Date: 10/3/26 3:28 pm From: <reports...> Subject: [birders] Detroit River Hawk Watch (03 Oct 2026) 1170 Raptors
Detroit River Hawk Watch Brownstown, Michigan, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 03, 2026 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Gracie Sangmeister
Observers: Andrew Sturgess, Bella Maiwurm, Bill Peregord, Don Sherwood, Michelle Peregord
Weather: Bright sunny skies, temps in the low 50s in the morning jumping up to mid 60s by the afternoon, and north wind swinging around to ESE towards the end of the day. Absolutely beautiful early fall day, and no signs whatsoever of the pile driver still being active across the channel, fingers crossed they are done for good!
Raptor Observations: The forecast was looking promising for today, and birds did we get. Today was the first four digit bird day we have had since the peak of broad-wings last month, and biggest day of turkey vultures to date. Quiet in the first hour of the count, but then flight stayed steady for most of the day. Kettles of turkey vultures dotted the skyline while sharpies, red-tails, and kestrels streamed through. A few last straggler broad-wings were still making their way south, and the third red-shoulder of the season was seen right at the end of the day, flying high overhead of the picnic tables. Some more peregrine action than we're used to was a nice sight to see as well.
Non-raptor Observations: Our best blue jay flight of the season occurred today with 8,972 flying by, continuing through the entire course of the day. The normal lot was out and about, and the american white pelicans were back in all their glory, flying around and showing off to all the visitors. A common loon flew by in the distance, and the great egret has returned to his log. 24 monarchs were also counted, who need to get a move on if they are going to make it south for the winter!
Predictions: Sunny, high near 70, and calm wind in the morning becoming more west around 5mph in the afternoon. Not looking as promising as today was, but we will see what birds decide to show up. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Erika Van Kirk (<erika_vankirk...>) Detroit River Hawk Watch information may be found at: http://www.detroitriverhawkwatch.org
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