The Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch officially began its spring count on Friday, February 15.  Six migrant Turkey Vultures passed by on their way north.  Almost 600 Red-winged Blackbirds were also heading north.  Offshore were about 5000 ducks, mostly scaup and canvasbacks.  About 800 robins and 150 grackles milled about the Park.

Coverage between now and the end of the month will be irregular, but by March 1, we hope to have a counter there every day that weather permits.  You are especially welcome to come visit and witness this remarkable migration of raptors, waterfowl and passerines.  Directions may be found on the MOS website, www.mdbirds.org under Birding Sites/Maryland/Hawks.

Sue Ricciardi, Compiler