The raptor count at Mackinac Straits picked up for the final week of March. The total number of raptors observed was 633. Days ranged from bright and sunny, to overcast and wet. Cloud cover and poor conditions slowed migration at times, but during breaks in the weather the raptors came out to make the journey over the Straits.
Flights were rather slow some days (3/24 and 3/27) and moderate the rest of the week. The most sighted birds during week 4 were Turkey Vultures at 216 making up 34% of the count and Red-tailed Hawks at 336 making up 53% of the count. March 28 saw the largest Turkey Vulture movement of the spring 2024 raptor watch thus far with 36 Turkey Vultures counted crossing the Straits. The first dark morph Red-tailed Hawk of the season was also seen on 3/29, along with a bird which may have been a Harlan’s type Red-tail.
Eagle numbers dropped off during week 3 and have further reduced for week 4. Golden Eagles were counted 30 times in week 3 and only 6 in week 4. The Goldens may be largely finished with their migration at this time. Bald Eagle numbers were 40 then 30 in weeks 3 and 4 respectively.
Calvin noted this week that the first Common Loon of the season was sighted, along with Trumpeter and Tundra Swans, and Sandhill Cranes.
Although warmer weather is expected for the beginning of April, we are also looking at snow and rain, which may show fewer birds migrating and some short days at the Raptor Watch. We hope to see spring make a full comeback shortly, and see some good numbers of raptors with it!
