Date: 10/17/18 8:06 pm From: sally o'byrne <salobyrne...> Subject: [de-birds] Raptor banding at Little Gap, PA
I’ll be leading a trip to a raptor banding station that is located along the Appalachian Trail on Monday - details are below. If you are interested, please register before Friday with Delaware Nature Society. I went up yesterday (Tuesday) and had a great time - the weather looks good for Monday as well. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sally O'Byrne
Monday, Oct 22, 7:30am - 5:30pm
Visit the Little Gap Bird Observatory Banding station with Sally O’Byrne and the Delaware Nature Society. Learn how raptors are caught using mist nets and bow traps and what we learn from banding. Conditions should be good, so hope to see a variety of raptors ´up close and personal.' If conditions are not ideal, we will head to Hawk Mountain for a hike to North Lookout to experience the migration. Led by Sally O’Byrne
Members: $50 Others:$ $60
Van transportaion provided from Ashland Nature Center 3511 Barley Mill Road Hockessin, DE 19707
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 10.25 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 5
Weather: Mostly sunny with strong west winds.
Raptor Observations: Great migration again. Multiple bald eagles in sight pretty much the whole day. A strong Accip flight with 84 sharpies and 30 Coops. Buteos included 5 red-shoulders, 3 broad-wings, and 19 red-tails. Falcons were 12 kestrels and 4 merlins.
Non-raptor Observations: New for season: Savannah sparrow
300 Canada geese, 2 common loons, 40 double-crested cormorants, 2 common ravens, 30 purple finches, 2 pine siskins, 3 monarchs
Predictions: Mostly sunny. Winds WNW@14 gusting 22mph. High around 52. Overall very similar to today so it should be another great day! ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 10/17/18 8:19 am From: Julian, Richard (DNREC) <Richard.Julian...> Subject: [de-birds] Cape Henlopen Tuesday Bird Walk Result 10/16
Hiked the Gordons Pond trail to bird and seek out the Reddish Egret. Reddish egret was sighted far off in the marsh across from the north end of Gordons Pond. Later that afternoon Kevin B. sighted it in the pond on the shore near the closer island at the north end. No sighting of the young white Ibises. Other cool spectacle was watching a young bald eagle try to grab a double-crested cormorant in the pond. Cormorant 1, Eagle 0. Cormorant was able to dive at each attempt and eagle eventually gave up.
Complete list includes:
Nature Center
Black Scoters (flocks flying overhead) Osprey Cooper's Hawk Mourning Dove Carolina Chickadee Tufted Titmouse Red-breasted Nuthatch Tree Swallows Blue Jay Northern Cardinal House Finch
Gordons Pond Trail (Herring Point to north end of Pond)
Double-crested Cormorants Great Blue Herons Great Egrets Snowy Egrets Reddish Egret Turkey Vultures Snow Geese Canada Geese American Black Ducks Northern Shovelers Northern Pintails Osprey (more) Bald Eagle Northern Harrier American Avocets Greater Yellowlegs Lesser Yellowlegs Willet Sandpiper spp (Least or Semiplamated?) Laughing Gulls' Herring Gulls Forster's Terns Yellow-billed Cuckoo Belted Kingfisher Red-bellied Woodpecker Northern Flicker Blue Jay (more) Tree Swallows (more) Carolina Chickadees (more) Red-breasted Nuthatches (more) Brown-headed Nuthatches Brown Creeper Carolina Wren - heard Golden-crowned Kinglets American Robins Gray Catbirds Northern Mockingbirds Brown Thrasher Yellow-rumped Warblers Pine Warbler American Redstart Eastern Towhee - heard Chipping Sparrows
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Diane Kane, Kevin Bronson, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks Sue, Kevin, Diane, and Kaye for helping with the count today! 22 visitors
Weather: Overcast and cool turning partly cloudy late in the afternoon, temp 14-16C, N,NNW wind 10mph decreasing to 4mph, vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Turkey Vultures moving and a good flight of Sharp-shinned Hawks, 13 Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and an afternoon Kestrel flight. 2 resident Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Lesser Black-backed Gull, Brant, Red-throated Loon, Pintail, Great Blue Heron (8), Cape May Warbler, Pine Siskin, DC Cormorant (440).
Predictions: Cloudy, high 65F, W wind 10-15mph increasing to 20-25mph late in the day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9.75 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Bill Stewart, Dirk Robinson, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 8
Weather: Partly sunny with NW winds that started moderate then slowed in the afternoon. Sky became overcast in the last 2 hours of the count.
Raptor Observations: Great migration conditions. Multiple groups of vultures migrating throughout the day. Many migrant bald eagles plus many not counted. As many as 6 adult bald eagles visible at one time. The Accipiter flight was excellent with 68 sharpies and 39 Coops. A moderate Buteo migration with 14 red-shoulders, 9 red-tails, and one adult broad-wing. For falcons we had 23 kestrels and 3 merlins. One male kestrel perched in a nearby tree and ate a praying mantis as I watched it in the scope.
Non-raptor Observations: New species for season: Pine siskin (1)
1100 Canada geese, 6 common loons, 3 common ravens, 1 red-breasted nuthatch, 25 purple finches, Nashville warbler, black-throated green warbler
Predictions: Mostly sunny with winds W@15 gusting 23mph. High around 62F. Overall these should be decent conditions but the strong winds will make it harder for the smaller hawks and the direction would be better if it would shift from W to NW. Clear skies will make spotting birds difficult as well.
The conditions are looking good again on Thursday and then the winds will shift for Friday and Saturday but Sunday and beyond are looking good again.
======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Susan Gruver
Observers: Ann Dinkel
Visitors: thank you to Ann.
2 visitors
Weather: rain delayed start to the count, wind-SSW/SW--9-13., humid. 99-76%., clcv 100-80%., visb 10-20k.
count ended early due to lack of migration
Raptor Observations: we heard a very different call/screech and it turned out to be two Peregrine Falcons fussing at each as they flew over our heads.
Non-raptor Observations: A huge flock of gulls in a feeding frenzy for most of the day in front of us and one Pomarine Jaeger.
Predictions: high low 60's, wind NW 10-15., cloudy in the am, sunny in the pm ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Date: 10/15/18 1:06 pm From: Christopher Bennett <cpb2564...> Subject: [de-birds] DOS Meeting Wednesday - Osprey Banding in coastal Sussex with Steve Cardano
Hello,
Please join the Delmarva Ornithological Society this Wednesday evening for our monthly meeting at the Ashland Nature Center. Our featured speaker this month is Steve Cardano, Captain with Cape Water Tours and Taxi, who will speak about his more than 40 years of experience banding Ospreys in the Mid-Atlantic in Maryland, Delaware and surrounding states. Our meetings are preceded by a social gathering with refreshments where you can catch up with other members beginning at 7 pm and a short business update beginning at 7:30 pm. This month and next DOS President Anthony Gonzon and Council Member Jean Woods will be on hand beginning at 6:30 pm to field questions about our efforts to revise the Society's bylaws.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Mike Gardner, Sally O'Byrne
Observers: Bill Collins, David Brown, Sally O'Byrne
Visitors: 3
Weather: Overcast with periods of rain and light SSW winds. Count ended an hour early due to rain.
Raptor Observations: Only a few migrant sharp-shinned hawks plus a Cooper's hawk, harrier, and red-tail.
Non-raptor Observations: 10 purple finches
Predictions: Partly sunny. Winds WNW@6 gusting 9mph. High of 58F. It should be pretty good. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 10/15/18 6:37 am From: Rob Blye <rwblye...> Subject: [de-birds]
Mariano,
You can keep hummingbird feeders up into December as long as they don't
freeze (or you bring them in overnight) and you keep them clean.
Availability of a feeder will not encourage ruby-throats to delay migration
but will provide a food source for errant Rufous hummers if they happen by.
This information is confirmed by Scott Weidensaul, humming bird bander and
noted natural history author.
*Rob*
Robert W. Blye
34603 Doe Run
Lewes DE 19958-3332
302 945-8618
610 213-2413 mobile
On Sun, Oct 14, 2018 at 6:24 PM Mariano Mazal <mariano.mazal...>
wrote:
> Hello Rob, Diane,
>
> We have been also looking for signs of any late migrants at the feeders.
> Just caught sight of one today morning. Based on Diane's suggestion, we
> could count on unusual migration activity well into Novermber? With the
> extremely long balmy weather, we have tons of late-blooming salvias and
> lonicera to augment the food choices, but we do not want to miss any
> chances to support late arrivals or stray specimens of the sort that you
> speak about. Can anybody confirm a sound time end time to having the
> feeders up?
>
> Thanks,
> Mariano
> Bear, DE
>
> On Sat, Oct 13, 2018 at 4:38 PM Diane Freebery <chickadeedee25...>
> wrote:
>
> > Rob & all - yesterday was the first day this hummer season we did NOT
> have
> > a hummer in our yard. They have all generally looked like RT, but I
> wasn't
> > really looking for anything unusual yet. We have, in the past, had a
> > mature adult Rufous (August 2003), and an immature Annas x calliope
> (Oct
> > - Apr 2012-2013).
> >
> > Our feeders are up!!! And we will keep them up & fresh for another month
> > anyway! !!
> >
> > Steve & Diane Freebery
> > Newark, DE
> >
> > On Oct 13, 2018 3:15 PM, "Rob Blye" <rwblye...> wrote:
> >
> > The first western hummingbird of the season has been seen in Montgomery
> > County, Pennsylvania as reported on PA Birds listserv. An attempt was
> made
> > to band it but was unsuccessful. It is within the realm of possibility
> that
> > a *Selasphorus* will show up in Delaware, too.
> >
> > So — keep your feeders filled and your eyes peeled, since this is the
> prime
> > time for western hummingbirds. If you see a hummer that you think might
> not
> > be a rubythroat please post it to DE birds or contact me and I will try
> to
> > arrange for a bander to band it and confirm identification.
> >
> > *Rob*
> >
> > Robert W. Blye
> > 34603 Doe Run
> > Lewes DE 19958-3332
> > 302 945-8618
> > 610 213-2413 mobile
> >
> > List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...>
> >
> > List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...>
> >
>
> List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...>
>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Nancy Cunningham, Susan Gruver, Victoria Hawk
Visitors: Thanks to Sue, Victoria, Nancy, Ann, Ryan, and Ben for helping with the count today! 38 visitors
Weather: Overcast and cool, temp 16-17C, light SW,N,W,WSW wind, vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Great flight in the late morning then the wind changed and very few were seen in the afternoon. Turkey Vultures, 7 Bald Eagles, several Sharp-shinned Hawks and Cooper's Hawks, a really nice Broad-winged Hawk flight, and Kestrels in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations: Great Blue Heron, Green-winged Teal, Brant, Brown Pelican, Oystercatcher, Junco, White-throated Sparrow, Pine Siskin, DC Cormorant (1,250).
Predictions: Chance of showers, cloudy, high 75F, SW wind 15mph.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
We have been also looking for signs of any late migrants at the feeders.
Just caught sight of one today morning. Based on Diane's suggestion, we
could count on unusual migration activity well into Novermber? With the
extremely long balmy weather, we have tons of late-blooming salvias and
lonicera to augment the food choices, but we do not want to miss any
chances to support late arrivals or stray specimens of the sort that you
speak about. Can anybody confirm a sound time end time to having the
feeders up?
Thanks,
Mariano
Bear, DE
On Sat, Oct 13, 2018 at 4:38 PM Diane Freebery <chickadeedee25...>
wrote:
> Rob & all - yesterday was the first day this hummer season we did NOT have
> a hummer in our yard. They have all generally looked like RT, but I wasn't
> really looking for anything unusual yet. We have, in the past, had a
> mature adult Rufous (August 2003), and an immature Annas x calliope (Oct
> - Apr 2012-2013).
>
> Our feeders are up!!! And we will keep them up & fresh for another month
> anyway! !!
>
> Steve & Diane Freebery
> Newark, DE
>
> On Oct 13, 2018 3:15 PM, "Rob Blye" <rwblye...> wrote:
>
> The first western hummingbird of the season has been seen in Montgomery
> County, Pennsylvania as reported on PA Birds listserv. An attempt was made
> to band it but was unsuccessful. It is within the realm of possibility that
> a *Selasphorus* will show up in Delaware, too.
>
> So — keep your feeders filled and your eyes peeled, since this is the prime
> time for western hummingbirds. If you see a hummer that you think might not
> be a rubythroat please post it to DE birds or contact me and I will try to
> arrange for a bander to band it and confirm identification.
>
> *Rob*
>
> Robert W. Blye
> 34603 Doe Run
> Lewes DE 19958-3332
> 302 945-8618
> 610 213-2413 mobile
>
> List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...>
>
> List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...>
>
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Kim Steininger
Observers: David Brown
Visitors: 5
Weather: Overcast with no wind. Count ended at 12:30 due to lack of activity and approaching rain.
Raptor Observations: Small numbers of migrating sharp-shinned hawks and kestrels. Non-migrant turkey vultures, Cooper's hawk, and bald eagle were also seen.
Predictions: Cloudy with showers. Winds SSW@8 gusting 13mph. Not looking good for hawk migration. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
I neglected to state the time. The first swifts have been entering the pipe at about 6:30. The last one tonight was at 6:53. If you want to join me, I’ll be there about 6:20.
sally
> Begin forwarded message:
>
> From: sally o'byrne <salobyrne...>
> Subject: Wilmington Chimney Swifts
> Date: October 13, 2018 at 10:21:12 PM EDT
> To: Delaware Birding <de-birds...>
>
> This has been a rather lackluster year for numbers of chimney swifts, and last evening after a cold front and a very windy day I expected the numbers to pick up, but they didn’t. A paltry 172 flew into the chimney pipe at Ingleside (11th and Franklin, Wilmington). This evening I didn’t expect much and the sky didn’t appear to be full of birds, but as they started to fall into their roost more kept flying into the area. Much to my surprise, I ended the night with 582 roosting swifts.
>
> Last year the 14th was the best night for numbers, so if anyone would like to check out the Chimney Swift count, I suggest you join me tomorrow night at 11th and Broom.
>
> Sally O'Byrne
This has been a rather lackluster year for numbers of chimney swifts, and last evening after a cold front and a very windy day I expected the numbers to pick up, but they didn’t. A paltry 172 flew into the chimney pipe at Ingleside (11th and Franklin, Wilmington). This evening I didn’t expect much and the sky didn’t appear to be full of birds, but as they started to fall into their roost more kept flying into the area. Much to my surprise, I ended the night with 582 roosting swifts.
Last year the 14th was the best night for numbers, so if anyone would like to check out the Chimney Swift count, I suggest you join me tomorrow night at 11th and Broom.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Kevin Bronson, Susan Gruver, Tom Stock, Victoria Hawk
Visitors: Thanks to Sue, Victoria, Ann, Tom, Alix, and Kevin for helping with the count today! 52 visitors
Weather: Late start due to rain, alternating overcast and clear skies throughout the day, temp 13-16C, light NW,NNW wind with 15mph winds in the afternoon, vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Very active in the late morning then the sky turned overcast and the flight ended. Birds were high overhead and far to the south. Good Turkey Vulture flight, 21 Bald Eagles, a nice Broad-winged Hawk day (for the Cape) with 25, Kestrels and Merlin continue to pass through. Two resident adult Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: Lesser Black-back Gull (2), Am Oystercatcher, Pintail, Wood Duck, Snowy Egret, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, DC Cormorant (140).
Predictions: Partly cloudy, high 64, light NE wind turning S in the afternoon.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.75 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Holly Merker, Jim Lewis, Kim Steininger, Sally O'Byrne
Visitors: 15 plus about 40 from a boy scout group
Weather: Rainy in the morning then mostly cloud. Winds light to moderate from the WNW.
Raptor Observations: Another great day. Especially notable was 120 sharp-shinned hawks. 8 broad-winged hawks including one missing most of its left wing. 29 kestrels. Also about 100 migrating turkey vultures.
Predictions: Mix of sun and clouds. Winds SE@5 gusting 7mph. High of 60F. Probably won't be as good as the last two days but should still be decent. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Rob & all - yesterday was the first day this hummer season we did NOT have
a hummer in our yard. They have all generally looked like RT, but I wasn't
really looking for anything unusual yet. We have, in the past, had a
mature adult Rufous (August 2003), and an immature Annas x calliope (Oct
- Apr 2012-2013).
Our feeders are up!!! And we will keep them up & fresh for another month
anyway! !!
Steve & Diane Freebery
Newark, DE
On Oct 13, 2018 3:15 PM, "Rob Blye" <rwblye...> wrote:
The first western hummingbird of the season has been seen in Montgomery
County, Pennsylvania as reported on PA Birds listserv. An attempt was made
to band it but was unsuccessful. It is within the realm of possibility that
a *Selasphorus* will show up in Delaware, too.
So — keep your feeders filled and your eyes peeled, since this is the prime
time for western hummingbirds. If you see a hummer that you think might not
be a rubythroat please post it to DE birds or contact me and I will try to
arrange for a bander to band it and confirm identification.
*Rob*
Robert W. Blye
34603 Doe Run
Lewes DE 19958-3332
302 945-8618
610 213-2413 mobile
Date: 10/13/18 12:15 pm From: Rob Blye <rwblye...> Subject: [de-birds]
The first western hummingbird of the season has been seen in Montgomery
County, Pennsylvania as reported on PA Birds listserv. An attempt was made
to band it but was unsuccessful. It is within the realm of possibility that
a *Selasphorus* will show up in Delaware, too.
So — keep your feeders filled and your eyes peeled, since this is the prime
time for western hummingbirds. If you see a hummer that you think might not
be a rubythroat please post it to DE birds or contact me and I will try to
arrange for a bander to band it and confirm identification.
*Rob*
Robert W. Blye
34603 Doe Run
Lewes DE 19958-3332
302 945-8618
610 213-2413 mobile
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Andrew Albright, Ann Dinkel, Carol Blye, Chris Rowe, Diane Kane, Rob Blye, Stephanie Warshawsky, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks to all the awesome birders that came out to help today: Sue, Diane, Ann, Doug Gill, Stephanie, Stormy, Chris Rowe, Carol, Rob, Andrew, Eric, and Bill! Visitors include Diane and David Weber, 27 visitors
Weather: Clear skies and cool temps 16-18C, strong, gusty NNW,NW winds 25mph in the morning to 15mph in the late afternoon, vis 18-20km
Raptor Observations: An amazing Kestrel flight today! Falcons were coming across from Cape May all day. Highest single day count since 2010 with 328 Kestrels. Osprey still moving through, 20 Bald Eagles, 39 Merlin and a few Harriers and Peregrines. Very few Accipiters.
Non-raptor Observations: POMARINE JAEGER (dark juvenile), Snow Goose, Oystercatcher (23), Brown Pelican (7), Eastern Phoebe, Least Flycatcher, Am Redstart, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Red-breasted Nuthatch, DC Cormorant (405).
Predictions: Cloudy with chance for showers in the morning, high 62F, NW wind 10-15mph. Conditions look good... ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 18:00:00 Total observation time: 11.25 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Dirk Robinson, Ed Rohrbach, Jeff Chambers, Kim Steininger, Ryan Crane, Sally O'Byrne, Sheila Smith, Sue McLaughlin
Visitors: 15
Weather: Mostly sunny with strong NW winds
Raptor Observations: Great conditions for hawk watching. High totals of many raptor species. Especially notable were bald eagle (32), northern harrier (10), sharp-shinned hawk (85), Cooper's hawk (29), and American kestrel (52).
Predictions: A chance of morning showers. Mostly cloudy. Winds W@7 gusting 12mph. Not quite as favorable as previously predicted but should still be decent. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: David Beattie
Visitors: 3
Weather: Rainy in the morning then mostly cloudy. Winds light to moderate from the SW.
Raptor Observations: Sharpies, kestrels, and ospreys in the late morning. The flight slowed considerably in the afternoon. A peregrine falcon soared around and glided off at the end of the count.
Predictions: Partly cloudy then clear. Winds NW@14 gusting 26mph. High 64F. Looking like excellent conditions for a long day of fall hawk watching. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Sally O'Byrne
Visitors: 30, including a group of about 20 students that Joe Sebastiani brought by
Weather: Foggy and overcast in the morning becoming partly sunny in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Continuing good numbers of Accipiters and falcons. Starting to see some late-season migration with red-shoulders, red-tails, and large migrating kettles of vultures. One broad-winged hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: 2 common ravens, 8 purple finches, American redstart, Cape May warbler, 15 monarchs
Predictions: Rain. Count will probably not be held.
Friday could be good with very strong NW winds. Saturday is looking good as well. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Raptor Observations: Vultures and Osprey, 8 Bald Eagles, Harriers and a few Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks, several Peregrine Falcons. 2 resident adult Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: Brown Pelican (10), Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Loon, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Golden-crowned Kinglet.
Predictions: Showers with periods of heavy rain, high 80F, S wind 10-15mph We may get a couple hours in during the morning, but it looks like a rain out. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Date: 10/10/18 9:08 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] 10/11 Bird Walk at Abbott's Mill Nature Center, Milford, DE
Novice and Experts Welcome! Join us Thursday morning, October 11, 2018: 8:30am for a FREE Bird Walk at Abbott's Mill Nature Center. Meet at 15411 Abbotts Pond Road, Milford, DE 19947. Binoculars are available for borrow. For more information contact the office at (302) 422-0847. Note: Wet trails; wear water proof boots. Rain will cancel.
Date: 10/10/18 8:50 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] Bird Banding Program 10/13/18 at Abbott's Mill Nature Center
Join DNS staff ornithologist Ian Stewart for a FREE Bird Banding program at Abbott's Mill Nature Center on Saturday, Oct. 13: 8:00am to 11:00am. Meet at 15411 Abbotts Pond Road, Milford, DE 19947. For more information please call the office at (302) 422-0847.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Paul Kane, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks to Sue, Paul and Dick for helping with the count today! 31 visitors
Weather: Hot and humind, cloudy skies in the morning, turning partly cloudy in the afternoon, temp 24-29C, very light SE,SSE winds, vis 15-18km
Raptor Observations: Vultures and Osprey moving through, four Bald Eagles, one Harrier, a few Sharp-shinned Hawks and a couple of falcons. 2 resident adult Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Bonaparte's Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Loon, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Cape May Warbler, Savanna Sparrow.
Predictions: Partly cloudy, chance of showers in the afternoon, high 78F, S wind 10-15mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Bob Brown, Eric Hartshaw, Joe Swertinski
Visitors: 7
Weather: Foggy and overcast in the morning becoming partly sunny in the afternoon. Light SW winds.
Raptor Observations: Moderate numbers of Accipiters and falcons. More Cooper's hawks than Sharpies again. Still getting broad-winged hawks (14). An adult peregrine falcon came over low in the afternoon and soared around for 15 minutes before streaming off. A merlin ripped by at treetop level as I headed down the hill at the end of the day.
Predictions: Mostly cloudy. Warm and humid. High of 81F. Winds SSE@6 gusting 8mph. I expect low to moderate migration.
Friday and Saturday are looking like the next potentially great days. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Susan Gruver
Observers: Alissa Kegelman, Art Zdancewic, Bruce Peterjohn
Visitors: thank you to Bruce, Art and Alissa. 21 visitors
Weather: temp. 26-29c, wind E/ENE/E 3-7, clcv 100/50/30/100%, visb. 5-10k., fog in the morning then hazy. warm and humid
Raptor Observations: not a lot of migration today. Few Osprey, B. Eagles and Peregrines
Non-raptor Observations: Cape May, Palm, Pine Warblers, 38-Great Blue Heron, Yellow-Billed Cuckoo, Gadwall, Ruby-Crowned Kinglet
Predictions: fog in the morning, drizzle, mostly cloudy, 80, SE winds 5-10 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown, Joe Sebastiani, Kim Steininger
Observers: Bill Collins, David Brown, Joe Russell, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski
Visitors: 3
Weather: Overcast and foggy with light easterly winds. Count ended at 2pm due to conditions not conducive to migration.
Raptor Observations: A nice flight of Cooper's hawk early plus a few sharpies and falcons and one harrier. By the afternoon the flight had completely stopped.
Non-raptor Observations: New for season: Swamp sparrow
Red-breasted nuthatch, 3 purple finches, American redstart, Cape May warbler, 26 monarchs
Predictions: Warm and humid. Cloudy then some sun. High of 80F. Winds S@6 gusting 8mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 10/7/18 5:00 pm From: Andy Ednie, Claymont, DE. <ednieap...> Subject: [de-birds]
Sorry this is out late, had a problem with my computer!
APE
RBA
* Delaware
* Statewide
*October 5, 2018
* DEST1810.05
*Birds mentioned
Snow Goose
Brant
Mute Swan
RUDDY SHELDUCK
Blue winged Teal
American Wigeon
Gadwall
Northern Pintail
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Black Scoter
Surf Scoter
Northern Bobwhite
Wild Turkey
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Common Nighthawk
Virginia Rail
Sora
Common Gallinule
American Oystercatcher
American Avocet
Black-bellied Plover
American Golden Plover
Semipalmated Plover
Marbled Godwit
Hudsonian Godwit
Ruddy Turnstone
Sanderling
Dunlin
Stilt Sandpiper
White-rumped Sandpiper
Pectoral Sandpiper
Western Sandpiper
Long-billed Dowitcher
Short-billed Dowitcher
Spotted Sandpiper
Solitary Sandpiper
Greater Yellowlegs
Willet
Lesser Yellowlegs
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Caspian Tern
Common Tern
Common Loon
Pied-billed Grebe
Brown Pelican
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Snowy Egret
Little Blue Heron
Tricolored Heron
Green Heron
Black-crowned Night Heron
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
WHITE IBIS
Glossy Ibis
MISSISSIPPI KITE
Osprey
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Cooper’s Hawk
Bald Eagle
Broad-winged Hawk
Red-headed Woodpecker
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Pileated Woodpecker
American Kestrel
Merlin
Peregrine Falcon
Eastern Wood Pewee
Eastern Kingbird
Common Raven
White-eyed Vireo
Warbling Vireo
Yellow-throated Vireo
Blue-headed Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Tree Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Winter Wren
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Swainson’s Thrush
Gray-cheeked Thrush
Veery
Wood Thrush
Purple Finch
Savannah Sparrow
Vesper Sparrow
Lincoln’s Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Bobolink
Ovenbird
American Redstart
Black-and-White Warbler
BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER
Nashville Warbler
Tennessee Warbler
CONNECTICUT WARBLER
Cape May Warbler
Northern Parula
Magnolia Warbler
Bay-breasted Warbler
Yellow Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Blackpoll Warbler
Palm Warbler
Pine Warbler
Yellow-rumped warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Green Warbler
Wilson’s Warbler
Canada Warbler
Yellow-breasted Chat
Scarlet Tanager
Summer Tanager
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
Hotline: Birdline Delaware
Date: October 5, 2018
To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE)
Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>)
Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern
New Jersey, Maryland
For Friday, October 5th, this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Natural History in Greenville. The Delaware Annual list increased to 310 this week.
Two MISSISSIPPI KITES were seen flying over Brandywine Hundred near Bellevue State Park on Monday after the cold front passed. These birds have not been relocated unfortunately.
The cold front that pass through last Saturday brought a wave of warblers to Sussex County. The highlight was a BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER found at the point parking lot in Cape Henlopen State Park. The bird was observed to have the black and white striped body with yellow lores. Seen on Saturday morning, it has not been seen since.
Some other warbler highlights included a CONNECTICUT WARBLER at Nanticoke Wildlife Area last Monday, along with NORTHERN PARULA, MAGNOLIA, BAY-BREASTED, and AMERICAN REDSTART. Other highlights included YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, VEERY, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, plus BLUE-HEADED, WHITE-EYED, and RED-EYED VIREO. TENNESSEE WARBLER along with BLACKPOLL, BLACK AND WHITE, PINE and PARULA were founded at Harbison, plus YELLOW-THROATED VIREO, BALTIMORE ORIOLE, and BLUE GROSBEAK. There was a count of 10 RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES coming to the feeder. BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER, along with CAPE MAY, PARULA, and REDSTART plus SCARLET TANAGER were seen at Redden State Forest near Georgetown. A late SUMMER TANAGER was seen on Wednesday.
The previously reported RUDDY SHELDUCK continues at Silver Lake in Rehoboth Beach. This bird is reported to be un-banded, but its origins are still of question. The RUDDY SHELDUCK at Silver Lake was with MALLARDS by the gazebo. The SHELDUCK was joined by 4 SNOW GEESE.
Five immature WHITE IBIS were seen at Gordon’s Pond in Cape Henlopen State Park with GLOSSY IBIS, GREAT EGRET, and 45 SNOW EGRETS. Shorebirds reported included SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, GREATER, and LESSER YELLOWLEGS. A peak count of 12 RED-BREASTED with 2 BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCHES were seen along the trail with BLUE GROSBEAK and SAVANNAH SPARROW. BLACK SCOTER was seen offshore.
BLACK SCOTER, BROWN PELICAN, NORTHERN GANNET, and PARASITIC JAEGER were seen at Herring Point. SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, CASPIAN, and ROYAL TERN with BROWN PELICAN were seen at Cape Henlopen point. A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was seen on Tuesday by the Seaside Nature Center along with RED-EYED VIREO, RED-BREASTED and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH, plus PALM, CAPE MAY, PRAIRIE, and BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER.
Thompson’s Island in Delaware Seashore State Park north of Dewey Beach had late YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO and RED-EYED VIREO on Thursday along with MAGNOLIA, PINE, and YELLOW WARBLER. The woods at Thompson Island produced YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER, RED-BREASTED and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH.
12 BRANT were seen at Indian River Inlet with BROWN PELICANS. RUDDY TURNSTONE and SANDERLING were seen on the jetty. ROYAL and CASPIAN TERNS were seen flying over the inlet. A YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON was seen from the Burtons Island Causeway. BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER was found in the woods at Burtons Island. TRICOLORED HERON was found at Savage’s Ditch in Delaware Seashore State Park north of Indian River Inlet.
BLACK SCOTER, BONAPARTE’S, and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL were found in York Beach south of Bethany. The first BROWN CREEPER of the season was found Tuesday at Bethany Beach Nature Center along with BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH and PALM WARBLER. A late YELLOW-THROATED VIREO was found that Assawoman Wildlife Area near Fenwick Island.
Three juvenile WHITE IBIS were found today at Broadkill Beach in PRIME HOOK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE west of S. Bayshore Rd. SURF SCOTER, CASPIAN, and ROYAL TERN was seen on Delaware Bay at Broadkill. RUDDY TURNSTONE, WILLET with LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL were found on the beach. The first LINCOLN’S SPARROW the season was found by Prime Hook headquarters along with PRAIRIE, PALM, BLACK-THROATED BLUE and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER plus RED-BREASTED and WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH. Other birds reported included BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON, BARRED OWL, and SCARLET TANAGER. YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was reported off of Deep Branch Road. Four TRICOLORED HERONS with 43 SNOWY EGRETS were found at Prime Hook Beach Road on Saturday. Waterfowl included NORTHERN SHOVELER, NORTHERN PINTAIL, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, and GADWALL.
YELLOW BREASTED CHAT, REDSTART and BLACKPOLL WARBLER were found that the dog training area in Milford Neck Wildlife Area on Wednesday. SANDERLING, BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, and ROYAL TERN were seen from Big Stone Beach. A VIRGINIA RAIL was found in the marsh off the Big Stone Beach Road. Warblers reported included CAPE MAY, BAY-BREASTED, BLACKPOLL, MAGNOLIA, PINE, YELLOW-RUMPED, NORTHERN PARULA, and AMERICAN REDSTART. YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER and BLUE-HEADED VIREO were seen along with the NUTHATCH trifecta: WHITE-BREASTED, RED-BREASTED, and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH. A late INDIGO BUNTING was seen at Fredericia, along with NORTHERN BOBWHITE. Warblers seen included BLACK-THROATED BLUE, PALM, CAPE MAY, NASHVILLE, and TENNESSEE WARBLER. RUBY THROATED HUMMINGBIRD and YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER were seen in the yard in Cheswald. A VESPER SPARROW was found Tuesday along with SAVANNAH SPARROWS at Wicks Potato Farm north of Leipsic.
Three AMERICAN BITTERNS along with BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON, SNOWY EGRET, 26 GREAT EGRET, and 23 LITTLE BLUE HERONS are found at the central tower in Little Creek Wildlife Management Area along with AMERICAN WIGEON and AMERICAN COOT. Another LINCOLN’S SPARROW was reported on Tuesday along with RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH. Warblers reported along the central tower road included CAPE MAY, MAGNOLIA, YELLOW, and BLACKPOLL WARBLER.
Two HUDSONIAN and 9 MARBLED GODWITS with 300 AMERICAN AVOCETS were found at Raymond Pool in Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna. Other shorebirds reported included STILT, WHITE-RUMPED, PECTORAL, and WESTERN SANDPIPER, DUNLIN, BLACK-BELLIED, SEMIPALMATED, and AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, WILLET, plus LONG-BILLED and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER. The first flocks of SNOW GEESE have arrived at the refuge, seeing at Sheerness Pool and along Whitehall Neck Road. Other waterfowl included 7 MUTE SWAN, RUDDY DUCK, PIED-BILLED GREBE, and SORA. A LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was seen on Leatherberry Flats opposite Sheerness Pool. PEREGRINE FALCON was seen hunting shorebirds over Raymond Pool. WILD TURKEY was seen walking along Finis Pool Road and NORTHERN BOBWHITE was heard calling by the visitor center. Late passerines included in EASTERN KINGBIRD on Saturday, plus WHITE-EYED VIREO, BLUE GROSBEAK, INDIGO BUNTING, and BOBOLINK. WARBLERS reported included TENNESSEE, PALM, YELLOW, BLACKPOLL, BLACK AND WHITE, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, NORTHERN PARULA, and AMERICAN REDSTART.
An extraordinary AMERICAN AVOCET was seen Tuesday on Newark Reservoir along with SPOTTED SANDPIPER. Waterfowl included 10 NORTHERN SHOVELER and a female BLUE-WINGED TEAL. The first WHITE-THROATED SPARROW of the season was by the reservoir. A CACKLING GOOSE was found at the University of Delaware Ag farm off S. College Ave. along with SOLITARY SANDPIPER and PALM WARBLER.
WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was also reported at Middle Run Natural Area with RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, INDIGO BUNTING, EASTERN WOOD PEEWEE, YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, and BALTIMORE ORIOLE. A late WARBLING VIREO was found plus WHITE-EYED and RED-EYED VIREO. WARBLERS reported included MAGNOLIA, BAY-BREASTED, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, OVENBIRD, TENNESSEE, CAPE MAY, PALM, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, and WILSON’S WARBLER.
LINCOLN’S SPARROW and WINTER WREN were new species at Ashland nature Center along with BLUE-HEADED VIREO, PURPLE FINCH, RUBY-CROWNED and GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET, plus WOOD, GRAY-CHEEKED and SWAINSON’S THRUSH. Late landbirds included BALTIMORE ORIOLE and SCARLET TANAGER. Warblers reported included a late CANADA plus OVENBIRD, REDSTART, CAPE MAY, PALM, MAGNOLIA, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, BLACKBURNIAN, TENNESSEE, NASHVILLE, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, BAY-BREASTED, and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER. RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, SWAINSON’S THRUSH plus SCARLET TANAGER were seen at Coverdale Farms Preserve off Way Road. Warblers reported included BLACKPOLL, CAPE MAY, PINE, and YELLOW-RUMPED. PALM WARBLER and BLUE-HEADED VIREO were seen in the yard near Yorklyn off Center Mill Road.
Another late CANADA WARBLER was found at Hillside Mill Road along Hoopes Reservoir with BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER and RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH. GREEN HERON was seen walking along the shoreline. GREEN HERON was also seen at Brandywine Creek State Park. Landbirds reported included SWAINSON’S THRUSH, RUBY-CROWNED kinglet, plus AMERICAN REDSTART, NORTHERN PARULA, PALM, BLACKPOLL, BLACK AND WHITE, YELLOW, MAGNOLIA, BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER. BROAD-WINGED HAWK and AMERICAN KESTREL were seen at the park on Sunday.
SCARLET TANAGER, WHITE-EYED, and RED-EYED VIREO was seen at Bellevue State Park along with RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH and RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET. Warblers reported included PALM, MAGNOLIA, BLACKPOLL, and BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER. BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLERS were also reported in Brandywine Hundred at Northminster and along Naaman’s Creek. MAGNOLIA WARBLER was reported off of Weldin Road. A YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER was reported near Silverside Road.
A huge flock of 1500 TREE SWALLOWS were reported at the Ashton Tract in Augustine Wildlife Area near Port Penn. Waterfowl included MUTE SWAN and COMMON GALLINULE. SPOTTED SANDPIPER and GREATER YELLOWLEGS were found in the marsh along with flyover CASPIAN TERN. LITTLE BLUE HERON with GREAT EGRET were seen feeding along the edge. RED BREASTED NUTHATCH, MAGNOLIA, and BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER were found in the woods. A BLACKPOLL WARBLER was found at Bay Pointe near Summit Bridge.
A big flight of raptors was seen today at the Ashland Nature Center Hawk Watch including 56 SHARP-SHINNED HAWK, 28 AMERICAN KESTRELS, plus BROAD-WINGED HAWK, MERLIN and PEREGRINE FALCON. There was a good flight of 420 BROAD-WINGS were counted over the weekend, plus 90 OSPREY and 15 BALD EAGLES. All seven species of commonly occurring WOODPECKERS were seen on Saturday at the Hawk Watch including an adult RED-HEADED WOODPECKER plus YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER and PILEATED. A big flight of 400 BLUE JAYS were seen on Sunday. 40 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen on Wednesday evening. New at the Hawkwatch this week was CACKLING and SNOW GOOSE. Other species seen included daily COMMON RAVEN, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and PURPLE FINCH (including a brightly colored male). Warblers reported included MAGNOLIA, BLACKPOLL, PALM, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, YELLOW, TENNESSEE, CAPE MAY, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, and NASHVILLE WARBLER.
Saturday was a banner flight at Cape Henlopen Hawk Watch with 47 BALD EAGLES, 127 SHARP-SHINS, 17 COOPER’S HAWKS, 46 KESTRELS, 27 MERLIN, and an amazing 60 PEREGRINE FALCON. This week there were an incredible 130 BALD EAGLES, 350 OSPREY, and 100 PEREGRINES seen at the hawk platform. A big flight of 116 GREAT BLUE HERONS were seen flying over today plus 30 BROWN PELICANS, BRANT, COMMON LOON, PARASITIC JAEGER, and an AMERICAN COOT sitting on the Atlantic Ocean. Also seen this week was BLACK and SURF SCOTER, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL, COMMON TERN, and AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER. Landbird seen included RED-BREASTED and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH, BLACKPOLL, PRAIRIE, and PINE WARBLER.
Thanks to those that contributed this week, including Hannah Greenberg, Hank Davis, Patrick Carney, Mike Gardner, Gina Sheridan, Carlton Groff, Elaine Wagner, Craig Jeschke, Bob Rufe, Guy Tingos, Anthony Gonzon, Thomas Roth, Kelly Krechmer, Mike Moore, Wayne Longbottom, Tim Freiday, Aaron Reb, Bill Oyler, Richard Julian, Joel Martin, Steve Graff, Scott Northey, Chris Bennett, Phil Thompson, Ryan Crane, John Skibicki, Chris Rowe, Andy and John Dunn, Ian Stewart, Lisa Smith, Megan Kasprzak, Amy and Jim White, Bill Stewart, Kim Steininger, Joe Sebastiani, Ellen and Jake Jacobson, Rob Blye, Sue Gruver, Sharon Lynn, John Long, Joe Swertinski and Joe Russell. Special thanks to our hawk counters, Dave Brown at Ashland Nature Center and Jen Ottinger at Cape Henlopen. Remember, the Birdline needs your sightings. Please call your reports into 302-792-9591 or email <ednieap...> Until next week, this is Andy Ednie wishing you good birding!
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Susan Gruver
Observers: Alissa Kegelman, Art Zdancewic
Visitors: thank you to Art, Alissa and Paula. 41 visitors
Weather: temp. 22-30c., wind SSW/S 6-7.,visb. 15-18c., clcv 100/50/40/10%, A nice flight until wind shifted to the South.
Raptor Observations: many very high flying birds today
Non-raptor Observations: 763 Black Scoter, 455 DCCO's, Red-Breasted Nuthatch
Predictions: partly cloudy, 78 wind ESE 5-10 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Bob Rufe, Kim Steininger
Observers: Bob Rufe, David Brown, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 25
Weather: Overcast with light SW winds.
Raptor Observations: Moderate sharpie and kestrel flight. Three peregrines was a nice highlight. Overall not great conditions for raptor migration.
Non-raptor Observations: Red-headed woodpecker, common raven, magnolia warbler, black-throated blue warbler, palm warbler, 40 monarchs
Predictions: Mostly cloudy, winds E@7 gusting 9, high of 77F ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Kevin Bronson, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks Sue and Kevin for helping with the count! Visitors include John and Andy Dunn 45 visitors
Weather: Overcast, temp 21-22C, light SE winds, vis 18km
Raptor Observations: Mostly Osprey, a few Vultures, four Bald Eagles, a few Kestrels, Merlin and Peregrine Falcons.
Non-raptor Observations: Brown Pelican (16), Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black Scoter, Surf Scoter, Blackpoll Warbler, Red-eyed Vireo, DC Cormorant (610).
Predictions: Mostly cloudy, temp 81F, S wind 10mph ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: David Beattie, Maureen Markow
Visitors: 15
Weather: Overcast with light southerly winds. A brighter period in the early afternoon then dark again with some late day mist.
Raptor Observations: Not great conditions but some Accipiters plus all 3 falcons. Some small groups of broad-winged hawks for a total of 14. Some late day migrant vulture kettles.
Non-raptor Observations: Not much of a morning flight but decent songbird activity in the trees and feeders. Blue-headed vireo, 4 purple finches, Nashville warbler, American redstart, Magnolia warbler, bay-breasted warbler, 2 palm warblers, 10 yellow-rumped warblers, black-throated green warbler
Predictions: Low clouds and fog in the morning then some sun. Winds SSW@6 gusting 8. High of 81F. Sounds mediocre. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Bob Brown, Bobby Brown, Deb Brown, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 9, including 6 from my family
Weather: Overcast with moderate NE winds in the morning that calmed by the afternoon. A brief period of rain in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: We had a good flight of Accipiters and falcons with 56 sharpies and 28 kestrels. A small number of broad-winged hawks continues (8). A few turkey vultures were counted as migrants in the morning. We had great looks at a few non-migrants including an adult bald eagle and a Cooper's hawk. Most migrants were easily visible naked eye against the overcast skies and were fairly low.
Non-raptor Observations: New for season: American black duck (2), Cackling goose (2)
An amazing non-raptor flight. 1,800 Canada geese, 1,400 blue jays, 80+ purple finches(!), black-and-white warbler, Cape May warbler, northern parula, palm warbler, 20+ yellow-rumped warblers, black-throated green warbler, blackpoll warbler, blue-headed vireo, 59 monarchs
Predictions: Cloudy with winds ESE@6 gusting 8mph. High of 71F. Probably won't be great but might be some migration if the winds stay strong enough, though the direction isn't great. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Dennis Foley, Diane Kane, Paul Kane, Stephanie Warshawsky, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks to Sue, Paul, Diane, Paula, Dennis, Stephanie, and Dick for helping with the count! 34 visitors
Weather: overcast, temp 21C, NE,ENE,E wind 10mph, vis 18km low cloud ceiling and drizzle in the late afternoon
Raptor Observations: Not a lot of raptor activity. Mostly Osprey, two Bald Eagles, a couple of Merlin and 9 Peregrines. 2 resident adult Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Awesome day for seawatch! We had the best Great Blue Heron migration I have seen at Henlopen with 116 for the day. DC Cormorant (1,820), Brown Pelican (30), Brant, Common Loon, Parasitic Jaeger, one Am Coot sitting on the water, one Kingfisher.
Predictions: Chance of rain in the morning, temp 71F, E wind 10mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Date: 10/4/18 6:43 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] The Big Sit and the inaugural October Big Day
Hi all,
This Saturday (October 6th) the ‘Big Sit’ is being held at the Delaware
Nature Society’s annual ‘Harvest Moon Festival at Coverdale Farm Preserve
in Greenville, Delaware. The Big Sit is a fun, informal competition where
you simply record all species seen or heard while remaining within a 17
meter circle. It’s a relaxing way to spend a few hours in a beautiful
setting as we will be set up at the DOS table.
‘This is a week earlier than the official Big Sit!’ I hear you cry, but we
moved it up to this weekend so that it would coincide with this popular
festival (link below) and also the first ever October Big Day, where people
all over the world report their sightings to eBird in order to obtain a
global snapshot of bird distribution. Also, this month’s eBird challenge is
to enter 3 checklists on October Big Day, so why not make the Coverdale Big
Sit one of those checklists?!
Entrance to Harvest Moon is free if you are a DNS member (or become one on
the day) or if you are willing to volunteer as an official Big Sit counter
or volunteer to staff the DOS table for a few hours and talk to visitors
about the society and hand out promotional materials. If you would like to
volunteer as a Big Sit counter or at the DOS table please let me know at
<istew...> and I will pass on your name to the people at the front desk.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thank you Sue and Bill for helping with the count today! 36 visitors
Weather: Clear skies in the morning turning partly cloudy in the afternoon, temp 24-26C, S,SSE wind 10mph, hazy with vis 10-15km
Raptor Observations: Slow day with the south wind, several Vultures moving through, Osprey, eight Bald Eagles, a couple of Red-shouldered Hawks, one Peregrine. 2 resident adult eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Brant, Brown Pelican (14), Chimney Swift, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Red-breasted Nuthatch, DC Cormorant (210).
Predictions: Cloudy, high 72F, northeast wind 15mph. Should be better than today.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Carol Spease, Ed Rohrbach
Visitors: 3 plus about 40 school children
Weather: Foggy then overcast in the morning. Mostly sunny in the afternoon. Light SW winds. Hot
Raptor Observations: Moderate falcon and Accipiter migration. An adult peregrine was a nice highlight during an otherwise slow morning. A few broad-wings are still trickling through.
Predictions: Mostly sunny. Winds NNE@6 gusting 9mph. High of 71F. Should be decent. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 10/4/18 8:33 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] Abbott's Mill Bird Walk on Thurs. Oct. 4, 2018
At Abbott's Mill Nature Center this morning, our keen crew of 6 recorded the following species: Red-shouldered Hawk Turkey Vulture Northern Cardinal Eastern Bluebird Blue Grosbeak American Robin Chipping Sparrow Field Sparrow Red-bellied Woodpecker Blue Jay Mourning Dove European Starling Chimney Swift Double-crested cormorants Osprey Eastern Phoebe American Goldfinch White-breasted Nuthatch Carolina Chickadee Until next Thurs. Oct 11-Eyes to the Sky .....Alice Carolina Wren
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Dirk Robinson, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 12
Weather: Mostly sunny with light NW winds.
Raptor Observations: Great conditions for raptor migration. Two adult red-shouldered hawks perched together on the kestrel box. A juvenile broad-winged hawks soared over low in the morning. The Accipiter flight was very strong in the afternoon but the flight height made spotting and identification very difficult.
Non-raptor Observations: New for season: white-throated sparrow
40 common nighthawks, common raven, 2 purple finch, American redstart, 2 blackpoll warbler, black-throated green warbler, 145 monarchs
Predictions: Mix of sun and clouds. Winds SSW@6 gusting 9mph. High of 83F. The unfavorable winds will probably make it a slow day for migrants. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Susan Gruver, Vincent Gambal
Visitors: Thanks Sue, Paula, Vince, Ann and Bill for helping with the count! Visitors include Bill and Sally Fintel and their Lifelong Learning Birding Class 36 visitors
Weather: Clear skies, warm with temps 23-25C, light NW,N,NNE winds, hazy with vis 15km
Raptor Observations: Tough to find the birds in the big, blue sky today. Ospreys, six Bald Eagles, several Accipiters and a few Falcons still moving through. 2 resident adult Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Parasitic Jaeger, Black Scoter, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Tern, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Pine Warbler. Monarchs 54
Predictions: Sunny, high 85F, S wind 5-10mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Date: 10/3/18 9:47 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] Bird Walk at Abbott's Mill, Milford, DE on 10/4/18 morning
Join bird enthusiasts, novice to expert, for a free Bird Walk at Abbott's Mill Nature Center on Thursday, October 4: 8:30-10:00am. Bring a friend. Binoculars available to borrow. Meet in the parking lot at 15411 Abbotts Pond Road, Milford, DE. For more information call (302) 422-0847. PS Wet grass trails -wear comfortable/waterproof shoes/boots.
Date: 10/3/18 2:31 am From: J Pat Valentik <jettpakk...> Subject: Re: [de-birds] Fw: Strange small heron
Decided it was a pure albino. Still not sure of the species. It was climbing around on the rock jetty on the north side of of the inlet. Thanks for the reply. J P.
On 9:10PM, Tue, Oct 2, 2018 Bell, Tyler < <00000603aadf1a87-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> This went to the wrong email address and I didn't see this before sunset. > Now in the FWIW category. > > > Tyler Bell > <belljt...> > California, Maryland > > > ________________________________ > > > ----- Forwarded Message ----- > From: "John P Valentik" <jpatvalentik...> > To: "<DE-BIRDS-request...>" <DE-BIRDS-request...> > Cc: > Sent: Tue, Oct 2, 2018 at 6:15 PM > Subject: Strange small heron > > At Indian River outlet so of Lewes DE. > Lemony yellow legs, lighter on feet. Not a snowy egret. No double > plume. Red eyes and maybe lores. Not a yellowlegs. Body is completely > white. Please call 479 981 0901. On site at 6 07 pm. > > List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...> > --
The Chimney Swifts are putting on a show at Ingleside Retirement apartment (1005 N. Franklin Street, Wilmington). I had 450 drop into the chimney pipe tonight between 6:45 and 7:06. The peak numbers may well be this weekend, and I’ll not be around to count them. The best view is from 11th and Broom - Kar will try to be there a few nights, but if anyone would like to check them out, I”d love to get an idea of how many are using the roost this year. Several years ago, I counted 1375 on a peak night.
If you go and want to try to count them, count as they enter the chimney and have someone else take notes as you shout out numbers.
If you have a roost in your neighborhood, I’d love to hear about it - this is the time to look for one.
Date: 10/2/18 7:15 pm From: Paul Guris <paulagics.com...> Subject: [de-birds] Need More People for the Sat, Nov 10 Cape May Pelagic
I'm cross-posting this to DE-Birds because much of our offshore time may be spent in the waters that Delaware counts for its pelagic zone.
We are still looking for participants for our late fall pelagic sailing from Cape May inlet scheduled for Saturday, November 10. This is a day trip, not an overnighter, and past trips have found this to be a fun time of year to be offshore.
Targets include Manx, Great, and Cory's Shearwater, Northern Fulmar, Red Phalarope, Pomarine and Parasitic Jaeger, Black-legged Kittiwake, Northern Gannet (potentially in large numbers), as well as other seabirds. This can also be a great trip for photographers. We will try to chum in a large flock of gulls behind the boat as we move along which often lures shearwaters and Gannets very close. For some reason Great Shearwaters can be particularly aggressive at this time of year.
The trip is scheduled for 6:00 AM - approx 6:00 PM and the cost is $180. We ask people to arrive at the dock at least 20 minutes before scheduled departure. If you have questions you can check our the Preparations page <http://paulagics.com/preparations> for more information or feel free to contact us.
This went to the wrong email address and I didn't see this before sunset. Now in the FWIW category.
Tyler Bell
<belljt...>
California, Maryland
________________________________
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "John P Valentik" <jpatvalentik...>
To: "<DE-BIRDS-request...>" <DE-BIRDS-request...>
Cc:
Sent: Tue, Oct 2, 2018 at 6:15 PM
Subject: Strange small heron
At Indian River outlet so of Lewes DE.
Lemony yellow legs, lighter on feet. Not a snowy egret. No double plume. Red eyes and maybe lores. Not a yellowlegs. Body is completely white. Please call 479 981 0901. On site at 6 07 pm.
Date: 10/2/18 3:14 pm From: J Pat Valentik <jettpakk...> Subject: Re: [de-birds] Ashland Nature Center (01 Oct 2018) 62 Raptors
Strange small egret at Indian R outlet. Lemony yellow legs. All white body. No double plume. Feet lighter than legs. Red eyes/lores. Call 479 981 0901. On side effects. currently and will be here overnite. J Pat Valentik.
On 5:41PM, Mon, Oct 1, 2018 Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> wrote:
> Ashland Nature Center > Hockessin, Delaware, USA > Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 01, 2018 > ------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total > ------------------ ----------- -------------- -------------- > Black Vulture 0 0 0 > Turkey Vulture 0 0 3 > Osprey 3 3 295 > Bald Eagle 8 8 141 > Northern Harrier 0 0 31 > Sharp-shinned Hawk 25 25 370 > Cooper's Hawk 6 6 128 > Northern Goshawk 0 0 0 > Red-shouldered Hawk 2 2 36 > Broad-winged Hawk 8 8 2280 > Red-tailed Hawk 4 4 27 > Rough-legged Hawk 0 0 0 > Golden Eagle 0 0 0 > American Kestrel 5 5 240 > Merlin 0 0 32 > Peregrine Falcon 0 0 8 > Unknown Accipiter 0 0 25 > Unknown Buteo 0 0 4 > Unknown Falcon 0 0 7 > Unknown Eagle 0 0 0 > Unknown Raptor 1 1 18 > > Total: 62 62 3645 > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Observation start time: 07:00:00 > Observation end time: 15:00:00 > Total observation time: 8 hours > > Official Counter: David Brown, Kim Steininger, Sally O'Byrne > > Observers: David Brown, Jim Lewis > > Visitors: > 13 > > > Weather: > Mostly sunny with light SW winds. > > Raptor Observations: > A slow but steady day with the main migrant being sharp-shinned hawks. > > Non-raptor Observations: > New for season: Snow goose > > 2 ruby-throated hummingbirds, 1 yellow-bellied sapsucker, blue-headed > vireo, multiple red-breasted nuthatches and purple finches, Tennessee > warbler, Cape May warbler, magnolia warbler, 3 yellow-rumped warblers, 4 > black-throated green warblers, > > Predictions: > Partly sunny. Winds SSW@7 gusting 10. There will probably be birds flying > but the headwind will keep the number of migrants modest. > ======================================================================== > Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) > Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: > www.delnature.org > > > More site information at hawkcount.org: > http://hawkcount.org/siteinfo.php?rsite=663 > Count data submitted via Dunkadoo - Project info at: > > https://dunkadoo.org/explore/delmarva-ornithological-society/ashland-hawk-count-fall-2018 > > > > List archives: https://lists.princeton.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=DE-BIRDS > List help: <DE-BIRDS-request...> > --
Predictions: Partly sunny with winds NW@6 gusting 9mph. High of 78F. Should be much better than today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 10/2/18 9:08 am From: Julian, Richard (DNREC) <Richard.Julian...> Subject: [de-birds] Tuesday Oct. 2 Cape Henlopen Bird walk results
The day of the Cuckoo. Not a lot of birds, but we did see at least 2, possibly 3 yellow-billed cuckoos this morning between the Observation Tower and down transmitter road (behind the campground). Complete list includes:
Nature Center
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle
Osprey
Mourning Dove
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Gray Catbird'
Northern Cardinal
House Finch
Campground/Transmitter Road/Walking Dune Trail
Great Egret
Snowy Egret
Turkey Vulture (more)
Osprey (more)
Bald Eagle (more)
Merlin
Peregrine Falcon
Laughing Gull
Rock Dove
Mourning Dove (more)
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Red-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Carolina Chickadee (more)
Tufted Titmouse (more)
Red-breasted Nuthatch (more)
Brown-headed Nuthatch (more)
Carolina Wren (call)
American Robin
Gray Catbird (more)
Pine Warbler
Black and White Warbler
Northern Cardinal (more)
Red-winged Blackbird
Date: 10/2/18 7:42 am From: Curt Davis <curtjdavis...> Subject: [de-birds] American Avocet on Newark Reservoir (New Castle County)
Greetings,
There is an American Avocet (AMAV) on the Newark Reservoir. This might be a good chase bird for many of you since it appears to be the first the eBird record in Delaware north of the canal (my first for New Castle County). It was on the west bank when I arrived at 7:10 and within 10 minutes a Bald Eagle was pursuing it; the AMAV let out a few alarm calls and outflew the BAEA, which continued flying to the northwest. As I was leaving at 9:45, the AMAV was on the south bank right at the water line. I don't think that it will last long since it is easy prey for the raptors and I am sure is anxious to head south.
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: David Brown, Kim Steininger, Sally O'Byrne
Observers: David Brown, Jim Lewis
Visitors: 13
Weather: Mostly sunny with light SW winds.
Raptor Observations: A slow but steady day with the main migrant being sharp-shinned hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: New for season: Snow goose
2 ruby-throated hummingbirds, 1 yellow-bellied sapsucker, blue-headed vireo, multiple red-breasted nuthatches and purple finches, Tennessee warbler, Cape May warbler, magnolia warbler, 3 yellow-rumped warblers, 4 black-throated green warblers,
Predictions: Partly sunny. Winds SSW@7 gusting 10. There will probably be birds flying but the headwind will keep the number of migrants modest. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/30/18 6:58 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] DOS trip report, Fowles of the air
10 of us had a fun morning walking in Mason and Dixon's footsteps along the Penn-Del trail in WCCSP.
Interestingly, nearly all of our birds were in the first half-mile of track where we encountered several good-sized warbler flocks. The very first flock we saw seemed to be circling around an immobile object spotted by Kris Benarcik which we eventually identified as a nighthawk roosting along a branch. It's certainly strange seeing them just sitting there rather than in flight but quite remarkable how well they blend in!
We ended up with 11 species of warbler including great looks at a Cape May perched above us, plus a few warblers we never saw well enough to ID. Other good birds were red-breasted nuthatch, purple finches, blue and rose-breasted grosbeaks, and a large flock of crows mobbing a red-shouldered hawk in a tree by the trail. Remarkably, not a single sparrow (apart from a towhee). The sun came out and it was a great day all around, especially as this was a new spot
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 10.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown, Joe Francis
Observers: David Brown, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 30. Thanks to everyone who helped spot birds today.
Weather: Clear skies with light winds
Raptor Observations: A nice morning liftoff of broad-winged hawks in distant kettles (total of 253). Great day for Accipiters with 38 sharpies and 29 Coops and 10 Unid. Acc. The flight slowed considerable mid-day probably due to the shifting winds and also to difficulty spotting high birds in the blue sky.
Non-raptor Observations: 400 blue jays, 20 common nighthawks, blue-headed vireo, 3 red-breasted nuthatches, ruby-crowned kinglet, 7 purple finches, Nashville warbler, American redstart, Northern parula, magnolia warbler, blackpoll warbler, black-throated blue warbler, palm warbler
Predictions: Mostly sunny. Winds SE@6 gusting 9mph. High of 79F. Sounds like another beautiful day but might be fewer migrants due to the headwind. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Raptor Observations: Osprey'still moving, Sharp-Shinned's, and a few B. Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: 432 DCCO's, 18 Brown Pelican,18-Oyster Catcher's, Red-Breasted and Brown-Headed Nuthatch's
Predictions: high - 80, sw winds 5-10 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Carol Blye, Martin Sokolich, Melody Schultz, Rob Blye, Rob Schroeder, Susan Gruver, Victoria Hawk
Visitors: Thanks to all the awesome folks that came out to help today including Sue, Ann, Melody, Martin, Victoria, Paula, Carol, Rob, Andy, Bill Upton, Rob S., and Bill. Thanks to Anthony and Chris for stopping by with the BOW group, 56 visitors.
Weather: Nice fall day! Partly cloudy, temp 19-26C, light NW,N winds and great visibility of 23km. Good cloudy cover for most of the day to help spot birds.
Raptor Observations: FANTASTIC DAY!! Raptors were coming from every direction, great flight of Osprey and Sharp-shinned Hawks, nice Harrier count, 47 Bald Eagles (best single day count since 2010), great mix of falcons as well with 60 Peregrine Falcons!
Non-raptor Observations: Lesser Black-backed Gull, 18 Brown Pelican, Oystercatcher, Prairie Warbler, Pine Warbler, DC Cormorant (45). Blue Jays and Flickers migrating
Predictions: Much like today, sunny, high 75F, NE wind 5-10mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 11 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Andy Dunn, Carol Ralph, Cindy Bonnes, Dirk Robinson, Jim Lewis, Joe Swertinski, John Dunn, Kim Steininger, Peter Wilner
Visitors: 30
Weather: Mostly sunny with light NW winds.
Raptor Observations: A steady flight most of the day but most birds were extremely high or extremely distant. A few small kettles of broad-wings for a total of 168. A good accipiter flight with 56 sharpies and 19 Coops. A peregrine falcon was seen flying the wrong direction at the very end of the day.
Non-raptor Observations: 100 Canada geese, 35 common nighthawks, 1 ruby-throated hummingbird, all the woodpeckers including red-headed and FOS yellow-bellied sapsucker, 300 blue jays, 2 common ravens, red-breasted nuthatch, 5 purple finches, northern parula, black-throated green warbler
Predictions: Mostly sunny with light NE winds shifting to S by the afternoon. Chance of morning fog. High of 73F ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/29/18 1:28 pm From: Andy Ednie, Claymont, DE. <ednieap...> Subject: [de-birds] RBA: Birdline Delaware, September 28th, 2018
RBA
* Delaware
* Statewide
*September 28, 2018
* DEST1809.28
*Birds mentioned
RUDDY SHELDUCK
Black Scoter
Surf Scoter
Red-breasted Merganser
Northern Bobwhite
Wild Turkey
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Common Nighthawk
Virginia Rail
American Avocet
Black-bellied Plover
American Golden Plover
Semipalmated Plover
Piping Plover
Marbled Godwit
Hudsonian Godwit
Red Knot
White-rumped Sandpiper
Pectoral Sandpiper
Western Sandpiper
BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER
Long-billed Dowitcher
Short-billed Dowitcher
Spotted Sandpiper
Greater Yellowlegs
Lesser Yellowlegs
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Black Tern
Caspian Tern
Common Tern
Black Skimmer
American White Pelican
Brown Pelican
Great Egret
Snowy Egret
Little Blue Heron
Black-crowned Night Heron
WHITE IBIS
Glossy Ibis
Osprey
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Bald Eagle
Broad-winged Hawk
Red-headed Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
American Kestrel
Merlin
Peregrine Falcon
Common Raven
Horned Lark
White-eyed Vireo
Warbling Vireo
Yellow-throated Vireo
Blue-headed Vireo
Purple Martin
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Swainson’s Thrush
Purple Finch
Savannah Sparrow
Seaside Sparrow
Bobolink
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Nashville Warbler
Tennessee Warbler
CONNECTICUT WARBLER
Cape May Warbler
Northern Parula
Magnolia Warbler
Bay-breasted Warbler
Yellow Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Blackpoll Warbler
Palm Warbler
Pine Warbler
Yellow-rumped warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Green Warbler
Wilson’s Warbler
Summer Tanager
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
Hotline: Birdline Delaware
Date: September 28, 2018
To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE)
Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>)
Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern
New Jersey, Maryland
For Friday, September 28th, this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Natural History in Greenville. The Delaware Annual list remains at 308 this week.
Today, a RUDDY SHELDUCK was found at Silver Lake in Rehoboth Beach. This species is normally found in Eurasia, from Asia Minor to the Indian subcontinent. A previous sighting of the species, possibly the same bird, was at Broadkill Marsh in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Milton the summer. The RUDDY SHELDUCK at Silver Lake was with MALLARDS by the gazebo.
There were two more sightings of CONNECTICUT WARBLER this week. One was photographed from a yard in Harbeson on Sunday. Another CONNECTICUT WARBLER was seen near Frederica along with CAPE MAY WARBLER and BOBOLINK. Birds seen at the former location included NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, NASHVILLE, CAPE MAY WARBLER, and RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH.
An AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN was seen Saturday at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna. The previous WHITE PELICAN reported at Thousand Acre Marsh near Delaware City has not been seen all week. There was a peak count of 300 American Avocets, along with 6 GUDSIONIAN and 2 MARBLED GODWITS. Other shorebirds seen included BLACK-BELLIED and SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, LONG and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER, GREATER and LESSER YELLOWLEGS, DUNLIN, plus SPOTTED, WHITE-RUMPED, PECTORAL, and WESTERN SANDPIPER along with the first WILSON’S SNIPE of the season. RED KNOT and BLACK TERN were seen on Saturday along with LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL. Seven PURPLE MARTINS were seen flying over Sheerness pool with a large flock of TREE SWALLOWS. BARN OWL was seen at the visitors center early Thursday morning. PEREGRINE FALCON was photographed at Raymond Pool by the sluice gate. LITTLE BLUE HERON and GLOSSY IBIS continue to be seen among the waders, along with BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON at Bear Swamp. SAVANNAH and SEASIDE SPARROW were reported along the dike road. WILD TURKEY and NORTHERN BOBWHITE continue to be found in the refuge.
A single BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER continues to be seen at Wicks Potato Farm along the Leipsic – Smyrna Road (Route 9), just south of the intersection with Whitehall Neck Road. Two AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVERS continue to be seen along with BLACK-BELLIED and SEMIPALMATED PLOVER. Also seen was PECTORAL and WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER.
Three VIRGINIA RAILS were heard calling in the marsh at Big Stone Beach Road in Milford Neck Wildlife Area. A COMMON TERN was seen along the bayshore at Big Stone Beach. The woods along the roadway produced BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH plus CAPE MAY, BAY-BREASTED, BLACKPOLL, and YELLOW WARBLER. NORTHERN PARULA and PRAIRIE WARBLER were found at the dog training area.
Three WHITE IBIS were found on Saturday at Gordon’s Pond in Cape Henlopen State Park with GREAT and 60 SNOWY EGRETS. PIPING PLOVER was reported at Cape Henlopen Point along with BROWN PELICAN, CASPIAN TERN, and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL. WILD TURKEY was found by the Seaside Nature Center along with CAPE MAY WARBLER, RED-BREASTED and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH.
AMERICAN AVOCET and BLACK SKIMMER were found at Broadkill Marsh. RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was found at Old Landing in Rehoboth Beach. WHITE-EYED VIREO was found at a yard near Lewes along with NORTHERN PARULA, MAGNOLIA, and BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER. SUMMER TANAGER continues to be reported at the Nanticoke Wildlife Area in western Sussex County along with RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH and BOBOLINK.
The first BLUE-HEADED VIREO of the season was reported at Brandywine Creek State Park on Monday along with SCARLET TANAGER and ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK. Warblers seen included WILSON’S, NASHVILLE, MAGNOLIA, CHESTNUT-SIDED, CAPE MAY, and BLACK-THROATED GREEN. A RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH was reported at Winterthur Museum. YELLOW-THROATED VIREO along with CHESTNUT-SIDED, MAGNOLIA, AND PINE WARBLER was found in Bellefonte. NASHVILLE WARBLER and RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH were found along Weldin Road in Brandywine Hundred.
An immature YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER was found in Mount Cuba along Hillside Mill Road near Red Clay Creek. another BLUE-HEADED VIREO was found at Coverdale Farms off Way Road along with SCARLET TANAGER, INDIGO BUNTING, and RUBY-CROWNED KINGET. Warblers seen included PALM, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, BAY-BREASTED, BLACKBURNIAN, and MAGNOLIA.
Warblers reported at Ashland Nature Center included OVENBIRD, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, WILSON’S, NASHVILLE, CAPE MAY, BLACKPOLL, BAY-BREASTED, PRAIRIE, PALM, plus BLACK-THROATED BLUE and GREEN. Other landbirds at Ashland included YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, SWAINSON’S THRUSH, plus WARBLING, YELLOW THROATED, and BLUE-HEADED VIREO. COMMON RAVEN was reported at Auburn Heights State Park in Yorklyn.
Three PURPLE FINCHES were found at Middle Run Natural Area near Newark on Tuesday along with RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, and INDIGO BUNTING. Warbler seen included CAPE MAY, MAGNOLIA, CHESTNUT-SIDED, and BLACK-THROATED GREEN. The first GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET of the season was reported Monday at the Dellaire development off Kirkwood Highway near Newark. BLACKPOLL WARBLER was reported at Bay Pointe near Summit Bridge.
VIRGINIA RAIL and CASPIAN TERN were seen at the Ashton Tract in Augustine Wildlife Area near Port Penn. Landbirds reported included INDIGO BUNTING, YELLOW, MAGNOLIA, and BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER. A SPOTTED SANDPIPER was reported that the Port Penn impoundments along Route 9. A BARRED OWL was found calling at Augustine Creek off Pole Tavern Road.
There was a big flight of hawks at Ashland Nature Center Hawk Watch on Saturday, including 1300 BROAD-WINGS, 38 SHARPS-SHINNED, 44 AMERICAN KESTREL and 15 BALD EAGLES. Over 200 more BROAD-WINGS were seen on Monday. A leucitic BROAD-WINGED HAWK was seen flying in the kettle on Wednesday. COMMON RAVENS continue to be seen nearly daily at the hawk watch. COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen this evening. Other highlights included PURPLE FINCH, TENNESSEE, and CAPE MAY WARBLER.
Cape Henlopen State Park Hawk Watch also had a big flight on Saturday including 250 OSPREY, 15 BALD EAGLES, 22 SHARP-SHINNEDs plus lots of Falcons: 52 AMERICAN KESTREL, 34 MERLIN, and 45 PEREGRINE FALCONS. Cape Henlopen for the month has reported 176 KESTRELS plus 97 MERLIN and approximately 100 PEREGRINES along with 1250 OSPREY. Other highlights at Cape Henlopen hawk watch included the first BRANT of the season along with RED-BREASTED MERGANSER, SURF and BLACK SCOOTER. BROWN PELICAN has been seen almost daily. A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was seen sitting near the hawk watch platform, along with RED-BREASTED and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER.
Thanks to those that contributed this week, including Mike Moore, Wayne Longbottom, Joe Sedransk, Jen Driscoll, Jessica Shahan, Tim Freiday, Nick Pulcinella, John Read, Aaron Reb, Bill Oyler, Richard Julian, Joel Martin, Steve Graff, Scott Northey, Chris Bennett, Phil Thompson, Ryan Crane, John Skibicki, Chris Rowe, Andy and John Dunn, Ian Stewart, Lisa Smith, Megan Kasprzak, Bill Stewart, Kim Steininger, Joe Sebastiani, Ellen and Jake Jacobson, Rob Blye, Sue Gruver, Sharon Lynn, David Fees, John Long, Joe Swertinski and Joe Russell. Special thanks to our hawk counters, Dave Brown at Ashland Nature Center and Jen Ottinger at Cape Henlopen. Remember, the Birdline needs your sightings. Please call your reports into 302-792-9591 or email <ednieap...> Until next week, this is Andy Ednie wishing you good birding!
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Curt Davis, Stephanie Warshsawsky, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thank you Sue, Stephanie, Bill Upton, Curt Davis, and Bill for helping with the count today! 29 visitors
Weather: Overcast, some sun in the late afternoon, temp 19-21C, NW,NNW,N wind 10-15 mph, vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Good Vulture flight in the morning, mostly Ospreys, eleven Bald Eagles, Kestrels, Merlin and Peregrine Falcons. 2 resident adult Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Brown Pelican, Great Blue Heron, Black Scoter, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Kingfisher (2), DC Cormorant (36).
Predictions: Sunny, high 75F, N wind 10mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Dirk Robinson, Joe Sebastiani, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 55, including two groups of school children
Weather: Mostly cloudy with light NE winds. Cool in the morning then warm in the afternoon during periods of sun.
Raptor Observations: A decent flight of Accipiters and falcons as well as ospreys and eagles. 64 broad-winged hawks came through in small groups.
Non-raptor Observations: 10 common nighthawks, 2 ruby-throated hummingbirds, 400 blue jays, 2 common ravens, purple finch, northern parula, 150 monarchs
Predictions: Mostly sunny with winds NW@7 gusting 9 mph. It should be excellent conditions for hawk watching. This might be our last chance at getting a large number of broad-winged hawks. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/27/18 6:45 pm From: Ian Stewart <istew...> Subject: [de-birds] DOS trip Saturday: More fowles of the air
Hear ye, hear ye! During the year of our lord 1765 we were surveying a
mysterious trail through the hidden depths of White Clay Creek State Park
in the 'Welsh Tract' of William Penn's land. We were gladdened to the heart
by goodly views of colorful fowles of the air, too many to describe, and
their songs lifted our weary legs.
This Saturday morning we are returning to the same hallowed trail our feet
trod over 250 years ago in search of more fowles, especially ye migrants.
This gentle perambulation will start at 8 bells and last until 11, when we
may visit a local ale house. Please bring field glasses, provisions and
clay pipes (no muskets allowed in state parks). We meet at horse stop # 1
along London
Tract Road near Landenberg (map below). None of the king's parking taxes
are levied here. If ye be lost, our number be (859) 333-8817.
We are your humble servants,
Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Dennis Foley, Donna Hoyt, John Hoyt, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks to Sue, Dennis, Paula, Donna, John, and Bill for helping with the count today! 27 visitors
Weather: Overcast with low clouds, cooler temps 20-21C, NE,E wind 10mph, vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Mostly Osprey, 8 Bald Eagles, Kestrels, Merlin and a few Peregrine Falcon.
Non-raptor Observations: Red-breasted Merganser, Common Tern, Great Blue Heron (14), Brown Pelican (10), Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-rumped Warbler.
Predictions: Rain in the morning, high 73F, W wind 10mph ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Dirk Robinson, Jeff Chambers, Jim Lewis, Karen Barker, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 2
Weather: The morning was cool and partly sunny with moderate northerly winds. The afternoon became overcast and still.
Raptor Observations: A good flight from the morning into the early afternoon. 17 Cooper's hawks was the first big push of the season. There was a decent Accipiter and falcon flight overall plus a few small groups of broadwings. We counted a few turkey vultures as migrants for the first time this season as well.
No flight for the last few hours of the count when we lost the wind and the skies were overcast. Finished at 99 migrants.
Non-raptor Observations: 250 Canada geese, 1250 blue jays, 2 common ravens, Cape May warbler, yellow-rumped warbler, 90 monarchs
Predictions: Morning showers then cloudy. Some sun in the afternoon. Winds WNW@7 gusting 9mph. High of 72. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Thanks to all birders this morning. We traveled Abbott's Pond side forest and meadow and the following species were recorded: European Starling Turkey Vulture American Crow (call) Northern Mockingbird Fish Crow (call) Chipping Sparrow Great Egret Red-bellied Woodpecker Northern Cardinal Carolina Chickadee Tufted Titmouse Blue Jay Mourning Dove Gray Catbird Black & White Warbler (2) Brown Thrasher Eastern Bluebird Pileated Woodpecker Join us next Thursday, Oct. 4 at 8:30am Until then ...Eyes to the Sky Alice
I’d like to get some good photos from the Cape Henlopen hawk watch to go with the Hawkwatch article for the Flyer this month. Unfortunately, the only day I was there it was foggy and the photos were very dreary. If any of you have photos from the hawk watch platform that you’d be happy to have in the Flyer, please send them to me (or directly to Kelly Smith- <flyer...> -and let me know). Since photos don’t attach to this listserv, please email them to me directly <salobyrne...> <mailto:<salobyrne...> A good osprey photo would be appropriate since that has been the primary bird thus far.
I will absolutely give you photo credit if your photo is used. Thanks so very much,
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Art Zdancewic, Kevin Bronson, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks to Sue, Art, Kevin, Paula, Dick, and Bill for helping with the count! 28 visitors
Weather: Fog in the morning, humid, partly cloudy, temp 24-28C, light SW,SSW,S winds, vis 10-15km
Raptor Observations: Ospreys continue to move through, 6 Bald Eagles, a few Sharp-shinned and Cooper's Hawks, several Peregrine Falcons. 2 resident adult Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Yellow-billed Cuckoo perched near the parking lot, Brown Pelican, Brown-headed Nuthatch.
Predictions: Rain, high 70F, NE wind 20mph May not be much of a count if the rain starts early
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Dirk Robinson, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Peter Wilner
Visitors: 3
Weather: Partly sunny with light to moderate SW winds. Hot and humid.
Raptor Observations: A completely white broad-winged hawk soared with some turkey vultures and then settled back down behind the trees near the right saddle. I was able to obtain distant documentation shots which will be available on eBird.
Otherwise only a few broad-wings. Had a dozen migrating bald eagles plus a few more that I didn't count. Had a small number of Accipiters and falcons. A juvenile red-shouldered hawk streamed high overhead.
Non-raptor Observations: Cape May warbler, common raven, 45 common nighthawks in the evening, 30 monarchs
Predictions: Cloudy and cool with a chance of an afternoon shower. Winds NE@6 gusting 10mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Date: 9/26/18 6:23 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] Abbott's Mill Bird Walk on Thurs. September 27, 2018
Good Morning Birders. Expert and Novice welcome to the Abbott's Mill Nature Center Bird Walk on Thursday morning! Start at 8:30am to 10:00am: meet at 15411 Abbotts Pond Road, Milford, DE. Binoculars available for borrow. With the weather, trails are damp-wear shoes for walking in wet grass. For more information call (302) 422-0847.
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Alissa Kegelman, Art Zdancewic, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thank you Sue, Art, Alissa, and Bill for helping with the count today! Thanks to Chris Bennett for stopping by for a bit. 9 visitors
Weather: Humid and hazy, partly cloudy, temp 24-27C, SE,SSE,S wind 10mph, vis 10-15km
Raptor Observations: Few migrants seen with the southerly winds, a few Vultures, mostly Osprey, two Bald Eagles, several Merlin and Peregrine Falcons. One resident Bald Eagle.
Non-raptor Observations: Brant, Brown Pelican, Common Loon, Black Scoter, Surf Scoter, Brown-headed Nuthatch.
Predictions: Partly sunny, chance for rain, high 82F, SW wind 10mph.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers:
Visitors: 4
Weather: Overcast with light to moderate south winds. Occasional afternoon showers became steady rain, ending the count early.
Raptor Observations: A small number of migrants including 9 ospreys and 5 bald eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: A nice warbler flock passed through the treeline in the morning.
White-eyed vireo, blue-gray gnatcatcher, American redstart, northern parula, chestnut-sided warbler, blackpoll warbler, black-throated green warbler.
Predictions: Cloudy with an afternoon thunderstorm. Winds SSW@8 gusting 12 mph. High around 83F. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown, Joe Sebastiani, Kim Steininger
Observers: David Brown, Joe Sebastiani, Kim Steininger
Visitors: None
Thanks to Kim Steininger (AM) and Joe Sebastiani (PM) for leading the count today.
Weather: Morning rain delayed the start of the count until 10am. After that overcast with moderate to strong SE winds.
Raptor Observations: An excellent morning broad-winged hawk flight with a total of 262 all individuals or small groups. The good flight continued throughout the day with a season high of ospreys (38), bald eagles (15), and northern harriers (6).
Non-raptor Observations: Common raven, 1,500+ blue jays, scarlet tanager, 75 Canada goose, 150 cedar waxwing, herring gull, 15 monarchs
Predictions: Rainy with winds SSE@14 gusting 24mph. High of 76F. Sounds miserable but the strong winds might have some birds moving as long as the rain isn't too heavy. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 10:00:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Susan Gruver
Observers: Alissa Kegelman, Ann Dinkel, Art Zdancewic
Visitors: thank you to Ann,Art and Alissa for braving the wind and rain. visitors-2
Weather: wind ENE-16-18, temp. 19c., clcv 100%, visb. 18k. count ended early due to rain
Raptor Observations: a few Falcons and Osprey braving the winds
Non-raptor Observations: Red-Breasted Nuthatch,
Predictions: 50% chance of am thunder storms, high 80, wind SSE 10-15 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Observation start time: 11:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 2 hours
Official Counter: Susan Gruver
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Art Zdancewic
Visitors: thanks to Ann and Art. 5 visitors
Weather: rain delayed start to the count, then a brief break in the rain, wind ENE, 20-19c., visb 18k., clcv 100%. and then it rained again and ended the count.
Raptor Observations: a few Osprey moving
Non-raptor Observations: Red-Breasted Nuthatches,Yellow-Rumped Warbler, Redstart,3-N. Parulas, Common-Yellow Throats, Catbird, Black and White Warbler
Predictions: more rain. 70% chance of rain, 67, East wind at 15-20 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Predictions: Morning fog. Cloudy with a chance of afternoon rain. Winds ENE@9 gusting 14. High of 66F. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 11 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Andrew Bogush, Carol Ralph, Dan Meyer, Dirk Robinson, Frank Rohrbacher, Gwen Moore, Jim Lewis, Joe Francis, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Martin Sokolich, Matt Sarver, Matt Sileo, Melody Schultz, Noreen Robertson, Pam Hesler, Peter Wilner
Visitors: 45: Norm Lincoln, Micaela Samodelov, Julie Kaeser, Pam Green, Jim Green, Kate Green, Phil H, Meranti family, Terry H, Geno M.
Thanks to all the volunteers and visitors who helped spot birds. Days like today take a lot of eyes and everyone did a great job helping. It was nice to meet former Ashland counter Matt Sileo (2008).
Weather: Partly sunny in the morning becoming overcast in the afternoon. Cooler with moderate to strong north winds.
Raptor Observations: As expected today was a great day for raptor migration. Kettles of broad-winged hawks began to pass over at high altitude starting late morning and continuing through the afternoon until late in the day when kettles passed over low as they settled down for the day. One last broad-wing was seen coming to roost at 5:30pm. The final total of broad-wings was 1311.
We also had a large flight of ospreys (32), bald eagles (13), sharp-shinned hawks (38), and kestrels (44).
Most raptors were very high and required constant scanning with binoculars to spot.
Four kestrels were seen flying together near the saddles just before 6pm but were not counted as migrants.
Non-raptor Observations: 175 Canada geese, 7 common nighthawks, 150 blue jays, northern waterthrush, Tennessee warbler, blue grosbeak, 2 double-crested cormorants, and a constant stream of monarch butterflies (easily 500+)
Predictions: Cloudy with occasional rain. Cool with a high of 64F. Winds NE@5 gusting 7mph. Probably won't be very good and the count might get cancelled or shortened due to rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Raptor Observations: our best flight of Osprey, and the Falcons put on a nice show. 15 B. Eagle and our two residents. Many Osprey and Falcons coming in high over us. Raptors were coming at us in all directions.
Non-raptor Observations: we didn't spend much time on the others, too busy finding the raptors. 9-GBHE, 8 Chimney Swift, Brown-Headed Nuthatches
Predictions: 60% chance of showers, 66, wind NE 10-15 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Date: 9/21/18 8:09 pm From: Andy Ednie, Claymont, DE. <ednieap...> Subject: [de-birds] RBA: Birdline Delaware, September 21st, 2018
RBA
* Delaware
* Statewide
*September 21, 2018
* DEST1809.21
*Birds mentioned
Mute Swan
Blue-winged Teal
Northern Pintail
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Black Scoter
Wild Turkey
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Common Nighthawk
Eastern Whippoorwill
Virginia Rail
Sora
Common Gallinule
American Avocet
American Oystercatcher
Black-bellied Plover
American Golden Plover
Semipalmated Plover
Piping Plover
Hudsonian Godwit
Ruddy Turnstone
Sanderling
Red Knot
White-rumped Sandpiper
Pectoral Sandpiper
Western Sandpiper
Least Sandpiper
Long-billed Dowitcher
Short-billed Dowitcher
Spotted Sandpiper
Solitary Sandpiper
Greater Yellowlegs
Willet
Lesser Yellowlegs
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Black Tern
Least Tern
Caspian Tern
Common Tern
Royal Tern
Black Skimmer
Pied-billed Grebe
Common Loon
Red-throated Loon
Northern Gannet
American White Pelican
Brown Pelican
Great Egret
Snowy Egret
Little Blue Heron
Tricolored Heron
Green Heron
Black-crowned Night Heron
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
WHITE IBIS
Glossy Ibis
Osprey
Northern Harrier
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Bald Eagle
Broad-winged Hawk
Red-headed Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker
American Kestrel
Merlin
Peregrine Falcon
OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER
Eastern Kingbird
Common Raven
Horned Lark
Warbling Vireo
Yellow-throated Vireo
Philadelphia Vireo
Bank Swallow
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
SEDGE WREN
Marsh Wren
Veery
Swainson’s Thrush
American Pipit
American Goldfinch
Purple Finch
Saltmarsh Sparrow
Seaside Sparrow
Bobolink
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Worm-eating Warbler
Brewster’s Warbler
Black and White Warbler
Nashville Warbler
Tennessee Warbler
CONNECTICUT WARBLER
American Redstart
Cape May Warbler
Northern Parula
Magnolia Warbler
Bay-breasted Warbler
Yellow Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Blackpoll Warbler
Palm Warbler
Pine Warbler
Yellow-rumped warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Green Warbler
Canada Warbler
Summer Tanager
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
Hotline: Birdline Delaware
Date: September 21, 2018
To Report: Andy Ednie 302-792-9591 (VOICE)
Compiler: Andy Ednie (<ednieap...>)
Coverage: Delaware, Delmarva Peninsula, nearby Delaware Valley, Southern
New Jersey, Maryland
For the last day of Summer on Friday, September 21st, this is Birdline Delaware from the Delaware Museum of Natural History in Greenville. Finally, Hurricanes Florence and Gordon have moved away to open the flood gates of migration. The Delaware Annual list increased to 308 species, including 23 species of warbler this week.
New this week was a sighting of CONNECTICUT WARBLER at Bay Pointe near Summit Bridge below Glasgow on Wednesday. That bird was photographed in a private yard that has also produced NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, NORTHERN PARULA, and YELLOW WARBLER this week plus a MERLIN. Another CONNECTICUT WARBLER was found dead on the sidewalk in Milford the same day. There was a flurry of CONNECTICUT WARBLER sightings on Wednesday in the region, with reports from Cape May Point and The Villas in New Jersey plus two sightings near Baltimore.
Also new was an unconfirmed report of PACIFIC GOLDEN PLOVER at the Aquatic Education Center near Woodland Beach on Monday. Photographs of this species shows a molting GOLDEN PLOVER with long continuous lateral stripe contrasting the black belly plus predominately white undertail coverts with black spotting. Unfortunately, the photographs do not reveal the length of the tail to wing primary projections which facilitates identification for molting GOLDEN PLOVERS. Hopefully some more photographs will become available. The previously reported pair of SEDGE WRENS continue to be singing in the brush by the Aquatic Education Center off Lighthouse Road.
Wick’s Potato Farm on the Smyrna-Leipsic Road continues to have large numbers of shorebirds present. There was a peak count of 105 SEMIPALMATED PLOVER with BLACK-BELLIED and AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER plus DUNLIN, WHITE-RUMPED, PECTORAL, and WESTERN SANDPIPER. HORNED LARK and AMERICAN PIPIT were seen among the shorebirds.
A pair of HUDSONIAN GODWIT were found Sunday at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Smyrna opposite Sheerness Pool. Other shorebirds reported included AMERICAN AVOCETS, SPOTTED, SOLITARY, STILT, WHITE-RUMPED, PECTORAL, and WESTERN SANDPIPER along with both LONG-BILLED and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER and both GREATER and LESSER YELLOWLEGS. MUTE SWAN was seen at Sheerness Pool along with NORTHERN PINTAIL. Waders included BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON, CATTLE EGRET, and GLOSSY IBIS. Raptors reported included AMERICAN KESTREL, MERLIN, and PEREGRINE FALCON. SEASIDE SPARROWS were seen in the marsh. Warblers along Raymond Neck Road this week included CANADA, CHESTNUT-SIDED, and MAGNOLIA.
Nine species of warbler were seen along the central road in Little Creek Wildlife Management Area on Wednesday including CAPE MAY, MAGNOLIA, and PALM WARBLER plus ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK and lots of RED-EYED VIREOS. RUDDY TURNSTONES and ROYAL TERNS were seen at Port Mahon.
A RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH was reported in downtown Dover near Silver Lake along Hazel Road. BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH continues to be reported at Big Stone Beach Road in Milford Neck Wildlife Area. Warblers reported at Milford Neck included CAPE MAY, NORTHERN PARULA, BAY-BREASTED, YELLOW, BLACKPOLL and PALM WARBLER.
A WHITE IBIS was reported at Oyster Rock Road in Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. A late EASTERN WHIPPOORWILL was calling at Broadkill on Monday evening. LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL and a single RED KNOT were seen on Broadkill Beach. SALTMARSH and SEASIDE SPARROWS along with MARSH WREN, BOBOLINK, and INDIGO BUNTING were seen at Fowler’s Beach. Waterbirds reported included NORTHERN PINTAIL, RUDDY TURNSTONE, SANDERLING, and CASPIAN TERN. The tern flock at Broadkill Marsh included BLACK, CASPIAN, ROYAL, COMMON TERN and BLACK SKIMMER along with AMERICAN AVOCET and another HUDSONIAN GODWIT. There was a peak count of 214 FORSTER’S TERNS along the Prime Hook Beach Road along with 46 GREATER YELLOWLEGS. Waterfowl reported included BLUE-WINGED and GREEN-WINGED TEAL. Four AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS along with BLACK-BILLIED and SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, RUDDY TURNSTONE, SANDERLING, and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER were seen at Mispillion inlet along with 26 CASPIAN and 40 ROYAL TERNS plus 5 BLACK SKIMMERS. PEREGRINE FALCON was seen hunting in the area.
A peak count of 5 PIPING PLOVER were seen at Cape Henlopen Point along with AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER, SANDERLING, SEMIPALMATED, and BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, plus LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL and 16 BROWN PELICANS. Terns reported included FORSTER’S, COMMON, ROYAL, and CASPIAN TERN plus 12 BLACK SKIMMERS. Four BLUE GROSBEAK and YELLOW WARBLER were found in the dunes. Three WILD TURKEYS were seen at the entrance to Cape Henlopen State Park. A late BANK SWALLOW was with 70 TREE SWALLOWS at Gordon’s Pond in Cape Henlopen State Park along with a late EASTERN KINGBIRD on Saturday plus BOBOLINK and BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER. TRICOLORED, GREEN, and LITTLE BLUE HERON plus GLOSSY IBIS and large numbers of GREAT and SNOWY EGRETS were found on the Gordon’s Pond wash flats along with AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER, WESTERN SANDPIPER and both YELLOWLEGS.
Three TRICOLORED HERONS plus YELLOW-CROWNED and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS continue to be seen at Burtons Island Causeway near the North Marina at Indian River Inlet. Two BLACK TERNS were seen feeding at the inlet on Tuesday. A large flock of terns on the beach halfway between the inlet and the lifesaving station included, COMMON TERN, 100 CASPIAN plus 40 ROYAL TERNS. RUDDY TURNSTONE, SANDERLING, and SPOTTED SANDPIPER were found on the Indian River Inlet jetty.
A peak count of 18 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS was seen flying by Fenwick Island along with SANDERLING, WILLET, and 2 LESSER BLACK BACKED GULL. NORTHERN GANNET and BROWN PELICAN were seen offshore. PIED-BILLED GREBE was seen it Assawoman Wildlife Area along with YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, PILEATED WOODPECKER, and BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH. The first PALM WARBLER of the season was found at Assawoman on Sunday.
Four RED-HEADED and PILEATED WOODPECKERS were found at Herring Creek Nature Trail on Angola Neck along the Camp Arrowhead Road, along with BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH. RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH was photographed at a private yard in Harbison along with VEERY. Warblers reported included AMERICAN REDSTART, NORTHERN PARULA, BLACK AND WHITE, MAGNOLIA, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, and PINE. This property also hosted 11 RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRDS. SUMMER TANAGER continues to be seen at the Nanticoke Wildlife Area near Laurel.
BLUE-WINGED TEAL and NORTHERN SHOVELER along with LESSER YELLOWLEGS, LEAST and SPOTTED SANDPIPER were seen at Newark Reservoir on Saturday. Two COMMON RAVENS were seen flying overhead. Other landbirds reported included YELLOW-THROATED VIREO, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, plus PARULA and MAGNOLIA WARBLER. A female BLACK-THROATED BLUE plus CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER were found at Middle Run Natural Area off Possum Park Road. The sunflower field at the University of Delaware ag farm behind Townsend Hall had a peak count of 110 AMERICAN GOLDFINCH.
A late WORM-EATING WARBLER was found at Brandywine Creek State Park at the north end of the Freshwater Marsh Preserve along with NORTHERN PARULA, YELLOW WARBLER, and ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK. VEERY, OVENBIRD, and BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER were found at Bellevue State Park. RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES were reported off Weldin Road in Brandywine Hundred. The first YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER of the season was reported there on Sunday along with MAGNOLIA, CHESTNUT-SIDED, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, and BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES were also reported this last week along Shallcross Avenue in downtown Wilmington near the Delaware Art Museum and at Northminster off Naaman’s Road.
Ashland Nature Center was a hotspot for warbler migration this week. A late BREWSTER’S WARBLER was seen on Saturday along with OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, SWAINSON’S THRUSH, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, plus WARBLING, YELLOW-THROATED, and PHILADELPHIA VIREO. Warblers seen including NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, BLACKPOLL, MAGNOLIA, CHESTNUT-SIDED, CANADA, and NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH. A pair of MARSH WRENS were found at the wet area along the Red Clay Creek at the entrance gate on Tuesday. BLUE GROSBEAKS feeding young were found at Yorklyn Village. A CASPAIN TERN was seen Sunday morning at Hoopes Reservoir.
A BLACK SKIMMER was found at Thousand Acre Marsh on Wednesday along with VIRGINIA RAIL and 2 SORA. An AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN continues to be seen on Cormorant Island from Dutch Neck Road. COMMON GALLINULE and LITTLE BLUE HERON were found at Grier’s Pond. LITTLE BLUE HERON and GLOSSY IBIS were reported at the Ashton tract in Augustine Wildlife Area along with CASPIAN TERN. CASPIAN TERNS and SPOTTED SANDPIPER were found at Augustine Beach.
There was a small flight of 108 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS on Wednesday, which might be the high count this year, along with 36 AMERICAN KESTRELS and 38 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS. A total of 40 BALD EAGLES, 11 MERLIN and 3 PEREGRINE FALCONS were seen at Ashland this week. Other migrants included an adult RED-HEADED WOODPECKER on Thursday, PURPLE FINCH on Sunday and a common loon on Tuesday. Also seen was CAPE MAY and PALM WARBLER, COMMON RAVEN and several flights of COMMON NIGHTHAWKS, including 75 NIGHTHAWKS on Wednesday evening.
There was also a big flight of raptors at the Cape Henlopen Hawk Watch on Wednesday, including 63 KESTRELS, 18 MERLIN and 10 PEREGRINES, along with NORTHERN HARRIER and SHARP-SHINNED HAWK. A total of 525 OSPREY and 50 BALD EAGLES were seen at The Cape this week. Other highlights included the first RED-THROATED LOON of the season, plus BLACK SCOTER, AMERICAN AVOCET, and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS. RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES were reported at the hawk watch daily.
Thanks to those that contributed this week, including Mike Moore, John Taylor, Art Zdanczwic, Matt Sarver, Tim Freiday, Adam Balick, George Armistead, Bert Filemyr, Mike Rosengarten, Ray Hendrick, Arms Hill, Bill Oyler, Brian McCaffrey, Richard Julian, Joel Martin, Steve Graff, Scott Northey, Chris Bennett, Phil Thompson, Ryan Crane, John Skibicki, Chris Rowe, Andy and John Dunn, Ian Stewart, Lisa Smith, Megan Kasprzak, Bill Stewart, Kim Steininger, Judy Montgomery, Amy O’Neil, Joe Sebastiani, Curt Davis, Ellen and Jake Jacobson, Rob Blye, Sue Gruver, Sharon Lynn, David Fees, John Long, Joe Swertinski and Joe Russell. Special thanks to our hawk counters, Dave Brown at Ashland Nature Center and Jen Ottinger at Cape Henlopen. Remember, the Birdline needs your sightings. Please call your reports into 302-792-9591 or email <ednieap...> Until next week, this is Andy Ednie wishing you good birding!
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Dennis Foley, Stephanie Warshsawsky, Susan Gruver, Vincent Gambal
Visitors: Thanks Sue, Vince, Stephanie, Ann, Alice, Dennis and Bill for helping with the count today! 18 visitors
Weather: Partly cloudy, temp 22-25C, light SE,S wind, vis 20km
Raptor Observations: Rather slow with the south winds, mostly Osprey, 11 Bald Eagles, a couple of Merlin and one Peregrine Falcon in the morning. 2 resident adult eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Lesser Black-backed Gull, Black Tern, Pine Warbler, Red-breasted Nuthatch, DC Cormorant (78).
Predictions: Partly sunny, high 76F, W wind turning N in the afternoon 10mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Predictions: Partly cloudy. Cooler with a high around 73F. Winds N@8 gusting 14.
Conditions are looking excellent for overall raptor migration.
Will this be the big broad-winged hawk flight? Here are some details to keep in mind. We still haven't had any serious broad-wing numbers so hopefully there are large numbers still north of us. The overall timing is very similar to last season when the big day was 23 Sep. Broad-winged hawk migration was nonexistent today due to strong south winds. From the day before there seem to be some broad-wings in the region but not enormous numbers. Could this mean that we won't see a huge morning liftoff but rather a push later in the day?
The winds will be strong. How will this affect the formation of thermals and the ability for broad-wings to form kettles? After tomorrow the weather isn't looking very good for at least a few days.
In summary, tomorrow seems to be the best shot we will have at a big broad-winged hawk flight and it will be a great day for hawk migration in general, so it will be worth it to come out and hope for the best.
======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Bill Collins, Carol Spease, Dan Meyer, Dirk Robinson, Joe Russell, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 3: Harvey R.
Weather: Misty in the morning. Cloudy with brief partly sunny periods. Warm with light easterly winds.
Raptor Observations: A decent number of migrants despite the conditions. Continuing good numbers of sharpies and kestrels. Only 57 broad-winged hawks so we have not had a big push yet.
Predictions: Friday: Partly cloudy with winds SSE@9 gusting 14. High around 76. The winds could disrupt the creation of thermals, but raptors will be getting lift from the wind. Doesn't seem like great conditions for a big broad-wing push but maybe we will be surprised.
Saturday: Periods of clouds and sun with winds NNW@8 gusting 13. This has good potential to be the peak broad-winged hawk day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Raptor Observations: Osprey migrating South/SW, nice Kestrel flight coming through in groups of 3,4, 6
Non-raptor Observations: Red-Throated Loon, Brown Pelicans, 7-Oyster Catchers,Pine Warbler, Brown-Headed Nuthatches, 20 Black Scoter
Predictions: 79, partly cloudy, WIND SSE at 10-15 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Date: 9/20/18 10:38 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] Abbott's Mill Bird Walk: 9/20/18
A crew of six birders walked the trails at Abbott's Mill along Johnson's Branch and out to the Lee Meadow. The following species were recorded: American Robin Northern Cardinal Blue Jay Carolina Wren Downy Woodpecker Red-bellied Woodpecker Carolina Chickadee Turkey Vulture American Crow Northern Flicker Northern Mockingbird Gray Catbird Pileated Woodpecker Mourning Dove American Goldfinch Field Sparrow Red-shouldered Hawk Chipping Sparrow Ruby-throated Hummingbird European Starling
Abbott's Mill Bird Walks meet each Thursday at 8:30 am through October 25. All welcome. Binoculars available to borrow!
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 11 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Andy Ednie, Bill Collins, Carol Ralph, Carol Spease, Cat Woodfield, Dan Meyer, Dirk Robinson, Jim Lewis, Joe Swertinski, Kim Steininger, Megan Kaspyrzak, Ryan Crane, Sally O'Byrne, Shannon Modla
Visitors: About 40 including a small school group: Terry H, Gene M, Ryan, Pete, and Bob Braeden, Jim Lewis, Jon Williams, Sharon, Frank, and Mark Isabelle.
Thanks to all the volunteers and visitors who helped spot extremely tiny dots against extremely blue skies.
Weather: Mostly sunny with moderate NNW winds in the morning weakening throughout the day. High in the low 80s.
Raptor Observations: This was the first really good day of the season. We had good numbers of osprey, sharpies, and kestrels. We finally had some small kettles of broad-winged hawks with a total of over 100 for the day. A long count day but there were birds migrating during all 11 hours. Most migrants were extremely high in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations: Cape May warbler, palm warbler, common loon, 75+ common nighthawks in the early evening (including one with no tail), 250+ migrating blue jays, 350+ monarchs.
Predictions: Tomorrow: Morning fog then cloudy. Winds E@6 gusting to 8mph. High around 75. Will the broad-wings be able to get enough lift to move in large kettles? I have no idea if it will be really good, really bad, or somewhere in between.
Friday: Partly sunny with strong south winds.
Saturday: Very similar to today. Partly cloudy with light to moderate northerly winds. If the broad-wings wait then this is the day they will have been hoping for. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: John Long, Kevin Bronson, Lynn Smith, Paul Kane, Rob Schroeder, Susan Gruver
Visitors: I greatly appreciate all the volunteers that came out today to help with the count! Thanks Sue, Kevin, John, Lynn, Rob, Paul and Bill! 36 visitors.
Weather: Clear skies in the morning turning partly cloudy, warm with temps 23-27C, N winds 5-10mph turning ENE in the late afternoon, vis 18km
Raptor Observations: Great flight today with 281 migrants counted! Osprey continue to make up the majority of the count, 17 Bald Eagles, Sharp-shinned Hawks, one Red-tailed Hawk, nice flight of Kestrels, also good numbers of Merlin and Peregrine Falcons. 2 Resident Bald Eagles
Non-raptor Observations: Chimney Swift, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Flicker, DC Cormorant (56). Too busy counting raptors to get much of a species list.
Predictions: Partly cloudy, high 73F, E wind 10 mph.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Date: 9/19/18 6:20 am From: Alice Mohrman <alice...> Subject: [de-birds] Abbott's Mill Bird Walk: Thursday, Sept. 20, 2018
All Birders Welcome! Meet at 8:30am at Abbott's Mill Nature Center, 15411 Abbott's Pond Road, Milford Delaware on Thurs. Sept. 20, 2018. Binoculars available to borrow. Free.
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: David Brown
Observers: Kim Steininger
Visitors: Nancy Steckel in the morning (thanks for the quiche!). Megan Kasprzak, Shannon Modla, and Kelley Nunn at the very end.
Weather: Overcast in the morning with light westerly winds. A band of thunderstorms descended from the northeast and paused the count for about 2 hours midday. After the storms the winds shifted to the NW and eventually the low cloud cover cleared to a sunny evening.
Raptor Observations: A small number of raptors in the morning including a group of 7 broad-wings mixed in with a kettle of vultures. After the storms passed and the winds shifted we had a nice late day flight of ospreys, bald eagles, kestrels, sharpies, and merlins, plus one more broad-wing.
Non-raptor Observations: 50+ nighthawks in the early evening.
Predictions: Sunny with light to moderate north winds and a high around 81F. It is always risky to make bold predictions but I don't see how it will be anything but an amazing day. Sunny skies and light north winds the day after a front passed in the peak of broad-winged hawk migration. I know a few of you will be calling in sick to work!
The only downside is that the lack of clouds will make it difficult to spot birds especially in the early afternoon as the migrants reach their peak altitude.
Is this going to be the big broad-winged hawk day? It is hard to say. I stayed late at the hawk watch and didn't see any kettles settling down into the area so maybe we won't have a huge morning liftoff. Maybe they'll come later in the day or maybe it will take another few days. Even without the broad-wings we should have good numbers of kestrels, sharpies, and bald eagles among the other expected species.
======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Jennifer Ottinger
Observers: John Long, Susan Gruver
Visitors: Thanks to Sue and John for assisting with the count! 24 visitors
Weather: Partly cloudy, intermittent rain in the afternoon, hot with temps 26-31C, SSW,SW,W wind 10mph, vis 18km.
Raptor Observations: Good Osprey migration, some Turkey Vultures moving through, five Bald Eagles, our first Harrier, and a couple of Accipiters and Falcons. The resident Bald Eagles were seen throughout the day chasing another pair of adult eagles from a nearby territory. We witness several talon-locking events from the eagles, and the residents vocalized each time a migrant eagle came through. Busy day for the pair!
Non-raptor Observations: Brown Pelican, Oystercatcher, Green Heron, Avocet, DC Cormorant (10).
Predictions: Mostly sunny, high 77F, N wind 10-15 mph
======================================================================== Report submitted by Jen Ottinger (<Jottinger.co...>)
Date: 9/18/18 12:22 pm From: Julian, Richard (DNREC) <Richard.Julian...> Subject: [de-birds] Tuesday Sept. 18 Cape Henlopen Bird Walk Results
After meeting at the Nature Center we did the double Points, The Point and Herring Point south down the Gordons Pond Trail.
Nature Center
House Finch American Crow Carolina Wren Turkey Vulture
The Point
Brown Pelicans Double-crested Cormorants Osprey Bald Eagle Wild Turkey Semi-palmated Plover Piping Plover American Oystercatcher Laughing Gull Herring Gull Greater Black-backed Gull Caspian Tern Royal Tern Mourning Dove Tree Swallow No. Mockingbird Blue Grosbeak
Herring Point/Gordons Pond Trail
Double-crested Cormorant (more) Great Egret Snowy Egret Turkey Vulture (more) Osprey (more) Greater Yellowlegs Herring Gull (more) Forster's Tern Mourning Dove (more) Downy Woodpecker American Crow (more) Tree Swallow (more) Carolina Chickadee Tufted Titmouse Brown-headed Nuthatch Carolina Wren (more) No. Mockingbird (more) Pine Warbler American Redstart Chipping Sparrow Northern Cardinal Blue Grosbeak (more) American Goldfinch
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Susan Gruver
Observers: Ann Dinkel, Art Zdancewic, Carol Blye, Paul Kane, Rob Blye
Visitors: thank you to Ann,Paul,Rob, Carol, and Art. 28 visitors
Weather: temp. 25-28c, wind ESE/SE/SSE at 10-12 mph., visb 15-10k., clcv 100%, we left at 3 pm when dark storm clouds started to come our way with a light rain
Raptor Observations: painfully slow start to the count, then Osprey started moving in the afternoon. 2 migrating imm. Bald Eagles, 2 residents
Non-raptor Observations: 26 Brown Pelicans( 18 in one flock), Common, Royal and Caspian Terns
Predictions: 70% chance of showers all day, 80, wind SW 5-10 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Sue Gruver (<srgruver...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Joe Sebastiani, Sally O'Byrne
Observers: Dan Meyer, David Brown, Jim Lewis, Joe Sebastiani, Kim Steininger
Visitors: 3: Jim Lewis, Noah Grill
Weather: Overcast with southerly winds. Periods of drizzle and rain throughout the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: A surprising number of migrants despite the conditions. We had 22 kestrels including 18 in a single hour in the late morning. Also a nice number of sharp-shinned hawks and a handful of ospreys.
Predictions: Cloudy with showers and thunderstorms from Florence. Winds WSW@6 gusting 9. Wednesday is looking like great conditions for hawk watching. ======================================================================== Report submitted by David Brown (<davidebrownpa...>) Ashland Nature Center information may be found at: www.delnature.org
