Dark Intermediate (Rufous) Swainson's Hawk
Courtesy of K.C. Choo, ARPS, April 14, 2011
Dark Intermediate Morph Swainson's Hawk
Courtesy of Dan Stevenson April 14, 2011
Last kettle for the season? Probably not
Hal Cohen, April 15, 2011
Migration Today, 15 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-44
Northern Harrier-1
This will be our last post of the season.
Discussion:
Today's weather was Calm, clear--no clouds, but hazy with fair visibility
and temperature around 75 degrees. Lift-off was at 8:35A south of the fallow
potato fields from Creosote bushes and Tamarisk trees. A few nice kettles
formed with 10-25 Swainson's Hawks. The hawks moved south and east before
flying north to Coyote Mountain. Some aerial feeding behavior was detected
before departure from the valley. A Northern Harrier migrated as well. Above
are some of the last photos of the season. The photos were taken yesterday
and today.
Here are some statistics for the season. Our total Swainson's Hawk count was 8,868. The old record was 5,378. The total Turkey Vulture count was 1,425. The previous record was 1,411. The total raptors counted this year is 10,343. This figure blows away the previous high of 6,872 in 2008. We only had one zero Swainson's Hawk day this year.
The hawkwatch has had a very successful season due to the dedication of our leaders and volunteers. Our thanks to: Bob Theriault-Monday; Steve Bier and Karin Vickars-Tuesday; Joe Hopkins-Wednesday; Hal Cohen-Thursday; Grace Clark and Suzanne Schmidt-Friday; Laura Webb-Saturday: Herb Stone-Sunday. Paul Jorgensen supported all the leaders at both the day and evening watch. Our linch pin watcher-Rose-Marie Leong helped almost every day and evening for over 30 days. Wes Hetrick dedicated 15 days both day and evening. Laura Webb not only was a leader, she made herself available whenever needed. Ann Keenan is our first education expert (working with groups from the State Park). The continued support of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park-Anza-Borrego Foundation and Anza Borrego Institute are invaluable to our program. Thanks to all the folks that generously donated to the PORTS program (Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students). Next season with funds from our donors, we will develop an educational program about Swainson's Hawks and the hawkwatch. This program will be broadcast to classrooms across California. The hawkwatch is located on land owned by Roadrunner Tree Farm. Thanks to the manager of Roadrunner for continued support of the day watch site.
The photo's this year have been remarkable. Thanks to all those photographers that shared their work with us. Next winter we are planning a Hawk photo exhibit.
Evening Watch:
At least 23 Swainson's Hawks were observed aerial feeding this evening just off Henderson Canyon Rd. Two SW's were spotted in the fallow potato fields.
Prediction:
Tomorrow look for a nice kettle of hawks around 8:30A. A good location to watch them take off and possibly feed is about 2 miles east of Borrego Valley Rd. on Henderson Canyon Rd.
Swainson's-Is this number 10,000? Or the guys in the background?
Hal Cohen, 4/13/11
Or Is This Turkey Vulture Raptor number 10,000
Anyway, This Turkey Vulture is well insulated!
Hal Cohen, 4/13/11
More Candidates (Turkey Vultures) for Raptor Number 10,000
Hal Cohen, 4/13/11
Migration Today, 13 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-89
Turkey Vultures-21
Discussion:
Possibly one of the birds above marked the 10,000th raptor of the season!
An interesting day with lots of birds on the ground before lift-off at 8:30A
on a very windy morning. The SW's moved higher very quickly, then headed northwest.
Twenty-one TV's perched on DiGiorgio Rd moved west and out of the valley.
Evening Watch:
Once again many hawks came into the field to the east of the potatoes. This
third photo above was taken from what we now officially call the hill to the
east, Peg-leg Point. The location is about 1/2 mile west of Peg-leg off-road
camping area. We counted 69 Swainson's on the ground and another 40 or more
in the air to the west.
Prediction:
The high wind that we are now experiencing should diminish overnight. By 8A we should have calm conditions. Tomorrow we might see one of the last good kettles of hawks for the season. Expect the SW's to take off between 8-9A. Check in at the DiGiorgio site to find out where the hawks are roosting. We expect over 100 Swainson's to depart the valley.
Subadult 2 years old light morph, courtesy of Anthony McGhee
Migration Today, 11 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-71
Turkey Vultures-2
Northern Harrier-1
Zone-tailed Hawk-1
Discussion:
A pleasant day with temps in the 60's and calm wind with some cloud cover. From the newly named eastern summit (now Rock Hill) we watched as 45 Swainson's frolicked on the ground, chasing, hopping and occasionally feeding on grasshoppers. Most of these hawks were juveniles or subadults. I found some small hoppers in fields near my house today. They appeared to be a different species than the Graybird hopper. At 9:00A some of the SW's kettled up. By 9:45A most of the hawks departed along the flanks of Coyote Mountain.??Perhaps we will enjoy more Swainson's migration through our final week of counting. At this point we are very close to 10,000 migrants. Until this year we never dreamed of reaching 10,000. Above is a nice shot of a 2 year old subadult light morph, taken by the Anthony McGhee.
Evening Watch:
An interesting evening. From Rock Hill (furthest east high point near the fallow potato fields) at least 25 Swainson's were on the ground. A kettle of 30+ Swainson's were spotted aerial feeding to the north. Most of the hawks finally flew to the Tamarisks near Ellis Farms.
Prediction:
We continue to have Swainson's dropping in each evening. We believe that some of the hawks have stayed over after feeding during the day. At least 60 and perhaps more will probably take off tomorrow. Check in at the DiGiorgio site at 8A for directions to the roosting hawks. They probably will be?visible?from Rock Hill to the east.
A fallow field east of the potatoes, Hal Cohen
Comparison of a Swainson's Hawk (top) and a Raven, Hal Cohen
Swainson's lift-off from a fallow field-4/9/11, Hal Cohen
Migration Today, 9 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-44
Discussion:
Today was windy and very cold (50 degrees). The fallow field below is typical of the old agriculture fields (could be potatoes) that are east of the active potato field. There are plenty of grasshoppers in these fields. Someone asked me to compare a Swainson's Hawk and a Raven. The photo above shows the two side by side. A Swainson's Hawk has a wing span of 47-54 inches. A Common Raven has a wing span of 42-48 inches. They are comparable in size. Today we observed over 40 Swainson's Hawks on the ground in the farthest east fallow field. Above is a shot of the hawks taking off.
We now have counted more than 8,000 Swainson's Hawks this season. This tops our best previous season by 3,000 hawks! Details will follow when the season comes to a close next week. We still expect more migrants in the next few days.
Evening Watch:
Another migration tonight. At least 150 Swainson's came into the fallow fields east of the active potato fields. One hundred were counted on the ground before they took off to probably roost at Ellis Farms. Another small group of SW's (4+) have come into the date farm along with at least 8 TV's.
Prediction:
The wind is predicted to continue through the night and into tomorrow. Hopefully it will lessen by early morning. The Swainson's hawks will most likely go to the fallow fields along the diagonal road near Henderson Canyon Rd. At least 150 and probably more Swainson's will kettle up tomorrow. Lift-off has been late, even with the continued wind. Count on lift-off between 8-9A. The diagonal road is off of Henderson Canyon Rd. Take Henderson Canyon Rd east 1/2 mile past Borrego Valley Rd. turn right onto the diagonal road. Look for a box on the left hand side of the road about 1/2 mile down the road. This marks the spot to walk past the trees to the fields. Do not enter the fields however. If you are uncertain about the directions, go to the watch site on DiGiorgio Rd by 8A. I will be leading a group to the hawks at 8AM.
Graybird Grasshopper, Schistocerea nitens, Primary food source of Swainson's Hawks in
the fallow potato fields. Hal Cohen
Swainson's Hawk leaving the fallow potato field with a full crop, probably grasshoppers, 4/5/11-Hal Cohen
Migration Today, 6 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-381
Discussion:
The weather was partly cloudy and 70 degrees with variable wind. We located several hawks in the first fallow field to the east of the producing potato field. They were actively feeding on grasshoppers. At 8:05A a few SW's began to test the air. Within minutes several kettles formed and the hawks drifted to the east. By 9:30A most of the hawks had departed some perhaps through Rock-house Canyon near Clark Lake. Obviously the grasshoppers are a major attraction as evidenced by the bulging crop, almost obliterating the beak on the Swainson's below. We have watched several SW's leaving the field with a similar bulge. Those hawks that depart the field early all have had full crops.
Evening Watch:
At 6:45P 20-25 Swainson's descended into Ellis Farms. by 7:20P no other SW's were observed. There are are few SW's at the fallow field.
Prediction:
Heavy wind is predicted for the next few days. Gusts to 50 mph could be in the picture. Tomorrow the Swainson's will probably ring up from the fallow potato fields very early. I will be at the DiGiorgio site to direct folks to the birds. I will be there at 7:45A. You can go directly to the diagonal road. Take Henderson Canyon Rd .4 miles east, past Borrego Valley Rd. to a diagonal road on the right. Go 1/2 mile on the diagonal road until you see junk on the side stop at a box on the left and walk to the right to see the hawks.
Swainson's above the Tamarisk
5 April 2011, 7:15PM, at Ellis Farm on Borrego Valley Rd, Hal Cohen
A closer view of Swainson's
5 April 2011, evening, Hal Cohen
Swainson's kiting above Borrego Valley Rd at last light
5 April 2011, 7:40PM, Hal Cohen
Migration Today 5 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-86
TV's-1
Discussion:
A sunny day with temps in the 80's and slight breeze from the southeast. A group of about 20 people watched Swainson's rise from the fallow potato field today at 8:50A. At least 4 easily viewed kettles formed with a few SW's flying directly overhead. Most of the hawks streamed west and then north out of the valley. Some streamed north and then northwest. We walked out into the field to check on insects. Tomorrow I'll share a picture of the Gray Bird Grasshopper that is the primary food source for the Swainson's. We checked the field adjacent to the producing potatoes, then for a control we checked 2 other fields in other area's. The results were the same, lots of grasshoppers. This is the first time we have observed the SW's feeding on grasshoppers. It is very possible that the hawks key on the productive potato field then settle into the adjacent field. Any farm type activity seems to attract Swainson's. The common name of the Swainson's Hawk in Argentina is "Grasshopper Hawk" Our SW's are hot-wired for grasshoppers.
Evening Watch:
Several Swainson's were spotted around 6:30P over Coyote Mountain. The appeared to be dropping at the foot of the mountain. At 7P they streamed across Henderson Rd, over the fallow fields and ended up at Borrego Valley Rd and the Ellis Farm. They may be roosting in Ellis. However at first light they probably will drop into the fallow fields to the east. All of the shots below were taken from Borrego Valley Rd just east of Ellis Farm. We counted around 200 Swainson's. This is a low number.
Prediction:
Wind should begin to pick up tomorrow. If it is early, the hawks will get up early. We predict a migration of 200-300 Swainson's. However it could be much greater. Hawks probably will feed in the fields early and take off anywhere from 7:30A-8:30A. You can check in at the DiGiorgio site. Best views are probably from the diagonal road off of Henderson (about 1/2 mile east of Borrego Valley Rd). You will see cars on the road.
"Caterpillars in flour field," by Ranger Steve Bier
"kettle of Swansons," by Ranger Steve Bier
Migration Today, 4 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-592
TV's-18
Discussion:
A clear day with temps in the 70's and light wind from the southeast. Well, we weren't surprised by the numbers. Also, the southeast wind brought the hawks closer to the watch site. The Swainson's kettled up at 8:40A and reached heights very quickly. They then streamed northwest, filling the east and north sky. They continued ringing up and streaming for well over an hour. The number of migrant Swainson's this year has been phenomenal.
The photo's below are in honor of our counter today, Steve Bier. This was supposed to be out April 1. Here it is today in it's full glory. Although, this year the SW's prefer the potato fields to the flower fields. Also, we have had no reports of caterpillars this year. Tomorrow I intend to invade the fields where the hawks have been hanging out. I want to see what the hawks are feeding on. I believe that the hawks are attracted to dead and dying insects from the producing potato field. It is possible that the west and northwest winds that predominate the valley, carry the insects into the fallow fields. Swainson's Hawks are very adept at seeing movement in the fields and key in on the insects. There is evidence that some of the chemicals used may be injurious to wildlife.
Evening Watch:
No report of Swainson's coming into the valley. Of course they could have come in very late.
Prediction:
The wind tomorrow will be light. We will check the potato fields and report the info to the main site on DiGiorgio. If there are hawks, they will fly around 8:30A.
Light Morph Swainson's Hawk in motion. Up stroke. Hal Cohen
Down stroke, Hal Cohen
Migration Today, 3 April 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-33
Discussion:
Warm and windy today. The Swainson's Hawks were observed this morning on the ground in the fallow potato fields. At 8:30A the hawks lifted off and drifted southeast and probably flew northwest along the flanks of Coyote Mountain. Above are shots of one SW showing a stroke of the wings.
If you counted the hawks in the two photo's from April 1, the first photo should yield 90 SW's; the second photo should yield 52 SW's. Most counters over estimate when counting lower numbers and under estimate when counting higher numbers.
We have been asked where are the hawks migrating from at this stage. We believe that at this date some of the migrants are coming from Argentina, several thousand miles south of our watch. Another question, where are they going. A good question. We don't know but probably northern California, eastern Oregon and Washington and British Columbia.
Evening Watch:
Beginning at 5:30P Swainson's Hawks were observed in the first row of Tamarisks east of the active potato field. At least 150 SW's were counted. I know it sounds old but we are beginning to multiple the number observed by 3 for expected migration the next day. We just cannot see all of the hawks. So tomorrow we should have a good sized migration of Swainson's.
Prediction:
Winds should be light tomorrow so lift-off from 8:30-9A is predicted. The best viewing spot is again on the diagonal rd off of Henderson. We will check for the exact location of the roosting hawks in the early am. You can get directions from the watch site on DiGiorgio Rd. Tomorrow the wind is supposed to swing to the southeast. This may actually bring the birds directly over the DiGiorgio site. Don't be late. At least 150 and perhaps 3 times this number may take off.
A sorry Turkey Vulture along DiGiorgio Rd
Hal Cohen, 2 April 2011
A dark Intermediate Morph Swainson's Hawk
K.C. Choo, ARPS April 2, 2011
Migration Today: 2 April 2011
Swainsons' Hawk -473
Turkey Vulture - 9
Red-tailed Hawk -2
Sharp-shinned hawk - 1
Cooper's hawk -1
Discussion: Today was much cooler at 80 degrees. It was a perfect hawk sky with loads of fair weather cumulus clouds and a slight breeze from the northwest. We found most of the Swainson's at the fallow potato fields and in Tamarisks near the fields. Most of the SW's on the ground were packed very close together. We could only count around 100 SW's. At 8:30A SW's began to lift-off. At least 10 kettles formed. Each kettle moved east and out of sight. One nice photo of a dark intermediate Swainson's was taken however. A count of 473 Swainson's was made at this point. Three of us drove to the Desert Garden area in Coyote Canyon to confirm that the hawks all migrated. For 2 1/2 hours we watched as the Swainson's streamed past us. Other migrants joined the parade including a sharpie, coop, 2 red-tails and some TV's.
Evening Watch: Sorry, not much to report this evening as the sad Turkey Vulture above suggests. Only 5 Swainson's showed up. We checked the potato fields and only found 1 SW. Of course, we have been fooled before!
Prediction: Check in at the DiGiorgio site to see if there are any roosting hawks in the valley. It may be windy tomorrow. After a few days of windy conditions, we might have our last Swainson's wave of the season. Monday or Tuesday could be good.
Adult light morph 3/31/11-Hal Cohen
A practice shot for counting. Guess how many. After each letter, write your answer.
A. Guess the total number. B. Count by 10's-how many 10's?
C. Finally Count each one for a total.
A practice shot-Repeat as above.
A. Make a number guess. B. Count by 10's. C. Count each one.
Migration Today: 1 April 2001
Swainson's Hawks-32
Turkey Vultures-5
Discussion: Another very hot day in the upper 90's and sunny with a slight breeze from the east. We counted 26 Swainson's Hawks in the fallow potato field east of the newly planted field. Most of the hawks were sitting on the ground. At 8:35A they began to kettle up and fly to the east, aerial feed, then they moved north. The TV's took off from the Roadrunner Club at 9A. Next week I am going to start working on a blog. This way you can access my reports at your pleasure. Sometimes when I send a report out it gets bounced back. Probably because I send almost 500 and some services see me as a spammer and block the e-mails. Above are two practice shots. Follow the instructions. Make sure you write down A, then B, then C. We'll discuss the results later.
Evening Watch: A pleasant evening with some incoming Swainson's Hawks. Anywhere from 60-80 SW's came into the Tamarisks east of the producing (green) potato field. The hawks have keyed onto the fallow potato fields east of the producing potatoes. We hope the hawks are not eating dead insects blown in from the sprayed potato's. Tomorrow I plan to go out into the fields after the hawks have departed to check for insects.
Prediction: I have two conflicting wind reports for tomorrow AM. One indicates light wind, the other very windy. If the wind picks up, the Swainson's will take off between 7-8A. If we have light wind the SW's will kettle up around 8:30A. At least 60 and probably a lot more Swainson's will lift-off. The best viewing area has been on a diagonal rd off of Henderson Canyon Rd. I will stop by the DiGiorgio watch site at 8A to lead folks to the best viewing area. If you are late someone will give you instructions.
Swainson's Hawks on the ground in a fallow potato field K.C. Choo, ARPS
Swainson's Hawk-Intermediate Morph (rufous) K.C. Choo, ARPS
Swainson's Hawk in a dive after a flying insect K.C. Choo, ARPS
Migration Today: 31 March 2011
Swainson's Hawks-183
Discussion:
The temperature today almost reached 100 degrees. We counted around 30 SW's on the ground. However the mustard hid several more hawks. At 8:38A the Swainson's began to ring up forming 3-4 kettles to the south and west of the fallow potato field. They meandered around combining kettles until single hawks began to stream north. We had great views of the SW's as they glided above us. Above are photo's courtesy of "K.C. Choo, ARPS" We've had a remarkable week with 2 days with record numbers including 1,851 Swainson's on Monday, 473 on Tuesday and 1,456 on Wednesday and 183 today. There are more Swainson's to come this month.
Evening Watch:
No apparent migration tonight. We will check the fallow potato fields tomorrow for possible late arrivals.
Prediction:
Based on 0 numbers this evening, it finally looks like the recent wave of hawks has come to a closure. Hopefully we will have some late arrivals. Maybe we will be fooled tomorrow.
Swainson's Hawks rising up from the fields-3/30/11-Hal Cohen
A funnel cloud of Swainson's forming-3/30/11
Time to count as the SW's begin to stream to the north 3/30/11-Hal Cohen
A closer view of Swainson's Hawks, showing different morphs 3/30/11-Hal Cohen
Migration Today, 30 March 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-1,456
TV's-23
Discussion:
Will the constant Swainson's migration never end? Although we knew we had more SW's than counted last night, we never expected to see over 500 SW's sitting in a field to the east of the potato fields. At 8:45A the hawks began to rise from the fields. At least 9 large kettles formed and at one point we observed a tornado of hawks. We observed the milling hawks change direction and all begin to wheel about counter clockwise (Is this because they come from Argentina?). The first shot above shows hundreds of SW's kettling up. The lower left smudge is actually a concentrated group of hawks. Part of a funnel is seen in the second shot. The third shot is a small section of streaming SW's The final photo is a close-up of all color morphs. More photo's from some of the big guns hopefully tomorrow.
We believe the count above to be on the low side. It is very difficult to count so many swirling birds. At another location near 79 and 22, over 500 Swainson's were seen this afternoon.
We often are asked why the evening count is much lower than the actual flight the next morning. It is difficult to see all of the hawks coming in to roost. Also, when we count the hawks on the ground and in trees, we miss many. Hawks can fly in an hour after the sun sets. Their vision is much keener than ours. Often hawks will fly in from distant roost sites. We do not approach close to the hawks to prevent a premature departure (energy loss). So we will always undercount. We enjoy the surprise numbers as well.
We now have exceeded the highest years count. In the past 3 days we have counted 3,480 Swainson's Hawks. Check out Hawkcount.org for totals for the past 9 years (including this year) Go to monthly summaries, scroll down to Borrego Valley and choose the months and years. Check comparisons.
Evening Watch:
Of course our expectations were high this evening. We did see some incoming Swainson's (about 25-30). Again they are east of the potato field. It is possible that more SW's will come in too late to observe.
Prediction:
Based on the number of hawks counted this evening, we will have a light migration, perhaps 30-50 SW's. However we have been fooled before. Check in at the watch site on DiGiorgio Rd for directions to take-off points. The wind should be light so lift-off should be around 8:30A. The temperature could be in the 90's!
Turkeys in Coyote Canyon entrance, 29 March 2011, courtesy of Pam Albers
Dark Morph Swainson's Hawk, 29 March 2011, courtesy of Ray Spencer
Migration Today, 29 March 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-456
Turkey Vultures-12
Red-tailed Hawks-2
Northern Harrier-1
Cooper's Hawks-3
Sharp-shinned Hawks-2
Kestrel-1
Golden Eagle-1
Unidentified falcon-1
Discussion:
Another day with several kettles of Swainson's Hawks. Lift-off at 8:45A east of the potato fields. All the hawks moved steadily through Coyote Canyon. A juvenile Golden Eagle joined the Swainson's parade. Once again the Desert Garden provided some action other than the usual Swainson's Hawks and Turkey Vultures. Pam Albers observed the turkeys above at the entrance to Coyote Canyon.
Evening Watch:
At least 150-200 Swainson's descended east of the potato fields. The flight began at 5:15P and lasted an hour. Scattered SW's are in the date farm, Ellis Farm and on DiGiorgio Rd. Eleven TV's cruised past the watch and are probably near Ellis Farm.
Prediction:
A light wind picking up in later morning may get our hawks up earlier. The flight should begin around 8-830A. Check in at the DiGiorgio watch site to find out the best location to watch the kettles form. It will be very warm tomorrow-92degrees is predicted. We may see more than the predicted number tomorrow with late arrivals.
Swainson's in feeding mode, 3/28/11-Hal Cohen
A Swainson's with something in its beak, perhaps a moth or dragonfly
Alan Miller photo, 3/28/11
Getting ready to feed, Courtesy of Alan Miller-3/28/11
Migration Today: 28 March 2011
Swainson's Hawks-1,851
Turkey Vultures-83
Discussion: The number of Swainson's Hawks predicted last night was exceedingly low! We did see over 200 SW's in the fields that we located last night. We did not count on incoming birds from several locations to the south and east. At 8:30A SW's began to kettle up from the fields east of the potatos. A few of us moved to a large dune area within site of the tower near Peg-leg. Swainson's began to swirl around us. I believe that some were attracted to insects near the hill. Above is a shot of what appears to be a large insect (not an ant). Photography was tough as the hawks were only 10 yards above us. Thanks to Alan Miller for the nice shots. We began to see several kettles forming in all directions. Most of the SW's drifted east then north to Coyote Mtn. They then moved northwest through Coyote Canyon.
Scanning to the east and south we spotted several hundred Swainson's milling about. At this point we decided to move to Coyote Canyon for further counting. Over 1,400 SW's had already passed us and were well into the canyon. By the time we arrived at Desert Garden the large group had streamed northwest. We counted streams, kettles and individual SW's from 10A to 12:30P. We added another 400+ Swainson's to our total. Swainson's continued to migrate until 3PM. On March 26, 2004 we tallied 1,406 Swainson's Hawks. Today our total was 1,851.
Evening Watch:
At least 45 Swainson's came in from the east at 4:30P and settled into the
Tamarisks due east of the potato fields. Additionally over 200 Swainson's
flew in from the south at 7:15P. The hawks counted was on the low side as
it was too dark to continue counting. At least 8 TV's came in to roost at
the date farm.
Prediction: Once again we should have a light wind and lots of Swainson's up around 8:00-9A. Most of the birds will be east of the watch on DiGiorgio. You may check in at the watch to see where it is best to view them take off. We expect more than 200 and possibly 400 or more Swainson's tomorrow. The SW's will probably ring up and head to Coyote Canyon and out of the valley. Henderson Canyon Rd near the turn to Peg-leg might be a good spot to watch the migration. I will be in Coyote Canyon at the Desert Garden area to check for birds we can't see from the DiGiorgio site.
Swainson's Hawks above the potato fields, 3/27/11
Swainson's Hawks landing in the field adjacent to the potato fields, 3/27/11
Migration Today: 27 March 2011
Swainson's Hawks-120
Turkey Vultures-21
Red-tailed Hawks-2
Discussion:
Last night Swainson's evidently came in under the radar (late arrivals). Swainson's began to kettle up at at 8:30A. At least 50 SW's were in the air surrounding the watch site. Many of them came in low for good looks. By 10A over 90 SW's were in the air. Small groups of SW's continued to fly by until noon.
Evening Watch:
At 5P a tornado of Swainson's Hawks arrived from the east. The SW's could be seen from ground level to very high. They spread out and filled the eastern sky. Counting was very difficult. Counts from 125-200 were made. The SW's settled into Tamarisks and on the ground far to the east near the potato fields. Above are shots taken this evening. Once again the potato fields have attracted the SW's.
The water being sprayed on the fields below has a mix of chemicals. We believe the attraction may be a number of insects killed by spraying. This concerns us. Additionally over 75 Turkey Vultures were sighted near the date farm. Some Swainson's are also roosting at the date farm.
Prediction:
The windy conditions should end tonight. Tomorrow a light wind is predicted. At least 150 and perhaps over 200 Swainson's are located in the potato fields east of Borrego Valley Road. More SW's are at the date farm. The TV's are also at the date farm. The hawks will likely kettle up around 8:30-9:30A so don't be late. You might want to check in at the count site on DiGiorgio to find out the best place to view the hawks.
A male Kestrel with a shovel nosed snake. Should I share it?
courtesy of Chris Schwarz
Sure-have a bite-Female Kestrel with Shovel nosed Snake
Courtesy of Chris Schwarz
Migration Today: 22 March 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-155
Turkey Vultures-95
Red-tailed Hawks-3
Discussion:
Weather was windy, cold (low 50's-that's cold for the desert), partly cloudy. A very active morning from 8A on. First lift-off at 7:45A from the date farm. Several TV's took off plus 2 SW's. Several mixed kettles formed over the date farm and Roadrunner Club. Most of the raptors headed west to Tubb Canyon. By the end of the first hour 133 SW's and 63 TV's were counted The rest of the Swainson's and TV's moved through in small groups. At 10A hawks were moving above Desert Garden in Coyote Canyon. Beyond the raptors a highlight included 4 White-faced Ibis.
Above is a nice sequence of Kestrels taken by Chris Schwarz
Evening Watch:
At 5P at least 115 Swainson's Hawks were observed coming in to land to the far east of the evening site. It appears that the majority of these hawks settled into fields and Tamarisks just off of Henderson Road and east of the potato fields. At least 9 TV's were spotted near the date farm.
Prediction:
Wind hopefully will be light tomorrow. We expect at least 115 Swainson's to migrate. Check in at the watch site on DiGiorgio Rd to find out where the Swainson's finally settled in. Most likely the SW's will kettle up near Henderson Rd and about 2 miles east of Borrego Valley Rd.
Early AM Swainson's Hawks on a Mesquite Dune, 3/20/11
First Kettle of Swainson's Hawks forming, 3/20/11
Swainson's Hawks beginning to stream out of a kettle, 3/20/11
Migration Sunday 3/20/11
Swainson's Hawks-71
Turkey Vultures-9
Northern Harriers-3
Discussion:
Today, most of the Swainson's we observed last night in the date farm, moved east to the Mesquite Dunes. Pictured below are 4 of the SW's. It was a cool overcast day with slight breezes. Lift off at 9A after a false start. Some SW's started to kettle and then went down into Tamarisk Trees. By 9:30A 71 Swainson's moved through Coyote Canyon. Reports from Fish Creek and Hawk Canyon of a few hundred Swainson's filtered in during the day. We have not seen these SW's in Borrego Valley.Below is a shot of the SW's kettling up and then beginning to stream. The best time to count is when the hawks begin to stream out of the kettle (see last shot below). The hawks stop spinning and spread out searching for another bubble of warm air (thermal).
Evening Watch Sunday 3/20/11:
We never saw the Swainson's Hawks reported from 2 locations east of Borrego Valley. Approximately 12 Swainson's and 19 TV's were counted this evening. We are not certain of the roosting site for the SW's. Some of the TV's are roosting at the Roadrunner Club.
Prediction:
It will rain this evening through the early morning hours tomorrow. We anticipate clearing by mid-morning tomorrow. This may bring in the missing Swainson's in the area. Tuesday looks like a very promising hawk day.
Migration Saturday 3/19/11
Swainson's Hawks-156
Turkey Vultures-75
Discussion:
The SW's first lift-off was at 9:10A of 4 birds, quickly followed by a group of 85. Most from the date farm. They kettled up and flew up and out in about 15 minutes to the west/northwest. The rest trickled out during the next hour, and some came in from the SE about an hour later. Turkey Vultures moved through in small groups with a late kettle of 26. All appeared to be moving west then northwest. We have had several late kettles, indicating a roost site about an hour southeast of the watch.
Turkey Vultures, Waiting for the heat of the day
Swainson's Hawks, Getting ready to leave the valley
Migration Yesterday-3/17/2011
Swainson's Hawks-152
Turkey Vultures-24
Migration Today-3/18/2011
Swainson's Hawks-26
Turkey Vultures-20
Ferruginous Hawk-1
Discussion: Thursday we had several kettles forming to the east. At one point over 100 SW's were in the air at once. Today (Friday) we had one nice kettle of Swainson's plus a few stragglers. Both days had a handful of TV's. A Ferruginous was spotted migrating as well.
Evening Watch: An eventful evening with a large group of Swainson's spotted to the north. They appeared to descend into the Ellis Farm. It is possible that this same group got up and worked their way west where they landed in a row of dead Tamarisks. At 6:45P they took off and landed in the date farm. A high count of 87 is probably an under estimate. Twenty-five Turkey Vultures were counted as well, coming to roost at the date farm.
Prediction: Light winds are predicted for tomorrow AM. Anywhere from the 87 to 150 Swainson's Hawks should kettle up tomorrow. You might want to check in at the day watch on DiGiorgio to find out where best to spot the hawks. The SW's will probably ring up near Borrego Valley Road around 8-9A.
Light Swainson's Hawk
Courtesy of Don Endicott
Migration February 15 through March 16
Swainson's Hawks-1,543
Turkey Vultures-795
Red-tailed Hawks-9
Northern Harriers-3
Ferruginous Hawk-1
Discussion
The numbers above are not official. The season now begins to heat up (weather and hawks). Swainson's Hawks should be flying in with regularity for the next 3 weeks. The Hawk-a-thon begins Saturday March 19 through March 28. Because the park is a non-profit organization we had to remove the prize for the best guess. All other aspects of the hawk-a-thon are in order (check my post March 10). I will be giving a hawktalk at the park visitors center Saturday March 19 and March 26 at 3P. Following the talks (approximately 5:30P) we will meet at the evening site on Borrego Valley Rd, 1.7 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive to watch incoming hawks and vultures.
Evening Watch
At least 100 Swainson's Hawks have descended into the valley. Some are roosting at Ellis Farm, the Date Farm and the potato fields.
Prediction Tomorrow (March 17) should provide some good looks at migrating Swainson's Hawks. Migration will probably begin between 8:30A and 9:30A. Check with the count site for directions to best viewing areas. The count site is on DiGiorgio Rd. 2.8 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive.
Red-Tailed Hawk
Migration Today: March 13, 2011
Swainson's Hawks-83
Turkey Vultures-21
Red-tailed Hawk=1
Discussion: A warm day with a few high clouds and light breezes. Lift-off from Ellis Farm and the Date Farm at 9:05A daylight savings time. SW's joined in several kettles above Ellis and moved higher and north. Additional SW's flew from the Date Farm and a row of Tamarisks far to the east to create a large kettle of aerial feeding hawks. Observations from the evening site were good today. Eventually most of the SW's moved north and then northwest along Coyote Mountain before departing the valley.
Above is a photo of a migrating Red-tailed Hawk that left the valley with several SW's today. We had a visit from LuAnn Thompson and the vehicle she uses to download exciting environmental projects for PORTS. She will soon begin to develop a hawk migration project focusing on the migration of Swainson's Hawks. We are well on our way to finance this project.
Evening Watch: At 5:30P, 27 Swainson's Hawks were detected to the north. They settled down near the potato farm north of the evening watch.
Prediction: Unless more Swainson's sneak in after the sun set we expect 27 or more SW's to kettle up in light winds between 9-9:30A tomorrow. It is difficult to predict the direction of flight.
Size comparison: Turkey Vultures and a Swainson's Hawk, 3/12/2011
Migration Today: 12 March 2011
Swainson's Hawks-84
Turkey Vultures-25
Discussion: By 8:35A on a sunny day with calm winds, Swainson's Hawks began to kettle up from the date farm. A few SW's came up from Ellis Farm as well. Today the hawks moved west and north toward Coyote Canyon. At 9:30A another kettle was observed to the south. This group probable roosted 10-15 miles south of the watch. Below is a shot (not the best-new camera) to show the size difference between a Swainson's Hawk and Turkey Vultures. SW's wingspan ranges from 47-54 inches. Turkey Vultures wingspan range is 63-71 inches. The wing shape of SW's is more pointed than the TV's. The obvious black and white pattern of the TV's differs from the Swainson's.
On Saturday March 19 and March 26, I will be giving a hawktawk at the Park visitors center at 3PM. Historically our best migration numbers occur between March 20 and March 30.
Evening Watch: A pleasant evening (t-shirt weather). At 4:30P we watched around 35 Swainson's drop into a line of Tamarisk trees east of the potato fields. At 5:15P a group of 15 SW's and 18 TV's drifted into the date farm. at 5:30P until 6PM a steady line of SW's moved from the east at eye level, finally perching in the Eucalyptus trees at the date farm. These are probably the SW's we observed to the east. Tomorrow evening we will meet an hour later than usual. Instead of 4:30P, we will meet at 5:30P.
Prediction: Light winds are predicted for tomorrow. Remember there is a time change (spring ahead-fall behind). The hawks remain on standard time. So, if they depart at 8:30A standard time, they will depart at 9:30A new daylight savings time. You can sleep in for the next several days, until the AM light increases. We expect 50-60 Swainson's and some TV's to kettle up around 9:15A-9:45A daylight savings time. The evening dune on Borrego Valley Road might be the spot to be.
Last Swainson's of the evening coming in to roost, 3/11/2011
Migration Today: 11 March 2011
Swainson's Hawks-125
Turkey Vultures-56
Discussion: At 7:45A 15 Swainson's kettled up then settled down again. SW's began to kettle up from the date farm at 8:30A and aerial feed. By 9A over 60 Swainson's moved over the potato fields near Borrego Valley Rd. New kettles formed behind the date farm (Springs RV park) and moved north. by 9:30A several TV's joined the SW's as they began to stream north and northwest.
A question came up today concerning the Hawk-a-thon. Can you donate a sum directly instead of selecting a day and a sum per hawk Yes, you can donate any amount following the directions I e-mailed March 10. If you want to donate based on raptors counted, today would be a good example. If you elected to donate 10 cents per hawk counted, then your total for today would be .10x181 or $18.10.
Evening Watch: A nice evening with incoming Swainson's very high. We counted 45 in one kettle. Estimates range from 45 to 80 roosting at the date farm. Below is a photo of the last SW coming to roost at 6P. Eight TV's joined the SW's in the back of the date farm.
Prediction: We have conflicting wind reports for tomorrow. Either we will have light wind (preferable) or strong gusty wind (early AM migration). We expect anywhere from 45-80 or more Swainson's and 8 or more TV's to migrate. If it is windy all the raptors will migrate very early (7A or earlier). If the wind is light or calm, the raptors will kettle up around 8:30A. Remember Sunday the time will change to daylight savings. Best viewing spots are the evening site on Borrego Valley Road or the day watch site on DiGiorgio.
Kettle of 15 Swainson's Hawks, 3/10/2011
courtesy of Richard Cook
Swainson's Hawk at night mound, 3/10/2011
Courtesy of Richard Cook
Migration Today: 10 March 2011
Swainson's Hawks-48
Turkey Vultures-6
Discussion:
On a sunny warm day (70's-83) lift-off from the Date Farm took place at 8:30A.
The above photo's were taken on Borrego Valley Road. Twenty-eight SW's kettled
up in two groups followed by a kettle 15 that showed up at 9:30A. The TV's
moved out as singles and two's. All raptors moved through Coyote Canyon. Very
little aerial feeding took place before departure. As yet there are no caterpillars,
only flying ants.
Evening Watch:
The first wave of Swainson's flew in at 4:30P today and landed in the date
farm. At 5:30 another wave flew in and landed along a tree line near the date
farm on private property. We counted anywhere from 40-60 in each wave. We
believe that there are anywhere from 80-120 or more Swainson's and 20 TV's
in the vicinity of the date farm.
Prediction:
Light wind is predicted for tomorrow. The SW's and TV's should begin to kettle
up around 8:30A. A good place to view the hawks is from DiGiorgio Rd just
south of Big Horn. This is just past the Springs RV park on DiGiorgio. Take
Palm Canyon Drive to DiGiorgio from town.
Prairie Falcon,
Hawk Canyon, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, 3/5/2011
Migration Today: 6 March 2011
Swainson's Hawk-8
Turkey Vulture-7
Northern Harrier-2
Discussion: The SW's came up from Ellis Farm and stayed far to the east. The TV's lifted-off from the date farm. Shown above is a nice Prairie Falcon that spent some time at Hawk Canyon. This is the same area where a Zone-tailed Hawk was seen a few weeks ago.
I have had inquires concerning the whereabouts of Prairie Falcons. Hawk Canyon and a cliff across from Marker 5 on the Palm Canyon Trail have nesting Prairies. Marker 5 is a short 10-minute walk from the parking area for Palm Canyon. I have had several questions about flowers at this time of year. The Desert 5-spots may be rare but there are hundreds in Hawk Canyon, along with some Ghost Flowers. See below.
Hawk Canyon is off of 78 about 1.1 miles east of the Texas Dip turn-off (Borrego Springs Rd). Buttes Pass Rd is the turnoff onto a gravel Rd. Now is the time to come out to see the wildflowers. They will disappear quickly this year. The wind tomorrow won't help.
Evening Watch: This evening we had Swainson's Hawks flying in from several directions. We estimate that 40-60 SW's are roosting at the date farm and Ellis Farm. At least 17 TV's flew into the date farm. Hawks were still on the move at 6PM. Dianne Walker has been in touch with us from Imperial Dam near Yuma. Twice in the past few days she has observed groups of SW's at the dam in late morning. Today she observed 100+ Swainson's. Our site is around 100 miles distant from Yuma. If the hawks she observed are on their way to the Sacramento area, they could pass through Borrego Valley.
Prediction: Swainson's Hawks love wind. The next few days should bring in a wave of birds. However, tomorrow the wind will get the birds up very early. Tomorrow evening could be very interesting.
Desert Five-Spot
Light Morph Swainson's Hawk
Courtesy of Judy Davis, 3/3/2011
Swainson's Hawk Aerial feeding on flying ants
Courtesy of Judy Davis, 3/3/2011
A portion of 215 Swainson's feeding on flying ants in the fields
Hal Cohen, 3/3/2011
3 March 2011
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-662
Turkey Vultures-225
Northern Harrier-1
Red-Shouldered Hawk-1
Discussion: A remarkable day for viewing and counting. At 8A Swainson's Hawks began to lift-off from De Anza Country Club. A continuous stream of hawks moved east for 45 minutes. At least 200 SW's began aerial feeding on flying ants. At least 215 were counted at Big Horn and DiGiorgio Rd on the ground, feeding on ants. Additionally at least 225 Swainson's Hawks were observed near Casa del Zorro to the south. Hawks were observed in all directions before they began to move northwest. More than 500 were counted flying high over the watch site. Turkey Vultures moved out in small groups.
Evening Watch: Twenty Swainson's Hawks were observed near the date farm. At least 16 are roosting at the farm. Only 1 TV was counted.
Prediction: Unless there are Swainson's and Vultures further west of the date farm, only 20 plus hawks will migrate tomorrow. If the winds are light the hawks will lift-off between 8 and 9A.
Streaming Swainson's Hawks at 5PM 3/2/2011
Part of a large kettle above De Anza Country Club just after 5P below descending
into Eucalyptus trees. 3/2/2011
HAWK ALERT
2 March 2011
At 3:30P today I received a call to let me know that over 100 TV's were kettling
close to my home. I took photo's and another kettle formed to the east.
At least 225 TV's flew over and then Swainson's Hawks began to stream past. We chased the huge kettles through the valley. It appears that the majority of SW's and TV's have put down in De Anza Country Club. Shown above are streaming Swainson's and the heart of a late kettle. We counted over 400 Swainson's and over 200 TV's. Estimates range from 425 SW's to 500 and 200-225 TV's.
For best viewing take Borrego Springs Road from Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs to Henderson Rd. At this intersection one of the leaders will be present. If we have no wind in the morning both the SW's and TV's will begin to kettle up between 8 and 9A. Winds are predicted to be light. If it gets windy, the birds will fly early.
A dark Swainson's Hawk
on an old creosote stem in the grape fields, Feb 26, 2011
Migration Saturday 26 February 2011:
Swainson's Hawks-19
Turkey Vultures-37
Discussion: The day began with rain, drizzle and then clearing slowly. It was very cold, in the 40's. At 11:30A Swainson's hawks began to kettle up. Scanning the western sky we picked up a large mixed kettle of Turkey Vultures and Swainson's Hawks. Thirty-seven TV's and 13 Swainson's Hawks were counted in the kettle. At 8A tomorrow I will lead a group from the Visitors center to watch hawks. We will drive to the day site and areas where the hawks are roosting.
Evening Watch: Above is a photo taken this evening in an old grape graveyard. Most of the fallow fields near the hawkwatch were once cultivated for table grapes. The cross on the left and right are redwood grape stakes from the 1950's and 60's. The white structure in the background is an old standpipe to regulate water-flow. The brown vegetation is last year's Sahara Mustard (an invasive that will inhibit our wonderful native flowers). Several SW's perched in the fields and on telephone poles this evening. We counted at least 24 SW's. Only 1 TV was observed at the Roadrunner Club.
Prediction: Clearing weather and hopefully light wind tomorrow should produce some nice Swainson's activity. Borrego Valley Rd fields, the date farm and Ellis farm all have Swainson's. We estimate at least 24 hawks.
Swainson's Hawk, HM Lim
Migration Thursday Feb 24:
Turkey Vultures-23
Swainson's Hawks-36
Migration Feb 19-23:
Turkey Vultures-67
Swainson's Hawks-76
Discussion: During the period Feb 19-23 migration slowed down. The weather is now unsettled and will probably bring in more Swainson's Hawks. A rain period is predicted for Friday evening through Saturday Feb 26. Look for migration to pick up by Sunday the 27th. Migration today began at 7A. Sixteen Swainson's Hawks kettled up and out of the valley very quickly. It was windy at the beginning of the watch. Whenever we have winds exceeding 10mph, the hawks will leave early. From 8A-11A groups of 2-4 SW's began to fly over the watch.
Remember, you can access our hawk data at Hawkcount.org. This is done on a daily basis. Hit monthly summaries and scroll down to Borrego Valley. So if we don't report for a day or two you can find out what is happening. If we get a large concentration of hawks roosting in town we will get an e-mail alert out that evening. Often folks from San Diego and the surrounding region come the next morning to intercept the hawks as they continue their migration. We usually know where the hawks are roosting and can send watchers to an intersecting location for good views.
Evening Watch: A very cold and windy evening. Seventeen TV's and 6 Swainson's Hawks are roosting in the date farm and perhaps at the Roadrunner Club.
Prediction: It will remain windy tonight and possibly into tomorrow. If the wind continues the raptors will take off at 7A or earlier. Rain tomorrow night through Saturday should make for some interesting migration Sunday and Monday.
Sharp-Shinned Hawk, Susan Nishio
Saturday February 19
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-25
Turkey Vultures-26
Discussion:
The day watch is located on DiGiorgio Rd, 2.8 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive.
We had more than an inch of rain last night through this morning. By 9A the
sky began to clear as very large cumulus clouds drifted over the watch site.
We tracked down the roosting TV's a few miles from the site. By 9:30A the
TV's began to kettle up and move NW. Swainson's Hawks began to kettle up from
the date farm and unknown sites. All of the hawks moved through Coyote Canyon.
The juvenile sharpie below has visited the count site for the past two days.
Remember, the morning watch begins at 8A (earlier if windy) and continues to 11A. I've been asked a question about the few hours we have established. Our valley is a roosting and feeding area for migrating Swainson's Hawks. We rarely see SW's migrating after 11. On windy days during the peak of the season we often stay at the watch longer. By 4P Swainson's Hawks are beginning to look for roost sites. So Swainson's coming into the valley after 4P are not counted as they will move about until a suitable roost site is selected. Turkey Vultures behave in a similar fashion. However, the following morning, Turkey Vultures will usually kettle up and migrate out of the valley. If flying ants and/or caterpillars are available, Swainson's Hawk may remain in the valley for an hour or two feeding. By 10A most of the SW's will migrate. Most of our hawks move out by 9:30A. So when visiting the hawkwatch, come early. On windy days we have had migration at first light.
Evening Watch:
The evening watch is located on Borrego Valley Rd. 1.8 miles north of Palm
Canyon Drive. We meet 1 hour before sunset every evening. Only 8 TV's came
in to roost at Casa Del Zorro. They arrived in the rain. The abandoned resort
is the first possible roosting area south of town. We will check it out early
tomorrow.
Prediction:
It is raining as I write this report. Tomorrow should be partly sunny with
light wind in the morning. Past data suggests that the period Feb 20-25 could
produce our first good Swainson's migration. In the past, unsettled weather
(rain, wind and some clouds) produces a good migration. Also, we did have
some flying ant activity this afternoon. I suspect that aerial feeding by
Swainson's is a possibility tomorrow.
Zone-tailed Hawk Hawk Canyon near Borrego Springs 2/14/2011, Steve Ball
Turkey Vulture 2/17/2011 at the hawk count site Borrego Springs, Susan Nishio
Friday February 18
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-3
Thursday February 17
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-14
TV's-19
Wednesday February 16
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks-13
TV's-16 Migration
Discussion: The 13 SW's observed Wednesday began aerial feeding on ants by 7:30A. They left the valley at 9:30A. Thursday was cooler with no apparent ant activity. All 14 SW's kettled up at 8:30A from the date farm and migrated Northwest through Coyote Canyon. Turkey Vultures moved out of the valley in small groups. On Friday 3 Swainson's migrated out of the valley.
It is now raining in the valley (3P-Friday). It is possible that the rain will continue throughout Saturday. Often when fronts move in, migration picks up. Tomorrow could be productive in between rain squalls.
We continue to search for a Zone-tailed Hawk (pictured above, courtesy of Steve Ball) that was observed near Hawk Canyon (solo) Monday just south of Borrego Springs and possibly again on Tuesday flying with Swainson's Hawks. Every kettle of TV's is checked for a ZT as well.
Steve Ball and Susan Nishio provided us with wonderful photos of the Zone-tailed Hawk and TV. Although ZT's resemble Turkey Vultures, it is inconclusive that TV's are used as decoys so that Zone-tails can capture live prey.
There will be no further reports until the next big migration wave. You can access our counts almost daily at Hawkcount.org. Check monthlies and scroll down to Borrego Valley.
Part of a kettle of Turkey Vultures Wed 2/16, 2011 Borrego Springs
12 Swainson's Hawks, part of a group of 25 above the potato field
February 15, 2011
Migration Today:
Swainson's Hawks 51
Turkey Vultures 4
Discussion: A surprise for our first official count day. Flying ants were observed at 7:30A and continued all morning. Swainson's Hawks began to lift-off from the date farm at 8AM. Aerial feeding activity on flying ants continued until 11AM. Kettles as big as 25 appeared in the east. Clouds helped observation throughout the morning. Small kettles of SW's arrived in the area from the east feeding as they made their way northwest. Although there was little wind, the flying ants stimulated early flight.
Evening Watch: At least 8 Swainson's Hawks were observed above the date farm this evening. Six Turkey Vultures (TV's) flew in at 5:15P. Another 10 TV's were found at the Roadrunner Club.
Prediction: Strong early wind will get the 16 TV's and 8 Swainson's up early tomorrow. Rain is possible. The sky could be cloudy all day. Unsettled weather tomorrow and again on the weekend could bring in more Swainson's Hawks.
A close Swainson's Hawk, evening of 2/15/2011
Hello from Borrego Springs California:
Sunday January 30 – Below are photos taken today. The hawk-hill is filled with flowers. Besides the hated Sahara Mustard, sand verbena, popcorn flower, and lupine are in abundance. We will groom the hill and add some sand in the coming weeks.
Although the light was not good for hawk photo's, below are shots of a Swainson's Hawk ...
and a Turkey Vulture ...
Fifteen TV's (Turkey Vultures) and 8 SW's (Swainson's Hawks) flew in with the wind to roost at Ellis Farms (Borrego Valley Rd and Henderson Rd) at 4PM. This is a very early migration date. Tomorrow they will depart early if windy or around 9:30A if it is calm.
At this time, if you would like me to delete you from the hawk list, let me know. We have over 400 on the list. Also, if you know anyone that wants to be on the list, please forward this message and let them know they should send me their e-mail address. The official count begins February 15 and ends April 15. I will send information concerning location of the evening and day site in the coming weeks.
Good Hawkwatching,
Hal
Hello Hawkwatchers:
While the hawkwatch officially starts February 15, the hawks don't watch the calendar.
During the past year several folks have shown interest in volunteering to help count the hawks. Now is the time to set up a day or days of the week to join the watch.
You do not have to be an experienced hawkwatcher to help (we need eyes). As a volunteer, you would get on the job training with the daily leader. So please let me know of your interest in helping – Raptorhal@cableusa.com.
We have leaders present at the watch 7 days a week 8A-11A. We also monitor incoming hawks every evening beginning one hour before sunset.
Of course, you do not have to volunteer to watch the migration. Join us anytime of the season, February 15-April 15. The peak migration occurs during the last 2 weeks of March.
The day site is located 2.8 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive on DiGiorgio Rd. The evening site is located 1.5 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive on Borrego Valley Rd.
Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association
P O BOX 310 ( 652 Palm Canyon Drive) Borrego Springs, CA 92004-0310
Office 760-767-3052 | Desert Store & Nature Center 760-767-3098 | FAX 760-767-3099