Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Hugh Kent
Observers: Bob Hall-Brooks, Karen Padbury, Kitty Bradshaw, Liz Kent, Mike Jaber, Noel Herdman, Patrick Tomlinson, Peter Veighey, Steve Wagner, Tim Jarrold
Visitors: Thanks to a whole rake of people who assisted with the count: Bob, Karen, Kitty, Liz, Mike, Noel, Patrick, Peter, Steve and Tim, making the Official Counter's job a lot easier. It was good to see Christine again, together with John,Claire and Brian and Josh who all enjoyed spotting birds and the spectacle of the start of Blue Jay migration. It was also good to meet Rosemary and Darrel from Waterlooville and Brian and Penny.
Weather: Similar to yesterday with light winds from the north turning south just before midday. Temperature rose to an uncomfortable 28c. Clear skies for most of morning with partial cloud in the afternoon. Hazy at times.
Raptor Observations: A good day with just below a thousand raptors seen. Sharp-shinned Hawks (474) took the top spot with Broad-winged Hawks (435) following closely. Reasonable numbers of Northern Harrier (37) and American Kestrels (22) were counted over the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Slightly better diversity today but still a lack of warblers and vireos. No sparrows as well. But American Pelicans showed up again, so it can't be all bad. 68 Monarchs seen (same as yesterday). The list is at https://ebird.org/checklist/S273940755
Predictions: Tomorrow's forecast is for clear skies accompanied by a moderate wind from the west. Temperatures rising to 25c similar to today. As the wind is from the west big numbers of Broadwings are unlikely, but hopefully Sharp-shinned and kestrels will continue to move. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Hugh Kent (<Hughnkent...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
