The 16th consecutive late winter/spring hawkwatch at College Creek began today. It's the only regular hawkwatch in VA during this season. It was very hazy today, as the photo shows, unusual for this time of year, but southwest winds and temperatures in the 40s made for a pleasant start. Two birds were tallied coming across the 1 1/2 mile wide James River, a Turkey Vulture and a Red-tailed Hawk. The Red-tailed pictured above was not seen migrating, but welcomed me to the site, atop the only cedar tree there.
The hawkwatch operates daily, weather and schedules permitting, with several volunteers through May. It is generally a morning event, from about 9-1, as birds use the warming air to cross the river. Many other migrants are seen, including swallows, waterfowl and shorebirds. Visitors are always welcome, contact me for other details as needed. It's located on the Colonial Parkway, about 3 miles south of Williamsburg. Information will be regularly posted here, on the VA List Serve and on our Facebook page.
Brian Taber
