This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




We had only moderate visibility today, and we saw only 82 Broad-winged ­
mostly alone or in small groups. We did have our first 3 Peregrine Falcons
of the season, along with 5 Bald Eagles in the morning, and two American
Kestrels. We had great participation to day. Much thanks to all who took
part.

Harvey's Knob watch site near Roanoke tallied 5193 Broad-winged yesterday
and 757 today. Will tomorrow be a good day here?

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




We had only moderate visibility today, and we saw only 82 Broad-winged ­
mostly alone or in small groups. We did have our first 3 Peregrine Falcons
of the season, along with 5 Bald Eagles in the morning, and two American
Kestrels. We had great participation to day. Much thanks to all who took
part.

Harvey's Knob watch site near Roanoke tallied 5193 Broad-winged yesterday
and 757 today. Will tomorrow be a good day here?

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




Tally today: 83 Broad-winged, 1 Bald Eagle (mature), 2 Osprey, 3 Peregrine,
1 Sharp-shinned and a couple of distant accipiters. Difficult conditions for
the first half of the day, with a lot of haze horizontally and high blue sky
above. At 1 pm, some cumulus clouds gave us a chance to see some birds.

Another good turnout of observers. Thanks to all: Diane Godfrey, George
Wheaton, Ken Hardin, Scott Depue, Carol Cunningham, Jean Chamberlain, Sven
Halling.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




We had only moderate visibility today, and we saw only 82 Broad-winged ­
mostly alone or in small groups. We did have our first 3 Peregrine Falcons
of the season, along with 5 Bald Eagles in the morning, and two American
Kestrels. We had great participation to day. Much thanks to all who took
part.

Harvey's Knob watch site near Roanoke tallied 5193 Broad-winged yesterday
and 757 today. Will tomorrow be a good day here?

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




Tally today: 83 Broad-winged, 1 Bald Eagle (mature), 2 Osprey, 3 Peregrine,
1 Sharp-shinned and a couple of distant accipiters. Difficult conditions for
the first half of the day, with a lot of haze horizontally and high blue sky
above. At 1 pm, some cumulus clouds gave us a chance to see some birds.

Another good turnout of observers. Thanks to all: Diane Godfrey, George
Wheaton, Ken Hardin, Scott Depue, Carol Cunningham, Jean Chamberlain, Sven
Halling.

Phil Dickinson




After a miserable day of hawk watching on Saturday with only 22 Broad-winged
and a few others, a front came through bringing drier air, cloudless skies,
winds from the north and visibility of 60km. The result was our best day at
Pilot Mountain since 9/26/06, with 1735 Broad-winged Hawks and a total of
1759 migrating birds. Mike Tove, Scott Depue and I tallied 532 Broad-winged
between 9 and 11 am, and then observers saw 1034 Broad-winged between 3 and
6 pm. In between during the heat of the day, birds were flying over at the
limits of our binocular range, so who knows how many more passed by unseen.
We also had 4 Osprey, 3 Bald Eagle, 1 Northern Harrier, 4 American Kestrel
and a few accipiters. Also, hundreds of Monarch butterflies.

Phil Dickinson

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




We had only moderate visibility today, and we saw only 82 Broad-winged ­
mostly alone or in small groups. We did have our first 3 Peregrine Falcons
of the season, along with 5 Bald Eagles in the morning, and two American
Kestrels. We had great participation to day. Much thanks to all who took
part.

Harvey's Knob watch site near Roanoke tallied 5193 Broad-winged yesterday
and 757 today. Will tomorrow be a good day here?

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




Tally today: 83 Broad-winged, 1 Bald Eagle (mature), 2 Osprey, 3 Peregrine,
1 Sharp-shinned and a couple of distant accipiters. Difficult conditions for
the first half of the day, with a lot of haze horizontally and high blue sky
above. At 1 pm, some cumulus clouds gave us a chance to see some birds.

Another good turnout of observers. Thanks to all: Diane Godfrey, George
Wheaton, Ken Hardin, Scott Depue, Carol Cunningham, Jean Chamberlain, Sven
Halling.

Phil Dickinson




After a miserable day of hawk watching on Saturday with only 22 Broad-winged
and a few others, a front came through bringing drier air, cloudless skies,
winds from the north and visibility of 60km. The result was our best day at
Pilot Mountain since 9/26/06, with 1735 Broad-winged Hawks and a total of
1759 migrating birds. Mike Tove, Scott Depue and I tallied 532 Broad-winged
between 9 and 11 am, and then observers saw 1034 Broad-winged between 3 and
6 pm. In between during the heat of the day, birds were flying over at the
limits of our binocular range, so who knows how many more passed by unseen.
We also had 4 Osprey, 3 Bald Eagle, 1 Northern Harrier, 4 American Kestrel
and a few accipiters. Also, hundreds of Monarch butterflies.

Phil Dickinson




Looking at results north of us for last weekend, we could predict that today
probably would be a fairly slow day and it was, with only 50 Broad-winged, 2
Osprey, and 2 Cooper's. Moreover, lateral haze limited visibility toward the
ridge to about 30-35 km. Things could get better, as Rockfish Gap near
Lexington, VA has reported more than 2700 Broad-winged during the past two
days ­ if not tomorrow perhaps Friday if we get that expected cold front
moving through tomorrow. Even if we do not get another bird, though, we
already have passed last year's Broad-winged total after our big day this
past Sunday. And, we are up to 22 Osprey, 18 Bald Eagle and 9 Peregrine
Falcon.

Today, we were visited by Brian Bockhahn and his state park service class on
migrating hawks. Brian will be back with another group tomorrow.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




We had only moderate visibility today, and we saw only 82 Broad-winged ­
mostly alone or in small groups. We did have our first 3 Peregrine Falcons
of the season, along with 5 Bald Eagles in the morning, and two American
Kestrels. We had great participation to day. Much thanks to all who took
part.

Harvey's Knob watch site near Roanoke tallied 5193 Broad-winged yesterday
and 757 today. Will tomorrow be a good day here?

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




Tally today: 83 Broad-winged, 1 Bald Eagle (mature), 2 Osprey, 3 Peregrine,
1 Sharp-shinned and a couple of distant accipiters. Difficult conditions for
the first half of the day, with a lot of haze horizontally and high blue sky
above. At 1 pm, some cumulus clouds gave us a chance to see some birds.

Another good turnout of observers. Thanks to all: Diane Godfrey, George
Wheaton, Ken Hardin, Scott Depue, Carol Cunningham, Jean Chamberlain, Sven
Halling.

Phil Dickinson




After a miserable day of hawk watching on Saturday with only 22 Broad-winged
and a few others, a front came through bringing drier air, cloudless skies,
winds from the north and visibility of 60km. The result was our best day at
Pilot Mountain since 9/26/06, with 1735 Broad-winged Hawks and a total of
1759 migrating birds. Mike Tove, Scott Depue and I tallied 532 Broad-winged
between 9 and 11 am, and then observers saw 1034 Broad-winged between 3 and
6 pm. In between during the heat of the day, birds were flying over at the
limits of our binocular range, so who knows how many more passed by unseen.
We also had 4 Osprey, 3 Bald Eagle, 1 Northern Harrier, 4 American Kestrel
and a few accipiters. Also, hundreds of Monarch butterflies.

Phil Dickinson




Looking at results north of us for last weekend, we could predict that today
probably would be a fairly slow day and it was, with only 50 Broad-winged, 2
Osprey, and 2 Cooper's. Moreover, lateral haze limited visibility toward the
ridge to about 30-35 km. Things could get better, as Rockfish Gap near
Lexington, VA has reported more than 2700 Broad-winged during the past two
days ­ if not tomorrow perhaps Friday if we get that expected cold front
moving through tomorrow. Even if we do not get another bird, though, we
already have passed last year's Broad-winged total after our big day this
past Sunday. And, we are up to 22 Osprey, 18 Bald Eagle and 9 Peregrine
Falcon.

Today, we were visited by Brian Bockhahn and his state park service class on
migrating hawks. Brian will be back with another group tomorrow.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




With winds shifting around out of the NW, it was a pretty good afternoon of
hawk watching at Pilot Mountain. Our day's total was 318 Broad-winged Hawks,
including kettles of 52 and 61, 2 Osprey, 1 Bald Eagle, 1 Peregrine, and
some accipiters. Still lots of Monarchs coming through.

Since 9/12, we have had 2904 Broad-winged and over 3000 raptors. To our
north, Rockfish Gap near Lexington VA continues to roll up impressive
numbers with nearly 16,900 Broad-winged with many still streaming through.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem

This is my first call for observer volunteers for our annual Pilot Mountain
Hawk Watch, which will run from September 12-30 at Little Pinnacle.
Broad-winged hawks migrate along the Appalachian ridge and then continue
through Mexico on their way to Central and South America. Sometimes kettles,
or groups, of these birds can include hundreds of birds. We also see about a
dozen other species of raptor during our watch, including Bald Eagles,
Ospreys, and three species of falcon. You do not have to be an expert on
raptors, either. For less experienced birders, it is a great way to sharpen
your ID skills and learn about raptor behavior while watching alongside
veteran observers. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars, water, skin
protection and some patience.

Learn about the watch and the raptors at the Hawk Watch page on the Forsyth
Audubon website. To provide as much coverage as possible each day, we ask
you to commit to four-hour shifts (10-2, or 2-6). However, if that is not
possible, any bit of time will help. Just try to let me know in advance,
though, so we know what coverage we have or need, and so we can pair newer
observers with more experienced ones. A signup calendar is attached. Look
it over and then let me know what you would like to do. Contact me at
or 336-659-2464.

As we are looking for birds this year, many of us will remember one of our
veteran hawk-watchers, Lloyd Ramsey, who fell to his death last month at the
place he loved-Pilot Mountain. Oh, how he loved to watch a soaring kettle of
Broad-wingeds.

Phil Dickinson






A kettle of Broad-winged hawks overhead is a spectacular sight. So is a Bald
Eagle soaring overhead or a Peregrine Falcon zipping through the saddle
between Little and Big Pinnacles at Pilot Mountain. We will be watching for
these and other raptors during the Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch between
September 12 and 30, and we can use your eyes. Sign up for a four-hour shift
(10-2 or 2-6) any day, or just commit to a couple of hours if that is all
you can do. If you sign up in advance, it helps me make sure we have
adequate coverage for as much time as possible. It also helps me pair
inexperienced hawk watchers and birders with more experienced observers.
And, with a little help, this certainly an activity for birders regardless
of experience level and a great chance to improve your ID skills. However,
we need those experienced raptor eyes, too.

At www.forsythaudubon.org , go to the hawk
watch page and read about the event. You also will find links to resource
materials like a raptor ID chart and hawk watch guidelines, and a signup
calendar where you can check on times where we need your help. The data we
compile goes to a database at www.hawkcount.org
that ornithologists can use to follow migratory trends. You also can explore
that database to check on migration activity at dozens of watch sites along
the eastern seaboard.

If you see a date on which you can take part, email me at
, and I will add you to the schedule. I am looking forward
to hearing from you. Hawk Watch is only 5 days away.

Phil Dickinson




Our official hawk watch begins tomorrow at Little Pinnacle. The Mt. Pisgah
watch just reported over 140 Broad-winged Hawks today, so maybe we missed
some. But, I am sure more are on the way. Still looking for volunteers.

Phil Dickinson




This was the first day of our hawk watch at Pilot Mountain State Park in
Surry County. I arrived at Little Pinnacle at 10 am and was greeted by a
very vocal Red-breasted Nuthatch just a few feet away. Later in the
afternoon, Carol Cunningham and I were visited by two at the same time. So
far as hawks were concerned, though, it was pretty much of a bust: 1
migrating Osprey, 2 local Red-shouldered and 2 local Red-tailed. There also
were lots of local Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, along with a pair of
Common Ravens. It was a shame; viewing conditions were very good most of
the day.

Phil Dickinson




We had a little bit of activity today, but we could not see what some of the
mountain sites were seeing from our vantage point off of the main ridge
line. We counted 21 Broad-winged. Some were very far out at the limits of
binocular vision, and barely discernible from the local Black Vultures. We
also had 2 Red-shouldered that appeared to be migrating, and 2 other
unidentified buteos.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch visited us again, along with Pine Warblers and a
Scarlet Tanager.

Phil Dickinson




It was still slow today, with little wind and fairly warm temps, despite
good visibility. Before I left at 4 p.m., we had 3 single Broad-winged, but
also 1 Bald Eagle (adult), 2 Osprey, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Sharp-shinned.
Plus, we probably should count a Cooper's because we had seen no sign that
this was a local in the previous two days of the watch. There seems to be a
large number of Black Vultures around the knob this year. I counted at least
2 dozen today. One Red-breasted Nuthatch again.

Phil Dickinson




Great visibility today up to 60km and high clouds as a backdrop, although
like folks at Grandfather and Pisgah we wondered how many hawks were getting
by us above the clouds, since many were high in the clouds. When I left at
5:45, we had 287 Broad-winged, including a kettle of 94 and a late stream of
86. Also, we had 2 immature Bald Eagles, 3 Ospreys,3 Cooper's and 1
Sharp-shinned. At least 28 Tvs and 8 Bvs appeared to be migrants. A
Red-headed Woodpecker briefly visited our observation point in the morning.
Finally, it was a pleasure to host Chuck Smith and his natural history class
from High Point University for a couple of hours this afternoon. They really
enjoyed seeing the second eagle and watching a pair of Red-tailed Hawks
cavort around the knob.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




We had only moderate visibility today, and we saw only 82 Broad-winged ­
mostly alone or in small groups. We did have our first 3 Peregrine Falcons
of the season, along with 5 Bald Eagles in the morning, and two American
Kestrels. We had great participation to day. Much thanks to all who took
part.

Harvey's Knob watch site near Roanoke tallied 5193 Broad-winged yesterday
and 757 today. Will tomorrow be a good day here?

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




Tally today: 83 Broad-winged, 1 Bald Eagle (mature), 2 Osprey, 3 Peregrine,
1 Sharp-shinned and a couple of distant accipiters. Difficult conditions for
the first half of the day, with a lot of haze horizontally and high blue sky
above. At 1 pm, some cumulus clouds gave us a chance to see some birds.

Another good turnout of observers. Thanks to all: Diane Godfrey, George
Wheaton, Ken Hardin, Scott Depue, Carol Cunningham, Jean Chamberlain, Sven
Halling.

Phil Dickinson




After a miserable day of hawk watching on Saturday with only 22 Broad-winged
and a few others, a front came through bringing drier air, cloudless skies,
winds from the north and visibility of 60km. The result was our best day at
Pilot Mountain since 9/26/06, with 1735 Broad-winged Hawks and a total of
1759 migrating birds. Mike Tove, Scott Depue and I tallied 532 Broad-winged
between 9 and 11 am, and then observers saw 1034 Broad-winged between 3 and
6 pm. In between during the heat of the day, birds were flying over at the
limits of our binocular range, so who knows how many more passed by unseen.
We also had 4 Osprey, 3 Bald Eagle, 1 Northern Harrier, 4 American Kestrel
and a few accipiters. Also, hundreds of Monarch butterflies.

Phil Dickinson




Looking at results north of us for last weekend, we could predict that today
probably would be a fairly slow day and it was, with only 50 Broad-winged, 2
Osprey, and 2 Cooper's. Moreover, lateral haze limited visibility toward the
ridge to about 30-35 km. Things could get better, as Rockfish Gap near
Lexington, VA has reported more than 2700 Broad-winged during the past two
days ­ if not tomorrow perhaps Friday if we get that expected cold front
moving through tomorrow. Even if we do not get another bird, though, we
already have passed last year's Broad-winged total after our big day this
past Sunday. And, we are up to 22 Osprey, 18 Bald Eagle and 9 Peregrine
Falcon.

Today, we were visited by Brian Bockhahn and his state park service class on
migrating hawks. Brian will be back with another group tomorrow.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




With winds shifting around out of the NW, it was a pretty good afternoon of
hawk watching at Pilot Mountain. Our day's total was 318 Broad-winged Hawks,
including kettles of 52 and 61, 2 Osprey, 1 Bald Eagle, 1 Peregrine, and
some accipiters. Still lots of Monarchs coming through.

Since 9/12, we have had 2904 Broad-winged and over 3000 raptors. To our
north, Rockfish Gap near Lexington VA continues to roll up impressive
numbers with nearly 16,900 Broad-winged with many still streaming through.

Phil Dickinson
Winston-Salem




Today was the last official day of our 2012 Pilot Mountain Hawk Watch, and
it was a good one. Between 3 and 4 pm, we counted 352 Broad-winged Hawks,
and we recorded 632 total up through 5 pm. When I left, Scott DePue and John
Haire were hoping to find a few more. We also observed 6 Bald Eagles, 4
Osprey,1 Northern Harrier, at least 2 Peregrine Falcons, a couple of
American Kestrels and some accipiters, in addition to the local
Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks.

We also observed a Yellow-rumped Warbler and a Tree Swallow, had closeup
views of the Red-Breasted Nuthatch, and watched several Scarlet Tanagers and
Rose-breasted Grosbeaks eating Dogwood berries at the park office.

Our total Broad-winged count since September 12 stands at 3592, compared to
2321 in 2011. This is the highest total since 2006. We also have observed 25
Bald Eagles and 30 Ospreys.

Thanks to everyone who ventured up to the pinnacle to take part. Special
thanks to Scott, "Hubble" DePue and his incredible raptor-spotting
abilities.

Phil Dickinson