Over the next ten days, or so, the big wave of migrating Broad-winged hawks
will pass through the mid-Atlantic states. Broad-wings often migrate in
very large numbers and large groups. At the right time with the right
weather it is possible to see lots of them almost anywhere. September 18thor 19
th are often the big days in this area.
Look at the sky, especially clouds, and preferably with binoculars
anytime you can. If you see a bunch of birds swirling around together in a
cloud, or in the clear sky, you probably have a kettle of Broad-wings. I
have seen very large concentrations of Broad-wings even over congested
Northern Virginia.
If it gets windy go to the hawk watches. Snickers Gap in No. Va. is often
good for Broad-wings, especially on N.E.winds; and Rockfish Gap on I-64
west of Charlottesville is an excellent hawk watch with folks to help you
find the birds. There are also excellent hawk watches within an easy drive
in Maryland (Washington Monument Park), and in Pennsylvania ( Waggoner's
Gap and others).
Seeing 50, or 100, or even 500, Broad-wings at the same time in a cloud is
a memorable experience.
SO, KEEP LOOKING!
* GOOD HAWKING**!!
*
--
Donald Sweig
Falls Church, Va.
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