Spring Migration Lift-off from Perry County TN

Jimmy and I had not had a vacation in years, so this year we made a commitment to take one during spring migration, but to go to Dauphin Island in hopes of seeing a fallout, or at least the arrivals of warblers etc. coming across the Gulf.  We did and had a wonderful time, leaving with a total count of 129 species seen while we were there.  Due to heavy rains and a short 4 day stay, we were quite pleased with that total. 

While there, we ran into our Hawk watching regulars, Chuck and Lola Estes,  and enjoyed sharing some time at the Shell Mounds and also on the Pier. Having scopes along helped us find elusive Least Bittern hiding among the grasses.  Some good memories there.  And they helped us tout the Hawk Watch among many new birding friends. LOL

So, as a result, and because I came home to a severe sinus/bronchial infection, that I had been brooding for about a month, we didn't get up to the Hawk Watch even one day, while we were home.  With regrets ---- because the reports of returning Broad-wings have been phenomenal this year. 

This is a report sent in by Rueben Stohl, noting that they saw lift-offs of Broadies, and Sharpies in the morning from the mountain treetops north east of us.  With his permission we are sharing his report:

" From: Ruben Stoll <birdchaserrws@gmail.com>
To: tn-bird@freelists.org
Sent: Fri, 22 Apr 2016 16:59:08 -0000 (UTC)
Subject: [TN-Bird] Perry County Raptor Migration

April 22nd, 2016
White-oak Ridge Raptor Lookout and adjacent areas, Perry County TN

  Perfect weather for viewing migrating Hawks, with overnight grounded
birds seen lifting off in large numbers between 9 and 10 a.m., and most
gaining altitude until they literally disappeared in the clouds. Most of
the birds were Broad-winged Hawks, with unusual numbers of Sharp-shinned
Hawk seen as well.

Black Vulture 10
Turkey Vulture 35
Osprey 2
Sharp-shinned Hawk 5
Cooper's Hawk 1
Bald Eagle 1
Red-shouldered Hawk 4
Broad-winged Hawk 317
Red-tailed Hawk 6
Mississippi Kite, 1 seen by AlanTroyer, missed by me because I was looking
the wrong direction counting Broad-winged Hawks.

  Also 22 warbler species along Cane Creek, highlights being Chestnut-sided
(FOS), 5 Cerulean, Blackburnian, and Blackpoll.

  Other FOS include Great Crested Flycatcher and Eastern Pewee.

Ruben Stoll, Centerville TN"

Note there was at least one Kite seen. Jimmy and I believed we saw a Mississippi Kite this past week, but were traveling, and unable to stop and confirm, but feel secure since it's entirely possible now.

So what does all this mean?

It is not too late to
KEEP LOOKING UP!!!!!!

Good birding to you,

Jimmy and Cynthia Wilkerson

Spring Migration 2016 is On

I saw my first Broad-wing Hawk of the Season Saturday morning, April 2, while driving along Hwy 8 W. between Cagle and Collins River.  It was scooting along a western ridge just above the treetops.  That early, it was probably hunting.  There was a beautiful morning light that accentuated the dark outline on the light under-wing, as I looked up at it passing over us.. When I first noticed it, I immediately thought, "that looks like a Broad-wing playing around." Then I realized, I should be certain so I could count it for the FOY- First of the Year 2016.  So glad I checked it out.  No Binocs on this one. Close and clear. Reports welcome.  Stop by the facebook page and let us know what you are seeing.
Soddy Mountain Hawk Watch - Facebook

We are seeking reports of Nesting Broad-wings or pairs you observe.  Please report the general area, or county.  We don't want to disturb nesting pairs.  But it will be fun knowing about those staying in our area for nesting. 

For anyone who might not have heard their call, be aware of it, because they often call to one another during nesting season.  It is described as a high pitched Pit-eeeeeeeee. It is very distinctly a sound you wouldn't associate with another bird.

However, I have heard a Blue Jay mimic the call and do an excellent job of it.  In fact, Jays are so good, that it is obvious that their job on earth is to warn young birds of hawk calls.  I have heard people complain that Bue Jays are mean to feeder birds because they land among them abruptly and scare everything away.  Well, what most people might never think of, is that if there wasn't a bird out there mimicking hawks that also didn't eat the birds, little ones might never learn of the danger hawks pose. Whether, Jays actually know their purpose, they provide a service to the bird world that is necessary.  (Just an aside, LOL)

This is a great time, in spring, to be birding by ear- by learning and knowing their calls.  Become familiar with the calls of Hawks and you will notice nesting pairs everywhere! The most vocal will be the Red-shouldered of course, and they have been in the area for over a month now.  Plenty of time to have some active nesting pairs.

So, let me make sure you understand, we would love to hear any reports of hawk nests in our expanded area. Hamilton and surrounding counties. In fact of any raptors.  If you are looking for a fun and valuable "something to do" especially with kids, this could be it.

Looking forward to reports.

Have a great birding spring! &
Keep Looking UP!!!

Jimmy and Cynthia Wilkerson