Date: 4/29/26 5:32 pm From: DAVID KOCH <0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> Subject: Koch property Northampton County
Species seen here in the yard/feeder areas the last 2 days include: multiple white-throated sparrows, a pine siskin, wood thrush, ruby-throated hummingbirds (all males that didn’t stay), brown thrasher, towhee, house wren, Baltimore orioles (males), and both male and female rose-breasted grosbeaks.
Arlene Koch <davilene...>
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Compiler: Ezra Murray
Counters: Lauren Stanfa
Weather: High of 61 Chance of showers during day predicted Thunderstorms this evening SW wind 5-10mph Rain started around 12:15 EST and continued for the rest of the day.
Raptor Observations: A local Cooper's hawk hunted around the lookout and a large kettle of turkey vultures attempted to find thermals before coming back down.
Non-raptor Observations: A dozen loons migrated through ======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/29/26 8:48 am From: DAVID SIEMINSKI <dksieminski...> Subject: Jacobsburg State Park Northampton County
Seen today at Jacobsburg State park were the following birds:
2 adult Bald Eagles perching on the top of a power pole. Canada Geese Turkey Vultures Downy Woodpecker Red-bellied Woodpecker Northern Flicker Blue-Headed Vireo Blue Jays Crows Tree Swallows Barn Swallows Black-capped Chickadees Tufted Titmouse Ruby-Crowned Kinglet Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher American Robins European starlings Black-White Warbler LA Waterthrush Northern Cardinal Red-winged Blackbirds Common Grackle
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Eli Hevalow
Weather:
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: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard assisted with the count.
Weather: Mostly cloudy, strong gusty winds from the SW with mild temps.
Raptor Observations: Highlight of the morning was a small all white falcon flying low to the NE believed to be an American kestrel! A fairly steady light movement of birds remaining low through the day, likely because of the low cloud cover and high winds. Birds were moving close to the lake until after mid-day when the flight shifted inland, despite the continued SW wind.
Non-raptor Observations: Purple Martin, Barn Swallow, Tree Swallow, Chimney Swift, American Goldfinch, Great Blue Heron 2, Common Loon 4, American Robin, Wild Turkey 1, Ring-billed/Herring gulls, American Crow, Common Grackle, several large flocks of Blue Jays and several large flocks of cowbirds.
Predictions: Colder with periods of rain and NE wind. No hawkwatching tomorrow.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 4/28/26 10:15 am From: Meg Kolodick <000000dc3b46d747-dmarc-request...> Subject: Venango Co.
A YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER visited our small water feature 4/28. I observed it sitting among wet honeysuckle blooms, fluttering it's wings, then coming out into the open to preen. I'd seen birdbath bathing, dust bathing, dew bathing and have heard of anting, but blossom bathing was new.
Date: 4/28/26 4:42 am From: Lisa Dziuban <dziubanlisa...> Subject: FOY Plumstead Twp., Bucks Co.
Within the last two weeks the following have arrived: barn swallows, gray catbird, northern house wren.
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
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Wind S/SE, light at start, but mostly 8-12 mph, mostly sunny with a few clouds later in the day.
Raptor Observations: Migrating raptors include 8 OSPR, 3 BAEA, 3 RTHA, 40 BWHA, 2 SSHA, 2 TUVU and 1 PEFA.
Overall a modest but fun last day. Strong thermals and mostly clear skies pushed the birds very high up, making spotting difficult. We thought today could have been a big Osprey day. While 8 isn't what I'd call a big day, it was our high count for the season. However, the real raptor highlight of the day was the Peregrine Falcon, our first and only of the season. It was spotted by Ken who saw it when Nick and I were looking at an Osprey. Thank goodness he was here to save the day again. I have been complaining all of April about not seeing a single Peregrine, and had Ken not been here today we wouldn't have gotten one. Thank you Ken!
This was the last watch day for 2026. We recorded 224 Golden Eagles, the 3rd highest seasonal tally in 26 years. As this is the species that we focus on, it was a very successful season. Numbers of Ospreys, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Broad-winged Hawks were below average, as April winds were less favorable.
The passerine highlight of the day was undoubtedly the single EVGR flyover. A female/immature, it flew over while I was eating my lunch. I froze when I heard the call and got on it quickly when I heard it a second time. I've been hoping for a EVGR flyover all season and I'm glad it finally happened on the last day.
Also notable was the 83 BLJA we had today. There were 2 large groups, one with about 35 and one with about 45. When the second group of 45 came through, about 10 broke off and started to make a fuss, perhaps because they noticed a hawk sitting in the woods.
Other flyovers include 1 DCCO, 8 BARS, 1 AMPI, and 29 AGOL. The AMPI seemed a bit late to me as I haven't had one here since March.
There was a noticeable increase in the number of local passerines, most notably the BAWW. They seemed eager to start claiming territory and were singing and calling into the afternoon.
The local raven was seen carrying food back to its nest again a couple of times. I spotted those ravens carrying nest material on my first day here, so it has been nice to see that their nest seems to have been successful.
Not a bird, but I saw the Red-backed Vole that lives in the rocks pop out briefly one last time.
Predictions: Last day, so no predictions needed! But in case anybody is curious, it's supposed to be S/SSE wind tomorrow with a good chance of rain. If the rain holds off it could actually be a decent day in the morning. ======================================================================== 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: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Ed Gowarty,Sr, Greg Gdula, Jim Rocco
Visitors: Adam Maddy, Becky Idler(sp)
Weather: Sunny with blue skies to start and thin cloud cover late in day. Temp 8.2 to 14.9 C. Winds mainly SE with averages 15-24 mph.
Raptor Observations: TV's floated around all day. Some non migratory BW's and RT's. PG noted 11:02 directly overhead seen naked eye but distant. 12 BE's. ad BE 10:46,10:52 X2, sub ad BE 10:01, 10:41, 10:46 X2, 10:47, 11:31, 12:05, 12:09, 12:44. 10 Ospreys. BW 47. NH 4.
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning doves, blue birds, tree swallows, blue jays, towhee, ravens, crows, tufted titmouse. Black swallow tails, clouded sulfur, tiger swallowtails, variegated fritillary
Predictions: Temps 30's up to 50'sF. Rain expected 7-9a then mainly cloudy with S-SSE winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Date: 4/27/26 1:18 pm From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: RBA western Pennsylvania, 14 April 2026
RBA
*Pennsylvania
*Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania
*PAWE04.14.26
Highlights:
RED-THROATED LOON
GOLDEN EAGLE (Crawford and Fayette Counties)
SHORT-EARED OWL
FISH CROW (Somerset and Westmoreland Counties)
PURPLE MARTIN
BANK SWALLOW
RUSTY BLACKBIRD
YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Butler County)
EVENING GROSBEAK (Westmoreland County)
Contributors: James Baker, Bill Blauvelt, Meredith Cellitti, Thomas Connor, Tyler Doyle, Linda Greble, Ryan Hamilton, Dave Keith, Meg Kolodick, Jordan Lehman, Chris Lundberg, Adam Maddy, Avi Marshall, Michael McDevitt, Dan McGuire, Jesse McGuire, Jerry McWilliams, Ron Mumme, Kenneth Pinnow, Jerry Stanley, John Taylor, Carole Winslow.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 7 April 2026 through Tuesday, 14 April 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: TUNDRA SWAN, SURF SCOTER, VIRGINIA RAIL, SOLITARY SANDPIPER, COMMON LOON, GREAT EGRET, ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, BROAD-WINGED HAWK, BLACK VULTURE, PINE SISKIN, PALM WARBLER continue to be reported, and FOY warblers.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
On 4/9 at Wingfield Pines, 1 SANDHILL CRANE (JB).
At Frick Park on 4/10, 1 PAINTED BUNTING (MM et. al.).
On 4/12 at Emsworth Lock & Dam, 2 BANK SWALLOWS (TC).
BUTLER COUNTY:
In Slippery Rock on 4/14, 1 YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD (TD).
CLARION COUNTY:
In Sligo last week, COMMON RAVENS (CW).
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
On 4/8 at Millers Ponds, 2 GOLDEN EAGLES (JL).
Near Tamarack Lake on 4/10, 4 NORTHERN PINTAILS (CL).
On 4/10 at Meadville Country Club, 6 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS (RM).
At Conneaut Lake on 4/11, 1 TRUMPETER SWAN (JMcG). At Conneaut Marsh on 4/11, 4 NORTHERN PINTAILS (KP).
On 4/14 in Linesville, 2 RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS (RH).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle this week, sightings included NORTHERN HARRIERS, MERLINS, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 1 SHORT-EARED OWL, PURPLE MARTINS (JMcW).
FAYETTE COUNTY:
Near Ohiopyle on 4/8, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (DM).
INDIANA COUNTY:
At Yellow Creek State Park on 4/11, 4 WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS, 1 RED-THROATED LOON (JT et. al.); on 4/12, 1 RED-THROATED LOON (AMar).
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
In Sigel on 4/12, 1 RED-HEADED WOODPECKER (DK).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
On 4/13 and 4/14 in Windber, FISH CROWS (AMad, LG).
VENANGO COUNTY:
In Buttermilk Hill on 4/10, 1 SANDHILL CRANE (JS).
On 4/10 at Two Mile Run County Park, 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD (MK).
WESTMORELAND COUNTY:
In Vandergrift on 4/12 and 4/14, 1 FISH CROW (MC).
On 4/14 in State Gamelands #111, 2 EVENING GROSBEAKS (BB).
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Compiler: Diolinda Mundoza
Counters: Zachary Underwoood
Weather: Sunny with north winds in early morning becoming southeast as the day progressed.
Raptor Observations: 2 local Broad-Winged Hawks, 1 local Bald Eagle, and 2 Local Red-Tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Pat Howell
Visitors: Pat Howell assisted before 0900 hrs. EST followed by Joe Susi & Julie Leonard who assisted for a few minutes. Visitors included Roger Donn, and the park manager Matt Greene.
Weather: Mostly clear with Cirrostratus clouds drifting through at times Modest winds from the SE switching to ENE by afternoon. Above average temps.
Raptor Observations: Birds were coming fairly steady though very high in small numbers, but in a steady flight line for until the wind switch to the ENE between 1200 and 1300 hrs. The finest hour was between the 1000 and 1100 hr. EST. When the wind shifted to the ENE between the 1200 and 1300 hr. EST, the lakeshore flight shut down. A slight push of SS early then BWs. There was a decent movement of BEs.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 5, Double-crested Cormorant 14, Purple Martin 2, Barn Swallow, Tree Swallow, Chimney Swift 2, American Goldfinch 9, Rock Pigeon, European Starling, Common GrackleJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, E bluebirds, Tree swallows, M Doves, E Towhees, N cardinals, Red-bellied and Downy wp, N Flickers, Blue Jays, A Crows, C Ravens, RB Kinglets, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Chipping, Field and White-throated sparrows, and a Ruffed Grouse that briefly perched on the back of a bench!
Predictions: Sunny, SE winds, high temp near 14C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Zachary Underwood
Counters:
Weather: Partly cloudy with calm NE winds.
Raptor Observations: 3 local Red-Tailed Hawks, 4 local Bald Eagles (Adult and Immature), and 2 local Cooper's Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 08:45:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers:
Visitors: Nonw
Weather: Complete cloud cover. Visibility 10 km with haze. Moderate wind out of the SE, ESE. Drizzle started at 8:45 AM EST with rain showers at 9:15 AM EST.
Watch terminate at 8:45 AM EST due to rain and forecast of rain all day.
Raptor Observations: None
Non-raptor Observations: towhee, raven, bluebird, crow, cardinal, tufted titmouse. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bstewart...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 11:00:00 Total observation time: 2.83 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Lauren Stanfa
Weather: Overcast with strong winds coming from the SE then rain starting at 11:30 and continuing for the rest of the day.
Raptor Observations: One of the resident bald eagles made an appearance and flew in close to the lookout. Two local red-tailed hawks hunted in Kempton valley before the rain started.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/25/26 7:19 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following were seen on a rain shortened bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol. PA.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, US
Apr 25, 2026 7:30 AM - 9:45 AM
Protocol: Traveling
Participants: 81.0 mile(s)
32 species
Canada Goose 3
Wood Duck 4
Mallard 2
Mourning Dove 3
Great Blue Heron 3
Osprey 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 3
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 2
Great Crested Flycatcher 1 FOY
Eastern Warbling Vireo 6
Blue Jay 3
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 25
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 8
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 3
Carolina Wren 4
American Robin 10
House Sparrow 3
House Finch 2
American Goldfinch 6
White-throated Sparrow 2
Song Sparrow 3
Orchard Oriole 2 FOY
Baltimore Oriole 2 FOY
Red-winged Blackbird 25
Brown-headed Cowbird 6
Common Yellowthroat 10
Northern Yellow Warbler 4 FOY
Yellow-rumped Warbler 3
Northern Cardinal 2
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Weather: NW wind when I arrived, shifted to NNE by 10:00. Wind speed at a low 4-8mph the whole day. It started off cloudy when I arrived but completely cleared up within the next hour. Around 11:00 rain clouds started to come in, but we didn't get a drop as the clouds went around us on both sides of the ridge, giving us an interesting view. The rain finally hit the Hawk Watch just before 15:00 as I got into my car.
Raptor Observations: 1 OSPR, 184 BWHA, and 2 SSHA.
Wind conditions were not good for migrating raptors today, and yet we got our best BWHA day for the season. Perhaps they were held up last week and finally just decided to make a break for it. The largest kettle was only 11 BWHA, but we were getting some every few minutes up until the rain came in and blocked off their flight further south of us. At the end of the day, an OSPR came through low and looked like it was contemplating finding a place to land before continuing north.
It seems like last night was also unexpectedly good for nocturnal migrants. There were a lot more warblers along the trail and at the hawk watch. Just at the site, there were 3 OVEN, 2 BAWW, 1 BLBW, 1 CSWA, and 4 BTNW. Also notable was 1 BHVI, 1 RBNU, and 1 WIWR.
Predictions: Tomorrow seems like it will rain all day, so probably no count. Normally tomorrow would be the last day of the season, but we will probably be counting on Monday as it may be a good day. ======================================================================== 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: Rosemary McGlynn
Observers:
Visitors: several visitors including Chuck & Barb Kaurik
Weather: moderate west winds with occasional gusts to 20mph;partly cloudy with valley haze all day;dry; 60-75F
Raptor Observations: 10 migrating BWs as well as 1 "local"SS & 1 "local"CH
Non-raptor Observations: TVs,crows,ravens,jays,robins,E bluebirds,t swallows,bc chickadees,t titmice,wb nuthatches,1 rb nuthatch,towhees,1 phoebe,brown headed cowbirds,m doves,red-bellied wp,N flicker,3 C geese. Also tiger & black swallowtails,c whites,o sulfurs.
Predictions: light to mod S/SE winds but showers & rain likely throughout the day;50-60F ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Eli Hevalow, Lauren Stanfa
Weather: Partly sunny at the start of the day to overcast and partly cloudy, light winds all day
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Predictions: Friday - light NE wind Saturday - rain, Apr 25 usually being the last day of the season Monday - tentatively plan to extend the season to include this day with favorable SSE wind ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, Red-breasted nuthatches,, T titmice, A robins, E bluebirds, Tree swallows, M Doves, E Towhees, N cardinals, Red-bellied and Pileated wp, N Flickers, Blue Jays, A Crows, C Ravens, BH cowbirds, A goldfinch, RB Kinglets, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black and white Warbler, Wild turkey
Predictions: Partly cloudy, NW winds, high near 21C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Ezra Murray
Counters: Zachary Underwoood
Weather: Sunny NW 5-10 73
Raptor Observations: First Red Shoulder Hawk of season, Great Horned Owl heard, and multiple local Bald Eagles and Red-Tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: Big push of Blue Jays in morning Great Horned Owl heard ======================================================================== 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: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Ken Bowman, Thomas Filip
Observers: Connor Schmitt, Nick Bolgiano, Tom Filip
Weather: Partly cloudy with SW winds gradually shifting to WNW by the end of the day. Wind was mostly 3-8mph but increased in the last couple of hours to 12-16mph. Low of 8℃, high of 24℃.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA spotted today.
Other migrating raptors include 2 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 7 RTHA, 49 BWHA, 1 SSHA, 1 COHA, and 5 TUVU.
Decent day despite less than ideal winds. Most of the raptors were seen in the morning when the wind was still SW/WSW. After it shifted the W, the action dropped off very quickly.
5 COLO flyovers today, all single birds. 4 DCCO in one flock. The morning flight was a little disappointing given how many birds flew over last night, probably due to the rain at dawn that made many put down early. Passerine flyovers include 7 TRES, 1 BARS, 7 PUFI, and 24 AGOL.
Some new local birds were seen and heard today including a PRAW and an OVEN. The PRAW landed in a bush a few feet away and sang for us repeatedly.
Predictions: Sunny with low NW winds the whole day. Doesn't look to be a great day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Predictions: light to moderate SW winds;clear to p. cloudy;dry with temps 50-75F ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Lauren Stanfa
Weather: Started off foggy then transitioned to partly cloudy by the late afternoon. winds were light from the southwest.
Raptor Observations: Many local raptors flew by the lookout, including one adult bald eagle and one immature bald eagle, a Cooper's hawk, a couple red tailed hawks, and the usual 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: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 7.83 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano, Thomas Filip
Observers: Debra Rittlemann, Jon Kauffman, Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano, Tom Filip
Weather: Mostly sunny with SSW wind at 5-10mph. Low of 4℃, high of 18℃.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA spotted today.
Other migrating raptors include 2 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 3 RTHA, 10 BWHA, 1 SSHA, and 1 MERL.
Spotting was difficult today with most of the raptors being high up against the clear blue sky. The wind didn't really cooperate with us either and did not get as strong as we thought, which probably led to a weaker flight than what we hoped for. The SSHA we spotted was very high up and we only saw it because it was going after a RTHA that we were already looking at. I'm sure there were other small raptors too high to see with binoculars.
A slow day for flyovers which included 4 COLO, 2 CHSW, 4 EUST, 1 AMRO, and 5 AGOL.
Predictions: Cloudy and 2-4mph SW wind shifting to partly cloudy and 8-11mph WNW wind by the end of the day. Not great conditions, but today's wind could have brought some migrants closer to us that we may see tomorrow. ======================================================================== 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: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard, Katie Andersen
Visitors: Julie Leonard and I were the sky watchers today with Katie Andersen coming a later to assist.
Weather: Clear early then becoming cloudy, then clearing again in mid-afternoon. Seasonably warm with an all-day steady SSW wind
Raptor Observations: A slow start until it warmed, then numbers of BWs increased and were fairly steady through the day. Despite the strong south winds birds did not have defined flight line and were scattered across a wide front, though all were within 1/2 mile of the lake. They flew at all altitudes with some flying almost out of binocular range.
Non-raptor Observations: Belted Kingfisher 1, Common Loon 1, Purple Martin 4, Great Egret 2, Barn swallow, Tree Swallow, American Crow, European Starling Mourning Dove, Rock Pigeon, Herring and Ring-billed Gull, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin
Predictions: Warm, but the WNW winds will keep any migrants south of our site.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers: Greg Gdula
Visitors: Greg Gdula
Weather: Light to moderate SSE winds, average temperature was 5 (C). Visibility was clear up to 71 (KM).
Raptor Observations: 30 raptors counted including 1 adult golden eagle at 12:31 two bald eagles going south not included in daily count.
Non-raptor Observations: Clouded sulphers and tiger swallowtail butterfly's. Turkeys ,ravens,blue birds, doves, red bellied woodpecker, black caped chicadees. downy woodpeckers. tufted titmouse, blue jays, brown headed cowbirds, robins, northern cardinals, towhees, tree swallows, 6 commorants, local tv's.
Predictions: Temperatures 40 to 60 degrees.40%chance of rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Eli Hevalow
Counters: Diolinda Mundoza, Eli Hevalow
Weather:
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: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers:
Visitors: 0
Weather: Mostly cloudy with breaks of sun and periodic snow. Winds WSW with gusts up to 25 mph. Temps cold-snow on front that melted off around 10a bird time.
Raptor Observations: TV's flew around valley and a pair of BW's not migrating. 2 RT's in north end of valley not migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: Red bellied and downy wp, flickers, blue birds, chickadees, nuthatches, tufted titmouse, robins, towhee pair, phoebe, cardinal, mourning dove, ravens, cowbirds, tree sparrow, ruby crowned kinglets, crows, gray squirrel, wild turkeys, 2 gulls, 2 loons.
Predictions: SW winds, sunny, temps starting in 30's up to low 50's in the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Ezra Murray
Counters: Zachary Underwoood
Weather: Mostly sunny high of 48 NW 5-15 mph winds
LIGHT flurries seen in AM
Raptor Observations: 2 local Black Vultures, 1 local Red-Tailed Hawk kiting for a good portion of the day, and 3 local Bald Eagles (1 Adult and 2 Immatures.
Non-raptor Observations: Loons passing over and calling during the morning. Ravens spent the afternoon close by. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Erika Bowman
Observers:
Visitors: Randy Pepple, Steve Smith
Weather: Snow, sleet and rain off and on until 11:30. The clouds finally broke and then the winds picked up to >20 mph.
Raptor Observations: 2 Broad-winged Hawks and Osprey flew East. A Sharp-shinned flew South. A Red-tailed and 3 Turkey Vultures flew around the valley. Nothing headed North.
Non-raptor Observations: M Dove, DB Cormorant, Red-bellied WP, Downy WP, Hairy WP, Blue-headed Vireo, C Raven, BC Chickadee, T Titmouse, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, WB Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, E Bluebird, A Robin, Chipping SP, E Towhee, Brown-headed Cowbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Warbler, N Cardinal
Predictions: Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 41F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Bowman (<dizzechick...>)
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers:
Weather: Moderate NW winds in the morning at 9-13mph, after 13:00 the wind quickly picked up and was 18-22mph when I left. Cloudy in the morning, partly sunny in the afternoon. There was a snow/hail squall around 11:55 that lasted for about half an hour. Low of 4�C, high of 8�C.
Other migrating raptors include 1 BAEA, 1 RTHA, and 6 BWHA.
It seems low thermals discouraged many BWHA from coming through today, but the 2 GOEA did not seem to mind the conditions. Both were much lower than the ones in the past few days, offering nice looks. No raptors were seen after the snow squall cleared, despite the clouds clearing as well. The wind was getting very strong when I left, perhaps too strong for even the eagles to fly in.
Not too many flyovers today. 3 loons flew over at 13:41. They seemed to have some trouble flying in the strong winds. Besides the loons, only 10 AGOL flyovers.
Predictions: NW wind again at 10-13mph, partly sunny. If the skies are more clear in the morning then they were today there might be more BWHA action, but I don't expect any more than we've been getting in the past week. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 4/19/26 3:52 pm From: Wayne Laubscher <000001f695296b94-dmarc-request...> Subject: American Avocets at Ohl/McElhatten Reservoir, Loganton, Clinton Co. 4/19
David Rothrock and Amos Hershberger just reported 28 American Avocets at the Ohl/McElhatten Reservoir near Loganton. This is the second county record. The previous record was one at this same location.
Wayne Laubscher Lock Haven Clinton Co. <wnlaubscher...> "Owl be back"
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers: Adam Katrancha, Bill Cline, Bob Stewart, Dave Poder, Greg Gdula
Visitors: Leo Kaleugher and Vincent Lucci (both part of Freedom Area High School Naturalist Club), St. Vincent College (Dr. Jim Kellan, Will Toret, Rachel Sarareri, Jacob Nobili), Robin Henley, Doug Henley
Weather: South/southeast wind in the morning with full sun and warm temperatures. As the day progressed, the southeast winds became stronger with a beautiful clouded background. A great day for Raptorthon!
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: 9:13 GE Adult, 2:39 Juvenile Bald Eagles: 9:23 Adult, 1:59 Subadult, 1:59 Subadult, 2:26 Sub II, 2:29 Subadult, 2:33 Sub I
Several accipiters throughout the day that were not migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Chipping Sparrow, Chimney Swift, Common Raven, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern Towhee, Field Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Northern Flicker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Tree Swallow, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch, Yellow-rumped Warbler
19 Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, 2 Black Swallowtail, 3 Spicebush Swallowtail, 1 Mourning Cloak, 12 Cabbage White 1 Orange Sulfur
Predictions: Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Cooler. High 52F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Ken Bowman
Weather: SE wind at 9-13 mph when I arrived, S at 14-20mph quickly for most of the day. Mostly sunny with cloud cover increasing gradually. Low of 17℃, high of 30℃.
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 2 RTHA, 45 BWHA, 1 SSHA, 1 NOHA, and 1 TUVU.
Relatively low movement given seemingly perfect conditions. There was some decent movement in the morning but it seemed like everything came to a stop after 12:00. I was ready to call it after 2 hours with no raptors, but luckily I stuck around for longer and was rewarded with a GOEA. I was recording weather data at the time when I noticed a group of TUVU acting scared, looked up, and saw a very high GOEA going NE over the ridge. Definitely one of the highest GOEA we've had so far, I am always impressed these vultures can sense them so high up from so far away. Less exciting, we hit 200 TUVU today.
25 COLO seen in the morning, much less than yesterday even though conditions were much better today. Also 7 DCCO. Decent passerine flight with 43 BLJA, 1 TRES, 2 NRWS, 1 BARS, 1 AMRO, 1 HOFI, 14 PUFI, 79 AGOL, 2 PISI, 1 RWBL, and 15 YRWA.
Predictions: Cloudy with NW wind in the morning, mostly cloudy with WNW wind in the afternoon. Not sure what to expect as these are not as good winds as today, but today's winds could have brought raptors closer that will be eager to move tomorrow. ======================================================================== 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: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Ezra Murray
Counters: Eli Hevalow
Weather: Cloudy AM/mostly sunny in afternoon high of 72 SW winds 5-10m
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/18/26 12:27 pm 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.Thanks Steve Boyle for leading.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, USApr 18, 2026 7:34 AM - 10:09 AM
Protocol: TravelingParticipants: 12
0.962 mile(s)
30 species
Canada Goose 3
Wood Duck 2
Mallard 3
Double-crested Cormorant 1
Great Blue Heron 3
Turkey Vulture 1
Bald Eagle 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 2
Northern Flicker 1
Blue Jay 2
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 12
Purple Martin 3
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 3
Carolina Wren 3
American Robin 14
House Sparrow 4
American Goldfinch 5
Chipping Sparrow 1
White-throated Sparrow 7
Song Sparrow 1
Red-winged Blackbird 8
Brown-headed Cowbird 3
Rusty Blackbird 1
Common Yellowthroat 6
Pine Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 6
Northern Cardinal 3
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard, Michele Franz, Roger Donn
Visitors: I had lots of welcomed help today spotting birds and keeping track of numbers of individuals. We had a couple of clickers going, but some of the kettles were too big to click-off. Assistants today included Julie Leonard, Roger Donn, and Michele Franz. Other visitors and spotters were Katie Andersen, Randy Donn, Doug Massey, and Jane Ross
Weather: Cloudy with a strong SSW wind and continued warmer than average temps.
Raptor Observations: Rain was predicted this morning with steady showers in the PM, so I thought today's watch was going to be a 'washout' However, the rain held off until the 1230 EST hour. Therefore, we had a pretty active morning and early afternoon, though not the big BW bonanza we were hoping for, with the flight holding strong near the lake the entire time. There was a fair movement of SS from 0900 to the 1100 hr. then the BWs really started kicking in coming in low and overhead early then rising so high, I am sure we missed a bunch. Just before the rain came there was a steady movement of TVs. At 1220 EST the winds shifted to the west, rain started, and the temp dropped rapidly ending today's flight.
Non-raptor Observations: The first Chimney Swift of the season passed through and there was a movement of Blue Jays and cowbirds, along with a mix of other blackbirds. 33 Double-crested Cormorant's were counted. There were a couple of Killdeer and an unidentified shorebird as well.
Predictions: Much cooler with west winds and some sun. A lakeshore flight, not likelyJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Ken Bowman
Weather: One of the nicest days we've had in terms of weather in awhile. NW wind in the morning started at 6-8mph, rose to 8-12mph at 10:00, at which point the wind shifted NNW and gradually lowered to 4-7mph by the end of the day. Mostly cloudy in the morning, partly sunny in the afternoon. Low of 16℃, high of 27℃.
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 3 RTHA, 1 RSHA, 40 BWHA, 1 COHA, 2 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
A nice day despite northerly winds. The majority of raptors seen today were in the morning. I suspect today's movement had more to do with yesterday afternoon's SSW wind, which may have brought raptors close to Tussey then.
Both GOEA were spotted by Ken today, and I didn't get to see either of them. The first he spotted about half an hour before I arrived. The second one he spotted at the same time I spotted TUVU. I was confused at first why he was calling the TUVU a GOEA until we realized we were looking at different birds, but by then the GOEA had passed. Thank goodness Ken was here today to pick up my slack.
A surprisingly good loon day, considering all of our previous good loon days have been on S or SSE wind. We had 107 COLO flyovers, a high count for the season, with the largest flock today being 23. A few flew directly overhead, low enough that we could hear their wing beats.
In the afternoon I spotted an AHGU, the first of the season. 4 CHSW were spotted today, another first of the season. Passerine flyovers include 9 BLJA, 1 TRES, 2 PUFI, and 28 AGOL.
There were 2 WIWR on the trail just behind the watch today, which were also first for the season, one of which I flushed out from under a rock by the trail.
Predictions: SE wind in the morning, S in the afternoon with rain starting sometime between 2-5 PM. SE/S wind is good and these big shifts in wind direction between days seem to bring a good number of raptors our way. There could be some good movement tomorrow before the rain hits. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Sandy Cline
Observers:
Visitors: Steve Smith Ed Smith 4 others
Weather: Strong W winds, consistent average in AM at 18mph, temp topped at 66F
Raptor Observations: ML below edge of escarpment at 11:30
Non-raptor Observations: Many passerines! Bluebirds, Towhees, Field Sparrow, WB Nuthatch, Junco, Downy WP, Flicker, BC Chickadee, Brown headed Cowbirds, Mourning Dove, T Titmouse, Chipping sparrow, Robins, Crows, N Cardinal, A Goldfinch
Predictions: Mostly cloudy and very warm, winds out of the S/SE ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sandy Cline (<horseldy...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Eli Hevalow
Weather: Mostly sunny, short burst of light rain. calm northeast winds.
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 4 RTHA, 17 BWHA, 1 SSHA, and 1 COHA, 1 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
Just like today, our GOEA today came through fast and high up. Thermals seemed even stronger than yesterday and I suspect there were a few more raptors in the afternoon that were so high I couldn't spot them. Most of the BWHA that I spotted today were in the morning.
Our local BWHA was seen fighting migrants and at one point got physical with another BWHA.
A fun day for finches. I had 59 PUFI and 129 AGOL flyovers, both high counts for the season. 2 HOFI and 4 PISI also flew over. Other passerine flyovers include 20 BLJA, 1 PUMA, 1 TRES, 2 NRWS, 4 BARS, 2 EABL, 1 COGR, and 5 YRWA. Also 17 DCCO.
Notable local birds include 2 BHVI, 1 RBNU, 2 BAWW, 2 BTNW, 1 PIWA, and 1 YRWA. The raven was seen carrying food towards its nest again and one of the MODO was seen doing a display flight several times.
Predictions: Partly cloudy with low NW/NNW winds. Unless there's an unexpected shift in weather, it doesn't look like it will be a good day for raptors. ======================================================================== 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: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Nancy Ott
Visitors: Two
Weather: Mostly sunny, moderate SW winds, visibility 30km, warm - temps 20.7C to 25C
Raptor Observations: 3 TV, 1 CH, 1 BW, 2 RT, 1 UR
A few local TVs and RTs
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos, A robins, E bluebirds, Tree swallows, M Doves, E Towhees, N cardinals, Red-bellied and Pileated wp, Blue Jays, A Crows, C Ravens, N Flicker, RW Blackbird, BH cowbirds, A goldfinch, RB Kinglets, Brown Thrasher, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Pine Warbler
Predictions: Mostly cloudy, NW winds, high near 19C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Compiler: Ezra Murray
Counters: Zachary Underwoood
Weather: Mostly sunny high of 86. SW winds 5-15mph
Raptor Observations: 2 local Bald Eagles (one 2nd year and one 4th year) and 2 local Red-Tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/16/26 12:05 pm From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: RBA western Pennsylvania, 7 April 2026
**apologies if this duplicates-my usual method of posting directly from the PABirds website has been coming to me "undeliverable".**
RBA
*Pennsylvania
*Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania
*PAWE04.07.26
Highlights:
TRUMPETER SWAN
RED-NECKED GREBE
FORSTER'S TERN
COMMON TERN
CASPIAN TERN
RED-THROATED LOON
AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN (Erie County)
AMERICAN BITTERN
YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Westmoreland County)
NORTHERN SHRIKE
FISH CROW (Somerset County)
LAPLAND LONGSPUR
VESPER SPARROW (Warren County)
RUSTY BLACKBIRD
PAINTED BUNTING (Allegheny County)
RED CROSSBILL (Forest County)
Contributors: Henry Bernhardt, Aaron Graham, Mark Hanneman, Rob Hodgson, Matt Juskowich, James Kellam, Meg Kolodick, Jorden Lehman, Nick Logan, Alejandra MacNeil, Adam Maddy, Doug Massey, Jerry McWilliams, Elizabeth Nicholson, Randy Sanner, Barry Saylor, Linda Sporrer, Jerry Stanley, Randy Stringer, Mark Vass, Cheri Widzowski, Michael Williams, Carole Winslow, Eric Yanyo.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 31 March 2026 through Tuesday, 7 April 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: LONG-TAILED DUCK, SURF SCOTER, NORTHERN PINTAIL, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, LESSER YELLOWLEGS, GREAT EGRET, BLACK VULTURE, ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, BROAD-WINGED HAWK, PINE SISKIN, PINE WARBLER continue to be reported.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
On 4/3 and 4/6 in the Squirrel Hill area, 1 PAINTED BUNTING (MV et. al.).
In Clairton on 4/4, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN (MJ).
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
Along Deer Run Trail on 4/2, 1 TRUMPETER SWAN (JL).
On 4/2 at State Gamelands #214, 1 TRUMPETER SWAN (RH).
At Conneaut Marsh on 4/3, 1 RED-NECKED GREBE (MW).
On 4/3-4/4 at Pymatuning, RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS (MH).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle this week, sightings included 1-3 AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS (via Ebird), 3 COMMON TERNS (4/2) (HB), MERLIN, RUSTY BLACKBIRD, HORNED LARKS (JM), 2 LAPLAND LONGSPURS (4/3) (DM).
FOREST COUNTY:
At Buzzard Swamp on 4/4, 1 NORTHERN SHRIKE (CW).
On 4/4 along Blue Jay Creek, 5 RED CROSSBILLS (AM).
INDIANA COUNTY:
At Yellow Creek State Park on 4/2, 1 FORSTER'S TERN (NL), 1 RED-THROATED LOON (CW); on 4/5, 1 CASPIAN TERN (EY).
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
On 4/6 along Five Bridges Trail, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN (BS).
MERCER COUNTY:
Near Grove City on 4/1, 50-60 LAPLAND LONGSPURS (RSt).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
In Windber on 4/2 and 4/5, 2 FISH CROWS (AM, AG et. al.).
VENANGO COUNTY:
East of Oil City on 3/31, 1 RED-HEADED WOODPECKER (MK).
On 4/2 at Kahle Lake, sightings included 2 WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS (JS).
WARREN COUNTY:
On 4/3 near Triumph, 1 VESPER SPARROW (EN).
In Tidioute on 4/5, 75+ BONAPARTE'S GULLS, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER (CW).
WASHINGTON COUNTY:
Near Gastonville on 4/1, 2 flyover SANDHILL CRANES (LS).
WESTMORELAND COUNTY:
At Keystone State Park on 4/3, 1 CACKLING GOOSE (RSa).
On 4/5 in a Bovard backyard, 1 YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (JKe).
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 11:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Sam Stull
Visitors: Sam Stull and I manned the watch today. Visitors included Michele Franz and Jimmy Mars.
Weather: Same as yesterday with variably cloudy skies and unseasonably warm, but a wind shift from the SW to the west.
Raptor Observations: There was burst of activity between the 0900 EST and 1000 EST hour when a couple of nice groups of BWs passed through and a bit of an uptick in vulture numbers from yesterday. Unfortunately, heavier cloud cover and wind off the lake shut the lakeshore flight down at the top of the 1100 EST hour.
Non-raptor Observations: Indigo Bunting 1, Tree Swallow, the first flight of Blue Jays for the season with about 150 passing through, Killdeer 2, Double-crested Cormorant 16, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, European Starling, Northern Flicker, American CrowJerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: watch started at 9:15 am est after morning shower stopped. Moderate wind out of the west. Some sun and clouds. Cloud cover at start was 20% increasing to 85% in the afternoon. Unseasonably warm, 80 degrees F. Hazy, visibility 30 km to 44 km.
Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors observes. Non-migrants included: Turkey Vultures, 1 Black Vulture with 3 other Turkey Vultures, broad-winged hawk, red-tailed hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: towhee, bluebirds, purple finch, tufted titmouse, ruby-crowned kinglet, cowbird, black-capped chicadee, chipping sparrow, field sparrow, mourning dove, white-breasted nuthatch, phoebe, black eyed junco, downy woodpecker, n. cardinal.
Predictions: Clouds and sun. High 80 degrees F. Wind out of the WSW 10-20 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bstewart...>)
Other migrating raptors include 3 RTHA, 1 RSHA, 8 BWHA, 1 SSHA, 1 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
The GOEA today was very high up and almost snuck through as it quickly flew past overhead. Most of the other raptors today were also high up due to strong thermals. The other notable sighting today was a distant unidentified accipitrine that gave me a strong impression of an immature AGOS.
A local BWHA seems to have set up shop near the hawk watch. I spotted one take off while walking on the trail and saw and heard it a few times later throughout the day.
13 DCCO today, one flock of 2 and one of 11. Decent finch numbers today, with multiple small flocks for a total of 9 PUFI and 27 AGOL. Also 2 RWSW, 3 BARS, 3 AMRO, and 2 YRWA.
Predictions: Partly cloudy with SW/WSW winds starting low in the morning and increasing throughout the day. SW and WSW wind can be hard to predict but we could see a modest flight in the afternoon. ======================================================================== 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: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Lauren Stanfa
Weather: Partly cloudy with light winds coming from the West. Max. temperature was 30 degrees Celsius.
Raptor Observations: The resident bald eagle was spotted a few times from the lookout along with a couple red-tailed hawks and Accipitrines. One osprey flew overhead at the end of the day heading south. There was also a broad-winged hawk that flew out from behind the lookout and went S.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: none
Weather: Near carbon copy of yesterday, but the wind shifted around from the SW to the west much sooner than yesterday. Continued unseasonably warm.
Raptor Observations: Other than one kettle of BWs, the skies were pretty quiet.
Non-raptor Observations: There was a good movement of Double-crested Cormorants with 130 counted. Other birds recorded were Tree swallow, Northern Flicker, American robin, Blue Jay, Herring and Ring-billed gull, American Crow, Brown-headeed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Red-winged Blackbird, Mourning Dove, Rock Pigeon.
Jerry McWilliams Erie, Erie County, Pa. <jerrymcw...>
Bake Oven Knob 2 miles North of Germansville, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Apr 14, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Rick Morrissey
Observers: Brett White, Doug Burton, Ed Sinkler, Michele Varricchio
Visitors: First things first, our BOK 'A' team observers today by order of appearance, Doug Burton (Butterfly Whisper), Brett White - our new Fall weekend counter and educator, Ed Sinkler - Quality Control Manager, Michele Varricchio - Director of Talent Management, Acquistions, and Retention: Jeff Hopkins - BOK hawk counter emeritus, and Kathy Romano who tended the LGNC native garden in the morning, helped us on the ridge, then checked on the some possible nesting Falcons in the afternoon (just another day supporting the environment).
We had a great conversation with Justin from Allentown with his 3 month old son Theoden (Teddy). Welcome young Teddy to Bake Oven Knob! We also had 16 additional visitors for a total of 18.
Weather: Partly cloudy with plentiful sunshine, with haze limiting visibility to about 20 miles. Wind speeds were 1-3 mph early in the day, increasing to 4-7 mph with gusts up to 12 mph in the afternoon. Morning light winds were from the Southwest, changing to West Southwest in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: We started the count on the South lookout picking up a few Broadwings, 1 to 2 at a time. At 1029 EST we had an immature Bald Eagle flying high on the south slope headed west. Late morning before noon, based on some great 'intel' we moved the count to the north slope directly across from the normal South lookout. In about 90 minutes we observed 40 of the total 49 Broadwings that were flying directly over the north slope of the ridge, giving us warbler neck seeing most between branches. In twenty plus years of counting, unprecedented!
At 1300 EST, we moved back to the traditional South lookout and spotted two more high flying, single Broadwings and ended the count at 1415 EST.
At 1408 EST while packing up, a low flying large raptor was spotted in the 'bowl.' This non-migrating Bald Eagle flew by the South slope and then down ridge headed West. Not counted yet this was a great look that lifted our spirits and gave us a 'skip in our steps' as we walked down the trail to the parking lot. A slow day leaving on a high note, spending the day with good friends, some who I have done this 'gig' with for almost twenty years, some who I recently met. I'd do this for free. Actually, we are all volunteers, it is just what we do!
Predictions: Mostly sunny, hot with highs in the upper 80's. Winds will be Southwest 10 to 15 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Lehigh Gap Nature Center (<mail...>) Bake Oven Knob information may be found at: www.lgnc.org
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers: Greg Gdula
Visitors: Greg Gdula helped with spotting Blue birds took a likeing to Gregs truck side mirrows
Weather: Winds from the SW. Average temperature 19 (C). Cloud cover 100% down to 75%.Visibility was clear up to 30 km with a haze in the early morning.
Raptor Observations: 13 Raptors counted for the including 2 adult bald eagles at 11:23. One adult seen but not counted in the report it was heading south.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue birds, bc chicadees, northern cardinal, tree sparrows, gold finches, local tv's, eastern towhees, tufted titmouse, red winged blackbird, red bellied woodpecker, downy woodpecker,juncos, crowa, tree swallows, robins, ravens, blue jays ,doves. Cabbage whites, clouded sulphers, tiger swallowtails,black swallowtails, spring ashure, viceroy
Predictions: South winds with possible thunder storms ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Date: 4/14/26 2:35 pm From: DAVID KOCH <0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> Subject: Hummingbird Northampton county Koch property
At 5:30 today, April 14, I just had an adult male ruby-throated hummer at the front window feeder. I may not see him or another one for a long time but that’s ok. Yah!!!
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Bernie O'Connor, Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors: Bernie O'Connor and Julie Leonard assisted with the count during the early part of the count.
Weather: Variably cloudy with strong SW wind and later becoming westerly. Unseasonably warm
Raptor Observations: Very little movement this morning, but I went back out a little later after a storm had passed and there was mini movement of BWs coming in high overhead. Vulture movement was light but steady. When the winds shifted to the west at about 1245 EST the lakeshore flight shut down.
Non-raptor Observations: Purple Martin 1, Tree Swallow, Northern Flicker, Double-crested Cormorant 110, Wood Duck 2, Canada Goose 1, Herring and Ring-billed gulls, Rock Pigeon 20, Mourning Dove, Great Blue Heron 1
Predictions: 90% chance of rain and thunderstorms with SW wind. Could be birds moving between storms. I think the big BW flight could happen any day now with favorable conditions.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Eli Hevalow
Counters: Diolinda Mundoza
Weather:
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: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Jim Rocco
Visitors: 0
Weather: Stared with drizzle of rain and cloudy , WSW winds, then becoming partly cloudy and clear with temps 60's to 70's.
Raptor Observations: In the first hour while sprinkles of rain and strong west winds 7 BW's went over across watch then NNE. most of hawks were barely visible naked eye high in sky. UF flew fast lower directly over watch but against light gray sky with no visible colors or markings. Late in day 1 C flew south and a SS flew into ridge non migrating.
Predictions: Cloudy, W winds, precipitation around 4p. Temps 70's. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Raptor Observations: Local Juvenile Bald Eagle and local Red-Tailed Hawk. 2 migrating Broad-Winged Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 10:30:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: Sue Murowski
Weather: Strong wind mainly out of the west and unseasonably warm. A mix of clouds and sun
Raptor Observations: Only a few TVs the first our then only two TVs the final half hour. All but four were flying rather low. With the mostly west wind the flight line was centered over West 6th Street.
Non-raptor Observations: The usual local birds.
Predictions: Weather conditions nearly identical to today with a continued westerly component to the winds along the lake, pushing any migrants south and out of view from our watch site. Greater chance of strong thunderstorms. Gotta keep checking with this warm, south air. A BW flight could kick into gear anytime, I just hope we get more southerly winds to push them to the lakeshore.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Weather: Sunny with SE winds when I arrived, shifted to S by 11:00 and cloud cover gradually increased throughout the day. Wind speed was generally 12-18mph with some stronger gusts up to 21 mph. Low of 9.5℃, high of 23℃.
Other migrating raptors include 4 OSPR, 2 BAEA, 14 RTHA, 74 BWHA, 4 SSHA, 1 COHA, 1 NOHA, 9 TUVU, 5 AMKE, and 1 MERL.
At 10:26, I spotted an adult GOEA soaring and gaining elevation on the S side of the ridge. As I was looking at the eagle, a family just happened to walk through at the right time. The eagle was higher than when I initially spotted it, but they were still able to see it with the naked eye as it crossed over the ridge and flew N. As it happens, it was Nolan's (the dad's) birthday, I'm glad he and his family got to see a GOEA today. The second GOEA was a juvenile and came through much more quickly.
Despite great conditions, we were only getting a few raptors every hour in the morning and midday. It wasn't until 15:00 that we had a burst of activity, mainly BWHA which started to trickle in every few minutes until sunset. The other notable sighting today was a MERL which we heard calling first (perhaps in annoyance to our presence) and then spotted going N over the ridge. Our last MERL was over a month ago on March 8th. We also reached 200 RTHA for the season today.
We had a relatively low number of COLO flyovers today with just 7 considering the good conditions. It seems like we hit our big loon day last Thursday.
There were 33 DCCO today between 2 flocks and 3 GBHE, both high counts for season. Passerine flyovers today include 3 TRES, 2 AMRO, 1 PUFI, 1 PISI, 4 AGOL, and 1 COGR.
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with low SW winds in the morning and moderate WSW wind in the afternoon. SW winds won't be as good as today's S wind, but given that the BWHA today were coming through until sunset and that we are getting close to the peak BWHA season, we could see some decent movement tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Thomas Filip () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Wild Turkey, M Dove, DC Cormorant, N Flicker, A Crow, C Raven, BC Chickadee, T Titmouse, Tree Swallow, WB Nuthatch, E Bluebird, A Goldfinch, Chipping Sp, Field, Sp, DE Junco, E Towhee, BH Cowbird, N Cardinal
Predictions: Rain showers early with overcast skies later in the day. High near 70F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 40%. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Bowman (<dizzechick...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Diolinda Mundoza
Counters: Andy Price, Zachary Underwoood
Weather:
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: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: none
Weather: Mostly cloudy with a steady south wind with a modest temperature.
Raptor Observations: Very little movement.
Non-raptor Observations: First of the season Purple Martins. Two males passed over the watch. Other birds observed: One male Indigo Bunting, Great Blue heron 1, Canada Goose 3, Wild Turkey 1, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Robin, American Crow, Ring-billed and Herring gull, Tree Swallow, Mourning Dove, Rock Pigeon 1, Wood Duck 1
Predictions: The winds will be right, but showers expected in the morning, then remaining cloudy the remainder of the day. Don't expect a flight but will probably check it out anyway in case there is a break in the weather.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano, Thomas Filip
Observers: Tom Filip
Weather: NW winds at 8-12mph and partly cloudy in the morning, 10-15mph and sunny in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Migrating raptors today include 2 BAEA, 1 RLHA, 2 RTHA, 3 BWHA, 1 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
At 11:21, I spotted a large buteo on the N side of the ridge and quickly got in the scope. I was pleasantly surprised to find a RLHA instead of a RTHA in view. It wasn't too far or high up and gave me a nice look as it drifted SW along the ridge. Looked like an adult female light morph. This isn't the latest spring record for a RLHA at Tussey, but it is still pretty late.
Only a few passerine flyovers today, probably due to starting later. A BARS came in low through the power line cut while calling, the first for the season. 1 PUFI, 3 AGOL, and 1 BHCO were also seen.
Predictions: Partly cloudy with 6-10mph SE winds in the morning shifting to 11-13mph S winds in the afternoon. These are promising conditions, tomorrow could be a good day. ======================================================================== 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: 5 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers:
Visitors: Richard Miller Jr., Richard Miller III, Heather Lapinski, Matt Gladis, John and Jen
Weather: Overcast, chilly, and a northwest wind in the morning. Turning sunny and warmer throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: An adult male Cooper�s Hawk scattered the birds near the picnic table and flew just above the ground across the field.
A second year Bald Eagle flew over the site but did not migrate.
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Canada Goose, Chipping Sparrow, Common Raven, Dark-eyed Junco, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern Towhee, Field Sparrow, Hermit Thrush, Northern Cardinal, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Song Sparrow, Tree Swallow, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch
3 Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, 1 Black Swallowtail, 1 Mourning Cloak, 5 Cabbage White
Predictions: A mix of clouds and sun early, then becoming cloudy later in the day. Much warmer. High 73F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. Could be a good day! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Lauren Stanfa, Scott Morrison
Weather: Overcast at the beginning of the day turning to sunny by the afternoon. Moderate winds out of the North for the whole day.
Raptor Observations: The resident bald eagle had a territorial dispute with a red-tailed hawk early in the morning then chased off a Cooper's hawk. Both resident bald eagles and red-tailed hawks frequently flew around the overlook.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/11/26 7:52 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.First of the season Palm Warblers and an early Gray Catbird...Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, USApr 11, 2026 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Participants: 10Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
35 species
Canada Goose 5
Wood Duck 5
Mallard 4
Mourning Dove 3
American Coot 1
Double-crested Cormorant 5
Great Blue Heron 2
Osprey 2
Cooper's Hawk 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 4
Downy Woodpecker 3
Northern Flicker 2
Blue Jay 5
Carolina Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 3
Tree Swallow 15
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 3
White-breasted Nuthatch 2
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 2
Carolina Wren 4
European Starling 4
Gray Catbird 1 Robin sized bird with rufous color under the tail
American Robin 12
House Sparrow 6
House Finch 3
American Goldfinch 4
Dark-eyed Junco 1
White-throated Sparrow 6
Song Sparrow 2
Red-winged Blackbird 25
Brown-headed Cowbird 6
Rusty Blackbird 4
Palm Warbler 4
Yellow-rumped Warbler 3
Northern Cardinal 5
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Sunny with moderate 8-12mph S winds in the morning gradually shifting to SSW by noon. Around 13:00, the winds quickly shifted westward to SW and by the end of the day NW. A warm day with a Low of 12℃ and a high of 29℃.
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 7 RTHA, 12 BWHA, 4 SSHA, 1 COHA, 2 TUVU, and 1 AMKE.
An unexpectedly good day for GOEA, our first was a sub-adult that came through early in the day. This one was #213 (and my personal #200 for the season), which makes this season's count the third highest for Tussey. Later at 11:56, we had 2 fly through at the same time. Flying high up on the S side, they did not delay and flew straight through. We barely managed to age one of them as an immature. We also had 12 BWHA, a high count so far. Hopefully this number will pale in comparison to the number we get next week.
14 COLO seen today, lower than the past couple of days despite similarly good conditions in the morning. We may have hit our big loon day for the season yesterday.
We also had 2 DCCO and 1 KILL flyover. For passerine flyovers, we had good diversity with 3 NRWS (first of the season), 1 AMRO, 1 HOFI, 3 PUFI, 1 PISI, 5 AGOL, 13 BHCO, and 5 RUBL.
We had some interesting local bird observations today. A BHVI was heard singing nearby, the first of the season. A flock of BCCH was heard singing past noon, perhaps they are finally splitting up and claiming territory. It seems the CORA nest has nestlings now. A CORA was seen carrying food twice today. This is the third day in the past week that I have seen them carrying food and it is always in the same direction (ESE over the ridge), which is also where I saw them carrying nest material the first day of the hawk watch.
Predictions: Sunny with NNW/NW winds at 8-9mph tomorrow. So far NW winds have not been too good for raptor migration in the second half of the season. ======================================================================== 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: Sandy Cline
Observers:
Visitors: Joni & Wayne Duppstadt, Terry Suter, 3 others
Weather: Sunny but with haze on horizon, 60F to start and ended at 75F, SW winds increasing, with gusts, as day went by
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations: A Robin, BC Chickadee, E Bluebirds, E Towhee, Tufted Titmouse, Mourning Doves, crows, Chipping Sparrow, N Cardinals, Tree Swallows, Blue Jays, YS flickers, Juncos, WB Nuthatch, Field Sparrow, TVs
Predictions: Partly cloudy, not as warm with NW winds ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sandy Cline (<horseldy...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Zachary Underwood
Counters: Diolinda Mundoza
Weather: Overcast/fog, with Little to no visibility in the early morning followed by partly cloudy and clear skies. Calm winds from the south.
Raptor Observations: 3 Local Bald Eagles, 4 local Red-Tailed Hawks, and 1 migratory Broad-Winged Hawk.
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: 09:30:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams
Visitors: Carol Allen
Weather: Variably cloudy early then becoming cloudy, SW wind switching to west wind. Continued unseasonably warm.
Raptor Observations: As expected not much happening. Even the few vultures seen were taking their time moving through.
Non-raptor Observations: A rather early male Indigo Bunting passed overhead. Other birds recorded were Canada Goose 3, Great Blue Heron 1, Northern Flickers, several Tree Swallows, Kill deer 2, Double-crested Cormorant 3, American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Crow, Ring-billed and Herring gulls
Predictions: Partly cloudy, but much colder with NNW wind. No lakeshore watch tomorrow. Sunday may be good.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymncw...>
It was a cold morning today at 38 but calm, clear and sunny. I decided to check out the Redbank Valley Trail at Lawsonham near Rimersburg for Louisiana waterthrush. The first one I heard singing as soon as I opened the car door. What a lovely sound that never gets old ! It was right at the run heading towards Redbank, I believe Turkey Creek. There was a second one about 3/4 mile further down as well. Headed up the other way towards Climax, just past the Sligo Spur, I also heard the yellow-throated warbler singing, back at the same spot it's been the last several years. I had forgotten it might be back already so was delighted to hear it, and it came down into the tree above close enough to see it as well, the yellow throat just glowing in the morning sun. The other arrival was a blue-headed vireo singing sweetly, another beautiful sight to see.
Last week we were alerted to a possible raven nest by a local neighbor, and we were able to confirm an active nest, with a bird sitting on the large stick nest about 50+ feet up the side of an old silo, on a metal platform at the top of a metal shaft or elevator on the side, not sure. It was tucked back in behind so well hidden and a little protected from the weather, but visible from the hillside across from it. So both nests I have ever located now are on manmade structures, the one last year being on a railroad trestle.
Other migrating raptors include 2 OSPR, 2 BAEA, 11 RTHA, 2 BWHA, 3 SSHA, 1 COHA, and 2 AMKE.
Raptor migration was not as strong today as predicted, but we did have a nice diversity throughout the day. Our GOEA of the day was an adult which I was a little surprised to see this late in the season.
66 loons seen today, a high count for the season. Most were distant, but we did have 1 group of 22 fly directly overhead.
We also had 7 DCCO, 2 GBHE, and 5 RBGU. Not too many passerine flyovers with just 1 AMRO, 1 BHCO, 1 AGOL, and 1 HOFI.
We spotted a CORA flying low through the powerline cut carrying a flying squirrel in its bill. Weird but kind of fun.
Predictions: Sunny with low SSW winds in the morning gradually shifting to moderate WSW winds by the end of the day. Uncertain what the raptor migration will look like tomorrow. It could be a decent day, but the past couple of days should have in theory been better days. ======================================================================== 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: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Barb Carrier, Bob Stewart, Greg Gdula, Joe Carrier
Weather: Mostly sunny, visibility 25 km reduced to 20 km due to valley smoke the last 2 hours, moderate SE winds, temp 3.2C rising to 13.3C
Raptor Observations: BE juv @ 12:05, 1 OS, 3 SS, 2 CH, 1 BW, 11 RT,1 AK, 1 UR
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos, A robins, E bluebirds, Tree swallows, M Dove, E Towhees N cardinals, Red-bellied and Downy wp, N Flicker
Predictions: Sunny, SW winds, high temp near 18C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 13:45:00
Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors:
Julie Leonard and I were the watchers today. Joe Susi, Julie Dell, and
Laura stopped for a brief visit.
Weather:
Clear early becoming variably cloudy to mostly cloudy by late morning early
afternoon. Cool early warming to the low 20 C with a strong SSW wind then
a shift to the west later cooling the air a bit.
Raptor Observations:
It was a slow steady flight of vultures and hawks until the wind shift to
the west after the 1300 hr. EST when there was a decent push of vultures
with 42 in one kettle before the lakeshore flight shut down. Even though
hawk numbers were lower than expected, it was the best day so far with some
species diversity. Highlight was the first-of-the-season Broad-winged
Hawk, and a Short-eared Owl was observed flying north towards the lake.
Non-raptor Observations:
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 1, Barn Swallow 1, Tree Swallow several,
Northern Flicker, American Crow, several large flocks of blackbirds, mostly
Red-winged Blackbirds and Common Grackles, Common Loon 1, Double-crested
Cormorant 35, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Ring-billed and Herring gulls,
American Robin.
Predictions:
Weather conditions iffy. Periods of ran and a bit cooler with WSW wind.
Not likely much migrating, especially after what we saw today.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, Pa., <jerrymcw...>
Weather: Party cloudy early morning followed by clear skies later in the day. Calm winds from southeast early, west in mid-afternoon, ending with east winds.
Raptor Observations: 4 local Black Vultures, 2 adult and 1 immature local Bald Eagles, and 2 local Broad-Winged Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Other migrating raptors include 1 SSHA and 1 TUVU.
There was a quick burst of activity at 14:26 when a GOEA and an unknown hawk, possibly a BWHA, came through at the same time. 3 local BAEAs were also soaring at the same time. The GOEA was soaring high and difficult to age. Otherwise a slow day despite good conditions.
COLO migration seems to be picking up with 37 spotted today between 09:00-11:00, a high count for the season so far. Tomorrow should yield even higher numbers.
PISIs continue to come through with at least 3 flyovers being heard today. Otherwise the only other flyover was a TRES.
Predictions: Mostly sunny with moderate S winds. Tomorrow should be a better day as today's good conditions will have brought raptors closer to us. ======================================================================== 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: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.67 hours
Compiler: David Barber
Counters: Diolinda Mundoza, Lauren Stanfa
Weather: clear and sunny with light winds all day.
Raptor Observations: Local Bald Eagles flew overhead frequently. Manu resident Turkey Vultures flew with couple Black Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Contributors: Dave Brooke, Jane Clark, Adrian Fenton, Donna Foyle, Joshua Hall, Ann Kline, Meg Kolodick, Nick Logan, Chris Lundberg, Adam Maddy, Doug Massey, Jerry McWilliams, Jackson Medeiros, Elizabeth Nicholson, Richard Nugent, Jeff Payne, Amber Pertz, Colin Pocock, Amanda Pollon, Joseph Pumford, Jerry Stanley, John Taylor, Shane Turoski, Sara Wetzel.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 24 March 2026 through Tuesday, 31 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: GREATER YELLOWLEGS, LESSER YELLOWLEGS, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, COMMON LOON, GREAT EGRET, ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, PINE SISKIN, PINE WARBLER continue to be reported.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
At the Imperial grasslands on 3/27, 2 SAVANNAH SPARROWS (APe); on 3/29, 1 SAVANNAH SPARROW (AF).
On 3/29 and 3/31 in Squirrel Hill, 1 PAINTED BUNTING (APo, CP).
BUTLER COUNTY:
In Cherry Valley on 3/26, 1 FISH CROW (via Ebird).
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
At State Gamelands #214 on 3/25, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (JH), 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (DB); on 3/27, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (CL); on 3/28, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (JMe); on 3/29, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, 15 LAPLAND LONGSPURS (JPu); on 3/30-3/31, 1 TRUMPETER SWAN (DF et. al.); also on 3/31, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (ST).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle on 2/20, sightings included MERLIN, 1 COMMON RAVEN, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, NORTHERN HARRIERS, 4 BONAPARTE'S GULLS (JMc), 1 probable AMERICAN HERRING GULL X GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL hybrid, 1 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (JMe), 1 RED-NECKED GREBE (3/28) (DM).
FAYETTE COUNTY:
At Lake Lenore on 3/27, 2 WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS (JC et. al.).
FOREST COUNTY:
At Beaver Meadows Lake on 3/27, 2 TRUMPETER SWANS (AK).
INDIANA COUNTY:
On 3/27 and 3/29 at Yellow Creek State Park, 1 RED-THROATED LOON (JT, NL).
LAWRENCE COUNTY:
At the Copper Road marsh on 3/25, 1 CACKLING GOOSE (RN).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
Along Cambria Avenue on 3/26, 2 FISH CROWS (AM).
On 3/27-3/28 at Lake Somerset, 1 WHITE-WINGED SCOTER (SW, JPa).
VENANGO COUNTY:
On 3/29 at Kahle Lake, 11 LONG-TAILED DUCKS (JS).
In Oil City on 3/31, 1 MERLIN (MK).
WARREN COUNTY:
On 3/26 at Chapman State Park, 1 RED CROSSBILL (EN).
In Tidioute on 3/29, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (EN).
Date: 4/8/26 11:18 am From: Oscar Miller <aoscarmiller3...> Subject: Re: Mercer County Black Vultures
Here in western Pennsylvania, in Allegheny County, directly south of
Butler County, Black Vultures have been seen much more frequently in the
last decade than in Butler County.
Since the turn of the century, in Butler County, Black Vultures were
reported in 2000, 2013, 2021, 2024, 2025 and 2026 with a very noticeable
increase in the last few years but not approaching the frequency of reports
from Allegheny.
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 2:36 PM Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> wrote:
> In southeastern Washington County along the Monongahela River, we've had
> an increasing number of "regulars" of Black Vultures over the past 5 or so
> years. For approximately two years now there's been a regular large flock
> of about 12 or so that stay in our 2-mile area daily.
>
> Amy Taracido
> Coal Center, Washington County, PA
>
> ________________________________
> From: Bird discussion list for Pennsylvania <PABIRDS...> on
> behalf of Randy Stringer <0000014328ddae02-dmarc-request...>
> Sent: Saturday, March 21, 2026 6:42 PM
> To: <PABIRDS...> <PABIRDS...>
> Subject: [PABIRDS] 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
>
Raptor Observations: Not very favorable conditions with light variable winds only a handful of TVs moving in singles drifting slow past then sometimes circ ling back. Only one local Cooper's hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Common Loon 1, Double-crested Cormorant 20, Northern Flicker 3, Common Grackle and Red-winged Blackbird, Mourning Dove, European Starling, American Crow
Predictions: Better conditions with strong southern winds with the possibility of afternoon showers.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano, Thomas Filip
Observers: Nick Bolgiano, Tom Filip
Weather: Wind WNW in the morning, NW in the afternoon, 8-22 mph. Partly cloudy early, becoming clear later.
Raptor Observations: 1 RTHA spotted today. There was very little movement today, it seems like the raptors are preferring to use tailwinds and thermals over strong updrafts this late in the season.
Very quiet today. No flyovers besides 1 AGOL and very little local action.
Predictions: Sunny with SSE wind, low 3-5mph in the morning, moderate 7-10mph in the afternoon. Conditions look good in the afternoon and there might be some raptor movement then, but it is likely Thursday will be better with moderate S winds the whole day. ======================================================================== 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: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers:
Weather: Strong WNW winds with gust up to 26 mph. Temperature started at -2.2 (c) didn't get any higher than 0.2 degrees (c). Cloud cover went from 20% down to 0% Visibility was clear up to 40 km.
Raptor Observations: 0 raptors observed.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue birds, crows, tufted titmouse, bc chicadees, doves, blue jays, local tv's, cardinals,wb nuthatches 1 hummingbird and a grey squirrel.
Predictions: cold and windy ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Ezra Murray
Counters: Eli Hevalow, Laurie Goodrich
Weather: 48 degrees sunny 10-20 mph NW winds
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/7/26 12:51 pm From: Michael Fialkovich <0000012b4af48ab0-dmarc-request...> Subject: Virginia's Warbler and Western Meadowlark
Hi,
Two western strays continue in southeastern Pennsylvania.
The first state record Virginia's Warbler continues at Riverbend Environmental Center in Montgomery County today. It's most often seen next to the parking lot or across from the red barn which is visible from the parking lot.
A Western Meadowlark continues today in nearby Chester County on Hedge Road in Elverson.
Contributors: Drew Bailey, Jennifer Balsiger, Kimberly Berry, Dave Brooke, Patience Fisher, Ron George-Snyder, Daniel Graham, Ron Graham, Margaret Higbee, S. Kaye, Jordan Lehman, Brenda Mccloskey, Dan McGuire, Jenna Rupert, Holley Short, Kim Springer, Jerry Stanley, Carl Thomson, Michael Williams, Carole Winslow.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 17 March 2026 through Tuesday, 24 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: COMMON LOON, WHITE-WINGED SCOTER, GREATER YELLOWLEGS, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, GREAT EGRET, BLACK VULTURE, PINE SISKIN, FOX SPARROW continue to be reported.
BUTLER COUNTY:
On 3/19-3/21 at Moraine State Park, 1 RED-NECKED GREBE (JB, KB, RG et. al.).
CLARION COUNTY:
In Strattanville on 3/21, 1 EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE (RGS).
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
At State Gamelands #214 on 3/18, 1 EURASIAN WIGEON (DG); on 3/21, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, 1 CACKLING GOOSE, 1 TRUMPETER SWAN (DBa), 1 DUNLIN (PF); on 3/22, 1 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (DBr et. al.), 2 CACKLING GEESE (JR).
On 3/21 at Jamestown campground, 1 RED-HEADED WOODPECKER (DBa).
At Conneaut Marsh on 3/22, 1 RED-HEADED WOODPECKER (JL).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle on 2/20, sightings included TRUMPETER SWANS (HS).
FAYETTE COUNTY:
At Lake Courage on 3/23-3/24, 1 RED-NECKED GREBE (CT, DM).
FOREST COUNTY:
In Marienville on 3/22, 2 TRUMPETER SWANS (SK).
INDIANA COUNTY:
In Shelocta on 3/19, 1 PINE WARBLER (MH).
MERCER COUNTY:
At Shenango Reservoir on 3/20, 5 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS (KS); on 3/22, 1 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (MW).
On 3/22 near Lake Wilhelm, 12 PURPLE MARTINS (BM).
VENANGO COUNTY:
At Kahle Lake on 3/23, 1 LONG-TAILED DUCK, 3 COMMON LOONS (JS).
On 3/24 at Oil Creek State Park, 1 NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL (CW).
Date: 4/7/26 11:34 am From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: Re: Mercer County Black Vultures
In southeastern Washington County along the Monongahela River, we've had an increasing number of "regulars" of Black Vultures over the past 5 or so years. For approximately two years now there's been a regular large flock of about 12 or so that stay in our 2-mile area daily.
Amy Taracido
Coal Center, Washington County, PA
________________________________
From: Bird discussion list for Pennsylvania <PABIRDS...> on behalf of Randy Stringer <0000014328ddae02-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Saturday, March 21, 2026 6:42 PM
To: <PABIRDS...> <PABIRDS...>
Subject: [PABIRDS] 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: 4/7/26 11:23 am From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: RBA western Pennsylvania, 17 March 2026
RBA
*Pennsylvania
*Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania
*PAWE03.17.26
Highlights:
TRUMPETER SWAN
SNOW GOOSE
EURASIAN WIGEON (Crawford County)
DUNLIN
BONAPARTE'S GULL
ICELAND GULL (Erie County)
GOLDEN EAGLE (Erie and Indiana Counties)
FISH CROW
Contributors: David Argent, Trip Bondi, Bill Flanagan, David Hoedeman, Jim Hunsberger, Adam Maddy, Avi Marshall, Jerry McWilliams, Jackson Medeiros, Brian Miller, Kenneth Pinnow, Barry Saylor, Jerry Stanley, John Taylor, Mark Vass.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Tuesday, 10 March 2026 through Tuesday, 17 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: WHITE-WINGED SCOTER, GREATER YELLOWLEGS, LESSER YELLOWLEGS, BLACK VULTURE, PINE SISKIN, FOX SPARROW continue to be reported.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
At Frick Park on 3/12, 1 SNOW GOOSE (via Ebird).
BEAVER COUNTY:
On 3/14-3/15 at McRoberts Road marsh, 2 SANDHILL CRANES (MV, DH).
CRAWFORD COUNTY:
On 3/11 at Crooked Creek, 1 EURASIAN WIGEON (BM).
At State Gamelands #214 on 3/14, 1 EURASIAN WIGEON (KP).
On 3/15 at Conneaut Marsh, 1 TRUMPETER SWAN (BS).
Near Pymatuning Reservoir in Westford on 3/15, 1 RED-HEADED WOODPECKER (JH).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle on 2/20, sightings included 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (3/15) (JMc), TRUMPETER SWANS (BF, JMc), 4 DUNLIN (TB), 1 ICELAND GULL (JMe).
INDIANA COUNTY:
At Yellow Creek State Park on 3/11, 1 BONAPARTE'S GULL (JT); on 3/13, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (AMar).
LAWRENCE COUNTY:
On 3/13 at State Gamelands #284, 2 TRUMPETER SWANS (DA).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
On 3/11 and 3/15 at Cambria Avenue, 1 FISH CROW (AMad).
Date: 4/7/26 7:38 am From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: help, my RBA posts are being rejected
I hope this message gets through because I don't see a help page anywhere. My most recent two RBA posts sent in the PABIRDS message posting site have been rejected. I don't know why. Please advise or point me to where the help/contact pages are.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers:
Visitors: 17 visitors.
Weather: Cold , west winds with gusts up to 22mph. Started with blue skies but most of day mostly cloudy with snow flurries off and on in afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Cooper flew south early in day and around 1:15 SUB Ad BE glided fairly high over hawkwatch west to east. Nearly all raptors picked up with binoculars.
Non-raptor Observations: Nuthatches, chickadees, tree swallows, mourning doves, towhee, flickers, downy wp, X 5 loons flew over fairly low in the morning, cardinals, blue jay.
Predictions: Winds SW, cold again temps 20-30'sF. No precipitation. Partly cloudy. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Lauren Stanfa, Rob Feldman
Weather: Partly cloudy in the morning then overcast in the afternoon with moderate winds out of the Northwest.
Raptor Observations: A pair of adult bald eagles frequently escorted migrants out of the area and a red-tailed hawk hunted around the mountain.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Observation start time: 12:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 1.75 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers:
Visitors: 2
Weather: Cold. Temp 3 to 6 degrees C. Wind out of the west 18-20 mph. Gusting to 41 mph. 100% cloud cover decreasing to 91% cloud cover to the east. Visiblity 30 km. Haze becoming clear in mid-afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Several local TV's and one local red-tailed hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: blue jays, blue birds, 32 gulls low in valley.
Predictions: Mostly sunny with some afternoon clouds. High 49 degrees. Wind out of the west at 15 to 25 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bstewart...>)
Date: 4/5/26 1:04 pm From: Carole Winslow <cjwinslow94...> Subject: Forest and Warren Co- northern shrike, Bonaparte's gulls and hermits
It was a good Easter weekend of birding, starting with a Penn State Ext wetlands birdwalk at Buzzard Swamp where we surprisingly found a northern shrike still hanging out this late in spring. Our guide Melinda was luckily able to get a photo before we lost it in the scrubby field beside the first pond, so still in Forest Co. There was a pretty good selection of waterfowl with both teal and horned and pied-billed grebes. A nice raptor show with kestrels, an osprey pair at the nest already carrying nesting material, while being attacked by an adult and two young bald eagles.
Today with the cold, gray morning we just went for a short trip up on the ridge above the Allegheny at Tidioute, so Warren Co. As we crossed the bridge I discovered a large flock of Bonaparte's gulls on the river and flying around, along with bufflehead, mergs and scaup. I estimated at least 75, some with almost full hoods visible. I assume the bad weather yesterday and earlier today put them down, a couple hours later as we came back through they were gone. On the walk a harrier was flying along the ridge and then came over us, quite a surprise for this location. I also found a group of hermit thrush hanging out together in a big downed oak on the power cut, with another one calling further up the trail. So wonderful to see the thrushes back for the summer, a welcome sight after this past winter. Brown creepers were singing and sapsuckers were drumming, calling and fighting, ready for another breeding season.
Date: 4/5/26 7:14 am From: linda & bill franz <00000021c311e447-dmarc-request...> Subject: Brown Thrasher, Cumberland County
Had a Brown Thrasher singing its musical, paired notes inthe top of our tall cherry tree during the morning spring rain. I enjoy the early singing of the Cardinalsand Robins, but I feel the thrasher heralds spring like no other bird. I can see that the numerous April eBirdchecklists with thrashers documents that they have arrived in big numbers.Bill Franz / Newville
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers: Bob Stewart, Dave Poder, Greg Gdula
Visitors: ~15 Visitors
Weather: Warm and sunny with a slight southeast wind in the morning. Winds picked up and became stronger throughout the day while maintaining a mostly southeast direction. Very warm by the end of the day. Rain began at 3:00 p.m.
Raptor Observations: Many raptors were seen but not migrating today!
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow, American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Common Raven, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern Towhee, Field Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Tree Swallow, Tufted Titmouse, White-Breasted Nuthatch
3 Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, 3 Mourning Cloak, White M Hairstreak, 3 small orange colored butterflies
Predictions: Showers in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High 57F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 60%. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Date: 4/4/26 6:19 pm From: DAVID KOCH <0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> Subject: A few comments Koch property Northampton County
There’s nothing important here just a few remarks. Juncos and white-throats are still here but I’m seeing chipping sparrows and hearing field sparrows. Today a ruby crowned kinglet was in the field although I haven’t seen one for weeks. Purple finches are at feeders and I’m assuming they’re migrating. Nice to be seeing goldfinches turning yellow. Woodpeckers are eating suet voraciously as mating season approaches. And I see that PA’s first .Virginia’s warbler is still in Montgomery County. Arlene Koch <davilene...>
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Ken Bowman
Weather: Rain overnight with last bit ending just before watch started. Wind S/SE, mostly 4-7 mph, but 6-9 mph late. Partly to mostly cloudy, temp 18-24F
Raptor Observations: GE(6): 1005 Unk, 1007 Sub, 1121 Unk(2), 1317 Sub, 1415 Juv. The Juv flew towards us from at least 1/2 mi away, flew overhead above the wires slowly, looking at us, then circled overhead, as if very curious about us.
The morning was productive, seemingly a continuation of yesterday, then there was a lull as the wind was light, then it picked up in second half of afternoon as wind increased.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: rain until about 1000, could be some low clouds for a while, then wind W 13-17 mph in afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>) Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Compiler: Zachary Underwoood
Counters: Andy Price, Eli Hevalow
Weather: Overcast with dense fog in early morning with clear skies later on. Calm North winds early morning, then shifted to easterlies winds.
Raptor Observations: 3 migrating Ospreys, 7 migrating Northern Harriers, and 5 local Bald Eagles (3 immature & 2 adults).
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/4/26 11:34 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following wee seen or heard on the morning bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol PA. led by Ron Miller There were 14 participants.
American CootAmerican CrowAmerican GoldfinchAmerican RobinBlue JayBlue-Gray GnatcatcherBrown-Headed Cowbird Canada GooseCarolina ChickadeeCarolina WrenCoopers HawkDark-Eyed JuncoDouble-Crested Cormorant Downy WoodpeckerEuropean StarlingGreat Blue HeronHairy WoodpeckerHouse FinchHouse SparrowMallardMourning DoveNorthern CardinalNorthern FlickerOspreyPileated WoodpeckerRed-Winged BlackbirdRusty BlackbirdSong SparrowSwamp SparrowTree SwallowTufted TitmouseTurkey VultureWhite-Breasted NuthatchWhite-Throated SparrowWood Duck
Doug Filler Levittown PA.
Observation start time: 11:15:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 5.17 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano, Thomas Filip
Observers: Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano, Tom Filip
Weather: After overnight and morning rain, there was thick fog along the ridge before the watch began. Wind SSW/S, mostly 4-10 mph, partly cloudy. Low of 18.3℃ and a high of 22.7℃.
Other migrating raptors include 7 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 9 RTHA, 1 RSHA, 5 BWHA, 21 SSHA, 1 COHA, 6 NOHA, 13 TUVU, and 4 AMKE.
A great day despite starting late due to fog, the S winds undoubtedly helped. Our first GOEA of April was a blink and you miss it moment. A juvenile, it came through quickly close and low to the ridge, giving Nick and I a brief but satisfying look. 7 OSPR, 21 SSHA, and 6 NOHA were all high counts for the season. The RSHA was the first we have seen since March 15. Our first BWHAs of the season were seen today, 3 of which came through at the same time with a kettle of TUVU. Hopefully a good sign for things to come in the next couple of weeks.
We had a distant but long look at 3 SACR flying SE on the south side of the ridge. 6 COLO and 5 RBGU were seen in the afternoon.
Relatively few passerine flyovers, probably due to starting in the afternoon, but a decent variety nonetheless with 5 TRES, 1 HOFI, 2 PUFI, 7 AGOL, and 1 PISI.
Predictions: Uncertain as the forecast has been changing frequently and varies greatly but tomorrow may be mostly rain or just scattered rain showers. Low to moderate S/SSE winds. If there is a long enough break in the rain there could be some decent movement. ======================================================================== 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: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Sandy Cline
Observers:
Visitors: Bill Cline, Mike Wolfe, Ian Russ, Jake Murphy, Judy Johns
Weather: Sunny at the top, total fog in valley until about 11:15, high ~75F
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations: N Flickers, Tree Swallows, BC Chickadees, BlueJays, DE Juncos, Mourning Doves, Field Sparrow, E Towhee, N Cardinals, E Bluebirds, GC Kinglet, Purple Finch, WB Nuthatch, YB Sapsucker
Predictions: Partly cloudy, very warm, winds from S/SW ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sandy Cline (<horseldy...>)
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Sam Stull
Visitors: Sam Stull assisted with the count. Visitors included Karen Butowski, Carol Allen, and Doug Massey
Weather: Variably cloudy with strong SW wind early becoming westerly by mid-day. Unseasonably warm.
Raptor Observations: Vultures were already on the move when I arrived at 0630 EST. Vulture movement was heaviest between the 0800 and 0900 hr. EST. They came through low early then rising in altitude as the morning progressed. Most streamed through nearly non-stop usually a few at a time with only a couple of sizable kettles. With the good SW wind birds were hugging the lake until mid-day when the wind shifted to the west and the lakeshore flight shut down. The hawk flight was disappointingly low
Non-raptor Observations: Wood Duck 6, local Merlin, Rusty and Red-winged blackbirds, Brown-headed Cowbirds and Common Grackles, Double-crested Cormorant 86, Great Blue heron 1, Canada Goose 8, Golden-crowned Kinglet 1, a good flight of Northern Flickers with more than 40 counted, American Robin, Mourning Dove, Mallard 3, Eastern Bluebird 1, Horned Lark 3, several Tree Swallows, Ring-billed and Herring Gulls
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with ENE wind then becoming SSW. Not sure what tomorrow will bring, depends upon the wind direction and what is left in the pipeline.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 11:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 2.5 hours
Compiler:
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Eli Hevalow, Matt Wlasniewski
Weather: Foggy, weak winds from the southwest. Extremely low visibility.
Raptor Observations: Good looks at many local raptors, including Turkey Vultures, Bald Eagles, and a Cooper's Hawk.
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: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Greg Gdula, Nancy Ott, Paul Fritz, Regina Gaison
Weather: SE winds, Fog, mist and rain. Visibility nil. Watch terminated at 11:30 EST
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations: BC chickadees, WB nuthatches, T titmice, DE juncos, A robins, E bluebirds, Tree swallows, M Dove, E Towhees N cardinals, Pileated, Red-bellied and Downy wp, N Flicker
Predictions: Mostly cloudy, SW winds, high near 16C ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Ken Bowman
Weather: Mostly cloudy with a couple of short, light rain showers in the morning. Moderate NW wind in the morning at 8-12mph, low 2-6mph wind in the afternoon. Warm with a low of 14.8℃ and a high of 20.8℃.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA spotted today.
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 1 BAEA, 3 RTHA, and 8 TUVU. A slow day with poor wind conditions and weak thermals, the few raptors we saw were in the second half of the day after the last rain shower.
1 COLO flyover right after the last rain shower and 4 DCCO in the afternoon. There were also some interesting passerine flyovers including 1 HOFI, 1 PUFI, 5 AGOL, 2 PISI, 7 BHCO, and 1 RUBL. The RUBL was our first of the season.
Predictions: Cloudy with a chance of some light rain showers in the morning. SE winds for most of the day, low in the morning, moderate in the afternoon. The lack of thermals is not great but SE winds are good, we might see some movement in the afternoon when the wind picks up. ======================================================================== 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: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Rosemary McGlynn
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: very strong W/WSW winds early,decreasing as the day went on;mix of high & low clouds that decreased for several hrs then increased again;good visibility;no rain;54-72F
Predictions: lt to moderate SE winds;cloudy with chance of showers;50-65F ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Compiler: Zachary Underwoood
Counters: Bracken Brown, Ezra Murray
Weather: Overcast with 8mph winds
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 4/1/26 11:05 am From: Randy Stringer <0000014328ddae02-dmarc-request...> Subject: Mercer County Lapland Longspurs
Dear Birders,
There are currently 50-60 Lapland Longspurs on Tieline Road just north of Grove City, feeding on cornstalks on the northwest side of the road, many in full breeding plumage.
Randy C. Stringer
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 31, 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: Variable wind in the morning that shifted back and forth between SSW and WSW frequently, generally at 5-7mph with some stronger gusts. SW wind 12-15mph after noon and then lower S wind after 15:00. Mostly cloudy the whole day with some short, small breaks in the clouds. Warm with a low of 17.6℃ and a high of 23.6℃.
Raptor Observations: No GOEA spotted today. Our GOEA count for March is 193 and the total for the season is 202 so far. This is the third highest March count at Tussey with the highest being 225 in 2015.
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 4 RTHA, 7 TUVU, and 1 AMKE. Despite decent wind conditions, the day was slow. All of our raptors today were spotted between 12:00-15:00.
A flock of 8 PUFI were seen and 2 more were heard, a high count for the season so far. 2 AGOl and 6 TRES were also seen.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks to be mostly cloudy and rainy. I do not think there will be many raptors, if any, but we may be able to get a few hours in if the rain breaks in the morning. ======================================================================== 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: Jim Rocco
Observers:
Visitors: 3 visitors
Weather: Winds out of the WSW with gust up to 25 mph. Average temperature for the day was 18 (C). Cloud cover was heavy all day from 50% to 100%. Visibility was up to 30 km. with a haze all day in the valley.
Raptor Observations: taptors counted for the day 1 sharpie and 1 coopers hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: A good day for paserines, 15 different species observed. Doves, juncos, tree swallows, red bellied woodpecker, downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, crows, blue birds, titmouse, local tv's, fox sparrow, robins, white breasted nuthatches ,eastern phobee, brown creeper.
Predictions: Warm with possible early morning showers ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Date: 3/31/26 2:31 pm From: Robin and Daniel Zmoda <robinanddanielz...> Subject: Northampton County 18K run
Spent some time helping to clean out Kestrel boxes this week in Plainfield township and saw a total of 18 Kestrels near some of the 27 boxes I worked on. They're baaaack. Also had a red screech owl in one box. Dan Zmoda Pen Argyl
Observation start time: 10:45:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard
Visitors: Julie Leonard and I ran the watch today. Visitors included Jane Ross, Daryl Nolt, Andrea, and Mark Lethaby.
Weather: Rain showers and thunderstorms in the morning, then some sun and heat by midday with strong SW wind.
Raptor Observations: After the rain ended at 1030 EST the clouds started to break up, and birds began to fly in earnest. Large kettles of TVs formed to the west and drifted well over the lake. A few more hawks, but still short of what is expected at this time of year. The flight shut down when stormy weather returned by mid-afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations: Tree and Barn swallows, European Starling, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, American Crow, Ring-billed and Herring gull, Canada Goose, Wood Duck
Predictions: Cloudy and much cooler with NNE wind with light showers in the afternoon. Doesn't look like a flight day.Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/31/26 12:50 pm From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: New Species for the Year
I headed out to check a couple of places to find out what was new and added 5 new year species.
Ponderosa Road, a quiet dirt road near us, yielded my first of the year Blue-headed Vireo. I was somewhat surprised but it was quite distinctive. eBird flagged it and so the local reviewer" will have to OK it which I know he will. Probably one day early for the filter. Heading down the road, I heard an Eastern Towhee, a species that has already been found in the county. And then, one of my favorite songs, alerted me to a Louisiana Waterthrush, in the usual spot. I also had a Cedar Waxwing.
I headed to SGL 322 to check on the Red-headed Woodpeckers that stay through the winter because I had not been over there yet this year. And I was rewarded with 7. I had wanted to check out a road that looped around the area that I was interested in but had never walked on before. I found two sets of two birds toward the back of the area where we have found only 2 birds before. Moving back to the road, I found the other two that nest near the road. And, as I was almost back to the parking area, I heard a titmouse and as I looked at it, I spied another Red-headed Woodpecker on a tree behind it! So I was truly rewarded with my favorite bird. Some of these might be migrating but there have been two pairs nesting in the past. I heard the usual quier sound but also a scratchier sound coming from two in the back as I watched them fly around. And not the rattle sound that I have heard before in late fall as sort of a sound to alert others to where they were.
Another reason that I was visiting the area is that it is where I survey Golden-winged Warblers for the PGC every year. I have not heard any at a site which is back in the woods. However, the road passes on the edge of a logged area with had the right type of habitat in previous years so I thought it might yield a new site to survey. But, it was also an area just burned so I am not sure if it will prove to be welcoming or not for the birds.
Just a few thoughts on these surveys. With genetic evidence in recent years that indicates there are only 6 genomic loci differences between Golden and Blue-winged and that these differences are in sequences determining color, the lifetime of continuing these surveys may be limited. It is already well-known that they interbreed and if there is no other evidence to make them separate species, birders may lose another tick on their lists.
Ponderosa Rd, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, US
Mar 31, 2026 9:56 AM - 10:06 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.138 mile(s)
15 species
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Blue-headed Vireo 1 Unmistakable singing.
Blue Jay 4
Black-capped Chickadee 4
Tufted Titmouse 3
Golden-crowned Kinglet 1
American Robin 4
Cedar Waxwing 1
American Goldfinch 1
Field Sparrow 1
Eastern Towhee 1
Brown-headed Cowbird 1
Louisiana Waterthrush 1
Pine Warbler 2
State Game Lands 322--South (incl. Habitat Cut), Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, US
Mar 31, 2026 10:19 AM - 11:26 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.208 mile(s)
20 species
Red-headed Woodpecker 7 2 groups. Two sets in back and one set at road although on opposite side. Then nearly at the parking area, one on a tree.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 8
Downy Woodpecker 5
Pileated Woodpecker 4
Northern Flicker 3
Blue Jay 1
American Crow 1
Common Raven 1
Tufted Titmouse 8
White-breasted Nuthatch 3
Brown Creeper 1
Eastern Bluebird 1
American Robin 6
American Goldfinch 1
Field Sparrow 4
Dark-eyed Junco 3
White-throated Sparrow 1
Eastern Towhee 7
Brown-headed Cowbird 3
Northern Cardinal 3
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 30, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Thomas Filip
Observers: Deb Rittlemann, Joe Sabo, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Mostly cloudy for the first hour and half, after which it cleared up to partly cloudy for a few hours until 13:00 when it started to get mostly cloudy again. Wind direction started at SSW, shifted SW around 10:00, then briefly to WSW for an hour around 12:00, before shifting back to SW and then SSW by the end of the day. Wind speed was generally at 7-9mph throughout the day with a few brief periods at 4-5mph. It was a warm day with a low of 13.7℃ and a high of 21.2℃.
Unlike the rest of the raptors today flying high over the ridge, our GOEA caught us by surprise and came through low on the S side over the valley.We initially thought it was a TUVU until we took a closer look. Joe, who had come here from Pittsburgh and had been patiently waiting hours to see a GOEA, got up quickly when Nick called out that it might be a GOEA. It was already about half way past at this point and both Nick and I were frantically trying to get him on the bird, and for a few seconds it looked like it was going to slip by when it got past the last wire. Nick eventually told him to just come over to his scope to see it. Thankfully the eagle showed some mercy and decided to soar instead of rushing past like most GOEA, and Joe was able to get a good look at it for a short time before it moved on. Nick and I both let out sighs of relief when he finally got it.
Other migrating raptors include 1 OSPR, 2 NOHA, 6 RTHA, 1 SSHA, 1 COHA, and 27 TUVU. Most of these birds were very high up and looked like specks in the sky with binoculars. The NOHAs lived up to their name as "the great fooler" today as I had trouble identifying both initially.
We had a few passerine flyovers with 2 TRES, 2 AMRO, 1 AGOL, 1 BHCO, and 3 COGR. We also had 1 COLO flyover.
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with moderate WSW winds. Uncertain what the raptor migration will be like tomorrow. If there is a break in the clouds, we could see decent raptor movement like today. There is an approaching storm from the west which could push some raptors to fly through before it hits us that night, or it could hinder them. ======================================================================== 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: Nancy Ott
Observers: Greg Gdula
Visitors: 2 visitors.
Weather: Mostly cloudy, some sun, SW winds 8-11 mph with gusts up to 26 mph.
Raptor Observations: TV's floated around valley with 10 migrating ones flying straight through N. Some RT's non migrating and 1 cooper's hawk with deep wing beats non migrating. 8:50a a raven was heard and soon AD GE visible down in valley being challenged by raven as it got higher in sky and soared north. Nice look at top and underside view of GE along with comparable size of raven as they started at eye level.
Non-raptor Observations: Tree swallows, blue birds, blue jays, chickadees, tufted titmouse, juncos, towhee, flicker, downy and red bellied wp, male cardinal, robin, mourning dove, ravens, crows.
Predictions: WSW winds, partly cloudy, temps 50's-60's F. No precipitation ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Observation start time: 06:45:00 Observation end time: 11:45:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Carolyn Sturdevant, Jerry McWilliams, Julie Leonard, Katie Andersen
Visitors: Carolyn Sturdevant, Julie Leanard, and Katie Andersen assisted for part of the count. Visitors included Brian Berchtold, and Ken
Weather: Variably cloudy early becoming cloudy then a few sprinkles. SW wind switching to west wind around mid-day.
Raptor Observations: Vultures started moving at sunrise, but the flight was light and sporadic until about 1000 hrs. EST when over 600 vultures were in the sky at once. The flight remained steady and heavy on a well-defined line until the winds started coming off the lake around 1030 EST then the flight shifted to the south and out of sight. This is what has been happening for the past week or so, with the wind shift around mid-day shutting the lakeshore flight down. I am sure many have slipped past us well to the south with the winds off the lake. Hawk numbers were very low again, with the few seen, very high.
Non-raptor Observations: There was a good westerly flight of American Robins. Other migrants seen were Double-crested Cormorant 20, Northern Flicker 15, Tree swallow 3, Barn Swallow 1, Eastern Phoebe 1, Killdeer 6, Bonaparte's Gull 4, Ring-billed and Herring gull, European Starling, Red-winged Blackbird, common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Goldfinch 2, American Crow, Blue Jay, Mourning Dove, Wood Duck 2Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 11:00:00 Total observation time: 2.25 hours
Compiler: Lauren Stanfa
Counters: Alyona Kaptyonkina, Diolinda Mundoza, Eli Hevalow, Zachary Underwoood
Weather: Sunny and warm with low winds
Raptor Observations: 4 local bald eagles (1 second-year) - close look, flying southwest along ridge.
Non-raptor Observations: 3 brown headed cowbirds on eastern hemlock tree 1 Eastern Phoebe ======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
