Hi Folks:
Today, September 13, was almost a duplication of yesterday: bright, clear
skies and warm temperatures left only a small window of opportunity for
observation without getting a "crick" in your neck and eye strain. I worked
solo
today. While I enjoyed a day of solitude, I needed some extra "hawk eyed" folks
to
help out.
The first Broad-winged hawks starting arriving around 11:00, and by 12:30,
they were flying so high and far out in the valley on the eastern side, that I
could hardly see them with binoculars. I counted 250 in one hour, then they
"disappeared." I picked up 7 more between 12:30 and 4:45, at which time I had
to
leave. There were numerous Chimney Swifts flying all around, and I saw at
least 6 Monarchs. Two local Ravens were putting on their usual aerial show. And
of
course the Turkey and Black Vultures were doing their thing, showing off
their amazing flying skills.
Species:
9/13
Year-to-date
Northern Harrier: - 1
Broad-winged Hawk: 257 632
Coopers Hawk: - 5
Am Bald Eagle: - 2
Osprey: 1 3
Am. Kestrel: - 1
Other: Red-headed WP - 2
The Mendota Lookout is located atop Clinch Mountain, on the
Russell-Washington County line, near Mendota, VA. If you want directions, let
me know.
Ron Harrington
Bristol, VA