Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Bob Crandall, Dale Drexel, Greg Sanda, Jeremy Pete, Kim Steininger, Michelle Gianvecchio, Mike Tetlow, Rosemary Reilly
Visitors: 12
Weather: Cloudy early then a period of mid-morning snow for about a half hour that forced us to retreat to our cars. After that the day alternated between partly to mostly sunny and snow squalls. Winds went from moderate southwest to gusty WSW. Temperatures slightly above freezing.
Raptor Observations: A slow start to the day due to poor weather but a steady flight picked up in the late-morning and continued through most of the afternoon. We had the biggest Turkey Vulture flight yet with 176. Also the highest total with 22 Bald Eagles. Small numbers of harriers (6), sharpies (2), and Coops (7). Good Buteo migration with 35 Red-shouldered Hawks and 43 Red-tailed Hawks, plus four Rough-legged Hawks. For falcons we had two kestrels.
Much of the early flight was out towards the lake but later in the day it was more balanced between lake-side overhead, and parkway-side. Some migrants stayed low because of the strong winds but there were also many high ones, especially the Buteos.
Strong Snow Goose migration throughout the whole day. A large number of Canada Geese on the bay in the morning then a small amount of migration. Various groups of Sandhill Cranes up to 5 individuals, with a high count of 9 seen at one time. The bay continued to hold a large number of ducks with a good variety.
Predictions: Tomorrow: Cloudy with gusty winds. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 34F. Winds W at 20-30mph. The strong wind and cold temps will make viewing difficult and uncomfortable. The winds are slightly less favorable than today with a straight west wind. The lack of sun can also reduce the amount of migration. Regardless, I would expect some birds to push through. Expect light to moderate migration.
Monday: Generally sunny. High 44F. Winds WSW at 15-25mph. This looks like the best day coming up. Expect moderate to good migration!
Tuesday: Cloudy. High 44F. Winds W at 10-15mph. Expect moderate migration. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Braddock Bay information may be found at: http://www.bbrr.org/
