Another day of easterly winds provided a frustrating day of counting. Kettles of raptors went back and forth from over our heads to the shore and back again. It is difficult to keep track of new birds when already-counted birds drift back south constantly. Regardless, there was a nice amount of raptors to look at all day, often right over our heads. The weather was also quite pleasant.
In addition, it was the best Sandhill Crane movement that I’ve had this season, with 247 birds. Flocks were still moving through after the raptor movement had died down and I stopped the count.
Highlights: at least 8 Northern Red-tailed Hawks and 6 Broad-winged Hawks.
Turkey Vulture – 38
Bald Eagle – 4
Northern Harrier – 3
Sharp-shinned Hawk – 13
Red-shouldered Hawk – 1
Broad-winged Hawk – 6
Red-tailed Hawk – 68
Rough-legged Hawk – 3
American Kestrel – 1
Sandhill Crane – 247
Common Loon – 1
