILT SANDPIPER continue to be seen at Raymond Pool. The first NORTHERN PINTAIL of the season was reported this week. Long-legged waders included WHITE IBIS, TRICOLORED, YELLOW-CROWNED and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON plus SANDHILL CRANES. A BLACK TERN was reported on Sunday. CASPIAN TERN and BLACK SKIMMER were seen at Leatherbury Flats. BARN OWL, BOBOLINK, and WORM-EATING WARBLER were reported.
A flock of 9 BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING DUCKS were seen at the pond along Route 9 south of Little Creek. SEDGE WRENS continue along the Port Mahon Road this week. ROYAL and COMMON TERNS were seen along the breakwater there. VIRGINIA RAIL and PIED-BILLED GREBE were seen at Little Creek tower. BARRED OWL and LEAST BITTERN were reported at Killen’s Pond Strate Park. BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH was found along the Big Stone Beach Road in Milford Neck Wildlife Area.
The first BAIRD’S SANDPIPER of the year was reported yesterday at Oyster Rocks Road in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Oyster Rocks has been a hotbed of activity, including RED-NECKED and 5 WILSON’S PHALAROPE, along with BLACK-NECKED STILT, HUDSONIAN WHIMBREL, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, TRICOLORED HERON and over 200 WHITE IBIS. BLACK SKIMMER, CASPIAN, ROYAL, and LEAST TERNS were seen at the Dike Trail at Prime Hook. Shorebirds reported at Prime Hook headquarters included AMERICAN AVOCET, RUDDY TURNSTONE and RED KNOT. AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER was seen flying past Broadkill Beach.
ROSEATE, COMMON, LEAST, ROYAL and BLACK TERN was seen at Cape Henlopen Point along with SURF and BLACK SCOTER, PIPING PLOVER and WILSON’S STORM-PETREL in Cape Henlopen State Park. A late CLIFF SWALLOW was seen along the dunes at the Breakwater Harbor. BROWN PELICAN and COMMON LOON were seen offshore. MARBLED GODWIT, WHIMBREL, “western” WILLET, plus GLOSSY and 220 WHITE IBIS were seen at Gordon’s Pond. SANDWICH TERNS were seen at Indian River Inlet.
A DICKCISSEL was photographed at the McCabe Nature Preserve near Milton. SUMMER TANAGER, WORM-EATING WARBLER, and RED-HEADED WOODPECKER were seen at Redden State Forest. Another RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was reported Assawoman Wildlife Area. There was a count of 10 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS along the Camp Arrowhead Road on Angola Neck denoting a remarkable increase of the species in lower Delaware.
Thanks to all the people that make the Birdline possible, including Scott Barnes, George Armstead, Megan Kasprzak, Joe Sebastiani, Pam Orris, Isabel Palmer, David Thomas, Ed Patten, Ellie McDonald, Christian Schiebe, Warren Crabb, Paul Beckman, Karen Hockgraf, Tom Donahue, Jen Driscoll, Daryl Sharman, Sam VanHorne, Kevin Bronson, Frank Rohrbacher, John Carter, Phil Misseldine, Rod Murray, Chris Rankin, Kent Raymond, Carolyn Holland, Mary Braun, Sue Gruver, Rob Blye, Richard Julian, Alice Mohrman, Sally Fintel, Greg Gough, Nancy Goggin, Nancy Cummingham, Debbie Blair, Chris and Karen Bennett, Anthony Gonzon, Will Krohn, Jim and Amy White, Barbara Jones, Kim Steininger, Holly Merker, Judy Montgomery, John and Andy Dunn, Wendy Cesario, Joe Francis, Bruce Peterjohn, and Joe Swertinski. Special thanks to Joe Tricarico for list distribution to DOS members. Remember, Birdline needs your support. Please call your sightings to 302-792-9591. Thank you for your support. This is Andy Ed! nie wishing you good birding!
