Today, April 16th, 2009, was a nice surprise for both birds and weather at the hawkwatch. The forecast was for strong north winds and chilly temperatures, following 2 days of rain. Though the wind was strong, the temperature warmed quickly and an impressive 9 species of hawks and vultures decided to move across the river anyway! Bill Williams and I found 1 Black Vulture, 19 Turkey Vultures, 13 Ospreys, 4 Bald Eagles, 2 Northern Harriers, 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 1 Cooper's Hawk, 1 Red-tailed Hawk and 4 American Kestrels for a decent total of 47. Another 10-20 Bald Eagles circled and fished and didn't apear to move north today.
Brian Taber
Welcome to the Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory blog for postings of programs, activities and photos of unusual birds and butterflies around Virginia. To LEARN more about our nonprofit work, SUBSCRIBE to our monthly newsletter, and SUPPORT us, visit our website at www.vawildliferesearch.org. "Protecting Wildlife through Field Research, Education and Habitat Conservation for Over 25 Years"
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Sharp-shinned Hawk, by Steve Thornhill
