Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers: Devin Banning
Visitors: While spotting from Forsyth Bridge, a Chautauqua County Deputy Sheriff stopped by to make sure everything was okay. A brief conversation took place explaining that we were monitoring the spring hawk migration. We appreciate their alertness to be sure all was okay.
Weather: Overnight, 2" of snow accumulated at the RHW sites. Snow continued until 9AM, giving way to a clearing of the overcast with blue skies prevailing at Site # 1A where the count began @ 9:30 AM. With the WNW wind and noticing the birds over the field south of Rt 5, a change was made @ 9:45 to Site 1B. Birds were coming directly over I 90, as the overcast returned with fog conditions inland. Wind was averaing 19-20 MPH. After viewing a kettle of over 20 TV's from Site 2B, the wind shifted to NNW and the birds were moving inland. From 10:40 AM - 12:00 PM, the watch was conducted inland at Site # 2 (Parker Rd). During the 12:00 - 1:00 hour, birds were coming over Rt 20 going slightly inland. Since there was also slight movement over I-90, Devin Banning remained at Site 2, and Mike Ceci returned to Site 1B. There was considerable collaboration between Devin and Mike to avoid duplications. During the period 1:00-1:30, birds were coming in low at the shoreline, prompting a move back to Site 1A. Intermittent light snow occurred at various times of the watch
Raptor Observations: At 11:50 AM, an adult male Northern Harrier was sighted flying very low along the north side of I-90. The Harrier continued it's flight directly in front of Mike Ceci, almost touching Forsyth Rd just north of the Forsyth Bridge, and then swooped down to continue it's flight in the field on the east side of Forsyth Rd. The bird presented a gorgeous view of its rump patch and black wing tips. This is the closest I've viewed a Northern Harrier during my 25+ years of observations at the Ripley Hawk Watch. All in all, Devin and I had a worthwhile day with 159 TV's and a small number of quality raptors.
Non-raptor Observations: Making note of local birds, 1 full adult and 1 immature Bald Eagle were viewed from Site # 2 during the 11:00 - 12:00 hour. There was also a local American Kestrel directly out in front of us, also at Site 2, making a lenghty appearance as it hunted the nearby fields. Thousand of passerines, over 40 American Crows, and at least 100 Ring-billed Gulls were sighted during todays watch.
Predictions: The forecast for Thursday, 03/27/2025 calls for sunshine along with a few afternoon clouds. High of 51F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. With the rising temperatures, somewhat mild SW winds, and some clouds to serve as reference points, it could be a very productive day at the RHW. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
