Today’s hawkwatch was started with a gorgeous sunrise over
bunker pond. The skies filled with intertwined streaks of pearly pinks,
oranges, and lavender blue. The recently-arrived north winds brought cool air
and many birds to come on this opening day.
Shortly after sunrise, an immature Bald Eagle plowed through
the air, showing a direct intent to migrate. Following this bird came several
American Kestrels. The flow of Bobolinks calling high overhead mingled with the
chatter of rivers of migrating terns. A Common Nighthawk flew by. Then another.
The rich array of raptors and non-raptors is one of the most impressive
features of the Cape May Hawkwatch. There is always something going on, and
this season started out with a bang. We even had a rare-for-the-area
White-winged Dove show up, found by naturalist Andrew Dreelin.
North winds continued throughout the day, bringing early
movements of Osprey and even a few Broad-winged Hawks! The hawkwatching
platform was packed with people enjoying the spectacle of bird migration.
I’m looking forward to scanning the skies with you this
fall. Hope to see you soon at the Cape May Hawkwatch in the months to come!
Erik
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| White-winged Dove, found by naturalist Andrew Dreelin. |
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| A Common Nighthawk showing off its beautiful and intricate plumage. |
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| And, of course, a raptor! This immature Cooper's Hawk buzzed right by at eye level. |
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