[EBB Sightings] Crockett Hills 4/24 Raptor Census

April 24, 2007

Turkey Vulture 36
Red-tailed Hawk 213
Sharp-shinned Hawk 0
Cooper's Hawk 0
Northern Harrier 10
Am. Kestrel 1
Peregrine 0
White-tailed Kite 9
Golden Eagle 2
Red-shouldered Hawk 0
Merlin 1
Osprey 0
Swainson's Hawk 1
Unidentified Accip 0
Unidentified Buteo 0
Unidentified Raptor 19
Total Count: 292
Total Minutes: 240
Raptors per Hour: 73.0

Temp 58F-65F, Wind 270T at 5 mph-10 mph, Sky clear. Heavy marine layer
extending over San Pablo Bay. Estimated dept 1500 ft. 

Crew: Mary Malec (GGRO), Harv Wilson (GGRO)

The high point today was a Swainson's Hawk, which appeared nearby east of
us, just after Mary arrived at about 12:30. It was a dark-morph adult,
uniform dark gray all over with slightly lighter under-wing coverts. Made
the ID based on the size and shape, particularly the narrow pointed wings.
Plumage was not much help. 

A little later we saw a Merlin whiz by. Also, the two local Golden Eagles
came to the hills just south of the watch site and briefly roosted in the
trees. We got some great looks at them cruising low over the trees. 

Today was the last day of the census. Will post a summary, including species
totals in a day or so.

Harv Wilson