Swainson's Hawks Over Borrego Valley 2009
Hawkwatch Totals 2009
Hello Hawkwatchers:
Below are two charts from Hawkcount.org. for Borrego Valley Hawkwatch, illustrating the data for this year and a comparison for all years. You can access all this information plus all of our reports dating back to 2003 at Hawkcount.org. Most hawkwatches across North America have years of data housed at Hawk Migration Association of North America.
2009 was definitely a low year for both Swainson's Hawks and Turkey Vultures (2004 had less TV's). 2003 was a partial year for observations. We are going to review weather data from the past few years to determine if there is a connection between weather and numbers. We will also check food resources to see if that was an influence. However, this year food was available and numbers of Swainson's Hawks were significantly down. Any number of factors may have contributed to the low Swainson's numbers. A full report will be available through Hawk Migration Association of North America in the future.
A special thanks to Kathy Jorgensen for taking our daily data and transmitting it to HMANA. Thanks to LeRoy Dormen and Mari Thygefen for their continued assistance at the hawkwatch.
The Hawkwatch is supported by the Anza-Borrego Institute (the educational and research wing of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park). Thanks to Sally Theriault and her staff for their assistance throughout the season. Thanks to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for providing leadership assistance (Both Bob Theriault and Steve Bier are leaders as part of their job with the park). Thanks to Ocotillo Wells District of the state park for providing leadership assistance (Joe Hopkins).
The morning watch site is located on Roadrunner Tree Farm property. We are grateful for the support of Mike Spieckerman (manager) of the Roadrunner Tree Farm.
Thanks to Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association for including the daily notes in their website.
Join us in February 2010.
Hal Cohen
A Comparison of all years-2003 (partial year) through 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch, best migration period
Directions and Timing | February 2009 | Books
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 15 April 2009
Migration Today:
Turkey Vultures-12
Discussion: No Swainson's Hawks on our last official day of the season. You can see why we had problems this year. Just look at this picture of me looking for a hawk:
Hawkmeister Hal Cohen Desperately seeking ...
This is the last e-mail for the season. I will send totals out in a few weeks. Migration doesn't suddenly come to a halt on April 15. We have determined that after this date the number of migrating raptors slows down tremendously. Our effort doesn't match the return in numbers of raptors. It will be very warm soon, however today it was only in the 60's. The heat can be oppressive at the hawkwatch.
The Borrego Valley Hawkwatch could not function without the volunteers dedicated to watching each season. The leaders for 2009 included: Saturday-Paul Jorgensen; Sunday-Herb Stone; Monday-Hal Cohen; Tuesday-Steve Bier; Wednesday-Joe Hopkins; Thursday-Bob Theriault; Friday-Grace Clark and Suzanne Schmidt. Laura Webb could be counted upon almost every day to assist and take over leadership when needed. Karin Vickers was a regular assistant on Thursdays. Paulette Ache was a wonderful help at the evening watch along with Jackie Williams. Judy Davis spent March helping us. Several other volunteers spent hours watching with us on a daily basis. Thanks to everyone.
If you would like to access the notes from every day since February 18, with pictures, see below or go to two different web sites:
http://theabf.org/2009_daily_hawkwatch_reports
http://www.california-desert.org/pages/08wildlife/reports/cohen.htm
See you next February and keep those eyes to the sky.
Hal Cohen
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 14 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-1
Turkey Vultures-42
Discussion: Turkey Vultures began to lift-off from several locations at 8:15A. The lone Swainson's Hawk came exited the valley very high.
Turkey Vulture, Upstroke, 14 April 2009
Below is the same TV demonstrating a very pronounced flapping stroke. This handsome bird came very close to the morning watch.
Turkey Vulture, Downstroke, 14 April 2009
Evening Watch: Very windy conditions this evening. Twelve Turkey Vultures came into the valley. This evening is the final official watch of the season.
Prediction: Winds will continue through the night and into Wednesday. Expectations are for a very early lift-off.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 13 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-4
Turkey Vultures-12
Discussion: Two SW's were found in the potato fields and migrated northwest along Coyote Mt. Two additional Swainson's Hawks flew close to the morning watch and migrated. The TV's lifted-up from Ellis Farms and migrated west and out of the valley.
Below is the most exciting event of the day. I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but it is part of the natural web of life. From the morning site we watched as a Coyote emerged from the tree line and chased this unfortunate Jack Rabbit into the grape graveyard and finally caught it. As if to show us the prize, the Coyote marched in front of us and returned to the tree line to bury its prey.
Coyote with Jack Rabbit at the morning watch 4/13/09
Here is an interesting photo of a light morph Swainson's Hawk moving away from the watch. A shot from almost eye level today.
Light Morph Swainson's Hawk leaving the watch site 4/13/09
In two days, (April 15) we will officially finish the official count for the season. We will prepare final numbers for the season and send a message in a few weeks.
Evening Watch: This evening a few Swainson's came in to roost. Two SW's are roosting in the Ellis Farms area and 1 is roosting in the date farm. Twenty-seven Turkey Vultures came in to roost in the date farm as well.
Prediction: Hopefully the high winds expected tomorrow will hold off until the hawks and TV's migrate. Winds with gusts to 50-mph are expected tomorrow through the day and into the night. If windy early, the raptors will be up and out by 7-7:30A.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 12 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-18
Turkey Vultures-11
Discussion: A very light wind day. The SW's that roosted near Ellis Farms were actually found this morning in the potato fields east of Ellis. At 8A some were in flight east when I arrived at the potato fields. Several Swainson's kettled up and flew north toward the base of Coyote Mt where they aerial fed before streaming northwest through Coyote Canyon. The Turkey Vultures moved out during the 8-9A period
Below is a close photo of a light intermediate Swainson's Hawk shot today.
Light Intermediate Swainson's Hawk 4/12/09
Evening Watch: Eleven Turkey Vultures came in and roosted at Ellis Farms. At 7:30P 2 TV's were spotted very high. They spent 15 minutes in what appeared to be a courtship flight which included tail-chasing. No Swainson's Hawks were spotted this evening.
Prediction: Apparently no SW's came in to roost tonight. Hopefully we will be surprised by some tomorrow. Light winds tomorrow are predicted so take-off of the TV's should be between 8 and 9A.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 11 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-30
Turkey Vultures-25
Discussion: Several Swainson's were found sitting on the ground in the potato fields early today. Only 8 SW's were counted leaving the valley from the morning site. The remainder (22) moved north from the potato fields. The TV's came in two groups from the south. The probable roosting site of the TV's was near Borrego Springs Country Club. It appears that the season, although low in numbers continues to produce some migrants.
Evening Watch: At 7:15P we watched a group of Swainson's Hawks fly into the Ellis Farms area. Below is a photo of 8 SW's as they into descended into Ellis. It was difficult to get an accurate count as birds from the tamarisks lifted up as others landed. We estimate at least 19 birds were observed-18 at Ellis Farms and 1 at the date farm. Twelve TV's came into the date farm as well.
Swainson's Hawks come in to roost 4/11/09
Prediction: Tomorrow winds should be light so perhaps
we will see a nice lift-off. If the SW's move to the potato fields again
they might migrate north. A good place to observe lift-off will be at the
morning site or on Henderson Canyon Rd and a little east of Borrego Valley
Rd. You might want to check in at the morning site on DiGiorgio first. If
the winds remain light, lift-off will probably take place between 8:30-9:30A.
We are in a warming trend. By Monday it should be in the upper 80's.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 10 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-11
Turkey Vultures-18
Discussion: Lift-off at 8:30A from the fields east of the date farm. I spent some time at the evening site watching SW's on the ground. After lift-off, they began to aerial feed from near ground level to at least a 1,000 feet high. For over an hour most of the SW's fed before departing the valley.
Below is a photo taken by Joan Avise last year. A beautiful Swainson's close up.
Swainson's Hawk, dark morph (Borrego Springs, 3-23-08) Photo by Joan Avise
Evening Watch: This evening an estimate of 20 Swainson's Hawks and 5 TV's were observed dropping into the vicinity of Ellis Farm. Additionally thousand of swallows, mostly Cliff and Barn, swirling in huge kettles were seen along with Vaux's Swifts.
Prediction: With windy conditions predicted, look for an early morning migration. The number of swallows migrating should provide an?additional?spectacle. Ellis Farm is located near Henderson Canyon Rd and Borrego Valley Rd.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 9 April 2009
Migration Today:
Turkey Vultures-5
Discussion: Not too much to report. The TV's lifted-off at 8:15A. The TV's expected from Ocotillo Wells area (21) didn't appear.
Below is the moon rise at 7:45P as we were leaving the evening watch.
Evening Watch: A few Swainson's Hawks came in to the date farm before 7P along with 19 TV's. At least 12 Swainson's dropped into the date farm at 7:20P along with 1 TV. The totals were at least 12 SW's and 20 TV's.
Prediction: Winds hopefully will be light early but will increase during the day. Rain is possible Friday evening into Saturday. If it is not windy early, a nice lift-off from the date farm is possible. For best views come to the evening site on Borrego Valley Rd.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 8 April 2009
Migration Today:
Turkey Vultures-21
Discussion: On a very windy cloudy day, only 21 TV's migrated past the watch.
Below is a photo of the southern view from the morning site of the Table Grape Graveyard. Below this picture is one taken of a Grape Vineyard in Borrego Springs in 1950. Often folks ask about the crosses near the hawkwatch. The wood is redwood and has lasted since the late 1940's. The white structures are part of the irrigation system of the 40's.
Table Grape Graveyard Borrego Springs Today
Table Grapes Borrego Springs 1950
Evening Watch: Only 3 TV's came in to roost however about 10 south of the watch at least 20 TV's were observed.
Prediction: Continued windy conditions tomorrow and cooler weather for Friday. Hopefully by the weekend we will see some Swainson's Hawks. A Swainson's Hawk Festival will take place in Sacramento California this Saturday April 11 at 9A. It will take place at Sutters Landing. Check out the web site Swainson'shawk.org for more information.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 7 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-28
Turkey Vultures-5
Discussion: Today was one of those days when 28 SW's were more fun than hundreds. The Swainson's came up shortly after 9A from the date farm. I spent an hour with new watchers at the night site across the road from the date farm. We watched as several SW's began to kettle up. They were joined by at least 8 Swainson's that roosted at Ellis Farms. Some of the SW's began to aerial feed. We could not determine what they were feeding on. There have not been swarms of flying ants lately. There are a few species of flying beetles and dragonflies in the area. Five TV's began to kettle up from Roadrunner Mobile Park. The Swainson's joined the TV's and then began to stream to the northwest. I drove into Indian Head Ranch and observed several Swainson's Hawks aerial feeding to the north. There were a dozen SW's aerial feeding as they flew through Coyote Canyon. I believe that the next staging area to the north is an easy 5-6 hour flight as these hawks were in no hurry to leave the valley.
Below is a shot of the date farm Eucalyptus trees with roosting Swainson's Hawks as well as a shot of a very close Swainson's. Both taken today.
How many roosting Swainson's Hawks can you see?
Swainson's, Intermediate Morph
Evening Watch: Only 6 TV's came in to roost, no Swainson's.
Prediction: Windy weather tomorrow so the TV's will leave early.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 6 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-1
Turkey Vultures-38
Discussion: A lonely vigil for the first 2 hours. I was alone when 4 small kettles of Turkey Vultures began to rise from different parts of the valley. Most of the season was crowded at the "hill". Now only a few hardy souls come out. The TV's kettled up at 9:20A from the date farm and the new roost site near Palm Canyon. Several TV's flew directly above the watch site. Kettles moved to the north and west making counting difficult.
Below is a late evening photo of Swainson's coming into the date farm to roost.
Coming Home to Roost
Evening Watch: At least 6 SW's flew low into Ellis Farms at 7P. Another 18-21 SW's dropped into the date farm at 7:15P. A beautiful evening. Some of the Swainson's Hawks were aerial feeding. There are lots of flying insects available, including dragon flies. The Borrego Postmistress, a new bird-watcher, came out this evening with a brand new pair of binoculars. Her first birds were the kettle of Swainson's coming to roost. What a wonderful new binoc etching.
Prediction: Hopefully the wind predicted for tomorrow
will hold off in the morning. If light in the AM as predicted, the Swainson's
will probably kettle up from both the date farm and Ellis Farms around 8:30-9:30A.
Look for some aerial feeding before departure.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 5 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-6
Turkey Vultures-16
Discussion: Some of the SW's lifted-off at 8:40A. The TV's and a few SW's lifted off at 9:10 from the date farm.
Totals so far this year:
Swainson's Hawks-1,787
Turkey Vultures-696
Other raptors-27
Grand Total-2,510
The numbers this year are far below our record of almost 7,000 raptors last year.
Evening Watch: Twenty-nine TV's came in and are roosting at the new site just off of Palm Canyon Drive.
Prediction: Winds should be light and from the east. Perhaps we will get some migration from the southeast. The TV's will probably lift-off between 9 and 10A.
Easy bird quiz:
This raptor passed the watch a few days ago. What is it?
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 4 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-8
Turkey Vultures-12
Discussion: Swainson's moved out at a distance. Very little wind today but few raptors.
The Swainson's Hawk in the photo below illustrates the typical migratory bow (wings taking the shape of a bow). The wings are set and the hawk is gliding with the assist of wind. This SW was moving northwest with a wind from the west. This year we have had very few hawks flying high with this shape.
Swainson's Hawk, Bow
Evening Watch: A beautiful calm evening with only 5 Swainson's Hawks gliding into the Ellis Farms. This evening was the anniversary of the first big incoming migration of Swainson's Six years ago today I watched a tornado of SW's descend into the valley. Tomorrow I will share totals for the year.
Prediction: Tomorrow we should have calm winds again.
A small kettle will probably form to the east near the Ellis Farms. Our
window of opportunity is beginning to shrink. Historically the number of
migrants drops quickly after the 7th of April.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 3 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-3
Turkey Vultures-5
Discussion: Only 3 SW's were observed today migrating. Very early winds may have blown the hawks from last night further east. The site from which both the SW's and TV's lifted-off from could not be determined.
Below is a picture of our youngest watcher this year, Sam at 5 1/2 months. Even with his keen eyes we could not find more hawks.
Sam's First Hawkwatch
Tomorrow evening marks the anniversary of the first big kettle of Swainson's in the valley. On April 4, 2003 I watched a tornado of hawks descend into the valley just before dark. After experiencing thousands of hawks in kettles in Veracruz, I am convinced I witnessed numbers exceeding 2,000 SW's that evening. Perhaps tomorrow we will have a repeat. The weather this evening was much like that fateful day, cold and windy.
Evening Watch: An extremely windy cold evening with only 10 TV's and 1 SW to show for it. Tomorrow the wind should be light. Hopefully we will be surprised.
Prediction: Only 1 SW and the TV's to look forward to.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 2 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-47
Turkey Vultures-16
Osprey-1
Sharp-shinned Hawk-1
Discussion: Swainson's Hawks were observed before lift-off in both at the date farm and Roadrunner Tree Farm. Lift-off (8:40A) of most of the SW's was from Ellis Farms. Kettles of SW's were observed to the south and east of the watch. I observed migration today from a location about 2 miles from the morning site. From this site in Indian Head Ranch I watched an Osprey, Sharp-shinned Hawk and 5 TV's migrate overhead. I counted as many as 45 SW's in the haze. The first vultures were up at 9:10A. Most of the Swainson's Hawks aerial fed for an hour over horse camp northwest of the morning watch site.
Below are photo's taken this morning of a diving SW (No, this is not a Peregrine Falcon) and the capture of an insect.
Stooping (diving) for the kill
(either flying ants or another species of insect)
Rearing back to grasp the insect
Evening Watch: A windy but productive evening. It seems as though the more folks we have at the watch the less birds we get. Today we had at least 21 Swainson's come in to the date farm. They spent a half hour playing in the wind. Ten TV's came in to the date farm as well.
Prediction: The wind is picking up and could be a factor tomorrow. A very early lift-off is anticipated. The Swainson's may move northwest and feed again before departing the valley.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 1 April 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-9
Turkey Vultures-18
Discussion: Winds in the morning got a small kettle of Swainson's up early from the date farm. At 9:45A 3 small kettles of TV's worked their way northwest. All the TV's roosted at the new site near Palm Canyon Drive. After 10A another small kettle of SW's migrated.
Below are yesterday's silhouette photos with the each bird's name below its picture. Look at the body shape, head and tail.
Common Raven
Swainson's Hawk
Evening Watch: At least 57 Swainson's Hawks came into the date farm. Twenty-two Turkey Vultures landed in the Palm Canyon roost. Hopefully we will get a nice Swainson's migration this week.
Prediction: The winds are tough to figure out lately.
It could be calm early with increasing winds. Unfortunately some of the
valley could be windy whereas other parts could be windy. Come to the morning
site early to find out the best viewing spot. Probably more than the 57
SW's are in the valley so it could be a fun morning.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 31 March 2009
Migration Today:
Turkey Vultures-42
Zone-tailed Hawk-1
Discussion: 42 TV's lifted from the new roost site on Palm Canyon Drive at 9:28A and broke into 3 kettles. They streamed northwest very low. I watched the TV's from the tennis court at the Roadrunner RV Park. Five minutes after viewing the TV's another bird with similar markings but much smaller flew directly above me. It was a Zone-tailed Hawk. It followed the TV's as they worked their way northwest. Below are silhouettes of two of the common birds that we observe almost daily during the hawk season. It is essential to know the difference because they often are together.
Evening Watch: It was very windy and few folks were out watching. At least 8 Swainson's Hawks were counted. A few of the hawks flew above us with bulging crops. Caterpillars are still available for feeding in the valley. Ten TV's came into the newest roost site just off Palm Canyon Drive.
Prediction: The winds should continue tomorrow. Lift-off should be early. Probably the best location to view the birds will be at the morning site on Di Giorgio Rd.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 30 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-6
Turkey Vultures-14
Sharp-shinned Hawk-1
Osprey-1
Discussion: A hazy day with lift-off spread over a few hours 7:45-9:20A. We are concerned that most of the spring migrant Swainson's Hawks have taken a different path north this year. Hopefully the next week will be productive. Below is another raptor from the past. One of many Borrego Springs paleontology sculptures.
Evening Watch: Thirty-five TV's came into the valley at 6P and are roosting 1/2 mile east of the elementary school. This is a new roosting site and has been used frequently in the past week.
Prediction: No Swainson's were observed this evening. A lift-off of the TV's will take place a few miles southeast of the morning site. Light wind is predicted.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 29 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-24
Turkey Vultures-20
Discussion: A few Swainson's flew overhead. We had no expectations of additional hawks but were surprised to see a kettle of 17 SW's. At least 3 high flyers (dots) came directly overhead. The Turkey Vultures didn't disappoint, kettling up from the date farm. It is now very windy perhaps blowing some SW's into town this evening. Below is a view of 3 caterpillars decimating flowers. The SW's are still finding plenty to eat before departing.
Three Stages of Caterpillars. Hal Cohen photo.
Evening Watch: No Swainson's Hawks came in on a very windy evening. Eight Turkey Vultures came in however.
Prediction: Another disappointing evening. We do not anticipate a big flight tomorrow. However, we were surprised by todays numbers after only 2 SW's came in last night.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 28 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-28
Turkey Vultures-1
Discussion: Distant SW's were up feeding on flying ants at 8:30A. When the hill was empty of most watchers (10A) 21 Swainson's Hawks kettled up north of the watch. We believe that these hawks were feeding on caterpillars a few miles north of the watch. It is these hawks that we saw last night. Below is an interesting shot of a nice light morph.
Swainson's, Light Morph
Evening Watch: Lot's of watchers but only 2 Swainson's Hawks and 19-24 Turkey Vultures. All of the raptors settled into the date farm.
Prediction: Winds are predicted to be NW at 25 tomorrow so an early take-off is forecast. Hopefully we will pick up more SW's in the coming week.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 27 March 2009
Migration Yesterday:
Swainson's Hawks-5
Discussion: Sorry, somehow the day's report misfired and didn't go out. Here it is-late-On a clear day with some wind, only 5 SW's migrated. Below is a photo taken on Thursday by Sabina Harte as several of the 187 SW's passed directly overhead and close.
Swainson's Hawk, by Sabina Harte
In today's (Saturday March 28) San Diego Union-Tribune there is a long article about the hawkwatch. I did not get to read it before it went to press. Yes, there are some errors like the trees the hawks favor. The trees are Tamarisks, not Manzanitas. Also, the longest citizen research project concerning birds is the Audubon Christmas Count. And 20,000 hawks can be seen in a kettle in Mexico, not in a day.
I just returned from today's count so I haven't looked closely at the article. Generally it is pretty good. He took a personal rather than scientific view of the hawkwatch.
Continuing about books for hawkwatching: I would be remiss If I didn't mention a few other books about hawks. Hawks in Flight by Pete Dunne, David Sibley and Clay Sutton, is an excellent book with discussion and comparison as well as drawings and photo's. North American Raptors by Brian K Wheeler & William S Clark has some wonderful photo's and descriptions. For those out there that want to understand, Flight Strategies of Migrating Hawks, Paul Kerlinger has a complete detailed description, however a bit technical for beginners.
Evening Watch: At 6:20P 13 TV's flew into the valley and finally landed in the vicinity of Pecoff Farm. At 7P, 20-30 Swainson's Hawks descended into the Tamarisk Trees lining Borrego Valley Rd at the Roadrunner Tree Farm.
Prediction: Winds should be light tomorrow so the hawks will probably kettle up together between 8:15-9A. Best viewing from the morning site on Di Giorgio Rd or on Henderson Canyon and Borrego Valley.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 26 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks 187
Turkey Vultures 21
Discussion: I left my home at 6:15A with the bander, searching for roosting SW's. We did not locate one hawk in a tree to tempt to a trap. We did see hawks flying near the potato fields.
At 8:15A Swainson's Hawks were in flight from several locations including the date farm, Ellis, Seeley and Viking farms as well as somewhere south of Borrego Valley. Most of the hawks came from Seeley and Viking farms (new roosting locations). Several watchers relocated 1 1/2 miles north to view large kettles of hawks close-up. Many hawks continued to stream out of Seeley. At 11:03A a group of Swainson's Hawks streamed north along the Indian Head corridor.
I have been asked about the best hawk identification books. Below are two that I use frequently. are Raptors of Western North America by Brian K. Wheeler (Princeton University Press, 2003), and Hawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors in Flight, by Jeffrey Ligouri with a foreward by David A. Sibley (Princeton University Press, 2005).
I am giving a hawk lecture about the watch, hawkwatching and identification at the Community Library in the main mall south of Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs. Tomorrow (Friday) and this Saturday at 2P. The lecture is free.
Evening Watch: We had around 50 people waiting for a big evening but only 8 Swainson's Hawks. They came into the east Tamarisks and the date farm.
Prediction: We are still waiting for the big day. Hopefully some hawks came in late this evening. Winds will be light tomorrow. Lift-Off probably between 8 and 8:30A. Come to the morning site for the best view.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 25 March 2009
Migration Today: Swainson's Hawks-24
Discussion: Two SW's were located next to Borrego Springs Rd (near Pecoff). Traps were placed beneath the birds but they did not respond. Swainson's Hawks kettled up from the date farm after 9A. Several hawks were spotted from an airplane traveling northwest through Coyote Canyon by our flying ranger.
During the next week we will hopefully witness several hundred migrating Swainson's.
It is interesting to study the migration pattern of the hawks. In the mid-1990's, several Swainson's Hawks were radio tracked over North and South America using a satellite system. Swainson's Hawks migrated an average of about 7,426 miles in their northward journey, traveling an average of 93 miles daily. A full account of the study can be found in the Journal of Avian Biology 29: 433-440, Copenhagen 1998. It is hoped that we will put transmitters on a few hawks in the future. Everything we can learn about the hawks will help conserve them.
Evening Watch: A very windy evening brought many Swainson's into the valley. At 6:30P several SW's were spotted above Ellis Farm and the potato fields. At least 70 SW's were counted. Another 24 SW's were observed coming to roost at the date farm along with 22 Turkey Vultures. The total Swainson's in the valley is between 90 and 125.
Prediction: Tomorrow's forecast is "windy, west wind
at 10-20mph with gusts to 35. Viewing locations include the evening site
on Borrego Valley Rd and the junction of Henderson Canyon Rd Borrego Valley
Rd. The morning site on DiGiorgio may be good as well. The hawks could kettle
up at several locations. You might want to check at the morning site to
see if any hawks have been captured. Morning wind may get the birds up very
early (between 7 and 8A).
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 24 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-2
Turkey Vultures-6
Discussion: It looks like a TV day, not a SW day as the shot below suggests. Only a mother vulture could love this bird. Lift-off just after 8A. Almost all of the raptors moved west and out through Palm Canyon. The lack of hawks during this peak period suggest that the tremendous winds of Sunday may have backed up the migration or hawks migrated elsewhere.
Evening Watch: Once again a light evening. Six Swainson's Hawks came in late to the date farm and probably Pecoff Farm. Four TV's were feeding on a carcass near Palm Canyon Drive.
Prediction: Hopefully late arrivals came in. We are still waiting for the big day.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 23 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-41
Turkey Vultures 17
Discussion: Finally the wind died down and we had a more normal flight. at 8:40A several Swainson's Hawks began to kettle up from the east side of Ellis Farm and the potato fields. All of the hawks moved in a northerly direction to Coyote Mountain and then northwest through Coyote Canyon.
We were fortunate to see another captured hawk up close. After taking blood samples, a few feathers, and measurements, the hawk is banded and released. After release the hawk moved west and north probably joining other migrants.
Swainson's Hawk 3/23/09
Evening Watch: Only 2 Swainson's and 6 TV's came in to roost at the date farm. Hopefully many more SW's are on the way.
Prediction: Hopefully we will be surprised tomorrow. We are still waiting for the big day. It is possible that the windy weather held up hawks to the south.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 22 March 2009
Migration Today:
The Hawkwatch was cancelled today early, due to high winds.
Discussion: A number of Swainson's Hawks flew low in all directions from the east Tamarisks. It was difficult to determine which hawks were migrants. The wind continued all day with gusts to 60 mph and above. My wind gauge stopped sending data in the mid-50's. It is now broken.
I was asked a question about the capture of the Swainson's Hawks. Below is a small trap designed to capture the hawks without harming the mouse bait or the hawks. The live mouse is put in the cage and loops of monofiliment line are tied to the top. When a hawk drops from a perch to take the mouse, the bird will get talons tangled in the line. The bird is removed immediately and is banded and data taken. The researcher will be in Borrego Springs for another week attempting to capture Swainson's Hawks.
Trap for capturing Swainson's Hawks
Evening Watch: With winds howling out of the northwest it was difficult to watch from the evening site. A few of us went to the east Tamarisks in search of Swainson's. We did see several on the ground and some birds attempting to fly into the wind. So we do have many Swainson's Hawks in the valley.
Prediction: High wind through tomorrow may slow down migration. Although there are many Swainson's Hawks in the area, most may remain in the area feeding. Tuesday the forecast is for light wind. It is possible that Tuesday could be a big migration day. If you are in the valley tomorrow, you might want to check in at the morning site early to find out the best place to view hawks. Driving east on Henderson Canyon Rd may be the best site at this time.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 21 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-29
Discussion: Most of the hawks came up from the potato fields. A few came out of the date farm and drifted east before joining the others. We still have trouble picking up the Turkey Vultures. They seem to elude us by either leaving early or changing roost sites. There are caterpillar feeding opportunities to the east along Henderson Canyon Rd and the potato farm. Below is the pupal stage of the White-lined Sphinx Moth. The caterpillars fatten up and burrow into sand to pupate.
White-lined Sphinx Moth Pupal stage
Evening Watch: Uneventful until we got a call around 7P that at least 82 Swainson's Hawks were in the Tamarisks far to the east near the potato fields. They probably are roosting there this evening.
Predictions: It should be very windy tomorrow with early lift-off. There are caterpillars scattered throughout the valley. We believe that the 82 plus Swainson's observed late may settle to the east. Viewing along Henderson Canyon Rd east of Borrego Valley Rd may be good. You can check in early at the morning site on DiGiorgio Rd to get up-to-date information. We are due for a large group of Swainson's. To date we have counted more than 1,300 SW's this season.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 20 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-44
Turkey Vultures-17
Discussion: Very little wind again today so lift-off was late (9:10A). Several watchers came out to both the morning and evening site. Joe Hopkins had a nice group that he shared the history of the watch with. Several Swainson's Hawks flew from the date farm east, spending time in creosote bushes or on the ground. They began to kettle and drift north directly over the watchers at the evening site.
We were fortunate to have Chris Briggs and Cynthia Downs (holding the hawk below) bring out a captured Swainson's Hawk. He is a PhD Candidate working with Swainson's Hawks. For more information concerning his work check out www.swainson.org.
Here is some of the research information: We hope to use satellite transmitters to look at the correlations between body condition and migration timing. We can predict that individuals in better body condition will depart from Argentina earlier because they can better withstand the hardships of migration. Earlier departure may give these individuals a better chance at successfully reproducing on their breeding grounds. We can further predict that the earliest individuals observed along a migration route will similarly be in better condition than those observed later. By trapping along the migration route, we can determine if this prediction is correct. Specifically, we are working with the Borrego Springs HawkWatch to set up trapping and test this prediction.
Chris will continue banding in Borrego Springs for another week or so.
Evening Watch: We had more hawkwatchers than hawks this evening. Although it was pleasant evening only 5 TV's and 5 Swainson's Hawks showed up. The weather will change over the weekend and hopefully bring in many birds.
Predictions: Aside from the 5 TV's and 5 SW's hawks it is hard to predict what will show up tomorrow. It is possible that Swainson's Hawks stopped at sites south of the valley. We are now entering the prime time for migration. Don't let one evening keep you away. Our expectations for a major migration are high.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Swainson's Hawk in a Tamarisk Tree
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 19 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks 225
Turkey Vultures 1
Discussion: Swainson's Hawks were found in several trees lining Henderson Canyon Rd early in the morning. I couldn't pass the shot below. Several hawks flew down to the ground to feed. Many birds relocated further east. Lift-off was late (9:37am). I have decided to use daylight saving time for future messages. The hawks congregated in 4 kettles that meandered back and forth making counting difficult. Many streamed east only to reappear north or south of the watch. Finally, the hawks began to move west and north out of the valley.
Evening Watch: A very pleasant evening with lots of new watchers. They weren't disappointed as a late group of Swainson's Hawks and 7 Turkey Vultures descended into the date farm. At least 50 Swainson's Hawks joined the TV's directly above our watchers.
Predictions: Tomorrow could be a bit windier so an early departure is likely. Don't expect the hawks to leave at 9:30A. I would shoot for 8-9am. The 50 SW's could be joined by additional late fly-ins. A shake up in the weather is expected this weekend as wind and lower temperatures are predicted. A high of 62 for Sunday. Best viewing is probably from the evening site on Borrego Valley Rd. tomorrow.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
ALERT
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 18 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-166
TV's 1
Discussion: Yesterday evening all of the hawks roosted in Tamarisks on Henderson Canyon Rd. close to the day watch site. Ravens harassed the hawks in the trees and on the ground. Many SW's appeared to be eating on the ground. At 9:20A daylight time, the hawks began to kettle up in a clear sky with calm wind. The hawks meandered around searching for thermals. At one point we viewed 3 large kettles. Hawks streamed back and forth coalescing, then breaking apart again. Finally all of the hawks streamed west directly above the watch and out of the valley in a northwest direction.
Below is a good training picture taken today. How many hawks can you count? Don't try counting them individually. In real time you wouldn't have enough time. It is much easier to count them when they are not spinning around. If in a kettle as the picture depicts, you can still count them by taking a figure (5 would be good here) and look for how many 5's you can see). Try it.
Evening Watch: Well, we had another great evening event. At 6:40P we spotted a huge kettle of Swainson's Hawks northwest of the evening site. I drove to the day site to find the hawks dropping into the Tamarisks directly west of the count site (very convenient for tomorrow's count). It was difficult to count the hawks as they did not stay up very long. Estimates range from 175-225 SW's. A few TV's were also observed roosting at other sites.
Predictions: Tomorrow should be partly cloudy with light winds. We should see lift-off sometime between 8:30A and 9:30A. However, if the hawks are inclined to eat caterpillars, they may leave earlier. It is possible that this could be our biggest count day this season.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 17 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks 41
Turkey Vultures 9
Discussion: No clouds today with calm wind conditions. Birds came up from Pecoff Farm, the date farm and potato fields. First lift-off at 8:30A hawk-time (standard). Lots of aerial feeding before departure from the valley.
Evening Watch: A calm, warm evening. At 6:40P a large kettle of Swainson's was sighted due west of the watch. Counts ranged from 90-132.
Someone asked me to share what we see on many evenings. See below for a series of photo's taken this evening. The first shot is of over 50 of the large spinning kettle. I chased the hawks to get a shot of them coming down to roost. The second shot is of the hawks descending after a glide. The third shot is near tree top as they start to drop into the tamarisks trees along Henderson Canyon Rd.
Beginning Friday evening we will have someone stationed at the evening and day site to share information about the hawk watch. Saturday March 28 at 2PM, I will give a talk on the hawks at the town library. The calendar for the Anza-Borrego Institute indicates that the evening watch is at 4P. Because of daylight savings time we meet at 6P. Join us any evening or day (8A-11A)
Predictions: Most of the SW's are roosting west of Borrego Valley Rd near Henderson Canyon Rd. Please do not disturb the birds near the road. I suspect that the best place to watch take-off is from the Di Giorgio daytime watch hill. Many of the SW's have gone northwest from Di Giorgio and probably will feed in Coyote Canyon before departing. With light winds tomorrow, lift-off will be somewhere between 8:30A and 9:30A daylight time.
over 50 birds from a large spinning kettle
hawks descending after a glide
Hawks Dropping into the tamarisks along Henderson Canyon Rd.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 16 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks 125
Turkey Vultures 41
Discussion: The hawks and TV's came up from 3 different locations today. Many of the hawks spent the night in the Ellis Farm and date farm. Several hawks from Ellis moved early to flower fields near Coyote to feed on caterpillars. Hawks began to kettle up to aerial feed on ants as well. Thirty-seven SW's from the date farm kettled up and streamed out of the valley. Forty-one TV's were observed coming out of Eucalyptus Trees east of town.
Evening Watch: Only 12 Swainson's Hawk came into the date farm to roost this evening.
Predictions: It is possible that additional hawks may arrive at the caterpillar feeding area west of Henderson Canyon Rd. Some of the SW's in the date farm can be seen from the evening site. Perhaps there are more hawks than counted.
How Swainson's Hawks Got Their Name: I was asked recently how the Swainson's Hawks got their name. See the excellent article on Wikipedia.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 15 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks 224, our highest count this year
Osprey 1
Discussion: I arrived at the potato fields at 7:30A (6:30A hawk-time). The wind was howling out of the Northwest. Swainson's were already on the move when I arrived. Within a half hour over 80 SW's kettled up and were driven east. They became dots and streamed out to the North. Additional SW's began to move throughout the next 2 hours. No photo's with the nasty wind today.
Our hawk bander is due in town in a few days. Last year he captured 3 SW's. Hopefully he will be successful this year.
Evening Watch: I gave a hawk talk at the local RV Park (The Springs) and arrived at the evening site at 6:50P with a group of folks. The Springs is located adjacent to the date farm. Hopefully some of those folks will turn into hawkwatchers as their location is perfect to intercept roosting hawks. Several SW's moved from Ellis Farm to the Date Farm. At least 44 SW's made the move. Additionally there are many SW's still at Ellis.
Predictions: The wind should decrease tonight and become light tomorrow. We should see anywhere from 44-90 SW's leave both from the date farm and Ellis Farm. With a light wind the hawks will probably be on the move between 8 and 9A.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 14 March 2009
Lift-off Alert — Eric Kallen Photo
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks- 12
Red-tailed Hawks- 2
Sharp-shinned Hawk- 1
Discussion: The SW's were actively feeding on a calm, warm day. A group of 8 SW's came in from the southeast and began feeding and left late (9:30A-hawktime). Above and below are a few photos taken by Eric Kallen Friday.
Evening Watch: This evening at 6:30P we watched as several Swainson's Hawks and TV's descended (estimated number-over 70 SW's) into Ellis Farm at Henderson Canyon Rd and Borrego Valley Rd. Most of the birds in the initial group are located near the recently sprayed potato farm. We drove to the back of Ellis Farm to watch at least 60 SW's fly from Coyote Mountain to another location. When we left the area at 7:15P, SW's were still flying in to roost. Several TV's were in the group. The Swainson's were probably feeding on caterpillars north of Henderson Canyon Rd. Below is a photo of part of the first group-Hal.
Predictions: Tomorrow should be quite a lift-off from the Ellis Farm. An estimate of 125-200 SW's and an unknown number of TV's is expected. The best place to view the hawks will probably be on Borrego Valley Rd, near Henderson Canyon Rd.
Eric Kallen photo, 13 March 2009
Eric Kallen photo, 13 March 2009
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Swainson's, Perched (Hal Cohen photo)
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 13 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-63
Discussion: Considering the number of hawks that we observed yesterday evening, we definitely had more than anticipated today. The SW's that roosted in the tamarisks near Henderson Canyon Rd and Borrego Valley Rd. cooperated by kettling up directly above the waiting watchers. Almost all of the hawks streamed to the burn area, kettled again, turning North then Northwest along Coyote Mountain before departing the valley. One of the perched SW's dropped to the ground and apparently picked up a rodent. The bird spent 15 minutes tearing up the meal before departing.
Photo opportunities were boundless today. See above, and below.
Tomorrow morning at 6A, helicopters are scheduled to begin spraying the potato fields adjacent to Borrego Valley Rd on the east side. Anyone that has lung problems or allergies may consider not coming to the valley tomorrow. I do not know what they will be spraying but they use several different poisons to control beetles and other insects. Often we have observed Swainson's Hawks feeding on the dead insects in the potato fields. This is an ongoing problem that Agri-empire has been involved in for several years. This week we have had 3 days of burning by Ellis Farms and now spraying-by Agri-empire. When will it stop?
Evening Watch: A beautiful evening but not eventful. A mystery buteo did fly in that will need identification tomorrow. At 7:15P, two Swainson's Hawks descended into the date farm. Late arrivals are very common. It is also possible that we missed birds in the very low light.
Predictions: We are hopeful that there will be SW's that came in late.
Swainson's Hawk, Adult Dark Morph
Swainson's Hawk, Adult Light Morph
Swainson's Hawks
Adult Intermediate Morph (left) and Adult Dark Morph
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 11 March 2009
White-lined Sphinx Moth
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-10
Turkey Vultures 6
Discussion: All of the hawks flew to the agricultural slash fire at Ellis Farms. They circled up in the heat created by the fires, before departing the valley. The Turkey Vultures were observed northwest of the hawkwatch. Below is the caterpillar of the White-lined Sphinx Moth. They are in abundance at the entrance to Coyote Canyon. By this weekend most of the wildflowers in that area will have been eaten. We will be watching for SW's going to that area to feed.
We are now waiting for the big migration push. In the next 2 weeks, we should see hundreds of Swainson's in the valley.
Evening Watch: An interesting evening. From the evening site we watched several Swainson's Hawks low and near the burned area at Borrego Valley Rd and Henderson. We drove to the area and counted conservatively 35 SW's but the number could be up to 60. The best viewing spot tomorrow will be from the intersection of Borrego Valley Rd. and Henderson Rd. It is possible that these birds are attracted to fried food in the burn area. Also we will check at the beginning of Coyote Canyon for birds feeding on the caterpillars. It should be a good morning but beware, if the wind is up they will be in the air by 7:00A.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 10 March 2009
Migration Today: 0
Discussion: A pleasant day but no apparent migration.
Evening Watch: I just left the evening watch. A calm clear evening. At 6:35P a few Swainson's Hawks began to descend into the date farm. As we scanned up we began to count several hawks. The total counted was 33. One TV was spotted as well.
Predictions: A view from the date farm on Borrego Valley Rd should be nice for the hawks tomorrow. They probably will take off between 8 and 9A. No wind is predicted. With burning going on we may see some feeding in fields.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 9 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-37
TV's ??-1
Discussion: I am sorry that you all got 3 e-mails yesterday by mistake. Hopefully it won't happen again.
Wind early brought the hawks up at 7:20A. Thirty-one SW's kettled up and flew Northwest and out of the valley. Additionally, 6 Swainson's continued to aerial feed before departing. One lone TV left by 9:30A. The first photo below shows feeding Swainson's. If you use your imagination you can see an ant in the talon of the SW in the second photo.
Reaching out for ants. Photo by LeRoy Dorman 3/8/09
Ant or pair of ants in the talon, we think. Photo by LeRoy Dorman 3/8/09
Evening Watch: This evening only one lone Swainson's hovered above us. No other hawks or TV's were observed.
Predictions: Unless some SW's snuck in after dark, we do not expect much of a migration tomorrow. Based on previous years, our next wave of migrants is due around March 13th.
Directions and Timing | February 2009
White-lined Sphinx Moth minus antennae
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 8 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-3
Discussion: Two hawks spent time aerial feeding. The TV's counted yesterday evening were not seen today. White-lined Sphinx Moths are beginning to show up (see photo above). Caterpillars are also being observed. Someone asked about feeding on migration. The Swainson's Hawks are opportunistic feeders. In Borrego Valley there are 6 sources of food. Flying ants, sphinx moth caterpillars, dragonflies, rodents, beetles and other insects killed by spraying of potato fields, and several creatures fried by palm fires (burn-offs at palm farms). Additionally there is a source of chopped up snakes, rodents and insects about 15 miles east of the watch (a farm that plows up the ground for planting).
Evening Watch: At 6:56P we watched Swainson's Hawks begin to gather together very high. By 7:05P they descended into the date farm. The high count was 43. We expect at least this number of SW's to migrate tomorrow. It is beginning to get windy so an early lift-off is probable. We will monitor the weather tomorrow and possibly arrive at the watch site by 7:30A (if windy).
Directions and Timing | February 2009
Swainson's Hawks, 6 March 2009, 4:45 p.m.
Swainson's Hawks, 6 March 2009, 5:30 p.m.
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 7 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-135
Discussion: The weather cooperated with light winds. The lift-off of SW's began at 8:22A from the date farm. The first group of 38 Swainson's kettled up and loosely moved east, then north to Coyote Mountain. The second group of 53 SW's streamed north from the date farm and kettled close to the watch. Additionally 44 Swainson's were sighted to the southwest at 9:45A. The TV's spotted yesterday evening never showed up. It is possible that they migrated low to the west before turning north. Not a cloud was in the sky all day. I believe that migration may have continued at high altitude during the day. The flying ranger reported seeing 8 Swainson's Hawks to the east of Borrego Springs. She will be watching from the air for incoming hawks.
Don't forget to change your clocks tomorrow. The hawkwatch operates on hawk time (standard, not daylight savings). If you plan to come to the watch tomorrow, you might want to come at 9A (8A-hawktime) instead of 8A. Also, the time change will influence the evening meeting time. We will meet at the evening site around 6PM instead of 5PM.
Evening Watch: This evening only 3 TV's and 1 SW was observed.
Prediction: Tomorrow should have light winds but no expectations of a big flight. Winds will pick up in the afternoon and continue through Monday. We have had significant flights on windy days.
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 6 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-4 (and counting – see Evening Watch below)
Turkey Vultures-21
Discussion: Lift-off of SW's at 8:15. The TV's came up in small groups with no real kettles forming. It was windy, cool with virtually no clouds. The winds have continued all day.
Evening Watch: This evening we are posting our first spring Alert. At 4:30P we watched 13 TV's arrive at the date farm with 3 Swainson's Hawks. By 5P we counted 48 SW's. By 5:15P the number increased to at least 75. Additional Swainson's continued to come in. For 1/ 1/2 hours we watched as the SW's descended into the date farm only to rise up again. They spread out all around us in the diminishing light. Above are two shots taken at 4:45P and 5:30P. The numbers may exceed 125 SW's and 13 TV's. The temperature dropped into the 50's and wind gusts to 35 made it tough to count the Swainson's.
Predictions: The Swainson's Hawks may have split into groups roosting at the date farm, Ellis Farm and Pecoff Farm. We hope they are concentrated at the date farm. If the wind continues in the early hours tomorrow, the SW's will probably get up early. I will be at the watch site by 7A if it is windy. With little or light wind take-off should be between 7:45A and 9A. Don't be late!
Turkey-Vulture near the Hawkwatch Hill, by Hal Cohen
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 5 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-1
Turkey Vultures -12
Discussion: The morning started very windy. It is possible that there was an early migration of TV's. Most of the TV's counted came in just before 10A from a distance and very high. We believe that there is a roosting site about an hour south of Borrego where the late TV's are coming from. Only one low flying Swainson's Hawk was observed.
Directions and Timing: Several new hawkwatchers are on our list. At this date we have over 300. We will be developing a website by the end of the season. For the new folks, here is information about the location of both the day and evening site. The day site is on DiGiorgio Rd about 2.8 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. We are at the site every day through April 15 from 8-11A. On Sunday March 8 the time will change. We probably will come out a little later (8:30A) beginning Sunday. We will always use hawk-time (one hour earlier than daylight savings time) for our count. As the season progresses, we will get out earlier to watch for early migrants. The evening site is located about 1.8 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive on Borrego Valley Rd. We meet about one hour before sundown. As of Sunday March 8 we will meet around 6P because of the time change.
The peak of migration is a week or so away. Take a look at Hawkcount.org to view data from the past 7 years. Scroll down to Borrego Valley. Back to top.
Evening Watch: An interesting evening watch. From a location 2 miles south of the evening watch site, I spotted 37 TV's coming to roost in the Roadrunner Mobile Park. Additionally 4 Swainson's were spotted.
Predictions: We should have a nice kettle of TV's and perhaps some Swainson's. If it is windy again, takeoff will be early.
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 4 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-3
Turkey Vultures -6
Discussion: We had very windy conditions early. Hawks were flying by 7:20A and probably even earlier. Swainson's were observed at a few locations but were not observed from the hawkwatch. Winds should continue through Thursday.
Evening Watch: Nine TV's and only 1 Swainson's Hawk were observed near the date farm.
Predictions: Not much to report. We are waiting for the big migration push in the next few weeks.
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 3 March 2009
Migration:
Swainson's Hawks-9
Turkey Vultures-12
Discussion: Winds early brought the TV's up by 7:20A. A Northwest headwind pushed both the SW's and TV's west against the mountains. Two of us checked out a high site to watch migration through Indian Head Estates. In the future this and other sites closer to the mountains might help us locate migrants.
Evening Watch: At least 20 TV's and 7 SW's flew into the valley. The TV's settled into the date farm.
Predictions: Migration of Swainson's Hawks continues to be slow.
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch: 2 March 2009
Migration:
Swainson's Hawks-11
Turkey Vultures -4
Discussion: A few SW's migrated at 9:15A followed by a group at 10A. Thirty SW's were reported at the beginning of Coyote Canyon. With more wind and a front this weekend, we should see the migration pick up. Historically our first good wave of SW's should be between March 7-10.
Evening Watch: Four Swainson's Hawks came close to the watch. No other migrants were observed.
Predictions: Hopefully the changing weather pattern will bring in some migrants.
Borrego Valley Hawkwatch 1 March 2009
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-18
Turkey Vultures ? ? ?-24
Discussion: At least 10 SW's and and a number of TV's roosted in the line of Tamarisks directly west of the hawkwatch. A large group of birders from Irvine had the opportunity to watch them take off at 9A. A few of the hawks aerial fed before departing. A group of 8 SW's and some TV's came into the valley from a distance after 10A. These birds probably roosted an hour southeast of the watch.?
If visiting the hawkwatch it is best to come early and wait for lift-off. Often folks turn up at 10A or 11A and are disappointed. 90% of the raptors are on the move by 9A.?
Evening Watch: A beautiful evening but no incoming birds. Of we could be surprised tomorrow as we were today.
Above is a nice close shot of a beautiful Turkey Vulture taken near the day site by me.
Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association
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