No two years are the same in Duluth at the hawk watch. Last March, and what seemed like all spring we were delivered day after day of easterly winds pushing birds away from Duluth and making it harsh counting conditions and lower numbers then we would like.
This March, the opposite appears to be the case. Despite a cold start to the month and a slow two weeks the winds have been very much in our favor and the numbers reflect that.
Only 3 days was the count conducted at Thompson Hill, surprising even to the well-seasoned and founder of the spring count Frank Nicoletti!!
The later half of March proved to be an extraordinary experience not only for the counters, but the hoards of visitors we have had the fortune of seeing here. Thanks to you all and hope to see you in April!
As you have seen in our recent postings on Facebook it’s the BALD EAGLES that have stolen the show posting some big numbers.
The highest 1-day total between March 1st-15th, 42, with 225 total individuals. The rest of the month we had 4,657 with the 21st producing a new North American 1-day record of 1,076!!!
No less impressive, we have a new season total already for GOLDEN EAGLES, 186 already!!
As the majority of the northern population of breeding Bald Eagles as now north of us we are starting to transition to the RED-TAILED HAWKS and other raptors; in addition to, a good chunk of the waterfowl, sparrows, blackbirds and other non-raptors.
We have not seen too much for non-raptors so far, but we have seen our first KILLDEER, GREAT BLUE HERON, SANDHILL CRANE, and a smattering of early AMERICAN ROBINS, COMMON GRACKLES and waterfowl.
April is and exciting time as bird life and warmer temps (usually!) make it a great time to come visit the count. Of course we will be counting everyday and will be at Enger Tower on West Skyline Parkway, otherwise we will post on FB if we are at Thompson Hill if winds swing easterly.
Don’t forget to sign-up for our events this April which you can find at hawkridge.org, we will have field-trips, a presentation on Peregrine Falcons by Carrol Henderson and much more.
Eyes to the skies everyone, and hope to see you at the count!!
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