The first few Broad-winged Hawks, seen in haze at a distance, and an amazing 37 Rough-legged Hawks, were the big news at Beamer Conservation Area in Grimsby today. Also included in the total of close to 275 birds were approximately 70 each of Turkey Vulture, Red-Tailed Hawk and Sharp-shinned Hawk plus one second year Bald Eagle.
The 22-year old one-day record of 24 Rough-legs was broken only 18 days ago when 46 of them passed by Beamer. Today's Rough-legs mean that at least 147 of the species have been counted at Beamer this year, breaking the previous season record of 145 Rough-legs set in 1991. Non-raptor highlights today include a single Sandhill Crane which passed by at a stately pace and a Pileated Woodpecker. The Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch will assist birders in learning more about birds of prey by holding Raptor Identification Workshops from 10AM-3PM tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday, April 17-18, at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area in Grimsby. Everyone is welcome. No charge. Directions: To reach Beamer Memorial Conservation Area take the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) Exit 71 in Grimsby. Follow Christie St. South and Mountain St./Ave. to the top of the escarpment. Turn right onto Ridge Road West and follow to Quarry Road. Turn right and follow to the park entrance. Parking is permitted in the park, the parking lot at the entrance or on Quarry Road or Ridge Road. Visitors parking outside should remember not to leave valuables in their car. Mike Mike Street Ancaster, Ontario, Canada [EMAIL PROTECTED]
