Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Julie Brown, Phil Brown
Observers: Brian Zylich, Chuck Carlson, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 11 in all including Brian Zylich of Ware, MA who hiked up for the day and helped us find birds.
Weather: The strong wind whipped through long johns, ski pants, and multiple layers of socks and gloves, chilling observers to the bone. It blew off hats and tipped even a weighted scope and tripod onto the rocks. A mostly cloudy sky and low ceiling provided a nice backdrop to enjoy the scenery and raptors which were strong enough to power through the 40 mph+ gusts. Temps 0-2 C (32-36 F).
Raptor Observations: One or two red-tails every hour, making slow but steady progress in the sw direction. A few other scattered individuals of Merlin, Bald Eagles, Cooper's Hawk, and Red-shouldered Hawk rounded out the day. Despite our best efforts to 'visualize the Golden' we were unable to continue the three-day Golden Eagle streak.
Non-raptor Observations: A single flock of 14 Canada Geese and 2 Purple Finches were the only actively migrating birds noted. A Fox Sparrow and a White-throated Sparrow kept the diminishing junco flock company at the seed.
Predictions: Looks like great conditions for northern migrants with sunny skies and a slightly diminished north wind. Remember you'll have to hike the trails or the auto road from this point on! Hours remain 9-3. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
