Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Forecasted S/SW winds never materialized. For the entirety of today's watch, the wind was N to N/W at various speeds. There was no definitive flight line, as the birds were spread from Route 5 inland 1.8 miles to the cell tower (Site 4) At the start of the Watch, temperature was -2.2C and increased to -.555 when the Watch concluded @ 3:00 PM. For the entire day, it was necessary to change sites, depending on the movement. As the cloud cover decreased, the flight was somewhat predictable, as the birds used the thermals over Rt 20, I-90, and Rt 5
Raptor Observations: As the day progressed, the count increased due to improved weather conditions. The largest flight of TV's was 123 during the 1:00 - 2:00 hour. Due to the height and distance, several raptors could not be identified.
Non-raptor Observations: Throughout the day, there was a steady presence of local Bald Eagles, Red-Tailed hawks, and an AK that was hovering over the field west of Site # 2. Non-raptors included American Crows, and a variety of passerines.
Predictions: For Sunday, 03/29/2026: partly to mostly cloudy. Much warmer. High 51F. S and SW winds are predicted for most of the day, causing optimism for a meaningful flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
