Date: 11/2/26 4:07 am From: Pam Hunt <biodiva63...> Subject: [NHBirds] Nov County Challenge after Day 1
Greetings all,
It was a great day to be out birding yesterday, and several counties came out of the blocks in fine form. The table below presents data for Nov 1 (note that this will not include any additional species not yet verified by eBird review). There are two metrics here:
1) The traditional method: dividing the current species total by the all time county total 2) Instead using the average of the last five years as the baseline. This grounds the contest in recent history rather than all time, and presumably reflects the stellar efforts that counties like Belknap and Sullivan have marshaled in recent years.
Short answer: This doesn't change much, and stat guru Dan Mullarkey and I will be revisiting things a little before the next update.
Belknap and Sullivan are again on the podium, with Merrimack also off to a good start (but with less room for growth). There were some good birds found yesterday, including a PURPLE SANDPIPER in Sullivan (where was it Saturday when I was there?!?!?), continuing Baird's Sandpiper in Belknap, a nice mix of lingering birds in Rockingham and Merrimack, and who knows what else. birders are encouraged to share their NCN stories with the list!
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 6.25 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Austin Gelinas, Chuck Carlson, Glen Chretien, Henry Walters, Hillary Siener, Janet Delaney, John Welch, Julie, Laurel, & Alden Brown, Kris Carlson, Nate Marchessault, Nathan French, Phil Brown, Scott Harvell, Sharon Harvell, Tom Delaney, Van Zimmer, with many more...
Visitors: 104. Thanks Jake and Isabelle for birding with us.
The Big Soup today was fun as always and competition was tight between Phil's Roasted Garlic Gashawk, Nate's Vegan Vulture Chick Curry Soup, Van's Mystery Bird Chili, and Julie's Roughleg Lenticular Lentil. In the end, Phil's creation won first place. Congrats Phil and thanks to all the contestants and voters!
Weather: Sunny day with no clouds and visibility all the way to snowy Mt. Washington. Light westerly winds. Temps ranging from 32 to 46 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Lovely weather but a quiet day for raptors. The first bird of the day and month was an adult Cooper's Hawk. A juvenile harrier in the afternoon tied the season high count for harriers (125). Non-migrating raptors consisted of an immature Bald Eagle, sharpie, and two red-tails.
Non-raptor Observations: The bird of the day was a beautiful Bohemian Waxwing that flew in just after 11am and alighted atop a spruce tree in front of the Observatory to pose for pictures. A Pine Siskin also landed in the spruces today and a male White-winged Crossbill perched briefly as well. Other birds included both Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, Purple Finches, and one Yellow-rumped Warbler.
Predictions: Warmer tomorrow with temps in the fifties and winds from the west. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 11/1/26 2:59 am From: Pam Hunt <biodiva63...> Subject: [NHBirds] Welcome to November!
As the sun starts to appear over the eastern horizon, this is everyone's friendly reminder that the TENTH annual November County Challenge is officially underway (and may have been for a few hours for hard-core owling aficionados!). It looks to be a nice day, with another warmish week to come, so get out while the weather is good and find those lingering species before November finally decides to show us what it's made of. At some point tomorrow I'll share the standings after Day 1, probably using a couple of scoring systems, and we'll see where things go.
But always remember: the main goal here is to have fun!
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.75 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Glen Chretien, Mark Timmerman, Meade Cadot, Nathan French, Nora Hanke, Van Zimmer
Visitors: 114. Thanks to Imogen and Chris for spotting birds with us!
Weather: Mostly blue skies except for some clouds at the start and end. Moderate winds from the northwest, calmer in the afternoon. Temps starting at 32 and reaching 41 degrees by the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: First bird was a Golden Eagle! Spotted around 9:45am near Mount Kearsarge, it stayed distant as it proceeded to travel south below horizon. Identified by its silhouette and dihedral, it didn't come close enough for pictures but was exciting all the same. Another highlight was a distant group of six Black Vultures moving south, setting both a new day and season high count for that species. Some beautiful adult red-shoulders and a couple harriers were among the other migrants. Non-migrating raptors included four adult Bald Eagles flying together and an adult Peregrine hanging out at North Pack.
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds flying by included flocks of geese, adult herring gull, several Purple Finches, eleven robins flying south, some Pine Siskins, Snow Buntings, and, as Glen observed, lots of ravens dressed up as migrating raptors for Halloween.
Predictions: A bit warmer tomorrow with lighter northwest winds. The season total is currently 16,973. Will we reach 17,000 birds during the annual Big Soup? Might want to bring some champagne to have with the soup just in case... ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Jim McCoy, Robin Feustel
Visitors: 104. Thanks to Pat & Brian for bringing beautiful bird pictures and sharing them with visitors!
Weather: Partly sunny with decreasing haze. Stiff winds from the W/WNW, often over 20 mph. Temps starting at 49, rising to 54, and then dropping to 46 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Just a handful of birds moving throughout the day. The last migrant was a beautiful adult sharpie coming in close to investigate Gina, and the last raptor was a local Merlin zooming around at remarkable speed.
Non-raptor Observations: Songbird highlights included one Yellow-rumped Warbler foraging in the birch trees and 36 ravens having fun in the breeze. Porcupine on the ground nearby, and winter firefly on the rocks. Many migrating oak leaves.
Predictions: Colder tomorrow with winds from the northwest. There's a good chance there'll be more birds than today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 61.
Weather: Warm and sunny. Foggy for the first hour and then very hazy. Temps ranging from 40 to 56 degrees. Winds from the WSW, decreasing throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: At first it seemed that the only birds flying were the ravens and local raptors (including an adult red-tail, immature Cooper's, and sharpie). But then finally, around 2:45pm, an immature Bald Eagle appeared over North Pack and headed south with migratory intent. First and last migrant of the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Two shrews and two voles provided the entertainment today, nibbling on the birdseed and scurrying back and forth as they cached some for later. Blue Jays, chickadees, juncos (one missing its tail), and a single chipmunk also snacked on the birdseed.
Predictions: Sunny and breezy tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/29/26 1:18 pm From: birdrecords <birdrecords...> Subject: [NHBirds] November 7 Presentation: An Experiment in Birding
Sharing information about a free presentation at NH Audubon's McLane Center in Concord on November 7th from 2-4pm. Details and registration link are below:
An Experiment in Birding
Two friends, Stacey Huth and Noah Gibb, decided to embark on a birding big year in 2025. They set their geography to only the state of Maine and set their time parameters to only those birds they could get to during day trips. By relying on an intricate plan, lots of coffee and pizza, and their fellow birding community to put the call out about rare sightings and vagrants, Stacey and Noah broke the Maine record (previously at 325 species) and documented a staggering 332 bird species during the year. Join them to learn more about their journey and how they tackled challenges like weather, full-time jobs, family obligations, and a desire to ensure their records were documented in an ethical way. Stacey and Noah will begin with a book signing and then a presentation about their big year. Books will be available to purchase at the event.
This is a belated report of the Rochester WTP returning to their normal 7-3 hours after Labor Day. Please be out by 2:45 and avoid the work areas on the right side of the ponds beyond building D. Thanks, Dan Hubbard, Rochester
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Mark Timmerman, Nate Marchessault
Observers: Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Mark Timmerman, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 24 folks throughout the day. Thanks, Dan, for making the trip up, and Linden, for switching up your usual Carter Hill watch to come out to hawkwatch with us today!
Weather: Mild day with temps from 1-6 C and light winds from the southwest. Mostly cloudy all day with the sun poking out a bit around the noon hours.
Raptor Observations: Not much on the move today! A red-tail kicked was the first raptor on the board a little before 11, and a slow trickle of birds until our last bird at 2:30. Most birds drifted lazily southward, so the birds we did see we had nice long looks at and several came reasonably close to the hawkwatch. All 5 red-shoulders today were adults, and their rufous plumage was intesified by the low fall sun.
For non-migrants, mid-day I spotted a distant Black Vulture to the east that went out of view almost immediately and unfortunately could not get others at the hawkwatch on (sorry guys!).
Non-raptor Observations: The usual songbirds around the hawkwatch were accompanied by a continuing shrew and continuing porcupine. Two snow buntings circled the watch on two separate occasions, and were a life bird for Linden!
Predictions: Sunny skies, mild/warm temps, and steady southwest winds. I'm not a fortune teller, but I don't think it will be the best day for migrating raptors! Some bigger birds might ignore the winds and move anyway, though. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/26/26 3:04 pm From: 'Kurk Dorsey' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] November County Challenge!
Are we allowed to substitute idol banter for idle banter? Maybe we could get points for the idlest banter?
Kurk
________________________________
From: <nhbirds...> <nhbirds...> on behalf of lori charron <lpcharron...>
Sent: Monday, October 26, 2026 5:39 PM
To: <biodiva63...> <biodiva63...>
Cc: Bob. Quinn raqbirds via NHBirds <nhbirds...>; <UV-BIRDERS...> <UV-BIRDERS...>
Subject: Re: [NHBirds] November County Challenge!
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the University System. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hi Pam! Ready and excited for the November challenge!
Happy Birding!
Lori
On Mon, Oct 26, 2026, 8:19 AM Pam Hunt <biodiva63...><mailto:<biodiva63...>> wrote:
Greetings all,
Guess what?! It's almost November, which means it's time for NH birders to reinvigorate themselves in this "dead zone" between peak migration and the CBCs. For the last nine years, we have fanned out across the state's ten counties in a friendly competition to see which county comes out on top. For newbies, the scoring here is complicated and possibly flawed, but we try to use some sort of percentage system so not give bird-rich counties an overwhelming advantage. The result has traditionally been the opposite: counties with
lower historic species totals tend you win. Dan Mullarky has offered to help try to find a middle ground for 2026, so stay tuned.
But no matter how it's scored, the rules remain unchanged.
1) Go birding in a county of counties of your choice (some of us have fierce loyalties in November these days!) - starting on November 1
2) Report your birds on eBird. Birds not in eBird are not registered and thus don't count towards county totals.
3) periodically we'll be looking at county-level totals and providing status updates as the month progresses.
4) Provide idle banter and/or team encouragement as the contest heats up.
5) Have fun
The gates open next Sunday at 12:01 am. Will you be ready?
Date: 10/26/26 2:41 pm From: lori charron <lpcharron...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] November County Challenge!
Hi Pam! Ready and excited for the November challenge! Happy Birding! Lori
On Mon, Oct 26, 2026, 8:19 AM Pam Hunt <biodiva63...> wrote:
> Greetings all, > > Guess what?! It's almost November, which means it's time for NH birders to > reinvigorate themselves in this "dead zone" between peak migration and the > CBCs. For the last nine years, we have fanned out across the state's ten > counties in a friendly competition to see which county comes out on top. > For newbies, the scoring here is complicated and possibly flawed, but we > try to use some sort of percentage system so not give bird-rich counties an > overwhelming advantage. The result has traditionally been the opposite: > counties with > lower historic species totals tend you win. Dan Mullarky has offered to > help try to find a middle ground for 2026, so stay tuned. > > But no matter how it's scored, the rules remain unchanged. > 1) Go birding in a county of counties of your choice (some of us have > fierce loyalties in November these days!) - starting on November 1 > 2) Report your birds on eBird. Birds not in eBird are not registered and > thus don't count towards county totals. > 3) periodically we'll be looking at county-level totals and providing > status updates as the month progresses. > 4) Provide idle banter and/or team encouragement as the contest heats up. > 5) Have fun > > The gates open next Sunday at 12:01 am. Will you be ready? > > Pam Hunt > Concord, NH > > -- > To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit: > https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "NHBirds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...> > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<CAPZ2PUt839hTDiSZz5mDU0-15We-we-juuPNP6b70kgaYjFQyg...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<CAPZ2PUt839hTDiSZz5mDU0-15We-we-juuPNP6b70kgaYjFQyg...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . >
Date: 10/26/26 10:45 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, October 26, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for October 26th, 2026.
A LECONTE’S SPARROW was seen at Wagon Hill Farm in Durham on October 25th.
A GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was seen at Woodmont Orchard in Hollis on October 25th
.
A LINCOLN’S SPARROW was seen on Cavender Road in Hancock on October 26th.
6 WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS were seen at Pack Monadnock in Peterborough on
October 25th. `
4 SNOW BUNTINGS were seen in Troy on October 21st, and 1 was seen in Lyme
on the 22nd.
An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen near South Mill Pond in Portsmouth on
October 25th.
YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO sightings reported during the past week included 1
from Pease International Trade Port in Portsmouth on October 23rd, 1 from
Goss Farm in Rye on the 24th, 1 from Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on the
22nd, 1 from Tide Mill Road in Hampton on the 24th.
A BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER was seen at Pondicherry National Wildlife Refuge
in Jefferson on October 21st.
1-3 AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVERS were seen at Rye Harbor State Park on multiple
days during the past week.
3 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS and 2 WILSON’S SNIPE were seen at Hoit Road Marsh in
Concord on October 25th.
A LAUGHING GULL was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on October 19th.
A GREEN HERON was seen at Pickering Ponds in Rochester on October 24th.
About 20 GREAT EGRETS were seen along the coast on October 25th.
4 WILSON’S STORM-PETRELS were seen at Jeffrey’s Ledge on October 19th.
3 CANVASBACKS and 3 REDHEADS were seen from Sunset Farm on Great Bay in
Greenland on October 25th.
2 NORTHERN PINTAILS were seen at Hoit Road Marsh in Concord on October 25th.
Uncommon away from the coast.
5 BLACK VULTURES were seen from Pack Monadnock in Peterborough on October 25
th, 3 were seen in Epping on the 23rd, and 1 was seen at the Cedar Swamp in
Manchester on the 21st.
3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen flying over the Sewalls Falls Road area on the
Merrimack River in Concord on October 24th, 3 were seen at Lackie Farm in
Bath on the 21st, 3 were seen from Highland Street in Woodsville on the 23rd,
and 3 were seen flying over the Pack Monadnock area in Peterborough on the
24th.
Lingering species reported during the past week included: YELLOW-BELLIED
SAPSUCKER, GRAY CATBIRD, WOOD THRUSH, SWAINSON’S THRUSH, NASHVILLE WARBLER,
BLUE-HEADED VIREO, TENNESSEE WARBLER, AMERICAN REDSTART, BLACKPOLL WARBLER,
and COMMON YELLOWTHROAT.
Fall season hawk migration observation is continuing and observers have
counted over 16,633 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 10/26/26 5:19 am From: Pam Hunt <biodiva63...> Subject: [NHBirds] November County Challenge!
Greetings all,
Guess what?! It's almost November, which means it's time for NH birders to reinvigorate themselves in this "dead zone" between peak migration and the CBCs. For the last nine years, we have fanned out across the state's ten counties in a friendly competition to see which county comes out on top. For newbies, the scoring here is complicated and possibly flawed, but we try to use some sort of percentage system so not give bird-rich counties an overwhelming advantage. The result has traditionally been the opposite: counties with lower historic species totals tend you win. Dan Mullarky has offered to help try to find a middle ground for 2026, so stay tuned.
But no matter how it's scored, the rules remain unchanged. 1) Go birding in a county of counties of your choice (some of us have fierce loyalties in November these days!) - starting on November 1 2) Report your birds on eBird. Birds not in eBird are not registered and thus don't count towards county totals. 3) periodically we'll be looking at county-level totals and providing status updates as the month progresses. 4) Provide idle banter and/or team encouragement as the contest heats up. 5) Have fun
The gates open next Sunday at 12:01 am. Will you be ready?
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Dr. Jonathan Atwood, Glen Chretien, Mike Gebo, Nathan French, Polly Pattison, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 238. Nice to see Silas, David, Sam, and Jim.
Weather: Warm and sunny with no clouds. Mt. Washington in view all day. Slight breeze from the west. Temps starting at 43 and ending at 56 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Like yesterday, the first bird was a harrier during 11 o'clock and the most birds came by during 1 o'clock, but we fell short of tying with yesterday and the day before's count. A paraglider and hot air balloon seen during the last hour didn't help us reach 21 because they weren't migrating. Highlights included a beautiful adult goshawk flying through the valley and five Black Vultures wandering northwards (new high count from Pack).
Non-raptor Observations: A Ruby-crowned Kinglet flitted about near the platform, and a flock of six White-winged Crossbills flew over!
Lots of insects around including Western Conifer Seed Bugs, Clouded Sulphur, Autumn Meadowhawk, Asian Lady Beetle, Pine Tree Spur-throat Grasshoppers, Punctated Ground Crab Spider, jumping spiders, wasps, and green lacewing.
Predictions: Looks like another pleasant day tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman
Observers: David Wiedner, Glen Chretien, Jim McCoy, Katrina Fenton, Levi Burford, Mark Timmerman, Nora Hanke
Visitors: 202 visitors. Thanks Jim, Carl, Chris, Pat & Brian, and many others for spending time with us!
Weather: Mostly sunny with visibility to Mt. Washington. Gentle breeze from the northwest, becoming almost calm in the afternoon. Temps ranging from high thirties to low fifties.
Raptor Observations: The first bird of the day was a juvenile harrier flying through during 11 o'clock. It was followed by two more harriers, a few vultures, some buteos, some accips, some eagles, and a Merlin. The most birds came by during 1 o'clock (nine). Bald Eagles won the prize for the most abundant bird today, with four counted as migrants (all immature).
Non-raptor Observations: One exciting highlight: Around 4:30pm, Glen spotted three Sandhill Cranes flying over the valley! Purple Finches, Pine Siskins, and one Common Loon also flew over. A Blue Jay and chickadees enjoyed the birdseed.
Monarchs: 1/846
Predictions: Similar weather tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
I took this pic from my bedroom window. I think it is a yellow billed cuckoo. would apprecitate it if anyone is willing to weigh in on it. Wish I got a better pic but I wasn't ready and my phone is all I had.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger
Visitors: 115. Hello to John and Dylan!
Weather: Sunny day with no clouds. Light winds from the northeast. Temps rising from low thirties to mid forties.
Raptor Observations: A trickle of birds throughout the day. Another late broad-wing came by, an immature that paused to circle with some ravens and a red-tail.
Non-raptor Observations: Crows stole the show today with 293 migrating by through the valley, mostly in small groups but including one long line of 159.
Predictions: A bit warmer tomorrow with a light breeze from the northwest. Looks like a good day for more buteos or vultures. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 195 including some school kids who flat-out refused to believe that a flyover red-tail wasn't a Golden Eagle.
Weather: Mostly sunny with a few high clouds. Windy at times, mostly from the north or northeast. Temps starting at 42 and ending at 52 degrees.
Raptor Observations: The first bird of the day was a beautiful "gray ghost" male harrier flying through the valley. Nice mix of species on the move, including one goshawk, two Peregrines, and three kestrels.
Non-raptor Observations: The resident ravens put on a show, and a few of the other usual suspects were around.
Predictions: Slightly colder tomorrow, with more sunshine and northeast winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Tom Delaney
Observers: Amy Maurer, Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Judd Nathan, Mark Timmerman, Nikko Gagnon, Nora Hanke, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: Tom Delaney was the official counter today and provided this report.
63 visitors. It's amazing how knowledgeable and interested our visitors are. It's rewarding to talk with them and share their excitement. A group of 120 students had planned to come. The ever dependable Nikko was poised to greet them, but only six made it to the platform!
Weather: A moderate day, starting out at 34 F and warming up to 48 F. Wind was from the NE and was light and diminishing towards the end of the day. Visibility good, but lots of blue sky for most of the day with some clouds inching in from the south from an ocean storm. Some high thin wispy clouds helped a bit.
Raptor Observations: Red-shouldered hawk 15 minutes after start time was a promising start to the day, followed by a couple of early sharpies. First couple of hours were strongest for migration, with 11 and 13 birds in consecutive hours, red-shouldered and red-tailed leading the way. One male gray ghost harrier came in hour two, then the count slowed to 1-3 birds per hour.
Predictions: A little warmer and cloudier, with temps in the mid 50s and a N wind up to 12 mph. Could be a good day for diversity, and maybe a golden! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/21/26 9:19 am From: David Govatski <david.govatski...> Subject: [NHBirds] Black-backed Woodpecker in Jefferson
Brad Meiklejohn and I watched a female Black-backed Woodpecker at the Pondicherry National Wildlife Refuge in Jefferson on Wednesday morning. The bird was foraging in some dead balsam fir trees at the first junction of the Little Cherry Pond Trail. We also saw a family of four river otters at Cherry Pond. The Tamarack are a gorgeous golden color at this time of year.
I had 6 ruffed grouse in our crab apple tree yesterday afternoon eating crab apples. This is an annual event for them to feed on the seven trees I planted years ago.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 23, including a group that asked about the watch. When I gave them the breakdown for each species they said "Just today?" Poor hikers, they know not what soars over their heads. Thank you to Barbara of Alton for stopping by again, along with Husband Tom The Retired Forester.
Weather: Cloudless skies with some high thin clouds on the far horizon to the east with lake fog until 10:00; moderate NE winds diminishing to light after 12:15 and calm by 3:00; 49 - 67 F.
Raptor Observations: A record breaking day for Sharp-shinned Hawk, setting a new season high count, besting the old record of 149 set in 2022. The first raptor of the day was indeed Sharp-shin but not until 10:10. Then a steady movement passed in front of Mt Major, sometimes 3 at a time, every hour.
Non-raptor Observations: 37 Pine Siskins, including a flock of 30, 33 Yellow-rumps, and a kettle of 10 ravens that let a Red-tailed Hawk ride at the top.
Predictions: Now that the Sharp-shin record is locked down, I will return next week for the peak of both Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks at the end of October and first 2 days of November. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Julie Brown, Phil Brown
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Nora Hanke, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 155 including 80 students from Wilkins Elementary in Amherst, NH, who enjoyed seeing a Bald Eagle up close! Thanks to Phil from MA for visiting.
Weather: Moderately warm day with temps 46-55 F and clear blue skies. Light to moderate breeze out of the NE all day, but a bit hazy midday.
Raptor Observations: A productive afternoon for Red-shouldered Hawks and a smattering of other species. A young Peregrine stole the show in early afternoon as it swooped around the summit, playing with ravens. Later, a pair of Merlins appeared, darting past us and swooping at Gina several times. A few sharpies also made close passes. A juvenile Northern Harrier at 515 pm was the last bird of the day, close to the west. A juvenile American Goshawk sparred briefly with ravens over North Pack late in the day, perching in the spruces there for several minutes.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 49 Pine Siskin - 52 (single flock of 40) American Crow - 6 migrating Monarch: 1/844 (late)
Predictions: A continuation of similar conditions, so expect more red-shoulders and sharpies, and hopefully, more falcons and eagles! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/20/26 10:18 am From: birdrecords <birdrecords...> Subject: [NHBirds] Joy of Birding: October News!
The sparrows are busy flitting around what's left of my garden. As the air gets brisker, we're bringing you two stories of hope from the summer, an in-depth guide to a tricky identification, and a return to an excellent Where to Bird feature.
Read about the extraordinary lengths biologists went to this summer to help a Peregrine Falcon chick<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/the-adventures-of-madi/> and two Osprey chicks<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/two-osprey-chicks-get-a-second-chance/>. In both cases, fans followed the chicks' journeys on livestreams, getting a glimpse into their lives as they grew. Nest cams offer a wonderful window into the lives of young raptors, but they also reveal the raw and often difficult journeys these birds face on their way to adulthood.
Ben Griffith takes us into the fascinating world of flycatchers with an in-depth guide to help us identify these birds. While most flycatchers have left New Hampshire by late fall, an occasional sighting can turn heads and raise questions. Learn what to look for and why a late-season flycatcher deserves a closer look.<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/empids-in-late-fall/>
An oldie but a goodie, we're bringing back a Where to Bird feature from Dublin, New Hampshire<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/dublin-birding/>. Looking for an excuse to get outside this fall? It's a great time to explore somewhere new, enjoy the changing season, and see what's moving through. Revisit this local favorite for inspiration for your next birding adventure
About Joy of Birding
Joy of Birding is the online home of New Hampshire Bird Records, a publication that has documented New Hampshire's bird sightings, seasons, and birding stories for more than 40 years. The transition from print to online has allowed us to continue sharing the stories of New Hampshire's birds while making them freely available to everyone, from experienced birders to those just beginning to explore the world of birds.
Visit the Joy of Birding (https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/) homepage to explore the latest articles and sign up for our free monthly newsletter, featuring new stories, seasonal highlights, and birding news from around the Granite State delivered directly to your inbox.
Happy Birding!
Grace
Grace McCulloch
She/Her
Community Science Project Leader
New Hampshire Audubon
84 Silk Farm Road
Concord, NH 03301
www.nhaudubon.org<http://www.nhaudubon.org/> <gmcculloch...><mailto:<gmcculloch...>
I recently received word that George Gavutis has retired from doing his Breeding Bird Survey route in East Kingston (after 24 years!). The route starts in East Kingston and wanders southeast to the Windham/Salem area. As with all BBS routes, it consists of 50 stops spaced half a mile apart and is surveyed once a year during the peak breeding season (typically June). Observers must be able to identify most local breeding species by sight and sound (mostly the latter on BBS routes) and ideally be willing to commit to doing the survey for several years (this helps with data consistency). I'm sure there must be a few birders meeting these criteria in southwestern Rockingham County, so feel free to reply to this email with your interest or questions.
There also still a possible opening for the Gilmanton route than starts in the named town and works west to Northfield. There may be a candidate in line for this route, but nothing is confirmed, and it can't hurt to build up a list of interested parties for when other routes become available.
The BBS has been going on in NH since 1966 and generates most of the data bird conservationists use to assess populations at state, regional, and continental levels. Except for state coordinators such as myself, it is almost entirely a volunteer effort. Many thanks to the folks who do their routes each year and those who might be interested in joining the team.
Pam
Pamela D. Hunt, Ph.D.
Senior Biologist for Avian Conservation
NH Audubon
603-224-9909 x328 (office)
Voicemail gets forwarded to email so please leave a message so I know you called and can get back to you.
How are NH's birds doing? Check out our "State of the Birds" report at:
https://stateofthebirds.nhaudubon.org/ ___
_/ -o-- \_____
\ / \''''',,,,,\__
\/////////'' _\======
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Nikko Gagnon
Visitors: 200 visitors, including two school groups, a couple New Zealanders, and some folks from California, along with lots of friendly dogs.
Weather: Clear blue skies with excellent visibility. Light variable breeze. Temps ranging from 43 to 50 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Nice mix of migrants today including a few close kestrels, some high red-shoulders, and several Turkey Vultures. Three Black Vultures were seen flying north and not counted.
Non-raptor Observations: Ravens played above North Pack and landed on the rocks. A Blackpoll Warbler foraged with the yellow-rumps near the platform. A garter snake came out to enjoy the sunshine, and an American Lady butterfly flew by.
Predictions: Similar weather again tomorrow, with perhaps a slightly stronger breeze from the northeast. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/19/26 12:42 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, October 19, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for October 19th, 2026.
A COMMON RINGED PLOVER was seen at Rye Harbor State Park on October 15th.
This appears to be a different bird than the COMMON RINGED PLOVER that was
seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on September 19th - 21st, and was
last reported on September 22nd.
3 AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVERS were seen at Rye Harbor State Park on October 15th
.
A RED-NECKED PHALAROPE, a LITTLE GULL, a WILSON’S STORM PETREL, a POMARINE
JAEGER and 5 NORTHERN FULMARS were seen at Jeffrey’s Ledge on October 12th.
9 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen along the Androscoggin River in Errol on
October 17th.
67 LAUGHING GULLS were seen at Rye Harbor State Park on October 16th.
12 WILSON’S STORM-PETRELS were seen at Jeffrey’s Ledge on October 18th.
An immature LITTLE BLUE HERON was seen in Seabrook Marshes on October 16th.
A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Star Island, one of the Isles of Shoals, on
October 14th.
2 GOLDEN EAGLES were seen from Pack Monadnock in Peterborough on October 17
th, and 2 were seen from Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, also on the 17th.
A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen from Pack Monadnock in Peterborough on October
17th, and 1 was seen at Pontook Reservoir in Dummer, also on the 17th.
2 BLACK VULTURES were seen at the Cedar Swamp in Manchester on October 15th,
and 1 was seen at the Wright Farm in Atkinson on the 17th.
A SANDHILL CRANE was seen at Pondicherry National Wildlife Refuge in
Jefferson on October 18th. A LONG-TAILED DUCK was seen here on the 17th.
A YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT was seen at Star Island, one of the Isles of Shoals,
on October 15th, and 1 was seen on private property near South Mill Pond in
Portsmouth on October 14th.
2 ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLERS were seen at the NH F&G Bellamy River WMA in
Dover on October 17th, and 1 was seen at the Strafford County Farm Complex
in Dover, also on the 17th.
An AMERICAN TREE SPARROW was seen in Millsfield on October 15th. Early
arrival.
A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on October 17th.
A DICKCISSEL was seen at Goss Farm in Rye, 2 were seen at Star Island in
Rye, 1 was seen at the Ines and Fredrick Yeatts Wildlife Sanctuary in
Warren, and 1 was seen at the Birch Street Community Gardens in Concord,
all on multiple times during the past week.
Lingering species reported during the past week included: RUBY-THROATED
HUMMINGBIRD, BARN SWALLOW, MARSH WREN, NORTHERN HOUSEWREN, NASHVILLE
WARBLER, NORTHERN PARULA, MAGNOLIA WARBLER, BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. NORTHERN
YELLOW WARBLER, BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER, TENNESSEE WARBLER, AMERICAN
REDSTART, BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER, EASTERN KINGBIRD, EASTERN
WOOD-PEWEE, EASTERN PHOEBE, YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, PHILADELPHIA VIREO,
RED-EYED VIREO, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, VESPER SPARROW, BOBOLINK, and
INDIGO BUNTING.
Over 8,000 SCOTERS were counted migrating south, along the coast, on
October 16th.
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 16,633 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Mike Gebo, Nathan French, Nora Hanke, Phil Brown, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 318.
Weather: Clear and sunny with hardly any wind. Temps ranging from 35 to 45 degrees. Very pleasant day for hawkwatching after yesterday.
Raptor Observations: Excellent day for migration with lots of birds getting lift from the thermals. A fun kettle of nine red-shoulders, two sharpies, "gray ghost" harrier, juvenile harrier, and several ravens brought back memories of busy September days gone by. Soon after, a late broad-wing flew by through the valley! Several Turkey Vultures drifted by, including one kettle of eleven birds. We ended the day with a triple-digit count. A season total exceeding 17,000 migrants is looking within reach!
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds included two Downy Woodpeckers, two Purple Finches, and two species of kinglets.
Predictions: Another sunny day tomorrow with slightly higher temps. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
On Sun, Oct 18, 2026 at 4:03 PM 'J. Esten' via NHBirds <
<nhbirds...> wrote:
> Sent earlier from the wrong email address - oops :
>
> I have a migrating Eastern Phoebe this morning. This is the latest for my
> yard.
> My resident nesting pair left on 10/10 I believe.
>
>
> Jen Esten
> New London
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "NHBirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<C5A21BAC-D714-4CFB-A0B5-7B081CDD7912...> > .
>
Plaice Cove
Red-breasted Merganser 49 (no adult drakes)
Red-throated Loon 2
Bonaparte’s Gull 1
C. Eider x
Barn Swallow 1 (trying to keep warm….)
Yellow-rumped Warbler 7 (2 flew up onto deck and one found a moth to have for breakfast…)
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman
Observers: Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Jim McCoy, Mark Timmerman, Nate Marchessault, Nora Hanke, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 196. Thanks Chris, Silas, and many others for spotting birds with us!
Weather: Cold, November-like day with temps in the low thirties and winds from the northwest. Short snow squall during 12 o'clock. Cloudy for much of the day but sunny for the last two hours of the count. Nice view of the snowy mountains to our north later in the day.
Raptor Observations: Exciting day with thirteen different raptor species. First double-digit counts of Red-tailed Hawks (10) and Merlins (11). Several Turkey Vultures on the move, and a slight uptick in Bald Eagle numbers continues. But the two best parts of the day are described below:
A little before 12pm, a dark eagle was spotted flying high in the distance. Very buteo-like with a small head and noticeable dihedral, it turned out to be the season's first Golden Eagle! It moved towards the south and joined up with two more eagles. One was a Bald Eagle with much flatter wings and the other was another adult Golden with the same shape and dihedral as the first bird. The three of them then soared away together, never coming close enough for satisfying looks but still leaving many observers happy.
Later in the day, just after 4pm, an interesting raptor was spotted flying above North Pack, surrounded by three ravens. Dark underneath with long black-and-white wings, it was none other than a Rough-legged Hawk! It flew high towards the southeast, with one of the ravens following it for most of the way. Just as it was about to disappear behind the trees, it miraculously turned around and started coming back, flying lower and lower until it was right out in front of the hawkwatch. What a special moment! Gorgeous dark-morph bird with crisp, eye-catching plumage. Observers were able to capture many beautiful photographs. Eventually it flew up and off towards the southwest.
Other raptor highlights included a "gray ghost" adult male harrier flying through the valley, a juvenile Peregrine flying directly overhead, and a big goshawk gliding powerfully through the wind.
Non-raptor Observations: The chickadees and juncos appreciated extra birdseed during the cold weather. Several Yellow-rumped Warblers flew over, and 307 Canada Geese went by, including one flock of 43 birds flying right above us and close enough to hear.
Predictions: Sunnier and warmer tomorrow, with only a light northwest breeze. Looks like a good day for thermals. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
A Saturday visit to Cherry Pond in Jefferson found all three scoter species on Cherry Pond: 65 black scoters 7 surf scoters 1 white-winged scoter 1 long-tailed duck 1 horned grebe 7 bufflehead 1 common Goldeneye 1 common merganser 1 northern harrier 3 otter Tamarack turning golden Snow on the Presidential Range
Date: 10/17/26 3:24 pm From: Lori Charron <lpcharron...> Subject: [NHBirds] Coos County
What a great day up here in northern Coos County from Dixville to Milan! After an early morning text from my brother that black scoters were on Akers pond we started our 8.5 hrs of birding. Besides the local waterfowl highlights for the day were: black scoters on Akers pond, white-winged scoters on lake Gloriette, horned grebe and black scoters at Pontook, 9 pectoral sandpipers on Rt 16 along the Androscoggin river, and over 200 ring-necked ducks in the cove on Mt pond rd. We also had a rough-legged hawk at Pontook which was a great bonus! All in all one of the best fall birding days so far this season!
Happy Birding!
Lori
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Mike Gebo, Nora Hanke, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 171 visitors from near and far.
Weather: Sunny autumn day with excellent visibility. Winds from the NNW, starting near 20 mph and gradually becoming almost calm. Temps rising from 39 to 48 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Great day for migration, with high numbers and ten different species on the move. We had the season's first double-digit count of red-shoulders (14) and the highest count so far of migrating red-tails (4). The most birds came by during 10 o'clock but there were birds every hour. One red-tail interacted with an immature Bald Eagle, causing the eagle to flip upside down.
Non-raptor Observations: Several waterbirds were seen today including six loons, one herring gull, one cormorant, and 666 geese. There was also a nice mix of finches flying over including the season's first Evening Grosbeak and Purple Finches, along with the biggest flock so far of Pine Siskins (15). Saw my first snow fleas of the season, too, jumping about on the rocks.
Predictions: Rain tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 41, with 2 recognizing me from a prior visit. One lady told me she still has her copy of the hawk ID cheat sheet I handed out to her last year. I told her surely it is now nicely framed and hanging prominently in her living room. She answered affirmatively, if not honestly.
Weather: Close to ideal conditions, clear skies with scattered high thin clouds; steady light and moderate NW and WNW winds; mild, 47 - 58 F.
Raptor Observations: Data from 3 nearby hawk watches from the past 3 years shows a second peak flight for Sharp-shinned Hawk on the the 15th and 16th of October. Today's 12 is a good count but not high enough to be a real peak. Let's see if Pack reached a good count for Sharp-shins today. I need 17 more Sharp-shins to set a new season high count, this could go down to the wire. Overall a good count with 9 species showing and something counted during each of the 7 hours. The onset of Red-tailed Hawk migration was evident, with the peak still 2 weeks away.
Non-raptor Observations: 188 Canada Geese in 3 flocks, 36 Yellow-rumped Warblers, and a Monarch, last one?
Predictions: Rain tomorrow, skip the weekend, and Tuesday looks like the next good day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Date: 10/15/26 3:38 am From: Jane Rice <moultnews...> Subject: [NHBirds] Birding Cuba program tonight
Birding Cuba: Experience an adventure in birding during a time of turmoil in a country so close to our shores but a world apart. This presentation features not only colorful and endemic birds but also insight into daily life in Cuba. Please join us in exploring the country’s birds, pleasant scenery and resilient people.
Presented by Charlie Nims, at the Loon Center in Moultonborough, Thursday, October 15, 7 pm.
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Mark Timmerman, Nate Marchessault, Tom Delaney
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Dot Currier, Mark Timmerman, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 103.Thanks all for stopping in, and helping to spot raptors!
Weather: After the previous night's rain, it was off to a sticky start with very humid air and low clouds/fog, which fortunately weren't socking in the hawk watch. Steady wind from the southwest shifting westward and intensifying through the afternoon, mild temps in the mid 60's for most of the day.
Raptor Observations: It was another slow start with the first migrating raptor just before the 11 o'clock hour. Steady trickle of birds through most of the day, and toward the end of the day a fair number of falcons and other raptors quickly blew through, flying low over the valley.
Non-raptor Observations: Ravens were having a blast in the wind, with 32 being the most counted on a single scan. Four chipmunks continued to cache our birdseed, and chickadees and juncos grabbed what they could. both Golden- and Ruby-crowned Kinglets around the watch, and a Yellow-rumped warbler made an appearance. No other migrants like geese or jays today.
Predictions: Partly cloudy skies and winds from the NNW. Seems like it could be a good one! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/14/26 12:44 am From: bikenbird via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] REMINDER*** NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 PM Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory***
New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
Please note the following:
* Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs) for any changes that may impact the in person program.
* There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you!
Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 pm Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory (note: This is a program change from the published program in the Summer/Fall 2026 Newsletter)
Join Harris Center bird conservation director and raptor aficionado Phil Brown for an overview of the hawk migration season through the lens of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory in Peterborough, which has been tallying migrating raptors for over twenty years. Learn identification tips, life histories, conservation trends, and migration strategies for the fifteen or so raptor species that pass over NH's airspace each fall, and hear about research and conservation initiatives to protect them. You'll be well prepared for hawk migration after this informative and photo-filled session!
Bio: Phil Brown grew up in New York City and developed a deep interest in the natural world, particularly birds, at a young age. In and after undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, he pursued a career in conservation stewardship, initially in urban settings. In 2004, he took to the wilder woodlands of New Hampshire, where he served as NH Audubon's Director of Land Management stewarding wildlife sanctuaries, a position he held for 17 years. This formative experience helped him shape a career that today blends conservation, stewardship, and education.Phil's path first crossed with the Harris Center during his time as a graduate student at Antioch University New England in 2007 and, as a new Monadnock Region resident, he began to get involved leading field trips. Phil made the move to the Harris Center in 2021 as the organization's first Bird Conservation Director. He manages a variety of conservation projects focused on American Kestrel conservation, Broad-winged Hawk ecology, Northern Saw-whet Owl banding, and other focal species of conservation concern. Perhaps most central to his Harris Center work is the coordination of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory, an effort he has led for both NH Audubon and the Harris Center for over 15 years.In addition, Phil is a frequent field trip leader for the Harris Center, the Hawk Migration Association, and other organizations. He leads immersive bird and nature-based journeys in Costa Rica several times a year for The Dreamcatchers and, under this outfit, recently co-authored his first book, MicroExploring the SuperSanctuary, which brings a new philosophy to exploring places close to home, connecting people to nature in a deeper way (see May 2027 program). Phil lives in Hancock with his family, where he can be found in a variety of outdoor pursuits in all seasons.
All are welcome to attend our Wednesday October 14, 2026 program which is free of charge at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible), Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH (click here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center) There will be refreshments starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
Thank You! Dunkin’ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit the location mention a thank you!
Date: 10/13/26 8:27 am From: David Govatski <david.govatski...> Subject: [NHBirds] Pondicherry Big Sit Results
The 20th annual Pondicherry Big Sit was held on Saturday 10 October 2026 from before sunrise to sunset. The Big Sit rules state that we can count all birds seen or positively heard from a 17-foot diameter circle. We use the Tudor Richard Viewing Platform at the edge of Cherry Pond in Jefferson. This is a 1.5 mile walk or bicycle ride in from the trailhead on Airport Road. The night sky early that morning was clear, and the Milky Way visible on the bike ride in. The starting temperature was 32 degrees and the deck had frost on it.
The 8 participants tallied a total of 35 species for the day and that is the average number of species seen over the 20 year period. The viewing conditions were excellent with clear skies and light West winds later in the morning from 2-5 mph. There was minimal migration and no V flocks of Canada geese flying overhead. The warm fall and lack of favorable North winds have delayed migration.
We added two new species to the Big Sit list that now stands at 94 species over 20 years on this date. We added Northern Pintail when a flock of 12 flew over the platform. We also added a common summer species, a lone red-winged blackbird. The only two warbler species were palm and yellow-rumped. Five black scoter were noted at dawn but left soon after.
Date: 10/12/26 6:03 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, October 12, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for October 12th, 2026.
A PACIFIC LOON was seen from Rye Harbor State Park on October 11th.
A POMARINE JAEGER, 11 WILSON’S STORM-PETRELS, and 1-2 RAZORBILLS were seen
at Jeffrey’s Ledge, all on October 12th.
LITTLE GULLS were seen at Great Island Common in New Castle on October 8th.
and a COMMON TERN was seen here on the 5th.
Several LAUGHING GULLS and RED-THROATED LOONS were seen along coastal Rye
during the past week.
2 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals during the past
week.
A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on October 10th.
2 BLACK VULTURES were seen at the Contoocook Cemetery on October 6th, 1 was
seen in East Kingston on the 9th, and was seen in Franklin on the 9th.
2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen at the McIndoes Reservoir in Monroe on October 6
th.
A WHITE-EYED VIREO was seen on private property in Seabrook
on October 9th.
A YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT seen on private property in Rochester on October 11th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a CONNECTICUT WARBLER from Rye Harbor
State Park on October 6th.
2 NELSON’S SPARROWS were seen on Krif Road in Keene on October 9th.
An AMERICAN TREE SPARROW was seen in Millsfield on October 11th. Early
arrival.
2 CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye on October 8th, and 1
was seen at the Birch Street Community Gardens in Concord on October 11th.
2 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye, 1 was seen at Salt Marsh Lane
in Greenland, 1 was seen at Landing Avenue in Concord, and 1 was seen at
the Birch Street Community Gardens in Concord, all on multiple times during
the past week.
A LESSER SCAUP was seen at Turtle Pomd in Concord on October 10th.
Lingering species reported during the past week included: BARN SWALLOW,
NORTHERN HOUSEWREN, NORTHERN PARULA, MAGNOLIA WARBLER, BLACKBURNIAN
WARBLER, BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. NORTHERN YELLOW WARBLER, BLACK-AND-WHITE
WARBLER, TENNESSEE WARBLER, CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER, PRAIRIE WARBLER,
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE, OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, RED-EYED
VIREO, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, SCARLET TANAGER, VEERY, and WOOD THRUSH.
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Will Kirby found a incredibly interesting looking, melanistic Semipalmated Plover down at Ragged Neck in Rye the other day, and it has been seen on and off since then. Several of us on the NH Pelagic stopped by to get looks at this unique shorebird after we came back to harbor: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401837437
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Matt Tarr, Mike Gebo, Nathan French, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 326 visitors from near and far, including Denmark. Hello to Colin and Jess!
Weather: Partly cloudy at first, with fog low in the valley, but then the fog rose up and socked us in for a couple hours. Afterwards it was mostly cloudy, becoming mostly sunny in the afternoon. Temps started at 46 and increased to 57 degrees. Winds from the northwest.
Raptor Observations: The birds started moving in earnest as soon as the fog cleared away around 11:45am. There was a nice showing of Merlins, Ospreys, and harriers today. One Merlin snagged a Monarch but promptly released it unharmed. The last bird of the day was a beautiful adult sharpie taking a close look at Gina.
Non-raptor Observations: Nearly fifty ravens played in the wind above North Pack. A Ruby-crowned Kinglet hopped about in the trees nearby, and several insects enjoyed the warm weather including a friendly katydid, a distant dragonfly, and two Monarchs.
Monarchs: 2/843
Predictions: Rain showers tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/12/26 7:09 am From: Gail Coffey <gcoffeywriter...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rodenticides and Raptors
For those not aware, rodenticides are poisoning an increasing number of raptors--many are not surviving. Wings of Dawn Rehabilitation Center in Henniker recently treated 2 Red-tailed Hawks with severe rodenticide poisoning -both died. In 2025, Wings of Dawn, had 68 animals treated for rodenticide poisoning including: 14 Barred Owls, 40 hawks of varied species and 4 Bald Eagles, Of the 68 animals- only 5 survived. So this is a major ecological problem in NH and around the country.
A group of wildlife conservationists, naturalists and biologists formed Rodenticide Free NH. Our mission is to educate people/businesses about the ecological impacts of rodenticides and the non-toxic rodent control options. Pest companies promote rodenticides over non-toxic methods because it is easier and they make more money on monthly contracts.. The number of bait boxes with rodenticides has proliferated.
Please get the message out to those using rodenticides and you can refer them to our website for more information. Thank you.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers:
Visitors: 402. Lots of good conversations with interested visitors.
Weather: Cloudy and dreary. Drizzled for an hour during 11 o'clock. Gentle breeze from the SSW. Temps in the mid to upper forties. Rain showers started again at 4pm.
Raptor Observations: Not many raptors on the move. A "gray ghost" adult male harrier was the highlight.
Non-raptor Observations: Only one flock of Canada Geese after yesterday's eighty or so. Nice movement of yellow-rumps, with thirty-five coming by in twos and threes. Three Tennessee Warblers stopped in briefly to forage in the spruces.
Predictions: Better weather tomorrow with light northwest winds and slightly warmer temps. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 12 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Katrina Fenton
Observers: Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Katrina Fenton, Levi Burford, Mark Timmerman, Mike Gebo, Nathan French, Nora Hanke, with many more...
Visitors: 455.
Weather: Happy World Migratory Bird Day! It was a beautiful fall day on the mountain with excellent visibility. Light winds from the NW/WNW. Temps ranged from 36 to 49 degrees. High thin clouds steadily increased throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Nice day for raptors with ten species on the move, including a bunch of sharpies, a nice push of kestrels, and a handful of Turkey Vultures. Shoutout to Levi and Katrina for putting in twelve hours for the Big Sit. They spotted a sharpie as the first migrant at 6:45am.
Non-raptor Observations: Great Canada Goose day! Many skeins came by throughout the day, resulting in a grand total of 3,175 geese. Overall, we had thirty bird species during our Big Sit. You can view the eBird checklist here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401112586
Monarchs: 2/841
Predictions: Cloudy tomorrow with light south winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/10/26 12:00 pm From: jeepinmoabgirl <jeepingmoabgirl...> Subject: [NHBirds] Hundreds of Canadian geese on the Connecticut River between Edgewater farms and Mac's maple
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Nikko Gagnon
Visitors: 332 including a couple school groups.
Weather: Partly sunny with strong west winds. Temps ranged from low forties to low fifties. Snowy Mt. Washington visible at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Most of the raptors were flying low today. Highlights included an immature goshawk cruising by, a female harrier flying with a raven, and a few falcons coming by close.
Non-raptor Observations: Ravens had fun in the wind. Chickadees and juncos enjoyed some birdseed, and a Tufted Titmouse and White-breasted Nuthatch flew by. Insect sightings included one hardy Autumn Meadowhawk.
Predictions: Weather looks great tomorrow with light winds from the northwest. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Nikko Gagnon, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 163. Thanks to everyone who joined us spotting birds, and hello to Scott Hecker!
Weather: Dense fog in the morning gave way to partly sunny skies. Persistent winds, mostly from the west. Temps ranging from 46 to 55 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Another great day for Peregrines. Some would play with the ravens over North Pack before carrying on again. One Osprey came by every hour starting at 11 o'clock. Other migrants included a handful of Cooper's Hawks, a few sharpies, two red-shoulders, two juvenile harriers, one Bald Eagle, and one Merlin.
Non-raptor Observations: Along with the raptors, we saw a couple flocks of geese and the usual songbirds, including two Ruby-crowned Kinglets. An exciting non-bird highlight was a weasel chasing a chipmunk around near the picnic tables.
Monarchs: 2/839
Predictions: Similar weather tomorrow, with more west winds and sunshine. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/8/26 1:36 pm From: Jane Rice <moultnews...> Subject: [NHBirds] Birding Cuba program
Lakes Region birders, mark your calendars for next Thursday. October 15, so that you can plan to attend a program on birding in Cuba, presented by Charlie Nims. 7 pm at the Loon Center, 183 Lee's Mills Road in Moultonborough.
There is a brief description of the program on the chapter website at nhaudubonlakes.com. When I was creating the poster I got so involved with wrestling with the computer that I neglected to include Charlie's name, so just wanted everyone to be aware of who is presenting this exciting program. Hope we have a great turnout.
Date: 10/8/26 11:19 am From: 'Ducky Darrick' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] *** NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 PM Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory***
Lol I assume this is not the Phil Brown from the Dave Mallett song
On Thu, Oct 8, 2026, 1:02 PM bikenbird via NHBirds <nhbirds...>
wrote:
> New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
>
> Please note the following:
> * Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs)
> for any changes that may impact the in person program.
> * There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in
> refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you!
>
> Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 pm Program: *Migratory Raptors of Pack
> Monadnock Raptor Observatory*
> (note: This is a program change from the published program in the
> Summer/Fall 2026 Newsletter)
>
> Join Harris Center bird conservation director and raptor aficionado
> Phil Brown for an overview of the hawk migration season through the lens of
> the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory in Peterborough, which has been
> tallying migrating raptors for over twenty years. Learn identification
> tips, life histories, conservation trends, and migration strategies for the
> fifteen or so raptor species that pass over NH's airspace each fall, and
> hear about research and conservation initiatives to protect them. You'll be
> well prepared for hawk migration after this informative and photo-filled
> session!
>
> *Bio:* Phil Brown grew up in New York City and developed a deep
> interest in the natural world, particularly birds, at a young age. In and
> after undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, he pursued a career in
> conservation stewardship, initially in urban settings. In 2004, he took to
> the wilder woodlands of New Hampshire, where he served as NH Audubon's
> Director of Land Management stewarding wildlife sanctuaries, a position he
> held for 17 years. This formative experience helped him shape a career that
> today blends conservation, stewardship, and education.
> Phil's path first crossed with the Harris Center during his time as a
> graduate student at Antioch University New England in 2007 and, as a new
> Monadnock Region resident, he began to get involved leading field trips.
> Phil made the move to the Harris Center in 2021 as the organization's first
> Bird Conservation Director. He manages a variety of conservation projects
> focused on American Kestrel conservation, Broad-winged Hawk ecology,
> Northern Saw-whet Owl banding, and other focal species of conservation
> concern. Perhaps most central to his Harris Center work is the coordination
> of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory, an effort he has led for both NH
> Audubon and the Harris Center for over 15 years.
> In addition, Phil is a frequent field trip leader for the Harris Center,
> the Hawk Migration Association, and other organizations. He leads immersive
> bird and nature-based journeys in Costa Rica several times a year for The
> Dreamcatchers and, under this outfit, recently co-authored his first book,
> MicroExploring the SuperSanctuary, which brings a new philosophy to
> exploring places close to home, connecting people to nature in a deeper way
> (see May 2027 program). Phil lives in Hancock with his family, where he can
> be found in a variety of outdoor pursuits in all seasons.
>
>
> All are welcome to attend our Wednesday October 14, 2026 program which
> is free of charge at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible),
> Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/570+Ocean+Boulevard,+Rye+NH?entry=gmail&source=g> (click
> here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center)
> <https://goo.gl/maps/1m696k57bFvv7Yxn6> There will be refreshments
> starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked
> at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on
> http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
>
> Thank You! Dunkin’ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH
> (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit
> the location mention a thank you!
>
> Al Stewart, Jr.
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
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> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<1579730339.1402477.1791478938770...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<1579730339.1402477.1791478938770...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
Date: 10/8/26 10:02 am From: bikenbird via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] *** NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 PM Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory***
New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
Please note the following:
* Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs) for any changes that may impact the in person program.
* There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you!
Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 pm Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory (note: This is a program change from the published program in the Summer/Fall 2026 Newsletter)
Join Harris Center bird conservation director and raptor aficionado Phil Brown for an overview of the hawk migration season through the lens of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory in Peterborough, which has been tallying migrating raptors for over twenty years. Learn identification tips, life histories, conservation trends, and migration strategies for the fifteen or so raptor species that pass over NH's airspace each fall, and hear about research and conservation initiatives to protect them. You'll be well prepared for hawk migration after this informative and photo-filled session!
Bio: Phil Brown grew up in New York City and developed a deep interest in the natural world, particularly birds, at a young age. In and after undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, he pursued a career in conservation stewardship, initially in urban settings. In 2004, he took to the wilder woodlands of New Hampshire, where he served as NH Audubon's Director of Land Management stewarding wildlife sanctuaries, a position he held for 17 years. This formative experience helped him shape a career that today blends conservation, stewardship, and education.Phil's path first crossed with the Harris Center during his time as a graduate student at Antioch University New England in 2007 and, as a new Monadnock Region resident, he began to get involved leading field trips. Phil made the move to the Harris Center in 2021 as the organization's first Bird Conservation Director. He manages a variety of conservation projects focused on American Kestrel conservation, Broad-winged Hawk ecology, Northern Saw-whet Owl banding, and other focal species of conservation concern. Perhaps most central to his Harris Center work is the coordination of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory, an effort he has led for both NH Audubon and the Harris Center for over 15 years.In addition, Phil is a frequent field trip leader for the Harris Center, the Hawk Migration Association, and other organizations. He leads immersive bird and nature-based journeys in Costa Rica several times a year for The Dreamcatchers and, under this outfit, recently co-authored his first book, MicroExploring the SuperSanctuary, which brings a new philosophy to exploring places close to home, connecting people to nature in a deeper way (see May 2027 program). Phil lives in Hancock with his family, where he can be found in a variety of outdoor pursuits in all seasons.
All are welcome to attend our Wednesday October 14, 2026 program which is free of charge at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible), Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH (click here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center) There will be refreshments starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
Thank You! Dunkin’ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit the location mention a thank you!
Date: 10/8/26 3:30 am From: David Govatski <david.govatski...> Subject: [NHBirds] Pondicherry Big Sit Birding Day on Saturday 10 October
The 20th Annual Pondicherry Big Sit Birding Event is this Saturday 10 October 2026 at the Tudor Richard Platform at Cherry Pond in Jefferson. The event runs from sunrise to sunset where we count all the bird species seen or heard from the platform. We will keep two lists, one for just the Big Sit area and a second list for the rest of the Pondicherry National Wildlife Refuge in Jefferson and Whitefield for World Migratory Bird Day that coincides with the Big Sit. The platform is a 1.5 mile walk or bicycle ride in from the trailhead at 289 Airport Road in Whitefield. The Autumn foliage is still spectacular.
For more information or to sign up for the free event contact organizer David Govatski at <David.Govatski...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nate Marchessault
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Nora Hanke, Robin Feustel, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 122. During the quiet times between birds, lots of great conversation with visitors from both near and far!
Weather: Sunny skies with temps beginning chilly and gradually rising to a pleasant fall day. Winds out of the southwest all day with a slight breeze.
Raptor Observations: It was a trickle of birds today, somewhat expected for the weather conditions. First birds snuck in just before noon, with a handful of birds each hour after that. Peregrines were moving in decent numbers, with one that appears it might roost on the rocks at North Pack overnight. A few late broad-wings were a nice treat, too.
Non-raptor Observations: The empty early morning skies were periodically broken by flocks of geese. One Snow Goose was observed moving within a large flock of Canada Geese. Other than that, the usual suspects for birds around the watch; a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, juncos, and White-throated sparrows. A diminutive ladies' tresses orchid was in bloom along the path to the hawkwatch. Keep your eyes open for it if you visit!
Monarchs: 1/837 Blue Jays: 0 Geese: 197
Predictions: Winds shift to the west tomorrow, with a slight northerly component. If there is a bit more of a northerly component than forecasted, it could be a good day, but either way some birds should be on the move so long as it's not raining. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Julie Brown, Phil Brown
Observers: Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Julie Brown, Phil Brown, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 156 in total; lots of hawk watch friends and general visitors for a Tuesday, but what a spectacular day to enjoy the views! 11 students and associated chaperones from Country Village Montessouri School in Amherst NH came out to learn about migration and had some great answers and questions. Thanks to Justin from MA for spotting birds with us in the am, and welcome, Maureen and Bill from Hanover NH. Great to see Jon, Cheryl, Tom, Seth, and Adria. Big thanks to David W for keeping watch in the 8 am hour.
Weather: Moderate winds from the WNW all day, and blue skies with cloud cover limited to a sliver of horizon in northern NH. Cool with temps starting at 34 F and topping out at just 46 F. Snow cover spotted on Mount Lafayette later in the day!
Raptor Observations: Low numbers overall, but nice diversity, with all regular accips and falcons observed migrating. Many birds were far today and stayed below horizon with the strong winds out of the west. However, a few standouts today included two close peregrines near the end of the day (one trying to eat a butterfly), a merlin zipping by Gina the plastic owl, two early harriers migrating together, and a fairly close osprey following the path one took hours earlier before 9 am.
Non-raptor Observations: The raven show was in full effect for the many visitors who came to watch hawks and peep leaves. Low numbers of passerines today, with pine siskins (5) being the highlight. Monarchs: 6/836 Blue Jays: 3
Predictions: Winds from the SW seem a little less promising on paper, but if wind isn't too strong, it's worth a visit. Even if not, come to see the foliage and visit with Nate! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Jim McCoy
Visitors: 118. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat with us even though it was cold, and shoutout to Chuck for volunteering in the wind the whole day.
Weather: Partly sunny with variable cloud cover. Fog rolled by in the morning, obscuring visibility at times. Temps ranged from 44 to 53 degrees. Stiff winds, mostly from the west. Wind speed often near 20 mph, sometimes closer to 15 mph, and occasionally reaching 30 mph.
Raptor Observations: Nice diversity of raptors again with representatives from eleven species trickling by throughout the day. Peregrines won the prize for the highest number today (six). Cooper's Hawks tied with sharpies for the first time this season (four each). An immature goshawk flew by shortly after 1pm, pausing briefly to ride the winds with a raven. Non-migrants included six Turkey Vultures, two Bald Eagles, two red-tails, and two Merlins.
The one unidentified raptor today was an interesting bird. First spotted near the Camel Humps, it flew behind North Pack and circled once above the Lyndeboroughs, revealing a clean white belly, before disappearing again towards the southeast. A very distant bird, it had long wings and was flapping like a harrier or gull. It was also reminiscent of an Osprey but seemed too brown on top. Oh well. It was probably just a Swainson's Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Song Sparrow mixed in with the juncos and white-throats. Eastern Phoebe made a brief appearance, and a beautiful Black-throated Green Warbler foraged in the spruce trees. Eighteen ravens enjoyed playing in the wind all across the sky.
Monarchs: 4/830
Predictions: Sunshine and northwest winds tomorrow. It will be even colder than today, hopefully encouraging more birds to migrate. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/5/26 1:55 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, October 5, 2026,
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for October 5, 2026.
6 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, 2 ATLANTIC PUFFINS, and a COMMON MURRE were seen
by birders on a boat out of Hampton on September 30th.
A CORY’S SHHEARWATER, 5 LEACH’S STORM-PETRELS and 70 WILSON’S STORM-PETRELS
were seen in offshore waters between the Isles of Shoals and Old Scantum on
September 30th.
2 LITTLE GULLS were seen at Peirce Island in Portsmouth on October 3rd, and
1 was seen between the Isles of Shoals and Old Scantum on September 30th.
A COMMON TERN was seen from Great Island Common in New Castle on October 1st.
3 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals during the past
week.
A SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER was seen at Tullando Farm in Orford on September 28
th.
A GREAT CORMORANT was seen at Crescent Lake in Wolfeboro on October 3rd.
A GREAT EGRET was seen in Woodsville on September 29th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen at the Contoocook Cemetery on September 29th.
A BLUE GROSBEAK was seen in Hampton Harbor on September 30th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT seen on private
property in Manchester on October 4th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a CONNECTICUT WARBLER from Rye Harbor
State Park on October 2nd and 4th.
A MOURNING WARBLER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on October 4th.
A LARK SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on October 2nd, and there was
an unconfirmed report of 1 from Wilson Hill Road in New Boston on October 1
st.
A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 30th, and
1 was seen at Woodridge Park in Durham on October 1st.
There was an unconfirmed report of 5 CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS mixed in with a
flock of CHIPPING SPARROWS seen along East Side Road in Sanbornville on
October 1st.
A GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was seen along Arboretum Drive across from Pease
International Tradeport in Newington on September 30th.
2 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye during the past week.
A CHIMNEY SWIFT was seen at Pack Monadnock on October 3rd. Getting late!
A few lingering RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRDS were reported during the past
week.
A flock of 9 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS was seen flying overhead in Portsmouth on
September 28th, and single birds were reported from Concord, New Castle,
and Rye on September 29th.
A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was reported from Second College Grant on September
30th. A BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO was seen in Twin Mountain on September 28th,
and 1 was seen in Dixville on October 30th. Getting late!
Lingering species reported during the past week included: BLACKBURNIAN
WARBLER, BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. NORTHERN YELLOW WARBLER, BLACK-AND-WHITE
WARBLER, TENNESSEE WARBLER, CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER, EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE,
GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER, EASTERN WARBLING VIREO, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER,
TREE SWALLOW, MARSH WREN, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, VEERYS, and WOOD THRUSHES.
Species reported from birders visiting Star Island, one of the Isles of
Shoals, during the past week included:
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
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Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson
Visitors: 403 including Gayle from the Braddock Bay Hawkwatch.
Weather: Cool, cloudy Autumn day. Mix of low clouds and high cirrus clouds. Temps ranging from low forties to low fifties. Light wind starting from the east and gradually shifting to the south. Summit covered in fog for the first hour.
Raptor Observations: A couple kettles of Turkey Vultures boosted today's count to over 100 birds. The first bird was a kestrel flying through the fog shortly after 9am. There were several close birds today, including some beautiful adult sharpies, Cooper's Hawks, and Red-shouldered Hawks. Two peregrines flying along over North Pack during 3 o'clock were the last birds of the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Nice assortment of songbirds around including an Ovenbird, Winter Wren, robin, and three pipits. A bunny made an appearance at the birdseed, and a katydid perched on rocks near the platform. Yesterday, a katydid made friends with Gina, sitting between her ears and chatting for some time.
Monarchs: 7/826
Predictions: Sunny and windy tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 16:15:00 Total observation time: 10.25 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Nate Marchessault
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Mark Timmerman, Meade Cadot, Mike Gebo, Nate Marchessault, Nora Hanke, Tom Warren, Van Zimmer, with many more...
Visitors: 353. Lots of folks enjoying the beautiful fall colors. Thanks to David, Brian and Pat, and many others for spotting birds with us.
Weather: Blue skies and sunshine with light wind from the N/NW. Temps ranging from 44 to 56 degrees. Visibility all the way to Mt. Washington.
Raptor Observations: Excellent early October day with twelve different species on the move. Lots of sharpies today, along with a few broad-wings and a handful of falcons. A couple Merlins posed for pictures on the spruces near the hawkwatch at the end of the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Nice mix of other birds too, including flocks of Canada Geese, a late Chimney Swift, two late Tree Swallows, a flyby Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and twenty Yellow-rumped Warblers. A few Monarchs on the wing.
Monarchs: 4/819 Blue Jays: 30/259
Predictions: Cloudier tomorrow with winds shifting between the east and south. Probably less birds than today but there should still be some flying. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: Busy, 57. One nice lady, upon learning that I was hawk watching, asked me if I was from the Harris Center. "No," I answered, "but I know Phil Brown." "I do too," she answered. "How many times have you been to Costa Rica?" I asked. "Only once, but", she gushed, "my next trip I'm going to Ireland with Eric Masterson!"
Weather: A cloudless sky all day; light W winds turning NW by 9:30 then calm at 2:00; warm, 54 - 71 F.
Raptor Observations: A falcon trifecta day. Still more American Kestrels, last week a new season high count was reached, a Peregrine worked hard past Mt Major, plus a Merlin for good measure. Of the 14 Turkey Vultures present, 4 were good migrants. Sharp-shins showed most hours.
Non-raptor Observations: First White-throated Sparrows of the season, a flock of Canada Geese southbound, bluebirds, siskin, and 49 Yellow-rumped Warblers. 1 Monarch.
Predictions: And this just in: the Forest Society is going to conduct a controlled burn at the Morse Preserve next week that could shut me down for a few days. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Date: 10/3/26 2:47 pm From: 'Steve Mirick' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Coastal Field Trip for Seacoast Audubon (Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Dickcissels, and 10 species of warblers)
Jane and I, assisted by Ashton Almeida and Holly Bauer, led a bird walk
today for the Seacoast Chapter of NH Audubon.
Most of the trip was spent on a long walk around Odiorne Point State
Park, but we offered a trip extension to Goss Farm in Rye. The weather
was sunny, calm, and seasonal with a bit of a seabreeze toward the end.
Like last year, there were very few migrating birds except for a couple
of Common Loons, a couple of hawks and a couple of small flocks of
migrating cormorants. Odiorne Point State Park was kind of slow for
migrants, but there some and we managed to dig out a decent variety!
Highlights were the Yellow-billed Cuckoos and the small numbers of
warblers and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. Highlights at Goss Farm were the
continuing Dickcissels, a beautiful Bobolink, and a fantastic group of 4
Rusty Blackbirds!
I also had singing phoebes in my yard in Bradford for a couple of days
earlier this week.
On Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 8:00:26 PM UTC-4 Susan wrote:
> I heard an Eastern Phoebe calling this morning on my early walk about
> 7:30. I haven’t heard one in my neighborhood since spring when I assume the
> birds were migrating through.
> Susan Hunter, Bedford
