Date: 3/28/26 7:28 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following were seen on the morning bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol, PA.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, USMar 28, 2026 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Protocol: Traveling
Participants: 41.0 mile(s)
31 species
Canada Goose 6
Wood Duck 5
Gadwall 9
Mallard 3
Mourning Dove 3
Great Blue Heron 1
Osprey 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 4
Northern Flicker 3
Blue Jay 7
Carolina Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 6
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 1
Golden-crowned Kinglet 6
White-breasted Nuthatch 2
Red-breasted Nuthatch 2
American Robin 25
House Sparrow 3
House Finch 1
American Goldfinch 4
Dark-eyed Junco 2
White-throated Sparrow 15
Song Sparrow 2
Swamp Sparrow 2
Red-winged Blackbird 20
Rusty Blackbird 4
Pine Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 3
Northern Cardinal 2
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 27, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers:
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning, clouds slowly cleared throughout the afternoon. N wind the whole day, 13-15mph in the morning, 5-8mph in the afternoon. Temperature rose as the clouds cleared with a low of 5.6℃ and a high of 10.9℃.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA spotted today.
Weak thermals and lower N wind in the afternoon made for a slow day with just 5 RTHA and 3 BAEA.
A slow day for other birds as well with just an AMRO, BHCB, and a few AGOL flyovers.
Predictions: Sunny with moderate NW winds in the morning and moderate WNW winds in the afternoon. Stronger thermals and NW winds might make for a better day than today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/27/26 3:25 pm From: Russ States <pelagics202...> Subject: Re: Erie County, Presque Isle Hawk Watch for March 26, 2026
I had 112 at PISP some years ago
On Thursday, March 26, 2026, Lee Simpson <
<0000013640a8a13a-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> I have never gotten as many ticks as I did at Presque Isle some years
> ago!! It was Epic!Lee Simpson, Berks Co.
> On Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12:18:31 PM MST, SCOTT WEIDENSAUL <
> <000001343b2dd726-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
> Jerry,
>
> Um, just how thorough was that tick search? I’m trying to avoid certain
> mental images…
>
> Scott Weidensaul
> Milton, NH (formerly Schuylkill Co.)
>
> > On Mar 26, 2026, at 2:20 PM, <jerrymcw...> <0000001b5c226889-dmarc-
> <request...> wrote:
> >
> > Presque Isle
> > Erie, Pennsylvania, USA
> > Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2026
> > -------------------------------------------------------------------
> >
> > Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total
> > ------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
> > Black Vulture 0 1 1
> > Turkey Vulture 989 5747 5750
> > Osprey 0 1 1
> > Bald Eagle 3 27 30
> > Northern Harrier 0 1 1
> > Sharp-shinned Hawk 5 18 18
> > Cooper's Hawk 0 10 11
> > American Goshawk 0 0 0
> > Red-shouldered Hawk 1 41 41
> > Broad-winged Hawk 0 0 0
> > Red-tailed Hawk 9 105 110
> > Rough-legged Hawk 0 1 3
> > Golden Eagle 0 1 1
> > American Kestrel 1 22 22
> > Merlin 0 1 1
> > Peregrine Falcon 1 2 2
> > Unknown Accipitrine 1 2 2
> > Unknown Buteo 0 7 7
> > Unknown Falcon 0 1 1
> > Unknown Eagle 0 0 0
> > Unknown Raptor 0 0 0
> > Short-eared Owl 0 1 1
> >
> > Total: 1010 5989 6003
> > ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> >
> > Observation start time: 08:00:00
> > Observation end time: 12:00:00
> > Total observation time: 4 hours
> >
> > Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
> >
> > Observers: Julie Leonard
> >
> > Visitors:
> > Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Only one visitor, a police officer
> > stopping by for us to give him a tick search since he picked 13 off of
> his
> > clothes while doing an on-duty search in a grassy area.
> >
> >
> > Weather:
> > Clear becoming cloudy with SW wind early switching around to the WNW by
> > 1000 hours EST. Unseasonably warm.
> >
> > Raptor Observations:
> > Conditions were good early then deteriorating through the morning as the
> > wind shifted to a lake breeze pushing the vulture flight inland at a much
> > higher altitude. Still very few hawks. One local Cooper's Hawk
> >
> > Non-raptor Observations:
> > Great Blue heron 2, Northern Flicker 8, Double-crested Cormorant 4,
> Eastern
> > Phoebe 1, Killdeer 1, Tree Swallow 1, Common Grackle, Red-winged
> Blackbird,
> > Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, Blue Jay 2, Rock Pigeon 2, Mourning
> > Dove, European Starling, Ring-billed and Herring gulls.
> >
> > Predictions:
> > Much colder with clouds in the AM then clearing, but with NNE wind. No
> > lakeshore flight likelyJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County,
> <Pa.jerrymcw...>
>
>
Raptor Observations: Many local turkey vultures with the first migrating bald eagles of the season.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 3/27/26 9:06 am From: Oscar Miller <aoscarmiller3...> Subject: White Turkey Vulture Butler
Folks in counties north of *Butler* County in western PA might watch for a striking white Turkey Vulture ph near Portersville. It has not been reported for a few days so it is probably heading north.
Date: 3/27/26 5:01 am From: Lisa Dziuban <dziubanlisa...> Subject: Tick spray
Thanks everyone for those tick spray recommendations! Last year it was bad, I’m hoping this cold winter might help in keeping the population down?
Lisa Dziuban
“Don’t let us make it tidy”, said Mary anxiously. “It wouldn’t seem like a secret garden if it was tidy”.
Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Secret Garden 1911
Date: 3/26/26 9:11 pm From: Jeff Holbrook <birdpany...> Subject: Re: tick tip
Just apply Bag Balm liberally. You will be fine. Honest. Cheap! Effective! Messy! But again, super effective.
-----Original Message----- From: Bird discussion list for Pennsylvania <PABIRDS...> On Behalf Of Denise Donmoyer Sent: Thursday, 26 March, 2026 18:29 To: <PABIRDS...> Subject: [PABIRDS] tick tip
Our local Conservation District recommends this stuff called Sawyer Spray that you spray on your clothing that is supposed to kill ticks and other insects on contact with your clothing. You spray it on and let it dry for 2 hrs. before wearing and it lasts for over a month and through several washings. I've been using it for 2 yrs. and haven't had a problem with ticks when I wear the sprayed clothing. It comes in a yellow spray bottle and you can get it on line or in outdoor stores.
Date: 3/26/26 6:58 pm From: Lee Simpson <0000013640a8a13a-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Erie County, Presque Isle Hawk Watch for March 26, 2026
I have never gotten as many ticks as I did at Presque Isle some years ago!! It was Epic!Lee Simpson, Berks Co.
On Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 12:18:31 PM MST, SCOTT WEIDENSAUL <000001343b2dd726-dmarc-request...> wrote:
Jerry,
Um, just how thorough was that tick search? I’m trying to avoid certain mental images…
Scott Weidensaul
Milton, NH (formerly Schuylkill Co.)
> On Mar 26, 2026, at 2:20 PM, <jerrymcw...> <0000001b5c226889-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
> Presque Isle
> Erie, Pennsylvania, USA
> Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2026
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total
> ------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
> Black Vulture 0 1 1
> Turkey Vulture 989 5747 5750
> Osprey 0 1 1
> Bald Eagle 3 27 30
> Northern Harrier 0 1 1
> Sharp-shinned Hawk 5 18 18
> Cooper's Hawk 0 10 11
> American Goshawk 0 0 0
> Red-shouldered Hawk 1 41 41
> Broad-winged Hawk 0 0 0
> Red-tailed Hawk 9 105 110
> Rough-legged Hawk 0 1 3
> Golden Eagle 0 1 1
> American Kestrel 1 22 22
> Merlin 0 1 1
> Peregrine Falcon 1 2 2
> Unknown Accipitrine 1 2 2
> Unknown Buteo 0 7 7
> Unknown Falcon 0 1 1
> Unknown Eagle 0 0 0
> Unknown Raptor 0 0 0
> Short-eared Owl 0 1 1
>
> Total: 1010 5989 6003
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Observation start time: 08:00:00
> Observation end time: 12:00:00
> Total observation time: 4 hours
>
> Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
>
> Observers: Julie Leonard
>
> Visitors:
> Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Only one visitor, a police officer
> stopping by for us to give him a tick search since he picked 13 off of his
> clothes while doing an on-duty search in a grassy area.
>
>
> Weather:
> Clear becoming cloudy with SW wind early switching around to the WNW by
> 1000 hours EST. Unseasonably warm.
>
> Raptor Observations:
> Conditions were good early then deteriorating through the morning as the
> wind shifted to a lake breeze pushing the vulture flight inland at a much
> higher altitude. Still very few hawks. One local Cooper's Hawk
>
> Non-raptor Observations:
> Great Blue heron 2, Northern Flicker 8, Double-crested Cormorant 4, Eastern
> Phoebe 1, Killdeer 1, Tree Swallow 1, Common Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird,
> Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, Blue Jay 2, Rock Pigeon 2, Mourning
> Dove, European Starling, Ring-billed and Herring gulls.
>
> Predictions:
> Much colder with clouds in the AM then clearing, but with NNE wind. No
> lakeshore flight likelyJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/26/26 3:38 pm From: Rob Blye <rwblye...> Subject: Re: tick tip
We have also used Sawyer on our shoes.
*better living through birds*
*Rob*
Robert W. Blye
34603 Doe Run
Lewes DE 19958-3332
302 945-8618
610 213-2413 mobile
On Thu, Mar 26, 2026, 6:36 PM Rob Blye <rwblye...> wrote:
> We use Insect Shield treatment on our field clothes.
>
> *better living through birds*
> *Rob*
> Robert W. Blye
> 34603 Doe Run
> Lewes DE 19958-3332
> 302 945-8618
> 610 213-2413 mobile
>
> On Thu, Mar 26, 2026, 6:28 PM Denise Donmoyer <
> <000001e955117cc8-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
>> Our local Conservation District recommends this stuff called Sawyer Spray
>> that you spray on your clothing that is supposed to kill ticks and other
>> insects on contact with your clothing. You spray it on and let it dry
>> for 2
>> hrs. before wearing and it lasts for over a month and through several
>> washings. I've been using it for 2 yrs. and haven't had a problem with
>> ticks when I wear the sprayed clothing. It comes in a yellow spray bottle
>> and you can get it on line or in outdoor stores.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Denise Donmoyer
>>
>> Sweet Arrow Lake
>>
>> Pine Grove, Schuylkill Co.
>>
>> <nightowl57...>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
Date: 3/26/26 3:36 pm From: Rob Blye <rwblye...> Subject: Re: tick tip
We use Insect Shield treatment on our field clothes.
*better living through birds*
*Rob*
Robert W. Blye
34603 Doe Run
Lewes DE 19958-3332
302 945-8618
610 213-2413 mobile
On Thu, Mar 26, 2026, 6:28 PM Denise Donmoyer <
<000001e955117cc8-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> Our local Conservation District recommends this stuff called Sawyer Spray
> that you spray on your clothing that is supposed to kill ticks and other
> insects on contact with your clothing. You spray it on and let it dry for
> 2
> hrs. before wearing and it lasts for over a month and through several
> washings. I've been using it for 2 yrs. and haven't had a problem with
> ticks when I wear the sprayed clothing. It comes in a yellow spray bottle
> and you can get it on line or in outdoor stores.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Denise Donmoyer
>
> Sweet Arrow Lake
>
> Pine Grove, Schuylkill Co.
>
> <nightowl57...>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Our local Conservation District recommends this stuff called Sawyer Spray that you spray on your clothing that is supposed to kill ticks and other insects on contact with your clothing. You spray it on and let it dry for 2 hrs. before wearing and it lasts for over a month and through several washings. I've been using it for 2 yrs. and haven't had a problem with ticks when I wear the sprayed clothing. It comes in a yellow spray bottle and you can get it on line or in outdoor stores.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Brian Hirt, Charlie Kahle, Ken Bowman, Tom Filip
Visitors: Tom Filip visited on his day off to witness the 200th Golden Eagle.
Weather: Wind SSW mostly 4-8 mph and partly cloudy in a.m., becoming SW 10-15 mph and cloudy in the p.m. It was the SSW winds that were productive, any flight largely ended when wind switched to SW. Without thermals, SW wind is usually unproductive.
Raptor Observations: GE(Ad): 959, 1104. This is the 7th year of 26 that the Golden Eagle count has reached 200 and the first such year since 2015. This has usually happened when there has been a cold and snowy period during the winter, which happened this past winter.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Winds NNW/N 10-12 mph, becoming partly cloudy, expect light migration ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>) Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/26/26 2:19 pm From: Rob Blye <rwblye...> Subject: Re: Erie County, Presque Isle Hawk Watch for March 26, 2026
My record for picking ticks off my body and clothes is 26. I was not
assisted in any way by either my male or female colleagues. That was in the
mid 1970s in Chester County, PA.
*better living through birds*
*Rob*
Robert W. Blye
34603 Doe Run
Lewes DE 19958-3332
302 945-8618
610 213-2413 mobile
On Thu, Mar 26, 2026 at 3:18 PM SCOTT WEIDENSAUL <
<000001343b2dd726-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> Jerry,
>
> Um, just how thorough was that tick search? I’m trying to avoid certain
> mental images…
>
> Scott Weidensaul
> Milton, NH (formerly Schuylkill Co.)
>
> > On Mar 26, 2026, at 2:20 PM, <jerrymcw...> <
> <0000001b5c226889-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> >
> > Presque Isle
> > Erie, Pennsylvania, USA
> > Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2026
> > -------------------------------------------------------------------
> >
> > Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total
> > ------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
> > Black Vulture 0 1 1
> > Turkey Vulture 989 5747 5750
> > Osprey 0 1 1
> > Bald Eagle 3 27 30
> > Northern Harrier 0 1 1
> > Sharp-shinned Hawk 5 18 18
> > Cooper's Hawk 0 10 11
> > American Goshawk 0 0 0
> > Red-shouldered Hawk 1 41 41
> > Broad-winged Hawk 0 0 0
> > Red-tailed Hawk 9 105 110
> > Rough-legged Hawk 0 1 3
> > Golden Eagle 0 1 1
> > American Kestrel 1 22 22
> > Merlin 0 1 1
> > Peregrine Falcon 1 2 2
> > Unknown Accipitrine 1 2 2
> > Unknown Buteo 0 7 7
> > Unknown Falcon 0 1 1
> > Unknown Eagle 0 0 0
> > Unknown Raptor 0 0 0
> > Short-eared Owl 0 1 1
> >
> > Total: 1010 5989 6003
> > ----------------------------------------------------------------------
> >
> > Observation start time: 08:00:00
> > Observation end time: 12:00:00
> > Total observation time: 4 hours
> >
> > Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
> >
> > Observers: Julie Leonard
> >
> > Visitors:
> > Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Only one visitor, a police officer
> > stopping by for us to give him a tick search since he picked 13 off of
> his
> > clothes while doing an on-duty search in a grassy area.
> >
> >
> > Weather:
> > Clear becoming cloudy with SW wind early switching around to the WNW by
> > 1000 hours EST. Unseasonably warm.
> >
> > Raptor Observations:
> > Conditions were good early then deteriorating through the morning as the
> > wind shifted to a lake breeze pushing the vulture flight inland at a much
> > higher altitude. Still very few hawks. One local Cooper's Hawk
> >
> > Non-raptor Observations:
> > Great Blue heron 2, Northern Flicker 8, Double-crested Cormorant 4,
> Eastern
> > Phoebe 1, Killdeer 1, Tree Swallow 1, Common Grackle, Red-winged
> Blackbird,
> > Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, Blue Jay 2, Rock Pigeon 2, Mourning
> > Dove, European Starling, Ring-billed and Herring gulls.
> >
> > Predictions:
> > Much colder with clouds in the AM then clearing, but with NNE wind. No
> > lakeshore flight likelyJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County,
> <Pa.jerrymcw...>
>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Greg Gdula
Visitors: Two
Weather: Mostly sunny, moderate WSW winds, visibility 20km, temps 13.7C to 18.2C
Raptor Observations: GE ad @ 10:50, 1 TV
Several local TVs and an RT flying S in the valley
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos, A goldfinches, A robins, E bluebirds, Tree swallows, M Dove, E Towhees N cardinals, Pileated, Red-bellied and Downy wp, A crows, C ravens, Blue jays
Predictions: Cloudy, winds NNE, rain showers likely in the morning, high temp near 4C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Date: 3/26/26 12:18 pm From: SCOTT WEIDENSAUL <000001343b2dd726-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Erie County, Presque Isle Hawk Watch for March 26, 2026
Jerry,
Um, just how thorough was that tick search? I’m trying to avoid certain mental images…
Scott Weidensaul
Milton, NH (formerly Schuylkill Co.)
> On Mar 26, 2026, at 2:20 PM, <jerrymcw...> <0000001b5c226889-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
> Presque Isle
> Erie, Pennsylvania, USA
> Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2026
> -------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total
> ------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
> Black Vulture 0 1 1
> Turkey Vulture 989 5747 5750
> Osprey 0 1 1
> Bald Eagle 3 27 30
> Northern Harrier 0 1 1
> Sharp-shinned Hawk 5 18 18
> Cooper's Hawk 0 10 11
> American Goshawk 0 0 0
> Red-shouldered Hawk 1 41 41
> Broad-winged Hawk 0 0 0
> Red-tailed Hawk 9 105 110
> Rough-legged Hawk 0 1 3
> Golden Eagle 0 1 1
> American Kestrel 1 22 22
> Merlin 0 1 1
> Peregrine Falcon 1 2 2
> Unknown Accipitrine 1 2 2
> Unknown Buteo 0 7 7
> Unknown Falcon 0 1 1
> Unknown Eagle 0 0 0
> Unknown Raptor 0 0 0
> Short-eared Owl 0 1 1
>
> Total: 1010 5989 6003
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Observation start time: 08:00:00
> Observation end time: 12:00:00
> Total observation time: 4 hours
>
> Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
>
> Observers: Julie Leonard
>
> Visitors:
> Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Only one visitor, a police officer
> stopping by for us to give him a tick search since he picked 13 off of his
> clothes while doing an on-duty search in a grassy area.
>
>
> Weather:
> Clear becoming cloudy with SW wind early switching around to the WNW by
> 1000 hours EST. Unseasonably warm.
>
> Raptor Observations:
> Conditions were good early then deteriorating through the morning as the
> wind shifted to a lake breeze pushing the vulture flight inland at a much
> higher altitude. Still very few hawks. One local Cooper's Hawk
>
> Non-raptor Observations:
> Great Blue heron 2, Northern Flicker 8, Double-crested Cormorant 4, Eastern
> Phoebe 1, Killdeer 1, Tree Swallow 1, Common Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird,
> Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, Blue Jay 2, Rock Pigeon 2, Mourning
> Dove, European Starling, Ring-billed and Herring gulls.
>
> Predictions:
> Much colder with clouds in the AM then clearing, but with NNE wind. No
> lakeshore flight likelyJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Only one visitor, a police officer stopping by for us to give him a tick search since he picked 13 off of his clothes while doing an on-duty search in a grassy area.
Weather: Clear becoming cloudy with SW wind early switching around to the WNW by 1000 hours EST. Unseasonably warm.
Raptor Observations: Conditions were good early then deteriorating through the morning as the wind shifted to a lake breeze pushing the vulture flight inland at a much higher altitude. Still very few hawks. One local Cooper's Hawk
Non-raptor Observations: Great Blue heron 2, Northern Flicker 8, Double-crested Cormorant 4, Eastern Phoebe 1, Killdeer 1, Tree Swallow 1, Common Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, Blue Jay 2, Rock Pigeon 2, Mourning Dove, European Starling, Ring-billed and Herring gulls.
Predictions: Much colder with clouds in the AM then clearing, but with NNE wind. No lakeshore flight likelyJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 25, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 9.17 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Brian Hirt, Charlie Kahle, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Partly sunny and warm with a low of 3.9℃ to a high of 16.8℃. Mostly S winds today with a shift to SSE from 10:00-13:00. Wind speed was variable but generally increased throughout the from 3mph in the morning to 15mph in the afternoon.
We had 3 GOEA in the middle of the day from 11:29 to 12:29. Afterwards it was slow until one last GOEA at 16:12. 2 of the GOEA we saw today left the ridge and headed straight N over the valley.
Other migrating raptors include 7 BAEA, 7 RTHA, 2 SSHA, 12 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
A few small flocks of CANG were seen in the morning as well as 3 COLO. Some decent passerine flyovers with an EAPH, HOLA, PISI, 13 AGOL, 19 AMRO, 3 COGR, and 3 BHCO.
Predictions: Partly cloudy with low SW winds in the morning and moderate winds in the afternoon. Decent conditions in the afternoon followed by today's good conditions could bring in a new group of GOEAs. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Predictions: moderate WSW winds;cloudy to partly cloudy with a chance of a morning shower;50-65F ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Visitors included Karen Gutowski, Brian Berchtold, and Brett Vath who helped spot birds, and his wife Rhonda.
Weather: Mostly cloudy with sun at times, south wind early becoming NE by afternoon and warmer than yesterday.
Raptor Observations: It was a slow start with few birds the first hour, then the flight picked up with vultures moving very close to the lake and often below the bluff, then as the day progressed, they gained altitude and when the wind shifted to the NE they moved well inland and nearly out of sight.
Non-raptor Observations: Highlight was a Common Raven circling high overhead as well as four westbound Sandhill Cranes. Double-crested Cormorant 33, Canada Goose 5, Wood Duck 2, American Crow, red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed cowbird, Tree Swallow 6, Killdeer 1, Herring and Ring-billed Gull, European Starling, Mourning Dove, Rock Pigeon, and American Robin
Predictions: Maybe a good day if there are birds left in the pipeline, since it will be warmer with SSW, some clouds, then rain in the evening.
Jerry McWillams Erie, Erie County, Pa. <jerrymcw...>
Like last year, our Seneca Rocks volunteers that install and monitor owl nest boxes were out and about the beginning of March, and unbelievably they found another saw-whet in a nest box on March 4. Last year in Clarion Co we had two active nest boxes, but we did not detect them until early April.
Yesterday we went back to the box, located (no specifics) in Oil Creek State Park, and the bird was still there, tucked down over the nest box bedding tight as we quickly opened the box and got a photo. No eggs were visible beneath the bird but given that it is still present, and in good habitat, I feel safe in saying that it is likely a female on eggs. So once again, we will continue to monitor the activity and hope for the best. I thought it was too good to be true that we would have another nesting owl but I really hope that this one succeeds for another great breeding record for the atlas !
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 24, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Brian Hirt, Charlie Kahle, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Sunny throughout the day. A little chilly in the morning with a low of -1.4℃ but it warmed up quickly with a high of 15.5℃. NW winds the whole morning shifting to SW in the afternoon. Wind speed was generally a low 2-5mph throughout the day with a few somewhat stronger gusts up to 8mph.
Today was slow and spotting was difficult as the few raptors we saw were high and distant. Thankfully 1 GOEA took pity on us and flew through lower over the ridge at the end of the day giving us some nice looks as it soared.
Other migrating raptors include 2 RTHA, 1 OSPR, and 3 TUVU.
A quiet day for passerines with just 1 AGOL flyover and a few local birds.
Predictions: Low SSE/SE wind in the morning shifting to moderate S winds in the afternoon, mostly cloudy throughout the day. S winds are typically good so as long as the wind speed is decent we should see some GOEA and other raptors tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers: Greg Gdula, Nancy Ott
Visitors: Bob & Wanda Wilson, Dick Akers, Jack Gilbert. Greg Gdula and Nancy Ott helped with spotting
Weather: The day started with a cold west wind and temperature at -7 (c) The winds shifted to ESE with a 10% cloud cover. Visibility was clear up to 40 (km). The temperature did not improve much from-7 to 1.4 (c)
Raptor Observations: 11 raptors counted for the day, including 2 turkey vultures, 1 sharpie,and 8 red tail hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: bc chicadee, tufted titmouse, blue birds, robins, cardinals, ravens, crows , and local tv's. doves, and juncos.
Predictions: Clear and cold ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Observation start time: 13:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 1.83 hours
Compiler: David Barber
Counters: Diolinda Mundoza, Eli Hevalow, Ezra Murray, Zachary Underwoood
Weather: Clear skies NW winds (variable)
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard was the primary watcher today. Mark Lethaby stopped for a brief visit.
Weather: Mostly clear early then becoming variably cloudy. Mostly west wind with a switch to the SW briefly then to the WNW for the remainder of the day. It never got above 40 F.
Raptor Observations: At 0820 AM many vultures lifted off to the west of us, so there was a movement of over 160 birds in just a few minutes. The flight was fairly steady until around mid-day when birds drifted south and the flight shut down along the lake. The hawk flight was rather light, and most came through very high.
Non-raptor Observations: Cedar Waxwing 25, American Robin, American Crow, Common Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird, European Starling, Northern Flicker, and Pileated Woodpecker.
Predictions: Cloudy and warmer with SSE wind. Could be a good day, if the winds hold up.
Jerry McWilliams Erie, Erie County, Pa. <jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 23, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 11:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Dense fog at the lookout in the morning that cleared after a couple of hours. Cloudy for the rest of the day with a snow squall around 12:00. NW winds for most of the day at 20-22mph, slowing a little to 14-16mph at the end of the day. The temperature decreased in the afternoon from a high of 4.2℃ to a low of 2.1℃.
We were quite surprised to get this many GOEA today given the weather conditions. We spotted 2 GOEA at the same time, both soaring and gaining altitude before continuing, though they went different directions and left at different times. The first left the ridge and went N while the second continued NE along the ridge top. The last GOEA went past more quickly over the ridge top. All of the GOEA today were very high which was unusual with the lack of thermals and cloud cover.
Mostly a quiet day but we did have 4 COME flyover the ridge, as well as a flock of AGOL, and 1 PISI.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be sunny with low NW winds in the morning shifting to moderate SW later in the afternoon. If the wind speed increases, we should have a decent chance at seeing some GOEA tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Erika Bowman
Observers: Greg Gdula
Visitors: Greg Gdula, Charles & Barbara Kauric, more to come
Weather: Sunny, warm and breezy. Clouds where wispy but covered most of the sky.
Raptor Observations: Many local birds. At least 6 Turkey Vultures, 2 Red-tailed and a Cooper's Hawk kept flying around to give us something to watch.
Non-raptor Observations: M Dove, Red-bellied WP, Downy WP, N Flicker, E Phoebe, A Crow, C Raven, BC Chickadee, T Titmouse, Tree Swallow, WB Nuthatch, E Bluebird, N Cardinal
A butterfly! Maybe Red-spotted Purple
Predictions: Rain showers early with increasing winds and cloudy skies later in the day. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Morning high of 47F with temps falling to near 35. Winds NW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 50%. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Bowman (<dizzechick...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 22, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Deb Rittlemann, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Sophie, Adam
Weather: Today was the warmest day we have had this season with a low of 9.1℃ and a high of 30℃. It was a sunnier day than expected with little cloud cover for most of the day until around 14:00 when clouds started to roll in. By 14:00 it started to drizzle. Generally 8-12mph winds throughout the day, S winds early in the morning gradually shifting to W by 13:00.
The stronger than expected S and SSW wind this morning led to some good movement in the morning and mid-day. The first 2 GOEA of the day came through early and very low over the ridge, both stopping to soar for a bit and giving great views. The rest would come through a little higher but still gave everyone some nice looks. Our last GOEA of the day seemed to be spooked by our presence and turned around to head back the way it came. Usually when this happens we see it return soon after, but we never saw this one again. It is possible we missed it on its way back as many of the raptors were very high up at this point, but it is also very likely it simply cut out N when it was out of view.
Other migrating raptors include 4 BAEA, 16 RTHA, 1 SSHA, 2 COHA, 1 NOHA, 2 OSPR, and 8 TUVU. The 2 OSPR were the firsts of the season.
There was a nice early morning flight with a good variety of passerine flyovers including HOLA, AMPI, AGOL, and PUFI. We also had 4 COLO flyovers today, the firsts of the season.
Predictions: Cloudy in the morning with a possibility of light showers, mostly cloudy in the afternoon and moderate to strong NW winds throughout the day. In the past few days, it has been S/SSW winds that have brought good GOEA flights. It does not look like the winds will shift from NW but wind speed looks like it will be good which could bring in some GOEA. There will probably be less than in the past few days but there could always be an unexpected shift in weather to more favorable conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 10:45:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Doug Massey, Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard and Doug Massey assisted with the count.
Weather: Cloudy with light wind, and occasional drizzle, mild temps.
Raptor Observations: Very little moving along the lake for the first hour and 45 minutes then a big push of 93 TVs in one strung out group, a local Cooper's Hawk and one migrant Cooper's, then nothing else afterwards.
Non-raptor Observations: American Robin, American Crow, European Starling, red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Wood Duck 6, Canada Goose 4
Predictions: Cloudy and cold with snow flurries in the AM with NNW wind. No lake flight likely.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 21, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.75 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Alan, Mark
Congrats to the young couple that came up to the watch near the end of the day and got engaged.
Weather: Another day with very variable weather. The morning started off mostly cloudy with moderate NW winds up to 15mph. After 10:00, the clouds slowly started to clear but the winds sifted N and slowed down to just 1-3mph by 12:00. Around 15:30, the winds quickly shifted to SSW and it became cloudy again. A warm day throughout with a low of 7.0℃ and a high of 15℃.
The morning started off slow with only a RTHA and TUVU in the first 3 hours. Around 11:00, which was when the clouds started to clear, we started to see some more action with a few BAEA but still no GOEAs and the wind slowed and raptor activity came to a halt again. Our first GOEA, a juvenile, finally arrived a few hours later at 14:02. At 16:02, I spotted a very high GOEA coming over the ridge. The nearby kettle of TUVU also spotted it and they immediately cleared the area. They must have been really afraid of the incoming GOEA as I have never seen TUVU flap so hard and fast to get away from something like these were today. The last GOEA of the day, another juvenile, almost slipped past but luckily it chose to soar overhead momentarily and I was able to spot it before it moved on.
Other migrating raptors include 6 BAEA, 6 RTHA, 2 SSHA, 2 COHA, and 13 TUVU. The majority of these raptors came in the afternoon after 13:00.
2 BHCO and 1 EAPH were seen this morning, both firsts for the season. 2 HOLA were heard in the morning and 3 TRES were seen in the afternoon. A good number of AGOL flyovers were seen and heard throughout the day with a total of 26.
Predictions: Partly cloudy to mostly cloudy. SW winds shifting to WSW by the end of the day. Wind speed looks like it will start off low and gradually get stronger as the day goes on. Looks like a thunderstorm will roll in later in the day around 17:00. If the forecast holds true, I think the best chance of seeing GOEA will be later in the day when the winds shift direction and get stronger. It is possible some GOEAs will try to get through before the storm comes in. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers:
Visitors: River Rose, Breanna Brihell, Connor and Catherine Tompkins, George and Terri Berkheimer
Weather: The morning started with bright sun that was burning through the haze and strong winds from the west. The sun was intense and the winds changed to an east by the mid-afternoon. Warm and beautiful!
Raptor Observations: Bald Eagles: Sub IV 10:36, 10:37 Immature Golden Eagles: 2:13, 2:13 Both unaged, but not juveniles
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Goldfinch, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Common Raven, Dark-eyed Junco, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern Phoebe, Northern Cardinal, Northern Flicker, Tree Swallow, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch
Predictions: Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 81F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Date: 3/21/26 3:42 pm From: Randy Stringer <0000014328ddae02-dmarc-request...> Subject: Mercer County Black Vultures
Greetings, PA Birds List Serve members, I am writing to share a particularly noteworthy observation from my home in Grove City, which strongly reinforces the compelling trend of Black Vulture range expansion within our state. This evening, precisely at 6:15 PM, I witnessed an impressive movement of raptors directly over my property. Against the backdrop of the setting sun, a dynamic kettle formed, comprised of a diverse aerial contingent. Among them were three magnificent Bald Eagles, gracefully carving arcs in the sky, alongside a substantial gathering of thirty-one Turkey Vultures. What truly captivated my attention, however, was a very distinct group of five Black Vultures. These five individuals maintained an unusually tight, compact formation, their flight style noticeably different from the more haphazard, wobbling flight of the Turkey Vultures. Their disciplined cohesion made them instantly identifiable and quite prominent within the larger kettle. For personal context, my last recorded sighting of a Black Vulture in this immediate vicinity was back in January 2022. This evening's observation of a quintet, flying with such purposeful unity, suggests a significant and potentially more established presence in this northern locale. This continued northward advancement of Black Vultures is a fascinating ecological development, and I encourage fellow birders to remain vigilant and share their own sightings, especially from areas where these birds were historically less common. Best regards, Randy StringerGrove City, PA Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Date: 3/21/26 10:36 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following were seen or heard on the morning bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol, PA.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, US
Mar 21, 2026 7:30 AM - 9:45 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
31 species
Canada Goose 6
Wood Duck 7
Gadwall 5
Mallard 4
Mourning Dove 2
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Great Blue Heron 2
Turkey Vulture 3
Osprey 2
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 4
Northern Flicker 2
Blue Jay 3
American Crow 2
Fish Crow 1
Carolina Chickadee 4
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 12
White-breasted Nuthatch 2
Red-breasted Nuthatch 2
Carolina Wren 3
European Starling 4
American Robin 15
House Sparrow 6
American Goldfinch 2
Dark-eyed Junco 4
White-throated Sparrow 18
Song Sparrow 3
Red-winged Blackbird 12
Rusty Blackbird 3
Northern Cardinal 4
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 2.25 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers: Jim Rocco
Visitors: 2
Weather: 100% cloud cover. Light to Moderate wind out of the SW. Temperature 14 degrees C. Visibiity 44 km. Watch ended at 11:30 AM EST with rain shower beginning.
Raptor Observations: 3 migrating turkery vultures. 1 non migrating red-tail, and several nonmigrating TVs.
Non-raptor Observations: raen, tufted titmouse junco, red-bellied woodpecker, black-capped chicadee, tree swallow, mourning doves. 3 deer in valley field.
Predictions: high 60 degrees F. Cloudy in morning, with chance of rain. Some sun in the afternoon. Wind 5-10 mph out of the NW in AM and W in PM.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bstewart...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 20, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano, Noah Hart, Ron Crandall
Weather: The early morning was sunnier and windier than expected and warmer than the past week with a low of 8.9℃ and a high of 15.1℃. The clouds started to roll in quickly but the wind speed stayed consistent at 8-10mph throughout the day. Wind direction started S, shifted to SSW by 10:00, and then SW by 12:00. The rain started at 12:30 with a light drizzle and started to get a little heavier after 1:00 when I ended the count for the day.
Another unexpectedly good day, I certainly did not expect to get another double-digit GOEA day this season. Moderate S winds and sunny skies early in the morning undoubtedly helped. The action started at 09:48 with our first bird coming over the ridge and 3 more spotted within the next 20 minutes. The skies became mostly cloudy afterwards and the action would slow a bit, with Noah spotting our 5th GOEA at 10:42. 5 more GOEA flew through afterwards, with the last at 12:01, about half an hour before it started to rain. The GOEA today were all lower and closer to the ridge than they have been in the past few days, and some even stopped to soar momentarily, giving us some good looks.
Other migrating raptors include 8 RTHA, 2 SSHA, 2 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
We had a DCCO flyover today, the first of the season. It was otherwise quiet in terms of other flyovers.
Predictions: Low to moderate NNW/NW winds, mostly cloudy in the morning and partly cloudy in the afternoon. NW wind can sometimes be good and it seems like there are still a good number of eagles left to come through despite being past the peak migration season. Given that we have had a steady flow of GOEA the past few days, I imagine we will see a few tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Raptor Observations: lots of local turkey vultures
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 09:15:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: Sam Stull
Weather: Cloudy with strong SW wind and a bit warmer than yesterday. Rain started so the short flight was shut down.
Raptor Observations: A burst of TVs for about 20 minutes ahead of the rain. Highlight was a Black Vulture that passed by.
Non-raptor Observations: Several American Crows, American Robin, Double-crested Cormorant 3, Mourning Dove, Rock Pigeon, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Eastern Bluebird 1, Ring-billed and Herring gulls, European Starling
Predictions: Cooler with NE winds and cloudy. I don't expect a lakeshore flight.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 19, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Unexpectedly variable conditions throughout the day. Cloudy when I first arrived and for most of the day. Around 11:00 the clouds started to clear and there was about an hour of mostly clear skies around 13:30-14:30. Wind direction started S, shifting to SSW at 10:00, SW at 13:00, and then back to S at 14:00. Wind speed was generally 6-8 in the morning, rising a little to 10-12mph at 13:00 and then falling again 3-5mph by the end of the day. Low of -1.2℃ and a high of 12.4℃.
A surprisingly good day late in the season likely due to both the unexpected shift in weather conditions in the afternoon and the good conditions we had yesterday afternoon. The GOEAs today were almost as variable as the weather conditions. Our first GOEA at 13:38 was a sub-adult soaring on the S side of the ridge. The next one at 13:52 was an adult and did not stick around, gliding quickly and leaving the ridge right away while heading straight N over the valley. At 14:36 another adult came through, this time sticking to the ridge top and soaring briefly before moving on. Our last 2 at the end of the day, an unknown age at 15:20 and another sub-adult at 15:34, came through on the S side of the ridge after the clouds rolled back in. Their flying was noticeably more labored without strong wind or thermals and they were likely looking for a place to roost for the night.
Other migrating raptors include 1 immature BAEA and 1 female NOHA. The NOHA is only our second of the season.
We had a very bizarre but very fun MUSW flyover today, a first for the site ever. We first heard its strange sounding wingbeats and then saw it high and heading NNW. For those interested I've uploaded a short audio clip of the wingbeats onto eBird. We also had a GBHE at the end of the day, the first I've seen at the site this season.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be mostly cloudy with rain later in the afternoon and SSW/SW winds. It doesn't look like it will be a good day, but there is always a chance there could be a brief shift in weather like today that could lead to better conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 11:00:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: Mary Birdsong and Karen
Weather: variably cloudy and cool with west wind
Raptor Observations: A few vultures and a kestrel, flying rathe high.
Non-raptor Observations: American Robin, Ring-billed and Herring gulls, American Crow, European Starling
Predictions: Winds out of the SSW with rain arriving about mid-day. Maybe some birds will move before the rain arrives. Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos, A goldfinches, E bluebirds, N cardinals, Pileated, Red-bellied and Downy wp, A crows, C ravens, Blue jays
Predictions: Mostly cloudy, SW winds, high temp near 14C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Date: 3/19/26 6:11 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: Project Feederwatch March 17-18
For 36 years I have been using Project Feederwatch sponsored by Cornell Ornithology Lab to document birds at our feeders. Here at our house on the ridge near Huntingdon where we have been for 13 years, we have had an up and down winter. This PF entry is over 2 days and counts must have 5 days in between.
This is the first year since we moved here that we have had Pileated Woodpeckers visit the suet feeders. They are no stranger to the yard as they have been busy on the trees, excavating several. And one day two were present although we did not see two during this two day period.
Two counts in January had 55 and 65 Purple Finch. This plunged to 8 in February but American Goldfinch soared with about 100 and with this most recent count, I tried to count and 300 was my best estimate. I could hear the loud sound of their chirping inside even with the house closed up. Cars going by at 40 feet away caused them to lift off nearly every time.
The Sapsucker has been present nearly every count. We rarely have Starlings but they started to visit at the end of February. Red-winged Blackbirds are on time too with the beginning of March and now Common Grackles and Brown-headed Cowbirds in mid-March. The Cowbirds hang around all year. However, the number of Common Grackles counted in previous Feederwatches has always been no more than 1! It seems as if a roving band has found us this time. There is a large number that nest about a mile away.
Dark-eyed Juncos were higher in January peaking at 100 and 220. The number has fallen since then.
Coopers Hawk has been only a few occasions.
Some days Greg fills the 5 tube feeders and 2 platform feeders twice a day and I wont even venture a number of how much we have spent on black oil sunflower seed and white millet.
21 species
Mourning Dove 22
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
Downy Woodpecker 2
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Blue Jay 2
American Crow 2
Black-capped Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Red-breasted Nuthatch 1
European Starling 8
Purple Finch 6
American Goldfinch 300 best estimate.
Dark-eyed Junco 55
White-throated Sparrow 1
Red-winged Blackbird 15
Brown-headed Cowbird 5
Common Grackle 50
Northern Cardinal 2
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 18, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers:
Visitors: Jeff
Weather: S winds throughout the day starting off very low at 1-3mph in the morning gradually rising to 8-10 mph by the end of the day. A bit chilly in the morning but warmer than yesterday with a low of -5℃ and a high of 2℃. Cloud cover varied throughout the day but was generally mostly cloudy in the morning and mostly sunny in the afternoon.
The day started off very slow with no migrating raptors in the morning. Weather conditions gradually improved later and finally an immature GOEA flew in at 15:31, soaring for a minute and giving nice looks before moving on. The next one at 15:40 glided through much more quickly. The last one at the 16:20 was lower than the last 2 and descending, a behavior I have seen in previous days where a GOEA was spotted in the last hour, probably looking for a place to roost for the night.
Other migrating raptors include 1 TUVU and 1 AMKE.
A flock of 5 AGOL were waiting for me in the trees when I arrived and a few more flew past throughout the morning. 1 PISI was heard. A RBNU was heard a couple of times in the morning and afternoon, the first I have heard at the site this season.
Predictions: Weak S winds in the morning shifting to SSW/SW later in the day. Cloudy throughout the day. S winds are generally good but weak winds and high cloud cover could prevent many raptors from coming through. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Rosemary McGlynn
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: light to moderate SE winds;valley haze early;sunny with high clouds then cloud cover increased in the PM; 17-27F
Raptor Observations: 2 migrants: 1 gorgeous subadult BE low & close at 10:23 and one RT. Also several non-migrating RTs
Non-raptor Observations: crows,ravens,TVs,red bellied wp,downy wp,bc chickadees,wb nuthatches,juncos,t titmice,E bluebirds,1 red-winged blackbird and one chipmunk
Predictions: cold Wed night; light to moderate WSW winds Thurs with temps 30-45F;cloudy with slight chance of rain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Date: 3/18/26 1:35 pm From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: RBA western Pennsylvania, 3 March 2026
RBA
*Pennsylvania
*Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania
*PAWE03.03.26
Highlights:
EURASIAN WIGEON (Armstrong and Mercer Counties)
MOTTLED DUCK (Allegheny County)
CACKLING GOOSE (Erie and Indiana Counties)
GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE
SNOW GOOSE
LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL
EVENING GROSBEAK (Somerset and Westmoreland Counties)
RED CROSSBILL (Warren County)
Contributors: Kimberly Berry, Dave Brooke, Michele Carlson, Adrian Fenton, Patience Fisher, Richard Love, Andrew Mack, Avi Marshall, Doug Massey, Jerry McWilliams, Elizabeth Nicholson, Theo Rickert, Jason Short, Kim Springer. Travis Suckow, Mike Weible, Sara Wetzel, Pam Williams.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 24 February 2026 through Tuesday, 3 March 2026
**This report is distributed by e-mail only. Compiler is not responsible for errors on websites who reproduce/reprint these reports. If you would like to receive western PA RBAs, contact AMYTARACIDO@ YAHOO.COM
Transcript-
NOTE: NORTHERN PINTAIL, TUNDRA SWAN, TEAL SP., PINE WARBLER continue to be reported.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
In Boyce-Mayview Park on 2/28, 1 MOTTLED DUCK (AF et. al.).
ARMSTRONG COUNTY:
On 2/26 north of Whitesburg, 2 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS (TR).
At the Rosston Boat Launch on 3/2, 1 EURASIAN WIGEON (DB).
BEAVER COUNTY:
On 3/3 at McRoberts Road marsh, 2 SANDHILL CRANES (JS).
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
At Millers Ponds on 2/28, 5 TRUMPETER SWANS (MC et. al.).
On 3/1 at Pymatuning State Park, 37 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE (PF).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle on 2/20, sightings included 1 CACKLING GOOSE (JMcW), 2 TRUMPETER SWANS (DM).
INDIANA COUNTY:
In Indiana on 2/27, 5 SANDHILL CRANES (AM).
On 3/1 at Yellow Creek State Park, 2 CACKLING GEESE (RL).
On 3/3 at Lake Margus, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (MW et. al.).
MERCER COUNTY:
On 2/26 in Sharpsville, 1 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (PW).
Along East Lake Road on 3/1, sightings included 118 CANVASBACKS, 73 REDHEADS (KS).
On 3/2 at Lake Wilhelm, 1 EURASIAN WIGEON (AF et. al.).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
Along Casselman Road on 2/26, 6 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE (SW).
VENANGO COUNTY:
On 2/27 near Bear Run Road, 4 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS (KB).
WARREN COUNTY:
On 2/27 near the Henry Mills trailhead, 2 RED CROSSBILLS (TS).
Over Swede Road on 2/28, 2 SNOW GEESE (EN).
WESTMORELAND COUNTY:
On 2/25 near Gross Road, 2 EVENING GROSBEAKS (AM).
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 11:45:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: Brian Berchtold
Weather: Mostly clear in the AM then becoming cloudy. Quite cold, but with a gentle SSW wind
Raptor Observations: Nothing moving, but it was a bit early in the day. A few vultures in the PM with the highlight being a high flying Short-eared Owl.
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, European Starling, Canada Goose
Predictions: Cloudy and a bit warmer, slight chance of rain WSW wind. Don't expect a flightJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Paa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 17, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Last night's storm left some snow on the ground and the temperature dropped with a low of -4.4℃ and a high of 0.7. Snow squalls came through several times, dramatically lowering visibility, but visibility was otherwise good in between. Winds were fairly consistent with W winds at 10-13mph for most of the day shifting to WNW in the last hour.
Our first GOEA gave us some great views but also difficulty in identifying it as first. A particularly small and dark individual, at first it was hunting close to the ridge and it was only when it flew near a RTHA and turned that we could get a proper sense of size and a better look at its plumage. After it went around the hawk watch once, it turned NE while gaining altitude and continued on its way. The second was larger and also seemed to be hunting briefly but did not stop like the first and continued NE.
Other migrating raptors include 2 RTHA and 1 AMKE. 1 of the migrating RTHA was escorted out by a territorial resident.
By far the most surprising passerine flyover of the season was the flock of Redpolls that flew over today, see the eBird checklist for more details. We also had some AGOL, PISI, a AMPI, and a HOLA, all heading S/SSE.
We also saw a pair of raven, 1 with what looked like a black feather in its mouth. Perhaps courtship behavior. A third raven tried to join in but the pair did not seem to be interested.
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with weak winds starting SW and shifting to S later. We might see a couple GOEA. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/16/26 6:54 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch (15 Mar 2026) 23 Raptors
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 15, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Butch Rittlemann, Connor Schmitt, Deb Rittlemann, Elizabeth Cathcurt, George Young, Nick Bolgiano, Nina Wolf, Peggy Wagoner, Phil Park, Randy Flament, Warren Wolf
Visitors: Becky Lengerich, Jean Lengerich, Matt Jackson, Amber Jackson, Bruce Woods, Percy Meriwether, Vinnie Arcana
Weather: A warmer day than the last few with a low of 4.8℃ and a high of 14.9℃. Mostly sunny with SE winds in the morning turning to mostly cloudy with SSE winds in the afternoon. Generally consistent wind speed of around 20mph but we did have some stronger gusts up to 30mph in the afternoon.
Less action than expected today despite seemingly perfect conditions. The 4 GOEA that came through today were a little distant and somewhat difficult to view. No raptors were spotted after the last GOEA at 12:29, making for a slow afternoon.
Other migrating raptors include 8 BAEA, 6 RTHA, 1 RSHA, 1 SSHA, and 3 TUVU. The 8 BAEA were a high count for the season. 6 of the BAEA were immature.
The quietest day we have had so far. Not even the local songbirds or woodpeckers made a sound today. The only notable sighting was a Killdeer when I first arrived.
Predictions: Looks to be rain all day. Tuesday looks to be cold with W winds. Uncertain what the flight will be like. Days after a storm can be good but W winds are hard to predict and it is getting late in the GOEA migration season. Now that peak GOEA migration is ending, we will probably see smaller numbers each day from now on. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Erika Bowman
Observers: Ed Gowarty,Sr, Janet Kuehl, Mike Smith, Paul Fritz, Regina Gaison
Visitors: Boyd Bowman, Tom & Janet Kuehl, Mike Smith, Regina Gaison, Paul Fritz, Craig Kochel, Lance, Lindsay, Juliette & Savannah Hopp, Greg Gdula, Dave Poder, Ed Gowarty, Sr., Bob Stewart, Bill & Sandy Cline, Adam Maddy
Weather: Crikey was it WINDY!!!! Several times 40+mph gusts with average wind speeds up to 31mph. SE to ESE winds with cloudy to mostly cloudy skies. Chilly.
Raptor Observations: We had a decent look at a very unique, dark Buteo but was unable to identify. Hawks in Flight had nothing close to it. Likely something dark phased.
Bald Eagle Adult 9:44, 9:51, 12:59 1:13 Golden Eagle Adult 11:30, 11:31, 11:57, 12:05, 12:34, 12:38, 12:38, 12:38, 12:39, 12:44, 12:44, 12:47, 1:13, 1:21, 1:48, 2:10, 2:22, 2:41 Sub 12:50
At least 6 Bald Eagles going South. Additional non-migrating birds: Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Turkey Vulture
Non-raptor Observations: Hairy WP, A Crow, C Raven, BC Chickadee, WB Nuthatch
Predictions: Showers in the morning, then becoming windy with a steady rain in the afternoon. High 59F. Winds SW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a half an inch. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Bowman (<dizzechick...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard, Roger Donn
Visitors: Julie Leonard assisted with the count for the first part of the count and Roger Donn assisted into the early afternoon. Lots of visitors including Heather and David from Akron, Ohio, Amy and Trip Bondi from Washington County, Pa., Mark Behr and his dad, and four of five others.
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning then overcast with some sun shining through the clouds in the afternoon. Strong SE winds becoming southerly in later. Unseasonably warm.
Raptor Observations: A decent TV flight with birds close to the lake but not holding a strong flight pattern. Largest group consisted of 48 birds. The strong wind and cloud cover kept them rather low throughout the day. It was a rather weak hawk flight with American Kestrels dominating the flight, especially later in the day. Highlight was an adult Golden Eagle flying low and to the west at 1437 hrs. about the time TVs began drifting back to the west.
Non-raptor Observations: Many eastbound American Robins, European Starling, Common Grackle, Canada Goose 17, Red-winged Blackbird, Mourning Dove, Rock Pigeon, Cedar Waxwing 20, Tree Swallow 1, and American Crow
Predictions: Rain in the morning with snow in the afternoon with rapidly falling temperatures. Not expecting a flight with these conditions.
Jerry McWilliams Erie, Erie County, Pa. <jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 14, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano, Thomas Filip
Observers: Angela Fasold, Bill Chambers, Jon Kauffman, Matt Fasold, Nick Bolgiano, Robert McLaughlin
Visitors: Bald Eagle State Park Nature Inn Tour Group, Matt, Lisa
Weather: Partly cloudy throughout the day with a low of 0℃ and a high of 9.1℃. Consistent WNW winds starting at 8-12mph, speeding up to 20-22mph at noon, and then falling to 13-15mph at the end of the day.
Our first GOEA was spotted at 09:40 just as the Bald Eagle SP Nature Inn tour group arrived. It soared not too high above the N side of the ridge for a few minutes, giving the whole group a great look at it. 2 more GOEA came through while the group was at the hawk watch, but these were more distant and difficult to spot. An hour after the group left, we had 3 come through within 2 minutes, 1 that glided past somewhat far out on the N side, and 2 soaring above the N side together, likely a pair. After these 3 GOEA, the afternoon would be slow with few raptors. Close to the end of the day, one last GOEA was spotted behind the tower very high up soaring.
Other migrating raptors include 1 BAEA, 4 RTHA, and 1 AMKE.
Not much to note today, no migrating waterfowl and the wind likely suppressed songbird activity.
Predictions: Good SE/SSE wind at 15-18mph in the afternoon, mostly cloudy. Should be a good day for GOEA, maybe the last of the season now that we are at the tail end of peak GOEA migration. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers:
Visitors: Brooke Kelly (Discover Bedford County), Haley and Mike Feaster, Jon, Baeli, and Baer Hessler, Lee Fogle, Zak Miles, Tyler Williams
Weather: Strong west winds (Gusts up 30 mph) and full sun. Below freezing in the morning to nearly 38 degrees by afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Northern Harrier was an adult male!
Bald Eagles: Juveniles 1:15, 1:16 p.m.
Turkey Vultures and Red-tailed Hawks were in the valley, but none were migrating!
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Common Raven, European Starling, Eastern Bluebird, Northern Cardinal, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch
Predictions: Mainly cloudy. High 56F. Winds SE at 15 to 25 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Sandy Cline
Observers: Bob Stewart
Visitors: Bob Stewart
Weather: Cold, below freezing with 100 percent cloud cover. Brisk winds from the S/SE
Raptor Observations: BE 11:36 Ad
Merlin flew very close to escarpment, unfortunately going south. Juv. BE flew right at me and then turned and went South. Neither reappeared.
Non-raptor Observations: Crows, BlueJays, Red-belly WP. BC Chickadee, N Cardinal, BlueBirds, WB Nuthatch, T titmouse
Predictions: Sunny, highs in the 40's with WNW winds ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sandy Cline (<horseldy...>)
Date: 3/14/26 7:38 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following were seen or heard on the morning bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol PA.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, US
Mar 14, 2026 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
25 species
Canada Goose 4
Wood Duck 2
Gadwall 14
Mallard 6
Mourning Dove 3
Pied-billed Grebe 2
Great Blue Heron 2
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 6
Blue Jay 5
Carolina Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 1
Tree Swallow 6
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
American Robin 12
American Goldfinch 3
Dark-eyed Junco 5
White-throated Sparrow 20
Song Sparrow 3
Swamp Sparrow 1
Red-winged Blackbird 15
Brown-headed Cowbird 6
Rusty Blackbird 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 2
Northern Cardinal 2
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 13, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9.75 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Connor Schmitt, Craig Kochel, Joe Gyekis, Nick Bolgiano, Randy Phillips
Visitors: Frank Blum
Weather: Moderate winds in the morning around 10mph from 08:00-11:00, increased quickly afterwards to around 21-24mph by 12:00 before decreasing steadily until the end of the day. Mostly cloudy throughout the day clearing up only slightly by the end. Chilly in the morning with a low of -2.2℃, warming up to a high of 6.1℃ in the afternoon.
After a very long and slow morning with no raptors, we had our first GOEA at 11:32. The wind speed increased a lot after this one and we didn't see any more for 3 more hours until after the wind slowed down. After Connor arrived, we got 5 within an hour. A few more would pass through until the last one at 16:14, which was lower than the rest and likely looking for a place to roost overnight in Rothrock State Forest.
Other migrating raptors include 1 BAEA, 10 RTHA, 2 RSHA, 1 SSHA, 1 COHA, and 4 TUVU.
A slow day for other flyovers. We had a few AMRO, a couple of AGOL, and a COGR in the morning.
Predictions: W/WNW winds tomorrow, partly sunny in the morning and sunny in the afternoon. We might see a few GOEA but probably not as many as today. Sunday looks to be better with SE/SSE winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/13/26 4:55 pm From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: Re: Koch property Northampton County
Great list! We lost the approximate 40 Purple Finch we were getting and they were replaced by 100-200 American Goldfinch. One day I estimated 300.
Greg has to fill several feeders twice a day.
Juncos went from about 70-100 to 3 or 4.
Quite a turnover.
All numbers go into Project Feederwatch.
Deb
Deborah S. Grove
________________________________
From: Bird discussion list for Pennsylvania <PABIRDS...> on behalf of DAVID KOCH <0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Friday, March 13, 2026 7:37:36 PM
To: <PABIRDS...> <PABIRDS...>
Subject: [PABIRDS] Koch property Northampton County
Due to the recent bizarrely warm weather and lack of snow there hasnt been much bird activity in the yard except for normal woodpeckers, chickadees, cardinals, etc. But juncos and other winter sparrows are still around and will be for awhile yet. However, the last 1.5 hours of recent days have produced the following species: winter wren, bald eagle, eastern bluebirds, northern mockingbird, killdeer, wood ducks, woodcocks, and lots of northbound Canada geese.
Date: 3/13/26 4:37 pm From: DAVID KOCH <0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> Subject: Koch property Northampton County
Due to the recent bizarrely warm weather and lack of snow there hasn’t been much bird activity in the yard except for normal woodpeckers, chickadees, cardinals, etc. But juncos and other winter sparrows are still around and will be for awhile yet. However, the last 1.5 hours of recent days have produced the following species: winter wren, bald eagle, eastern bluebirds, northern mockingbird, killdeer, wood ducks, woodcocks, and lots of northbound Canada geese.
Observation start time: 11:45:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: none
Weather: Mostly cloudy then becoming mostly clear with strong winds from the SSW. Still rather cold.
Raptor Observations: The was a break in the weather with clearing skies, but few birds passing through. One local RT and just a few TVs, a SS and a couple of AK.
Non-raptor Observations: Rock Pigeon, European Starling, American Crow, and both Ring-billed and American Herring Gull.
Predictions: Cold with west winds. Cloudy in the AM then becoming partly sunny in the PM.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 12, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Bill Chambers, Thomas Filip
Observers: Debra Rittlemann, Nick Bolgiano, Robert McLaughlin
Visitors: Ron, Cindy
Weather: A cold and windy day with a low of -1.4℃ in the morning and a high of 2.7℃ in the afternoon. Consistent NW winds at 12-19mph for most of the day with some stronger gusts above 20mph. Cloudy in the morning but cleared up quickly between 14:00-13:00.
3 GOEA were spotted by Bill early in the morning before 08:00. Most likely they put down yesterday when it started to rain and thunder in the afternoon and were eager to go first thing in the morning. Afterwards we would get a GOEA about every 1-2 hours until 13:13. The afternoon was slow with no GOEA, or other raptors, seen after the last one.
Surprisingly, a light morph RLHA also flew past at 08:48 heading SW on the N side of the ridge, the first and most likely only of the season. We also had 1 BAEA and 1 RTHA.
Non-raptor Observations: A slow day for other birds. We had a flock of 19 CANG and 1 AGOL flyover.
Predictions: Tomorrow should be cloudy with S winds. Saturday looks to be sunny with WNW winds. Sunday looks to be SE/SSE winds. If the forecast holds true, tomorrow and Sunday should be good days, probably the last good days for peak GOEA migration. Saturday might be decent. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos
Predictions: Mostly cloudy, S/SE winds, high temp near 4C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Date: 3/12/26 11:00 am From: Meg Kolodick <000000dc3b46d747-dmarc-request...> Subject: Oil Creek State Park, Venango Co. 3/12
At the park today, with the creek running high, fast and muddy: 3 WOOD DUCKS, 2 CANADA GEESE, 3 PAIRS OF COMMON MERGANSERS, 2 MALLARDS. Also seen: 3 RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS,2 EASTERN BLUEBIRDS,1 EASTERN PHOEBE. Meg/Nick Kolodick
Predictions: high winds and rain Wed PM;turning colder for Thurs with temps 25-35F;moderate to strong WNW winds & a chance of snow flurries ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Date: 3/11/26 9:52 am From: Andrew McGann <andrew.mcgann...> Subject: Lancaster Co. Bird Club Upcoming Meeting Thursday Mar. 12 / Field Trip Saturday March 14
Monthly Meeting: Thursday, March 12 @ 7:00 p.m.
Location: North Museum of Nature and Science
400 College Ave
Lancaster, PA 17603
Program: Birds and Window Collisions: “You Can Save 75 Birds Right in Your
Yard”
Presented by James Cubie
Description: You can make a big difference by saving 75 birds you love to
watch right in your yard. Our club can save1,500 birds. How? by
protecting the birds from deadly window collisions. There will be several
videos, including a quiz challenging you to find birds in a very special
habitat and a free “Consumer Guide to Bird Window Collision Prevention.” He
will describe feasible strategies for preventing bird window collisions in
our community and nationally.
https://lancasterbirdclub.org/event/monthly-club-meeting-you-can-save-75-birds-right-in-your-yard/
Upcoming Field Trip - Birding the Susquehanna River
Saturday March 14 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meet up at the John Wright Restaurant Parking Lot
234 N Front Street,
Wrightsville, PA
John Lahr will lead an afternoon field trip along the Susquehanna River.
Meet at 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the John Wright Restaurant along the
Susquehanna River in Wrightsville. This field trip provides a good
opportunity to see Little Gull and maybe even Black-headed Gull which can
sometimes be found among the "Bonies!" Please contact John by 6 p.m. the
day before if you plan to attend or have questions. To RSVP, please see
contact details at the following URL:
https://lancasterbirdclub.org/event/birding-the-susquehanna-field-trip-2/
Good birding all,
Andy McGann
President, Lancaster County Bird Club
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 10, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Craig Kochel, Joe Sabo, Jon Kauffman, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Jim, Stacy, Emma
Weather: Partly cloudy in the morning with SW winds and partly sunny in the afternoon with WNW winds. Generally low 4-7mph winds today with occasional moderate 8-12mph winds.
Our first GOEA of the day came through at 10:22 on the S side. At 12:14 we spotted probably the highest GOEA we have had this season flying over the ridge before it left the ridge and flew N over the valley. Our next GOEA at 14:04 was lower and exhibited the same behavior. Our last GOEA of the day at 14:58, spotted by Jon, was on the S side and surprisingly low compared to the earlier ones.
Other migrating raptors include 5 BAEA, 2 RTHA, 4 RSHA, 2 SSHA, 2 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
We also had 2 resident COHA today, a female performing a flight display a few times and a male hunting and later seen with the female flying over the ridge.
A small flock of 3 and then 21 RBGU flew past the ridge. The most notable songbird flyover today was an AMPI. We also had 8 PISI, 13 AGOL, and 11 HOFI flyover today.
Predictions: Heavy rain and possibly thunderstorms, so no count tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/10/26 4:03 pm From: Karyn Delaney <delaneykaryn...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - Five Points Road, Portersville, Pennsylvania, US (40.97, -80.112)Five Points Boy Scout Camping Area Including Bike Trail, Mar 10, 2026
Subject: Butler County eBird Report - Five Points Road, Portersville, Pennsylvania, US (40.97, -80.112)Five Points Boy Scout Camping Area Including Bike Trail, Mar 10, 2026
I walked around the Five Points area at Moraine, North Shore this afternoon and was suprised to hear and see 3 FOY Towhees! One was near the lake, one just after entering the Five Points Trail, and the third at the pond along the trail. There were also 4 FOY Killdeer in the gravel at the Watts Bay area where sailboats are moored.
One of the checklists for the area is below.
Karyn Delaney
Five Points Road, Portersville, Pennsylvania, US (40.97, -80.112)Five Points Boy Scout Camping Area Including Bike Trail, Butler, Pennsylvania, US Mar 10, 2026 1:09 PM - 2:06 PM Protocol: Traveling 0.715 mile(s) 17 species
Canada Goose 2 Mallard 6 In pond Hooded Merganser 8 Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 Downy Woodpecker 1 Pileated Woodpecker 1 Northern Flicker 1 Blue Jay 6 American Crow 4 Black-capped Chickadee 2 Tufted Titmouse 3 Golden-crowned Kinglet 2 American Robin 4 Dark-eyed Junco 1 Song Sparrow 5 Eastern Towhee 3 FOY Northern Cardinal 7
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers:
Visitors: 1 visitors showed op on a bike
Weather: Winds out of the WSW with gust up to 27 mph. Average temperature 17 C. Cloud cover went from 0% coverage to 30%. Visibility was clear up to 40 km.
Raptor Observations: 6 raptors counted for the day, 2 red shoulder. 2 turkey vultures and 2 red tailed hawks
Non-raptor Observations: Blue birds, crows, tufted titmouse, black capped chicadees. juncos. red bellied woodpecker, mourning doves 2 mourning cloak butterflies
Predictions: turning colder with rain in the afterrnoon . ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 10:30:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard assisted with the count. Visitors included an electrical lineman, Judy Hill and Tom Finnegan.
Weather: Variably cloudy becoming all cloudy with a SSW breeze and warmer than normal.
Raptor Observations: Very little moving, but not surprised because of the mostly cloudy conditions, but also favorable conditions for flights the past three days, which may have lightened the pipeline.
Non-raptor Observations: A bit surprising was three westbound Tree Swallows, a bit earlier than expected. Other birds noted were American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, American Crow, European Starling, Northern Cardinal, Canada Goose American Herring and Ring-billed gulls, and a Hairy Woodpecker.
Predictions: Continued southerly wind, but thunderstorms in the morning then steady rain in the afternoon with strong gusty winds. Sounds like a day off.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 09, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 7.67 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Constanza Ehrenhaus, Laurie McLaughlin, Mark McLaughlin, Nick Bolgiano, Phil Park
Visitors: Lou, Bobby, Angelena
Weather: Clear skies and warm throughout the day with a low of 14.1℃ and a high 22.4℃. SW winds at 4-7 mph at the start of the day that gradually shifted to S and then SSE at 8-12mph around 12:00 before shifting back to SW winds at the end of the day at 4-7mph.
Our first GOEA was an adult that came through on the S side at 11:14. The next four did not come until over 2 hours later. These were much higher up, making it difficult to spot and age them.
Other migrating raptors include 4 BAEA, 3 RSHA, 1 SSHA, 1 TUVU, and 2 AMKE.
We had about 620 CANG today among many flocks. 34 RBGU flew over the ridge. 2 PISI flew over right at the start and another later in the morning. A flock of at least 4 HOLA flew over. We had another EAME today and our first TRES of the season.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be similar to today but perhaps cloudier. Low-moderate SW winds, partly cloudy in the morning and partly cloudy in the afternoon. I don't expect it to be a big day but we might see a few GOEA. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Bob Stewart, Greg Gdula, Jim Rocco
Visitors: 0
Weather: W to SW winds mild to gusts up to 19 mph. Blue sunny skies, mild temps . 30's in am to 60's in pm.
Raptor Observations: 1 BE- Im 12:25. With exception of RS which came close to ridge , looks were all distant.
Non-raptor Observations: Nuthatches, bluebirds, chickadees, flicker, blue jay, juncos, cow bird, red bellied wp, fox sparrow, mourning doves, ravens, fox sparrow, gray squirrel and gobbling turkeys heard below ridge.
Predictions: Partly cloudy, temps mild in the 60's, winds WSW. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jennifer Ferrick, Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard, Randy Donn
Visitors: Jennifer Ferrick and Roger Donn assisted with the count for a short time, while Julie Leonard was at the count assisting for about one hour. Visitors included Ken, a new DCNR volunteer, and Carol Allen.
Weather: Mostly clear with strong SSW wind and quite balmy
Raptor Observations: A fairly steady, but light, flight of TVs at all heights, but very high later in the day. Only a few hawks, but they were coming through very high, so it is likely some were missed. Three local Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: Highlight was a first for the count an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull flying past rather low heading south overland. Other birds recorded were Ring-billed and American Herring gull, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, European starling, Horned Lark 3, American Crow, Common Grackle, and Red-winged Blackbird
Predictions: Cloudy and continued warm in the AM then a 60% chance of rain in the PM with continued SSW. Maybe a few more birds before the rain comes. Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie Co., <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 08, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9.12 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Bill Chambers, Ken Tucker, Nick Bolgiano, Robert McLaughlin
Visitors: Sophie, Adam, Greg, Lou, Jason, Abigail
Weather: Overall a warm and pleasant day. Winds started off W and low at 4-7mph from 08:00 to 10:00 but shifted to NW at 8-12mph for most of the day until the last hour when they shifted to NNW at 13-18mph. Partly sunny for the whole morning and partly cloudy for the afternoon. Warm throughout the day with a low of 10.2℃ and a high of 16.2℃.
I thought today would be a decent to good day so I arrived about an hour early thinking that would be plenty of time to catch any early GOEA. Little did I know we would be breaking records today. Not even a minute after I set my gear down the first GOEA came through at 07:54. At 08:15 the second came through and it really started to get hectic soon after. At one point we had 12 GOEA within 3 minutes from 09:12-09:15. Most of our GOEA were flying at low-medium height above us over the ridge top today, but a few flew on the N side of the ridge and at the end of the day some were distant on the S side. After 12:00 the action started to die down and we were rewarded with our 80th and final GOEA at 15:44.
Our 80 GOEA count today was a new record not only for Tussey Mountain (62) but also officially for PA (74 at Allegheny Front). I'm told there was an 82 count in PA at a different site that was not entered.
Other migrating raptors included 5 BAEA, 16 RTHA, 9 RSHA, 2 SSHA, 1 COHA, 2 AMKE, and 1 MERL. The AMKE were our firsts of the season and the BAEA and RTHA were high counts for the season.
It was also a good day for other birds. We had 2 flocks of TUSW for a total of 52. Many flocks of CANG flew over with a total of 755. 16 RNDU and 3 COME also flew over the ridge. Around 13:35 we had 3 SACR flying around on the S side of the ridge for a while before they decided to fly N over the ridge.
At least 107 RWBL flew over today in small groups. 12 HOLA flyovers were heard. A flock of 4 PISI flew over early and later we had 2 individually. 2 PUFI were heard, out firsts of the season. An EAME was spotted by Nick, an uncommon flyover at Tussey.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be a sunny day with SW winds, low in the morning and moderate in the afternoon. We won't see as many as today and probably not as many as Saturday but we should still see some GOEA tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Erika Bowman
Observers: Adam Katrancha, Bill Cline, Sandy Cline
Weather: Breezy. Wind gusts up to 30mph. Cloudy and cool.
Raptor Observations: Local birds: At least 6 TVs, 1 Red-shouldered Hawk, 2 Bald Eagles, 2 Red-tailed Hawk.
Unidentified Eagle 1:38
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied WP, Downy WP, Blue Jay, A Crow, C Raven, BC Chickadee, T Titmouse, WB Nuthatch, E Bluebird, A Robin, Purple Finch, DE Junco, RW Blackbird, C Grackle, N Cardinal
Predictions: Sunny. High 67F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Bowman (<dizzechick...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 07, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Weather: Finally, after 4 days of no count, we were able to get a few hours in today. Heavy fog all morning that started to clear after 13:00 at which point the count began. Consistent S winds at 13-16mph in the afternoon. We started to see the rain clouds rolling in after 17:00 and it started to rain at 17:45 as we were walking back.
Raptor Observations: 27 GOEA spotted today. 25 adults, 1 juvenile at 13:56, and 1 unknown at 15:28, all on the south side of the ridge.
After bad conditions held them back since Tuesday, the eagles were eager to start flying soon after the fog cleared up. Our first GOEA of the day, a juvenile, came through at 13:56. 2 more followed shortly after and then we had about a 40 minute break until the next one at 14:59. After this we got one every few minutes until the last one at 17:13. A few of the early eagles were far out on the south but almost all were closer to the ridge, initially flying NE low over the ridge top until they spotted us and diverted slightly to fly along the south side of the ridge.
Other migrating raptors included 4 BAEA, 8 RTHA, 3 RSHA, 1 COHA, and 1 MERL. The MERL was our first of the season and this was a high count for the other species for the season so far.
Non-raptor Observations: We had some interesting flyovers today. 113 total CANG and 20 SNGO. 1 RBGU early in the count and 21 later. At the end of the day we heard a SACR, but couldn't locate it.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be a good day. The rain should pass us overnight giving us a partly cloudy/sunny day tomorrow. W winds at 10-13 mph. Uncertain if we will see as high a number as today, but after having bad conditions for so long we should get a good number tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers: Adam Katrancha, Dave Poder, Jim Rocco
Visitors: John and Jenn Wolff, 6 others
Weather: Warm with fog in the valley in the morning. You can look out for a few miles perfectly straight, with a sea of clouds below you. The day started with a slight southeast wind that grew in intensity throughout the day. Perfect clouds most of the day with nearly optimal temperatures made for a great late winter day.
23 of the Golden Eagles occurred in one hour. At one time there were four in the sky together.
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Common Loon, Common Raven, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, European Starling, Northern Cardinal, Northern Flicker, Tree Swallow, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch
Two Eastern Comma Butterflies
Eastern Newt walking across the hawkwatch field
Predictions: A shower is possible early. Cloudy early with partial sunshine expected late. High around 60F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Bernie O'Connor, Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard, Katie Andersen, Randy Donn
Visitors: Bernie O'Connor, Julie Leonard, Roger Donn, and Katie Andersen assisted with the count. Visitors included Michele Franz, Jim Samuel, Brian Berchtold, Doug Massey, Carol Allen, Christie, Jamie, and three or four others.
Weather: Some sun early then cloudy with strong SSW wind and unseasonably warm.
Raptor Observations: A pretty decent flight of TV and RS for this early in the season. Birds were flying close to the shore and most stayed down fairly low. The flight was fairly steady, but began to wane as the clouds thickened and rain arrived. Highlights were a Rough-legged Hawk and a Peregrine Falcon
Non-raptor Observations: Large numbers of Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, and American Robins passing through, especially early in the day. Other birds noted were American Crow, Rock Pigeon, House Finch 1, European Starling, Ring-billed and American Herring gulls, Pileated Woodpecker 1. Canada Goose 14, Killdeer 4, Pileated Woodpecker 1
Predictions: WSW wind and cooler with clouds in the AM with some sun in the PM. If the winds are more off the lake, then I don't expect a lakeshore flight. Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, Pa.
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Sandy Cline
Observers: Greg Gdula, Nancy Ott
Visitors: Greg Gudula , Nancy Ott - thanks to my great spotters!
Weather: Sunny & warm, 60's, winds from the SSW
Raptor Observations: GE 10:36, 11:07, both were Ad and high in sky BE 11:09 Ad, 11:52, Unk age
Non-raptor Observations: Chickadees, titmouse, Nuthatch, Mourning doves, Red Belly WP, N Cardinal, Blue jay, crows Many large flocks of Canada Geese and guls heading N
Predictions: Sunny and warm, chance of late day thunderstorms, winds out of the S ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sandy Cline (<horseldy...>)
Date: 3/5/26 6:58 am From: Carole Winslow <cjwinslow94...> Subject: Venango Co- saw-whet owl in nest box
Yesterday I was thrilled to get a call from our local Seneca Rocks Audubon nest box monitors Mal Hays, Larry Towse and Nick Kolodick checking the boxes at Oil Creek State Park. (same folks that located our two nesting saw-whets last year here in Clarion Co)
During checks they found a saw-whet sitting tight in a box, it did not leave the box or move off its position while they were checking and getting a quick photo. They reported they felt she may already be on eggs though they were unable to see any for certain. After looking at our dates from last year on eggs, and looking at Birds of the World (BNA) it seems like the earliest dates for even northern sites is right around now, but the eggs we had last year would have been laid around March 18-20. So we'll have to see if it's a female checking out the site. We'll wait a week or 10 days and recheck, I'd not like to discourage her from staying in the box. Either way, another exciting development in our saw-whet adventures !
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Erika Bowman
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Cloudy and colder, warming slightly. Afternoon turned to mostly sunny. NW winds.
Raptor Observations: 1 Turkey Vulture came low along the escarpment. It seemed to catch a scent, made a few circles and then went back North. No other activity.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied WP, Downy WP, Hairy WP, Blue Jay, A Crow, BC Chickadee, T Titmouse, WB Nuthatch, A Robin, DE Junco, N Cardinal
Predictions: Cold with East ESE winds around 10-13 mph. Snow flurries. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Bowman (<dizzechick...>)
Contributors: John Campbell, Tom & Janet Kuehl, Jim McGuire, Jerry McWilliams, Jeff Payne, Melissa Reckner, Breanna Rossiter, Jason Short, Will Toret, Amy Vincent, Michael Williams, Eric Yanyo.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 17 February 2026 through Tuesday, 24 February 2026
**This report is distributed by e-mail only. Compiler is not responsible for errors on websites who reproduce/reprint these reports. If you would like to receive western PA RBAs, contact AMYTARACIDO@ YAHOO.COM
Transcript-
NOTE: WHITE-WINGED SCOTER, BLACK VULTURE, ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, COMMON RAVEN, PINE SISKIN, AMERICAN TREE SPARROW, FOX SPARROW continue to be reported.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
On 2/24 in McKeesport, 1 RED-THROATED LOON (EY).
BEAVER COUNTY:
At the McRoberts Road marsh on 2/21, 2 SANDHILL CRANES (JS).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle on 2/20, sightings included HORNED LARKS; on 2/22, 1 COMMON GOLDENEYE X HOODED MERGANSER HYBRID (JMcW); on 2/23, 4 TRUMPETER SWANS (BR).
On 2/22 at State Gamelands #218, 1 NORTHERN SHRIKE (JC).
In Erie on 2/22, 1 'OREGON' DARK-EYED JUNCO (AV).
FOREST COUNTY:
On 2/21 north of Tionesta, 1 AMERICAN GOSHAWK (JMcG).
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
In Reynoldsville on 2/21, 2 SANDHILL CRANES (TK).
MERCER COUNTY:
At Shenango Wildlife area on 1/21, 1 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (MW).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
On 2/18 east of Berlin, 1 EVENING GROSBEAK (JP).
WESTMORELAND COUNTY:
At Saint Vincent College on 2/18, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (WT).
On 2/18 in Laughlintown, 5 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS (MR).
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 02, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Andrew Bechdel, Connor Schmitt, Jon Kauffman, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: A cloudy and chilly morning with a low temperature of -5.7℃ and low ESE winds at 3mph. The skies stayed generally cloudy the whole morning while winds shifted to SE and increased slightly to 6mph. After noon the skies cleared up a bit and the winds increased to 9mph with a high temperature of 4.1℃
Raptor Observations: 3 GOEA spotted today. 2 were spotted at the same time soaring over the ridge. The first, an adult, changed course slightly and flew on the south side of the ridge at 11:44. The second, a sub-adult, followed shortly after flying over the ridge top at 11:45. The third GOEA was spotted at 12:04 on the south side initially before crossing the ridge and continuing its way NE on the north side.
Despite good conditions in the afternoon, we did not see as many GOEA as expected. It is possible the approaching storm is holding them back.
Other migrating raptors included an adult BAEA, a RTHA, and a SSHA.
Resident raptors included 2 RTHA, 1 RSHA, 1 COHA, and 7 TUVU.
Unfortunately our PISI streak was broken today with 0 seen or heard. We did however have a good number of AGOL today with a total count of 45, a new high for the season. Songbird activity was otherwise low today.
Predictions: The forecast for the following days are uncertain as the forecast keeps changing but it seems to be rainy for much of the week. Tomorrow looks to be rain all day. Wednesday may be clear but winds look to be very low NE in morning and very low SSE winds in the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Ed Gowarty,Sr, Paul Fritz, Regina Gaison
Visitors: 0
Weather: The day started with -7.6 C temp. East ESE winds around 10-13 mph. Around 11a snow flurries started with increased white out of the south end of valley.
Raptor Observations: No raptors.
Non-raptor Observations: Red bellied wp, nuthatches, chickadees, juncos, tree sparrow, fox sparrow, downy wp, cardinals, mourning doves, cedar waxwings, robins, about 30 gulls, a couple canada geese, ravens, crows. Paul and Regina viewed a barred owl as they entered hawkwatch area.
Predictions: Mixed precipitation starting snow then afternoon rain potential. Winds SE. temps 20's to afternoon 30/40's. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 01, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Constanza Ehrenhaus, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: The morning started off cloudy but the skies cleared up by noon. A bit chilly at 0.3�C in the morning warming up to 11.2�C. Consistent NW winds with moderate winds ranging 9-12mph.
Raptor Observations: 1 GOEA spotted today. At 14:50, Nick spotted an adult on the north side of the ridge. It circled high above for a few minutes observing us before resuming its flight NE.
Other migrating raptors included 3 BAEA (1 adult, 2 immature), 2 RTHA, 1 RSHA, 1 COHA, 1 SSHA, and 1 TUVU.
Resident raptors included a pair of BAEA flying together, 3 RTHA, 13 TUVU, and 5 BLVU.
12 PISI flew over early in the morning, a high count for the season.
Predictions: Partly sunny with low ESE winds in the morning and moderate SE/SSE winds in the afternoon. If this forecast holds true we should see some good GOEA movement tomorrow, especially in the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/1/26 2:43 pm From: K Springer <springer0707...> Subject: Waterfowl in Mercer County
There were really nice numbers of waterfowl today on Shenango Lake.
At the Shenango Wildlife Area Propagation Ponds:
There were over 238 Pintails! The most I've ever seen at one time. 10 Tundra Swans, 76 American Wigeons, 42 Gadwall, 15 Green-winged Teal, etc. The ponds are open with not much ice.
At Mercer Rec. on East Lake Road:
HUGE NUMBERS! 38 Tundras, 39 Gadwall, 42 Wigeons, 43 Mallards, 86 Pintails, 118 Canvasbacks, 73 Redheads, 152 Ring-necked Ducks, 350 Common Mergansers, 2 Horned & 3 Pied-billed Grebes, etc. There were sooo many more to count, but I got too cold!
Golden Run has a lot of open shoreline since the water is down, so the best place to view this large expanse of open water is from Mercer Rec.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Feb 28, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter:
Observers: Nick Bolgiano, Robert McLaughlin
Weather: Sunny and warm with a low of 6.5�C and a high of 18.7�C. The morning started off with unexpected SSE/S winds at 8mph. By 14:00, the winds shifted to WNW/NW.
Raptor Observations: 7 GOEA spotted today. The first was an adult quite far out on the south side of the ridge by Nick at 10:57. At 11:14 an adult flew low over the ridge top giving us great views. At 11:37 another adult started to come over the ridge top but stopped when it saw us and turned around. At 12:09 an adult came over the ridge top higher this time, which we assumed was the same that turned around earlier. Another adult GOEA came through over the ridge top at 12:35. 2 GOEA would fly through the south valley, one an adult at 12:46, and one at 13:01 too distant to age. Afterwards the winds shifted NW and we wouldn't see the next and final GOEA the day until 15:43 on the north side of the ridge which we were unable to age.
Other migrating raptors included a SSHA, 2 RTHA, and 9 TUVU.
Resident Raptors included a pair of BAEA vocalizing, 3 resident RTHA seen hunting and kiting, 2 BLVU, and 8 TUVU.
Today was a good day for migrating geese. About 360 CANG flew over in many flocks and we even had a flock of 48 SNGO plus 8 more mixed in with a CANG flock. 2 more PISI flew over today and a HOLA flew over early in the morning.
Predictions: Uncertain, tomorrow is supposed to bring NNW winds and will likely be colder and more cloudy than the past couple of days with a chance of some snow or rain in the morning. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers: Bob Stewart
Visitors: Jack, Lucas, and Matt Siydr, Sheela Beal, John Meyers, Jacob Huffman, Chad, Elizabeth, Choyn, and Breena Weight
Weather: Clear and sunny in the morning! Warming up through the day and reaching nearly 60 degrees. Winds continuously from the west. A beautiful day!
Raptor Observations: Raptors not migrating today!
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Canada Goose, Common Raven, Double-crested Cormorant, Dark-eyed Junco, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Cardinal, Pileated Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch Also about 20 blackbirds and a dozen gulls (both unidentified).
Predictions: Becoming partly cloudy later with any flurries or snow showers ending by noontime. High 39F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 40%. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Sandy Cline
Observers: Greg Gdula, Judy Johns
Visitors: Greg Gdula, Judy Johns
Weather: Sunny & warm, NW winds
Raptor Observations: BE - 11:45, soaring high in sky, heading North
Non-raptor Observations: titmouse, hairy WP, Bluebirds, chickadees, N Cardinal, blue jay
Predictions: continuing warm and sunny with W winds ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sandy Cline (<horseldy...>)
Date: 2/28/26 11:05 am From: Robin and Daniel Zmoda <robinanddanielz...> Subject: Fwd: WRS Data Added
Northampton WRS 482 Year 21 for this route. New high count for TV from 48. Single digit BV was last gotten in 2015. Redtails were on the low side with the high count being 46 in 2013. Kestrels were normal. We usually get one or two. Eagles have been steadily increasing, but the landfill stop (2 A, 2 Imm) usually skews our numbers.
Sharp-shinned Hawk: Adult: Immature: Unknown: Cooper's Hawk: Adult: Immature: Unknown: Red-shouldered Hawk: Adult: Immature: Unknown: 13 Red-tailed Hawk: Adult: 8 Immature: Unknown: 5 Rough-legged Hawk: Light Morph: Dark Morph: Unknown: Golden Eagle: Adult: Immature: Unknown: 2 American Kestrel: Male: 2 Female: Unknown: Merlin: Male: Female: Unknown: Gyrfalcon Peregrine Falcon: Adult: Immature: Unknown: Other birds and comments: Snow cover was spotty, approx 50%. Ravens and a Killdeer were notable birds. One Redtail was completely leucistic. Not a hint of color on the tail, but legs were yellow, so it was not an albino. No pictures were able to be taken as it was flying and we were driving.
Date: 2/28/26 5:04 am From: Karyn Delaney <delaneykaryn...> Subject: Re: Clarion Co- first woodcock of the spring last evening ! and a screech owl pair again
Hi Carole... this is amazing! Do they always arrive this early? And do they stay in the area, or move on?
Karyn Delaney
On Sun, Feb 22, 2026, 3:40 PM Carole Winslow <cjwinslow94...> wrote:
> After the past week the ground had thawed and all the snow was gone > yesterday evening. It was a beautiful calm, clear evening after a little > afternoon sun, it smelled wonderful and so I went out at dusk just on the > off chance of hearing the first woodcock. After the pretty brutal winter I > wasn't really expecting to hear one yet but shockingly, there it was right > on cue at dusk, twittering up into the evening sky and chirping its way > down again. If I hadn't heard it twice I might have convinced myself that I > dreamed it. It's always such a treat the first one I hear, giving me hope > that spring will indeed arrive. We are missing the blizzard today up here > and the next week doesn't look so bad, so I think it should manage to > survive the late winter weather. > > Also my female screech owl that spent the winter roosting in the barn > has survived and the other day a male showed up roosting next to her in the > barn. Last night one was also calling after dusk. Good news for another > nesting season ! He looks mostly gray but with some reddish around the > face and ears so I guess he'd be called a brown morph. > > Good end of winter birding, > > Carole Winslow > Sligo, Clarion Co. >
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Feb 27, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Jon Kauffman, Nick Bolgiano, Peggy Wagoner, Robert McLaughlin
Visitors: Connor Schmitt (Observer)
Weather: A very warm and sunny day with the morning starting off at 4.9℃ and going up to 11.1℃ by noon. SW/SSW winds throughout the day with a few brief shifts to NW. Wind speed started off at a low 1.8mph but gradually sped up to 8mph by 13:00.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA spotted today.
Migratory Raptors A RSHA came through low and close on the south side of the ridge. 2 SSHA were spotted today, both of which flew N over the ridge at eye level. 3 RTHA, 2 BAEA, 5 TUVU were also spotted.
Resident Raptors Pairs of RTHA were seen escorting migrants on both sides of the ridge. A resident COHA made its first appearance of the season on the south side of the ridge. An adult BAEA chased away an immature on the south side. 3 BLVU and 9 TUVU were also seen throughout the day.
A few minutes after I arrived, a small flock of at least 3 PISI flew over. Later 2 more flew past individually. So far it has been a good season for them with at least 1 each day.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be another mostly sunny and warm day with low to moderate W winds. There is potential for a GOEA or two to show up but given the absence of any in the past 2 days we may not see any. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: none
Weather: Mostly cloudy becoming clear, moderate SW wind, first warm day for a while.
Raptor Observations: Very few birds, even though conditions were good, but it is still early in the season. Three Bald Eagles believed to be local
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 13, Herring Gull 1, Ring-billed Gull 2, Rock Pigeon 15, European Starling 2, Red-winged Blackbird 2, American Crow 8
Predictions: Mild early then becoming colder with WNW wind. Conditions don't look favorable for several days.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Feb 26, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Andrew Bechdel, Bill Chambers, Connor Schmitt, Jon Kauffman
Visitors: Jon Kauffman Bill Chambers Connor Schmitt Andrew Bechdel Jeff
Weather: Contrary to the forecast, today was a mostly cloudy day until about 15:00 when most of the cloud cover broke. Visibility was better today, with the Allegheny Front being visible when I arrived and Stone Mountain being only slightly obscured by haze. The winds started off NW at a low 4.9mph, shifting slightly to NNW by 10:00 and gradually increasing throughout the morning to 7.8mph by 12:00. After 12:00 the winds shifted slightly to NW and began to slow down again.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA were spotted today.
7 migrating TUVU were seen throughout the day moving NE. A female/immature NOHA was spotted in the afternoon on the south side of the ridge flying NE. A RTHA flying NE was seen towards the end of the day being escorted by our resident RTHA.
Besides the 7 TUVU seen flying NE, 8 more were seen hunting over the valleys throughout the day, along with 4 BLVU. Our resident RTHA was seen a few times hunting and diving, and a resident BAEA was seen a couple of times.
A group of 4 ravens were seen bothering a resident BAEA, though they never got physical with it. A couple of COME flying SE were spotted by Connor. As I was packing up for the day, a PISI flew over heading NE.
Predictions: Tomorrow could possibly bring some GOEA with sunny skies and weak SW winds.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Jim Rocco, Nancy Ott
Visitors: None
Weather: Cloudy with some valley haze, Visibility 15 -20 km, light W winds, temps -2.4C to 2.1C
Raptor Observations: 1 RT counted
Several RTs and an RS that flew southward
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos, N cardinals, Pileated, Red-bellied and Downy wp, A crows
Predictions: Sunny with SW winds, warmer, with a high near 7C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Date: 2/26/26 8:55 am From: Russ States <pelagics202...> Subject: Venango Co.
Yesterday 2/25 I had an Eastern Phoebe briefly show up at my feeders. It sat on a branch for awhile, & next time I looked out it was gone, & could not be relocated. Earliest record & 1st for February for Venango Co.
