Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent
Observers: Liz Kent, Michael Arthurs, Mike Jaber, Paul Pratt
Visitors: Thanks to Liz, Michael, Mike and Paul for keeping me company and helping observe on this gloomy morning. We understandably had only two visitors.
Weather: The day started mostly overcast with mist accompanying a light wind from the east. There were a couple of short sunny spells in the first hours and the visibility improved to about 12km. However by late morning the wind increased and shifted through south to the west and by early afternoon heavy rain arrived. The temperature hovered around 8-9c. The pressure dropped 12 points during the morning before the rain arrived and the watch was curtailed.
Raptor Observations: The highlight of the morning were two Golden Eagles at 11.14, to the north east. They circled and eventually disappeared in the low clouds. The other raptors were Northern Harrier (2), both hunting over Harrier Island, Sharp-shinned Hawk (2), a single Red-tailed Hawk and a Bald Eagle.
Non-raptor Observations: Slightly lower activity around the tower with fewer species seen. Duck numbers are being maintained and there are still late staying Great Egret (5) and an American White Pelican. Before the clouds closed in there were overflying American Goldfinch (85), Horned Lark (17) and Eastern Bluebird (19). The list is at https://ebird.org/checklist/S203127389
Predictions: The forecast is for a colder day with temperatures at about 3-4c, overcast with a moderate wind from the west. Slight chance of sleet early on. Raptor numbers will likely be low but today proves you never know what might turn up! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
