Observation start time: 05:00:00
Observation end time: 19:00:00
Total observation time: 14 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Brad Carlson, Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Janis George,
Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay, Pat Martin, Peter Burns,
Robin Morey, Roger Clark
Visitors:
15
Weather:
Southwest winds overnight lasted most of the morning, turning west in the
afternoon and then back to Southwest in the evening. The winds were 10 to
15mph in the morning increasing mid afternoon to 20-25mph, then dropping
back down to 15 to 20 miles an hour in the evening. Temperatures range from
68F to 87F. Clouds in the morning gradually cleared giving away to mostly
sunny skies in the afternoon and evening.
Raptor Observations:
Today was another good day for raptor migration thanks to the southwest
winds. We had a total of 936 birds. Broad-winged Hawks (410) and Turkey
Vultures (375) were the most numerous raptors. There are a few other
species mixed in including 17 Osprey, 13 Northern Harriers, and 8
Sharp-shinned Hawks. All three species of falcon were seen, including 3
Peregrines, 6 American Kestrels, and 2 Merlins. It was also a great day for
Bald Eagles with a total of 93, our best Bald Eagle day tally so far this
season!
Non-raptor Observations:
Overall, today was a great day of birding at the platform! Over the course
of 15 hours, I tally the total of 109 species of bird! Highlights include 2
Glossy Ibis, 3 Forester�s Terns, a Snowy Egret, and 2 American White
Pelicans. There is also a good movement of shorebirds throughout the day,
including 82 Least Sandpipers, 8 Dunlin, 4 Black-bellied Plover, and 8
Semipalmated Plover. In the evening there was a large movement of Common
Nighthawks, with at least 356 birds seen!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:15:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 2.25 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers:
Weather: Warm, SW winds, 50% cloud cover. Great worrying about sunburn rather than frostbite.
Raptor Observations: A bad day at the hawk count is better than a good day at work. It was hard focusing on gardening when the possibility of missing some raptor migration lingered. Very little moving under ideal conditions. Those closest to the bump and grind of staffing the count agree the 2026 season has come to a close in Ripley.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: We are closing the Ripley Hawk Watch for 2026. Thanks to all who made it a success.
We are still in a transitional mode at RHW from the days when Lenny & John or Gil & Jan did the entire count themselves to one of multiple volunteers trying to communicate and collaborate to ensure coverage and accuracy. It has been a taxing and challenging year. We continue recruiting are grooming a couple new volunteers who are promising and seem to "get it" but we realize the ethos of the hawk count is not easily trainable and several years of participation are needed before "new" volunteers can oversee the count. We lack a large metropolitan population to draw from and research universities to partner with. I'm hopeful that we will find young, enthusiastic raptor enthusiasts who can resist the temptation to chase the latest rare-bird alert for the more nuanced challenge of interpreting confusing weather patterns and finding the flight path, if one exists.
In the mean time, we intend to soldier through 2027 as best as possible but it will most likely be a part-time count. This is discouraging because we know by our numbers that Riply is one of the more important Spring hawk counts. Anyone out there with raptor chops looking to spend a week on the beautiful Chautauqua Ridge overlooking vineyards, Lake Erie and our friendly neighbors to the north, please get in touch! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 18:00:00 Total observation time: 13 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Brad Carlson, Bridget Watts, Cliff Dekdebrun, Daena Ford, Dan Niven, Mike Tetlow, Robin Morey, Roger Clark, Rosemary Reilly
Visitors: 20
Weather: The early morning was warm and humid with temps in the high 60s, SW winds at 10-15mph, and mostly clear skies. The SW winds increased to 15-20mph with some stronger gusts, and then diminished again by the evening. Temps reached a high of 89F, so much of the count was conducted from the shade of the big hickory tree. There were only a few scattered puffy clouds in the middle of the day.
Raptor Observations: We enjoyed a great flight of young Broad-winged Hawks today, with 1348 individuals. Turkey Vultures were also abundant, with 931. Bald Eagles (79) and Northern Harriers (29) continue to put on a good show, and we had our highest daily total of Osprey (26) for the season. Most of the birds were moving along the lakeshore and right over the platform, although lots were pretty high.
Non-raptor Observations: There were several surprises today, starting with two Glossy Ibis flying southeast in the morning! There were lots of other wading birds moving today, with plenty of Green Herons and Great Blues, plus a single Cattle Egret that flew down the lakeshore. A late female Ring-necked Duck was seen in the bay, and two stunning Red-headed Woodpeckers flew along the parkway. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 5/17/26 8:08 pm From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk at Montezuma Refuge this Saturday 5/23/26
Hope you can join us. And bring a friend. See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 06:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Luke Seitz, Mitch Barry, Shelly Rackovsky
Visitors:
6
Weather:
Sunny skies all day with only a few high wispy clouds. Winds started as WSW
at 10-15mph. As the day progressed there was a fight between the west winds
and a NE lake breeze. The NE lake breeze eventually won. Temps ranged from
59 to 78 over the course of the day depending on the strength of the lake
breeze.
Raptor Observations:
Just over 300 raptors were seen today. Turkey Vultures (132) and
Broad-winged Hawks (121) were the dominant species. There were a handful of
other species including 22 Bald Eagles, 13 Red-tailed Hawks, and 9
Sharp-shinned Hawks. All three species of falcon were seen today thanks to
a late in the day Peregrine.
Non-raptor Observations:
There was not much of a songbird morning flight, even though last night had
decent migration. Several species of shorebird were seen flying over
including 14 Least Sandpipers, 6 Dunlin, and 3 Black-bellied Plovers. There
were several Common Terns feeding over the bay throughout the day with a
Forster�s Tern joining them at times. The highlight of the day was a male
Eurasian Wigeon that flew in and landed in the bay for a few minutes before
getting spooked by a boat!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 05:00:00
Observation end time: 14:00:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Brad Carlson, Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Greg Sanda,
Kevin Ebert , Luke Seitz, Mike Tetlow, Mitch Barry,
Randy Ford, Shannon Sanda, Vid Killius
Visitors:
15
Weather:
Mostly sunny all morning with SW winds at 10-15mph and temps in the 50s.
Cloud cover varied throughout the day, but it eventually completely clouded
over just before the rain. Temps reached a high of 78F. Winds were SW all
day at 10-20mph. A thunderstorm hit right at 3pm shutting down the flight.
Raptor Observations:
1,205 raptors passed over Braddock Bay today! Broad-winged Hawks (623),
Turkey Vultures (398), and Bald Eagles (80) were the most abundant species.
Sharp-shinned Hawks numbers are slowing down with only 41 on the move
today. We had two species of falcon: 3 American Kestrels and 2 Peregrine
Falcons. The highlight of the day was an adult Mississippi Kite seen
briefly around 8:30am!!
Non-raptor Observations:
Lots of birds were on the move last night with a few new species for the
year arriving. There was a Willow Flycatcher singing all morning, an
Eastern Wood-Pewee flew by in the limited morning flight, and Lincoln�s
Sparrows were foraging along the hedgerows. While there wasn�t a big
morning flight of warblers, there were a decent number of American Pipits,
Baltimore Orioles, and Indigo Buntings flying over.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson, Michael Ceci
Observers: Andy Dickson, Mike Ceci
Visitors: None
Weather: We were welcomed with SSW winds that continued until 1:00 PM, when the wind shifted west with incoming rain. At 1:30, rain began. Temperatures remained in the mid 70's for the majority of today's count.
Raptor Observations: Decent numbers of birds and a variety of species during today's count. Approximately 1/2 of the 191 BW's were immature. During the 12:00 - 1:00 hour, there were kettles consisting of 15-25 BW's. Within today's mix, there were 24 Bald Eagles, 9 Ospreys, 2 Northern Harriers, 1 AK, 4 RT's, and 7 acceptors. The 147 TV's were steady throughout the count. By 12:30, weather radar showed incoming rain from Erie. As anticipated, the rain began @ 1:30. The last birds were sighted between 1:00 - 1:30. Today's count concluded @ 1:30 PM.
Non-raptor Observations: Local Bald Eagles, Red Tails and TV's.
Predictions: The weather forecast for Sunday, 05/17/2026: Areas of patchy fog and cloudy skies early in the morning. Clouds will increase later in the day. High temperatures will be in the low 70's. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Unlikely that we'll duplicate today's successful count. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 5/15/26 10:15 pm From: 'Dan Young' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: Re: [GeneseeBirds-L] Braddock Bay (15 May 2026) 169 Raptors
if somebody wishes to elaborate to me, a casual visitor, the details of the reputed swallow tail kite sighting I would be most grateful.
I live similarly positioned as your Braddock's watch, on the lake some sixty miles east at Chimney Bluffs and East Bay and would likely tumble off the bluffs where I to catch sight of a Swallow tail Kite.
Dan
| Observation start time: | 07:00:00 |
| Observation end time: | 15:00:00 |
| Total observation time: | 8 hours |
| Official Counter | Maili Waters |
| Observers: | Bridget Watts, Vid Killius |
Visitors:
4
Weather:
Nearly cloudless skies to start, slowly clouding over to become mostlycloudy in the afternoon. temps in the low 50s to start reaching a high of68F. West winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations:
A relatively slow day for raptors, however it was a beautiful day to be outon the platform! There were a total of 169 raptors today which officiallyputs us over 80,000 birds for the season! There are two more weeks left,let�s see how many more we can find! Turkey Vultures (118) and Broad-wingedHawks (27) were the most numerous species today. A handful of other specieswere seen including 9 Bald Eagles, 5 Osprey, and 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks.There were also two different Peregrine Falcons that passed over!
Non-raptor Observations:
Nothing too out of the ordinary was seen today. There were a few warblerspecies by the parking lot including Palm and Nashville. Half a dozenCaspian Terns were foraging over the bay.
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/ More information at hawkcount.org: [Site Profile] [Day Summary] [Month Summary]
Count data submitted via Trektellen.org - [Project Details]
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Vid Killius
Visitors:
4
Weather:
Nearly cloudless skies to start, slowly clouding over to become mostly
cloudy in the afternoon. temps in the low 50s to start reaching a high of
68F. West winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations:
A relatively slow day for raptors, however it was a beautiful day to be out
on the platform! There were a total of 169 raptors today which officially
puts us over 80,000 birds for the season! There are two more weeks left,
let�s see how many more we can find! Turkey Vultures (118) and Broad-winged
Hawks (27) were the most numerous species today. A handful of other species
were seen including 9 Bald Eagles, 5 Osprey, and 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks.
There were also two different Peregrine Falcons that passed over!
Non-raptor Observations:
Nothing too out of the ordinary was seen today. There were a few warbler
species by the parking lot including Palm and Nashville. Half a dozen
Caspian Terns were foraging over the bay.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: no visitors
Weather: Yesterday's cold & drizzle finally departed, leaving a mix of sun & thin clouds. Temps were high 50s with 62 for the last hour. The wind was brisk and steady from the west which put the kibosh on seeing a flight for the final day of dedicated watch coverage.
Raptor Observations: 2 turkey vultures and 1 sharp-shinned hawk was all that moved past. Local TVs and a local red-tail made appearances.
Non-raptor Observations: Nothing of note.
Predictions: There will still be raptors migrating after today (especially the juvenile broad-winged hawk movement) when winds are more favorable (southerly) and temps improve enough to generate some thermal updraft. As mentioned in the Weather comments this is the final day of dedicated coverage. Thanks to all of this season's counters! Bye for now! -Jim Landau ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Date: 5/15/26 12:16 pm From: ROBERT SPAHN <rspahn...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Spring finally popping - Webster Park
Sue and I have finally managed some more time out catching up here after some travels.
Today's walk in Webster Park finally resulted in some fun with the Barred owls there and a number of singing Winter Wrens. Fun to get out even late AM when the sun is out and there is some activity.
Bird List:Webster - Webster Park - Campground Rd., Monroe, New York, US
Bob & Sue Spahn, <rspahn...> 15, 2026 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: Sue and I were out mainly for a walk from the start of the RV loop to the flag pole area with picnic table for a sit half way. Distance is one way, though new birds added on the walk back to the car. At the table in flag pole are, I did some Barred Owl imitation. Upset birds in woods to SE indicated owl approach, but only after long quiet period, one started to call right above us, then two others called back to NE and NW of us. On way back to car one flew over the road and sat where we could see it. The calls plus other spishing did stir up at least a few birds. Generally pretty quiet.
26 species
Barred Owl 3 See trip notes. Called in one, and when it started to call, two more called back from different direction NE and NW of us and the initial bird. All calling at one time. Not a big surprise; they have nested here for years.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 1
Eastern Wood-Pewee 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Blue Jay 3
American Crow 5
Black-capped Chickadee 3
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Red-breasted Nuthatch 3
Winter Wren 4
Gray Catbird 3
Eastern Bluebird 2
Veery 2
Wood Thrush 1
American Robin 11
American Goldfinch 6
Chipping Sparrow 3
Baltimore Oriole 1
Common Grackle 2
Nashville Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 3
Webster NW - Webster Park - Campground Rd., Monroe, New York, US
May 15, 2026 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM
Protocol: Traveling
0.25 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: Sue and I were out mainly for a walk from the start of the RV loop to the flag pole area with picnic table for a sit half way. Distance is one way, though new birds added on the walk back to the car. At the table in flag pole are, I did some Barred Owl imitation. Upset birds in woods to SE indicated owl approach, but only after long quiet period, one started to call right above us, then two others called back to NE and NW of us. On way back to car one flew over the road and sat where we could see it. The calls plus other spishing did stir up at least a few birds. Generally pretty quiet.
26 species
Barred Owl 3 See trip notes. Called in one, and when it started to call, two more called back from different direction NE and NW of us and the initial bird. All calling at one time. Not a big surprise; they have nested here for years.
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 1
Eastern Wood-Pewee 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Blue Jay 3
American Crow 5
Black-capped Chickadee 3
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Red-breasted Nuthatch 3
Winter Wren 4
Gray Catbird 3
Eastern Bluebird 2
Veery 2
Wood Thrush 1
American Robin 11
American Goldfinch 6
Chipping Sparrow 3
Baltimore Oriole 1
Common Grackle 2
Nashville Warbler 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 3
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers: Carol Hardenburg
Visitors: Carol Hardenburg stopped by Site # 2 and assisted from 11:00 - 11:30
Weather: Temperature remained in the mid '50's with a mild WNW wind. 50% cloud cover. Beautiful views of the Lake Erie south shoreline, continuation of blossoms in the Concord Grape Vineyards, increasing spring colors on the escarpment made for a pleasant spring morning.
Raptor Observations: Minimal migration today with 35 TV's, 2 BW's, and 1 SS. Low number of raptors may signify that the spring migration at the Ripley Hawk Watch is concluding.
Non-raptor Observations: None
Predictions: A favorable forecast for Saturday, 05/16/2026 - Partly cloudy in the morning. Thunderstorms developing later in the day. Much warmer. High around 70F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Depending on what's remaining in the pipeline, a late spring flight could emerge. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Visitors: 0
Weather: Today was very gloomy with scattered rain showers and fog throughout the day. Temps were in the 40s and the winds were NW at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations: The count was shortened to only one hour due to the rain and fog. During that hour there were no raptors observed.
Non-raptor Observations: A Nashville Warbler, along with some Yellow-rumps and Palms, were foraging along the hedgerow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 09:15:00 Total observation time: 0.25 hours
Official Counter:
Observers:
Weather: Intermittent rain throughout the area as well as north and south of the hawkwatch. Unfortunately, no count was conducted on this final day of the Hamburg Hawkwatch. See you all next year and have a wonderul summer!
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Sharon Sisti (<sharonsisti...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Mike Tetlow
Visitors:
8
Weather:
Scattered rain overnight lasted until 8:45 AM. As the rain moved out of the
area, it became mostly sunny with south winds at 10-20mph and temps in the
50s. In the early afternoon it began clouding over again. Temps reached a
high 66F and the winds shifted to SW at 15-20mph. Around 2:30 some rain
passed over briefly along with the cold front, and winds shifted W, which
shut down the raptor flight.
Raptor Observations:
Wow! Today was a spectacular day of migration! We had a total of 1177
raptors, but the real spectacle was the songbird movement! Immature
Broad-winged Hawks dominated today�s flight with a total of 802 birds.
Turkey Vultures, Sharp-shinned Hawks and Bald Eagles were also numerous.
The raptor highlights of the day were two Rough-legged Hawks, one of which
came close to the platform providing nice views.
Non-raptor Observations:
As soon as the rain stopped, incredible numbers of passerines started to
move. Immediately there were flocks of Bobolinks, Baltimore Orioles and
Yellow-rumped Warblers going over in large numbers. The diversity within
the flyover warblers was great, with a mix of Cape Mays, Black-throated
Greens, Palms, Yellows, and Tennessees. In total, there were probably
several thousand warblers, a thousand Bololinks, and 800 Baltimore Orioles.
The movement of songbirds lasted all day with dozens of warblers still
flying over in the late afternoon.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: No visitors.
Weather: Multiple cloud layers all day, lower clouds moving fast from the southwest and a few spits of rain. The southwest wind was brisk and chilly. Temps held steady throughout the 4 hours of the watch at 60F (15.5C).
Raptor Observations: A tepid migration flight of 23 Turkey Vultures, 2 Red-tails, 8 Broadwings and 1 Sharp-shin. 1 local Bald Eagle and the odd local Turkey vulture.
Non-raptor Observations: No other birds of note.
Predictions: National Weather Service at 5pm says, "A chance of showers. Cloudy, with a high near 52. Northwest wind around 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%." Sorry, Sharon! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 11:15:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: The temperature, upon arrival, was 64F with SSW winds. With dark clouds over the Lake, rain moved inland along the shoreline @ 11:45. @ 12:15, there was a clearing over the Lake with a brief return of SSW wind, but the temperature dropped to the mid '50's. By 12:45, wind changed to WNW ending the flight. The watch shut down @ 1:15 PM.
Raptor Observations: There were hopeful signs for a flight upon arrival with temperature of 64F and a SSW wind. Flight temporarily shut down when a brief thunderstorm came through the Lake's edge and moved inland. Upon the rain moving inland, a brief flight resumed between Rt 5 and the shoreline. With dropping temperatures and WNW wind, the flight shut-down. The BW's sighted at the start of the watch were adults, giving some hope for BW's in the pipeline.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-stop Blue Jays. The usual appearances of local Bald Eagles, TV's and RT's.
Predictions: Cloudy with showers. Cooler. High around 50F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Wind will change to NNW late morning. There could be a small to moderate flight earlier in the morning with W winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Tim Willis
Weather: Today had clear skies, temps in the 40s, and NE winds at 10-15mph.
Raptor Observations: It was a very quiet day at the hawkwatch. The only birds migrating today were 2 Turkey Vultures, 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, and one Bald Eagle. Fingers crossed that tomorrow will have a few more birds after the rain!
Non-raptor Observations: A Magnolia Warbler was feeding in the trees by the parking lot. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 5/12/26 2:31 pm From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] FW: eBird Report - Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville, New York, US (43.057, -77.724), May 12, 2026
From: <do-not-reply...> <do-not-reply...>
Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 5:30 PM
To: Lynn A. Braband <lab45...>
Subject: eBird Report - Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville, New York, US (43.057, -77.724), May 12, 2026
Genesee Valley Greenway, Scottsville, New York, US (43.057, -77.724), Monroe, New York, US
May 12, 2026 9:57 AM
Protocol: Incidental
1 species
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Mike Tetlow, Shelly Rackovsky
Visitors: 3
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning becoming almost entirely clear in the afternoon. Around 11am there were scattered rain showers all around us, however none actually hit us. Temps in the low 40s to start, reaching a high of 55F. Winds were NW all day starting at 5-10mph and increasing to 10-20mph.
Raptor Observations: Today was a relatively slow day with only 102 raptors migrating over. Almost half were Turkey Vultures, with 28 Broad-winged Hawks, 19 Bald Eagles, and 8 Sharp-shinned Hawks representing the other half. The highlight of the day was an immature Golden Eagle! This individual is the 50th Golden Eagle of the season!
Non-raptor Observations: There were a handful of warblers in the parking lot, including Palm, Yellow-rump, Nashville, Yellow, and a Black-throated Green ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 12:00:00
Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Carl Carbone
Observers: Stephanie Carbone
Visitors:
One older gentleman stopped in his car and asked if we were watching for
eagles. He said he always sees people here. I explained the watch to him
and he thanked me for confirming his suspicion.
Weather:
Partly to mostly sunny. Cool with a light to moderate WNW to NNW breeze. It
was quite chilly, despite being around 55�.
Raptor Observations:
Not a whole lot. 7 Turkey Vultures, 1 Osprey, 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk and 2
adult Bald Eagles heading NE. Two local Red-tailed Hawks, along with 8
local Turkey Vultures, 1 local Broad-winged Hawk and 1 local juvenile
Cooper's.
Predictions:
Tuesday might be a little more favorable ... from the NWS: Patchy frost
before 7am. Otherwise, increasing clouds, with a high near 60. Calm wind
becoming west around 6 mph in the afternoon.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Carl Carbone (<csquared63...>)
Site Description:
This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in
Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline
of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY.
For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Directions to site:
Lakeside Cemetery is located in Hamburg, NY which is about 10 miles
southwest of Buffalo, NY at the Hamburg Exit 57 of the NY State Thruway.
Bear right after the toll booth onto Camp Road (Route 75). Proceed through
the traffic light at Southwestern Blvd.(Route 20). The entrance to Lakeside
Cemetery is on the left, less than 1/4 mile from the light. The watch is
normally conducted half way between the entrance and the woods.
There is currently one alternate location for easterly winds that move the
flight path to the west and closer to the lake shore. That is farther into
Lakeside Cemetery at Section H.
Date: 5/11/26 9:27 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk at the Montezuma Refuge 5/23/26
Last Transformation walk of the season. Then comes "Entangled Lives". Bring a friend! See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Luke Seitz
Visitors: 1
Weather: In the morning the temps started in the upper 40s, winds were from the NW, and the skies were clear. Temps reached a high of 51F, the winds were somewhat strong out of the NW all day, and the sky was very blue making viewing birds difficult.
Raptor Observations: A total of 390 raptors passed overhead today. Broad-winged Hawks (275), Turkey Vultures (64), and Sharp-shinned Hawks (24) were the majority of the flight. A handful of other birds were mixed in, including some Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and Ospreys.
Non-raptor Observations: In the morning, there were a good number of Caspian Terns, Common Terns and gulls flying over the barrier Island and the mouth of the bay. Two Blue-winged Teal were in the marsh. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: Plenty of cemetery visitors for Mother's Day but none for the hawk watch.
Weather: A pretty blue sky all day, temps struggling and failing to get into the 50s. Winds were fresh from the west throughout the watch (SW, WSW & WNW), chilly coming off of close by Lake Erie.
Raptor Observations: Very little migrating, 1 adult bald eagle, 3 broadwings, 1 American kestrel, and 5 TV's that I gave the benefit of the doubt. Local TVs and a few local redtails and that was it. All hours were covered by the main entrance. The ball park gate was locked.
Non-raptor Observations: Before starting the 1st hour I had an Eastern kingbird over near the pond.
Predictions: National Weather Service says, "Partly sunny, with a high near 53. Light north wind becoming northwest 6 to 11 mph in the morning." I wouldn't expect much with northerly winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 11 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Greg Sanda, Luke Seitz, Mark Kimble , Mike Tetlow, Mitch Barry, Shannon Sanda, Vid Killius
Visitors: 10
Weather: Mostly cloudy in the morning with high thin clouds, temps in the mid 40s, and light south winds. Gradually those clouds started to disappear, soon replaced by big puffy clouds that lasted for the rest of the day. Between 10 and 10:30 the lake breeze kicked in pushing the flight inland and we followed. Initially, there were some birds over Frisbee Hill, but with the sustained lake breeze, they got pushed further in, out of sight. Around 3 PM the southerly breeze picked back up so we moved back to the platform. Temps reached a high of 68F. Some scattered sprinkles after 5 PM.
Raptor Observations: Today was another day of high altitude raptors. We tallied just over 1000 birds with the majority being Broad-winged Hawks. The ratio of juveniles to adults continues to increase. Sharp-shinned Hawks are still on the move with a total of 184 for the day. Bald Eagles remain numerous with a total of 31. There was a high flying Peregrine Falcon along with a few kestrels bringing us to a total of 10 species for the day.
Non-raptor Observations: South winds overnight pushed some new birds into the area. The morning flight consisted of mostly American Goldfinches with some decent sized flocks of American Pipits. There were a handful of warblers but most were heard-only flight calls. Both species of yellowlegs flew over, along with two Dunlin, two Solitary Sandpipers, and a peep sp. The numbers of White-crowned Sparrows continue along the hedge rows with over 25 seen at once. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Sue Barth
Observers:
Visitors: Rick Thomas
Weather: Low hanging, thick, dark clouds for the first couple of hours but the sky eventually brightened to blue skies and plenty of sunshine. Temps stayed between 55F and 60. The winds were favorable between 9 and 14mph and predominantly from the SW.
Raptor Observations: It was a very slow beginning with a very modest ending. In all, 81 migrating raptors flew over, Broad-wings leading at 49, Turkey Vultures numbered 20, 5 Bald Eagles, 4 sharpies, 1 coop, and 2 Red-tails. Locals included a pair of adult Bald Eagles, a few Turkey Vultures, a pair of Red-tails, a kestrel, and a coop.
Predictions: Mother's Day looks pleasant: 57F, dry, and mild winds from the West.<br>
Monday looks to be mostly clear with temps a little cooler due to WNW winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Barth (<suebarth...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Fred Harrington
Observers: Jim Landau
Visitors: Jim Landau
Weather: Cool light winds from the west to slightly north. Temps around 10 C. Count started after the morning rain and the skies become mostly clear.
Raptor Observations: A few migrants passed through, along with the usual locals of Red-tailed Hawk, Turkey Vulture and a Cooper's Hawk. Migrants were mostly Turkey Vultures and a few Broad-winged Hawks and a Red-tailed Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Barn Swallows and American Goldfinches were close by the count site. Others around the cemetery included a Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher, a number of the usual.
Predictions: Temps rising to 15 C with SW winds gusting to 25 KPH. Afternoon forecast of showers, thunderstorms, and hail. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Frederick Harrington (<harrinfe...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Date: 5/8/26 4:26 pm From: James Kimball <kimball...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Chandler Rd. (Piffard) Black Tern
There was a Black Tern flying about and diving this evening (c. 6:30) at the shorebird site along Chandler Rd., off the end of Flats Rd. Jim Kimball <kimball...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Vid Killius
Visitors: 1
Weather: Rain overnight lasted until around 9:30am. It became mostly sunny with some scattered puffy clouds. Temps ranged from 46F to 53F. Winds started off as NW, but the lake breeze started up around 1pm shifting the wind to NE.
Raptor Observations: Today was another very high flight with birds literally popping in and out of clouds. There were a total of 282 raptors today. Most were Broad-winged Hawks with some Turkey Vultures and Bald Eagles mixed in. While scoping Broad-wings going in and out of the clouds I would come across Sharp-shinned Hawks so high they were only visible with the scope! Makes me wonder how many were actually up there
Non-raptor Observations: There were a minimum of 15 White-crowned Sparrows feeding at the seed! Bobolinks and Eastern Meadowlarks were singing all morning. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: 48F with mild wind NNW upon arrival at Site 1A. Temperatures and wind remained consistent during the 3 hours devoted to today's count. A pleasant spring afternoon with panoramic views of the Lake Erie south shoreline, the Concord Grape Vineyards and the ever-changing escarpment as springtime proceeds.
Raptor Observations: Started the count from Site 1A @ 10:00 AM. Mild NW wind @ .4 - 1.1 MPH was enough to push the meager flight up the escarpment. 28 TV's; 2 full adult BE's' 2 Red-Tails, and only 1 BW came through during today's 3 hour duration.
Non-raptor Observations: As usual, local Bald Eagles were traveling back and forth from the Lake's shore to the escarpment, along with a showing of local Red Tails and TV's. There were very few migrating non-raptors in today's mostly empty skies.
Predictions: Cloudy skies during the morning hours followed by thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 62F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Depending on the remaining raptors in the pipeline, the predicted weather conditions are favorable. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 5/8/26 8:20 am From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Identifying where birds fall on the color wheel - The Wildlife Society
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Tim Willis, Vid Killius
Visitors:
2
Weather:
The morning started out mostly cloudy with light WNW winds. The clouds soon
cleared and it became mostly blue skies. Winds shifted to the north and
increased to 10-15mph. Temps started in the low 40s and reached a high of
53F. Around 3pm, clouds returned only letting small bits of sun through.
Raptor Observations:
Today was relatively slow with a total of 53 birds seen. There were 22
Broad-winged Hawks, 16 Turkey Vultures, 10 Bald Eagles, and 4 Sharp-shinned
Hawks. The highlight of the day was a beautiful adult Peregrine Falcon that
flew over.
Non-raptor Observations:
Even though there wasn�t much songbird movement last night, there were a
couple species of warblers in the parking lot. A male Black-throated Blue
Warbler and a male Cape May Warbler were feeding in the flowering trees.
There was also my first Eastern Warbling Vireo of the year in the woods
behind the pavilion.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson, John Antonevich
Observers: John Antonevich, Kirk Szkiewski
Visitors: Kirk Szkelski anchored low on the escarpment. John Antonevich arrived 12pm+ to anchor the Creamery location where I spent the whole day save for the initial 30 minutes of the count.
Weather: Clear skies. Highly variable winds between W & N. 100% high cloud cover early, then cloudless skies.
Raptor Observations: Relatively little raptor movement.
Non-raptor Observations: Great egret at 10:15 along the lake shore.
Predictions: Early rain and westerly winds might push the late birds through? ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 11:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Visitors:
0
Weather:
Rain overnight lasted until noon. After the rain, there were overcast
skies, temps in the mid 40s, and light NE winds.
Raptor Observations:
The clouds thinned for a little while, getting a couple Turkey Vultures and
Bald Eagles up and flying, but it didn�t last long and soon there were
thick clouds again.
Non-raptor Observations:
Not much around today
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 11:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Landau
Observers:
Visitors: no visitors
Weather: Rain & drizzle delayed the start but eventually precip. calmed down. Overcast but for a brief 1/2 hour before the cloud filled back in completely. Winds were pretty much calm or very light & variable for the 1st 3 hours. Wind freshened for the last 1 1/2 hrs and was cold & from the west.
Raptor Observations: The 1st 2 hours only saw 1 local Bald Eagle & 1 local Cooper's Hawk. 2 adult Bald Eagles migrated together during the brief 1/2 hr of sun. Otherwise a small # of Broadwings & Red-tails, 1 Turkey Vulture, 1 Cooper's and 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk. In the last 1/2 hr a few of the local Turkey Vultures floated up and back down again.
Non-raptor Observations: Great Egret, 5 DC Corms,& a pair of Common Mergs on the pond. A number of Chimney Swifts zoomed around and 1 turkey walked across the road through the woods. Plus the usual suspects - grackles, redwings, starlings, killdeer, crows, etc.
Predictions: National Weather Service is calling for, "A chance of showers, mainly after 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. West wind 6 to 15 mph." Things have been held up with this stretch of April-like weather so maybe some movement. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Landau (<landaujr...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay, Pat Martin, Vid Killius
Visitors: 9
Weather: The morning started off quite breezy with SW winds at 15-20mph, partial sun, and temps in the low 60s. As the day progressed, the wind increased to 20-25mph with some higher gusts and at times shifted more west. Temps reached a high of 70F. Overall the skies were mostly cloudy with only short periods with sun. Rain started at 4:30pm.
Raptor Observations: The flight started early with Sharp-shinned Hawks moving down the barrier island. After a couple hours, the Broad-winged Hawks started to get up along with some Turkey Vultures. Sharp-shinned Hawks were the most abundant bird today with a total of 320. There were almost equal numbers of Turkey Vultures (281) and Broad-winged Hawk (289), along with decent numbers of Red-tailed Hawks (35) and Bald Eagles (32). The more unusual raptors seen today include 1 Peregrine Falcon and 1 Golden Eagle!
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jays were on the move again with large flocks congregating over the West Spit before heading east. The largest single flock seen today was estimated to be around 2,500! Scarlet Tanagers, Bobolinks, and both species of oriole were seen flying east along the parkway. There were also some warblers flying over including Pine, Magnolia, Yellow-rump, Palm, Yellow, and Black-throated Green. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Steve Pitt
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: A very windy with strong gusts and cloudy day with a slight chill despite 60 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures.
Raptor Observations: It was a day for strong fliers. There were several Bald Eagles but fewer Broad-winged Hawks than might be expected during this time of year.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Steve Pitt (<spitt...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 05:00:00
Observation end time: 17:00:00
Total observation time: 11.75 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Daena Ford, Mark Kimble , Peter Burns,
Shelly Rackovsky
Visitors:
10
Weather:
The morning started out with mostly cloudy skies, temps in the 50s, and SW
winds at 10-15mph. The clouds didn�t last long and it soon became mostly
sunny. In the afternoon, a high, thin cloud layer started to form, but that
also didn�t last long. Temps reached a high of 73F, and winds continued SW
at 10-20mph all day.
Raptor Observations:
The Broad-wings just keep coming! Today�s flight was dominated by adult
Broad-winged Hawks with a total of 5,059. The majority of birds today were
high and lakeside, fighting their way back after being blown out over the
lake. It was also another great day for Sharp-shinned Hawks with birds
moving all day totaling 478. Bald Eagles (62), Red-tailed Hawks (26), and
Northern Harriers (26) were also mixed in. Today�s numbers officially push
our season total past last year�s total, and we still have all of May left!
Non-raptor Observations:
Blue Jays were abundant, but flocks kept circling back and spent a while
over the west spit before heading east, so there were probably only around
2,000. There were a few warblers flying over in the morning including one
Magnolia Warbler. My first Baltimore Oriole of the season also flew past
the platform. A Black Tern flew into the bay and headed up towards Salmon
Creek in the morning.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Sue Barth
Observers: Jane Ricotta, Jim Landau, Karen Landau, Sandy Radigan
Visitors: Sandy Radigan, Jane Ricotta, Jim & Karen Landau
Weather: Lots of sunshine with temps ranging from 57F to 68. Gusty winds were from the SW and WSW.
Raptor Observations: Overall, a slow day - Turkey Vultures numbered 149, 1 Osprey, 6 Bald Eagles, 2 sharpies, 19 Broad-wings, 4 migrating Red-tails, and 2 falcons - a Peregrine and a Kestrel. Locals included 6 Turkey Vultures, 3 Red-tails, at least 1 adult Bald Eagle, and a coop.
Predictions: Tomorrow looks like it will be warm with favorable winds but rain and possible thunderstorms are predicted as the morning goes on. Wednesday's winds change from south to north and bring a bit of a drop in temperature along with more rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Barth (<suebarth...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers: Mike Ceci
Weather: Cloudless skies all day with a few contrails. Early SSW wind inland with SW at lake shore until mid-day, then winds moving to W. Pleasant temperatures.
Raptor Observations: Surprisingly few raptors given the ideal flight conditions. Just as surprisingly was relatively robust TV count. Very difficult cloudless skies with many raptors making first appearance directly overhead, not sure if we spotted all the birds. Early UB may been an immature RL, was not an osprey.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue jays by the hundreds.
Predictions: Rain over night. Early SW winds moving to W, rain in the afternoon. Maybe a flight ahead of the afternoon front if there are birds in the pipeline, but today's count would suggest the migration may be winding down. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 5/4/26 2:05 pm From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk Continues this Saturday at the Montezuma Refuge
Hope you can join us this Saturday. And bring a friend! See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Weather:
Weather was all over the place today! Light SW winds in the morning allowed
a lake breeze to kick in just after 11am. NE winds at 10-15mph lasted until
around 2:30 when a strong SW wind overpowered the lake breeze. Temps
started in the low 40s and reached a high of 51F. Skies started out
completely cloudless; it then clouded over around 1:30pm, cleared partially
again, and finally a thick cloud layer rolled in around 4:30pm. There were
some scattered sprinkles after 5pm.
Raptor Observations:
Today was one of the highest flights I�ve ever seen. Some birds were only
visible with a scope pointing straight up at the sky. The flight started
out high, got knocked down a bit when the lake breeze hit, but then
regained altitude as the SW wind powered back up. The majority of the
flight were Broad-winged Hawks (659) with some Turkey Vultures (218) and
Sharp-shinned Hawks (60) mixed in. One of the few birds that was visible
with just your naked eye was a beautiful immature Golden Eagle (it was
still pretty high!).
Non-raptor Observations:
Non-raptors: two White-crowned Sparrows continue at the seed. One lonesome
Sandhill Crane flew over twice. A group of 7 Common Ravens were seen
kettling up and then broke east.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 4.25 hours
Official Counter: Joe Fell
Observers: Joe Sullivan
Visitors: Joe Sullivan braved the windy conditions for the latter portion of the day.
Weather: Cool, windy, and cloudy.
Raptor Observations: Both the numbers and species diversity were low today. The majority of the birds seen were very high, some being viewable with a scope only.
There was one very interesting bird that resembled a Black vulture in form and flight style, but did not provide great looks. It appeared to have a lighter back and darker underside. I do not think the lighter back was due to lighting, but I cannot say the same for the darker underside.
Non-raptor Observations: A variety of expected migrants, with 13 Chimney Swifts fighting the wind being my favorite.
Predictions: The weather for tomorrow looks a bit milder, but still a bit breezy, and will hopefully have a better flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Joseph Fell (<jfell2000...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers: Janet Chew
Visitors: Kay Petronio visited with Janet Chew for two hours and helped scout inland movement.
Weather: Cool, clear skies and moderate SW winds to start. Mid-morning clouds reached 100% coverage with clear skies returning in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: A very light day overall. Flight initiated at site #1 on NY5 and moved inland around noon, finishing over NY20. The majority of the BWs and SSs came through in the last 90 minutes of the count.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Warn, mostly sunny skies and moderate SW winds... excellent flight conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 13:30:00
Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Don Dixon
Observers: Jim Landau
Visitors:
Jim Landau stopped by to see how the count was going and chat. He was my
only visitor.
Weather:
Majority of the day was sunny with partial clouds. Temperatures were in the
lows 40s F. Light winds to start the count with wind picking up towards the
end. Winds stayed out of the West for the entirety of the Count.
Raptor Observations:
Light movement of turkey vultures mixed in with a few red tails, a couple
broad wings and a pair of bald eagles.
Non-raptor Observations:
I had a pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers in the new section �Oaks at
Lakeside�. Two Double Crested Cormorants were in the pond. Normal bird
activity throughout with the signing of American Robins dominated the sound
waves.
Predictions:
High of 54� F for Sunday with WSW to SW winds. Hopefully that�ll prove for
a better flight.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Don Dixon (<donald.dixon...>)
Site Description:
This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in
Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline
of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY.
For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Daena Ford
Visitors:
15
Weather:
Today was windy and cold with temps starting at 39F and reaching a high of
46F. Winds started out as west and shifted to NW at 15-25mph. Partly cloudy
skies in the morning cleared to mostly sunny midday, then clouded back up
in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations:
Today�s raptor numbers are similar to yesterday�s, with 118 Turkey
Vultures, 44 Broad-winged Hawks, and 28 Sharp-shinned Hawks. The majority
of the birds were very high and when the clouds cleared midday, it was
almost impossible to see anything in the blue sky.
Non-raptor Observations:
The single Wild Turkey was wandering around the park again today! It kept
running across the road and running between hedge rows providing some
excellent entertainment.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Temperature remained in the low 40's during today's brief count. North wind @ 3.8 - 4.5. 65% cloud cover. No precipitation.
Raptor Observations: With low temperatures and north wind, expectations were low. Accordingly, the count was 7 TV's, 3 BW's from 10:30 - 11:00. Two immature Bald Eagles between 11:05 - 11:20. No additional birds. Watch shut down @ noon.
Non-raptor Observations: Local Bald Eagles, Red Tail being harassed by a relentless crow. Very few non-raptors.
Predictions: Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 56F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. With warming temperatures, a minimal flight is expected. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 11:00:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Fred Harrington
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: Temps of 5 C, with very light SW winds and drizzle throughout the count period.
Raptor Observations: none
Non-raptor Observations: not much ======================================================================== Report submitted by Frederick Harrington (<harrinfe...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Mark Kimble
Visitors: 6
Weather: The morning started out sunny with light west winds and temps in the low 40s. However, it quickly clouded over and the winds shifted to the NE and increased to 10-15mph. Around 12:30pm the rain started and lasted for the rest of the day.
Raptor Observations: There was a small push of birds before the clouds rolled in, then a second tiny push right before the rain. Broad-winged Hawks (86), Turkey Vultures (57), and Sharp-shinned Hawks (43) made up almost the entirety of the flight. There were also 7 Bald Eagle, 6 Northern Harriers, and 2 Red-tailed Hawks for a total of 201 birds for the day.
Non-raptor Observations: No new birds today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Sharon Sisti
Observers:
Weather: Drizzle throughout the count with some hope f clearing the last hour but to no avail. Rain south of the count. Winds our of the NW at approximately 7mph.
Raptor Observations: Not a single raptor in migration.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Friday, the first day of May, holds temperatures to just the mid to upper 40s, with a dry start to the day then rain moves through mainly mid to late morning and through the afternoon. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sharon Sisti (<sharonsisti...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Mike Tetlow, Shelly Rackovsky, Vid Killius
Visitors: 4
Weather: It was mostly cloudy all day with NW winds at 10-20mph and temps reaching a high of 51F.
Raptor Observations: A total of 283 raptors migrated over Braddock Bay today. The majority of the flight were Broad-winged Hawks with a good number of Sharp-shinned Hawks and Bald Eagles mixed in! There was one light morph Rough-legged Hawk that went down the parkway.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors: one of the highlights of the day was a group of 9 Common Ravens that kettled for a minute before streaming over heading east. There were also several Cliff Swallows feeding over the bay and 4 White-crowned Sparrows at the seed. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 11:45:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 2.75 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Morning rain and dense cloud cover delayed the start of today's count until 11:45. Temperatures remained in the mid '40's with NW wind. Brief clearing from 1:00 - 2:00.
Predictions: Periods of rain. Cooler. High near 45F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch. Low expectations. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 4/30/26 6:02 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk at Montezuma Refuge this Saturday
Just a reminder. And bring a friend! See poster for details.
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Niki Banke, Tim Willis, Vid Killius
Visitors: 3
Weather: Today was gloomy with overcast skies, light NE winds, and temps around 50F. Rain started at 1pm and lasted for the rest of the day.
Raptor Observations: Due to the weather there were only a few birds on the move today. By the time the rain hit, a total of 68 birds had passed over. 51 of those birds were Sharp-shinned Hawks. Just before the rain hit, 4 Broad-winged Hawks went by.
Non-raptor Observations: Lots of swallows over the bay! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Sue Barth
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Rain in the morning became more of a drizzle on and off during the afternoon. Thick clouds were present for much of the day offering a few peeks at the sun here and there. Pleasant temperatures ranged from 57F to 63 and winds were strong coming mostly from the South.
Raptor Observations: A very modest flight began near 2pm (DST) and ended around 3:30pm. 53 Broad-wings, followed by a surprising 17 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 16 Turkey Vultures, 3 Red-tails, 2 Osprey, and 1 coop. Local pairs of Red-tails, Bald Eagles, and Cooper's Hawks made appearances.
Predictions: Tomorrow (Wednesday): 100% chance of rain with possible thunderstorms, mild winds from the NNE and temps in the mid-50's. Thursday: Only a 20% chance of rain with mild Westerly winds and temps in the low 50's. The better looking day of the two. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Barth (<suebarth...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 05:00:00
Observation end time: 16:30:00
Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Daena Ford, Dominic Sherony, Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay,
Roger Clark, Sheryl Gracewski
Visitors:
10
Weather:
Wow�today was incredible! It�s been a while since we had nice southerly
winds. The day started with mostly cloudy skies and strong SW winds at
20-25mph. Birds were already on the move just after dawn. A band of rain
started to hit in the late morning, which shut down the flight for a couple
hours. After 1:00, the birds picked up again, and the floodgates really
opened between 3:00 and 5:00pm as the sun peeked through a bit. Temps were
pretty warm for the entire day, ranging from 60F to 66F. Winds remained
strong S for the entire day, with gusts of over 40mph.
Raptor Observations:
It was a magical day for Sharp-shinned Hawks, with a total of 1,621 seen!
They were flying at all heights, from almost within touching distance of
the platform to sky-high at the top of towering kettles of Broad-wings.
Bald Eagles also put in an amazing show today, with a total of 162. And, of
course, there were lots of Broad-winged Hawks! Our total for the day was
4,990, of which around 4,500 were just in the last two hours of the day.
Other highlights included great numbers of Northern Harriers (88), two
Rough-legged Hawks, and three Golden Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations:
Non-raptors: an incredible flight of blackbirds today, with over 4,000
Rusty Blackbirds. A couple thousand Blue Jays were also on the move. More
Chimney Swifts arrived, and there was a noticeable uptick in the number of
Barn Swallows.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson, Michael Ceci
Observers: Kate Ebersol, Mike Ceci
Visitors: None
Weather: Light rain before the start of the watch, and again between 9:00 - 9:30. Strong southerly winds coupled with 100% cloud cover hampered the flight for the first 4 hours. The wind somewhat subsided during the afternoon. During the last two hours, conditions became more favorable resulting in a modest flight.
Raptor Observations: During the first two hours, raptors were low over the vineyards and the field south of Rt 5. The BW flight didn't begin until the 11:00 hour. During the last two hour's favorable conditions, 215 BW's were counted. There was a good variety of raptors during today's count, all of which took place at Site 1A located on Rt 5. Mike Ceci joined the watch at noon, and Kate Ebersol arrived at 1:15. Upon Andy's departure at 1:30, Mike Ceci took over as official counter.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: For Wednesday 04/28/2026, rain is likely with a high 53F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. The chance of rain is 100%. Total rainfall will be approximately 1/2 inch. Overall, unfavorable conditions for a flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 4/28/26 11:33 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Crows harassing Raven in flight
Out in the garden and hearing some crows squawking and was wondering what they were on about. Suddenly the calls grew nearer and I looked up to see two crows chasing a raven in flight across my property- and not very far overhead. The ease with which the acrobstic raven was flying (it turned upside down at one point as if to mock its asssilants) was amazing....as was the size difference between the two species. P.S. the raven had something in its mouth- a very young crow perhaps? Sar
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 09:00:00
Observation end time: 14:30:00
Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Carl Carbone
Observers: Joe Sullivan, Stephanie Carbone
Visitors:
Joe Sullivan
Weather:
Mostly sunny and warm with light to moderate SE to ESE winds.
Raptor Observations:
Raptors passed in small numbers. Most were very high and many were well
north. Turkey vultures were barely visible to the naked eye, while most
smaller hawks required binoculars. I spotted an eagle well to the northwest
along the lake shore in my scope�probably at least a mile or so away. I
couldn't make out a lot of detail, but as it circled I could clearly see a
golden color reflected on its shoulders. It was most likely a Golden Eagle,
but without 100% confidence I can't 100% call it such. The count was
conducted entirely from the baseball diamond parking lot.
Non-raptor Observations:
Many of the expected birds. An American Crow chased a Common Raven. One
thing that was really neat was a flock of at least 50 (silent) Blue Jays
that passed between 50' and 100' overhead.
Predictions:
Cool and rainy doesn't bode well for a good count.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Carl Carbone (<csquared63...>)
Site Description:
This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in
Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline
of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY.
For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Directions to site:
Lakeside Cemetery is located in Hamburg, NY which is about 10 miles
southwest of Buffalo, NY at the Hamburg Exit 57 of the NY State Thruway.
Bear right after the toll booth onto Camp Road (Route 75). Proceed through
the traffic light at Southwestern Blvd.(Route 20). The entrance to Lakeside
Cemetery is on the left, less than 1/4 mile from the light. The watch is
normally conducted half way between the entrance and the woods.
There is currently one alternate location for easterly winds that move the
flight path to the west and closer to the lake shore. That is farther into
Lakeside Cemetery at Section H.
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay, Shelly Rackovsky, Vid Killius
Visitors: 10
Weather: Today was similar to yesterday with a good number of birds on the move despite the east winds. The morning started off with light NW winds shifting to E, clear skies, and temps around 42F. Birds started to get up around 10am, but they were far inland, so we moved to follow them. At first, kettles of birds were right overhead, but they quickly got blown even further in by strengthening E winds...far beyond where we could see. Blue skies made it particularly difficult to spot anything in the afternoon. Temps reached a high of 60F.
Raptor Observations: The majority of birds today were, you guessed it, Broad-winged Hawks! We saw a total of 1,177, pushing the season total past 26,000. There were a lot of Sharp-shinned Hawks moving straight through the afternoon, with a total of 159. A smattering of other species included 3 Golden Eagles and all three species of falcons, including a gorgeous adult Peregrine. Today pushed our April total over 50,000 birds!
Non-raptor Observations: Around 2,500 Blue Jays moving in the morning. First of year Yellow Warbler, along with several Palm Warblers and Ruby-crowned Kinglets. Five Sandhill Cranes flew over. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers: Mike Ceci, Sherry Mattison
Weather: Clear skies most of the day and SSE winds off the escarpment. Wind shift at 1:42 to NE at lake shore precipitated move to #1b , then 2, then 3. High clouds made for difficult viewing conditions most of the day.
Raptor Observations: High flight line over NY5 early, then moving toward I90. Chase inland for flight line around 1:40pm did not find birds. Mike checked last hour of watch and found few TVs.
Non-raptor Observations: Dozens of bluejays early.
Predictions: Early rain. S winds mid-day should bring a fligt. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 4/27/26 11:12 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] "Transformation" Interpretive Walk Continues This Saturday at the Montezuma Refuge
Hope you will join us. And bring a friend! See poster for details. Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Greg Sanda, Luke Seitz, Mark Kimble , Mitch Barry,
Shannon Sanda
Visitors:
6
Weather:
Today was a great example of peak-season raptors that need to migrate under
conditions that don�t seem quite ideal! The day started out quite calm,
with ESE winds at 5mph and temps around 44F. There was a bit of fog on the
bay in the early morning, but this burned off pretty quickly and the rest
of the day was mostly sunny with scattered clouds. As birds started to get
up, we quickly realized that they were all far inland, so we followed. The
wind shifted around a bit to N and then back to ENE, but only maxing out at
around 10-15mph. Temps reached a high of 55F.
Raptor Observations:
Despite the wind direction not being quite ideal, it was calm enough that
plenty of birds were on the move! We saw just over 5,000 birds today, the
majority of which were Broad-winged Hawks (4,649). Some of the first
kettles were low and right overhead, but they quickly moved even further
inland and into the heat shimmer. For most of the afternoon, we were glued
to the scopes, looking at very distant kettles! In addition to the
Broad-winged Hawks, there were quite a few Bald Eagles (33), Sharp-shinned
Hawks (100), and Red-tailed Hawks (58) on the move, along with all three
falcon species and 7 Golden Eagles!
Non-raptor Observations:
Our first Blue-headed Vireo of the season was singing.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: David Gordon
Observers:
Visitors: No visitors
Weather: Rain was steady throughout the watch period but did feature a few periods when the sky lightened and appeared to offer hope of clearing . This did not happen.
Raptor Observations: A resident American Kestral was the only raptor seen.
Non-raptor Observations: European Starlings and American Robins were present in good numbers.
Predictions: Predicted NE winds may balance out the expected clear skies and warmer temperatures some flight may happen. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Gordon (<dgordonphoto...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers:
Weather: Cloudless skies. Cool northerly breeze.
Raptor Observations: Relatively few birds moved in our neighborhood. Those that came through glided on the winds rising up the ridge at site #4 on Creamery Rd. Hopes of a meaningful flight faded as the day wore on.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Early rain, then cloudy with cool northerly winds. Not ideal conditions for a flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Fred Harrington
Observers: Mike Zebehazy
Visitors: Mike Zebehazy
Weather: Light to moderate ENE breeze. Starting out full clouds and ending with partly sunny. Temps ~13 degrees C.
Raptor Observations: The first two hours and the fourth hour had a small trickle of raptors, sandwiched around the third hour which had an explosion of birds.
Local birds consisted of a couple of Turkey Vultures and Red-tailed Hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: Common Loon and Common Raven, and the usual.
Predictions: A bit cooler ~10 C with gusty E winds. High chance of rain and drizzle throughout the day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Frederick Harrington (<harrinfe...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers:
Visitors: 2
Weather: The morning was mostly cloudy with temps in the upper 30s. The afternoon was a mix of sun and clouds and temps reached a high of 42F. Strong east winds all day.
Raptor Observations: Due to the strong east winds, there was very little raptor migration today. Only 109 birds went over the park, the majority being Turkey Vultures.
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Date: 4/24/26 10:40 am From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Re: DNA traces in bird feeders leads to rare bat discovery
Date: 4/24/26 5:37 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Transformation Interpretive Walk at Montezuma Refuge this Saturday
Just a reminder. See poster for details. And bring a friend! Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 06:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 8.75 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Mark Kimble , Mike Tetlow, Pat Lindsay
Visitors:
5
Weather:
Mostly sunny in the morning, clouding up in the afternoon. Winds were light
and variable. Temps ranged from 48F to 55F. Just after 3pm more clouds
rolled in and the lake breeze intensified, dampening any hopes that the
flight would get back to Frisbee.
Raptor Observations:
Overall it was a slightly frustrating day with the majority of the flight
going around us inland. The lake breeze kicked in early, around 9:30am,
just when some birds were starting to get up. We moved the count to Frisbee
Hill, but the lake breeze was too strong and the birds were pushed too far
inland so we still couldn�t see them. Around noon, a light southerly wind
shifted the flight line directly over us for about an hour before the lake
breeze kicked back up and pushed the flight south out of sight. The birds
that we saw during other hours were specks that were as far inland as you
could see! Other observers went to Ridge Rd and confirmed a big flight
along the ridge.
Non-raptor Observations:
The excitement for the day was early at the park when a Cooper�s Hawk dove
into the hedgerow in front of the platform and caught an American Woodcock!
A Bald Eagle also dropped a Largemouth Bass on the lawn next to the
platform. Dinner!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Sharon Sisti
Observers: Jane Ricotta, Sandy Radigan
Visitors: Sandy Radigan, Jane Ricotta, Dave Todtenhagen.
Weather: ENE and NE winds produced far fewer birds than yesterday. Little cloud cover and temps near 70F.
Raptor Observations: Winds pushed migrating raptors high and far from the hawk site, particularly later in the watch as birds were distant and difficult to see coming through haze. Predominantly Broadwing Hawks with one Bald Eagle and two Osprey. Flight direction highly variable!
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Sharon Sisti (<sharonsisti...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: A beautiful spring morning on the South shore of Lake Erie in Chautauqua County NY. The count began at 9:00 AM at Site # 1A (Route 5). With the light NW wind, moves were made within the first 15 minutes to Site 1A (Forsyth Rd); Site 2 (Parker Road); Site 3 (Creamery Road); and Site 4 (Douglas Road). Site 4 is situated beyond the highest point of the regular sites and affords a good view of flights coming further south. From past experience, during the peak season of Broad-Wings, when the wind is NW, we need to view south from a higher elevation of 1370 Ft. Nothing was coming through at Site 4, but we intend to check it throughout the remainder of the 2026 Season.
Raptor Observations: Today's flight was minimal with a total of 16 TV's and 6 raptors. From Site 3, there was a good view of an immature Bald Eagle @ 10:15 AM.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors were very limited today, with a modest number of Blue jays, Canada Geese, and others. As usual, the local TV's and Red Tails were active. The local Bald Eagles were making their way towards the Lake's shoreline.
Predictions: For Friday, 04/24/2026, Partly cloudy skies are forecasted with a high of 64F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Generally, we have limited flights with NE wind. But wind is variabe through our Watch sites. With the higher temperatures and today's very limited numbers, tomorrow holds the potential for decent numbers. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 4/23/26 11:35 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Recording of From Endangered to Abundant—the State of the World’s Cranes in 2026 with Dr. Rich Beilfuss, President & CEO is now available
For we lovers of cranes.
Fascinating look at the world's crane species (and their status) courtesy
the International Crane Foundation. Equally fascinating are the cultural
connections revealed in the webcast. It is so heartening to see the love
people from all countries have for these beautiful creatures.
Sar
"Instructions for living life:
Pay attention
Be astonished
Tell about it."
Mary Oliver
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Peter Saracino via groups.io <petersaracino...>
Date: Thu, Apr 23, 2026, 2:32 PM
Subject: [eatonbirdingsociety] Recording of From Endangered to Abundant—the
State of the World’s Cranes in 2026 with Dr. Rich Beilfuss, President & CEO
is now available
To: <eatonbirdingsociety...>
For we lovers of cranes.
Fascinating look at the world's crane species (and their status) courtesy
the International Crane Foundation. Equally fascinating are the cultural
connections revealed in the webcast. It is so heartening to see the love
people from all countries have for these beautiful creatures.
Sar
"Instructions for living life:
Pay attention
Be astonished
Tell about it."
Mary Oliver
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: INTERNATIONAL CRANE FOUNDATION <
<noreply...>
Date: Wed, Apr 22, 2026, 4:32 PM
Subject: Recording of From Endangered to Abundant—the State of the World’s
Cranes in 2026 with Dr. Rich Beilfuss, President & CEO is now available
To: <petersaracino...>
[image: Banner Image]
[image: Logo Image]
Recording of From Endangered to Abundant—the State of the World’s Cranes in
2026 with Dr. Rich Beilfuss, President & CEO is now available
Thank you for attending From Endangered to Abundant—the State of the
World’s Cranes in 2026 with Dr. Rich Beilfuss, President & CEO! A recording
of the event is ready to view.
This event is powered by Microsoft Teams, under the direction of the
meeting organizer. The data processing that occurs for purposes of this
event is subject to the terms of the meeting organizer. Microsoft Privacy
Policy <https://privacy.microsoft.com/privacystatement> _._,_._,_
------------------------------
Groups.io Links:
Date: 4/23/26 9:23 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Tree swallow romance
Was out doing yard work and saw 2 newly arrived tree swallows (one male, one female) atop the pole which the nest box is afixed to. They were "billing and cooing" - literally! Now and again the female perched at the entrance hole to check out the new "digs". Only in the Spring!!!! Sar
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
Observation start time: 07:00:00
Observation end time: 16:00:00
Total observation time: 8.25 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Daena Ford, Mark Kimble , Tim Willis
Visitors:
6
Weather:
It was mostly sunny overall, with lots of clear blue sky. The winds started
out WSW at 10mph, shifting around to NNW at 10mph by the end of the day.
The lake breeze kicked in around mid-day, so we moved inland for the
afternoon. Temps ranged from 53F to 62F.
Raptor Observations:
Today was excellent, with great kettles of Broad-winged Hawks and nice
raptor diversity! We saw just over 4,000 birds today, the vast majority of
which were Broad-winged Hawks (3559). The count started off pretty quiet,
but kettles started forming around 11:00 and increased in the afternoon.
The biggest hour was 1:00-2:00, with over 1,400 birds. Turkey Vultures
(302) and Sharp-shinned Hawks (117) were other major components of the
flight. The morning featured a juvenile American Goshawk moving down the
lakeshore, and we had excellent views of a Golden Eagle in the afternoon!
Non-raptor Observations:
Non-raptors: not much to report here today�only a smattering of ducks are
left in the bay, and not many passerines came in last night. There were
more migrant Blue Jay flocks moving along the lakeshore, totaling at least
400 birds.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 07:30:00
Observation end time: 16:30:00
Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Alec Humann
Observers: Colin Gallagher, Kevin Rybczynski, Sharon Sisti, Tom Riley
Visitors:
Tom Riley, Sharon Sisti, Colin Gallagher and Kevin Rybczynski along with
some creepy dude who kept his distance thankfully.
Weather:
Light cloud cover at the beginning of the count and quickly changing over
to clear skies. Winds were consistent out of the WSW throughout the count
period. Temperatures were very comfortable ranging from the mid-50s to 60
degreesF.
Raptor Observations:
A great day for migration after birds had been held up on Sunday and Monday
due to snow, lake-effect snow/rain showers and northerly winds. The weather
yesterday was marginal so today they came�the adult Broad-wings!
Spectacular show of birds in tight kettles and birds in steady streams,
sometimes in varying directions, with many birds right overhead and low. A
nice mix of other raptors as well. I saw one immature Broad-wing today and
two adult missing tails!
Non-raptor Observations:
Other birds on the move included Barn Swallow and Common Loon. I was too
busy to notice much more today.
Predictions:
Sunny with some clouds, high in the mid-60s but with a light NE wind. May
provide good viewing earlier in the day before birds get high catching lift
from the northeasterly breeze. Should be a notable flight tomorrow.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Alec Humann (<alechumann...>)
Site Description:
This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in
Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline
of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY.
For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 12:45:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Kate Ebersol
Observers:
Visitors: Charlotte Schmaltz
Weather: Sunny with westerly winds with mild temperatures.
Raptor Observations: High flight with hawks streaming past sites #2 and #3 during the brief 2-hour coverage period.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Tomorrow: sunny, warm and NE winds. Friday will be mild, partly cloudy and NE winds. Not conditions we associate with big flights but maybe we'll check inland over the ridge to see if thermal move the birds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 4/22/26 3:07 pm From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Re: Myth‑busting about birds and sex when it comes to defending the nest
Date: 4/22/26 10:35 am From: 'Lynn A. Braband' via Geneseebirds <geneseebirds-l...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] Familiar forest sounds calm the mind more than exotic ones - Earth.com
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.68 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Bridget Watts, Mark Kimble , Mike Tetlow, Shelly Rackovsky
Visitors: 8
Weather: Another nice day of raptor watching, with steady movement and some nice kettles! Cloudy skies to start, clearing in the late morning, then clouding up again in the late afternoon. The winds were out of the south at 10-15mph until the lake breeze kicked in just before 2pm. Temps started in the 30s and reached a high of 51F.
Raptor Observations: A total of 1,759 birds were recorded today. Broad-winged Hawks were the most numerous species with a total of 1,213. Sharp-shinned Hawks were comparatively scarce with only 48 individuals. The more uncommon species seen today were 1 Rough-legged Hawk and 1 Golden Eagle, both in the morning. After the lake breeze kicked in we moved the count to Frisbee Hill. There, we had a consistent flow going over, almost entirely Broad-wings.
Non-raptor Observations: There were a couple flocks of Sandhill Cranes in the morning. The first of season Blue-gray Gnatcatcher flew over the platform and into the hedgerow calling. White-throated, American Tree, and Song Sparrows continue at the seed. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers: Gary Bletsch, Janet Chew, Mike Ceci, Sherry Mattison
Visitors: Kirk Szklenski arrived early and stayed late providing invaluable support. Others included Patty Hauchlander, Jackie Danmore, Keith Stock, Kate Ebersol.
Weather: Early clear skies, 20% clouds midday, 100% clouds late in the watch with S winds down escarpment most of day and SW wind at site #1 on Rt 5 where the entire count was conducted. Winds diminished in velocity through the day. Clear skies early generated warming which fueled the flight. A mild front, which arrived at 5:30,pushed the final birds through.
Raptor Observations: Day began with a single sharpie 20ft overhead and ended with a 219 BW push in the final 15 minutes. Flight line swayed numerous times between Rt 5 and very high a 1/4 mile offshore to the north. BWs and TVs numbers generally started slow and built through the day.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Partly cloudy, warmer temps and W wind. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 5.25 hours
Official Counter: Sue Barth
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: There was a southerly component to the moderate winds all day, temps rose from a chilly 38F to 55, no precipitation but very cloudy all day.
Raptor Observations: It was a surprisingly poor day, especially given the weather conditions. Only 45 migrating Turkey Vultures, 18 Broad-wings, 1 Osprey, 1 each sharpie and coop, and 3 migrating Red-tails. Our local pair of Red-tails and a coop made appearances.
Non-raptor Observations: Other than 1 Common Loon and a singing Purple Finch, nothing of note.
Predictions: Hopefully, better than today. The temps should be in the mid 60's, cloudy, light winds from the west. Thursday looks similar but with a northerly component to the winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Barth (<suebarth...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Ben Barkley , Luke Seitz
Visitors: 2
Weather: Another chilly day with temps in the mid-30s. Snow flurries in the morning with cloudy skies turning to mostly sunny skies in the afternoon. Winds were NW at 15-25mph.
Raptor Observations: Not many migrating raptors today due to the cold temperatures and the northerly component to the winds. There were a total of 78 birds, the majority of which were Turkey Vultures. The highlight of the day was when an immature Golden Eagle flew right over the parking lot!
Non-raptor Observations: Not many birds were around today. There was one Sandhill Crane that flew over multiple times, always heading in a different direction. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Christopher Hollister
Observers:
Visitors: None.
Weather: Unfavorable conditions for hawk watch/raptor migration. Unseasonably cold, persistent WNW winds, intermittent snow showers. I consulted with the Hawk Watch organizer and decided to pull the plug at 1:00pm local/Daylight Saving Time.
Non-raptor Observations: Birds: Nothing particularly noteworthy. Two personal FOY species (blue-gray gnatcatcher and northern house wren). Only Canada geese and one mallard on the pond. Link to eBird checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S324800874.
Other wildlife: Three white-tailed deer. (Note: We are in Daylight Saving Time, but HMA registers in Eastern Standard Time. So notwithstanding the times recorded here, I observed from 10:00am-1:00pm local time.)
Predictions: Improving conditions for tomorrow. Cloudy skies. Turning warmer. High 57F/14C by mid-afternoon. Winds from the south at 10-15mph/16-24kph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Christopher Hollister (<cvh2...>)
Site Description: This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY. For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00
Observation end time: 15:00:00
Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Maili Waters
Observers: Ben Barkley , Bridget Watts, Luke Seitz
Visitors:
Many for Birds of Prey Days
Weather:
It was a chilly day with temps starting in the 30s and reaching a high of
44F. Winds were west at 10-15mph in the morning, shifting to NW in the
afternoon. There were some scattered showers in the morning and in the
early evening.
Raptor Observations:
After the rain in the morning passed there was a push of a few hundred
birds, almost entirely Broad-winged Hawks. The flight was over the parkway
and with the northerly component to the winds the birds quickly shifted
farther inland. We moved the count to Frisbee Hill where we stayed until
around 2:30pm. There wasn�t a concentrated flight line, however there was a
steady trickle of birds on the move. We ended the day with a total of 1,142
individuals, mostly Turkey Vultures and Broad-winged Hawks. The highlight
of the day was definitely seeing five Golden Eagles, including three
together! All of them were young birds.
Non-raptor Observations:
Not much of a passerine flight this morning. We saw two distant Sandhill
Cranes from Frisbee Hill and a flock of seven from the park in the
afternoon.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Maili Waters (<mailirwaters...>)
Braddock Bay information may be found at:
http://www.bbrr.org/
Raptor Observations:
Very poor flight due to weather conditions and wind direction.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions:
Tomorrow will be a high of 40� with partial Sun and SSW winds. Should be
somewhat better today but expectations should be limited.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Don Dixon (<donald.dixon...>)
Site Description:
This spring only "all volunteer" watch is conducted at Lakeside Cemetery in
Hamburg, NY. It is located on flat lake plain located along the shoreline
of the east end of Lake Erie, about 10 miles south of Buffalo, NY.
For additional information contact Jim Landau at <landaujr...>
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Andy Dickson
Observers: Sherry Mattison
Visitors: Sherry Mattison scouted over the ridge on Belson Rd and at count locations lower on the escarpment.
Weather: Cold, brisk WNW winds. 100% cloud cover on arrival gave way to partial clearing between 11 and 1. Then clouds returned with scattered precipitation approaching from over Lake Erie.
Raptor Observations: Birds didn't take advantage of the wind lifting up the escarpment nor the additional warming when the clouds broke. Count conducted high on the escarpment at site #3.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: Cold with NW winds and afternoon clearing. About like today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew J. Dickson (<adickson3...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
Date: 4/19/26 5:42 am From: Peter Saracino <petersaracino...> Subject: [GeneseeBirds-L] 'Transformation' Interpretive Walks at the Montezuma Refuge
"Transformation"
As Earth circles the Sun it's Northern Hemisphere leans more deeply toward its parent star triggering a marvelous alchemy on the planet's surface. Energy that has its source deep within the Sun's core now finds expression as leaf and flower, bird and beast, fish and frog, turtle and toad, invertebrate and fungi. Join New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer, Pete Saracino, as we explore myriad examples of this wonderful alchemy unfolding. See attached poster for details. And bring a friend! Pete Saracino/Refuge Volunteer Naturalist/New York State Master Naturalist Volunteer
"Instructions for living life: Pay attention Be astonished Tell about it." Mary Oliver
