Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Carol Ralph, Carter Chambers, David Beattie, Ginny Halterman, Ian Teaell, Jim Lewis, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Lana Glass, Richard King, Sarah Zaritsky
Raptor Observations: The flight started early due to moderate winds. A pumpkin-bellied Northern Harrier gave a nice low flyby plus 25 broad-wings before the normal start time. The morning liftoff was moderate with some nice looks at broad-wings but no large groups ever materialized and none were seen in the afternoon. The final broad-wing count for the day was 80.
Totals for other raptors were generally good with highlights including 14 Ospreys, 11 harriers, 55 sharpies, 28 kestrels, and 4 Merlins.
Migrants were high in the afternoon but clouds helped with spotting.
Non-raptor Observations: Morning hike: Philadelphia Vireo, Black-and-white Warbler, 5 American Redstarts, Rose-breasted Grosbeak. https://ebird.org/checklist/S274399369
Hawk Watch: 40 Canada Geese, Philadelphia Vireo, 4 Common Ravens, Red-breasted Nuthatch, 1,000 Common Grackles, Northern Parula, Palm Warbler, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, 27 monarchs. https://ebird.org/checklist/S274528145
New species for season: Common Grackle
Predictions: Tomorrow: Cloudy early then partial clearing. High 76F. Winds E at 5-10mph. Cloudy skies and light winds may delay the start of the flight, but the migration should be moderate once it gets going. The clouds will help with spotting. Easterly winds are less favorable for broad-wings, but this time of year we can always be surprised.
Monday: A few passing clouds, otherwise sunny. High 78F. Winds SE at 5-10mph.
Tuesday:Partly cloudy. High 84F. Winds SSW at 5-10mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
