Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3 hours
Official Counter: Michael Ceci
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: A beautiful spring morning on the South shore of Lake Erie in Chautauqua County NY. The count began at 9:00 AM at Site # 1A (Route 5). With the light NW wind, moves were made within the first 15 minutes to Site 1A (Forsyth Rd); Site 2 (Parker Road); Site 3 (Creamery Road); and Site 4 (Douglas Road). Site 4 is situated beyond the highest point of the regular sites and affords a good view of flights coming further south. From past experience, during the peak season of Broad-Wings, when the wind is NW, we need to view south from a higher elevation of 1370 Ft. Nothing was coming through at Site 4, but we intend to check it throughout the remainder of the 2026 Season.
Raptor Observations: Today's flight was minimal with a total of 16 TV's and 6 raptors. From Site 3, there was a good view of an immature Bald Eagle @ 10:15 AM.
Non-raptor Observations: Non-raptors were very limited today, with a modest number of Blue jays, Canada Geese, and others. As usual, the local TV's and Red Tails were active. The local Bald Eagles were making their way towards the Lake's shoreline.
Predictions: For Friday, 04/24/2026, Partly cloudy skies are forecasted with a high of 64F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Generally, we have limited flights with NE wind. But wind is variabe through our Watch sites. With the higher temperatures and today's very limited numbers, tomorrow holds the potential for decent numbers. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Michael Ceci (<michael.ceci541...>) Ripley Hawk Watch information may be found at: www.facebook.com/groups/3193820734258889/
