Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Paul Gosselin
Observers: Mike Jaber, Robin Smallwood
Visitors: Thanks to Paul for taking on offical counter duties today, with observer assistance provided by Mike and Robin. Great to see Lou & Toni, Christine H., Amanda, Kate, and Joanne who all visited the tower today.
Weather: The day started off cold and clear, with winds from the northwest. Unfortunately that wind direction wouldn't last long, gradually shifting all the way to southeast. Cloud cover was minimal throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Due to poor wind direction, raptors were migrating further north today; great effort was required to spot them from the tower. Turkey Vultures led the pack (140), followed by Red-tailed Hawks (37). Four Golden Eagles made an appearance, as did a late-migrating Osprey. The closest raptor of the day proved to be an adult Red-shoulderd Hawk that flew over during the last hour of the count.
Non-raptor Observations: Large numbers of waterfowl on the marsh today; Cedar Waxwings flew over in good numbers (770), and blackbird species numbered 1780. The eBird report can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S282638925
Predictions: Cloudy and a touch warmer to begin the count tomorrow; SW winds won't make it any easier than today however. A 40% chance of rain later in the morning, becoming sunny in the afternoon. Let's hope for more Golden Eagles and Rough-legged Hawks. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Chad Cornish (<mail...>) Holiday Beach Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://hbmo.ca/
