Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers: Janet Chew, Paul Baglia
Visitors: None
Weather: Despite showers starting at 8:30 AM. we decided to open the Watch @ 9:15 AM at Site 1A, with the hope the rain would subside. Upon arrival, there was rain, heavy at times, thick fog inland, and variable winds with gusts up to 15 MPH. Initial temperature at Site 1A was 48.6(f). .17" of precipitation accumulated from 9:15 AM - 10:00 AM.
Raptor Observations: There were no local or migrating raptors until the 11:00 -12:00 hour.. With the west wind and difficult viewing because of the fog, moves inland were made starting at 11 AM to site 1B, then to Site 2, and finally to Site 3. Janet Chew arrived at Site 1A at during the 11:00 hour, while I remained at Site 3. Small numbers of TV's were sighted at the escarpment and down below through the low areas of Site 2. In the meantime, Janet noticed a surge of TV's directly out front and low at Site 1A. So, that was the site where we met and continued the Watch until 3:00 PM. Paul Baglia joined us from 1:00 - 3:00 and kept a watchful eye on the shoreline as birds were coming in at two distinctive lines. The first was between the field towards the center of Site 1A, and the 2nd was along the shoreline.
Non-raptor Observations: Gulls were grounded in the field on the south side of Rt 5 at Site 1A upon arrival where they remained until a partial clearing began during the 11:00 hour. A local adult Bald Eagle was spotted over Site 1A @ 1:56 PM
Predictions: Mostly cloudy early, then afternoon sunshine. High 37F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Certainly, the prediction doesn't hold a lot of promise for a sizable flight. But after today's somewhat light flight, it's possible the migration of raptors will push through with the afternoon's sunshine. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
