On 3/28/2023 7:06 PM, Chad Kauffman wrote: > Hello everyone, here is the write up we worked up from 2 weekends ago. > Our next one is end of April to the southwest corner of the state in > Greene County. > > *Columbia County Birding Spotlight March 17-20, 2023* > > > It was time to head towards the eastern part of the state and I > reached out to some birders about certain counties and Andy Keister > suggested we do Columbia County with some potential for waterfowl > mid-March and after some research, even predicted that we could get > 80-85 species during that time. It certainly qualified as a lower > ranked county on ebird for species and checklists. So, it was time to > give it some love. > > We were able to line up 3 days’ worth of birding walks which is always > helpful for these spotlights. We started it off on the 17th with Karol > Pasquinelli leading a trip around Briar Creek Lake. It predicted some > light rain on that Friday morning, so we prepared and hoped for some > waterfowl and whatever else we could find. Noah and I got there a bit > early and Karol and a couple others were already there, we met on the > west side. I recognized Mark Nale and Darla getting their rain gear > on. The lake was loaded with Canada Geese and some other waterfowl. > Skeins of geese kept going overhead all morning and we low estimated > over 5k. We had Bryce from Northumberland, Jessie from Snyder and Lisa > from Potter join us as well. We had over a dozen birders make the lap > around half of the lake getting some first of the year birds for > ourselves as well as the county. We enjoyed getting the first Eastern > Phoebe, Tree Swallow and Eastern Meadowlark which also perched in a > tree by our cars. Another great highlight was having a gray ghost, the > male Northern Harrier fly right over us on the walk. > > We went up the road just a bit to see the local vulture roost and got > both species, the Black Vulture was the hardest one to get that > weekend for sure. After some field birding and a wonderful lunch at > Berwick Brewing, we continued to Columbia Park. A mad crazy pishing > recording perked up a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, our first American > Goldfinch and a few other nice birds. Andy finally got off work and > was able to join us in the afternoon and after exploring some more > fields, we went to the top of the mountain after some fruitless > Sandhill Crane search and found some more waterfowl and our first > Common Goldeneye for the weekend along with more Ring-necked Duck > which was in good numbers all over the county. Coming back down the > mountain we did some more field searching and lucked out seeing and > hearing some Horned Lark. > > We finished our day at Lake Glory Campground and saw some nice > waterfowl coming in for the evening. This was one of the many hotspots > we created during this spotlight. Late that night Joe Gyekis and his > son Henry got to our AirBnB in Orangeville, so we hoped for an early > start the next morning before the field trips. Joe was able to get out > and about, hearing American Woodcock and Wild Turkey. We were working > our way to Bloomsburg to meet Andy Keister and the gang for our 8am > walk along some river spots. Elsewhere in the county Julia Plummer was > doing some solo birding and getting audio and found the first Fox > Sparrow as well for the weekend. She was able to get 14 different > species on audio which is always a great addition to our spotlights. > She does better when she does hermit birding to lessen the noise and > interference. > > On our walk, with 14 people along the river spots, we saw a single > Merlin who was vocal, got another Eastern Phoebe and by the sports > parks, saw at least 2 Merlin in their nesting area. We were hoping to > get the falcon sweep by visiting the Bloomsburg Airport but this visit > wouldn’t pan out. Peregrines seem to like to winter roost in this > area, but nest elsewhere in the county. Our next stop was Paper Mill > Rd and Lake which we can now tell you not to park at the top of the > hill after the town's finest badge came to check us out. But that walk > down that road looking through the fence and tree gave us an amazing > waterfowl selection. We got 10 duck species plus Pied-billed Grebe and > American Coot. Other highlights were Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Common > Goldeneye and Ruddy Duck. We then did some spot checking for various > species and scored with 2 Purple Finch at local birder John > Slotterback’s home. He had them a week or so before and we lucked out > on that day. The only spot for them the whole weekend. We decided to > hit Lake Glory Campground again and found some really nice additions > in Winter Wren, Rusty Blackbird and Swamp Sparrow. As we decided to > call it a day, we finished at Harris Wetlands and Andy found us 4 > Wilson Snipe, several nice flocks of Rusty Blackbirds, and some more > waterfowl. Back at our rental Joe went back out with Michael David to > look for more American Woodcock and actually got to see some and get > pics. A Sharp-shinned Hawk almost hit them as it was zooming by within > 4 feet. > > Sunday morning came quickly as we had to get packed up and run over to > SGL 226 to meet Andy for another bird walk. When we got there, John > let us know that after 7 pm the night before, he did see a perched > Peregrine Falcon near the airport to give the spotlight a falcon > sweep. The temps Sunday morning were the lowest all weekend, so we all > had to bundle up for some walks. We got our first of the weekend > Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatch and American Tree > Sparrow for our group of over a dozen. As we went further north, we > got lucky to see a Fox Sparrow of our own as well as hear it. Most of > us called it a day after this. > > Monday morning, I had to get back to work and posted some of the > updates and pics on the last day of the challenge but Moses Martin who > lives near SGL 226 responded to my email to the listserv and let us > know that he was hearing Eastern Screech Owl every morning and I was > allowed to share it on ebird for him. On the last night Andy also went > out and got us a Great Horned Owl to add another new species. > > So, we had 96 ebird checklists for 86 species, with 28 of them with > pictures and 14 of them with audio. We added 14 year birds to the > county and several new hotspot requests. It was another great excuse > to see some old friends, meet some new ones, explore new places, > promote an underbirded county and enjoy mother nature once again. The > biggest non birding adventure many of us got to enjoy was seeing a > river otter playing in the water and on the bank. > > Thanks again Andy and Karol for leading and joining, as well as all of > the local birders and the ones who had to travel to join us. > -- - https://g.page/r/CXvl17D6umKrEB0/review - See our new video https://youtu.be/3gyjkxmmFS4 - Check us out on facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kauffmaninsurance/
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 28, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Stacey Bird, Jim Ruth
Weather: Mostly cloudy and mild all day with intermittent periods of sun. The wind started at N and gradually shifted to NW and was fairly light throughout.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Sub - 8:48, Ad - 13:58
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 2, Mourning Dove - 2, American Crow - 3, Common Raven - 5, Black-capped Chickadee - 2, Tufted Titmouse - 2, European Starling - 1, American Robin - 9, Dark-eyed Junco - 1, Song Sparrow - 1, Red-winged Blackbird - 4
Predictions: Uncertain; S winds could be productive ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/28/23 5:20 pm From: Ann Pettigrew <rook185...> Subject: Merlin - Fox Sparrow - York County
As I was filling my feeders this morning I heard a sparrow that I didn’t recognize so, out of curiosity, I tried Merlin Sound ID. It immediately came up with Fox Sparrow. Problem was that I couldn’t find who was calling. A couple of hours later I looked out again and discovered a fox sparrow bathing in the stream! I know Merlin gets a lot of criticism because it is not always accurate, but, this morning I was impressed!
Had our first Chipping Sparrow today as well.
Have a good evening!
Ann C. Pettigrew, V.M.D.
York, PA
<rook185...>
www.pbase.com/rook185
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
― Mahatma Gandhi
Date: 3/28/23 4:06 pm From: Chad Kauffman <chadkauffman...> Subject: Columbia County birding spotlight summary
Hello everyone, here is the write up we worked up from 2 weekends ago. Our next one is end of April to the southwest corner of the state in Greene County.
*Columbia County Birding Spotlight March 17-20, 2023*
It was time to head towards the eastern part of the state and I reached out to some birders about certain counties and Andy Keister suggested we do Columbia County with some potential for waterfowl mid-March and after some research, even predicted that we could get 80-85 species during that time. It certainly qualified as a lower ranked county on ebird for species and checklists. So, it was time to give it some love.
We were able to line up 3 days’ worth of birding walks which is always helpful for these spotlights. We started it off on the 17th with Karol Pasquinelli leading a trip around Briar Creek Lake. It predicted some light rain on that Friday morning, so we prepared and hoped for some waterfowl and whatever else we could find. Noah and I got there a bit early and Karol and a couple others were already there, we met on the west side. I recognized Mark Nale and Darla getting their rain gear on. The lake was loaded with Canada Geese and some other waterfowl. Skeins of geese kept going overhead all morning and we low estimated over 5k. We had Bryce from Northumberland, Jessie from Snyder and Lisa from Potter join us as well. We had over a dozen birders make the lap around half of the lake getting some first of the year birds for ourselves as well as the county. We enjoyed getting the first Eastern Phoebe, Tree Swallow and Eastern Meadowlark which also perched in a tree by our cars. Another great highlight was having a gray ghost, the male Northern Harrier fly right over us on the walk.
We went up the road just a bit to see the local vulture roost and got both species, the Black Vulture was the hardest one to get that weekend for sure. After some field birding and a wonderful lunch at Berwick Brewing, we continued to Columbia Park. A mad crazy pishing recording perked up a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, our first American Goldfinch and a few other nice birds. Andy finally got off work and was able to join us in the afternoon and after exploring some more fields, we went to the top of the mountain after some fruitless Sandhill Crane search and found some more waterfowl and our first Common Goldeneye for the weekend along with more Ring-necked Duck which was in good numbers all over the county. Coming back down the mountain we did some more field searching and lucked out seeing and hearing some Horned Lark.
We finished our day at Lake Glory Campground and saw some nice waterfowl coming in for the evening. This was one of the many hotspots we created during this spotlight. Late that night Joe Gyekis and his son Henry got to our AirBnB in Orangeville, so we hoped for an early start the next morning before the field trips. Joe was able to get out and about, hearing American Woodcock and Wild Turkey. We were working our way to Bloomsburg to meet Andy Keister and the gang for our 8am walk along some river spots. Elsewhere in the county Julia Plummer was doing some solo birding and getting audio and found the first Fox Sparrow as well for the weekend. She was able to get 14 different species on audio which is always a great addition to our spotlights. She does better when she does hermit birding to lessen the noise and interference.
On our walk, with 14 people along the river spots, we saw a single Merlin who was vocal, got another Eastern Phoebe and by the sports parks, saw at least 2 Merlin in their nesting area. We were hoping to get the falcon sweep by visiting the Bloomsburg Airport but this visit wouldn’t pan out. Peregrines seem to like to winter roost in this area, but nest elsewhere in the county. Our next stop was Paper Mill Rd and Lake which we can now tell you not to park at the top of the hill after the town's finest badge came to check us out. But that walk down that road looking through the fence and tree gave us an amazing waterfowl selection. We got 10 duck species plus Pied-billed Grebe and American Coot. Other highlights were Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye and Ruddy Duck. We then did some spot checking for various species and scored with 2 Purple Finch at local birder John Slotterback’s home. He had them a week or so before and we lucked out on that day. The only spot for them the whole weekend. We decided to hit Lake Glory Campground again and found some really nice additions in Winter Wren, Rusty Blackbird and Swamp Sparrow. As we decided to call it a day, we finished at Harris Wetlands and Andy found us 4 Wilson Snipe, several nice flocks of Rusty Blackbirds, and some more waterfowl. Back at our rental Joe went back out with Michael David to look for more American Woodcock and actually got to see some and get pics. A Sharp-shinned Hawk almost hit them as it was zooming by within 4 feet.
Sunday morning came quickly as we had to get packed up and run over to SGL 226 to meet Andy for another bird walk. When we got there, John let us know that after 7 pm the night before, he did see a perched Peregrine Falcon near the airport to give the spotlight a falcon sweep. The temps Sunday morning were the lowest all weekend, so we all had to bundle up for some walks. We got our first of the weekend Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatch and American Tree Sparrow for our group of over a dozen. As we went further north, we got lucky to see a Fox Sparrow of our own as well as hear it. Most of us called it a day after this.
Monday morning, I had to get back to work and posted some of the updates and pics on the last day of the challenge but Moses Martin who lives near SGL 226 responded to my email to the listserv and let us know that he was hearing Eastern Screech Owl every morning and I was allowed to share it on ebird for him. On the last night Andy also went out and got us a Great Horned Owl to add another new species.
So, we had 96 ebird checklists for 86 species, with 28 of them with pictures and 14 of them with audio. We added 14 year birds to the county and several new hotspot requests. It was another great excuse to see some old friends, meet some new ones, explore new places, promote an underbirded county and enjoy mother nature once again. The biggest non birding adventure many of us got to enjoy was seeing a river otter playing in the water and on the bank.
Thanks again Andy and Karol for leading and joining, as well as all of the local birders and the ones who had to travel to join us.
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 11:15:00 Total observation time: 2.75 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: Variably cloudy with rather low clouds passing quickly through with vultures occasionally fading away as they moved through the clouds. West winds to start then eventually switching over to NW, but light. Still cold with temps. reaching about 5 C.
Raptor Observations: A couple of decent sized kettles early before the wind shifted around scattering them out with no well-defined flight path during the rest of the count. Eventually they started wandering around and even drifting back west. Very few hawks passing through.
Non-raptor Observations: Wood Duck 5, Rock Pigeon 40, Mourning Dove 4, Common Loon 1, Eastern Phoebe 1, Killdeer 5, a few Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, European Starlings, and American Robins.
Predictions: A bit warmer with SW wind, gusty at times, but snow likely with periods of sun. The wind is right, but it will depend upon the amount of cloud cover and precipitation as to whether birds will move.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers:
Weather: Light to moderate winds from the WNW Average temperature -1 C. 100% cloud cover with light snow showers all day Visibility went from 32 km. to 17 km. with a haze over the valley.
Raptor Observations: 0 raptors counted nothing flying not even local turkey vultures
Non-raptor Observations: Juncos, robins, white breasted nuthatches, cardinals, hairy woodpecker, black capped chicadees, blue birds, tufted titmouse, crows, blue jays, doves, pileated woodp pecker, tree sparrows
Predictions: mostly sunny skies ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Date: 3/27/23 6:44 pm From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (26 Mar 2023) 25 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Kathy Stroh, Mike Fowles, Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (4): Rick Robinson, Kathy S., Mike Fowles <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (2) and Turkey Vultures (35).
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Finally, the sun! I expect some big changes during the next couple of days both in passerines and waterfowl. Things ought to pick up overhead with the raptors, too. I arrived at Chambers Lake this morning, field brew from Turkey Hill in hand as I set up my field office. There were more waterfowl on the lake than before with movement happening even as I type. Flocks were coming in while some were moving out. New on the lake were 3 Horned Grebes. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Redheads, Lesser Scaup, Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Horned Grebes, Ring-billed Gulls, Phoebes, Raven, and Kingfishers <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (1): Spring Peeper. Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 2,175, Miles – 0.93, Floors – 5 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 49; this season: 78 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (1):” Horned Grebe. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks good <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Bob Stewart, Ed Gowarty,Jr., Jack Julian, Kevin Georg
Weather: East winds, sunny with clouds building up as day went on till rain and winds turning west around 2:30 EST. wind 4-12 mph.
Raptor Observations: east winds but looks were not close. GE adult out over valley. not a good look 10:11. juvenile BE soaring around over watch not migrating 10:34.
Non-raptor Observations: large flock turkey along road to watch with at least 5 gobblers fanned out. pileated woodpecker, mourning doves, swifts and swallow, nuthatch, chickadees, robins, cardinals, 3 different groups of cormorants totaled 18, 1 black vulture went south.
Predictions: mainly cloudy, clearer in afternoon, temps 30-40's, winds from NW around 10 mph ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Non-raptor Observations: crows-3; black-capped chicadees-5; mourning dove-1 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Things have been normal but not very eventful this past winter due to the warmth and lack of snow. I never had any really unusual northern species except for an adult male ruby-crowned kinglet that’s still here. But today’s high temp brought two chipping and one fox sparrow out onto the millet rock along with one white/crowned and many juncos, white-throated sparrows, and several song sparrows. There was also an eastern phoebe in the front yard and a female harrier in the back fields.
And both a cooper’s and sharpies occasionally visit
Sent from my iPhone
Date: 3/27/23 11:04 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch (24 Mar 2023) 7 Raptors
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 24, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Dave Bechdel, Kathy Bechdel
Visitors: Kathy & Dave Bechdel
Weather: Very light N wind and cloudy all day. Wind changed from N to NE in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Juvenile - 10:41
Non-migratory/residents: Black Vulture - 3, Turkey Vulture - 11, Bald Eagle - 3, Red-tailed Hawk - 2
*NE wind in afternoon was not productive for the movement of migrant or resident raptors
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 1, duck sp. - 8, Mourning Dove - 4, Killdeer - 1, Downy Woodpecker - 1, Pileated Woodpecker - 1, Eastern Phoebe - 1, American Crow - 9, Common Raven - 6, Black-capped Chickadee - 7, Tufted Titmouse - 3, European Starling - 3, Eastern Bluebird - 5, American Robin - 6, House Finch - 1, Fox Sparrow - 6, Dark-eyed Junco - 5, Common Grackle - 10, passerine sp. - 4
Predictions: Uncertain; Inclement weather will likely hinder watch effort entirely. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 11:15:00 Total observation time: 3.25 hours
Compiler: David Barber, Elizabeth Zink, Joel Moore
Counters: Bracken Brown, Charles Khumalo, David Barber, Gizo Seskuria
Weather: Clear to overcast, SE winds from 8 to 12.
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 3/27/23 8:41 am From: Rob Dickerson <radickerson...> Subject: Winter - Call for Photos
Do you have some great photos of any birds taken in Pennsylvania from December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2023? Or a picture of a notable/significant sighting from that period?
I am currently accepting photo submissions through end of day April 10 to be considered for publication as space permits in the Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology (PSO) Winter 2023 issue of Pennsylvania Birds.
**Important Note** Images submitted must be high-res and are preferred to be horizontal shots. Submitted images must be able to be cropped to 1050px x 700px with a resolution of 300 px/in for horizontal images. If space allows high-quality vertical portrait shots may be used, but they take up the space of 2 photos in the layout used by the journal. Vertical photos submitted must be able to be cropped to 1050px x 1313px at 300 px/in.
Some further instructions... If your submission does not follow the instructions below or contain the info requested below, it will not be processed!
- Submissions for consideration **must** be taken during the above date range and emailed to <radickerson...>, please make mention of the word WINTER in the subject line to simplify processing.
- Please do not submit me dozens of images for consideration, please do some initial limiting/judging of selections on your end that reflect the best of your work. However, if you have 15 different images of truly notable sightings in the state from this period, I'll gladly accept them for consideration!
- VERY important! For each image attached to the e-mail, you must include a description in the body of the e-mail for that image. Best format to follow: Species Name - Location, County, DD Month. Sentence about significance if known/applicable. (Photographer Name) Example: Antillean Nighthawk - Presque Isle SP, Erie, 12 June. This bird represented a first state record and was observed through 1 July. (John Doe)
- Please also submit your photos for consideration in full resolution or as close to full resolution as possible as these will be printed. Your photo also may be considered for a cover shot and a 250KB image just won't work for that! I need to be able to crop your photo to fit the space as it permits in the journal and a precropped / low-resolution image is problematic for that. It's safe to say that if you're sending me an image under a megabyte in size, it isn't going to be the resolution I need to work with. I also need room to crop the image to the specs used for the newsletter (exact specs posted above) and an extremely tight crop may not allow me to do that.
- Photos selected for printing in the issue will be credited to the photographer, please DO NOT submit watermarked/signatured images or they will not be considered. The image should be clean of any add-ons.
Thanks for considering submitting your photos for consideration for our statewide ornithology journal!
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 26, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 4, Mourning Dove - 2, Common Loon - 1, American Crow - 4, Common Raven - 3, Black-capped Chickadee - 5, Tufted Titmouse - 1, Tree Swallow - 7, European Starling - 3, Eastern Bluebird - 4, Common Grackle - 7, passerine sp. - 9
Predictions: Uncertain; rain will likely hinder watch effort entirely ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:15:00 Observation end time: 12:15:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Ken Felix, Roger Donn
Visitors: Ken Felix assisted with the count and Roger Donn also assisted for a while.
Weather: Clear and cold with SW wind until the 0900 hour when the winds became westerly.
Raptor Observations: Typically birds don't start moving until after about 0930 EST, but this morning was an exception. When I pulled into the hawk watch site at 0815 EST the sky was already dotted with vultures and they were already quite high, with as many as 135 in one kettle, so I wondered how many had already passed before I arrived? I counted nearly 900 vultures just in the first 45 minutes of the watch, but then when the wind shifted, so did the birds and numbers fell dramatically. There was just a sprinkle of hawks among them. I suspect the severe late afternoon storm, put birds down west of the watch and this morning these were birds lifting off a massive roost, since they nearly came through all at one time.
Non-raptor Observations: Eastern Meadowlark 1, Tree Swallow 1, American Robin, Common Grackles and Red-winged Blackbirds, Rock Pigeons, House Finch, Wood Duck 3, Double-crested Cormorant 3, Killdeer, and a few Canada Geese.
Predictions: 90% chance of rain and snow mix and NE wind. Guess I'll do some catching up at home.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4.25 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Julie Leonard, Ken Felix, Roger Donn
Visitors: Ken Felix, Roger Donn, and Julie Leaonard assisted at least part of the day. My wife Linda stopped by for a visit and Richard Naber from Michigan returning from his travels visiting all the Eastern Great Lakes hawk watch sites, stopped for one last visit.
Weather: Passing rain showers with a severe thunderstorm accompanied by hail at the end of the last hour. Temps. in the mid 50s F with winds from the SSE up to 50 mph. Fast-moving low-level clouds most of the day.
Raptor Observations: Not much in the way of hawks except between 1330 and 1400 hrs. EST when a few hawks pushed through ahead of the storm. Single TVs worked their way through off and on, but total number at the end of the day was nothing to write home about.
Non-raptor Observations: Still, plenty of blackbirds moving through even during mid-day. Lots of American Robins with an estimate of about 300 birds. Two Eastern Meadowlarks a couple of Hooded Mergansers, 6 Wood Ducks, about 20 Canada Geese, 20 Killdeer, 29 Rock Pigeons, and bunch of European Starlings.
Predictions: Cooler continued windy with clouds in the morning making way for sun in the afternoon with WSW wind. Depending on how much of the wind is off the lake will determine if any birds move along the lake.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/25/23 12:46 pm From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks County
The following were seen or heard on the morning bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol PA. Thanks to Ron Miller for leading the walk this morning.
Species seen
American Crow 1
American Robin 9
Bald Eagle juvenile fly over twice. 1
Blue Jay 3
Brown Creeper 2
Brown-headed Cowbird 1
Canada Goose 12
Carolina Chickadee 2
Carolina Wren 4
Common Merganser 2
Dark-eyed Junco 2
Double-creasted Cormorant 2
Downey Woodpecker 3
Eastern Phoebe 1
European Starling 10
Great Blue Heron 2
Hairy Woodpecker 2
Hooded Merganser 6
House Finch 3
House Sparrow 2
Mallard 6
Marsh Wren 1
Mourning Dove 3
Northern Cardinal 5
Northern Flicker 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Red-Winged Blackbird 15
Song Sparrow 2
Tufted Titmouse 1
White-breasted nuthatch 3
White-throated Sparrow 10
Yellow-rumped Warbler 5
Golden-crowned Kinglet 2
Doug FillerLevittown Pa.
Sent from the all new AOL app for Android
Date: 3/25/23 5:42 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (24 Mar 2023) 1 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 24, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (1): Just me, again in the harsh weather <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 2-Red-shouldered Hawk, 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and Turkey Vultures (2). <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Yesterday’s stormy weather is to continue today. It will not be a day for hawk migration but there is a possibility for action on the lake. Bad weather in migration can result in unusual species being forced down – scoters, Long-tailed Ducks, grebes, gulls, and loons among them. That will be my focus today. Watching the sky would do nothing more than give me a wet face! Once at Chambers Lake, the steady rain kept me watching from the van. A Raven flying over at noon broke the monotony. It was later joined by another. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Killdeer, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Heron, Ring-billed Gull, Phoebe, Ravens, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (0): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 837, Miles – 0.36, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 48; this season: 77 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks as if his storm continues and will be another washout <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/24/23 2:21 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (23 Mar 2023) 6 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 23, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (5) and Turkey Vultures (8). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-1; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-3 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> A steady rain started right from the first look at Chambers Lake. It is gonna be a long day. Nothing was on the move today except for Cormorants. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Greater Scaup, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Common Loons, Great Blue Herons, Double-crested Cormorants, Ring-billed Gulls, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 664, Miles – 0.28, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 47; this season: 77 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like more of the same - clouds with rain. Not a good day for hawk migration. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/23/23 4:35 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (22 Mar 2023) 23 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 22, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Dave Luning, Elaine Kirk, Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (4): Rick Robinson, Dave Luning, Elaine Kirk <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 2-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (16) and Turkey Vultures (52). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-_; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-3 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Once at Chambers Lake, a very different day was presented. It was still calm, but clouds were in full force. Waterfowl remained pretty much the same on the lake. A Black-capped Chickadee was singing from the nearby trees. It was a pretty good year for this species around here. Back on the lake, the male Bufflehead were busy with their courtship dancing – amazing to watch! Amazing, on a much different level, was the helicopter that came in low and hovered over the lake, disrupting everything. Humans! There is a local resident with a helicopter which occasionally comes in and lands at home. This was not him but likely one from the nearby helicopter repair center at the airport. There was a very noticeable up-tick in raptor and gull movement today. A Common Raven, now fairly regular here, was heard calling around 3pm. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> American Wigeon, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Herons, Ring-billed Gulls, Phoebe, Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, and Kingfisher. <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 3,647, Miles – 1.55, Floors – 5 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 47; this season: 77 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like a bit of a washout with showers and light southerly winds. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Subject: Butler County eBird Report - Barkley Road, Moraine State Park, Mar 22, 2023
After walking at Jennings this morning, we birded along Rt 528, Moraine State Park. At Barkley Road boat launch, we saw 8 FOY Tree Swallows and 1 Tundra Swan. Complete list below.
Karyn Delaney Kathy Saunders
Barkley Road, Butler, Pennsylvania, US Mar 22, 2023 12:45 PM - 1:05 PM Protocol: Stationary 13 species
Canada Goose 20 Tundra Swan 1 Wood Duck 2 Mallard 18 Bufflehead 1 Hooded Merganser 4 Red-breasted Merganser 13 Ruddy Duck 3 Pied-billed Grebe 2 Red-tailed Hawk 1 American Crow 1 Tree Swallow 8 FOY here American Robin 1
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 22, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-raptor Observations: Downy Woodpecker - 1, American Kestrel - 3, American Crow - 2, Common Raven - 1, Tufted Titmouse - 2, White-breasted Nuthatch - 1, European Starling - 5, Eastern Bluebird - 3, American Robin - 3, House Finch - 1, Common Grackle - 15, Herring Gull - 2, Great Blue Heron - 5, passerine sp. - 10
Predictions: Uncertain; inclement weather will likely hinder watch efforts ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 7.25 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Ken Felix
Visitors: Ken Felix assisted all day. Visitors included my wife Linda, Pat Howell, Julie Dell, Jimmie Marz, Bob Grubb, and two or three other people.
Weather: 100% clouds all day with a nice SSW wind all day. It never got very warm, just reaching the low 50s F.
Raptor Observations: Nothing moving until 1050 EST, then vultures started moving with a steady flow until close to the 1500 mark when it began to dwindle. Even though the flight was steady it was rather light. Very few hawks seen, and nearly all were RS and RT. Several local Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: Common Loon 2, Killdeer 12, Eastern Meadowlark 1, Great Blue Heron 1, several Common Grackles and Red-winged Blackbirds
Predictions: Continued south wind and a bit warmer, but rain, heavy at times, through the day. A flight not likely if the rain is an all-day event.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 21, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions: Uncertain; the S winds should be productive to some degree ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Raptor Observations: 8 migrating raptors including:ad GE 10:54, ad GE 11:56,ad BE 12:07
Non-raptor Observations: ravens,crows,jays,robins,cardinals,chickadees,wb nuthatches,titmice,1 song sparrow,1 golden crowned kinglet,E bluebirds,hairy wps,N flicker,pileated wp
Predictions: rain overnight. Rain Thursday with a chance of PM thunder; WSW winds;high 55-60F. It is possible that a counter will not be on duty due to weather conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Date: 3/22/23 9:51 am From: Michael Fialkovich <0000012b4af48ab0-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: American Woodcocks Huntingdon County
Hooded Mergansers always sounded like Leopard Frogs to me. They aren't very loud so it's not a familiar sound to many.
Mike Fialkovich
Allegheny County
On Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 10:58:14 AM EDT, Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> wrote:
We went out to look for Woodcocks last night and weren't disappointed. Heard the unmistakable peint sounds for two at Mierley Wetlands and one at the new Sidwell pond site. We were surprised that there were no spring peepers. They are usually deafening at Mierley.
There were also Common Mergansers, Hooded Mergansers, Ring-necked Ducks and of course Mallards and Canada Geese. I was absolutely shocked when we got home and the garage door was still open and I heard a woodcock outside in our yard! It didn't stay long before it was across the road in the field and I heard the twittering as it flew up in the air and tumbled down, probably what got him the nickname Timberdoodle.
I was also surprised when Greg told me that the growling sound we heard at the wetlands were the "Hoodies",\. I thought it was frogs! I have added a file here of the sound. I think that they are my favorite duck -- so beautiful.
Check out display sounds here.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Merganser/sounds?fbclid=IwAR12kT7vhMFdIuqP_iYRiyL0unbr0NJNZgJeIALraItk9N6LqAODTwg8dC0 [https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/assets/og/75375181-1200px.jpg]<https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Merganser/sounds?fbclid=IwAR12kT7vhMFdIuqP_iYRiyL0unbr0NJNZgJeIALraItk9N6LqAODTwg8dC0> Hooded Merganser Sounds, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology<https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Merganser/sounds?fbclid=IwAR12kT7vhMFdIuqP_iYRiyL0unbr0NJNZgJeIALraItk9N6LqAODTwg8dC0> “Hooded” is something of an understatement for this extravagantly crested little duck. Adult males are a sight to behold, with sharp black-and-white patterns set off by chestnut flanks. Females get their own distinctive elegance from their cinnamon crest. Hooded Mergansers are fairly common on small ponds and rivers, where they dive for fish, crayfish, and other food, seizing it in their thin, serrated bills. They nest in tree cavities; the ducklings depart with a bold leap to the forest floor when only one day old.
www.allaboutbirds.org
Deb
Date: 3/22/23 7:58 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: American Woodcocks Huntingdon County
We went out to look for Woodcocks last night and weren't disappointed. Heard the unmistakable peint sounds for two at Mierley Wetlands and one at the new Sidwell pond site. We were surprised that there were no spring peepers. They are usually deafening at Mierley.
There were also Common Mergansers, Hooded Mergansers, Ring-necked Ducks and of course Mallards and Canada Geese. I was absolutely shocked when we got home and the garage door was still open and I heard a woodcock outside in our yard! It didn't stay long before it was across the road in the field and I heard the twittering as it flew up in the air and tumbled down, probably what got him the nickname Timberdoodle.
I was also surprised when Greg told me that the growling sound we heard at the wetlands were the "Hoodies",\. I thought it was frogs! I have added a file here of the sound. I think that they are my favorite duck -- so beautiful.
Check out display sounds here.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Merganser/sounds?fbclid=IwAR12kT7vhMFdIuqP_iYRiyL0unbr0NJNZgJeIALraItk9N6LqAODTwg8dC0 [https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/assets/og/75375181-1200px.jpg]<https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Merganser/sounds?fbclid=IwAR12kT7vhMFdIuqP_iYRiyL0unbr0NJNZgJeIALraItk9N6LqAODTwg8dC0> Hooded Merganser Sounds, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology<https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Merganser/sounds?fbclid=IwAR12kT7vhMFdIuqP_iYRiyL0unbr0NJNZgJeIALraItk9N6LqAODTwg8dC0> Hooded is something of an understatement for this extravagantly crested little duck. Adult males are a sight to behold, with sharp black-and-white patterns set off by chestnut flanks. Females get their own distinctive elegance from their cinnamon crest. Hooded Mergansers are fairly common on small ponds and rivers, where they dive for fish, crayfish, and other food, seizing it in their thin, serrated bills. They nest in tree cavities; the ducklings depart with a bold leap to the forest floor when only one day old.
www.allaboutbirds.org
Deb
Date: 3/22/23 1:40 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (21 Mar 2023) 13 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 21, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (2): Rick Robinson <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 2-Red-shouldered Hawk, 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (6) and Turkey Vultures (33). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-1; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-_ <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Once at Chambers Lake, I found the weather was splendid for once - the whitecaps replaced by gentle ripples. This is the first time this month!
The season’s first Osprey finally came by this morning [my FOY]. The Osprey promptly caught a fish. Equally as promptly an immature Bald Eagle came in, chased it, and stole the fish. So it goes. When I started birding Eagles could not be found. There was a nesting pair at Bombay Hook and that was about it. They were a great bird to see. Let’s face it though…Bald Eagles suck. They are magnificent to look at, important indicators of the environment being at the pinnacle of their food chain. They are also thieves and scavengers. They are the beautiful, stately blonde at the party that nobody can stand once you have to talk to and engage with her. You know the one! They are great to look at though! From afar. Give me the friendly, interesting, brunette, though – every time! [Additional highlights listed below] Rick Robinson was out, spotting the first Osprey. <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Greater Scaup, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Herons, Ring-billed Gulls, Phoebe, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 4,501, Miles – 1.92, Floors – 2 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 46; this season: 77 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (2):” Greater Scaup and Osprey. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks cloudy with light SW winds. I will take it! <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers: Bob Stewart, Ed Gowarty,Sr, Greg Gdula, Jack Julian, Kevin Georg
Visitors: Greg Gdula, Ed Gowarty, bob Stewart, Kevin Georg, Jack Julian
Weather: Light to moderate winds from the N
Light to moderate winds from the NW then SW. Average temperature 5 degrees C. Cloud cover went from 0% to 100 % Visibility clear up to 32 km.
Raptor Observations: 25 raptors counted, 2 Adult bald eagles flying south were not included in the count.
Juv.golden eagle at2:34 and a adult at 2:52 2 Adult bald eagles 3:45
Non-raptor Observations: Crows, hairy woodpecker, robins, bc chicadees, tufted titmouse, juncos, ravens, blue birds, wb nuthatches. doves, blue jays, local turkey vultures.
The weather station was replaced today after it blew down three weeks ago.
Predictions: Mostly cloudy with rain ariving late in the day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 4.75 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Jennifer Ferrick, Ken Felix, Russ States
Visitors: Russ States, Ken Felix, Bernie O'Connor, and Jennifer Ferrick assisted with the count. Mark Johnson stopped for a visit. Thanks for bringing the cookies, Jennifer!
Weather: Clear with cirrus clouds near the end of the count. Not real warm with SSW wind early then becoming westerly.
Raptor Observations: Vultures drifted through in modest numbers until the wind shifted to the west and the flight shut down. Very few hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: Blackbird species 650, Red-winged Blackbird 137 Mourning Dove 3, American Robin 17, American Crow 40, Great Blue Heron 3, Common Loon 1, Canada Goose 33, Common Grackle 25
Predictions: Overcast with winds out of the south with a high of 51 F. Hard to predict after today.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/21/23 9:10 am From: Joe Gyekis <gyekis9...> Subject: Zoom meeting Wed. about The Impact of the Weather on Shorebird Migration in Western Alaska
Hello Everyone,
All are invited to the March meeting of the State College Bird Club, which will take place by zoom on Wednesday March 22nd at 7 pm.
After a few minutes of our usual bird club business, we will have a talk from our guest speaker Steven Feldstein titled "The Impact of the Weather on Shorebird Migration in Western Alaska."
Dr. Feldstein is a highly accomplished meteorology professor at Penn State who has done a great deal of in-depth research on many climactic and atmospheric cycles. He's also an avid birder with well over 700 bird species on his North American life list. (Check out the cool pictures on his website! http://www.personal.psu.edu/sbf1/)
Date: 3/20/23 10:47 pm From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (20 Mar 2023) 11 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 20, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Elaine Kirk, Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Rick Robinson, Elaine Kirk <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (4) and Turkey Vultures (34).
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> It was a cold beginning to the day at Chambers Lake, but at least I was able to sit outside. [Additional highlights listed below] Rick Robinson was out. And it was great talking to him while we watched over the lake. A surprise was Elaine Kirk. Rick walked the western dike of the lake and added Field Sparrows, Fox Sparrow, American Tree Sparrow, and 11 Wilson’s Snipe. <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Heron, Wilson’s Snipe, Ring-billed Gulls, Fox Sparrow, Field Sparrows, American Tree Sparrow, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 2,084, Miles – 0.89, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 48; this season: 75 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (3):” American Tree Sparrow, Field Sparrow, and Fox Sparrow. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks sunny with light favorable winds <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 20, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Kevin Georg, Peter Livengood
Visitors: 5
Weather: clear sunny day. blue skies with haze in valley clearing some later in day. Winds estimated 10-15 mph west to WSW
Raptor Observations: nice look at most of the eagles for west wind. appeared to have good thermals in valley as raptors rose up quickly. 3 adult red tails hung around together seen fairly often not migrating. turkey vultures back and forth. Nice look at a juvenile golden eagle appeared close to hawkwatch then headed south, juvenile GE then spotted in the west went north and this was counted. 9:35 EST 4th year bald eagle went south as well as a mature BE near to that time .EST 9:17, 9:18, 9:25 adult BE. 9:26 juvenile BE. EST 9:53GE sub adult . EST 11:34 GE unknown age. 12:01 EST GE overhead. 12:14 EST GE subadult.
Predictions: sunny to partly cloudy in afternoon , mainly west to sw winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nancy Ott (<ednancy.ott...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Ken Felix, Russ States
Visitors: Russ States assisted with the count through the day and Ken Felix assisted for a couple of hours. Visitors included Richard Naber, a hawk watcher from Michigan who was on his way north to visit the other hawk watches along the eastern Great Lakes all the way to Derby Hill. Julie Leonard, and two or three others stopped by for a visit.
Weather: Clear skies with SSW wind early becoming WSW later, though it remained cold through the day
Raptor Observations: There was an even flow of TVs all day, picking up a bit more the final 2.5 hours of the watch. Many Bald Eagles believed to be locals, but a few were appeared to be migrants. Birds were low at first then rising so high they were nearly out of binocular view. The hawk flight was very slow. Spotting them was a challenge against the clear blue skies. Highlight was a dark morph Rough-legged Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow 25 and a few Rock Pigeons. Little else.
Predictions: More of the same, though a bit warmer with a few clouds. Hopefully a few more hawks and expect many more vultures.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Monday, 27 February 2023 through Monday, 13 March 2023 (TWO WEEKS)
**This report is distributed by e-mail only. Compiler is not responsible for errors on websites who reproduce/reprint these reports. If you would like to receive western PA RBAs, contact AMYTARACIDO@ YAHOO.COM
Transcript-
NOTE: LISTSERV messages/reporting have been quite reduced in the past year+, which results in smaller RBAs. TUNDRA SWAN continue to be reported.
MERCER COUNTY:
On 3/8 at Rattlesnake Swamp, 7 SANDHILL CRANES, 33 RUSTY BLACKBIRDS (KS).
At Lake Wilhelm on 3/13, 1 RED-THROATED LOON (JS).
VENANGO COUNTY:
At Kahle Lake on 3/2, 2 HORNED LARKS, ~47 REDHEADS; on 3/6, 4 LONG-TAILED DUCKS, 3 REDHEADS; on 3/7, 40-56 LONG-TAILED DUCKS, 68 CANVASBACKS, BUFFLEHEADS; on 3/9, 73 CANVASBACKS, 7 REDHEADS, 2 COMMON GOLDENEYES; on 3/11, CANVASBACKS, 4 HORNED LARKS; on 3/13, CANVASBACKS (JS).
On 3/7 at a private pond, 5 LONG-TAILED DUCKS (JS).
Date: 3/20/23 2:02 pm From: Amy Taracido <amytaracido...> Subject: RBA western Pennsylvania, 27 February 2023 (two weeks)
RBA
*Pennsylvania
*Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania
*PAWE02.27.23TWOWEEKS
Highlights:
NORTHERN SHRIKE (Clarion County)
Contributors: Jerry McWilliams, Jerry Stanley, Linda Wagner, Carole Winslow.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Monday, 13 February 2023 through Monday, 27 February 2023 (TWO WEEKS)
**This report is distributed by e-mail only. Compiler is not responsible for errors on websites who reproduce/reprint these reports. If you would like to receive western PA RBAs, contact AMYTARACIDO@ YAHOO.COM
Transcript-
NOTE: LISTSERV messages/reporting have been quite reduced in the past year+, which results in smaller RBAs. GREEN-WINGED TEAL, GADWALL, TUNDRA SWAN continue to be reported.
CLARION COUNTY:
In Mt. Airy on 2/17, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 1 NORTHERN SHRIKE (CW).
ERIE COUNTY:
At Presque Isle State Park on 2/25, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER (JM).
LAWRENCE COUNTY:
From last week: in eastern Lawrence County on 2/3, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS (LW).
MERCER COUNTY:
From last week: in southwestern Mercer County on 2/4, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 1 ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, and others; also in Mercer on 2/8, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 1 HORNED LARK, 3 SANDHILL CRANES (LW).
VENANGO COUNTY:
On 2/23 in various unspecified locations, REDHEADS, BUFFLEHEADS, and others (JS).
Contributors: Mike Fialkovich, Gigi Gerben, Meg Kolodick, Tom Kuehl, Dan Richards, Kim Springer, Jerry Stanley, Linda Wagner.
Compiler: Amy Taracido
Monday, 30 January 2023 through Monday, 13 February 2023 (TWO WEEKS)
**This report is distributed by e-mail only. Compiler is not responsible for errors on websites who reproduce/reprint these reports. If you would like to receive western PA RBAs, contact AMYTARACIDO@ YAHOO.COM
Transcript-
NOTE: LISTSERV messages/reporting have been quite reduced in the past year+, which results in smaller RBAs. AMERICAN WIGEON continue to be reported, and first-of-year AMERICAN WOODCOCKS.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY:
Near Dashields Dam on 2/4, 2 LONG-TAILED DUCKS (MF).
FOREST COUNTY:
In northwestern Forest County on 2/10, 13 EVENING GROSBEAKS (KS).
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
Along State Route 830 in Washington Township on 2/2, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE (DR).
LAWRENCE COUNTY:
On 2/2 in western Lawrence County, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 10 HORNED LARKS (LW).
SOMERSET COUNTY:
In east-central Somerset County on 2/2, sightings included 5 NORTHERN HARRIERS, COMMON RAVENS (TK).
VENANGO COUNTY:
At a private pond on 2/9, 17 NORTHERN PINTAILS (JS).
On 2/12 at Oil Creek State Park, 4 COMMON GOLDENEYES (MK).
WASHINGTON COUNTY:
In an unspecified private location through 2/7, 1 NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL (GG).
On 2/9 in northern Washington County, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER (GG).
Observation start time: 12:00:00 Observation end time: 16:15:00 Total observation time: 2.25 hours
Compiler: Sarah Way
Counters: Bracken Brown, Charles Khumalo, David Barber, Diego Rodriguez
Weather: Clear skies, NW wind 1-7 km/h
Raptor Observations:
Non-raptor Observations:
======================================================================== Report submitted by Laurie Goodrich (<goodrich...>) Hawk Mountain Sanctuary information may be found at: http://www.hawkmountain.org/
Date: 3/20/23 8:50 am From: Moses Martin <00000164618c6282-dmarc-request...> Subject: New yard bird! Columbia Cty
Was out in the yard with the dog a few minutes ago and had a bird kick up and then land just 15 or 20 yards away. An American Woodcock! Thankfully the dog didn't notice :-)
Moses MartinMillville, PA
Date: 3/20/23 12:05 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (19 Mar 2023) 17 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 19, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Kathy Stroh, Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Kathy Stroh, Rick Robinson <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (6) and Turkey Vultures (39).
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> The horrible winds continued at Chambers Lake, today; even worse than yesterday. The waterfowl remained essentially the same on the lake. An obvious addition to the fauna was the Common Loon in transitional plumage which was very actively feeding among the whitecaps. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Common Loon, Great Blue Herons, Ring-billed Gulls, Eastern Phoebe, American Pipits, and Kingfishers. <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 1,129, Miles – 0.5, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 45; this season: 72 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (1):” Common Loon. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks pretty good with calmer winds shifting south but very sunny skies. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/19/23 8:34 pm From: Jim Morgan <morganjj...> Subject: Re: Wild turkeys
We have 25 (with 5 toms) on the other side of the Allegheny River river in
the ravine that follows Lime Hollow Road. I see them most days on the
cliff above the North side of the road. I have a short video of two mating
in our backyard March 6th. During the winter there was a smaller group of
6 that would come by, then the larger group formed in late February.
Jim Morgan
On Sat, Mar 18, 2023 at 6:12 PM Cecelia Hard <ceceliahard...>
wrote:
> Allegheny County, Fox Chapel, Hemlock Hollow Road
>
> A flock of 14 wild turkeys, males and females ground foraging near the
> road.
> The males were displaying, strutting with fanned tails.
>
>
>
> Cecelia Hard
>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 19, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Dove - 1, American Crow - 8, Common Raven - 3, American Robin - 19
Predictions: Uncertain; conditions should improve from previous 2 days ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:45:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers: Ed Gowarty,Sr
Visitors: None. Ed Gowarty assisted with spotting.
Weather: Sunshine with cumulous clouds. Temp -8 degrees C to -3 degrees C. Wind out of the west. Aver velocity 18 mph with gusts to 28 mph. Visibility 20 to 30 km. Intervals of snow flurries in valley.
Raptor Observations: No migrant raptors observes. 4 to 5 non-migrant turkey vultures.
Predictions: Sunny. High of 44 degrees F. Wind from the west 10-15 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Date: 3/19/23 3:07 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (18 Mar 2023) 31 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 18, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (10): Dorothy Bedford, John Daniel, Samir & Yusuf Saadeh, John Mercer, Julie Sheehan, Joanne Karkosak, Dave Karkosak, and Sue Vanasse <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (10) and Turkey Vultures (33). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-2; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-4 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> __ <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> __ <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (_): Monarch - _, Cabbage White, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, Eastern Tailed Blue, Clouded Sulphur, Pearl Crescent, Black Swallowtail, Orange Sulphur, Common Checkered Skipper, Buckeye, Red-spotted Purple, Variegated Fritillary, Wild Indigo Duskywing, Silver-spotted Skipper, Sachem, Red Admiral, Least Skipper, Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Comma, Meadow Fritillary, Mourning Cloak, American Lady, Viceroy, Cloudless Sulphur, Giant Swallowtail, Little Wood Satyr, Spring Azure. Dragonflies (_): Green Darner, Black Saddlebags, Halloween Pennant, Twelve-spotted Skimmer. Reptiles & Amphibians (_): Spring Peeper, Green Frog, American Toad. Mammals (_): Sasquatch(?), Eastern Cottontail, Eastern Gray Squirrel, White-tailed Deer, Meadow Vole, House Mouse, Woodchuck, Big Brown Bat, Eastern Chipmunk, Red Squirrel, Red Fox, Striped Skunk. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 6,380, Miles – 2.71, Floors – 7 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch, but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 49; this season: 71 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (1):” Towhee. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks mostly sunny but with even stronger NW winds. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Brian M. Wargo
Observers: Bob Stewart
Visitors: Four
Weather: Partly cloudy and 27°F with west wind in the morning. More sun and temperatures reaching freezing by afternoon. West winds were gusty at times.
Predictions: West winds, partly sunny, and temperatures reaching the freezing mark. Similar to today. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Brian M. Wargo (<brianwargo...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 18, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/18/23 7:15 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following were seen or heard on the morning bird walk from the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol, PA.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, US
Mar 18, 2023 7:30 AM - 9:35 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Participants: 430 species
Canada Goose 15
Wood Duck 8
Mallard 6
Hooded Merganser 12
Common Merganser 3
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 4
Mourning Dove 3
Ring-billed Gull 1
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Great Blue Heron 2
Cooper's Hawk 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 4
Downy Woodpecker 3
Hairy Woodpecker 2
Northern Flicker 2
Carolina Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 4
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Carolina Wren 5
European Starling 6
American Robin 12
House Sparrow 5
House Finch 2
American Goldfinch 1
White-throated Sparrow 28
Song Sparrow 4
Swamp Sparrow 1
Red-winged Blackbird 10
Rusty Blackbird 4
Northern Cardinal 3
Date: 3/18/23 1:46 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (17 Mar 2023) 8 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 17, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (7): Bruce Foreacre, Mary Alice Knox, Elaine Deutsch, Liz Lyng, John Alessi, and Eric Hartshaw <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 2-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (12) and Turkey Vultures (33). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-1; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-1; adult-1 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> The weather this morning was spectacular at Chambers Lake Hawk Watch. After the weather we’ve endured, I can’t believe I said that but it was. Bird activity was strong, too, with even more diversified waterfowl on the lake. There was much activity hereabouts until the weather went south at 1pm with rain forcing me into the van yet again. Drats, it sure was nice while it lasted. I still await my first migrant Osprey, too. [Additional highlights listed below] Old friend and local resident, Bruce Foreacre was out. A real surprise was Mary Alice Knox – 95 year old, Mary Alice Knox! Birders have such amazing spirits and Mary Alice sure has her share. Up until she was nearly 80 she was known to camp alone across the United States and kayak the area lakes. Even now, she spoke of taking it out on the lake; her daughter quickly vetoed the notion. The spirit is willing, but the body lacking. Long live the spirit of Mary Alice! Now, she was complaining about her eyes and being old – the very things I remember her complaining about 40 years ago! Some things never change. Her daughter, Elaine Deutsch was here, as were Liz Lyng, John Alessi, and Eric Hartshaw from northern PA. They were all out enjoying the much better weather of the morning. <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Gadwall, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, American Coot, Great Blue Herons, Ring-billed Gulls, American Pipits, Eastern Phoebes, and Kingfishers. <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 2,556, Miles – 1.09, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 51; this season: 70 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (4):” Gadwall, American Coot, American Pipit, and Dark-eyed Junco. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks fairly good but with increasing winds. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/17/23 11:36 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: PSU Arboretum Walks
AArboretum Bird Walks Spring 2023 Schedule
FREE NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED OPEN TO ADULTS (18+)
Monday, April 10
Monday, April 17
Monday, April 24
Monday, May 1
Monday May 8
All walks are scheduled from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Join expert birders for a bird watching walk during the height of spring migration season! All levels of experience are welcome.
Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for wet ground, and bring binoculars if you have them. (The Arboretum has a limited number of pairs to loan out.) Walks will be cancelled in the event of steady rain.
Margaret Brittingham, Julian Avery, Joe Gyekis and I will be leading these.
Deborah S Grove
Margaret Brittingham, Julian Avery, Joe Gyekis and me will be leading these.
Observation start time: 12:00:00 Observation end time: 12:45:00 Total observation time: 0.75 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: Low cloud cover, strong SSW to 25 mph, temp. 9 C falling to 7 C, then winds becoming west.
Raptor Observations: A call from a friend who lives along the bayfront alerted me that vultures were on the move at 1145 EST. So, I caught the tail end of the flight before heavy rain and a wind shift shut it down.
Non-raptor Observations:
Predictions: WSW, but much colder with a high of about 0 C and up to an inch of snow. No lakeshore flight likely.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/17/23 1:59 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (16 Mar 2023) 77 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 16, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Bill Burkert, Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Rick Robinson, Bill Burkert <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 2-Bald Eagle, 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (16) and Turkey Vultures (36). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-2; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-1; adult-2 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Finally, a day made for humans! Gone are the gale-force winds, replaced by a gentle breeze with the temps soaring to mid-50s. I can sit outside! Once at Chambers Lake, conditions were so much better. Still, what wind there was sure was cold. Rick walked the western dike finding 17 Wilson’s Snipe! Later, Bill did the same seeing the Snipe, while adding Phoebe and Chipping Sparrow. Vultures were really on the move today. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Heron, Wilson’s Snipe, Ring-billed Gulls, Eastern Phoebe, Chipping Sparrow, and Kingfishers <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 3,151, Miles – 1.34, Floors – 2 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 44; this season: 66 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (4):” Wilson’s Snipe, Eastern Phoebe, Brown-headed Cowbird, and Chipping Sparrow. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks calm again, but cloudy. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers: Don Snyder, Jim Baxter, Ken Felix
Visitors: Ken Felix helped with the count all day. Roger Donn, Jim Baxter and his grandson David, and Don Snyder assisted with the count for a while. Visitors included my wife Linda, Mark Lethaby, Jim Flynn, Brian Pardini, Julie Leonard, and about seven other people.
Weather: Variably cloudy and cool with a steady SSW all day
Raptor Observations: A rather productive day for this early in the season, but not surprised because of several days in a row with north wind. With the south wind birds were kept close to the lake. Birds were flying at all heights with TVs being the predominant raptor counted. Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks moved through in singles and small groups throughout the day. Bald Eagles made a very good showing, but it becomes more difficult these days to determine which ones are migrants and which ones are local birds. Highlights today included a Northern Goshawk and a Rough-legged Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Small flocks of blackbirds and robins moving NE. Highlight was three Sandhill Cranes. Other birds noted were Great Blue Heron 1, Gull species 25, Red-bellied Woodpecker 1, American Crow 65, Canada Goose 4, Mourning Dove 6, and Eastern Meadowlark 1.
Predictions: Continued relatively mild, but with rain showers. If there are breaks in the rain, there may be some birds moving, but it doesn't look promising.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 16, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: George Young, Judy Sinn, Kathy Bechdel, Nina Wolf, Warren Wolf
Visitors: George Young, Kathy and Dave Bechdel, Warren and Nina Wolf, Susan Smith, Lauren Weiss, Rick Sepp, Judy Sinn
Weather: Full sun and light wind all day with warmer temperatures in the afternoon. Wind switched from WNW to WSW later in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 9:45, Ad - 13:51, Ad - 14:48, (2)Ad and Unknown - 16:28
Non-migratory/residents: Black Vulture - 3, Turkey Vulture - 20, Bald Eagle - 2, Red-tailed Hawk - 4
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Dove - 1, American Crow - 5, Common Raven - 6, Black-capped Chickadee, European Starling - 6, American Robin - 6, House Finch - 1, Dark-eyed Junco - 1, Song Sparrow - 1, Red-winged Blackbird - 13, Brown-headed Cowbird - 2, Common Grackle - 3
Predictions: Uncertain; Rain and precipitation will likely hinder watch efforts ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Bob Stewart, Greg Gdula, Jim Rocco, Kevin Georg
Visitors: None
Weather: Partly cloudy, visibility 30km, moderate, then later light W winds, temp 0C to 14C
Raptor Observations: 1RS, 1 RT, 1TV, 1UR 7 GEs: sub @ 1:12, Ad @ 1:04, 1:20, 1:26, 1:49, 2:52, 2:54
3BEs observed that did not continue N, local RTs and TVs
Non-raptor Observations: BC Chickadees, WB Nuthatches, Tufted Titmice, Juncos, N Cardinals, Robins, E bluebirds, Mourning doves, Blue Jays, Crows, Ravens
Predictions: Rain showers throughout the day ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 15, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/15/23 4:30 pm From: K Springer <springer0707...> Subject: Re: Osprey - MERCER COUNTY
2nd confirmation of this today reported to me with more pictures from John Kolodziejski, retired Resources Manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Shenango Lake).
K Springer, Transfer, PA
On Wed, Mar 15, 2023, 3:38 PM K Springer <springer0707...> wrote:
> I just got word from a friend, Deb Lemons, that an Osprey has arrived at > Shenango Lake! (She isn't an eBirder. She sent me photos.) > > K Springer > Transfer, PA >
Date: 3/15/23 1:59 pm From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (15 Mar 2023) 5 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 15, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (2): Rick Robinson <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 2-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (4) and Turkey Vultures (25). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-1; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-1 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> This weather is unbelievable. March comes in like a Lion, Tiger, or something but not a Saber- tooth Tiger, like this, right! At Chambers Lake, Rick was here and we could not even set up a scope. On the positive side, the frequent gusts topped off at over 30 mph, not 50, plus! [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Herons, Ring-billed Gulls, and Kingfishers <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (1): Spring Peeper. Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 757, Miles – 0.32, Floors – 1 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch, but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 39; this season: 62 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks a bit better and warmer. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
I had the unbelievable good fortune of being outside at the right time this morning. Coming back after a quick walk, it was a little after 11 and I was headed inside. I heard some calls from above that sounded out of place and looked up, to my total astonishment there was a small flock of snow geese flying over, rather low so quite easy to see even before I put the bins up. Gorgeous white with black wing tips against the brilliant blue sky, and two birds that were of the dark morph but looked a little mixed, not totally dark. I didn't have a whole lot of time to study them but what a sight to see, and a fantastic add for my yard list for the farm ! Motto for the day, don't forget to look up !!
Date: 3/15/23 8:48 am From: Laurie Goodrich <Goodrich...> Subject: Pennsylvania Third Bird Atlas seeks a Coordinator
Hawk Mountain, working in conjunction with PA Game Commission and an Atlas Steering Committee, will be hiring an Atlas Coordinator to
assist with the launch of the Atlas in 2024. The person will be brought on this spring to prepare for this statewide effort.
Details on the position, qualifications needed, etc. are posted at www.hawkmountain.org<http://www.hawkmountain.org> under Job Opportunities.
A short description is below. Feel free to share with experienced ornithologists you know!
PENNSYLVANIA THIRD BIRD ATLAS COORDINATOR, a five-year position coordinating the Third Bird Atlas in Pennsylvania. The Atlas Coordinator will play a key role in the development, delivery, and implementation of the Atlas, including overseeing day-to-day operations, engaging, recruiting, and coordinating birders across the state, and ensuring the collection of high-quality data on Pennsylvania's birds. This person will also hire and supervise a team of point counters annually and take the lead on Atlas outreach and data oversight. Position will be housed at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Orwigsburg, PA, with possibility of remote work within Pennsylvania.
To apply send resume, cover letter and three professional references by email to <goodrich...><mailto:<goodrich...> with subject: PA Atlas Coordinator position.
Laurie Goodrich, Ph.D.
Director of Conservation Science
Pronouns<https://www.mypronouns.org/>: She/Her
Acopian Center for Conservation Learning
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Association
410 Summer Valley Road
Orwigsburg, PA 17961
570-943-3411 x106
Date: 3/15/23 4:49 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (14 Mar 2023) 8 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 14, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (1): Just me in this weather <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Turkey Vultures (30). <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> This weather is killing us. Today, the rain stops but the wind howls with gusts exceeding 50 MPH! It was cold too, with temps in the low 30s. What kind of wind chill is THAT!?!? Adam, help me out, buddy! Once at Chambers Lake, I remained in the van to survive, seeing all the regular birds but precious little braving the wind. A Ring-billed Gull headed north, struggled against that wind, at times stalling in midair. It was rough out here! [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Heron, Ring-billed Gulls, and Kingfishers <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 605, Miles – 0.26, Floors – 3 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 36; this season: 62 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks still more of the same Hellish wind. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 14, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-raptor Observations: Killdeer - 23, American Crow - 4, Common Raven - 4
Predictions: Uncertain; NW winds are favorable ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 3.5 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: Observation started no wind, fog,visibility limited to trees around hawkwatch. Around 11a EST fog opened to Helixville then fogged in again with some clearing around 11:30a. Wind from west picked up to at least 10 km/hr around 11:30. periodic white outs in valley. Watch terminated 12p EST.
Raptor Observations: None
Non-raptor Observations: Trees were coated with snow and ice. Chickadees, nuthatches,tufted titmouse,downy and red bellied woodpeckers, bluejays, gray squirrel. they all disappeared when wind increased.
Predictions: West wind, snow with wind advisory for later in the day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Date: 3/14/23 10:39 am From: Barbara Stollsteimer <barbara.stoll...> Subject: Bucks County Birders March meeting with Lauryn Benedict
Hello Birders,
Due to some scheduling conflicts, we will be having our March meeting a week early, Tuesday the 21st at 6:45pm, by Zoom only. This is an excellent presentation that you will not want to miss. Lauryn presented at last years PSO meeting. If you missed it then, now is your chance. Please email <bucksbirders...><mailto:<bucksbirders...> for the link.
Title: She sings too! Female bird songs in North America and beyond
Presentation description: Do female birds sing? They certainly do. Female bird song is more common and widespread than is generally appreciated. This presentation will offer an overview of the diversity of female songs, including many from North America and a few used in spectacular partner duets. It will discuss what can be learned from studying the songs of female birds, and explain how birders can help advance the field by looking for singing females in their own backyards.
Bio: Lauryn Benedict is fascinated by the social lives of birds. She has spent 20+ years researching birds to figure out how they use sounds to signal meaning and coordinate behaviors. Her recent work examines song in both male and female birds. Lauryn holds a B.A. from Cornell University and a Ph.D. from the University of California Berkeley. She is a Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado, where she teaches about ornithology, animal behavior, and animal diversity.
Tentative Agenda:
"Early Birds Chat" - local notes
Membership Report
Heritage Conservancy's Bioblitz event for Croydon Woods May 18th and 19th
Beginning Birders 101 walk at Washington Crossing
April 29th trip to Bellplain State Forest
Program director search and other ways you can be involved!
7pm Lauryn Benedict Presentation
Date: 3/14/23 3:40 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (12 Mar 2023) 12 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 12, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Gid Honsinger, Russell Rogers, Terry Villanueva
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (4): Russell Rogers, Gid Honsinger, and Terry Villanueva <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (5) and Turkey Vultures (25). <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> It was pretty much status quo at Chambers Lake today. We need a change in birds and weather and its coming. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Snow Geese, Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Ring-billed Gulls, and Kingfishers <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 5,229, Miles – 2.23, Floors – 1 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 40; this season: 62 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like a rainy washout. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/13/23 3:45 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: was Ohiopyle CBC conducted?
Audubon is finishing up data entry for the recent Christmas Bird Count. Does anyone know if the Ohiopyle count was conducted? That is the only PA site with no data entered.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 12, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Kathy Bechdel, Katie Slawitschek, Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Katie Slawitschek, Kathy & Dave Bechdel, Ken Bowman
Weather: Full cloud cover and cold all day. There was a period of light snow at 1pm and 4:30pm. The day was cut short by the poor visibility and snow at 4:30pm.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Im - 9:55, J - 1:01
Non-raptor Observations: Ring-billed Gull - 40, Pileated Woodpecker - 2, American Crow - 9, Common Raven - 4, European Starling - 8, American Robin - 2
Predictions: Uncertain; weather conditions will not be conducive for observation of raptors or their migration ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 3/12/23 5:16 pm From: Michael Fialkovich <0000012b4af48ab0-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Belted Kingfishers at Churchill Greenway
I saw one many years ago when the property was still a golf course but have not seen any since then that I can remember.
Mike FialkovichAllegheny County
On Sunday, March 12, 2023 at 07:55:35 PM EDT, Hayley Kile <pezolut...> wrote:
Jen Horovitz and I heard the chatter and then spotted two belted kingfishers today down by the run at Churchill Greenway today around 12:30. Can anyone else confirm that they have seen a pair there? HayleyChurchill, Pittsburgh, PA
Date: 3/12/23 5:08 pm From: Christopher T <christurbert...> Subject: Re: Belted Kingfishers at Churchill Greenway
I've seen one along Chalfant Run, but not two.
On Sun, Mar 12, 2023, 7:55 PM Hayley Kile <pezolut...> wrote:
> Jen Horovitz and I heard the chatter and then spotted two belted > kingfishers today down by the run at Churchill Greenway today around 12:30. > Can anyone else confirm that they have seen a pair there? > HayleyChurchill, Pittsburgh, PA >
Jen Horovitz and I heard the chatter and then spotted two belted kingfishers today down by the run at Churchill Greenway today around 12:30. Can anyone else confirm that they have seen a pair there? HayleyChurchill, Pittsburgh, PA
Observation start time: 07:15:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart, Erika Bowman, Paul Fritz
Observers: Bob Stewart, Ed Gowarty,Sr, Jim Rocco, Paul Fritz
Visitors: Helping with the count: Jim Rocco, Ed Gowarty, Sr. Counters: Paul Fritz 7:30-9:15 AM; Bob Stewart 9:15 AM-12 noon; Erika Bowman 12-1:45 PM.
Weather: Cold -Temp -5 degrees C to -4 degrees C. 100% Cloud Cover with a high ceiling. Moderate wind out of the SE. Morning visibility was 27 km. Visibility decreased to 100 feet with a snow squall about 11:30 EST. Snow ended by 12:30 PM but was replaced with wind driven dense fog which froze on trees. Visibility remained less than 100 ft. Watch terminated at 1:45 PM EST.
Raptor Observations: 2 Bald Eagles:9:05 EST SubAd; 10:28 EST Adult 1 Cooper's Hawk. 2 Red-tailed hawks flying south (not counted). 1 Cooper's Hawk in breeding flight display. (not counted)
Predictions: Cloud with AM snow showers. High of 37 degrees F. Wind from the west at 10-15 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Date: 3/12/23 8:38 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (11 Mar 2023) 15 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 11, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (1): Just me...cold! <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (20) and Turkey Vultures (27). <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Chambers Lake was still slow on hawks, big on waterfowl. I expect the first real push of hawks with the next front. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Green-winged Teal, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Ring-billed Gulls, Great Blue Heron, and Kingfishers <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 2,631, Miles – 1.12, Floors – 4 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 44; this season: 62 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks better with light, changeable winds. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/12/23 3:19 am From: jerry stanley <bhnsjerry...> Subject: Fw: [PABIRDS] waterfowl question
From: Robert Mulvihill <robert.mulvihill...>
Sent: Friday, March 10, 2023 9:12 AM
To: jerry stanley <bhnsjerry...>
Subject: Re: [PABIRDS] waterfowl question
Hi Jerry,
I have always led my waterfowl outings in the morning, albeit not at first light. I like to plan my route and stops so that the sun is over our shoulder, giving good light to our subjects. I agree with you concerning the volume of migration in spring versus fall--indeed, I lead three spring waterfowl tours for every one fall tour. I suspect that the reason we see bigger concentrations of ducks in spring migration has to do with their urgency getting back to the breeding grounds. Basically, they get more bunched up in their rush north. Also, in fall they have lakes freezing behind them as they go (keeping them moving right along), but in spring the opposite is true.
That'll be a penny, Jerry, which is a very good deal, because I gave you my two cents! ;)
Best,
Bob
Robert S. Mulvihill
Ornithologist
Department of Conservation and Field Research
National Aviary
700 Arch Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
412-522-5729 (cell)
<Robert.mulvihill...><mailto:<Robert.mulvihill...> The National Aviary<http://www.aviary.org> works to inspire respect for nature
through an appreciation of birds.
"It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice."
--sign over the work table of a carpenter named Jeno, who was a master cabinet maker at Boswell Lumber in Somerset Co., PA in the 1970s, and who unfailingly dropped whatever he was doing to help a young boy turn rough drawings of his latest idea for a custom bird feeder or nest box into well-fitting pieces that could be assembled into the real thing!
On Fri, Mar 10, 2023 at 5:21 AM jerry stanley <bhnsjerry...><mailto:<bhnsjerry...>> wrote:
A birding friend asked "What's the best time of day to see the most waterfowl?" I don't know the answer to that. I usually get to Kahle Lake about 10 AM for reasons unrelated to birding. I have a sense that morning is better but I don't feel strongly about this. When there's a lot of boating activity, the chance of boats driving off birds increases as the day goes on. Also, if conditions favor migration, birds will leave as the day goes on. Just a couple days ago, 40 Long-tailed ducks flew off as I arrived. Would 7, 8, or 9 AM be better? How about mid to late afternoon?
Here in Venango County, it seems that stormy weather that day or the night before, makes for better waterfowling. But just recently, a large number of birds have arrived and hung around for 3 days and I don't recall a weather event responsible for them dropping in. Northerly winds probably kept them here. So, in March and April, I think it's good to check whenever you can and whatever time it is.
One last question in my mind. Why do I find MANY, MANY more waterfowl in spring compared to fall, even though there are fewer birds alive by spring?
I am interested in hearing other people's thoughts.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 11, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Angela Fasold, Don Pote, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Don Pote, Holly Pote, Angela Fasold, Matt Fasold, Golden Eagle Tour Group from the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park
Weather: Full cloud cover and cold all day. NNW tapered off slightly towards the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 9:56, Ad - 10:00, Ad - 10:34, Ad - 11:37, Ad - 11:58, Ad - 3:50 *Unknown Golden Eagle seen hunting at 2:16 before heading southwest along ridge.
Special thanks to Angela Fasold who spotted our Adult Golden Eagle at 3:50
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 35, American Crow - 8, Common Raven - 9, Tufted Titmouse - 1
Predictions: Uncertain; Possible shorter day due to impending inclement weather ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 11, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Angela Fasold, Don Pote, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Don Pote, Holly Pote, Angela Fasold, Matt Fasold, Golden Eagle Tour Group from the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park
Weather: Full cloud cover and cold all day. NNW tapered off slightly towards the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 9:56, Ad - 10:00, Ad - 10:34, Ad - 11:37, Ad - 11:58, Ad - 3:50 *Unknown Golden Eagle seen hunting at 2:16 before heading southwest along ridge.
Special thanks to Angela Fasold who spotted our Adult Golden Eagle at 3:50
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 35, American Crow - 8, Common Raven - 9, Tufted Titmouse - 1
Predictions: Uncertain; Possible shorter day due to impending inclement weather ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>) Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Waterfowl migration is definitely under way here in Snyder! Starting last week, Faylor Lake has been hosting numerous duck species. With much of the lake being 2-6 feet deep, it offers plenty of food for dabblers as well as some diving ducks. Today my brother Ryan and I observed 40 Green-winged Teal, 4 Northern Shovelers, 35 Hooded Mergansers, 38 Ring-necked Ducks, 12 Redheads, 3 Horned Grebes, 8 Buffleheads, and several Lesser Scaup, Gadwall, Wood Ducks, and American Wigeons.
Happy spring birding!
Date: 3/11/23 5:18 am From: Lisa Dziuban <dziubanlisa...> Subject: Woodcock - Plumstead Twp., Bucks Co.
Yesterday around 5:00pm when I was getting the mail I heard the distinctive call of a Woodcock across the street in the basin/wetland area. A chilly rain/snow shower was falling. So great to hear that sound that I hadn’t heard in several years.
Lisa Dziuban
“We must think deeply about the things that are free and give us peace and enjoyment in our lives. No matter what greatness in man’s world one may achieve, it is the simple pleasures that give us satisfaction and fulfillment”
James J. Fritz
Date: 3/11/23 4:54 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (10 Mar 2023) 5 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 10, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 2-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Turkey Vultures (19). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-2; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-_ <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Chambers Lake was quickly shrouded by low clouds this morning. Gone were those ridiculous winds, though, which have plagued the beginning of this year’s hawk watch. . There was a strong early morning movement of Geese – Snow Geese and Canada - and a few Tundra Swans. At 11:30 it began to snow. Later, a steadier rain fell. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Snow Geese, Tundra Swans, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Ring-billed Gulls, Black-capped Chickadees, Eastern Meadowlarks, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 334, Miles – 0.34, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 39; this season: 62 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (1):” Black-capped Chickadee. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks a bit rough to start with rain & snow, low clouds and strong wind. Not good. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
From my experience, morning is good. But my personal favorite time to watch for ducks is at sunset, though. They come in to land for the night in rushes or on any lake just at sunset or shortly thereafter. I've never tried it at a large body of water like Lake Erie, but I've watched at Geneva Swamp and other ponds, marshes and lakes that dot Crawford Co. I have more mental images of ducks landing at nightfall melded into my mind than I can recount here. But I can see as clearly as when I was there the flocks of 30 and 40 Pintails circling in to land at Miller Ponds with a beautiful March sunset as a background, and the first spring peepers and woodcocks calling. Or see a flock of white Buffleheads landing in the dusk just after sunset. Just this year on a beautiful Saturday evening I found 20+ Pintail preening and actively feeding on the local gamelands. They had obviously just landed after a day of migration. The sun was hitting them and they were absolutely stunning. You can hardly beat the beauty of spring duck migration. It's the first chance to get outside in the first beautiful spring weather of the year with beautiful birds, to boot.
As far as why the number of waterfowl is higher in the spring compared to fall. According to my understanding, spring migration is higher pressure. The birds are driving as hard as they can toward their nesting grounds. All the birds show up in a few weeks' time, and then they are gone. In contrast, the fall migration is much more spread out. The ducks trickle back through over several months instead of several weeks. So the result is a higher concentration in the spring, even though fewer birds.
Interesting to hear other or better explanations.
Kendall Zook Crawford Co.
-----Original Message----- From: Bird discussion list for Pennsylvania [mailto:<PABIRDS...>] On Behalf Of jerry stanley Sent: Friday, March 10, 2023 5:21 AM To: <PABIRDS...> Subject: [PABIRDS] waterfowl question
A birding friend asked "What's the best time of day to see the most waterfowl?" I don't know the answer to that. I usually get to Kahle Lake about 10 AM for reasons unrelated to birding. I have a sense that morning is better but I don't feel strongly about this. When there's a lot of boating activity, the chance of boats driving off birds increases as the day goes on. Also, if conditions favor migration, birds will leave as the day goes on. Just a couple days ago, 40 Long-tailed ducks flew off as I arrived. Would 7, 8, or 9 AM be better? How about mid to late afternoon?
Here in Venango County, it seems that stormy weather that day or the night before, makes for better waterfowling. But just recently, a large number of birds have arrived and hung around for 3 days and I don't recall a weather event responsible for them dropping in. Northerly winds probably kept them here. So, in March and April, I think it's good to check whenever you can and whatever time it is.
One last question in my mind. Why do I find MANY, MANY more waterfowl in spring compared to fall, even though there are fewer birds alive by spring?
I am interested in hearing other people's thoughts.
Date: 3/10/23 10:43 am From: Bob Schutsky <info...> Subject: Little Gull, Southern Lancaster County
Dear PABirders,
An adult Little Gull is feeding over the Susquehanna River near my home in Peach Bottom. It is with a small flock of Bonaparte's Gulls. It may be visible from the boat launch at the end of Peach Bottom, or up or downriver from there. I first saw it at 1:15pm.
Date: 3/10/23 7:14 am From: K Springer <springer0707...> Subject: Re: waterfowl question
>
>
> I seem to find the most here in Mercer County in the early morning
> (depending on weather and wind of course). 8am.
>
> K Springer
> Transfer, PA
>
> On Fri, Mar 10, 2023 at 5:21 AM jerry stanley <bhnsjerry...>
> wrote:
>
>> A birding friend asked "What's the best time of day to see the most
>> waterfowl?" I don't know the answer to that. I usually get to Kahle Lake
>> about 10 AM for reasons unrelated to birding. I have a sense that morning
>> is better but I don't feel strongly about this. When there's a lot of
>> boating activity, the chance of boats driving off birds increases as the
>> day goes on. Also, if conditions favor migration, birds will leave as the
>> day goes on. Just a couple days ago, 40 Long-tailed ducks flew off as I
>> arrived. Would 7, 8, or 9 AM be better? How about mid to late afternoon?
>>
>> Here in Venango County, it seems that stormy weather that day or the
>> night before, makes for better waterfowling. But just recently, a large
>> number of birds have arrived and hung around for 3 days and I don't recall
>> a weather event responsible for them dropping in. Northerly winds probably
>> kept them here. So, in March and April, I think it's good to check whenever
>> you can and whatever time it is.
>>
>> One last question in my mind. Why do I find MANY, MANY more waterfowl in
>> spring compared to fall, even though there are fewer birds alive by spring?
>>
>> I am interested in hearing other people's thoughts.
>>
>> Jerry Stanley
>>
>
Date: 3/10/23 7:09 am From: A. Liebner <000000d98121eaef-dmarc-request...> Subject: Sch. County-Great Blue Heron behavior
Yesterday morning, 3/9/23, we drove by the ponds west of The Country Store in Friedensburg, Wayne Twp. Schuylkill Co., along rte 443 & jct. of Church Rd. Those ponds are a favorite hangout of a good many Canada Geese and a few ducks in recent weeks. As we passed by, we noticed a Great Blue Heron standing in shallow water at the center of one of the ponds. The C.Geese were on the other ponds and on the surrounding grounds.
Later in the day, we drove by around 4:30 and I saw two Great Blue Herons standing near the edge of one of the ponds engaged in "pecking' behavior. I wonder if it's a mating ritual. Note: Church Road doesn't have a safe place to pull over for a good look & photos, since it's very busy and along a curve and plus Stone Mountain Road, splits off around a sharp curve. Route 443 is an even worse place to pull over. There is a parking lot at a baseball field behind the ponds where you can safely park, but we didn't have time to stop there and walk to the ponds.
Robins have been increasing in numbers. The two Northern Flickers are constant visitors to the suet and window feeders.Ravens, Red-tailed Hawks are constantly flying over the chicken farm fields looking for goodies. At least 18 Turkey Vultures have been feeding on something in one of the fields.
Happy birding,
Ann M. Liebner
Wayne Twp. Schuylkill County
Date: 3/10/23 5:09 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (09 Mar 2023) 28 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 09, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (4) and Turkey Vultures (22).
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> It was very cold but a bit less wind today at Chambers Lake. Diminishing white-caps on the surface gave hope that tomorrow the weather will permit setting up outside though the overall forecast is not good – rain is coming. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Green-winged Teal, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 512, Miles – 0.22, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 36; this season: 61 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (0):” nothing. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like the winds will calm and shift to the SE ahead of a storm. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/10/23 2:21 am From: jerry stanley <bhnsjerry...> Subject: waterfowl question
A birding friend asked "What's the best time of day to see the most waterfowl?" I don't know the answer to that. I usually get to Kahle Lake about 10 AM for reasons unrelated to birding. I have a sense that morning is better but I don't feel strongly about this. When there's a lot of boating activity, the chance of boats driving off birds increases as the day goes on. Also, if conditions favor migration, birds will leave as the day goes on. Just a couple days ago, 40 Long-tailed ducks flew off as I arrived. Would 7, 8, or 9 AM be better? How about mid to late afternoon?
Here in Venango County, it seems that stormy weather that day or the night before, makes for better waterfowling. But just recently, a large number of birds have arrived and hung around for 3 days and I don't recall a weather event responsible for them dropping in. Northerly winds probably kept them here. So, in March and April, I think it's good to check whenever you can and whatever time it is.
One last question in my mind. Why do I find MANY, MANY more waterfowl in spring compared to fall, even though there are fewer birds alive by spring?
I am interested in hearing other people's thoughts.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 09, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Judy Sinn, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Karen & John from Philadelphia, Brady Thomas, Mike Toolam, Sandy Smith, Ed Kaiser, David Joor, Mark Kauffman, Judy Sinn
Weather: Full sun nearly all day with moderate NNW/N wind tapering at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 11:15, Unknown - 12:25, Ad - 12:50, Unknown - 1:40, Unknown - 2:15, Ad - 3:10, Unknown - 3:25, Ad - 4:46
Non-migratory/residents: Black Vulture - 1, Turkey Vulture - 14, Bald Eagle - 2, Red Tailed Hawk - 4
Non-raptor Observations: Mourning Dove - 3, Downy Woodpecker - 1, American Crow - 12, Common Raven - 9, Black-capped Chickadee - 3, Tufted Titmouse - 1, Eastern Bluebird - 1, House Finch - 2
Predictions: Inclement weather will make spotting and migratory movement difficult to impossible. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Bob Stewart, Jim Rocco, Kevin Georg
Visitors: None
Weather: Moderate NW winds that lessened in the afternoon, partly cloudy, visibility 30km, temp -4C to 5C
Raptor Observations: 1 RS, 3 RTs, 4 TVs counted, other local TVs and RTs not counted
Non-raptor Observations: BC Chickadees, WB Nuthatches, Tufted Titmice, Juncos, N Cardinals, Robins, E bluebirds, Mourning doves, Blue Jays, Crows, Ravens
Predictions: Snow ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Date: 3/9/23 1:10 pm From: Tracy Snyder <tsnyder88...> Subject: Possible Pied crow—Adams county
On 3/8 while birding on Confederate Ave on the Gettysburg battlefield, we saw what appeared to be a Pied Crow!
Not sure if anyone else has seen this bird which must be an escapee as they appear to be native to Africa.
It was flying away just as we were pulling up to our regular 1st stop. We spoke to 3 different people who saw it. One person got a so-so photo. (We forgot to ask her for it.) Everyone said it looked like a crow with white on the upper breast that wrapped around its back. That’s what it looked like to us, too.
Date: 3/9/23 9:11 am From: Jim McGuire <000001c4e785b68a-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Osprey?
Observed adult Bald Eagle sitting on Osprey nest and second adult Eagle flew over woods at outflow on Monday the 6th. Nothing much else on water but 12 Mallards and 30 Ring-neck ducks plus Canada Geese.Jim McGuire
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
On Saturday, March 4, 2023, 2:49 PM, Glenn Koppel <macatilly...> wrote:
I just heard from someone on Facebook that Ospreys are back on the nest in Buzzard Swamp already! Anybody have any real reports on this? There is nothing in e-bird. I also do not know this person and do not know how well he knows his birds. Sounds more like a Bald Eagle is on the nest.
Glenn Koppel
Butler, PA
Date: 3/9/23 3:56 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (08 Mar 2023) 4 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 08, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (1): Just me as the wind continued <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: 2-Bald Eagle, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (7) and Turkey Vultures (19). <BR><BR> 1----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-1 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> March comes in like a lion, right? I get it but come on! This is ridiculous! Chambers Lake was full of white-caps as the wind pushed directly towards our side where the waves crashed along the near shoreline. This left the majority of the waterfowl tucked into the still water as far away as possible and I nestled into my van. There was surprisingly little flying in the sky above the lake today. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Northern Pintail, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Ring-billed Gull, Great Blue Heron, and Kingfisher. <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 906, Miles – 0.39, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 29; this season: 61 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (1):” Northern Pintail. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks very similar but with perhaps a touch less wind. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 08, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 07, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-raptor Observations: American Crow - 17, Common Raven - 13, Pileated Woodpecker - 1, duck sp. - 25
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Predictions: lt to mod NW winds;cloudy to partly cloudy;high 40-45F ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rosemary McGlynn (<denali...>)
Date: 3/8/23 7:02 am From: Rob Fergus <birdchaser...> Subject: Women in Birding, BCDC Monthly Meeting Program Tonight on Zoom
Women in Birding, a Force beyond Feathers - presented by Debbie Beer <https://www.facebook.com/debbie.beer1?__cft__[0]=AZUWwdxw1Sr_WvHZNFJChbVu9Umzr_kpyDcSVNQ8R99THQScsuRq6W4NU7NQ801H8twyt5VGt9-71Dk-fN-rb2TPVkoua66tqHZbh4KrYws6IyYiMEZ6ovcBOA-YyYgJiRs&__tn__=-]K-R> Birding Club of Delaware County Program - Wednesday March 8, 2023, 7:30 PM
Message me for the Zoom link
<>Women have connected to birds long before there were binoculars, smart phones or social media. As culture and communications evolve, the stories of women's roles in ornithology and birding are emerging with due prominence. In pre-industrial America, it took special grit for a woman to stand out in any scientific endeavor, amid scores of men. Fortunately, the scales are tipping for women making a difference as ornithologists, teachers, researchers, writers, artists, promoters, tour operators, and inspiration for all who love wild birds. From Rosalie Edge - the hellcat of raptor conservation, and Harriet Hemenway - the plume-scorning fashionista, to Graceanna Lewis - a maverick in bird taxonomy, and Rachel Carson, whose book saved countless endangered species, women have been influential members of the birding community for millenia. Join us to learn about a few women whose names may be unfamiliar, but whose impact is indelible as a force beyond feathers.
Debbie Beer has been an avid birder for more than 20 years. She's travelled to multiple countries and continents for birding, including Africa, India, Brazil and beyond. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia is Debbie's favorite local patch, where she directs the annual "Big Sit" event and leads monthly bird walks. Debbie is fortunate to blend professional and personal interests while working for Natural Lands as Director of Volunteers. In that capacity she manages robust volunteer programs including bird surveying, nestbox monitoring, trail stewardship and more. Debbie participates annually in Christmas Bird Counts, Philadelphia Mid-Winter Bird Census and other conservation initiatives. She is an avid eBirder, fellow of the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club (DVOC) and president of the Birding Club of Delaware County (BCDC). Debbie is passionate about sharing nature with others, supporting conservation, and advocating access to green space in a diverse, urban community.
Rob Fergus
Wallingford, PA
BCDC Vice-President
Located in Lenapehoking, traditional
homeland of the Unami Lenape people.
Date: 3/8/23 12:21 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (07 Mar 2023) 10 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 07, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Abigail DeAngeles, Kevin DeAngeles
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Kevin & Abigail DeAngeles <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (1) and Turkey Vultures (26). <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Winds were horrible at Chambers Lake – up to 40 MPH from the NW. It was impossible to linger outside in this weather! I did the best I could from the confines of my van office. A nicety was the pair of Common Goldeneyes huddled along the far shore. Very little was migrating in the gale. Winds remain all wrong. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Duck, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneyes, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Ring-billed Gulls, Great Blue Heron, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 1,583, Miles – 0.67, Floors – 1 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 30; this season: 60 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (1):” Common Goldeneye. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like much of the same with very strong NW winds. Another cold one! <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Dave Poder, Ed Gowarty,Sr, Greg Gdula, Janet Kuehl, Peter Livengood, Tom Kuehl
Visitors: 2
Weather: Mainly east winds, good cloud cover thin clouds and winds up to 12 mph wind speed. no precipitation. naked eye with occasional scope for better ID.
Raptor Observations: at one time 5 golden eagles kettling out over valley with 4 of that group going over head then headed north. 3:59 p very dark red tailed out over valley. Nice look at a peregrine falcon that headed south but later a peregrine was counted that headed north.Immature bald eagle rose up from valley close to the north end of hawkwatch and then disappeared down. 3 black vultures 1:17p headed from west over valley close look then headed south. Last GE counted 4:52p. of 32 Golden eagles all adult accept 3. 3 Bald eagles 1 adult
Non-raptor Observations: downy woodpecker,white breasted nuthatch,robin, blue birds,chickadees,cardinal,red winged black birds,ravens,tufted titmouses,pileated woodpecker, some gulls late in the day-distant
Predictions: northwest winds-no precipitation high 38 low 23 for tomorrow ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Jim Rocco
Observers: Bob Stewart, Nancy Ott
Visitors: Bob Stewart, Nancy Ott
Weather: Early morning snow delayed the start till 10. Strong winds from the NW average speed 19 mph. with gust up to 47 mph. Average temperature 1 C. Cloud cover went from 20% down to 0
Raptor Observations: Only two raptors counted for the day, one red tail and 1 adult golden eagle at 1:02. Local tv's not counted.
Non-raptor Observations: bc chicadee's, juncos , tufted titmouse, blue birds wb nuthatches. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Jim Rocco (<jd.jh.rocco...>)
________________________________
From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...>
Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2023 7:52 AM
To: pabirds <pabirds...>
Subject: PSO Birding Festival Registration now open!
Registration is now open for the PSO Birding Festival to be held at State College May 19-21. The link for registration and information about the field trips, speakers etc can be found here. You can order a t-shirt without attending the meeting.
https://pabirds.org/BirdingFestival/BF_conservation.php
Please feel free to post to your local clubs.
Deb
Deborah S Grove
________________________________
From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...>
Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2023 7:52 AM
To: pabirds <pabirds...>
Subject: PSO Birding Festival Registration now open!
Registration is now open for the PSO Birding Festival to be held at State College May 19-21. The link for registration and information about the field trips, speakers etc can be found here. You can order a t-shirt without attending the meeting.
https://pabirds.org/BirdingFestival/BF_conservation.php
Date: 3/7/23 4:52 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: PSO Birding Festival Registration now open!
Registration is now open for the PSO Birding Festival to be held at State College May 19-21. The link for registration and information about the field trips, speakers etc can be found here. You can order a t-shirt without attending the meeting.
https://pabirds.org/BirdingFestival/BF_conservation.php
Date: 3/7/23 1:23 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (06 Mar 2023) 11 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 06, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Dennis Reeves
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (2): Dennis Reeves <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 1-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (1) and Turkey Vultures (9). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-_; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-1; adult-2 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> I began the day by getting field brew at Turkey Hill. I will be able to sit outside after this wind has finally gone. Yay! Chambers Lake was far more comfortable today. An 8 to 10 MPH wind coming right off the lake in early March is still quite cold, but doable. I first saw a Double-crested Cormorant [my FOY] right off the boat ramp. This masterful fisherman was already quite waterlogged from a morning of fishing. It will soon have to rest on a log to dry off. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, Ring-billed Gulls, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, and Kingfisher <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (1): Spring Peeper. Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 3,479, Miles – 1.48, Floors – 0 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 36; this season: 59 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (2):” Great Blue Heron, Double-crested Cormorant. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks very windy, once again. Gusts approaching 40 from the NW. Not good... <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 12:00:00 Total observation time: 1.5 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: Mostly cloudy and cold with light east wind.
Raptor Observations: A group of six TVs appearing to have just lifted off nearby, casually flapping their way in a NE direction.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 20, Rock Pigeon 9, Mourning Dove 1, Ring-billed Gull 1, Herring Gull 2, Larus species 20, Red-bellied Woodpecker 1, Blue Jay 3, American Crow 12, European Starling 3, American Robin 17, House Finch 3, Common Grackle 50
Predictions: Cloudy in the AM clearing in the PM and cold with wind from the north to 20 mph. No flight likely.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/5/23 9:52 pm From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (05 Mar 2023) 15 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 05, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: George Graham, Samir Saadeh
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Samir Saadeh, George Graham <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (7) and Turkey Vultures (31).
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Once at Chambers Lake, I discovered gone was the Mute Swan, replaced by 10 Tundra Swans. Before noon, they too, had left. Then, at noon, Tree Swallows flew by [my FOY]. I have been waiting for those to show up. With the onset of spring, a bit better weather, and the weekend, human traffic on the lake was increased. This included quite a few boats being launched with the ever-present colorful language associated with mistakes noted. Fish stories were flying, too. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Tundra Swans, Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Green-winged Teal, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, Ring-billed Gulls, Herring Gulls, and Tree Swallows <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (1): Spring Peeper. Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 999, Miles – 0.43, Floors – 1 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 40; this season: 57 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (3):” Tundra Swan, Sharp-shinned Hawk, and Tree Swallow. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks much better with reduced wind. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 05, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Dan Pote, Gerald Gardner, Nick Bolgiano, Susan Smith
Visitors: Kathy & Dave Bechdel, Judy Simm, Ken Bownman (and grandson), Gerald Gardner, Liz Eisenhauer, John Macken, Susan Smith, Dan Pote
Weather: WNW wind was fairly light all day. Morning cloud cover gradually dissipated, allowing full sun at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 10:11, Ad - 10:53, Unknown - 11:35, Ad - 5:00
Non-migratory/residents: Black Vulture - 3, Turkey Vulture - 13, Bald Eagle - 2, Red-tailed Hawk - 2
Non-raptor Observations: Downy Woodpecker - 1, Pileated Woodpecker - 1, American Crow - 30 (est.), Common Raven - 15 (est.), Black-capped Chickadee - 1, European Starling - 5, Eastern Bluebird - 2, American Robin - 6, Red-winged Blackbird - 44, Common Grackle - 4, Ring-billed Gull - 39, Herring Gull - 2
Predictions: Uncertain; calm winds will not be conducive for raptors. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 04, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Sean Hopkins, Michaela Saparito
Weather: In the morning, there was a very strong WNW wind with 40 mph wind gusts and full cloud cover. The intense wind and cloud covered tapered off towards the end of the day, allowing more sunlight and calmer conditions.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 3:18, Unknown - 4:18, Ad - 4:28
Non-migratory/residents: Black Vulture - 2, Turkey Vulture - 13, Bald Eagle - 8, Red-tailed - 2
Non-raptor Observations: Hairy Woodpecker - 1, Pileated Woodpecker - 1, American Crow - 8, Common Raven - 12
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 5.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart, Erika Bowman
Observers: Bob Stewart, Ed Gowarty,Sr, Jim Rocco
Visitors: 2
Weather: Mostly cloudy in AM becoming mostly sunny after 12:00. Moderate wind out of the WNW. Temp 4 to 8 degrees C. Visibility 17 to 40 km. with haze.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 11:45:00 Total observation time: 2.75 hours
Official Counter: Ed Gowarty,Sr
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: AM weather - heavy overcast. Visibility 5 miles. Wind out of the SE at 20-30 mph.
Snow and rain began at 11:40 AM. Due to high winds with a winter storm forecast, the watch was terminated at 11:45 AM.
Raptor Observations: No migrating raptors.
2 non-migrating red-tailed hawks.
Non-raptor Observations: eastern bluebird, common loons, robins, raven.
Predictions: High velocity winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Date: 3/5/23 9:24 am From: David Barber <barber.droland...> Subject: Re: Tagged vulture Northampton County
This black vulture was tagged by the USDAs wildlife services in Hershey and
should be reported to the US Bird Banding Lab, www.reportband.gov.
David Barber
On Sun, Mar 5, 2023, 9:34 AM Arlene Koch <
<0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> A neighboring farmer has a group of 20+ black vultures feeding on a dead
> Holstein. One has a green wing tag with a number. Can anyone confirm that
> green tags are to be reported to the USDA banding lab? If not I’ll contact
> Hawk Mountain tomorrow.
>
> Sent from my iPhone
Observation start time: 10:30:00 Observation end time: 11:30:00 Total observation time: 1 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers:
Visitors: none
Weather: Cloudy and cold with a west wind.
Raptor Observations: Just a few TVs milling around taking their time going through. One local Red-tailed Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: American Robin 1, Ring-billed Gull 3, Herring Gull 6, gull species 16, Common Grackle 4, Rock Pigeon 4, American Crow 16, European Starling 2, Eastern Meadowlark 1
Predictions: East winds predicted with rain or snow in the afternoon, but warmer than today. A flight not likely.
Jerry McWilliamsErie, Erie County, <Pa.jerrymcw...>
Date: 3/5/23 6:45 am From: Franklin Haas <fhaasbirds...> Subject: Re: Tagged vulture Northampton County
Just a heads up.
When reporting wing tags to the Banding Lab, they need which wing it is on,
the color of the tag, the code on the tag, AND the color of the code on the
tag.
For instance: Left wing, Green Tag, Code M34, Code color: white.
Frank
On Sun, Mar 5, 2023 at 9:34 AM Arlene Koch <
<0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> A neighboring farmer has a group of 20+ black vultures feeding on a dead
> Holstein. One has a green wing tag with a number. Can anyone confirm that
> green tags are to be reported to the USDA banding lab? If not I’ll contact
> Hawk Mountain tomorrow.
>
> Sent from my iPhone
--
Frank Haas
Wisdom begins with putting the right name to a thing.
Date: 3/5/23 6:34 am From: Arlene Koch <0000012d74227426-dmarc-request...> Subject: Tagged vulture Northampton County
A neighboring farmer has a group of 20+ black vultures feeding on a dead Holstein. One has a green wing tag with a number. Can anyone confirm that green tags are to be reported to the USDA banding lab? If not I’ll contact Hawk Mountain tomorrow.
Date: 3/5/23 5:23 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (04 Mar 2023) 16 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 04, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (1): Just me in the wind <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 2-Bald Eagle, 1-Red-shouldered Hawk, 3-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (19) and Turkey Vultures (39). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-1; 2 yr.-1; 3 yr.-0; 4 yr.-0; adult-1 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> My Big Sit for March was today at Chambers Lake, coinciding with the Hawk Watch. The weather, as is typical for March, was unpredictable and not based in comfort. In fact, today, it looks impossible to set up my field office. The rain is stopping yet the wind will roar like a lion all day -25-40 mph. I won’t be able to keep my things from blowing away! I was forced to the van. At 8 am a Raven flew right by, this one, unusually silent. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Mute Swan, Wood Ducks, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, Ring-billed Gulls, Herring Gulls, Kingfisher, and Common Raven <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (1): Eastern Gray Squirrel. <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 1,146, Miles – 0.49, Floors – 2 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 40; this season: 54 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (3):” Raven, Cooper’s Hawk, and Herring Gull. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...>
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like the strong winds will continue. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/4/23 11:49 am From: Glenn Koppel <macatilly...> Subject: Osprey?
I just heard from someone on Facebook that Ospreys are back on the nest in Buzzard Swamp already! Anybody have any real reports on this? There is nothing in e-bird. I also do not know this person and do not know how well he knows his birds. Sounds more like a Bald Eagle is on the nest.
Glenn Koppel
Butler, PA
Date: 3/4/23 7:00 am From: Douglas Filler <0000012c09e09177-dmarc-request...> Subject: Silver Lake in Bucks CO.
The following were seen or heard on the first of the season morning bird walk for the Silver Lake Nature Center located in Bristol, PA.The walk is held every Saturday until the end of May, weather permitting. We meet at the Nature Center parking lot, all are welcome.
Silver Lake Park/Nature Center, Bucks, Pennsylvania, US
Mar 4, 2023 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
36 species
Canada Goose 65
Mute Swan 1
Wood Duck 7
Northern Shoveler 2
Gadwall 3
Mallard 5
Ring-necked Duck 6
Hooded Merganser 15
Common Merganser 2
Mourning Dove 4
Ring-billed Gull 10
Double-crested Cormorant 3
Great Blue Heron 1
Turkey Vulture 2
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Belted Kingfisher 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 3
Downy Woodpecker 5
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 1
Blue Jay 3
Carolina Chickadee 3
Tufted Titmouse 2
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Brown Creeper 2
Carolina Wren 5
European Starling 1
American Robin 6
House Finch 4
Dark-eyed Junco 5
White-throated Sparrow 12
Song Sparrow 3
Red-winged Blackbird 15
Rusty Blackbird 5
Common Grackle 2
Northern Cardinal 2
Date: 3/4/23 1:58 am From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (03 Mar 2023) Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 03, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Joe Meloney, Lee Meloney
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Joe Meloney, Lee Meloney <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen, but deemed not to be migrating: numerous Black (3) and Turkey Vultures (6). <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Another less than stellar day was in store at Chambers Lake. The weather was poor and getting worse with rain on the way. It was not a total washout and these days can produce the finest birding, though not in raptors. Precious little was on the move. Looking up was not totally fruitless, though, when at 2:30, a large flock of northbound Snow Geese flew over and within it was a diminutive Ross’s Goose [my FOY]. It has been several years since I have seen one of this species in Chester County. The rain picked up and I was done with this day. Not a single hawk was seen! [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Snow Geese, Ross’s Goose, Mute Swan, Wood Duck, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Green-winged Teal, Redhead, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, and Kingfisher. <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (0). Mammals (0). <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 1,486, Miles – 0.63, Floors – 3 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 27; this season: 51 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (2):” Green-winged Teal, Ross's Goose. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...> "Group Birding - The Economical, Fun and Environmentally Friendly Way to Bird!" and soon, our new birding website: http://www.earlybirdnaturetours.com/
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks like a bit of a washout for the morning with the storm ending, but strong winds continuing. It could be interesting for waterfowl. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/3/23 9:51 am From: Chad Kauffman <chadkauffman...> Subject: Columbia County Birding Spotlight
Hello everyone.
Columbia County Birding Spotlight on March 17-20, 2023
Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology (PSO) is promoting counties across the state to explore its hotspots and find as many birds as we can.
On March 17-20, join us as we lead a concentrated effort to bird Columbia County!We are joining forces with local birders, North Branch Bird Club and Seven Mountains Audubon.
As a group, we want to document as many birds as possible during this extended weekend. Birders are invited to tag along with trip leaders or explore the county’s game lands, lake, river, fields, etc. on their own terms.
We will also create an eBird Trip Report to document the four-day bird count.For anyone who is going to be birding during the 4-day birding spotlight, we ask you share your eBird checklists with the PSO Birding Data account then we can keep track easier.We will also be providing an eBird Trip Report link where pictures, checklists, etc will be available for everyone to enjoy.Here is the link to join that.https://ebird.org/pa/tripreport/111370
We will be sharing pics and updates on the Columbia County Birding Spotlight event Facebook page at https://fb.me/e/2t7RnV4zu
So far, we have bird walks/field trips lined up for the first 3 days, please check out the link on the spotlight event page for more info or reach out to any of the groups involved.
Birders of all skill levels are invited to join-in and contribute!If you just want to learn more about birds or you can help others and our challenge, we want you to be involved!
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Nancy Ott
Observers: Bob Stewart, Kevin Georg
Visitors: Bob Stewart and Kevin Georg
Weather: Steady SE winds partly cloudy to total cloud cover and stronger wind with sleet and rain by 12:15
Raptor Observations: 10:53 4th year bald eagle down in valley close to ridge flew north then south. 11:02 another immature bald eagle flew south close to front. 11:18 immature bald eagle south and 11:50 another immature bald all different. red taileds spotted south of hawkwatch not migrating.
Non-raptor Observations: chickadees,nuthatches,bluebirds,tufted titmouse, male cardinal. Deer in valley x4 and flock of turkey at least 27. Gulls approximately 100 and X4 canada geese
Predictions: Windy with rain in morning, partly cloudy in afternoon. high 46F . Winds WNW at 20-30 mph ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Date: 3/2/23 6:17 pm From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (02 Mar 2023) Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 02, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers:
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (7): Rick Robinson, Mike Niven, Elaine Kirk, Deb Kirchdoerfer, Bill Burkert, Angie Cote <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 2-Red-shouldered Hawk, 2-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (1) and Turkey Vultures (18).
<BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> A field brew fill-up and I was off to Chambers Lake, where I set up my office on the platform. Shortly after starting the watch, a group of Red-breasted Mergansers, 15 of them – all males – dropped in and formed a tight pod [see picture]. I put the word out on my EBNT Hotline and a couple people were able to get here before the birds took off, heading north. This was a horrible migrating day with strong winds from the wrong direction, low ceiling for much of the day, and no thermals with the cloud cover. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Wood Ducks, Mute Swan, American Wigeon, Black Ducks, Redhead, Ring-necked Ducks, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Red-breasted Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, Killdeer, Kingfishers, and Eastern Meadowlarks <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (1): Spring Peeper. Mammals (0). <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 4,298, Miles – 1.83, Floors – 3 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 42; this season: 49 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (13):” Killdeer, Red-breasted Merganser, Eastern Meadowlark, Lesser Scaup, American Wigeon, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Carolina Chickadee, American Robin, Northern Mockingbird, House Finch, Common Grackle, and Hooded Merganser. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...> "Group Birding - The Economical, Fun and Environmentally Friendly Way to Bird!" and soon, our new birding website: http://www.earlybirdnaturetours.com/
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks another rough one with rain on the way. We might squeeze in a morning. <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Date: 3/2/23 6:02 pm From: Hawkcount.Org Reports <reports...> Subject: Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake (01 Mar 2023) 5 Raptors
Chester County Hawk Watch & Migration Count at Chambers Lake Wagontown, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 01, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Larry Lewis (Early Bird Nature Tours)
Observers: Dennis Reeves, Rick Robinson
Visitors: CHESTER COUNTY HAWK WATCH & MIGRATION COUNT AT CHAMBERS LAKE <BR><BR> Visitors (3): Dennis Reeve and Rick Robinson <BR><BR> Thanks everyone, for coming to beautiful Chambers Lake! <BR><BR>
Raptor Observations: ----“Raptors” seen but deemed not to be migrating: 1-Bald Eagle, 2-Red-shouldered Hawk, 4-Red-tailed Hawk, and numerous Black (7) and Turkey Vultures (30). <BR><BR> ----Bald Eagle ages: 1 yr.-2; 2 yr.-_; 3 yr.-_; 4 yr.-_; adult-1 <BR><BR>
Non-raptor Observations: TODAY’S Bird Blog: [PLEASE NOTE: I send out a large weekly “blog/newsletter” detailing much more than these small daily recaps. This newsletter from EBNT, has our upcoming schedule and the County year bird list, etc. If you aren’t receiving it and would like to, kindly email me <earlybirdtours...> to be added. <BR><BR> Today is the start of the Spring Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count. This is always fun. I began the day at Turkey Hill, loading up on field brew. At 10:45, a 1st year Bald Eagle became my first raptor migrant as it streamed by heading northeast. There was steady movement of gulls heading north, each in turn stopping to rest and bathe with a group on the lake. They took off singly thru the day to continue onward. Much waterfowl remained on the lake, with movement noted in and out. [Additional highlights listed below] <BR><BR> ---- Thanks to Frank Haas and his gracious generosity and support in his name and in the memory of his wife, Barbara. <BR><BR> ----ADDITIONAL BIRD HIGHLIGHTS: <BR><BR> Snow Geese, Mute Swan, Wood Ducks, Black Ducks, Redheads, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Mergansers, Ruddy Ducks, Pied-billed Grebe, Ring-billed Gulls, and Kingfishers. <BR><BR> ----OTHER WILDLIFE NOTED: Butterflies (0). Dragonflies (0). Reptiles & Amphibians (1): Spring Peeper. Mammals (0). <BR><BR> ----EBNT’s “Walk with Nature” ™ Program Daily Tally with our Fitbits: This is a stationary watch, but if I stay stationary too long, I might tend to “bulk up.” Besides, I am ever so fortunate to be walking unaided, at all! Therefore, I keep moving (if you’ve been here, then you know that I pace endlessly….) - my Fitbit thanks me and its part of my “Walk with Nature” program. So, below are MY results at the watch for the day. Your totals could all be zero, if you choose to sit and relax. You are certainly welcome to take it easy….I simply choose not to, affording me a panoramic view of our entire sky and a bit of exercise. So come join our “Walk with Nature!” ™ Anyway, just for fun, here are my numbers at the site for today (join me, if you wish): Steps – 5,869, Miles – 2.5, Floors – 6 <BR><BR> ----“SEASON’S BIRD SPECIES LIST” – we are not just a Hawk Watch, but conduct a migration tally from the site. The complete species list will be in our weekly email blog sent to those requesting it. Our tally board, on site, will feature an approximation (very rough, best “guestimate,” – searching for Hawks must remain our primary focus) for totals of each species seen for “The Watch” year. The overall list for the season from the watch will be part of the large weekly “blog,” if you’ve signed up for that at <earlybirdtours...> <BR><BR> TOTAL SPECIES – Identified from watch site: today: 36; this season: 36 <BR><BR> NEW SPECIES ADDED TODAY TO THIS YEAR’S “WATCH SPECIES LIST (36):” all of them - it was the first day. <BR><BR> Contact: Larry Lewis ------- Early Bird Nature Tours(EBNT)---"Exciting & Fun Adventures in Nature"---63 S. Park Ave., Coatesville, PA 19320---484-340-SORA (7672)--Business Cell---email: <earlybirdtours...> "Group Birding - The Economical, Fun and Environmentally Friendly Way to Bird!" and soon, our new birding website: http://www.earlybirdnaturetours.com/
Predictions: Tomorrow’s flight looks poor with strong winds from NW <BR><BR> . The Chester County Hawk Watch and Migration Count is sponsored, in large part, by Frank Haas and in the memory of Barbara Haas. Membership in EBNT is requested. Please contact us at <earlybirdtours...> with questions or comments.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Larry Lewis (<earlybirdtours...>)
Site Description: The platform just left of the only boat ramp for Chambers Lake in the main parking lot, overlooking the lake to the north.
Directions to site: We set up in the main parking lot for the lake, on the platform just left of the only boat ramp. The Hawk Watch at Chambers Lake (as part of the Chester County Hawk Watch) operates daily, March 1 thru April 30 from 9am - 3 pm (unless counter is away leading a tour elsewhere). In fall the season is Sept. 1 thru Nov. 30,each day 9am-3pm. Please contact Larry at 484-340-7672 to confirm counter is present. This count welcomes all visitors to this fine habitat. When there are no hawks present, many birds still are. The lake holds numerous waterfowl species and the variable shoreline can produce incredible shorebirds.
Directions to hawk watch: From the Rt. 30 By-pass take the Rt. 82 exit north. Turn left at the first light(Rt. 340) and go 1.3 miles to Wagontown Rd. Turn Rt. on Wagontown Rd. and continue on this winding road for 1.8 miles (you will pass the Hibernia Park entrance on your right, the Chambers Lake parking lot, and Chambers Lake on your right). Pull off the road to the left and park safely at the end of the lake to visit the hawk watch. You will see us sitting on the dike near the road at the end of the lake.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 02, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Joe Sabo, Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Joe Sabo, Kathy and Dave Bechdel, Ken Bowman
Weather: Warm all day. WNW Wind began strong, stayed steady for most of the day, and tapered off towards the end of the day. Sun was strongest at the beginning and end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Golden Eagles: Ad - 9:19, Ad - 9:36, Ad - 9:38, Ad- 9:45, Ad - 10:06, Ad - 12:10, Ad - 12:11, Ad - 12:36, Ad - 2:26
Non-migratory/residents: 1, Black Vulture - 3, Turkey Vulture - 9 (conservative est.), Red-tailed Hawk - 2, Bald Eagle - 3
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose - 1, Mourning Dove - 1, Killdeer - 1, Hairy Woodpecker - 1, American Crow - 12 (est.), Common Raven - 11 (est.), Tufted Titmouse - 1, European Starling - 13, Dark-eyed Junco - 1, Red-winged Blackbird - 6, Common Grackle - 1, passerine - 2
Predictions: Storm expected to arrive around noon tomorrow. It is possible there will be a few migrants moving ahead of the storm front. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Dave Poder
Observers: Jim Rocco
Visitors: None
Weather: Cloudy, visibility 20km, some valley haze, moderate to strong NW winds, High temp 7.7C
Raptor Observations: GE sub @ 10:47 and GE ad @ 12:53
Non-raptor Observations: BC Chickadees, WB nuthatches, Tufted Titmice, N cardinals, Robins, Crows, Ravens
Predictions: Snow, sleet, freezing rain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Dave Poder (<avions...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers: Greg Gdula, Jim Rocco, Joe Sabo, Sandy Cline, Shannon Thompson, Tom & Janet Kuehl
Visitors: 7- Greg Gdula, Jim Rocco, Sandy Cline, Joe Sabo, Tom and Janet Kuehl, Shannon Thompson. Everyone contributed to the count.
Weather: 100% Cloud cover until 11 AM, then decreasing all the way to 3% per late afternoon. Haze, visibility 17 km. Wind out of the South all day. AM velocity 20 mph with gusts to 30 mph. Afternoon velocity decreased to 15 mph.
Raptor Observations: 52 migrating raptors. 18 Golden Eagles: 10:31 Ad.; 10:46 (3) unaged; 1:58 Ad.; 2:37 Ad.; 2:52 Ad.; 2:53 Ad.; 2:55 Ad.; 3:00 Ad.; 3:10 Juv.; 3:12 Ad.; 3:17 Ad.; 3:30 Ad.; 3:30 Ad;, 4:22 Ad;.; 4:33 Ad.; 5:12 Ad. 4 Bald Eagles: 12;48 Ad.;1:21 Ad.; 1:35 White Belly; 4:44 immature. Almost all the eagles were under 100 feet and close to the escarpment.
Bald Eagles observed flying south (not counted) 2:20 Ad; 3:55 unaged; 4:59 Ad.
Non-raptor Observations: junco, black capped chicadee, raven, bluebirds, crows. 1 porcupine on upper portion of escarpment.
Predictions: Possible AM showers. Partly cloudy. High of 51 degrees F. Wind out of the WNW at 16t-25 mph. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Mar 01, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Dan Hannon, George Young, Joe Verica, Ken Bowman, Nick Bolgiano, Peggy Wagoner, Susan Smith
Visitors: George Young, Kathy and Dave Bechdel, Ken Bowman, Susan Smith, Joe Verica, Peggy Wagoner, Dan Hannon
Weather: In the morning, there was full cloud cover and SSE winds. Later in the afternoon, the clouds dissipated and allowed full sunlight and warmer temperatures. A strong S wind was steady all day.
Raptor Observations: 12 Golden Eagles: Ad - 10:43, Sub - 10:48, J - 1:51, Ad - 2:10, Ad - 2:28, Ad - 3:20, Ad - 3:47, Unknown - 4:01, Ad - 4:30, Ad - 4:45, Ad - 4:46
Non-raptor Observations: Non-migratory: Canada Goose - 456, Black Vulture - 1, Turkey Vulture - 13, Bald Eagle - 7, Pileated Woodpecker - 1, American Crow - 23, Common Raven 16, European Starling - 1, American Robin - 1, House Finch - 2, Dark-eyed Junco - 2, Red-winged Blackbird - 9, Common Grackle - 9, Ring-billed Gull - 1, Herring Gull - 1, Common Merganser - 1
Predictions: Uncertain; not ideal conditions for migrants ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 13:15:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Jerry McWilliams
Observers:
Visitors: Bernie O'Connor, Pat Howell, and Bob Grubbs stopped for a short visit.
Weather: Mostly cloudy and cold early then clearing with a temporary wind shift out of the SE then gradually switching to the WNW.
Raptor Observations: A surprising number of vultures for the official opening of the hawk watch as well as a decent number of Red-tails. The flight was going well until around 1300 hrs. when the wind shifted around to the WNW shutting off the lakeshore movement.
Non-raptor Observations: Canada Goose 32, Rock Pigeon 4, Killdeer 12, Ring-billed Gull 3, Herring Gull 6, gull species 55, American Crow 11, European Starling 710, American Robin 29, House Finch 6, Red-winged Blackbird 313, Common Grackle 282, blackbird species 962
Predictions: Much colder with overcast sky. I doubt anything will happen.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Feb 28, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers:
Visitors: None
Weather: There was little visibility for the first 2 hours and it drizzled sporadically throughout the morning. In the afternoon, the skies began to clear and the wind became stronger.
Raptor Observations: 4 Golden Eagles: Ad - 11:20, Ad - 11:21, Ad - 2:47, Ad - 4:49 Resident/Local Raptors: 1 Sharp-shinned Hawk, 3 Bald Eagles, 7 Turkey Vultures, 2 Red-tailed Hawks
Non-raptor Observations: Black-capped Chickadee - 2, Red-winged Blackbird - 1, Common Grackle - 1, American Crow - 7, Common Raven - 5, Pileated Woodpecker - 1, duck sp. - 5
Predictions: S winds seem favorable for a movement of raptors ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 2/27/23 3:50 pm From: Marianne Atkinson <marianne5...> Subject: Great Horned Owl - Clearfield County
On Sunday, Feb. 26, while lying in bed 6:05 A.M., I got a HUGE smile on my face by hearing a Great Horned Owl, which wasn't very loud. It hooted for about two minutes and then got louder and closer to my house and hooted for another two minutes.
I haven't heard any owls on my property for several years. 30 years ago, when we first moved onto our 100 acre property, I heard mostly Great Horned owls frequently, especially while in bed.
Sadly, I haven't gotten an owl for the DuBois Christmas Bird count for several years at my house. I stand outside to listen first. Then I pull my car outside the garage and put the windows down. If I don't hear anything, I play the owl protocol from a flash drive through my speakers for Screech, Barred and Great Horned owls. I have had all three of those on my property over the years.
Is the lack of owls on my property in recent years due to species decline or some other factors? There have been no widespread housing developments built in the surrounding fields. Just an odd new house has been built here and there in my area.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Feb 27, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Andrew Bechdel
Observers: Jon Kauffman, Nick Bolgiano
Visitors: Jon Kauffman
Weather: The day began with mild temperatures, a calm ESE wind, and nearly full sun. Later in the morning, high clouds began to create overcast conditions and the temperature dropped precipitously around noon. We decided to leave the site due to the impending storm that could be seen to the southwest.
Raptor Observations: No Golden Eagles observed. Migrants included a Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, and 3 Red Shouldered Hawks
Predictions: Uncertain ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Date: 2/27/23 7:58 am From: Grove, Deborah Shuey <dsg4...> Subject: Seminar with Dr. Amanda Rodewald
Dr. Amanda Rodewald will be the seminar speaker for the 2023 Penn State Arboretum Avian Education Program Seminar series on March 16, 5:00 pm in 112 Forest Resources Building. For those wishing to view the talk on zoom, please register at http://bit.ly/3Y3hI7z Amanda received her PhD in Ecology at Penn State in 2000. Her talk is titled Strategic conservation in an uncertain world: it takes a village. Conserving biodiversity within working landscapes where benefits accrue to both people and the environment is possible through innovative and strategic approaches and partnerships. Amanda will discuss a number of examples of her interdisciplinary research and partnerships. Shade grown coffee is one example where the trees provide habitat to birds and the environment, the birds provide benefits to the plants, and the people gain economic benefits through sustainably grown coffee. Interdisciplinary approaches to research and conservation are the key to success.
Dr. Amanda Rodewald is the Garvin Professor and Senior Director of the Center for Avian Population Studies at Cornell University. Dr. Rodewalds contributions to our understanding of avian population and community responses to changes in land use, climate, and invasive species have been vast. Her broad interdisciplinary approach integrates population, community, and landscape ecology with conservation biology and sustainability science, to address pressing conservation challenges, particularly for forest birds, in both temperate and tropical landscapes. Amanda aligns her research and outreach efforts in ways that support policy and management, and she regularly collaborates with and/or advises partners in government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.
Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch State College, Pennsylvania, USA Daily Raptor Counts: Feb 26, 2023 -------------------------------------------------------------------
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 6.67 hours
Official Counter: Nick Bolgiano
Observers: Andrew Bechdel, Dan Ombalski, Joe Gyekis, Ken Bowman
Visitors: Joe Gyekis, Susan Smith, Ken Bowman, Dan Ombalski
Weather: The morning started off mild with a light W wind. As the day progressed, the wind became stronger from the W/WNW with gusts up to 20-25mph. The cloud cover dissipated, allowing full sun and a pleasantly warm afternoon.
Raptor Observations: No Golden Eagles were observed. The W winds and early date did not make conditions conducive for their migration. Resident raptors included adult and immature Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and Turkey Vultures.
Predictions: Uncertain; winter weather may push raptors ahead of the front. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Andrew Bechdel () Tussey Mountain Hawk Watch information may be found at: tusseymountainspringhawkwatch.org/
Observation start time: 10:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Bob Stewart
Observers: Greg Gdula
Visitors: 3 including Greg Gdula who helped spot.
Weather: Partly cloudy first hour then mostly sunny. Warm- Temp 3 to 6 degrees C. Strong wind from the WMW. Aver velocity 18 mph with gusts to 32 mph. Haze- visibility 27 km.
Raptor Observations: Six local turkey vultures. No migrants of any species.
Predictions: Rain. Up to 3/4 inch. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Robert Stewart (<bob...>)
Date: 2/26/23 9:30 am From: drudy2 <00000019240c0ca1-dmarc-request...> Subject: Ravens grooming, Dauphin County
I was lucky enough to spot 2 Ravens sitting side by side, on a high branch in a dead tree, while filling my feeders this morning. One was grooming the other as I watched with binos. Ran in to get the camera but they fleqw. Have had one raven occasionally labdibg abd "gronking" from the dead ash trees for past 2 years. First time to see a mated pair. Sure hoping to see their arial ballet next.Sent from Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
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