Dave,
   The July 31 date was based on previous data.  There are only two mid July and two late July reports in my database that might be classed as migrants and even these could be local breeders.  This is the sort of information that we hope the Atlas will provide us.  Since reports outside the two western counties will require verification forms to be included in the Atlas data we will have detailed notes on all the July reports, assuming they are reported for the Atlas.  If they go unreported the information is lost and we have less to judge the true status of the species.  So I hope these reports are submitted for the Atlas, even if they are in the "Observed" category.
   Interestingly, I know of only one July report of Sharp-shinned Hawk outside Garrett/Allegany during the first two years of the Atlas.  So far, no verifications forms have been received.  Consequently, it is much too soon to draw any conclusions.


>
> From: David Mozurkewich <>
> Date: 2004/07/23 Fri PM 02:16:44 EDT
> To: 
> Subject: Re: [MDOSPREY] Back to Atlasing
>
> On Fri, 23 Jul 2004, Jim Stasz wrote:
>
> > Mid-July is when post-breeding Sharp-shinned Hawks appear across
> > Maryland.  I had one a couple days ago at North Beach, Calvert County.
>
> But the safe dates continue until 7/31.  Is this a mistake in the atlas
> bluebook or is it a recent change in seasonal dispersal patterns?
>
> Dave
> David Mozurkewich
> Seabrook, PG MD USA
> mozurk @ bellAtlantic.net

Bob Ringler
Eldersburg MD