Date: 9/15/26 8:35 am From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Just had over 100 broad winged hawks over hub lawn on campus in 10 minutes!
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 8:05 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
wow Jen, great count, what a beautiful day to be on the ridge
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Hawkcount.org reports <reports...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 7:58:05 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Observation start time:
07:45:00
Observation end time:
16:00:00
Total observation time:
8.25 hours
Official Counter
Jen Lee
Observers:
Diane Stewart
Visitors:
No visitors, but a great group of hawk watching chicks on the mountain! Deena, Carol, Jo and Diane were FANTASTIC scanners of the skies for today's big count!!
Weather:
A beautiful fall day! High of low 70s. Moderate winds from NNW all day. Very few clouds early but they gradually built up to help us spot the raptors.
Raptor Observations:
BWs were streaming early. Saw my first few about 2 mins after arrival and boom, the clicker was humming!. Streaming at high naked eye level, straight down the ridge to start. Birds went from high naked eye to mid/high binocular view fairly quickly. They also used both sides and middle of the ridge, with some streams starting on one side, crossing over and finishing on the other side. A few kettles up to 40-50 birds. Steady flow of birds all morning, tapered down from noon onward. We hoped for a late fallout but struck out. My first Harrier (female or imm.) of this season. 1 Am.Kestrel swooped in to check out our owl and landed on the top of the telephone pole 15 ft away. Later 2 Am. Kestrels came in an landed on the old tower for a few minutes.
Non-raptor Observations:
First Cormorants (13), TVs/BVs not counted, Modo, raven, cedar waxwing. Chim.swifts, Goldfinch, chickadee, hummers. Tree swallows, towhee calling, rb.nuthatch beeping.
Predictions:
Just might be another big day with the more favorable, for Jack's, SSE winds being forecast!!
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> On Behalf Of Lee, Jen
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 8:08 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: NY PA Migration Alert for 14 Sep 2026
YIPPIE
~ Jen
________________________________
From: BirdCast Northeast Notifications <birdcast-alert...><mailto:<birdcast-alert...>> Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 2:02:40 PM
To: Lee, Jen <jal21...><mailto:<jal21...>> Subject: NY PA Migration Alert for 14 Sep 2026
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a membership institution dedicated to interpreting and conserving the earth's biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds.
Our mailing address is:
159 Sapsucker Woods Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850
Sure. Both watches would love the extra eyes and to share in the fun !
Jacks is on the Jacks Mt ridge just south of Belleville and Stone is on the Stone Mt ridge just north of Belleville.
JACKS: N 40.54347, W -77.75703
From State College - 322 East to Reedsville, 655 South, Front Mountain Rd to Wills Rd/Jacks Mt Rd to the top of the ridge and the gravel parking lot on the Right, Watch site right there.
Bring a chair, sunscreen (AM full sun, PM some shade), a snack and your bins !
STONE: N 40.56896, W -77.82859
Best to input coordinates into your GPS or Google Maps - The drive involves State Forest gravel roads last few miles up to the top of the Mt. and then a ~10-20 min hike along the ridgetop.
From State College - PA-26 South to McAlevy's Fort
Turn Left on PA-305 East
Right on Barr Rd
Right on E. Branch Rd
Left on Allensville Rd/T508 (Game Lands Gravel from here)
There are a few connecting gravel roads from here - the GPS will get you to the top and to the Gravel Parking area. Park and hike the top of the ridge to the Northeast 10-20 mins. Follow the Mid-State Trail path along the ridge top (over 3-4 rock outcroppings) to the platform location. Minimal seating, bench for counters, room for maybe 3 chairs but carrying in is difficult. Sunscreen - no shade !
From: Jeff Gallo <psugallo...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 9:22 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>; Lee, Jen <jal21...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Can you remind us all of the directions/tips for coming out to visit the Jacks Mountain hawk watch? (And/or Stone Mt for that matter.)
Apologies if this was shared recently and I overlooked.
Thanks!
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...>> on behalf of Lee, Jen <jal21...><mailto:<jal21...>> Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 9:16 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...>> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Thanks! Stone Mt had a great day too. Hoping for a top 10 BW at Jacks (1600+).
~ Jen
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...>> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...><mailto:<jpg186...>> Sent: Monday, 14 September 2026 20:05:01
To: <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...>> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
wow Jen, great count, what a beautiful day to be on the ridge
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...>> on behalf of Hawkcount.org reports <reports...><mailto:<reports...>> Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 7:58:05 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...><mailto:<SCBIRDCL...>> Subject: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Observation start time:
07:45:00
Observation end time:
16:00:00
Total observation time:
8.25 hours
Official Counter
Jen Lee
Observers:
Diane Stewart
Visitors:
No visitors, but a great group of hawk watching chicks on the mountain! Deena, Carol, Jo and Diane were FANTASTIC scanners of the skies for today's big count!!
Weather:
A beautiful fall day! High of low 70s. Moderate winds from NNW all day. Very few clouds early but they gradually built up to help us spot the raptors.
Raptor Observations:
BWs were streaming early. Saw my first few about 2 mins after arrival and boom, the clicker was humming!. Streaming at high naked eye level, straight down the ridge to start. Birds went from high naked eye to mid/high binocular view fairly quickly. They also used both sides and middle of the ridge, with some streams starting on one side, crossing over and finishing on the other side. A few kettles up to 40-50 birds. Steady flow of birds all morning, tapered down from noon onward. We hoped for a late fallout but struck out. My first Harrier (female or imm.) of this season. 1 Am.Kestrel swooped in to check out our owl and landed on the top of the telephone pole 15 ft away. Later 2 Am. Kestrels came in an landed on the old tower for a few minutes.
Non-raptor Observations:
First Cormorants (13), TVs/BVs not counted, Modo, raven, cedar waxwing. Chim.swifts, Goldfinch, chickadee, hummers. Tree swallows, towhee calling, rb.nuthatch beeping.
Can you remind us all of the directions/tips for coming out to visit the Jacks Mountain hawk watch? (And/or Stone Mt for that matter.)
Apologies if this was shared recently and I overlooked.
Thanks!
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Lee, Jen <jal21...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 9:16 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Thanks! Stone Mt had a great day too. Hoping for a top 10 BW at Jacks (1600+).
~ Jen
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...>
Sent: Monday, 14 September 2026 20:05:01
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
wow Jen, great count, what a beautiful day to be on the ridge
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Hawkcount.org reports <reports...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 7:58:05 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter Jen Lee
Observers: Diane Stewart
Visitors:
No visitors, but a great group of hawk watching chicks on the mountain! Deena, Carol, Jo and Diane were FANTASTIC scanners of the skies for today's big count!!
Weather:
A beautiful fall day! High of low 70s. Moderate winds from NNW all day. Very few clouds early but they gradually built up to help us spot the raptors.
Raptor Observations:
BWs were streaming early. Saw my first few about 2 mins after arrival and boom, the clicker was humming!. Streaming at high naked eye level, straight down the ridge to start. Birds went from high naked eye to mid/high binocular view fairly quickly. They also used both sides and middle of the ridge, with some streams starting on one side, crossing over and finishing on the other side. A few kettles up to 40-50 birds. Steady flow of birds all morning, tapered down from noon onward. We hoped for a late fallout but struck out. My first Harrier (female or imm.) of this season. 1 Am.Kestrel swooped in to check out our owl and landed on the top of the telephone pole 15 ft away. Later 2 Am. Kestrels came in an landed on the old tower for a few minutes.
Non-raptor Observations:
First Cormorants (13), TVs/BVs not counted, Modo, raven, cedar waxwing. Chim.swifts, Goldfinch, chickadee, hummers. Tree swallows, towhee calling, rb.nuthatch beeping.
Predictions:
Just might be another big day with the more favorable, for Jack's, SSE winds being forecast!!
Thanks! Stone Mt had a great day too. Hoping for a top 10 BW at Jacks (1600+).
~ Jen
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...>
Sent: Monday, 14 September 2026 20:05:01
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
wow Jen, great count, what a beautiful day to be on the ridge
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Hawkcount.org reports <reports...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 7:58:05 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter Jen Lee
Observers: Diane Stewart
Visitors:
No visitors, but a great group of hawk watching chicks on the mountain! Deena, Carol, Jo and Diane were FANTASTIC scanners of the skies for today's big count!!
Weather:
A beautiful fall day! High of low 70s. Moderate winds from NNW all day. Very few clouds early but they gradually built up to help us spot the raptors.
Raptor Observations:
BWs were streaming early. Saw my first few about 2 mins after arrival and boom, the clicker was humming!. Streaming at high naked eye level, straight down the ridge to start. Birds went from high naked eye to mid/high binocular view fairly quickly. They also used both sides and middle of the ridge, with some streams starting on one side, crossing over and finishing on the other side. A few kettles up to 40-50 birds. Steady flow of birds all morning, tapered down from noon onward. We hoped for a late fallout but struck out. My first Harrier (female or imm.) of this season. 1 Am.Kestrel swooped in to check out our owl and landed on the top of the telephone pole 15 ft away. Later 2 Am. Kestrels came in an landed on the old tower for a few minutes.
Non-raptor Observations:
First Cormorants (13), TVs/BVs not counted, Modo, raven, cedar waxwing. Chim.swifts, Goldfinch, chickadee, hummers. Tree swallows, towhee calling, rb.nuthatch beeping.
Predictions:
Just might be another big day with the more favorable, for Jack's, SSE winds being forecast!!
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 10.5 hours
Official Counter: Connor Schmitt
Observers: David Kyler, Greg Grove
Visitors: A few campers from Raystown stopped by for a few minutes. Also a few local track stars.
Weather: Mostly Sunny with some good winds from the NW. Temperature ranged from low 60s in the morning to low 70s in the afternoon. Great day to be on the mountain
Raptor Observations: Good movement of migrating raptors throughout the day, but mainly in the late morning. From 9-11 there was a massive movement of Broad-wingeds, with 336 being seen just from 9-10. More slowly trickled throughout the day. Good diversity in raptor species as well.
Non-raptor Observations: Total species on the day: 36 Non-raptor species seen: Pigeon, Nighthawk Chimney Swifts, Hummingbirds, Black and Turkey Vultures, Barred Owl, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, Flicker, Yellow-throated Vireo, Blue Jays, Am. Crow, Ravens, Chickadees, Tree Swallows, Barn Swallow, RB Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Waxwings, Goldfinches, Towhee, Tennessee Warbler, Cape May Warblers, Blackpoll Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, and my favorite species: New World Warbler sp.
Predictions: S-SW winds may make for a slow day, but I'm no Nostradamus. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Date: 9/14/26 5:08 pm From: Lee, Jen <jal21...> Subject: NY PA Migration Alert for 14 Sep 2026
YIPPIE
~ Jen
________________________________
From: BirdCast Northeast Notifications <birdcast-alert...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 2:02:40 PM
To: Lee, Jen <jal21...>
Subject: NY PA Migration Alert for 14 Sep 2026
Date: 9/14/26 5:05 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
wow Jen, great count, what a beautiful day to be on the ridge
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Hawkcount.org reports <reports...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 7:58:05 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Jacks Mountain (14 Sep 2026) 1219 Raptors
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter Jen Lee
Observers: Diane Stewart
Visitors:
No visitors, but a great group of hawk watching chicks on the mountain! Deena, Carol, Jo and Diane were FANTASTIC scanners of the skies for today's big count!!
Weather:
A beautiful fall day! High of low 70s. Moderate winds from NNW all day. Very few clouds early but they gradually built up to help us spot the raptors.
Raptor Observations:
BWs were streaming early. Saw my first few about 2 mins after arrival and boom, the clicker was humming!. Streaming at high naked eye level, straight down the ridge to start. Birds went from high naked eye to mid/high binocular view fairly quickly. They also used both sides and middle of the ridge, with some streams starting on one side, crossing over and finishing on the other side. A few kettles up to 40-50 birds. Steady flow of birds all morning, tapered down from noon onward. We hoped for a late fallout but struck out. My first Harrier (female or imm.) of this season. 1 Am.Kestrel swooped in to check out our owl and landed on the top of the telephone pole 15 ft away. Later 2 Am. Kestrels came in an landed on the old tower for a few minutes.
Non-raptor Observations:
First Cormorants (13), TVs/BVs not counted, Modo, raven, cedar waxwing. Chim.swifts, Goldfinch, chickadee, hummers. Tree swallows, towhee calling, rb.nuthatch beeping.
Predictions:
Just might be another big day with the more favorable, for Jack's, SSE winds being forecast!!
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers: Diane Stewart
Visitors: No visitors, but a great group of hawk watching chicks on the mountain! Deena, Carol, Jo and Diane were FANTASTIC scanners of the skies for today's big count!!
Weather: A beautiful fall day! High of low 70s. Moderate winds from NNW all day. Very few clouds early but they gradually built up to help us spot the raptors.
Raptor Observations: BWs were streaming early. Saw my first few about 2 mins after arrival and boom, the clicker was humming!. Streaming at high naked eye level, straight down the ridge to start. Birds went from high naked eye to mid/high binocular view fairly quickly. They also used both sides and middle of the ridge, with some streams starting on one side, crossing over and finishing on the other side. A few kettles up to 40-50 birds. Steady flow of birds all morning, tapered down from noon onward. We hoped for a late fallout but struck out. My first Harrier (female or imm.) of this season. 1 Am.Kestrel swooped in to check out our owl and landed on the top of the telephone pole 15 ft away. Later 2 Am. Kestrels came in an landed on the old tower for a few minutes.
Non-raptor Observations: First Cormorants (13), TVs/BVs not counted, Modo, raven, cedar waxwing. Chim.swifts, Goldfinch, chickadee, hummers. Tree swallows, towhee calling, rb.nuthatch beeping.
Predictions: Just might be another big day with the more favorable, for Jack's, SSE winds being forecast!! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Thanks for the replies. We saw three BW today and my wife was able to photograph two of them.
Brent
On 9/14/2026 10:31 AM, Brent Bacon wrote: > I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas why there are so many > Broad-winged Hawks this year. I'm near the Spruce Run Area of the > Bald Eagle SF, and my wife and I have been seeing and photographing a > lot of immature Broad-winged Hawks. I will attach a few or our > pictures. This is just a few. We have been afforded some excellent > opportunities. > > Brent Bacon > > Lewisburg, Pa
Date: 9/14/26 10:17 am From: KATHLEEN BECHDEL <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> Subject: Bird watching opportunities this week
Hello, all,
Check out these opportunities to join guided bird walks this week.
In addition to the walk at Tudek Park (see information below) you can join us for the Millbrook Marsh Walk on Tuesday, September 15 from 8:00 - 9:30 am, Shaver's Creek Morning Migration Walk on Wednesday, September 16 from 7:30 - 9:00 am and Arboretum Walk on Thursday, September 17 from 8:00 - 9:30 am.
Additional information and other upcoming events are on our website scbirdcl.org.
Tudek Park
Saturday, September 19, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Trip Leader: Constanza Ehrenhaus
This walk will be designed for beginner birders, especially families with children. Of course, all are welcome. The area is stroller-friendly, and the walk will be kept to one hour to fit younger learners' attention spans. We will meet in the parking lot.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
Date: 9/14/26 9:40 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: Re: BWHA
Btw I took a friend to Lost Creek Shoe Shop to buy Binocs and Paul found us several kettles flying over the barn. A few miles from a mountain.
So I didnt even have to go to a mountain Hawkwatch.
And yes she got a great pair with lots of help from young Aden.
Deb
Deborah S. Grove
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Grove, Gregory William <gwg2...>
Sent: Monday, 14 September 2026 10:58:56
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: BWHA
Hawk watches in PA are getting fairly large numbers a bit ahead of the usual peak timing (third week Sept).
Perhaps it was a good year for reproduction as you mentioned seeing many Immatures.
Or BWs could be leaving northern grounds a bit early because of weather conditions or fire or whatever.
Greg Grove
eBird reviewer: Blair, Cambria, Clearfield, Huntingdon, Juniata, Mifflin
PBA Ridge and Valley Coordinator
Stone Mt. Hawk Watch, Winter Raptor Survey
Huntingdon, PA.
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Brent Bacon <00003a0903e6da96-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 10:31 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: BWHA
I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas why there are so many Broad-winged
Hawks this year. I'm near the Spruce Run Area of the Bald Eagle SF, and
my wife and I have been seeing and photographing a lot of immature
Broad-winged Hawks. I will attach a few or our pictures. This is just
a few. We have been afforded some excellent opportunities.
Date: 9/14/26 7:59 am From: Grove, Gregory William <gwg2...> Subject: Re: BWHA
Hawk watches in PA are getting fairly large numbers a bit ahead of the usual peak timing (third week Sept).
Perhaps it was a good year for reproduction as you mentioned seeing many Immatures.
Or BWs could be leaving northern grounds a bit early because of weather conditions or fire or whatever.
Greg Grove
eBird reviewer: Blair, Cambria, Clearfield, Huntingdon, Juniata, Mifflin
PBA Ridge and Valley Coordinator
Stone Mt. Hawk Watch, Winter Raptor Survey
Huntingdon, PA.
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Brent Bacon <00003a0903e6da96-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Monday, September 14, 2026 10:31 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: BWHA
I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas why there are so many Broad-winged
Hawks this year. I'm near the Spruce Run Area of the Bald Eagle SF, and
my wife and I have been seeing and photographing a lot of immature
Broad-winged Hawks. I will attach a few or our pictures. This is just
a few. We have been afforded some excellent opportunities.
Date: 9/14/26 7:32 am From: Brent Bacon <00003a0903e6da96-dmarc-request...> Subject: BWHA
I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas why there are so many Broad-winged Hawks this year. I'm near the Spruce Run Area of the Bald Eagle SF, and my wife and I have been seeing and photographing a lot of immature Broad-winged Hawks. I will attach a few or our pictures. This is just a few. We have been afforded some excellent opportunities.
Observation start time: 10:45:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers:
Visitors: Stephanie Perles and Reid Perles-LeClear from State College. Roseanna from Kish Valley was a superb spotter - I would point out a few BWs and she would count all without binoculars. But the visitors had left when the 800 BWs came through. One young hiker saw them NE of the watch site and asked what they were when he came past.
Weather: Ridge socked in with fog until 1045, when watch began. Wind W 6-7 mph, sky partly cloudy, temp 75-80F. It took awhile for the flight to develop.
Raptor Observations: The 958 BW was our 8th highest daily count in 32 years. About 800 came during 1550-1610, all gliding on the NW side.
Predictions: This is the start of the big BW week, expect Mon-Wed to be decent before rain arrives Thurs. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers: Darrell Smith
Visitors: Several Amish. Deena and grandson Andre.
Weather: Fog and mist until 11:00 am , then mostly cloudy until late afternoon, becoming party cloudy. Light winds on top of the mountain opening, appeared stronger below clearing, west winds
Raptor Observations: One immature Redtail seen several times not counted,Peregrine Falcon going wrong direction not counted. Otherwise slow day except 5 eagles between 2 and 3 including one with white head but body and tail colored like immature
Non-raptor Observations: Vultures like usual, almost no raven sightings, Towhees and Blue Jays. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Visitors: Due to the special Zeiss event, we had many eyes on the skies today including Reuben, Amos and Nathan Swarey, and LeRoy and Veron Kanagy.
Weather: Cooler with low humidity. All day complete cloud cover with winds from the SE. A few sprinkles but with no sun breaking through the clouds, valley thermals did not form well today.
Raptor Observations: Very little flight until around noon. With SE winds it was a disappointing morning. Turkey Vultures were around in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations: Lots of warblers: Black Throated Green, Tennessee, Black Pol, Yellow Rump, Black and White. Carolina Wren, Rose Breasted Grossbeak, Canadian Geese, Scarlet Tanager, Pileated Woodpecker, Flicker, Mourning Dove, five Hummingbirds, Nemo ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Doug Wentzel
Observers: Brady Thomas, George Young, Meredith Sweatlock
Visitors: Environmental Education Intern staff from Shaver's Creek
Weather:
Raptor Observations: Most birds passing high overhead;local TUVU, RTHA, and BAEA not counted.
Non-raptor Observations: Ruby-throated Hummingbird (7), Tree Swallows (64), Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Meadowlark, Tennessee Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Anderson (<jab56...>)
Date: 9/12/26 12:44 pm From: Tom Pluto <mapturtles...> Subject: Merlin
Hey Folks,
While just a few minutes ago, sitting on my deck, contemplating life, I had a Merlin fly closely overhead. Too big to be a Kestrel, too small to be a Peregrin. I've seen Merlins here a couple of times cruising quickly by over the years.
I miss the SCBirdlist comments on the internet. I assume that most of the local observations are now just submitted to eBird.
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Cindy Bickel
Observers: A local hawk watcher, Cindy Bickel
Visitors: A local friend of our watch stopped by in the morning and stayed all day! Was so thankful to have another person on the watch with a great set of eyes to help me out. Cheryl and Hank Velfoff of Warrior's Mark stopped by to see what we were seeing. They observed a Goshawk at their farm recently. Encouraged them to contact Jon Kauffman since he does nestbox studies on their property.
Weather: Lighter Northwest winds throughout the day with overcasting clouds that covered more than 80% of the sky, with occasional peaks of sunshine. Humid.
Raptor Observations: A good flight today which was a pleasant surprise, with a nice mix of raptors counted. Local Redtails, TV's and BV's were also seen.
Non-raptor Observations: Nemo & friend, Crows, Cedar Waxwings, Phoebee Flycatcher, Chimney Swifts and one Bluejay. Not too many Lantern Flies today which was a blessing. Just a reminder that on Saturday, September 12th a Zeiss representative and Ben Swarey from the Scope and Binocular Shoppe in Allensville will be at the watch, even though afternoon showers are predicted. All Zeiss products will be at least 20% off. One day only, cash or checks only! Southeast winds predicted so the Broad-wings should be flying! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Diane Stewart
Observers: Jen Lee, Phil Park
Visitors: Dena Stauffer helped with the watch today. She has great eyes! Todd and Diane Miller from Chester County stopped up on a cycle to take in the views. They are camping past Mount Union.
Weather: Overall a warm and sunny day with winds from the S and SW all day from 3-5MPH with some gusts up to 8MPH. Clouds in the sky helped with the view of raptors.
Raptor Observations: First bird, BW at 8:25. A steady flow of BW all day until 3:00. Birds were either singles or up to 12 in a group. No large kettles....yet! Eagles: I-9:39, M-9:52, A-10:57, I-12:57, I-2:01.
Non-raptor Observations: Jen noted a BV with no tail feathers at all. Nemo and friend were around most of the day. Cedar Waxwings, Catbird, Carolina Wren, Swallows, Northern Flicker, Blue Jays, Lantern flies. MOst birds were relatively close to the south side of the ridge and a decent height to be seen with the naked eye. Jen and I stayed until 5:00 (bird time) hoping to see a large group of BW come through. It did not happen. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 9/9/26 8:40 am From: Julia Plummer <julia...> Subject: Great Blue Heron trip -- Fisherman's Paradise/Bellefonte State Fish Hatchery, Sep 8, 2026
We had a lovely evening at Fisherman's Paradise watching Great Blue Herons
yesterday evening with around 33 people in attendance. If you missed the
event, that will continue to be a good spot to look for Great Blue Herons
throughout the fall. Other highlights of the evening included a small flock
of Cedar Waxwings feeding over the fish hatchery and frequent calls and
fly-bys of three Bald Eagles.
Notably, the fish hatchery personel have set up what appears to be a heron
deterant system. There is a tall pole next to the hatchery with a roving
green laser light. The light swings around in what appears to be a random
pattern across the hatchery and trees. And it did appear to cause a number
of the herons to fly down stream after sunset. So if you go visit around
sunset, keep an eye out for how the laser impacts the herons roosting!
Julia
Fisherman's Paradise/Bellefonte State Fish Hatchery, Centre, Pennsylvania,
US
Sep 8, 2026 6:46 PM - 7:59 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.151 kilometer(s)
14 species (+2 other taxa)
Canada Goose 11
Wood Duck 10
duck sp. 2
Mourning Dove 3
Ruby-throated Hummingbird 1
Great Blue Heron 42
Bald Eagle 3
Pileated Woodpecker 3
Common Raven 1
Carolina Wren 1
American Robin 5
Cedar Waxwing 10
Common Grackle 1
Bay-breasted Warbler 1
new world warbler sp. 1
Northern Cardinal 1
Date: 9/8/26 7:44 pm From: Blizard, David A <dab22...> Subject: Re: pictures of juvenile BW hawk at Stone Mt
Broad wing showing well in first pic!
Sent from my iPad
On Sep 8, 2026, at 8:09 PM, Lee, Jen <jal21...> wrote:
Awesome pics Nick and I bet that was quite the experience!! Lucky you !! Thanks for sharing the pics!
~ Jen
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...>
Sent: Tuesday, 08 September 2026 19:41:41
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: pictures of juvenile BW hawk at Stone Mt
While Jacks Mt has been tallying lots of broad-wings the last two days, I got the maximum show out of one juvenile BW that strafed the owl today at Stone Mt. I couldn't tell what buteo it was until it landed and gave its "pweee" call (picture 2). Broad-wings don't usually do such close strafing, but it happens occasionally.
Date: 9/8/26 5:08 pm From: Lee, Jen <jal21...> Subject: Re: pictures of juvenile BW hawk at Stone Mt
Awesome pics Nick and I bet that was quite the experience!! Lucky you !! Thanks for sharing the pics!
~ Jen
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...>
Sent: Tuesday, 08 September 2026 19:41:41
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: pictures of juvenile BW hawk at Stone Mt
While Jacks Mt has been tallying lots of broad-wings the last two days, I got the maximum show out of one juvenile BW that strafed the owl today at Stone Mt. I couldn't tell what buteo it was until it landed and gave its "pweee" call (picture 2). Broad-wings don't usually do such close strafing, but it happens occasionally.
Date: 9/8/26 4:42 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: pictures of juvenile BW hawk at Stone Mt
While Jacks Mt has been tallying lots of broad-wings the last two days, I got the maximum show out of one juvenile BW that strafed the owl today at Stone Mt. I couldn't tell what buteo it was until it landed and gave its "pweee" call (picture 2). Broad-wings don't usually do such close strafing, but it happens occasionally.
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers: Darrell Smith
Visitors: Slow day in parking lot
Weather: Clear blue skies most of the day. Almost no wind.
Raptor Observations: At 3:00 started together my stuff to leave, spotted a kettle of Broadwings with 2 adult Balds. Stayed an extra hour and had almost 400 BWs and 8 eagles.more.
Non-raptor Observations: 1 Hummingbird ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 9/8/26 8:59 am From: Ragan, Lawrence Christopher <lcr1...> Subject: Re: Early Birding Alerts
So Id like to add a little bit of history (maybe unknown) to this discussion as well.
In 1984 through 1987 I worked as an educator/trainer in the College of Ag at PSU. The College had received a 2M grant to computerize the Extension Service and my role was to train the faculty and staff how to use Macintosh computers. I was a more active birder as well.
One of the PEN deliverables was an early version of social media (we didnt use those words back then) called PENpages. PENpages was introduced internally for extension agents in 1984 and opened to the public in 1985. PENpages had tons of information and updates around agricultural topics.
One of the pages I started was a Rare Bird Alerts. Actually, I dont recall the actual title I used. Each week Id email this fellow named Dan Bruaning in Philly and get the updates. I am sure you all know Dans name, he is currently the Supervisor of the Wildlife Diversity Section of the Bureau of Wildlife Management, Pennsylvania Game Commission! Id then post those alerts to PENpages. I left the College in 1987 am I am pretty certain the project was not carried forward.
Not sure if anyone around those days was even aware of PENpages and these birding updates but I wanted to add this little bit of history.
Date: 9/8/26 8:54 am From: KATHLEEN BECHDEL <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> Subject: Birding Field Trips this week
Hello, all,
There are plenty of opportunities to join the State College Bird Club and their partners for birdwatching this week.
In addition to the Heron Watch at Fisherman's Paradise and Chicory Lane Farm Walk (see information below) you can join us for the Shaver's Creek Morning Migration Walk on Wednesday, September 9 from 7:30 - 9:00 am and Arboretum Walk on Thursday, September 10 from 8:00 - 9:30 am.
Additional information and other upcoming events are on our website scbirdcl.org.
Heron Watch at Fisherman's Paradise
Tuesday, September 8, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm (Raindate September 10)
Trip leader: Julia Plummer
Heronry at Fisherman's Paradise, at the end of Spring Creek Road, Bellefonte, PA. Watch the Great Blue Heron return to their roosts on the hillside behind the fish hatchery. Meet at the gate to the fish hatchery on the bridge between the first two parking areas. Bring a folding chair to set up along the fence.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
Date: 9/8/26 8:14 am From: Wentzel, Doug <djw105...> Subject: Re: Early Phone Lists
Such a fascinating piece of history (including the early days of email), and nice to see some familiar names including Mike M and John D, two of my Shaver’s Creek birding mentors. Thanks for sharing Deb!
And I remember calling the Cape May Bird Observatory’s hotline to listen to the weekly update of birds and places to help plan the weekend stay.
On Sep 7, 2026, at 2:02 PM, Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> wrote:
Before there was eBird and Discord, this is how the word of rarities was passed along. In the 1980s when we lived in the Philly area we would dial a number and then stand close together listening to Armas Hill tell about what birds in the Philly area
Deb
[State College Phone Tree.jpg][PA Phone Chain.jpg]
Date: 9/7/26 5:17 pm From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: Re: Early Phone Lists
There are a few I don’t know but 17 are still here or somewhere else
Deb
Deborah S. Grove
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Margaret Brittingham <mbrittingham01...>
Sent: Monday, 07 September 2026 19:54:13
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Early Phone Lists
Great to see this list. Brings back lots of memories of people who were a big part of the SCBIRDCL when I moved here.
On Mon, Sep 7, 2026 at 2:02 PM Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...><mailto:<dsg4...>> wrote:
Before there was eBird and Discord, this is how the word of rarities was passed along. In the 1980s when we lived in the Philly area we would dial a number and then stand close together listening to Armas Hill tell about what birds in the Philly area
Date: 9/7/26 4:54 pm From: Margaret Brittingham <mbrittingham01...> Subject: Re: Early Phone Lists
Great to see this list. Brings back lots of memories of people who were a
big part of the SCBIRDCL when I moved here.
On Mon, Sep 7, 2026 at 2:02 PM Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> wrote:
> Before there was eBird and Discord, this is how the word of rarities was
> passed along. In the 1980s when we lived in the Philly area we would dial a
> number and then stand close together listening to Armas Hill tell about
> what birds in the Philly area
>
> Deb
>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers:
Visitors: People checking out the valley views all day.
Weather: Mid 70s with mostly clear blue sky, light ESE winds.
Raptor Observations: Flight really started going around 9:30 (bird time) with 3 nice BW kettles (40, 45, 35). After the kettles, birds were streaming in small groups of 5-10 birds. Most birds were w very high all day, spotted with constant binocular scanning to find them. 1 adult & 1 imm. BE seemed to meander around the ridge all day. Saw them multiple times, looking like they were migrating, only to spot them backtracking or crossing the valleys, Adult followed by imm. every time. There were other BEs moving. Tough to discern between them at times. Tried best not to over count. 2 Peregrine's together.
Non-raptor Observations: I was expecting a light day. Glad I was so wrong! Strange loud BOOM heard at 10:28am from Big Valley side (sounded like an underground blast?). Other species: Flycatcher sp. (not a Phoebe), cedar wax, goldfinch, modo, c.wren, chickadees. Am.crow, rb.nut, downy, towhee, ravens, chim.swift, hummers. 26 Monarchs (they went up high too), 1 Yellow Swallowtail. Too many Lantern Flies. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 9/7/26 11:03 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: Early Phone Lists
Before there was eBird and Discord, this is how the word of rarities was passed along. In the 1980s when we lived in the Philly area we would dial a number and then stand close together listening to Armas Hill tell about what birds in the Philly area
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers: Diane Stewart
Visitors: Mr Mohler and Marie Ben Peachey
Weather: Party cloudy, winds light from NNW. Temperatures cool
Raptor Observations: Slow day with few raptors
Non-raptor Observations: Even vultures were slow with them disappearing from time to time ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers: Diane Stewart
Visitors: Many visitors in parking lot today with a couple from St Thomas spending time at rhe watch. Also visiting was Mr Mohler and friend Marie Figueroa.
Weather: Party cloudy, pleasant temperatures light NW winds
Raptor Observations: Great Eagle day with 26 goal including 7 at one time mostly adults. Good mix of other species
Non-raptor Observations: the usual local vultures, ravens, chimney Swifts, Tree Swallows, Cedar Waxwings. Also seen adult Red-headed Woodpecper ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Darrell Smith
Observers:
Visitors: Amy and Matt Cook from Strode Mills; They were in camp chairs looking over Big Valley when I arrived. I had a wonderful conversation with them. After about 2 hours they left. About 1:30 in the afternoon they came back with some fresh cooked muffins for me. What nice people. They said they will be back. Can't wait! Some other site seers and a young man who said that he would be back again. What a wonderful day!
Weather: Warm and overcast most of the day with 5-10 mph winds from the WNW.
Raptor Observations: This was big bird day! Adult Be's 11:16,12:26,1:40,2:43,2:59. Imm. Be's 12.58,1:22,1:40,1:44,1:48,1:53. Many TV's and BV's not migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: Chimney Swifts, Many Tree Swallows, Several Ravens, 17 Monarchs.
Predictions: Some possible showers in the morning clearing for the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Jon Kauffman, Ken Bowman
Observers: Ken Bowman, Meredith Sweatlock
Visitors: A couple from Bucks Co headed to their cabin for the weekend to hike thousand steps, golf, and kayak the juniata river.
Weather: Light winds from the NW all day with occasional gusts at 8-10mph. Partly cloudy with a combination of whispy and cumulus cloud formation. Afternoon had a period of 100% cloud cover as a small pocket of potential rain came from the west.
Raptor Observations: AMKE 2M 3F 1Unk
Good Osprey flight with ten in one hour and of those ten, six were circling together.
Non-raptor Observations: Red-headed Woodpecker(1) Red-breasted Nuthatch(1) Eastern Wood Pewee(1) Least Flycatcher(1) Yellow-throated Vireo(1) Tree Swallow (55) Barn Swallow(3) Black and White Warbler(1) Tennessee Warbler(2) Magnolia Warbler(1) Cape May Warbler(1) Blackburnian Warbler(1) Black-throated Green Warbler(2) warbler sp.(9)
Ruby-throated Hummungbird(21)
Lantern Flies, House Flies, Saddlebag Dragonflies, Tiger Swallowtails, Monarch(16) ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jon Kauffman (<jvk5019...>)
Date: 9/3/26 6:33 am From: Blizard, David A <dab22...> Subject: Re: Sayers Dam tonight
Great report, JPG! Presume nighthawks are migrating!?
Sent from my iPad
On Sep 2, 2026, at 10:17 PM, Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> wrote:
we got a big flock of nighthawks, a thousand blackbirds (mostly grackles), a splendid lightning show, and one participant saw a black bear on their way in
tomorrow morning Arboretum at 8 the Thursdays in September will be going forward
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...>
Sent: Wednesday, 02 September 2026 15:23:09
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Sayers Dam tonight
Bring the rain gear, a storm is predicted to be rolling through just before our 7:15 start time. Maybe we will get storm bird goodies, maybe a rainbow, we will only know if we get out there.
Sunset Bird Count at Sayer's Dam
Wednesday, September 2, 7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
Wednesday, October 7, 6:15 pm - 7:15 pm
Wednesday, November 4, 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Wednesday, December 2, 4:15 pm - 5:00 pm
Date: 9/2/26 7:16 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Sayers Dam tonight
we got a big flock of nighthawks, a thousand blackbirds (mostly grackles), a splendid lightning show, and one participant saw a black bear on their way in
tomorrow morning Arboretum at 8 the Thursdays in September will be going forward
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...>
Sent: Wednesday, 02 September 2026 15:23:09
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Sayers Dam tonight
Bring the rain gear, a storm is predicted to be rolling through just before our 7:15 start time. Maybe we will get storm bird goodies, maybe a rainbow, we will only know if we get out there.
Sunset Bird Count at Sayer's Dam
Wednesday, September 2, 7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
Wednesday, October 7, 6:15 pm - 7:15 pm
Wednesday, November 4, 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Wednesday, December 2, 4:15 pm - 5:00 pm
Date: 9/2/26 12:23 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Sayers Dam tonight
Bring the rain gear, a storm is predicted to be rolling through just before our 7:15 start time. Maybe we will get storm bird goodies, maybe a rainbow, we will only know if we get out there.
Sunset Bird Count at Sayer's Dam
Wednesday, September 2, 7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
Wednesday, October 7, 6:15 pm - 7:15 pm
Wednesday, November 4, 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Wednesday, December 2, 4:15 pm - 5:00 pm
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers: Darrell Smith
Visitors: Darrell Smith, Some Site Seers, Cindy Bickel stopped to say hello, A trucker with radiator problems asked for water until help come.
Weather: Light winds from the WSW & W. Overcast most of the day. Very warm.
Raptor Observations: Adult BE's 1:10, 1:38. Imm. BE's 2 @ 12:04 Many TV's & BV's not migrating. Red Tails not migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: Nemo, Goldfinches, Cedar Waxwings, 20 Monarchs, 3 hummingbirds, some flying ants and lantern flies.
Predictions: About the same. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers:
Visitors: Jen and Arthur
Weather: Wind initially SW 4-5 mph, switched to W 8-10 mph in afternoon, mostly sunny, temp 74-87F
Raptor Observations: BE - 2 Ad, AK - 1 F
Non-raptor Observations: Tree Swallow-123, Purple Martin-4 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Date: 9/1/26 7:43 am From: Lee, Jen <jal21...> Subject: Zeiss rep at Jacks Mt Hawk Watch 9/12
________________________________
From: Cindy Bickel <cindyb7689...>
Sent: Tuesday, September 1, 2026 10:38:41 AM
Hello all, here is information about a special event on 9/12 at Jacks. For some reason the document gets out of alignment when I try to send it through email. My apologies. Please share with fellow optics users and encourage them to attend. Raindate 9/19.
Thanks, Cindy
On 8/27/2026 1:31 PM, Don Kiel wrote: > Hi all, > > As a semi-retirement project (still working a bit!) I would like to > start a not-for-profit online birding blog where I could write, share > photos, and especially present some of the data I have recorded for > over 15 years on birds in our area of Gray Woods - sort of a citizen > science presentation platform with a healthy dose of (hopefully) > interesting graphics and pattern analysis. I don't want to spend a > lot of money on this, but I know good platform software and > registrations would have an initial cost along with renewals. I'm > pretty decent with IT and graphics in general but haven't done a blog > before. It's been suggested to me that WordPress might be a good > choice. I'd like to ask the group for any advice you can offer. > Thanks very much! > > Don Kiel > <skyco26...>
Date: 8/27/26 10:54 am From: Constanza Ehrenhaus <cxe1169...> Subject: Re: Birding blog question
Hi Don,
That sounds like such an interesting project! Wordpress is indeed very user
friendly, and they offer free and very accessible paid options depending on
what you want. I did a blog ages ago through them and now co-admin a
webpage for which I purchased the domain from them. It really is not
difficult.
Godspeed! I look forward to reading your blog!
Coty
On Thu, Aug 27, 2026 at 1:32 PM Don Kiel <
<00000ff91fe3ef40-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> As a semi-retirement project (still working a bit!) I would like to start
> a not-for-profit online birding blog where I could write, share photos, and
> especially present some of the data I have recorded for over 15 years on
> birds in our area of Gray Woods - sort of a citizen science presentation
> platform with a healthy dose of (hopefully) interesting graphics and
> pattern analysis. I don't want to spend a lot of money on this, but I know
> good platform software and registrations would have an initial cost along
> with renewals. I'm pretty decent with IT and graphics in general but
> haven't done a blog before. It's been suggested to me that WordPress might
> be a good choice. I'd like to ask the group for any advice you can offer.
> Thanks very much!
>
> Don Kiel
> <skyco26...>
>
Date: 8/27/26 10:48 am From: Zoey Greenberg <zoeytalon...> Subject: Re: Birding blog question
Hi Don,
Unlike you, I am notably challenged in the IT/tech department, and even so
have been able to run a bird blog for RRF off of Wordpress fairly easy. It’s
user-friendly in my opinion. However, RRF has a subscription so there are a
lot of creation tools at my disposal that may not be available otherwise.
Squarespace and Wix are also worth checking out. I’ve played around with
both. If I recall, Wix is the cheapest / free.
Here is an article written on Medium (another platform for getting your
words out) that compares the three platforms with pros and cons etc.
Hope this is a little helpful!
Zoey
On Thu, Aug 27, 2026 at 11:31 Don Kiel <
<00000ff91fe3ef40-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> As a semi-retirement project (still working a bit!) I would like to start
> a not-for-profit online birding blog where I could write, share photos, and
> especially present some of the data I have recorded for over 15 years on
> birds in our area of Gray Woods - sort of a citizen science presentation
> platform with a healthy dose of (hopefully) interesting graphics and
> pattern analysis. I don't want to spend a lot of money on this, but I know
> good platform software and registrations would have an initial cost along
> with renewals. I'm pretty decent with IT and graphics in general but
> haven't done a blog before. It's been suggested to me that WordPress might
> be a good choice. I'd like to ask the group for any advice you can offer.
> Thanks very much!
>
> Don Kiel
> <skyco26...>
>
Date: 8/27/26 10:31 am From: Don Kiel <00000ff91fe3ef40-dmarc-request...> Subject: Birding blog question
Hi all,
As a semi-retirement project (still working a bit!) I would like to start a not-for-profit online birding blog where I could write, share photos, and especially present some of the data I have recorded for over 15 years on birds in our area of Gray Woods - sort of a citizen science presentation platform with a healthy dose of (hopefully) interesting graphics and pattern analysis. I don't want to spend a lot of money on this, but I know good platform software and registrations would have an initial cost along with renewals. I'm pretty decent with IT and graphics in general but haven't done a blog before. It's been suggested to me that WordPress might be a good choice. I'd like to ask the group for any advice you can offer. Thanks very much!
Don Kiel
<skyco26...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Craig Kochel
Observers: Diane Stewart, Mark Shope
Visitors: Barb Yoder
Weather: Warm with south winds 5-10 mph all day. Mix of clouds and sun. Nice day save for the lantern flies and gnats
Raptor Observations: Most birds were flying along the ridge axis at moderate height very fast. Apparently there was a strong current running above the ridge. Only one Broadwing kettle occurred near the end of the count when wounds slacked off. Otherwise birds were largely streaming past in single file.
Pretty nice flight for early in the season.
Non-raptor Observations: Ravens (including Nemo)_, lots of TVs and TVs. Cardinals, many Cedar Wasxings, Bluejays, Peewee, Red Bellied WP, Goldfinches ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
I am interested in collaborating with this project, but on the 29th we are
doing a Feather Friendly dots installation. I would like to help in
October, if you can keep me in the loop.
Thank you!
Coty
PS: I love this project!
On Sun, Aug 23, 2026 at 2:14 PM Susan Hart <susancrandallhart...>
wrote:
Non-raptor Observations: RT Hummer-10, Chimney Swift-9, C. Nighthawk-2, Purple Martin-3, Tree Swallow-10, Barn Swallow-23, Chestnut-sided Warbler-1, Yellow-rumped Warbler-1 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Date: 8/25/26 10:39 am From: Constanza Ehrenhaus <cxe1169...> Subject: Rhoneymeade fall festival volunteers needed
Hi all,
Rhoneymeade is having a Fall Festival on Oct 24th. Before I ask if the State College Bird Club could join to table at their event, we would need to know if we have enough volunteers to table. Duties include picking up the table and materials from Millbrook marsh to set up before the festival, pick up and return materials to Millbrook, and share information with festival goers. Bonus points if you keep count of visitors. We do not need one person to do the whole festival, we've had events in which there is a rotation of volunteers taking 2 hours shifts. Whatever time you want to/can offer is welcome!
Date: 8/25/26 9:36 am From: <bluebird6771...> <000056793b0161d0-dmarc-request...> Subject: Fw: NestWatch eNews: New range-wide study on Tree Swallows, plus a surprising bluebird find
Tree Swallows and Eastern Bluebirds article below. Both species breeding in nest boxes at Soaring Eagle Wetland and Dreibelbis Birding Area Nick Kerlin
----- Forwarded Message -----From: NestWatch - Cornell Lab of Ornithology <nestwatch...>To: "<bluebird6771...>" <bluebird6771...>Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 12:26:32 PM EDTSubject: NestWatch eNews: New range-wide study on Tree Swallows, plus a surprising bluebird find
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#yiv5232506507templatePreheader .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent p{font-size:14px !important;line-height:150% !important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:480px){#yiv5232506507 #yiv5232506507templateHeader .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent, #yiv5232506507 #yiv5232506507templateHeader .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent p{font-size:16px !important;line-height:150% !important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:480px){#yiv5232506507 #yiv5232506507templateBody .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent, #yiv5232506507 #yiv5232506507templateBody .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent p{font-size:16px !important;line-height:150% !important;}}@media only screen and (max-width:480px){#yiv5232506507 #yiv5232506507templateFooter .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent, #yiv5232506507 #yiv5232506507templateFooter .yiv5232506507mcnTextContent p{font-size:14px !important;line-height:150% !important;}} In this issue: New study explained on our blog, plus a bluebird nest cam surprise
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NestWatch eNewsletter
August 2026
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| Tree Swallows by Jim McGinity / Macaulay Library. |
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On the Blog: Northern Tree Swallows Face a Nesting Season Squeeze
A new study of nearly 95,000 Tree Swallow nests from across North America found that they are laying eggs earlier as springs get warmer. Although Tree Swallows are adjusting their nesting timing in response to climate change, northern populations have been declining while southern populations have remained stable or even increased. The findings, reported in this month's blog post, suggest that birds in the north may have a harder time keeping up with rapid warming and other challenges, making them more vulnerable to population declines.
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| Eastern Bluebirds getting a snake delivery. Video by Becky Wylie. |
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Eastern Bluebirds Filmed Delivering a Steady Supply of Snakes to Nestlings
Becky Wylie and her husband have been observing bluebird nests in Missouri for many years, but this is the first year they installed a nest box with a built-in camera. It was immediately enlightening and surprising! They learned that their bluebird pair consistently delivered tiny snakes–still wriggling–to the nestlings as soon as they were large enough to swallow them (with some effort). The camera revealed that both ring-necked snake and DeKay's brown snake were repeatedly on the menu, adding to a small set of rare observations of ophiophagy (snake eating) in bluebirds. Watch a nestling eat one, if you dare.
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| Submission of the Month: Debbie Maas recorded this Western Warbling Vireo nest in Juneau, Alaska! Eastern and Western Warbling Vireos used to be known as one species–the Warbling Vireo–but were recently split into two separate species. Western Warbling Vireos breed over much of the western half of the continent, nesting in the outer portions of deciduous trees and tall shrubs.
Be sure to submit photos with your nest visit data for a chance to be featured here.
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| Submit Data to NestWatch |
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| Influx of Purple Martin Data
Thanks to Mike McCartney for submitting 179 nest records for upload to NestWatch! Have historical data you'd like to contribute? Contact us to learn about our bulk upload option. |
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| Welcome New Chapters
Our newest NestWatch Chapters are Academia Científica Escolar Yecos del INCO / Fundación Yecos Chile, of San Antonio, Chile, & Spearpoint Community of Weed, California. Find a Chapter near you! |
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| NestWatch Tip of the Month
Did you know? Archiving a nest site removes it from your nest site map and yet ensures that the data recorded for that nest site remains in our database. Nest sites can be archived when they are no longer in use, or if the nest box itself has been moved. A new nest site should be created when a nest box is moved more than 12″ (30cm) in any direction. Learn how to archive a nest in our FAQ. |
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| Photo credits: Purple Martin by Laura Frazier; Black-necked Stilt by Cristina Avila; Eastern Bluebirds by Leslie Clapp; American Robin nest by Laura Sprinkle; Indian Paradise-Flycatcher by Manish Panchal. |
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| The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a membership institution dedicated to interpreting and conserving the earth’s biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds.
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Date: 8/23/26 11:14 am From: Susan Hart <susancrandallhart...> Subject: Volunteer workday at Millbrook Marsh
Hi State College Bird Club members,
I just wanted to let you know about a volunteer opportunity at Millbrook
Marsh Nature Center, next Saturday, August 29. Starting at 9am and onward
into the afternoon, we will be working to clear an area on the side of the
education building, in preparation for a new native plant garden. Because
our bird feeder viewing area is located here, our goal is to create a space
filled with species and resources that support birds. This project has been
generously funded by the State College Bird Club, and is being completed in
partnership with members of the PA Native Plant Society and PA Master
Naturalists.
If you’re interested in joining us, please let me know at <suhart...> or
feel free to send me a text at (315) 345-6856. I will let you know if plans
change because of the weather.
Thanks for considering it! If you are interested but can’t make it this
time, I can let folks know about our planting date in October.
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 2.25 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers: Craig Kochel
Weather: Early fog burned off before I was on the Mt. W-WNW winds 8-10mph. Big clouds moving through. Short shower around 11:30.
Raptor Observations: A few birds moving for some early season warmup! TV/BVs not counted.
Non-raptor Observations: Heard or saw 2 Ruby-throated Hummers chasing each other, barn & tree swallows moving through, N.Flicker, Pileated. Ind.Bunting, Goldfinches, Cedar Waxwings, Ravens. Mourning Dove. Lanternflies, Gnats. Small sinkhole in gravel mound near steps. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
| 2026 Nestbox Summary |
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| Soaring Eagle/Dreibelbis Birding Area |
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| Species | Fledged | Eggs/Young Lost |
| Eastern Bluebird | 11 | 15 |
| Tree Swallow | 41 | 23 |
| BC Chickadee | 0 | 7 |
Weather (cold, rain, heat) and predation (possibly snake? snakes) took a toll on fledgling success during this 15th year of monitoring. Eastern Bluebird results were the lowest for the past six years. Tree Swallows were the third lowest for the same period. The addition of new baffles and box relocations hopefully will remedy the predator problem.Occupancy rate was 94% of boxes present.
Monitors: Nick Kerlin and Mark Nale
Date: 8/19/26 5:09 am From: KATHLEEN BECHDEL <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> Subject: Fall Schedule of Events
Hello,
Below is the list of fall events. All of this information is available on the websitehttps://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.scbirdcl.org%2F&data=05%7C02%<7Cscbirdcl...>%7Cd3bc92f0947144531eea08defde998c1%7C7cf48d453ddb4389a9c1c115526eb52e%7C0%7C0%7C639227376912246689%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=2B08ye1zeF%2FU8NupOnJgBPL2nmeWQu5bLKZLD%2FWDsX0%3D&reserved=0 .
Fall 2026 Field Trips of the State College Bird Club
All field trips are open to members and non-members.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
Heron Watch at Fisherman's Paradise
Tuesday, September 8, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm (Raindate September 10)
Trip leader: Julia Plummer
Heronry at Fisherman's Paradise, at the end of Spring Creek Road, Bellefonte, PA. Watch the Great Blue Heron return to their roosts on the hillside behind the fish hatchery. Meet at the gate to the fish hatchery on the bridge between the first two parking areas. Bring a folding chair to set up along the fence.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
Tudek Park
Saturday, September 19, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Trip Leader: Constanza Ehrenhaus
This walk will be designed for beginner birders, especially families with children. Of course, all are welcome. The area is stroller-friendly, and the walk will be kept to one hour to fit younger learners' attention spans. We will meet in the parking lot.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
Penns Prairie at Tri-County Municipal Park, Centre Hall, PA
Sunday, September 27, 7:30 am - 9:00am
Trip Leaders: Andrew Bechdel and Leigh Rix
Penn's Prairie is a multi-purpose park integrating recreation, wildlife conservation, and historical prairie restoration and preservation. The park is located at 2400 Upper Brush Valley Road, Centre Hall, PA 16828.
Join Andrew Bechdel and Leigh Rix (Watershed Specialist and Education Coordinator for Centre County Conservation District) for a leisurely walk throughout Penns Prairie Park outside Centre Hall, Pa. This newly developed, multi-purposed park provides opportunities for a variety of avian life such as nesting grassland sparrows, Red-headed Woodpeckers, and American Kestrels. Although this park has been open to the public since August of 2018, an understanding of avian life is still in the works and we hope to increase community efforts in helping understand the changes throughout the development of the park.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
Canoe Creek State Park
Saturday, October 3, 8:00 am - 9:30 am
Trip Leader: Connor Schmitt
Connor Schmitt will lead a walk through a variety of habitats at one of Blair County's top birding spots. The walk will include scanning the lake for waterfowl, walking through a meadow and on a boardwalk that hugs the lake. This field trip is also sponsored by the Juniata Valley Audubon Society.
After entering the park, drive straight to the T in front of the large parking area. Turn left and park at the farthest lot next to a picnic pavilion and the restrooms.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
**This trip has yet to be scheduled** Bald Eagle State Park
Trip Leader: Bob Snyder
We will meet at the Swimming Beach at Bald Eagle State Park and visit various locations around the main park area including the beach, winter launch, the Sunken Road Overlook. Additional possible locations will be a drive to the top of the dam for a short walk down the service road to view Hunter's Cove and the emergency spillway marsh at the dam.
We will be looking for waterfowl on the lake and also hope to find winter birds such as Northern Shrike, Snow Buntings, American Pipits and American Tree Sparrows.
Please consider the weather and wear appropriate cold weather gear and sturdy boots. An orange vest is also recommended. Binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras are also encouraged.
This field trip is open to members and non-members.
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