Hawkwatch - Sunday, October 8, 2017

Over the past three days we've tallied 206 Peregrine Falcons migrating past the Cape May Hawkwatch. Today was another day of south winds, yet the Peregrine Falcons persisted! Right now we're in peak time for these beautiful and fast-flying birds. Some were high while most of them were low. Their aerodynamic structure allows them to zip through headwinds smoothly like a knife through butter.

On a side note, the 20th stray balloon of the fall was documented today. Please do not release balloons. They pollute the environment and are a hazard to wildlife.

We did the annual Cape May Big Sit today and tallied 85 species from the hawkwatch, including raptors. The first and last bird of the day were Peregrine Falcons. Even during the slower times, the Peregrine Falcons put on quite the show. Hope to see you soon at the hawkwatch!

Peregrine Falcon migrating over Cape May at sunrise.

Juvenile Peregrine Falcon.

Juvenile Peregrine Falcon.

Adult Peregrine Falcon.
Note the profile, long "hands" and sharp angles to this bird's contour at a distance.

Peregrine Falcon migrating over a kite today

Peregrine Falcon looking for some food-on-the-go.

Cope's Gray Tree Frog nestled in a camouflaged fashion on the hawkwatch platform.

Bobert the Northern Bobwhite made many appearances today! Here he is taking a "dust bath" in the grass.

Osprey with a recently-caught meal!

Today's bird totals. Click on the image for a larger view.