Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Darrell Smith
Observers:
Visitors: Just some site seers.
Weather: A cool day with low overcast clouds all day with 8-12mph winds from the West & NW.
Raptor Observations: Adult GE's 10:11, 11:22 & 3:52. Imm. GE's 1:34 5 BE's not migrating. I saw 3 Suspected BE's dropping out of the clouds and going north. I didn't see any migrating. I suspect there were other birds going south that I did not see because of the low Cloud cover. All birds seen were relatively low.
The 11:22 GE put down its landing gear as it passed going south and was gliding downward probably seeing a possible meal. A Merlin not migrating going north.
Non-raptor Observations: Many small birds migrating that I could not identify. Several ravens including Nemo. He was very talkative today and helped watch for GE's.
Predictions: Cold and cloudy with WNW winds at 15 to 25 mph. Higher gusts possible. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/13/26 2:54 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (13 Nov 2026) 39 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 13, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Deb Rittelmann, Don Pote, Peggy Wagoner, Robert McLaughlin
Visitors: Dan Gericke
Weather: Wind NW 5-12 mph, mostly overcast, temp 37-41F. Today, like several other days from 2025 with light to moderate NW winds, it seemed like birds were extra high without thermals and getting a boost from an enhanced updraft.
Raptor Observations: GE(18): 928 Ad, 937 Ad, 1003 Ad, 1033 Ad, 1052 Ad, 1057 Unk, 1145 Ad, 1147 Unk, 1154 Ad, 1216 Unk, 1226 Sub, 1231 Unk, 1302 Unk(2), 1426 Unk, 1510 Ad, 1516 Ad, 1550 Ad. All of the GEs were over BE Mt, many very high and 7 unaged for that reason.
BE: 2 Ad, 2 Imm
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Saturday: wind WNW 10-14 mph, I expect a similar flight to today. Sunday: wind NW 8-11 mph, should see GEs. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jon Kauffman
Observers: Tom Filip
Weather: Overcast with winds from the NW at 8-12mph.
Raptor Observations: A few local RTHA, adult BAEA, BLVU, and Turkey Vultures.
GOEA: SUB (12:00)
Non-raptor Observations: Common Loon(8) Canada Goose(10) Pine Siskin(25) ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jon Kauffman (<jvk5019...>)
Date: 11/12/26 7:20 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: picture of an initially mis-identified eagle
This picture from Monday at Bald Eagle Mt shows a juvenile bald eagle with subdued white colors in the wingpits and a long tail that gave it the proportions of a golden eagle. Initially, I called it a golden, but changed the ID to bald after looking at the picture. Typically, the white in the wingpits of a juvenile bald is strikingly white.
Date: 11/12/26 10:10 am From: Brady Thomas <brady.s.thomas98...> Subject: November 18th, 7pm: Amber Wiewel presents on the halfway point of the PA Bird Atlas
Good afternoon Bird Club!
Please join us next week on *Wednesday, November 18th at 7pm* for our November Bird Club meeting at *Millbrook Marsh*!
The Pennsylvania Bird Atlas, an important project documenting the breeding and wintering birds of the Commonwealth, is at the halfway point! Join Atlas Coordinator Amber Wiewel to hear how the data collection is progressing, to see trends in some of our bird populations, and to learn how you can contribute your valuable birding data to the Atlas to help support Pennsylvania birds. [image: CombinedLogo_Mark.png] There will be a zoom for this presentation as well, that you can find here: https://psu.zoom.us/meeting/register/z8SsNn6ASNKKwlqKr9hJHA
Predictions: Rain in morning. North winds in afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Diane Stewart
Observers:
Visitors: Suzanne Byler. Dena Stauffer and two of her granddaughters. Doug from Bellefonte and Aline from Loganton.
Weather: Seasonably warm with light winds out of the SW all day.
Raptor Observations: First bird was a RT at 10:58. IBE with RT diving at it just after a random observer left the parking lot.
Non-raptor Observations: Raven was first bird in the air at 9:48. Not much local raven or TV activity until afternoon. Pine siskin. Robins. Blue Jays. Junco. Goldfinch. Golden-crowned Kinglet. BC Chickadee. Cedar Waxwings.
Predictions: Rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/11/26 7:41 am From: Wentzel, Doug <djw105...> Subject: Fwd: State College Christmas Bird Count (CBC) 2026
Hi all,
Thanks to Sue Braun for her leadership and thanks to Joe Gyekis for volunteering to help.
I recall my first CBC in the early 1990s, tagging along with Nick Bolgiano, and learning about finding birds, field id, note taking, distribution of species… you get the idea, Nick is a great mentor. Participating in the CBC is a fun way to learn from others and it is also one of the most enjoyable birding experiences of the year. Hope you can join the State College CBC!
Best,
Doug
From: Susan Braun <braun3112...>
Subject: State College Christmas Bird Count 2026
Date: November 9, 2026 at 8:59:13 AM EST
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Reply-To: Susan Braun <braun3112...>
The State College Christmas Bird Count for 2026 will take place on Sunday, Dec 20, 2026.
Please email me, Sue Braun, at <braun3112...><mailto:<braun3112...> if you wish to participate.
Email me if you:
- want to do the same route or prefer a different route
- want to participate and do not have a route,
- want to accompany someone else on their route if a route is available
- any other questions
Thank you to Bob Fowles for all his work with the State College CBC. He has stepped aside as a SC CBC compiler, and we appreciate all the work he has done to make the SC CBC a huge success.
Please email me with any questions. Joe Gyekis will be our other circle leader.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Moderate winds that unfortunately turn SW around noon. Mostly sunny and pleasant
Raptor Observations: First 2 hours nothing not even vultures. Late in the 2nd hour the first eagle. 8-9 turkey vultures may have been going somewhere, but not very high and not counted. Several Redtails not counted.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/10/26 2:43 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (10 Nov 2026) 14 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 10, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Craig Kochel, Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Bill Chambers, Craig Kochel, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Dave and Linda Evans from Virginia
Weather: Wind first WSW light, then W at mostly 8-15 mph, clear, temp 54-60F
Raptor Observations: GE: 1006 Unk. Bill and Craig found one that crossed from the foothills then across BE Mt and headed SSW. It came from the area where one appeared to roost the day before. The GE pipeline was relatively empty today.
BE: 2 Imm
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Next watch days: Friday-Saturday-Sunday with NW winds. Not sure if any of Thursday will be rain free. I expect a modest pulse of GEs over these days. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Connor Schmitt
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Brutally cold strong winds out of the NW with some light sporadic drizzle in the morning, or as I call it, the perfect fall day.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: 10:11 - age unknown, almost snuck by me before I got eyes on it. 2:27 - juvenile. Thankfully a unkindness of ravens were earning their name as they ganged up on the goldie as it passed by. Bald Eagles: 2 adults (8:47,10:18) 3 sub-adults (11:13 [2], 2:05).
Non-raptor Observations: Group of 50 common loons flying high to the SE at 9:04. Woodpeckers: Red-belly, Pileated. Blue jays, crows, ravens, chickadees, titmice (titmouses?), GC kinglet, WB Nutty, creeper, starlings, Robins (158), waxwings, siskins (11), goldfinches. Also found a salamander on the walk back. Thinking Northern Slimy Salamander, but I'm not an experienced Herper. Photo of it is on the checklist
Predictions: Mostly a western wind. I don't know what that will entail. I thought today would be a good flight. Wrong Again!!
Although there was supposedly rain in New York which would affect the movement of birds down this way. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers:
Weather: A rather blustery day! Light rain squalls in the morning, sun squalls all day. 12-15 mph wind with stronger gusts from the West in the morning, shifted to NW afternoon. Quickly moving cloud cover ranging from 60-90%.
Raptor Observations: A Bald Eagle bonanza! First bird 9:16am, adult Bald Eagle. Tied for 3rd all time, 19 Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: A Loony morning! 77 Loons in many groupings and I'm sure I missed some when the Eagles were in view. Ravens, Goldfinches, Robins, 8 smaller Gulls (probably Ring-billed) and 1 larger Herring Gull, GC Kinglets, Downy, Pileated, Bluejays Local TVs, BVs, Redtails, 2 Balds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/9/26 2:40 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (09 Nov 2026) 50 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 09, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 16:15:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Deb Rittelmann, Don Pote, Peggy Wagoner, Ron Rovansek
Visitors: Alice Kelsey, Joe Sabo
Weather: Wind WNW, mostly 8-15 mph, cloudy with periodic light rain in a.m., temp 44-51F
Raptor Observations: GE(13: 12 Ad, 1 Unk): 938 Ad, 957 Ad, 1045 Ad, 1059 Ad, 1101 Ad, 1130 Ad, 1201 Ad, 1206 Ad, 1230 Ad, 1231 Unk, 1243 Ad, 1303 Ad, 1555 Ad. All the GEs flew along the NW side of Bald Eagle Mt. The GE season total to date is the same as it was a year ago, with similar build-up.
BE: 9 Ad, 3 Imm
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Next watch day: Tuesday, with predicted wind W 10-13 mph (start mid-a.m.). Off Wed-Thurs. Resume Friday, NW 10-12 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Date: 11/9/26 5:59 am From: Susan Braun <braun3112...> Subject: State College Christmas Bird Count 2026
The State College Christmas Bird Count for 2026 will take place on *Sunday, Dec 20, 20**26.*
Please email me, Sue Braun, at <braun3112...> if you wish to participate. Email me if you: - want to do the same route or prefer a different route - want to participate and do not have a route, - want to accompany someone else on their route if a route is available - any other questions
Thank you to Bob Fowles for all his work with the State College CBC. He has stepped aside as a SC CBC compiler, and we appreciate all the work he has done to make the SC CBC a huge success. Please email me with any questions. Joe Gyekis will be our other circle leader.
Date: 11/8/26 3:38 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: some good birds on the field trip to Bald Eagle SP 11/8/26
]=Hello All,
I'll write a more detailed report this week. But for now I just wanted to post three of my photos from today's birding trip.
First, we did see a White-winged Scoter fly towards the dam from where we stood at the Sunken Road Overlook. A large black duck-like bird (black all over) with white secondaries showing on both wings. I didn't have the camera handy (it was on the car seat). But got good looks through the Zeiss binoculars as it receded into the distance.
We then went to the dam overlook in hopes of seeing it again, but had no luck.
However, at the dam we did have 25 American Coots, one Redhead and one Red-throated Loon.
Bob Snyder
[image: American Coots III PB082029 copy.jpg] American Coots [image: AMCOs and REDH BESP PB082000-2 copy.jpg] Redhead and American Coots [image: RTLO I PB082068-2 copy.jpg] Red-throated Loon
-- Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have. Theodore Roosevelt
Date: 11/8/26 3:13 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (08 Nov 2026) 37 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 08, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Dan Ombalski, Ron Rovansek
Visitors: Alice and Tim Kelsey, Tristan Ombalski, Karl Striedieck
Weather: Wind first WSW, then W, then WSW again, mostly 8-15, partly cloudy becoming clear, temp 44-55F.
Raptor Observations: GE: 1055 Ad, 1134 Ad. The first was over the far foothills, the second along Bald Eagle Mt.
BE: 2 Ad, 4 Imm
Non-raptor Observations: C. Loon-10
Predictions: Predicted wind WNW 10-15 mph, which is favorable. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Date: 11/8/26 10:02 am From: Debra Rittelmann <dlrittelmann...> Subject: Re: You never know what you will see here at our Penns Valley place
Those are really great photos, Larry! Thanks!
Deb Rittelmann
On Sat, Nov 7, 2026 at 8:26 PM Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...> wrote:
> During breakfast today we saw two Black Vultures (BLVU) on the roof of our
> barn which we have occasionally seen before. Then bit before noon today
> Mary called to me from the kitchen saying a Black Vulture (BLVU) was in the
> patio bird bath. I was on the second floor in my ""office ad looked out the
> window and saw 3 BLVU nearby on the breakfast nook roof near the birdbath
> and grabbed a camera and got some quick photos (attached BLVU-1 thru 3)
> then went downstairs to see the one in the birdbath but it had moved to the
> chair at our patio table about 15 ft away (BLVU_4). When downloading on
> the computer and looking at the pics, it was clear that the head plumage
> patter on all four were different. BLVU 1 thru 5 were juvenile molts and
> BLVU_4 was adult plumage per Birds of the World. Never notice this
> before; still learning something new after eight decades!
> Larry
>
Date: 11/8/26 6:11 am From: Faith M. Lucchesi, Esquire <faith...> Subject: Re: You never know what you will see here at our Penns Valley place
Wonderful pictures! Thanks for sharing.
Best regards,
Faith M. Lucchesi, Esq.
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...>
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 8:28 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: You never know what you will see here at our Penns Valley place
During breakfast today we saw two Black Vultures (BLVU) on the roof of our barn which we have occasionally seen before. Then bit before noon today Mary called to me from the kitchen saying a Black Vulture (BLVU) was in the patio bird bath. I was on the second floor in my ""office ad looked out the window and saw 3 BLVU nearby on the breakfast nook roof near the birdbath and grabbed a camera and got some quick photos (attached BLVU-1 thru 3) then went downstairs to see the one in the birdbath but it had moved to the chair at our patio table about 15 ft away (BLVU_4). When downloading on the computer and looking at the pics, it was clear that the head plumage patter on all four were different. BLVU 1 thru 5 were juvenile molts and BLVU_4 was adult plumage per Birds of the World. Never notice this before; still learning something new after eight decades!
Larry
Date: 11/7/26 5:58 pm From: Deborah <d5me16...> Subject: Re: You never know what you will see here at our Penns Valley place
Nice capture of vultures. Thanks for the description.
Deb
On Sat, 7 Nov 2026 at 8:26 PM Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...> wrote:
> During breakfast today we saw two Black Vultures (BLVU) on the roof of our
> barn which we have occasionally seen before. Then bit before noon today
> Mary called to me from the kitchen saying a Black Vulture (BLVU) was in the
> patio bird bath. I was on the second floor in my ""office ad looked out the
> window and saw 3 BLVU nearby on the breakfast nook roof near the birdbath
> and grabbed a camera and got some quick photos (attached BLVU-1 thru 3)
> then went downstairs to see the one in the birdbath but it had moved to the
> chair at our patio table about 15 ft away (BLVU_4). When downloading on
> the computer and looking at the pics, it was clear that the head plumage
> patter on all four were different. BLVU 1 thru 5 were juvenile molts and
> BLVU_4 was adult plumage per Birds of the World. Never notice this
> before; still learning something new after eight decades!
> Larry
>
Date: 11/7/26 5:27 pm From: Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...> Subject: You never know what you will see here at our Penns Valley place
During breakfast today we saw two Black Vultures (BLVU) on the roof of our barn which we have occasionally seen before. Then bit before noon today Mary called to me from the kitchen saying a Black Vulture (BLVU) was in the patio bird bath. I was on the second floor in my ""office ad looked out the window and saw 3 BLVU nearby on the breakfast nook roof near the birdbath and grabbed a camera and got some quick photos (attached BLVU-1 thru 3) then went downstairs to see the one in the birdbath but it had moved to the chair at our patio table about 15 ft away (BLVU_4). When downloading on the computer and looking at the pics, it was clear that the head plumage patter on all four were different. BLVU 1 thru 5 were juvenile molts and BLVU_4 was adult plumage per Birds of the World. Never notice this before; still learning something new after eight decades!
Larry
Date: 11/7/26 5:22 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (07 Nov 2026) 22 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 07, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Bill Chambers, Dan Hannon, Peggy Wagoner, Ron Rovansek, Tom Filip
Visitors: Joe Sabo, Alice and Tim Kelsey, Judy Sinn, Karl Striedieck
Weather: Wind W 4-10 mph (lighter than forecast), becoming overcast with light rain 1450-1620, temp 42-47F. The wind regime is switching to one from the W/NW, which is favorable for our site.
Raptor Observations: GE(8): 1046 Sub, 1057 Ad, 1149 Sub, 1211 Imm, 1240 Ad, 1259 Ad, 1347 Ad, 1408 Juv Seven of the GEs flew along BE Mt, #4 was over the Allegheny Front foothills.
BE: 4 Ad, 1 Imm
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Next watch days, with predicted winds: Sunday - W/WSW 10-13 mph Monday - WNW 12-15 mph (best) Tuesday - 10-13 WSW/W ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Date: 11/7/26 3:21 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: Re: Reminder for Sunday's bird walk
Hello All, just a reminder to check the weather forecast for tomorrow. It
will be very windy and chilly. Hopefully some good birds will stopover at
the lake tonight.
See you at 8 am!
Bob Snyder
Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have.
Theodore Roosevelt
On Sat, Nov 7, 2026 at 6:18 PM Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...>
wrote:
>
>
>
> Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have.
> Theodore Roosevelt
>
> On Sat, Nov 7, 2026 at 2:30 PM Kathy Bechdel <
> <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
>> *Bald Eagle State Park*
>>
>>
>>
>> *November 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am*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.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
Date: 11/7/26 3:19 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: Re: Reminder for Sunday's bird walk
Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have.
Theodore Roosevelt
On Sat, Nov 7, 2026 at 2:30 PM Kathy Bechdel <
<0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> *Bald Eagle State Park*
>
>
>
> *November 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am*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.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Raptor Observations: 1st bird Redtail 8:51am. Imm. Golden 9:03, escorted by Nemo, who then circled right over me, turned and landed on the tower. Later a pair of adult Balds escorted an immature Bald down the ridge and then they turned and headed across the valley toward Stone around 10:35. Will Stone get to count them? 11:00am to 4:00pm Adult BE 1:02. Adult GE's 2 @ 12:49,!:57,2:19,3:03 Imm. GE 2:19 Local Red-Tails, TV's & BV's.
Non-raptor Observations: 12 Cormorants, Juncos, TVs, goldfinch, cedar ww, downy, wb nuthatch, chickadees, gc kingkets, a.crow, pileated, raven, bluejay, robins, starlings. Local Group of 10 Ravens.
Predictions: Some clouds in morning turning to mainly sunny skies. Winds from the West 10 to 20 MPH. Could be another big bird day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/7/26 11:30 am From: Kathy Bechdel <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> Subject: Reminder for Sunday's bird walk
Bald Eagle State Park
November 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am
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.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jon Kauffman
Observers: Sarah Carney
Visitors: A gentlemen from Virginia
Weather: Cloud cover was sparse and winds were variable and light from the WSW until about 10:45am. Thereafter, cloud cover increased from the NW and winds shifted from the W at 8-12mph.
Raptor Observations: Very few raptor/vulture activity until the winds shifted. Once the shift occurred, RT, BV, TV, immature BE, and Common Ravens started to meander around upridge and above the platform. The BE's and Ravens being the most playful with each other. This went on for about 90 minutes. None exhibited any migratory behavior.
GOEA: AD(11;450 AD(2:58) AD(2:59) Juv(314)
Non-raptor Observations: Common Loon(2) Pine Siskin(65) Purple Finch(2) Snow Bunting(1)
Common True Katydid still singing and seen on nearby trees.
Predictions: West winds with cooler temps might bring another eagle or two. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jon Kauffman (<jvk5019...>)
Date: 11/6/26 1:50 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (06 Nov 2026) 22 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Nov 06, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Raptor Observations: GE: 1216 Unk, 1413 Ad. Both flew around to the R and out of sight. The first flew on 8 mph W wind with some sun (decent), but the second flew on 4 mph W and overcast (minimal) and flapped across the gap.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: The next 5 days are watch days, with favorable winds. Tomorrow, Saturday: 12-13 mph W. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 10:45:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 4.25 hours
Official Counter: Connor Schmitt
Observers: Ron Crandall
Visitors: Two hikers and their dog Taco.
Weather: high 60s and cloudy with some strong winds out the w-sw.
Raptor Observations: Golden eagle Juvenile at 11:35 getting 'escorted' by the quadfecta of ravens who were later seen bickering amongst themselves. Photos on checklist.
Female harrier broke 3 hours of no birds when it went by at 2:37. Photos on checklist
Predictions: seemingly similar conditions, except it'll be colder and winds may be slightly more western. could be okay. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 11:15:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 4.25 hours
Official Counter: Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors: Two motorcyclists from Rhode Island stopped by to chat about the hawk watch for a while and a local couple from 522 Mt. Union area also came by to chat.
Weather: Humid, sunny and breezy after the morning showers. Southeast winds dropped off after 12:00 and were much lighter the remainder of the day.
Raptor Observations: One local Red-tail was very active today, along with local Turkey and Black Vultures. A kettle of 8 Blacks and the local Red-tail entertained me for quite some time. They came from the West and eventually headed East towards Lewistown.
Non-raptor Observations: A high soaring unkindness of Raven's (6), as well as Crows, a Pileated Woodpecker and Black-capped Chickadees. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Predictions: rain in AM followed by strong south winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Diane Stewart
Observers: Darrell Smith, Jen Lee
Visitors: Barb Wilson helped out for a few hours. Bev Miller and Suzanne Byler from Belleville. Ed Stewart made his first trip to the site. A number of leaf peepers.
Weather: Cool with winds out of the SE and S all day. Bright skies with high wispy clouds.
Raptor Observations: First SS at 9:17. The most beautiful GE I have ever seen. The sun was at the perfect angle to highlight the underside so that the upper chest to the neck looked like someone took a gilded paint and actually brushed the raptor to perfection.
Non-raptor Observations: Murder of crows late in the day. An unkindness of 10 ravens. Starlings. Blue jays, Carolina Wren, Downy WP, Goldfinch, Junco, Chickadee, Golden-Crowned Kinglet.
Predictions: Rain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/3/26 6:58 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Birding opportunities this week
ride is settled now, thanks and see some of you tomorrow evening
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...>
Sent: Tuesday, 03 November 2026 19:38:00
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Birding opportunities this week
for the field trip tomorrow, my car is in the garage and I wonder if anyone would be willing to give me and perhaps another friend a ride from State College to Bald Eagle State Park for the activity tomorrow?
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of KATHLEEN BECHDEL <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Tuesday, 03 November 2026 10:47:17
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Birding opportunities this week
Wednesday, November 4 from 4:30 - 5:30 pm - Sunset at Sayer's Dam hosted by Joe Gyekis.
Thursday, November 5 from 8:00 - 9:30 am - Arboretum Walk hosted by Joe Gyekis.
Bald Eagle State Park
November 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am
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.
Observation start time: 11:45:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 3.25 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers:
Weather: Mostly sunny, surprising SSE winds
Raptor Observations: A few Redtails, 2 bald eagles, one Northern Harrier
Non-raptor Observations: Slow day in the parking lot ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/3/26 4:38 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Birding opportunities this week
for the field trip tomorrow, my car is in the garage and I wonder if anyone would be willing to give me and perhaps another friend a ride from State College to Bald Eagle State Park for the activity tomorrow?
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of KATHLEEN BECHDEL <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Tuesday, 03 November 2026 10:47:17
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Birding opportunities this week
Wednesday, November 4 from 4:30 - 5:30 pm - Sunset at Sayer's Dam hosted by Joe Gyekis.
Thursday, November 5 from 8:00 - 9:30 am - Arboretum Walk hosted by Joe Gyekis.
Bald Eagle State Park
November 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am
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.
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Greg Grove, Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Greg Grove, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Wind S, 1-3 mph until noon, then 4-6 mph, sky clearing, temp 60-69F
Raptor Observations: A Merlin flew past the owl decoy and landed in a nearby tree, where it perched for 9 minutes, until it flew when a Red-tail flew overhead.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: S/SSE wind 8-10 mph ======================================================================== Report submitted by Greg Grove (<gwg2...>)
Date: 11/3/26 12:22 pm From: Peggy Wagoner Saporito <raven966...> Subject: October 28 Bird Club meeting minutes
Hello everyone,
Hope you are enjoying this lovely (though somewhat disconcertingly warm) weather. Please find attached minutes from our meeting last week in both Word and PDF forms.
Date: 11/3/26 7:47 am From: KATHLEEN BECHDEL <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> Subject: Birding opportunities this week
Wednesday, November 4 from 4:30 - 5:30 pm - Sunset at Sayer's Dam hosted by Joe Gyekis.
Thursday, November 5 from 8:00 - 9:30 am - Arboretum Walk hosted by Joe Gyekis.
Bald Eagle State Park
November 8, 8:00 am - 11:00 am
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.
Predictions: Similar conditions to today ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Date: 11/2/26 2:58 pm From: Merrill David <mer22david...> Subject: Re: Would anyone like this book?
Clearwater also has a library, and might like to have it?
On Mon, Nov 2, 2026 at 3:25 PM Jonathan Siegle <jsiegle...> wrote:
> Tina,
> I do volunteer work with DCNR. I would be happy to take it off
> your hands and find a suitable home for it if there are no other takers.
>
> -Jonathan Siegle
>
> On 2026-11-02 at 19:18, Hay, Tina wrote:
>
> >
> > I have a copy of a thick book on the birds of Pennsylvania that dates to
> 1890 — but before you get TOO excited, it’s
> > not exactly in pristine condition. It looks like it was exposed to
> moisture or even water; the overall book is a little
> > warped and some of the pages have what look like water stains along the
> edges. Also, it’s missing some pages from the
> > index. But the binding is pretty intact, and so are the color plates,
> which apparently were adapted from Audubon’s
> > illustrations.
> >
> >
> >
> > The book is Report on the Birds of Pennsylvania, by Benjamin Harry
> Warren. It’s an official Pennsylvania state
> > government publication documenting the state of Pennsylvania’s birds at
> the time. Interestingly, on pages 110-111 it
> > talks about the declining numbers of the Passenger Pigeon throughout the
> state; this was about 20 years before the bird
> > was declared extinct.
> >
> >
> >
> > The book belonged to my late uncle, and I don’t remember when he gave it
> to me, but it’s been kicking around my house
> > for a while and I finally looked it up to see what it is. I’m happy to
> give it to whoever would appreciate having it.
> >
> >
> >
> > Tina Hay
> >
> > State College
> >
> >
> >
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers: Craig Kochel
Visitors: 19 leaf peepers. Mr. Hess stopped and asked about the telephone poles and tower location, not realizing the new tower was already installed.
Weather: Thin high clouds, 9-16�c, medium winds all morning, decreased for the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: The breezy South wind all morning should have equated to more birds but they had other ideas. Then it slowed for the afternoon and some birds showed up - confusing to say the least! Highlight was an eye level adult Red-shouldered showing off it checkerboard wings. Later, an immature Bald circled close a few times just off the ridge. Craig got some good shots of its top and bottom. Top side looked very lightly colored, almost tan in patches.
Non-raptor Observations: Raven, starlings, Blue Jays, a.crow, chickadees, juncos, goldfinch, golden crowned kinglets, robins, pine siskins, red-bellied wp, pileated, cedar ww, c.wren. Some TVs, BVs, Redtails not counted.
Predictions: Similar southerly winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 11/2/26 12:25 pm From: Jonathan Siegle <jsiegle...> Subject: Re: Would anyone like this book?
Tina, I do volunteer work with DCNR. I would be happy to take it off your hands and find a suitable home for it if there are no other takers.
-Jonathan Siegle
On 2026-11-02 at 19:18, Hay, Tina wrote:
> > I have a copy of a thick book on the birds of Pennsylvania that dates to 1890 — but before you get TOO excited, it’s > not exactly in pristine condition. It looks like it was exposed to moisture or even water; the overall book is a little > warped and some of the pages have what look like water stains along the edges. Also, it’s missing some pages from the > index. But the binding is pretty intact, and so are the color plates, which apparently were adapted from Audubon’s > illustrations. > > > > The book is Report on the Birds of Pennsylvania, by Benjamin Harry Warren. It’s an official Pennsylvania state > government publication documenting the state of Pennsylvania’s birds at the time. Interestingly, on pages 110-111 it > talks about the declining numbers of the Passenger Pigeon throughout the state; this was about 20 years before the bird > was declared extinct. > > > > The book belonged to my late uncle, and I don’t remember when he gave it to me, but it’s been kicking around my house > for a while and I finally looked it up to see what it is. I’m happy to give it to whoever would appreciate having it. > > > > Tina Hay > > State College > > >
Date: 11/2/26 11:18 am From: Hay, Tina <tmh1...> Subject: Would anyone like this book?
I have a copy of a thick book on the birds of Pennsylvania that dates to 1890 — but before you get TOO excited, it’s not exactly in pristine condition. It looks like it was exposed to moisture or even water; the overall book is a little warped and some of the pages have what look like water stains along the edges. Also, it’s missing some pages from the index. But the binding is pretty intact, and so are the color plates, which apparently were adapted from Audubon’s illustrations.
The book is Report on the Birds of Pennsylvania, by Benjamin Harry Warren. It’s an official Pennsylvania state government publication documenting the state of Pennsylvania’s birds at the time. Interestingly, on pages 110-111 it talks about the declining numbers of the Passenger Pigeon throughout the state; this was about 20 years before the bird was declared extinct.
The book belonged to my late uncle, and I don’t remember when he gave it to me, but it’s been kicking around my house for a while and I finally looked it up to see what it is. I’m happy to give it to whoever would appreciate having it.
Date: 11/2/26 4:07 am From: Constanza Ehrenhaus <cxe1169...> Subject: Fwd: Fwd: letter to request votes
Hi all,
I am sharing this from Merrill David. Maybe we all can help!
Hi, all -
I'm forwarding this to ask that if you have a moment please click on the
radio station link and help Doug Mason get a new roof. Many of you have met
Doug -- the sweetest kindest man, who volunteers a great deal of his time
and efforts with the Sierra Club, the PA Native Plant Society, and the SC
Bird Club despite great physical and personal hardships. This radio contest
is awarding the winner with a new roof, and Doug has fallen on hard times,
both physically and economically, his house is in disrepair, his roof is
leaking, and he has lost his sources of income.
You can click on the "vote" link once a day. His is the top center photo in
B&W.
Best,
Merrill
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Manxy Me <manxyme...>
Date: Fri, Oct 30, 2026 at 9:50 AM
Subject: Re: Fwd: letter to request votes
To: Daniel Alters <danalters...>
Cc: Merrill David <mer22david...>, Douglas Mason <ramakong1...>,
Sarah Chamberlain <sjchamberlain8...>, Pugh, Cathryn <
<cathrynpugh...>, Stahlman, Cindy <cstahlman...>, Danielle
Lanagan <Dlanagan720...>, Kristen Devlin <BeeBopFarm...>,
Karen Keifer-Boyd <ktk2...>, Kathy Bechdel <kmbechdel...>,
Kevin Abbey <kabbey12...>, Kristy Gallo <gallomadre...>,
Marisa Eichman <meich9...>, Elaine Meder-Wilgus <
<webstersbookstorecafe...>, Diane Albright <beagle4483...>,
Wentzel, Doug <djw105...>, Kevin Abbott <kevingabbott...>
I hope this helps. Remember to vote daily to support Douglas, and have a
great day!
Karen
On Fri, Oct 30, 2026, 9:30 AM Daniel Alters <danalters...> wrote:
> Below is a link to the voting page. But, which one is Doug? Dan
>
> https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thebusrocks.com%2Fnews%2F2026%2F10%2F28%2Fcontests%2Froof-a-vet%2F3805873&data=05%7C02%<7CSCBIRDCL...>%7C32886ad062184132004b08df38d9c731%7C7cf48d453ddb4389a9c1c115526eb52e%7C0%7C0%7C639292180171993175%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=N9FFUTHiOYHWm2bSS0ix3IEwP3%2FKG9RqArgiZtAty68%3D&reserved=0 >
> On Wed, Oct 28, 2026 at 12:34 AM Manxy Me <manxyme...> wrote:
>
>> Sorry, nothing to share at 12.30 am on the "Contests" heading and no
>> "Roof A Vett" icon or badge on the app so far.
>>
>>
>> - Voting runs from Wednesday, October 28, 2026 (12:01 AM) through
>> Tuesday, November 10, 2026 (12:00 PM).
>> - Tell your family and friends to vote daily (1 vote per email every
>> 24 hours) at THEBUSROCKS.COM <https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebusrocks.com%2F&data=05%7C02%<7CSCBIRDCL...>%7C32886ad062184132004b08df38d9c731%7C7cf48d453ddb4389a9c1c115526eb52e%7C0%7C0%7C639292180172012968%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=HCqCqh%2BpBfwkiEXUzzZZDT11y75soS7VYfKZN9Cj4Jw%3D&reserved=0> or on The Bus
>> Rocks app by clicking the “Roof A Vet” badge.
>>
>> I saw no voting page except under the "Contests" heading.
>>
>> Karen
>>
>> On Tue, Oct 27, 2026, 7:16 PM Merrill David <mer22david...> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi!
>>> Sorry, but I don't see the link or page at the BUS.com either. Does
>>> anyone have a direct link to the voting page?
>>>
>>> Merrill
>>>
>>>
>>> On Tue, Oct 27, 2026 at 2:46 PM Manxy Me <manxyme...> wrote:
>>>
>>>> I'm going to assume the place to vote will be added later or after
>>>> midnight under this tab circled.
>>>>
>>>> Scroll down yo the "Contests" header and there it should be when its up
>>>> to he voted on.
>>>>
>>>> Best wishes Doug, you're very deserving of this!
>>>>
>>>> Karen
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> On Tue, Oct 27, 2026, 2:09 PM Douglas Mason <ramakong1...>
>>>> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
>>>>> From: Douglas Mason <ramakong1...>
>>>>> Date: Tue, Oct 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM
>>>>> Subject: Fwd: Fwd: letter to request votes
>>>>> To: Douglas Mason <ramakong1...>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
>>>>> From: Joan Bouchard <bouchardjm...>
>>>>> Date: Mon, Oct 26, 2026 at 6:38 PM
>>>>> Subject: Re: Fwd: letter to request votes
>>>>> To: Douglas Mason <ramakong1...>, Elyse Johnson <
>>>>> <americorps.scwc...>, Kelly Forest <kelly68forest...>,
>>>>> ernest boyd <ernestcboyd...>, Ellen Foreman <
>>>>> <esforeman...>, David Roberts <puzzlewuzzle.dr...>,
>>>>> Nancy F Parks <nancyfparks...>, Bill & Judy Tanner <
>>>>> <billtann...>, Deborah <d5me16...>, Ron Johnson <
>>>>> <rwjohnson1...>, Steven Lachman <stevelachman...>, L
>>>>> Barr <lauriebarr59...>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Hi, Vicki - I can't find the "roof a vet" badge by using either of
>>>>> those Methods. Do I have to sign in first, And do I have to create an
>>>>> account? I don't want to do that!
>>>>>
>>>>> I'm glad I looked now because the 28th is the day after tomorrow, and
>>>>> I can't find out how to do it. Can anybody on this thread help?? Joan
>>>>> Bouchard
>>>>>
>>>>> *Hope, real hope, comes from doing the things before us that need to
>>>>> be done in the spirit of thankfulness and celebration, without worrying
>>>>> about whether we will win or lose.*
>>>>> *- David W. Orr, "Earth in Mind" READ THIS! :*[image: Emoji]
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> On Sunday, October 25, 2026 at 05:32:05 PM EDT, Joan Bouchard <
>>>>> <bouchardjm...> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> You can count on me. To do this every day, Doug and Vicki! And
>>>>> hopefully, every single person on this thread will do the same!! Joan
>>>>>
>>>>> *Hope, real hope, comes from doing the things before us that need to
>>>>> be done in the spirit of thankfulness and celebration, without worrying
>>>>> about whether we will win or lose.*
>>>>> *- David W. Orr, "Earth in Mind" READ THIS! :*[image: Emoji]
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> On Sunday, October 25, 2026 at 03:37:15 PM EDT, Douglas Mason <
>>>>> <ramakong1...> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
>>>>> From: *Douglas Mason* <ramakong1...>
>>>>> Date: Sun, Oct 25, 2026 at 3:34 PM
>>>>> Subject: Re: letter to request votes
>>>>> To: Vicki Parks <vickilmps...>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Hi, folks!
>>>>>
>>>>> When Vicki entered me to qualify for a new roof with station 99.5 FM,
>>>>> we didn’t realize it was going to be a popularity contest. So I am writing
>>>>> to you asking you to take a moment every day starting October 28 until
>>>>> Veterans Day to vote for me to get the roof installed. See Vicki’s letter
>>>>> below for more details. Thanks for your help!
>>>>>
>>>>> Doug
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> On Fri, Oct 23, 2026 at 11:26 PM Vicki Parks <vickilmps...>
>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>> I, Vicki Parks nominated Doug Mason, my boyfriend, for a local radio
>>>>> contest in which ONE VETERAN would receive a free roof (by vote). My
>>>>> nomination was accepted and I just found out that voting is by family and
>>>>> friends. So this is basically a popularity contest.
>>>>>
>>>>> I am writing this letter to request your assistance to
>>>>> flood the polls daily (for as many of the 14 voting days as you can)
>>>>> for Doug per the instructions he received:
>>>>>
>>>>> Congratulations on your nomination for a roof replacement from The Bus
>>>>> and Home Genius Exteriors!
>>>>>
>>>>> Here's a few important instructions:
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> - Voting runs from Wednesday, October 28, 2026 (12:01 AM) through
>>>>> Tuesday, November 10, 2026 (12:00 PM).
>>>>> - Tell your family and friends to vote daily (1 vote per email
>>>>> every 24 hours) at THEBUSROCKS.COM <https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebusrocks.com%2F&data=05%7C02%<7CSCBIRDCL...>%7C32886ad062184132004b08df38d9c731%7C7cf48d453ddb4389a9c1c115526eb52e%7C0%7C0%7C639292180172038176%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Z7INPRmyWehUv0TAAi2MMSflMVSihTuJhYLq672h5Eo%3D&reserved=0> or on
>>>>> The Bus Rocks app by clicking the “Roof A Vet” badge.
>>>>> - Send over a photo of yourself in uniform so we can put it on the
>>>>> voting page.
>>>>> - No need to reach out during voting—we’ll call you on Tuesday,
>>>>> November 10, 2026 after 12:00 PM once voting wraps up if you are the winner.
>>>>> - Have your proof of military service (DD-214 or current Military
>>>>> ID) ready in case you win!
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Thank you in advance for assisting Doug. He needs a new
>>>>> roof desperately. I am including a copy of my nomination in this letter so
>>>>> you can see just how deserving Doug is!
>>>>>
>>>>> Sincerely,
>>>>>
>>>>> Vicki Parks
>>>>>
>>>>> *NOMINATION*
>>>>>
>>>>> Douglas M. Mason <ramakong1...>
>>>>>
>>>>> 1084 Ghaner Road
>>>>> <https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2Fmaps%2Fsearch%2F1084%2BGhaner%2BRoad%3Fentry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&data=05%7C02%<7CSCBIRDCL...>%7C32886ad062184132004b08df38d9c731%7C7cf48d453ddb4389a9c1c115526eb52e%7C0%7C0%7C639292180172058628%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=KYHU9VD0%2F%2FPEJpMSN4VQV0SrTJvvAyBF%2Fyt8CFEHR78%3D&reserved=0> >>>>> (814) 753-0598
>>>>>
>>>>> Port Matilda, PA 16870
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Submitted 10/5/26 12:02 AM
>>>>>
>>>>> I would like to nominate Doug Mason, a 76-year-old
>>>>> Vietnam Air Force veteran, #185-38-6356, to receive a free roof. Doug has
>>>>> spent his entire life in service to others. His career in soil management
>>>>> has been directed toward the protection of the environment. His resume
>>>>> includes Water Quality Technician for PA Department of Environmental
>>>>> Resources, Soil Conservationist for U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil
>>>>> Conservation Service, Soil Scientist for PA Department of Environmental
>>>>> Resources, Soil Scientist for the National Center for Appropriate
>>>>> Technology (Memphis, TN), Director of Pollution Prevention for Hoosier
>>>>> Environmental Council, Emergency Responder for Indiana Department of
>>>>> Environmental Resources; (self-employment) Hoosier Soil Services, and Happy
>>>>> Valley Soil Servi*ce*s.
>>>>>
>>>>> In his retirement, Doug has chaired the Sierra Club’s
>>>>> Moshannon Group for eight years. He stepped down as chair this year but
>>>>> remains active on the board as Program Director. Other environmental
>>>>> organizations in which he is an active member include Nittany Valley
>>>>> Environmental Coalition, Centre County Greens, Pennsylvania Native Plant
>>>>> Society, and State College Bird Club. In addition, Patton Township’s Board
>>>>> of Supervisors appointed Doug to represent the township on the Spring Creek
>>>>> Watershed Commission. Doug has written an online article about climate for
>>>>> the Spring Creek Watershed Atlas and is currently penning another piece
>>>>> about reptiles and amphibians for the Atlas.
>>>>>
>>>>> Doug, his wife, and disabled stepson lived together and
>>>>> shared expenses until two years ago when his wife passed away. This past
>>>>> March, his stepson also passed away. Without their combined income, Doug’s
>>>>> house has fallen into disrepair, even though he works 16 hours a week as a
>>>>> security guard and takes on all the substitute shifts he can get. I have
>>>>> been assisting Doug as best I can, given that I have Parkinson's, to get
>>>>> his house ready to take on a roommate or two to share expenses which would
>>>>> allow him to keep his home and his beloved pets as well as to make numerous
>>>>> necessary repairs.
>>>>>
>>>>> Earlier this month, Doug was hospitalized for three days
>>>>> and consequently lost a week of income. Since then, despite his mobility
>>>>> issues, he continues to work as many hours as he can. I have been driving
>>>>> him to his various doctor's appointments between shifts.
>>>>>
>>>>> I am aware of three places Doug’s roof is leaking, under
>>>>> one of which he has permanently placed a bucket. Water has also damaged the
>>>>> floors in his kitchen and a bedroom causing them to sag. While a new roof
>>>>> cannot solve all the structural, plumbing, and electrical repairs the house
>>>>> requires, nor pay for heating oil this winter, it would certainly make
>>>>> Doug’s limited income go a lot further toward keeping him living
>>>>> independently in his home and making it mold free. Thank you in advance for
>>>>> considering Doug Mason as a deserving veteran for this very generous
>>>>> opportunity to have a new roof.
>>>>>
>>>>> Vicki Parks
>>>>>
>>>>> (203) 803-3339
>>>>>
>>>>>
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Greg Grove
Observers:
Visitors: Mr and Mrs Fred King from Big Valley. He told me about his kestrel boxes and about Barn Owls in the valley.
Many others including a big Bible group from Lancaster
Weather: Light SE 9-13C mostly cloudy
Raptor Observations: NOHA - F/Imm BE - Imm
Non-raptor Observations: Pine siskins ======================================================================== Report submitted by Greg Grove (<gwg2...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Phil Park
Observers:
Visitors: A few leaf peepers. Dennis Hess.
Weather: Mild (for November). High, thin cirrus clouds, light southerly breeze diminishing over the day.
Raptor Observations: Only four birds, but three were adult GOEA.
Non-raptor Observations: Almost no passerine activity. Local TVs, BVs and ravens made occasional appearances. Nemo arrived late.
Predictions: More of the same, weatherwise. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Greg Grove
Observers:
Visitors: 20+
Ray McCloskey - in support of repair of Martin's Gap Road which is main access for the Rocky Ridge section of the Standing Stone Trail. To lend support - email Forester Mar Potter mpotter @ pa.gov
For now the road is stated as "permanently" closed.
Weather: very light NW, calm at times. 4-11 C . 30% cloud cover
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations: Pine Siskins ======================================================================== Report submitted by Greg Grove (<gwg2...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Darrell Smith
Observers:
Visitors: Steve from Erie stopped and chatted with me. He was interested in knowing about Big Valley and Ferguson Valley.
Weather: Partly cloudy with a good wind from the WNW most of the day.
Raptor Observations: Adult GE at 2:07. Local TV's, BV's and Red-Tails. Good strong wind but few birds.
Non-raptor Observations: Several Ravens including Nemo. A murder of crows, Bluejays, several flocks of starlings.
Predictions: N, NNW west winds predicted. Not good for Jacks! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 10/30/26 4:09 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (30 Oct 2026) 67 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 30, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Raptor Observations: GE(9): 715 Ad, 824 Ad, 924 Unk, 1039 Unk, 1052 Ad, 1136 Ad, 1346 Ad, 1437 Ad, 1515 Ad. Many of the GEs were high, from a combination of strong updrafts and strong thermals. The 22 GEs for October is the 2nd highest total for this month in 7 years.
BE(13): 4 Ad, 8 Imm, 1 Unk
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: The next watch day will be the next day with W/NW wind and no rain, possibly Sat, Nov 7. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Alexa Sarussi
Observers: Brady Thomas, Ken Bowman
Visitors: One couple from State College with parents visiting from Kansas. Shaver's Creek intern, Kayley, joined for the last hour.
Weather: Sunny, consistent winds from NW, spare clouds that cleared throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: One resident immature bald eagle was seen carrying a stick.
Non-raptor Observations: Two distant separate groups of waterfowl flew over early in the day. No ID. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Anderson (<jab56...>)
Date: 10/30/26 9:09 am From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: Bald Eagle SP Christmas Count date
Hello All,
The Audubon Christmas Count date will be Sunday, Dec. 27, 2026.
I haven't entered the date yet on the Audubon CBC site, but will do so this weekend.
Note that I will send out a more formal notice sometime in mid-November, but for regular count participants, you may reply to this email to let me know if you will be participating this year and doing your regular area.
Thanks for your time,
Bob Snyder Compiler for the Bald Eagle SP count circle.
This will be my 22nd year as compiler! (Started in 2004)
Time does fly!
Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have. Theodore Roosevelt
Predictions: Medium to strong winds out of the Northwest should make for a great flight day. Golden Eagles guaranteed! If none show up blame the hawk watchers there (Not me!!) ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors: The Kolb's from Pottstown came to visit in the area for several days before attending the Penn State game this weekend. One young mother stopped up with her infant and picked up some Visitor Center handouts. Like Jen, I kept count of the number of people who stopped at the overlook (42 in total), including a group of 5 older-order Amish (with an English driver). While looking out over Ferguson Valley, a Golden Eagle soared right above them and they had no idea.
Weather: Once the fog lifted it remained a hazy day despite the full sun and brilliant blue skies. Strong winds out of the SE/ SSE which became much lighter in the pm.
Raptor Observations: All migrating birds were on the south side of the mountain and were either just off the mountain top or out over the valley but were all seen with the naked eye. Two Golden Eagles, both adults flew by at 12:06 and 3:15. Largest flight of the day was migrating Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations: The Starling mob returned to hang out on the tower along with Turkey Vultures, one Black Vulture and of course, Nemo. Five water fowl were seen heading for the river, Juncos, Blue Jays and our local Red-tails were also observed today.
Predictions: Warm and bright. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
yes, a Tennessee warbler, which is common here in Sep and early Oct
they are what is called a spruce budworm warbler, because their numbers
expand during spruce budworm infestations and an ongoing infestation has
been occurring since 2013 in eastern Quebec
Nick Bolgiano
On Thu, Oct 29, 2026 at 4:21 PM Comcast <
<0000ffc77f25ddf3-dmarc-request...> wrote:
Date: 10/29/26 11:24 am From: Ilene White <0000d79c4117508d-dmarc-request...> Subject: Common milkweed seed pods
Good afternoon, Would anyone like some common milkweed seed pods that have popped open and are filled with seeds. I have about 10 of them to pass along to anyone in the club or perhaps to the PA Native Plant Society. Thanks, Ilene White
Date: 10/28/26 7:09 pm From: Ragan, Lawrence Christopher <lcr1...> Subject: Detective Question Eagle or Vulture
A friend of mine installs weather monitoring cameras through his company WeatherStem. One of his locations recorded this image and has a question regarding the bird. I have no clue but Ill bet someone in this group can make the call.
Thanks in advance, Larry
Date: 10/28/26 2:24 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: Re: an interesting looking juvenile Golden Eagle
Golden and Bald eagles are about the same size. Golden Eagles have smaller
heads and longer tails. In a Bald Eagle, the head and tail are almost the
same length. Shape is the best way to distinguish the two at a distance.
A juvenile Golden Eagle has bright white at the base of the tail and
usually in wing patches. In this picture, you can also see the gold
feathers on the back of the neck and top of the head. A juvenile Bald Eagle
has white in the wingpits. A second or third year Bald usually has white on
the body, where a Golden doesn't have white.
On Wed, Oct 28, 2026 at 11:27 AM Lynn Sprott <
<0000cb09de78248d-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> I love this picture, Nick! As someone who is still a very inexpert birder,
> I would love it if someone could explain how you can tell a juvenile golden
> from a juvenile bald eagle? I'm pretty sure if I had seen this I would have
> just assumed it was a juvenile bald eagle. I really wish I had seen it--I
> was at Bald Eagle Monday but didn't see any eagles or the American bittern,
> sadly.
>
> Lynn Sprott
> Professor of Psychology
> Jefferson Community College
> Watertown, NY
> <lsprott...>
> ------------------------------
> *From:* State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf
> of Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...>
> *Sent:* Tuesday, October 27, 2026 9:16 PM
> *To:* <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
> *Subject:* an interesting looking juvenile Golden Eagle
>
> ⚠* External Warning:* Treat Links & Attachments with caution
> I took this picture on Monday at Bald Eagle Mt of a Golden Eagle that I
> judged to be a juvenile. I find the pattern of white to be interesting in
> that a few adjacent feathers had white, the white did not appear to be
> symmetric in the two wings, and there were small body feathers that were
> white.
>
> Typically, the white in the wings are in a number of adjacent feathers and
> symmetric in the two wings.
>
> Nick Bolgiano
>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Diane Stewart
Observers: Craig Kochel, Joe McDonald, Mary Ann McDonald
Visitors: Lonchers from Sinking Valley. Kathy Boyer along with Joe and Mary Ann McDonald helped with the watch today.
Weather: Cool with fair winds out of the SE, S, SW most of the day. Heavy haze all day making it difficult to see any birds at a distance.
Raptor Observations: All raptors were to the S side of the lookout.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue jays, crows, ravens, juncos, cedar waxwings, carolina wrens, large group of starlings hanging out on the towers today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Predictions: Similar conditions to today, although a bit warmer it looks like. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Date: 10/28/26 8:27 am From: Lynn Sprott <0000cb09de78248d-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: an interesting looking juvenile Golden Eagle
I love this picture, Nick! As someone who is still a very inexpert birder, I would love it if someone could explain how you can tell a juvenile golden from a juvenile bald eagle? I'm pretty sure if I had seen this I would have just assumed it was a juvenile bald eagle. I really wish I had seen it--I was at Bald Eagle Monday but didn't see any eagles or the American bittern, sadly.
Lynn Sprott
Professor of Psychology
Jefferson Community College
Watertown, NY
<lsprott...><mailto:<lsprott...> ________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...>
Sent: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 9:16 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: an interesting looking juvenile Golden Eagle
⚠ External Warning: Treat Links & Attachments with caution
I took this picture on Monday at Bald Eagle Mt of a Golden Eagle that I judged to be a juvenile. I find the pattern of white to be interesting in that a few adjacent feathers had white, the white did not appear to be symmetric in the two wings, and there were small body feathers that were white.
Typically, the white in the wings are in a number of adjacent feathers and symmetric in the two wings.
Date: 10/27/26 6:16 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: an interesting looking juvenile Golden Eagle
I took this picture on Monday at Bald Eagle Mt of a Golden Eagle that I judged to be a juvenile. I find the pattern of white to be interesting in that a few adjacent feathers had white, the white did not appear to be symmetric in the two wings, and there were small body feathers that were white.
Typically, the white in the wings are in a number of adjacent feathers and symmetric in the two wings.
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Connor Schmitt
Observers:
Visitors: 3 hikers
Weather: Clear skies and mid 60s. Little to no wind and a consistent slight haze in the valleys.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: 2 probable 3rd year sub-adults at 1:22. Low flying juvenile at 2:11. See photos in attached checklist. 7 Black Vultures who couldn't make up there mind on which way to go and weren't counted. Adult and juvenile Bald eagles going the wrong way.
Predictions: Slightly stronger winds out of the SE, so may be slow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers:
Visitors: Todd Tagliabosia, Jeff Hoover penndot driver getting his plowed installed today
Weather: Sunny skies with SSE winds to start, around 10:00 wind greatly decreased. Very light winds from NW. sky slowly started to get very high wispy clouds. By the end of day becoming party cloudy
Raptor Observations: Very slow day as been the trend lately. Some Turkey Vultures early in the day with a few singles late. One very immature bald eagle, a few Redtails, and one very high kestrel seen late against a cloud. If that high earlier I wouldn�t have seen it.
Non-raptor Observations: Many leaf peepers sometimes the parking lot was full. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Non-raptor Observations: Pine Siskin (detected by Merlin, not me) Hermit Thrush ======================================================================== Report submitted by Greg Grove (<gwg2...>)
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers:
Visitors: What to do on a slow day? Count other things! Leaf Peepers: 30. Trains Heard: 3
Weather: Clear, mild, very light west wind. Prediction was increasing winds throughout the day; it did not.
Raptor Observations: First bird (9:21am) adult male N.Harrier with a Sharpy trailing. Not much moving, not enough wind.
Non-raptor Observations: Juncos, bluebirds. Pileated, downy, goldfinch, blue jays. C.wren, starlings, pine siskins, wb.nuthatch, cardinal, robins, cedar ww, a.crow, mockingbird, raven, Chickadees, flicker. Non-migrating TVs, BVs, Redtails.
Predictions: Tuesday similar to today. Weds could be better, if it doesn't rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Predictions: Sunny and warm with winds from the West 5-10. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 10/25/26 2:25 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: Fwd: Stone Mt. (25 Oct 2026) 67 Raptors
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <reports...>
Date: Sun, Oct 25, 2026 at 5:19 PM
Subject: Stone Mt. (25 Oct 2026) 67 Raptors
To: <nickbolgiano...>
*Stone Mt.*
Allensville, Pennsylvania, USA
*Daily Raptor Counts: *Oct 25, 2026
*Species* Day's Count Month Total Season Total
BV 0 19 19
TV 64 317 317
OS 0 7 48
BE 0 80 151
NH 0 17 25
SS 0 306 415
CH 0 36 54
AG 0 0 0
RS 0 7 9
BW 0 6 3461
RT 3 89 111
RL 0 0 0
GE 0 7 7
AK 0 29 47
ML 0 16 19
PG 0 9 14
UA 0 4 8
UB 0 3 11
UF 0 2 4
UE 0 1 1
UR 0 1 8
*Total:* 67 956 4729
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter Nick Bolgiano
Observers:
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Darrell Smith, Diane Stewart
Observers: Darrell Smith
Visitors: Lots of leaf peepers today. Jim from Lancaster who has a camp in New Lancaster Valley. A group of Mennonite from Oklahoma who are on a 10 day vacation including Niagra Falls, Allensville, and Lancaster. The father of the group loved the hills and mountains in Pennsylvania. A nice group of Amish from Oklahoma visiting Big Valley to celebrate the life of there mother who passed this week.
Weather: Cool with bright sun making it feel warmer than the actual air temperature. Light winds out of the ESE to begin and eventually ending with S winds.
Raptor Observations: First red tail observed at 9:49. Prior to that no large birds other than one TV heading north!
Non-raptor Observations: Very little flight of local birds but did see many blue jays, along with a few juncos, white-breasted nuthatch, waxwings, pileated wp, and Nemo.
Predictions: Probably the same but sooner or later the birds need to move. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Joshua Potter
Observers: Ken Bowman
Visitors: --Sarah Carney (Avian outreach intern) --Karen Moser, two friends, and Olaf the dog --Sarah Potter --Brittany Stroope and Chris Swanson (recently moved to Allensville from New Mexico)
Weather: Light East winds, blue skies, and sun throughout.
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Darrell Smith
Observers:
Visitors: Robert Altamura and a group of Professors from Penn State University on a field trip, Gary from Bellefonte, A group from Boyertown. Phil Park. Many leaf peppers.
Weather: Cool and clear to start with light winds from the NNW, then N, then V turning to SE at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: 2 Adult BE's at 1:18. Several local TV's and BV's not migrating. 2 Redtails not migrating. One was interacting with a raven.
Non-raptor Observations: Red Headed WP, Robin, Bluejays, Several Ravens including Nemo, a murder of crows. Several small birds flew by not identified.
Predictions: Looks like some of the same. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 10/23/26 7:26 am From: Kathy Bechdel <0000d165c6a818d5-dmarc-request...> Subject: Field trip Saturday!
Bee Wilder Farm, 143 Charming Ln, Spring Mills, PA 16875 Saturday, October 24, 9:00 am - 10:30 am Trip Leader: Joe Gyekis Bee Wilder Farm is part homestead, part farm sanctuary, and part wildlife reserve, where we will have a gentle walk around the property among the plantings of native trees and flowers, looking for birds of old field and forest edge habitat and, if weather is appropriate, active migrants in the sky. https://beewilder.farm/ Outhouse style restroom is available. Drive east on Route 45 from Boalsburg about 9.5 miles to Decker Road, turn left and continue north for just over a mile, then turn right on Manor Rd and continue east for another mile before turning right on Bitner Hollow Road. After half a mile, Charming Lane will be on the right, proceed to the end of the lane. Also see Google Maps directions
Date: 10/23/26 5:47 am From: Blizard, David A <dab22...> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (22 Oct 2026) 8 Raptors
Thank you, Joe! Could you make a distinction with regard to the habitats preferred by other BOPS?
Sent from my iPad
On Oct 22, 2026, at 8:50 PM, Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> wrote:
they are long distance migrants, so they can breed in habitat that is not suitable in winter, huge amounts of forests that are not ideal for any other raptor have broad winged hawks nesting in them across Pennsylvania and other points north including a good bit of Canada, then they all have to leave and go to the tropics for the winter
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Blizard, David A <dab22...>
Sent: Thursday, 22 October 2026 19:53:52
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (22 Oct 2026) 8 Raptors
I may have asked this before: why is there such a super-majority of Broad-winged hawks?
Sent from my iPad
On Oct 22, 2026, at 7:28 PM, Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> wrote:
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 15:30:00
Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors:
Many leaf peepers. I chatted with Todd who stops by whenever work takes him over Jacks and he specifically asked about Nemo. The Nell's from Lancaster and the Harting's and finally the Vrana's from Clearfield County all visited the watch. Then at 2:45 folks started showing up for a wedding at the altar that was taking place at 3:30, so that was my sign to pack it up and go home.
Weather:
Bright, cloudless sky with winds out of the NW and mainly light breezes.
Raptor Observations:
Local Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawks not counted. First local Turkey Vulture of the day was at 11:28.
Non-raptor Observations:
Nemo and friend, the standard murder of Crows (24), Cedar-waxwings, Blue Jays, and with 3rd frost almost zero stink bugs and lantern flies. (Finally!)
Date: 10/23/26 5:47 am From: Patricia Rossi <0000ff57fea60c5a-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (22 Oct 2026) 8 Raptors
Hi, Also, Broad-winged Hawks rely on thermals for migration, which are strong and reliable in mid-September. Pat Rossi
On Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 08:50:24 PM EDT, Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> wrote:
they are long distance migrants, so they can breed in habitat that is not suitable in winter, huge amounts of forests that are not ideal for any other raptor have broad winged hawks nesting in them across Pennsylvania and other points north including a good bit of Canada, then they all have to leave and go to the tropics for the winter
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Blizard, David A <dab22...>
Sent: Thursday, 22 October 2026 19:53:52
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (22 Oct 2026) 8 Raptors I may have asked this before: why is there such a super-majority of Broad-winged hawks?
Sent from my iPad
On Oct 22, 2026, at 7:28 PM, Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> wrote:
Visitors:
Many leaf peepers. I chatted with Todd who stops by whenever work takes him over Jacks and he specifically asked about Nemo. The Nell's from Lancaster and the Harting's and finally the Vrana's from Clearfield County all visited the watch. Then at 2:45 folks started showing up for a wedding at the altar that was taking place at 3:30, so that was my sign to pack it up and go home.
Weather:
Bright, cloudless sky with winds out of the NW and mainly light breezes.
Raptor Observations:
Local Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawks not counted. First local Turkey Vulture of the day was at 11:28.
Non-raptor Observations:
Nemo and friend, the standard murder of Crows (24), Cedar-waxwings, Blue Jays, and with 3rd frost almost zero stink bugs and lantern flies. (Finally!)
Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
More information at hawkcount.org: [Site Profile] [Day Summary] [Month Summary]
Date: 10/22/26 5:50 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (22 Oct 2026) 8 Raptors
they are long distance migrants, so they can breed in habitat that is not suitable in winter, huge amounts of forests that are not ideal for any other raptor have broad winged hawks nesting in them across Pennsylvania and other points north including a good bit of Canada, then they all have to leave and go to the tropics for the winter
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Blizard, David A <dab22...>
Sent: Thursday, 22 October 2026 19:53:52
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (22 Oct 2026) 8 Raptors
I may have asked this before: why is there such a super-majority of Broad-winged hawks?
Sent from my iPad
On Oct 22, 2026, at 7:28 PM, Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> wrote:
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 15:30:00
Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors:
Many leaf peepers. I chatted with Todd who stops by whenever work takes him over Jacks and he specifically asked about Nemo. The Nell's from Lancaster and the Harting's and finally the Vrana's from Clearfield County all visited the watch. Then at 2:45 folks started showing up for a wedding at the altar that was taking place at 3:30, so that was my sign to pack it up and go home.
Weather:
Bright, cloudless sky with winds out of the NW and mainly light breezes.
Raptor Observations:
Local Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawks not counted. First local Turkey Vulture of the day was at 11:28.
Non-raptor Observations:
Nemo and friend, the standard murder of Crows (24), Cedar-waxwings, Blue Jays, and with 3rd frost almost zero stink bugs and lantern flies. (Finally!)
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 15:30:00
Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors:
Many leaf peepers. I chatted with Todd who stops by whenever work takes him over Jacks and he specifically asked about Nemo. The Nell's from Lancaster and the Harting's and finally the Vrana's from Clearfield County all visited the watch. Then at 2:45 folks started showing up for a wedding at the altar that was taking place at 3:30, so that was my sign to pack it up and go home.
Weather:
Bright, cloudless sky with winds out of the NW and mainly light breezes.
Raptor Observations:
Local Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawks not counted. First local Turkey Vulture of the day was at 11:28.
Non-raptor Observations:
Nemo and friend, the standard murder of Crows (24), Cedar-waxwings, Blue Jays, and with 3rd frost almost zero stink bugs and lantern flies. (Finally!)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors: Many leaf peepers. I chatted with Todd who stops by whenever work takes him over Jacks and he specifically asked about Nemo. The Nell's from Lancaster and the Harting's and finally the Vrana's from Clearfield County all visited the watch. Then at 2:45 folks started showing up for a wedding at the altar that was taking place at 3:30, so that was my sign to pack it up and go home.
Weather: Bright, cloudless sky with winds out of the NW and mainly light breezes.
Raptor Observations: Local Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawks not counted. First local Turkey Vulture of the day was at 11:28.
Non-raptor Observations: Nemo and friend, the standard murder of Crows (24), Cedar-waxwings, Blue Jays, and with 3rd frost almost zero stink bugs and lantern flies. (Finally!) ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 10/22/26 2:48 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (22 Oct 2026) 66 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 22, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Don Pote, Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Craig Kochel, Don Pote, Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano
Weather: Wind NNW 2-9 mph, sky clear, temp 48-62F. The wind picked up to 8-9 mph at about 1240, but this was 2.5 hr later than forecast. About 2.25 good hours of wind.
Raptor Observations: GE: 1334 Ad,Sub, 1429 Sub, all flew overhead along Bald Eagle Mt BE: 2 Ad, 3 Imm
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: It isn't clear when the next watch day will be, possibly Monday, 10/26, or Friday, 10/30, but these are only moderate forecasts. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
The Hermann lab researches insect-plants interactions and work closely with our community leading to some very interesting discoveries, like the fact that milkweed is toxic to spotted lanternflies.
Take a few minutes and help the Hermann lab understand how we view our gardens.
[image: image.png]
From Sara Hermann:
My lab at PSU just released a new survey ( https://pennstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_esVX3b6yU4mMkF8 ) to better understand gardening decision-making, especially regarding gardening for conservation. Through this, we are hoping to provide recommendations that are rooted in the desires of the people while considering any relevant barriers. Please take the survey to help us out with this work! See more below! -------------- At Penn State, we study how gardens support biodiversity conservation, particularly for monarch butterflies and other pollinators. And we want to hear from you! Take our short online survey to participate in our research! Follow the QR code or this link to learn more and take the survey: https://pennstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_esVX3b6yU4mMkF8
Predictions: slight N-NW winds after some bad flight days may make for a decent flight day. I ain't no Quasimodo though. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Date: 10/21/26 4:56 pm From: Brady Thomas <brady.s.thomas98...> Subject: October 28th, 7pm: Adan Kooken presents “Bird Research in the Alaskan National Park System”
Good evening, Bird Club!
Please join us next week on *Wednesday, October 28th at 7pm* for our
October Bird Club meeting at *Millbrook Marsh*!
At this meeting, Adan Kooken will be joining us via zoom to share his
presentation titled, “Bird Research in the Alaskan National Park System.”
Adan Kooken is a Penn State graduate and Shavers Creek alum. Over the
summer, he got the chance to work with the National Park Service in Alaska
and contribute to multiple different research projects related to birds. In
his presentation, he will be sharing information on some of those projects
he encountered and worked on as well as the process that goes into them and
what they are hoping to teach us about birds.
Date: 10/21/26 1:02 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Jacks Mountain (21 Oct 2026) 5 Raptors
for those who didn't read to the end, I'll call special attention to this important note:
"The bird rises against a strong head wind, not only in spite of the wind but because of it. The opposing force becomes a lifting force, if faced at the right angle."
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Hawkcount.org reports <reports...>
Sent: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 15:04:11
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Jacks Mountain (21 Oct 2026) 5 Raptors
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 14:00:00
Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter Jen Lee
Observers:
Visitors:
Steady stream of leaf peepers. The Hamilton's - retired from Shavers Creek and Parks & Rec. They knew my sister as an undergrad. We always have a nice chat.
Weather:
Crisp clear cool fall day. Light wind NW.
Raptor Observations:
1st bird (9:35) immature Redtail lifted close out of the woods, thermaled over the parking lot, then off down the ridge. Beautiful male N.Harrier (12:25) thermaled at parking too. Great looks.
Non-raptor Observations:
Nice quiet day on the Mt. Lack of Raptors makes for other observations: 3 late Monarchs, 3 Lanternfly, 1 Praying Mantis flyby. Chickadees, WB Nuthatch, Bluejays (buzzed by one), Robins, Downy, Hairy, Pileated, Bluebirds, a blizzard of Juncos (my first of the fall), YRumped, Goldfinches, Cedar WW, 2 Hermit Thrush appeared briefly in the brushy slope, Raven (Nemo). Raptors not counted 6 TV + 3 BV (tower gang), 1 Sharpy, 1 Redtail.
Predictions:
The bird rises against a strong head wind, not only in spite of the wind but because of it. The opposing force becomes a lifting force, if faced at the right angle.
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Jen Lee
Observers:
Visitors: Steady stream of leaf peepers. The Hamilton's - retired from Shavers Creek and Parks & Rec. They knew my sister as an undergrad. We always have a nice chat.
Weather: Crisp clear cool fall day. Light wind NW.
Raptor Observations: 1st bird (9:35) immature Redtail lifted close out of the woods, thermaled over the parking lot, then off down the ridge. Beautiful male N.Harrier (12:25) thermaled at parking too. Great looks.
Non-raptor Observations: Nice quiet day on the Mt. Lack of Raptors makes for other observations: 3 late Monarchs, 3 Lanternfly, 1 Praying Mantis flyby. Chickadees, WB Nuthatch, Bluejays (buzzed by one), Robins, Downy, Hairy, Pileated, Bluebirds, a blizzard of Juncos (my first of the fall), YRumped, Goldfinches, Cedar WW, 2 Hermit Thrush appeared briefly in the brushy slope, Raven (Nemo). Raptors not counted 6 TV + 3 BV (tower gang), 1 Sharpy, 1 Redtail.
Predictions: The bird rises against a strong head wind, not only in spite of the wind but because of it. The opposing force becomes a lifting force, if faced at the right angle. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 10/20/26 3:12 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: Re: Jim Dunn
Here are a few good memories of Jim Dunn.
I really enjoy seeing someone start birding later in life and just go to
it. I describe it as "diving into the deep end from 50 feet up". One of my
core beliefs is that we search throughout our days for divinity and to see
someone find it unexpectedly is very gratifying. Us birders know what I am
talking about, even if you don't use that language.
Before eBird, both Jim and I kept good records of our birding observations
and when eBird started, we both entered our past observations. Much of my
birding concentrated on specific locations and the information that I
learned eventually ended up in Birds of Central Pennsylvania. Jim was a
more eclectic birder, visiting many more places and being an all-round
birder. In those early years before eBird debuted, but you can see in the
historic eBird records, Jim would consistently have the highest species
number in historic eBird records for Centre County and I would be second.
That is as close as I ever came to being an eBird leader.
Jim was very outgoing and would talk to anyone. During PA's second breeding
bird atlas, 2004-2009, Jim was very proud that he completed 20 atlas
blocks, many of them in farmland of Big Valley. Of course, from his job as
an ag economist, Jim routinely talked to farmers and so I think that it was
very natural that he did so much in Big Valley. That was a great
contribution.
Being naturally communicative, Jim did a great job as president of the
State College Bird Club. People who volunteer for community service are
very generous.
After Jim retired, he would often visit the Stone Mountain hawk watch,
where I was a counter two days a week. Jim would usually show up mid- or
late morning, eat lunch, and stay for 3-4 hours. He loved communicating and
so there was a lot of talking, more from him than me. I was a more serious
hawk watcher and I would frequently scan the skies with my binoculars. I
think that Jim didn't see as well as I did, so I gave him a job: to watch
near the platform for those raptors that tried to sneak past us and that I
might have missed while looking up. He didn't have to scan, he could relax,
we were both happy with our roles. It was pretty common that he would find
a few birds that I didn't see and I could tell that he liked that aspect.
Nick Bolgiano
On Mon, Oct 19, 2026 at 5:40 PM Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> wrote:
Date: 10/20/26 2:38 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (20 Oct 2026) 71 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 20, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 11:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers:
Weather: There was a mid-morning wind shift to NNE and then the wind speed picked up significantly around 1100, to 6-10 mph. Wind was most sustained during 1100-1300, then dropped off, as did migrants.
Raptor Observations: GE: 1141 Ad, 1251 Imm, both above the ridge to the south. I thought that we might see 1-2 GE on Saturday, Oct 17, but that day's good wind apparently brought some closer.
BE: 3 Imm
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: next watch day: Thursday, with predicted wind NNW 8-9 mph, modest migration expected ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Ken Tucker
Observers:
Visitors: Matt from North Carolina, has cabin on the mountain, saw little today also. Late last week saw 4 Goldens one day. Likely knows the species as he and his wife are both falconers. Many leaf peepers
Weather: Clear blue skies, medium NW to W winds.
Raptor Observations: Only birds counted were 27 vultures as I was getting ready to leave. No local birds
Non-raptor Observations: Few blue jays, one titmouse, one yellow-rumped warbler, few other vultures and raven sightings
Predictions: Can�t be worse ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Merrill David <mer22david...>
Sent: Monday, 19 October 2026 17:11:54
To: <SCBIRDCL...> <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Jim Dunn
Yes, thank you so much for letting us know.
Does anyone happen to have Polly’s mailing address at Foxdale? Unfortunately I won’t be in town for the service.
I had heard he wasn't doing well, but when I first got into birding, he joined me on several things, allowing me to join him on various xmas counts, birding chases, etc.
he always had a story to tell from abroad.
thanks for letting us know
chad.
On 10/19/2026 1:49 PM, Grove, Gregory William wrote:
We learned recently of the passing of Jim Dunn at age 76. Jim was a long-time member of the State College Bird Club, including service as President of the Club. A native of South Dakota, Jim had degrees in Chemistry, Math, and Economics and eventually earned a Ph.D. at Oklahoma State. From Oklahoma he came to Penn State in 1977 as Assistant Professor in Agricultural Economics, retiring as full Professor in 2017.
Jim’s birding career started in 1997 in a way very different than for most of us. During a year-long sabbatical in Australia, he became interested in the birds there and upon his return to State College, was committed all the way to birding. As with many of us, birds became an important component in planning of activities whether in his own backyard, around town and campus, or during world travels related to work. He eventually served four years as President of the State College Bird Club, 2003-2007. His ID skills came quickly and he became a dedicated lister, including Pennsylvania county listing, which he combined with visits connected to Penn State Ag Extension travels through-out the state. His world life-list benefited thanks to his travels and collaborations with faculty from many countries, especially Eastern Europe and republics of the former Soviet Union. In that regard he was proud of his “airport life-list”, which numbered over 100.
Jim’s interests and expertise ranged far beyond birding and economics. For many years he was a regular in lunch-time pick-up basketball on campus, often with fellow birders Scott Lewis and Rob Stone. He was a 50-year member of the Toastmaster’s Club and was on the board of Centre Region Parks and Recreation. He was particularly deeply involved in genealogy, and indeed I learned a lot about his family in South Dakota and Nebraska during slow sessions at the Stone Mt hawk watch.
Jim is survived by wife Polly, son John, and daughter Robin. A celebration of life will be held at Foxdale Village on November 6, 2026, at 12:30 pm.
Date: 10/19/26 2:12 pm From: Merrill David <mer22david...> Subject: Re: Jim Dunn
Yes,* thank you* so much for letting us know.
Does anyone happen to have Polly’s mailing address at Foxdale?
Unfortunately I won’t be in town for the service.
- Merrill
On Mon, Oct 19, 2026 at 2:10 PM Chad Kauffman <chadkauffman...>
wrote:
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Diane Stewart
Observers:
Visitors: Greg Guenther who moved to Lewistown from Minnesota. He loves nature and enjoyed the views from the watch. We discussed some local places and I encouraged him to check out the Stone Mountain site, as well. Quite a few leaf peepers.
Weather: Cool with bright sun and little to no wind out of the north all day.
Raptor Observations: 2 immature bald eagles together at a very high altitude. No flight of local RT, TV or BV until after 1:13. Local TV and RT not counted.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue jays, white throated sparrows, BC chickadees, white breasted nuthatch, dark eyed junco, pileated wp, blue birds, crows, carolina wren, chipping sparrow, ravens, and Nemo.
Predictions: Hopefully more wind than we had today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
I hope you have been enjoying the spectacular fall weather. Even though we see fewer migrating birds, it is a treat to see the leaves changing colors in the crisp fall air.
This week we have two opportunities to join the State College Bird Club.
Tuesday, October 20 - Millbrook Marsh from 8:00 - 9:30 am.
And, new to our bird field trips, we are sponsoring a walk at Bee Wilder Farm. See information below.
Bee Wilder Farm, 143 Charming Ln, Spring Mills, PA 16875
Drive east on Route 45 from Boalsburg about 9.5 miles to Decker Road, turn left and continue north for just over a mile, then turn right on Manor Rd and continue east for another mile before turning right on Bitner Hollow Road. After half a mile, Charming Lane will be on the right, proceed to the end of the lane. Also see Google Maps directions.
Date: 10/19/26 11:10 am From: Chad Kauffman <chadkauffman...> Subject: Re: Jim Dunn
I had heard he wasn't doing well, but when I first got into birding, he joined me on several things, allowing me to join him on various xmas counts, birding chases, etc.
Date: 10/19/26 10:49 am From: Grove, Gregory William <gwg2...> Subject: Jim Dunn
We learned recently of the passing of Jim Dunn at age 76. Jim was a long-time member of the State College Bird Club, including service as President of the Club. A native of South Dakota, Jim had degrees in Chemistry, Math, and Economics and eventually earned a Ph.D. at Oklahoma State. From Oklahoma he came to Penn State in 1977 as Assistant Professor in Agricultural Economics, retiring as full Professor in 2017.
Jims birding career started in 1997 in a way very different than for most of us. During a year-long sabbatical in Australia, he became interested in the birds there and upon his return to State College, was committed all the way to birding. As with many of us, birds became an important component in planning of activities whether in his own backyard, around town and campus, or during world travels related to work. He eventually served four years as President of the State College Bird Club, 2003-2007. His ID skills came quickly and he became a dedicated lister, including Pennsylvania county listing, which he combined with visits connected to Penn State Ag Extension travels through-out the state. His world life-list benefited thanks to his travels and collaborations with faculty from many countries, especially Eastern Europe and republics of the former Soviet Union. In that regard he was proud of his airport life-list, which numbered over 100.
Jims interests and expertise ranged far beyond birding and economics. For many years he was a regular in lunch-time pick-up basketball on campus, often with fellow birders Scott Lewis and Rob Stone. He was a 50-year member of the Toastmasters Club and was on the board of Centre Region Parks and Recreation. He was particularly deeply involved in genealogy, and indeed I learned a lot about his family in South Dakota and Nebraska during slow sessions at the Stone Mt hawk watch.
Jim is survived by wife Polly, son John, and daughter Robin. A celebration of life will be held at Foxdale Village on November 6, 2026, at 12:30 pm.
Memorial contributions may be directed to The Centre Foundations Endowment for the State College Bird Club @ https://centrefoundation.fcsuite.com/erp/donate - and enter State College Bird Club.
Greg Grove
Greg Grove
eBird reviewer: Blair, Cambria, Clearfield, Huntingdon, Juniata, Mifflin
PBA Ridge and Valley Coordinator
Stone Mt. Hawk Watch, Winter Raptor Survey
Huntingdon, PA.
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Connor Schmitt
Observers: Greg Grove
Visitors: Couple families enjoying the weather
Weather: sunny and mid to high 50s. Little to no wind.
Raptor Observations: Slow day
Non-raptor Observations: Non raptors: Red bellied woodpecker, Downy woodpecker, pileated woodpecker, blue jays, ravens, chickadee, Ruby and golden crowned kinglets, RB and WB nuthatches, creeper, starlings, robins, bluebird, waxwings, goldfinch, juncos. Warblers: Yellow-rump
Predictions: another snoozer ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Phil Park
Observers: Aaron Peachey
Visitors: Numerous leaf peepers. Aaron Peachey walked up from the valley. He arrived just as the breeze picked up and was an immense help spotting and identifying.
Weather: No Clouds, no wind, and therefore few birds.
Raptor Observations: The first hour had calm winds and no birds. The second and third hours had a mild southerly breeze and the only birds of the day. Thereafter, the wind dropped, and so did the count.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: High still overhead. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Date: 10/17/26 3:13 pm From: Hawkcount.org reports <reports...> Subject: Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field (17 Oct 2026) 232 Raptors
Bald Eagle Mountain - Eagle Field State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 17, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Bill Chambers, Deb Rittelmann
Weather: Overnight rain and an early shower. Wind NNW, mostly 8-12 mph, but 4-7 mph during 1200-1400, mostly cloudy early, becoming cloudy-free, temp 41-51F. Migration dropped off when the wind decreased and it became clear.
Raptor Observations: BE: Ad-4, Imm-9
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Not sure when next watch day will be, possibly Tuesday or Thursday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Diane Stewart
Observers:
Visitors: Quite a few leaf peepers today.
Weather: Cold and windy all morning making winter clothing a necessity. Winds out of the N all morning which is not good for Jack's.
Raptor Observations: So much activity in the first 30 minutes with 3 large groups of TV moving through both valleys. The first group came out of the east, passing behind the tower, and then following the line over Big Valley. The second and third groups were over the Ferguson Valley side and moved south from that side. There were groups of 38, 31, and 33. While not the raptors I would have liked to see, nonetheless, it was amazing watching them all and really made the day for me. Local RT not counted. Local TV not counted.
Non-raptor Observations: Water fowl were on the move today. 45 Canadian Geese in one formation. A string of 38 Canadian Geese. Another group of 12 geese that did not appear to be Canadian but since I am no expert, I can explain that the neck and head were totally white with a a dark body including the wings and tails. 3 Loons. 9 unidentified water fowl in formation. A murder of 29 crows. Local ravens. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Darrell Smith
Observers: Joe McDonald, Mary Ann McDonald
Visitors: Joe and Mary Ann McDonald visited and helped spot for me. Mary Ann has many ties to the Martinsburg Area where I am from. A couple from Lancaster. Many Leaf Peepers after the fog lifted.
Weather: Completely fogged in to start. A little later the winds picked up out of the south at about 10-15mph. The mountain finally cleared about 10:55. The winds were predominantly South during the day, ending light and variable. A rain front arrived about 1:30 that ended the watch.
Raptor Observations: Imm. GE at 12:55. Local TV's, BV's and Red-tails. A small but good mixture during the watch.
Non-raptor Observations: Local Ravens including Nemo. Migrating Bluejays. Red-Bellied WP.
Predictions: NNW Winds predicted. Not the best winds for Jacks but expect some raptors will be moving after the rain showers of today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 14:15:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Jon Kauffman
Observers: Meredith Sweatlock
Visitors: A couple stopped by on their way to the Florida panhandle, two hikers stopped to chat for a few minutes.
Meredith Sweatlock was official counter.
Weather: Clouds were below the ridge with clear skies above when I arrived in the AM, and then cleared up until right before the storms at 2:30. WSW winds all day.
Raptor Observations: 10 TUVU, 4 BLVU, and 1 RTHA not counted
Lots of flies, stinkbugs, and gnats ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jon Kauffman (<jvk5019...>)
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Connor Schmitt
Observers: Nick Bolgiano, Ron Crandall
Visitors: Pair of sisters from big valley
Weather: Mostly sunny with the last hour being overcast. Slightly chilly with weak winds.
Raptor Observations: Harrier (female)
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptor species: Woodpeckers: Red-bellied, Downy, Hairy, Pileated, Flicker. Blue-headed Vireo, Blue Jay, Crow, Ravens, Chickadees, Tree Swallow, Ruby and Golden crowned kinglets, WB Nuthatch, Starlings, Hermit Thrush, Robins, Waxwings, Pine Siskin, Goldfinch, Juncos, Towhee. Warblers: Blackpolls, Yellow-rumps.
LFE: 5
Predictions: Scattered showers with high winds from the SW ======================================================================== Report submitted by Connor Schmitt (<cschmitts12...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:45:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Cindy Bickel
Observers:
Visitors: Many visitors today. Mike Sipe from New Lancaster Valley came up to share about a nesting pair of Bald Eagles near his home. Roy and Bertie Benn of Belleville arrived and stayed for three hours with me. As the Benn's were leaving David Sharp and Judy Stepanaskie from the Philly area arrived and stayed for 3 hours however there was not much to see besides the locals. Robert Schlabach from NE, Ohio and his family group stopped by to chat awhile. He is a good birder and has his own Crossly Guide to Raptors.
Weather: Mostly sunny, with mild temperatures and a nice breeze throughout most of the day. Winds started out from the NE and gradually shifted SE, which should have brought on a good flight today, but that did not materialize.
Raptor Observations: One unidentified Eagle and one unidentified Buteo that were far out over Ferguson Valley, closer to the other ridge line. One local Bald Eagle, several local Red-tailed Hawks and a steady flight of Turkey and Black Vultures throughout the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jays, a Gold Finch, a huge flight of geese heading towards the Juniata River, a large murder of crows, and Ravens, including Nemo.
Predictions: Showers and warm temperatures are predicted. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Darrell Smith (<oleagleye...>)
