FreeLists / bristol-birds / [Bristol-Birds] Mendota Hawk Watch Report

[RonEHarrin@xxxxxxx]

We had another relatively slow day at the Mendota fire tower, but a "bad day 
hawk watching is better than a good day at work." We had observers at the site 
from 9:15 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Observers, in addition to yours truly, 
included Tom Parker, Greeneville, TN, and Ted Dingler, Marion, VA. There was a 
steady, cool wind blowing out of the S/SE most of the day and most birds were 
on the 
southeast side of the mountain, riding the breeze. The haze limited 
visibility to less than five miles in the morning, and then cleared out as the 
skies 
became overcast with threat of rain. The highlight of the day was an immature 
Northern Harrier (a.k.a. Marsh Hawk). Most of the birds were seen between 10:45 
and 12:00 noon. It was very slow the rest of the day. We should have some nice 
flying weather once this cold front moves out. Come on up and join in the 
fun. Catch the Fever!      

                                             9/9          9/10        9/11    
9/12           YTD

Broad-winged hawk:          25            98           41       65            
 229
Osprey:                               2              0             0          
1               3
Cooper's Hawk:                    0             0             2         0     
          2
Northern Harrier                   0             0             0          1   
           1
Sharp-shinned Hawk            0             0             0          2        
      2

The Mendota Hawk watch is sponsored by the Bristol Bird Club. The site is 
located atop Clinch Mountain, three miles north of Mendota, VA. This is on the 
Washington/Russell County line. Elevation: 3020 feet. If you want directions 
let 
me know. 

Ron Harrington
Compiler/Coordinator