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. Sept. 18-19th are often
the big days locally. Try looking 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 one can try going 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.
