Date: 4/23/24 4:44 pm From: Andrew Bechdel <andrewbechdel...> Subject: Tussey Mountain Hawkwatch - April 23rd, 2024
Good Evening Birders,
Today, we enjoyed warm weather, good company, and some late afternoon raptors. Another 5 Bald Eagles soared sky high and migrated straight N, adding some numbers to what has been a below average count this season. Although the Broad-winged Hawk flight never took off (pun intended), Nick spotted our *164th Golden Eagle of the season gliding high over Stone Valley*. This was our 3rd straight day with a GE and we hope to finish off the season strong and keep the streak going until the end!
In other bird news, we had 7 Common Loons and our FOY (and possible first for Tussey Hawkwatch) Wood Duck. The Wood Duck flew low over the ridge late this afternoon and seemed destined for the ever attractive Fairbrook Wetland.
Thanks to our Penn State SEED semester students who joined us during the morning to learn about hawkwatching and raptor migration. Doug Wentzel and Laurie McLaughlin were wonderful to have at the sight as always. And... Doug has, after 23 long awaited years, earned observer status in the hawkcount database. Congratulate him if you see him!
Tomorrow and Thursday do not look auspicious for Broad-wingeds or other raptors. However, Friday could be a great final day for Broad-winged Hawks. I will give a better forecast in the next couple days.
