Date: 10/13/26 8:27 am From: David Govatski <david.govatski...> Subject: [NHBirds] Pondicherry Big Sit Results
The 20th annual Pondicherry Big Sit was held on Saturday 10 October 2026 from before sunrise to sunset. The Big Sit rules state that we can count all birds seen or positively heard from a 17-foot diameter circle. We use the Tudor Richard Viewing Platform at the edge of Cherry Pond in Jefferson. This is a 1.5 mile walk or bicycle ride in from the trailhead on Airport Road. The night sky early that morning was clear, and the Milky Way visible on the bike ride in. The starting temperature was 32 degrees and the deck had frost on it.
The 8 participants tallied a total of 35 species for the day and that is the average number of species seen over the 20 year period. The viewing conditions were excellent with clear skies and light West winds later in the morning from 2-5 mph. There was minimal migration and no V flocks of Canada geese flying overhead. The warm fall and lack of favorable North winds have delayed migration.
We added two new species to the Big Sit list that now stands at 94 species over 20 years on this date. We added Northern Pintail when a flock of 12 flew over the platform. We also added a common summer species, a lone red-winged blackbird. The only two warbler species were palm and yellow-rumped. Five black scoter were noted at dawn but left soon after.
Date: 10/12/26 6:03 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, October 12, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for October 12th, 2026.
A PACIFIC LOON was seen from Rye Harbor State Park on October 11th.
A POMARINE JAEGER, 11 WILSONâS STORM-PETRELS, and 1-2 RAZORBILLS were seen
at Jeffreyâs Ledge, all on October 12th.
LITTLE GULLS were seen at Great Island Common in New Castle on October 8th.
and a COMMON TERN was seen here on the 5th.
Several LAUGHING GULLS and RED-THROATED LOONS were seen along coastal Rye
during the past week.
2 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals during the past
week.
A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on October 10th.
2 BLACK VULTURES were seen at the Contoocook Cemetery on October 6th, 1 was
seen in East Kingston on the 9th, and was seen in Franklin on the 9th.
2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen at the McIndoes Reservoir in Monroe on October 6
th.
A WHITE-EYED VIREO was seen on private property in Seabrook
on October 9th.
A YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT seen on private property in Rochester on October 11th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a CONNECTICUT WARBLER from Rye Harbor
State Park on October 6th.
2 NELSONâS SPARROWS were seen on Krif Road in Keene on October 9th.
An AMERICAN TREE SPARROW was seen in Millsfield on October 11th. Early
arrival.
2 CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye on October 8th, and 1
was seen at the Birch Street Community Gardens in Concord on October 11th.
2 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye, 1 was seen at Salt Marsh Lane
in Greenland, 1 was seen at Landing Avenue in Concord, and 1 was seen at
the Birch Street Community Gardens in Concord, all on multiple times during
the past week.
A LESSER SCAUP was seen at Turtle Pomd in Concord on October 10th.
Lingering species reported during the past week included: BARN SWALLOW,
NORTHERN HOUSEWREN, NORTHERN PARULA, MAGNOLIA WARBLER, BLACKBURNIAN
WARBLER, BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. NORTHERN YELLOW WARBLER, BLACK-AND-WHITE
WARBLER, TENNESSEE WARBLER, CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER, PRAIRIE WARBLER,
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE, OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, RED-EYED
VIREO, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, SCARLET TANAGER, VEERY, and WOOD THRUSH.
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put âRare
Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Will Kirby found a incredibly interesting looking, melanistic Semipalmated Plover down at Ragged Neck in Rye the other day, and it has been seen on and off since then. Several of us on the NH Pelagic stopped by to get looks at this unique shorebird after we came back to harbor: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401837437
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Matt Tarr, Mike Gebo, Nathan French, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 326 visitors from near and far, including Denmark. Hello to Colin and Jess!
Weather: Partly cloudy at first, with fog low in the valley, but then the fog rose up and socked us in for a couple hours. Afterwards it was mostly cloudy, becoming mostly sunny in the afternoon. Temps started at 46 and increased to 57 degrees. Winds from the northwest.
Raptor Observations: The birds started moving in earnest as soon as the fog cleared away around 11:45am. There was a nice showing of Merlins, Ospreys, and harriers today. One Merlin snagged a Monarch but promptly released it unharmed. The last bird of the day was a beautiful adult sharpie taking a close look at Gina.
Non-raptor Observations: Nearly fifty ravens played in the wind above North Pack. A Ruby-crowned Kinglet hopped about in the trees nearby, and several insects enjoyed the warm weather including a friendly katydid, a distant dragonfly, and two Monarchs.
Monarchs: 2/843
Predictions: Rain showers tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/12/26 7:09 am From: Gail Coffey <gcoffeywriter...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rodenticides and Raptors
For those not aware, rodenticides are poisoning an increasing number of raptors--many are not surviving. Wings of Dawn Rehabilitation Center in Henniker recently treated 2 Red-tailed Hawks with severe rodenticide poisoning -both died. In 2025, Wings of Dawn, had 68 animals treated for rodenticide poisoning including: 14 Barred Owls, 40 hawks of varied species and 4 Bald Eagles, Of the 68 animals- only 5 survived. So this is a major ecological problem in NH and around the country.
A group of wildlife conservationists, naturalists and biologists formed Rodenticide Free NH. Our mission is to educate people/businesses about the ecological impacts of rodenticides and the non-toxic rodent control options. Pest companies promote rodenticides over non-toxic methods because it is easier and they make more money on monthly contracts.. The number of bait boxes with rodenticides has proliferated.
Please get the message out to those using rodenticides and you can refer them to our website for more information. Thank you.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers:
Visitors: 402. Lots of good conversations with interested visitors.
Weather: Cloudy and dreary. Drizzled for an hour during 11 o'clock. Gentle breeze from the SSW. Temps in the mid to upper forties. Rain showers started again at 4pm.
Raptor Observations: Not many raptors on the move. A "gray ghost" adult male harrier was the highlight.
Non-raptor Observations: Only one flock of Canada Geese after yesterday's eighty or so. Nice movement of yellow-rumps, with thirty-five coming by in twos and threes. Three Tennessee Warblers stopped in briefly to forage in the spruces.
Predictions: Better weather tomorrow with light northwest winds and slightly warmer temps. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 05:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 12 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Katrina Fenton
Observers: Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Katrina Fenton, Levi Burford, Mark Timmerman, Mike Gebo, Nathan French, Nora Hanke, with many more...
Visitors: 455.
Weather: Happy World Migratory Bird Day! It was a beautiful fall day on the mountain with excellent visibility. Light winds from the NW/WNW. Temps ranged from 36 to 49 degrees. High thin clouds steadily increased throughout the day.
Raptor Observations: Nice day for raptors with ten species on the move, including a bunch of sharpies, a nice push of kestrels, and a handful of Turkey Vultures. Shoutout to Levi and Katrina for putting in twelve hours for the Big Sit. They spotted a sharpie as the first migrant at 6:45am.
Non-raptor Observations: Great Canada Goose day! Many skeins came by throughout the day, resulting in a grand total of 3,175 geese. Overall, we had thirty bird species during our Big Sit. You can view the eBird checklist here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401112586
Monarchs: 2/841
Predictions: Cloudy tomorrow with light south winds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/10/26 12:00 pm From: jeepinmoabgirl <jeepingmoabgirl...> Subject: [NHBirds] Hundreds of Canadian geese on the Connecticut River between Edgewater farms and Mac's maple
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Nikko Gagnon
Visitors: 332 including a couple school groups.
Weather: Partly sunny with strong west winds. Temps ranged from low forties to low fifties. Snowy Mt. Washington visible at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: Most of the raptors were flying low today. Highlights included an immature goshawk cruising by, a female harrier flying with a raven, and a few falcons coming by close.
Non-raptor Observations: Ravens had fun in the wind. Chickadees and juncos enjoyed some birdseed, and a Tufted Titmouse and White-breasted Nuthatch flew by. Insect sightings included one hardy Autumn Meadowhawk.
Predictions: Weather looks great tomorrow with light winds from the northwest. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Nikko Gagnon, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 163. Thanks to everyone who joined us spotting birds, and hello to Scott Hecker!
Weather: Dense fog in the morning gave way to partly sunny skies. Persistent winds, mostly from the west. Temps ranging from 46 to 55 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Another great day for Peregrines. Some would play with the ravens over North Pack before carrying on again. One Osprey came by every hour starting at 11 o'clock. Other migrants included a handful of Cooper's Hawks, a few sharpies, two red-shoulders, two juvenile harriers, one Bald Eagle, and one Merlin.
Non-raptor Observations: Along with the raptors, we saw a couple flocks of geese and the usual songbirds, including two Ruby-crowned Kinglets. An exciting non-bird highlight was a weasel chasing a chipmunk around near the picnic tables.
Monarchs: 2/839
Predictions: Similar weather tomorrow, with more west winds and sunshine. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/8/26 1:36 pm From: Jane Rice <moultnews...> Subject: [NHBirds] Birding Cuba program
Lakes Region birders, mark your calendars for next Thursday. October 15, so that you can plan to attend a program on birding in Cuba, presented by Charlie Nims. 7 pm at the Loon Center, 183 Lee's Mills Road in Moultonborough.
There is a brief description of the program on the chapter website at nhaudubonlakes.com. When I was creating the poster I got so involved with wrestling with the computer that I neglected to include Charlie's name, so just wanted everyone to be aware of who is presenting this exciting program. Hope we have a great turnout.
Date: 10/8/26 11:19 am From: 'Ducky Darrick' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] *** NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 PM Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory***
Lol I assume this is not the Phil Brown from the Dave Mallett song
On Thu, Oct 8, 2026, 1:02â¯PM bikenbird via NHBirds <nhbirds...>
wrote:
> New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
>
> Please note the following:
> * Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs)
> for any changes that may impact the in person program.
> * There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in
> refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you!
>
> Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 pm Program: *Migratory Raptors of Pack
> Monadnock Raptor Observatory*
> (note: This is a program change from the published program in the
> Summer/Fall 2026 Newsletter)
>
> Join Harris Center bird conservation director and raptor aficionado
> Phil Brown for an overview of the hawk migration season through the lens of
> the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory in Peterborough, which has been
> tallying migrating raptors for over twenty years. Learn identification
> tips, life histories, conservation trends, and migration strategies for the
> fifteen or so raptor species that pass over NH's airspace each fall, and
> hear about research and conservation initiatives to protect them. You'll be
> well prepared for hawk migration after this informative and photo-filled
> session!
>
> *Bio:* Phil Brown grew up in New York City and developed a deep
> interest in the natural world, particularly birds, at a young age. In and
> after undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, he pursued a career in
> conservation stewardship, initially in urban settings. In 2004, he took to
> the wilder woodlands of New Hampshire, where he served as NH Audubon's
> Director of Land Management stewarding wildlife sanctuaries, a position he
> held for 17 years. This formative experience helped him shape a career that
> today blends conservation, stewardship, and education.
> Phil's path first crossed with the Harris Center during his time as a
> graduate student at Antioch University New England in 2007 and, as a new
> Monadnock Region resident, he began to get involved leading field trips.
> Phil made the move to the Harris Center in 2021 as the organization's first
> Bird Conservation Director. He manages a variety of conservation projects
> focused on American Kestrel conservation, Broad-winged Hawk ecology,
> Northern Saw-whet Owl banding, and other focal species of conservation
> concern. Perhaps most central to his Harris Center work is the coordination
> of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory, an effort he has led for both NH
> Audubon and the Harris Center for over 15 years.
> In addition, Phil is a frequent field trip leader for the Harris Center,
> the Hawk Migration Association, and other organizations. He leads immersive
> bird and nature-based journeys in Costa Rica several times a year for The
> Dreamcatchers and, under this outfit, recently co-authored his first book,
> MicroExploring the SuperSanctuary, which brings a new philosophy to
> exploring places close to home, connecting people to nature in a deeper way
> (see May 2027 program). Phil lives in Hancock with his family, where he can
> be found in a variety of outdoor pursuits in all seasons.
>
>
> All are welcome to attend our Wednesday October 14, 2026 program which
> is free of charge at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible),
> Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/570+Ocean+Boulevard,+Rye+NH?entry=gmail&source=g> (click
> here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center)
> <https://goo.gl/maps/1m696k57bFvv7Yxn6> There will be refreshments
> starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked
> at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on
> http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
>
> Thank You! Dunkinâ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH
> (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit
> the location mention a thank you!
>
> Al Stewart, Jr.
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
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> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<1579730339.1402477.1791478938770...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<1579730339.1402477.1791478938770...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
Date: 10/8/26 10:02 am From: bikenbird via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] *** NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 PM Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory***
New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
Please note the following:Â
  * Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs) for any changes that may impact the in person program.
  * There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you!
  Wednesday October 14, 2026 7:30 pm Program: Migratory Raptors of Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory   (note: This is a program change from the published program in the Summer/Fall 2026 Newsletter)
  Join Harris Center bird conservation director and raptor aficionado Phil Brown for an overview of the hawk migration season through the lens of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory in Peterborough, which has been tallying migrating raptors for over twenty years. Learn identification tips, life histories, conservation trends, and migration strategies for the fifteen or so raptor species that pass over NH's airspace each fall, and hear about research and conservation initiatives to protect them. You'll be well prepared for hawk migration after this informative and photo-filled session!
  Bio: Phil Brown grew up in New York City and developed a deep interest in the natural world, particularly birds, at a young age. In and after undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, he pursued a career in conservation stewardship, initially in urban settings. In 2004, he took to the wilder woodlands of New Hampshire, where he served as NH Audubon's Director of Land Management stewarding wildlife sanctuaries, a position he held for 17 years. This formative experience helped him shape a career that today blends conservation, stewardship, and education.Phil's path first crossed with the Harris Center during his time as a graduate student at Antioch University New England in 2007 and, as a new Monadnock Region resident, he began to get involved leading field trips. Phil made the move to the Harris Center in 2021 as the organization's first Bird Conservation Director. He manages a variety of conservation projects focused on American Kestrel conservation, Broad-winged Hawk ecology, Northern Saw-whet Owl banding, and other focal species of conservation concern. Perhaps most central to his Harris Center work is the coordination of the Pack Monadnock Raptor Observatory, an effort he has led for both NH Audubon and the Harris Center for over 15 years.In addition, Phil is a frequent field trip leader for the Harris Center, the Hawk Migration Association, and other organizations. He leads immersive bird and nature-based journeys in Costa Rica several times a year for The Dreamcatchers and, under this outfit, recently co-authored his first book, MicroExploring the SuperSanctuary, which brings a new philosophy to exploring places close to home, connecting people to nature in a deeper way (see May 2027 program). Phil lives in Hancock with his family, where he can be found in a variety of outdoor pursuits in all seasons. Â
  All are welcome to attend our Wednesday October 14, 2026 program which is free of charge at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible), Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH (click here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center) There will be refreshments starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
  Thank You! Dunkinâ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit the location mention a thank you!
Date: 10/8/26 3:30 am From: David Govatski <david.govatski...> Subject: [NHBirds] Pondicherry Big Sit Birding Day on Saturday 10 October
The 20th Annual Pondicherry Big Sit Birding Event is this Saturday 10 October 2026 at the Tudor Richard Platform at Cherry Pond in Jefferson. The event runs from sunrise to sunset where we count all the bird species seen or heard from the platform. We will keep two lists, one for just the Big Sit area and a second list for the rest of the Pondicherry National Wildlife Refuge in Jefferson and Whitefield for World Migratory Bird Day that coincides with the Big Sit. The platform is a 1.5 mile walk or bicycle ride in from the trailhead at 289 Airport Road in Whitefield. The Autumn foliage is still spectacular.
For more information or to sign up for the free event contact organizer David Govatski at <David.Govatski...>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nate Marchessault
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Nora Hanke, Robin Feustel, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 122. During the quiet times between birds, lots of great conversation with visitors from both near and far!
Weather: Sunny skies with temps beginning chilly and gradually rising to a pleasant fall day. Winds out of the southwest all day with a slight breeze.
Raptor Observations: It was a trickle of birds today, somewhat expected for the weather conditions. First birds snuck in just before noon, with a handful of birds each hour after that. Peregrines were moving in decent numbers, with one that appears it might roost on the rocks at North Pack overnight. A few late broad-wings were a nice treat, too.
Non-raptor Observations: The empty early morning skies were periodically broken by flocks of geese. One Snow Goose was observed moving within a large flock of Canada Geese. Other than that, the usual suspects for birds around the watch; a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, juncos, and White-throated sparrows. A diminutive ladies' tresses orchid was in bloom along the path to the hawkwatch. Keep your eyes open for it if you visit!
Monarchs: 1/837 Blue Jays: 0 Geese: 197
Predictions: Winds shift to the west tomorrow, with a slight northerly component. If there is a bit more of a northerly component than forecasted, it could be a good day, but either way some birds should be on the move so long as it's not raining. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Julie Brown, Phil Brown
Observers: Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Julie Brown, Phil Brown, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 156 in total; lots of hawk watch friends and general visitors for a Tuesday, but what a spectacular day to enjoy the views! 11 students and associated chaperones from Country Village Montessouri School in Amherst NH came out to learn about migration and had some great answers and questions. Thanks to Justin from MA for spotting birds with us in the am, and welcome, Maureen and Bill from Hanover NH. Great to see Jon, Cheryl, Tom, Seth, and Adria. Big thanks to David W for keeping watch in the 8 am hour.
Weather: Moderate winds from the WNW all day, and blue skies with cloud cover limited to a sliver of horizon in northern NH. Cool with temps starting at 34 F and topping out at just 46 F. Snow cover spotted on Mount Lafayette later in the day!
Raptor Observations: Low numbers overall, but nice diversity, with all regular accips and falcons observed migrating. Many birds were far today and stayed below horizon with the strong winds out of the west. However, a few standouts today included two close peregrines near the end of the day (one trying to eat a butterfly), a merlin zipping by Gina the plastic owl, two early harriers migrating together, and a fairly close osprey following the path one took hours earlier before 9 am.
Non-raptor Observations: The raven show was in full effect for the many visitors who came to watch hawks and peep leaves. Low numbers of passerines today, with pine siskins (5) being the highlight. Monarchs: 6/836 Blue Jays: 3
Predictions: Winds from the SW seem a little less promising on paper, but if wind isn't too strong, it's worth a visit. Even if not, come to see the foliage and visit with Nate! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Jim McCoy
Visitors: 118. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat with us even though it was cold, and shoutout to Chuck for volunteering in the wind the whole day.
Weather: Partly sunny with variable cloud cover. Fog rolled by in the morning, obscuring visibility at times. Temps ranged from 44 to 53 degrees. Stiff winds, mostly from the west. Wind speed often near 20 mph, sometimes closer to 15 mph, and occasionally reaching 30 mph.
Raptor Observations: Nice diversity of raptors again with representatives from eleven species trickling by throughout the day. Peregrines won the prize for the highest number today (six). Cooper's Hawks tied with sharpies for the first time this season (four each). An immature goshawk flew by shortly after 1pm, pausing briefly to ride the winds with a raven. Non-migrants included six Turkey Vultures, two Bald Eagles, two red-tails, and two Merlins.
The one unidentified raptor today was an interesting bird. First spotted near the Camel Humps, it flew behind North Pack and circled once above the Lyndeboroughs, revealing a clean white belly, before disappearing again towards the southeast. A very distant bird, it had long wings and was flapping like a harrier or gull. It was also reminiscent of an Osprey but seemed too brown on top. Oh well. It was probably just a Swainson's Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Song Sparrow mixed in with the juncos and white-throats. Eastern Phoebe made a brief appearance, and a beautiful Black-throated Green Warbler foraged in the spruce trees. Eighteen ravens enjoyed playing in the wind all across the sky.
Monarchs: 4/830
Predictions: Sunshine and northwest winds tomorrow. It will be even colder than today, hopefully encouraging more birds to migrate. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 10/5/26 1:55 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, October 5, 2026,
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for October 5, 2026.
6 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, 2 ATLANTIC PUFFINS, and a COMMON MURRE were seen
by birders on a boat out of Hampton on September 30th.
A CORYâS SHHEARWATER, 5 LEACHâS STORM-PETRELS and 70 WILSONâS STORM-PETRELS
were seen in offshore waters between the Isles of Shoals and Old Scantum on
September 30th.
2 LITTLE GULLS were seen at Peirce Island in Portsmouth on October 3rd, and
1 was seen between the Isles of Shoals and Old Scantum on September 30th.
A COMMON TERN was seen from Great Island Common in New Castle on October 1st.
3 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals during the past
week.
A SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER was seen at Tullando Farm in Orford on September 28
th.
A GREAT CORMORANT was seen at Crescent Lake in Wolfeboro on October 3rd.
A GREAT EGRET was seen in Woodsville on September 29th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen at the Contoocook Cemetery on September 29th.
A BLUE GROSBEAK was seen in Hampton Harbor on September 30th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT seen on private
property in Manchester on October 4th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a CONNECTICUT WARBLER from Rye Harbor
State Park on October 2nd and 4th.
A MOURNING WARBLER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park on October 4th.
A LARK SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on October 2nd, and there was
an unconfirmed report of 1 from Wilson Hill Road in New Boston on October 1
st.
A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 30th, and
1 was seen at Woodridge Park in Durham on October 1st.
There was an unconfirmed report of 5 CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS mixed in with a
flock of CHIPPING SPARROWS seen along East Side Road in Sanbornville on
October 1st.
A GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was seen along Arboretum Drive across from Pease
International Tradeport in Newington on September 30th.
2 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye during the past week.
A CHIMNEY SWIFT was seen at Pack Monadnock on October 3rd. Getting late!
A few lingering RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRDS were reported during the past
week.
A flock of 9 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS was seen flying overhead in Portsmouth on
September 28th, and single birds were reported from Concord, New Castle,
and Rye on September 29th.
A YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO was reported from Second College Grant on September
30th. A BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO was seen in Twin Mountain on September 28th,
and 1 was seen in Dixville on October 30th. Getting late!
Lingering species reported during the past week included: BLACKBURNIAN
WARBLER, BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. NORTHERN YELLOW WARBLER, BLACK-AND-WHITE
WARBLER, TENNESSEE WARBLER, CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER, EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE,
GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER, EASTERN WARBLING VIREO, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER,
TREE SWALLOW, MARSH WREN, ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, VEERYS, and WOOD THRUSHES.
Species reported from birders visiting Star Island, one of the Isles of
Shoals, during the past week included:
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put âRare
Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson
Visitors: 403 including Gayle from the Braddock Bay Hawkwatch.
Weather: Cool, cloudy Autumn day. Mix of low clouds and high cirrus clouds. Temps ranging from low forties to low fifties. Light wind starting from the east and gradually shifting to the south. Summit covered in fog for the first hour.
Raptor Observations: A couple kettles of Turkey Vultures boosted today's count to over 100 birds. The first bird was a kestrel flying through the fog shortly after 9am. There were several close birds today, including some beautiful adult sharpies, Cooper's Hawks, and Red-shouldered Hawks. Two peregrines flying along over North Pack during 3 o'clock were the last birds of the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Nice assortment of songbirds around including an Ovenbird, Winter Wren, robin, and three pipits. A bunny made an appearance at the birdseed, and a katydid perched on rocks near the platform. Yesterday, a katydid made friends with Gina, sitting between her ears and chatting for some time.
Monarchs: 7/826
Predictions: Sunny and windy tomorrow. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 06:00:00 Observation end time: 16:15:00 Total observation time: 10.25 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Nate Marchessault
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Mark Timmerman, Meade Cadot, Mike Gebo, Nate Marchessault, Nora Hanke, Tom Warren, Van Zimmer, with many more...
Visitors: 353. Lots of folks enjoying the beautiful fall colors. Thanks to David, Brian and Pat, and many others for spotting birds with us.
Weather: Blue skies and sunshine with light wind from the N/NW. Temps ranging from 44 to 56 degrees. Visibility all the way to Mt. Washington.
Raptor Observations: Excellent early October day with twelve different species on the move. Lots of sharpies today, along with a few broad-wings and a handful of falcons. A couple Merlins posed for pictures on the spruces near the hawkwatch at the end of the day.
Non-raptor Observations: Nice mix of other birds too, including flocks of Canada Geese, a late Chimney Swift, two late Tree Swallows, a flyby Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and twenty Yellow-rumped Warblers. A few Monarchs on the wing.
Monarchs: 4/819 Blue Jays: 30/259
Predictions: Cloudier tomorrow with winds shifting between the east and south. Probably less birds than today but there should still be some flying. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: Busy, 57. One nice lady, upon learning that I was hawk watching, asked me if I was from the Harris Center. "No," I answered, "but I know Phil Brown." "I do too," she answered. "How many times have you been to Costa Rica?" I asked. "Only once, but", she gushed, "my next trip I'm going to Ireland with Eric Masterson!"
Weather: A cloudless sky all day; light W winds turning NW by 9:30 then calm at 2:00; warm, 54 - 71 F.
Raptor Observations: A falcon trifecta day. Still more American Kestrels, last week a new season high count was reached, a Peregrine worked hard past Mt Major, plus a Merlin for good measure. Of the 14 Turkey Vultures present, 4 were good migrants. Sharp-shins showed most hours.
Non-raptor Observations: First White-throated Sparrows of the season, a flock of Canada Geese southbound, bluebirds, siskin, and 49 Yellow-rumped Warblers. 1 Monarch.
Predictions: And this just in: the Forest Society is going to conduct a controlled burn at the Morse Preserve next week that could shut me down for a few days. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Date: 10/3/26 2:47 pm From: 'Steve Mirick' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Coastal Field Trip for Seacoast Audubon (Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Dickcissels, and 10 species of warblers)
Jane and I, assisted by Ashton Almeida and Holly Bauer, led a bird walk
today for the Seacoast Chapter of NH Audubon.
Most of the trip was spent on a long walk around Odiorne Point State
Park, but we offered a trip extension to Goss Farm in Rye. The weather
was sunny, calm, and seasonal with a bit of a seabreeze toward the end.Â
Like last year, there were very few migrating birds except for a couple
of Common Loons, a couple of hawks and a couple of small flocks of
migrating cormorants. Odiorne Point State Park was kind of slow for
migrants, but there some and we managed to dig out a decent variety!Â
Highlights were the Yellow-billed Cuckoos and the small numbers of
warblers and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. Highlights at Goss Farm were the
continuing Dickcissels, a beautiful Bobolink, and a fantastic group of 4
Rusty Blackbirds!
Canada Goose  11
American Black Duck  7
Common Eider  49
Surf Scoter  7
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon)Â Â 2
Mourning Dove  3
YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO  3 at Odiorne. Includes 2 seen foraging together!
Greater Yellowlegs  2
Laughing Gull  1
Ring-billed Gull  2
American Herring Gull  21
Great Black-backed Gull  3
Common Loon  3. Two migrating together.
Double-crested Cormorant  589
Snowy Egret  1
Great Egret  3
Great Blue Heron  7
Turkey Vulture  4
Sharp-shinned Hawk  2
Red-tailed Hawk  3
Belted Kingfisher  1
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker  3. Two at Odiorne and one at Goss Farm.
Red-bellied Woodpecker  2
Downy Woodpecker  7
Northern Flicker  1
Merlin  2
Peregrine Falcon  1 migrating bird at Odiorne picked out by Ashton.
Eastern Phoebe  5
Blue-headed Vireo  3
Red-eyed Vireo  5
Blue Jay  10
American Crow  4
Common Raven  1
Black-capped Chickadee  9
Tufted Titmouse  1
Ruby-crowned Kinglet  1
Golden-crowned Kinglet  6
White-breasted Nuthatch  3
Red-breasted Nuthatch  2
BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER  1. Nice views of late bird.
Northern House Wren  3
Carolina Wren  2
European Starling  50
Gray Catbird  5
Eastern Bluebird  9
American Robin  3
Cedar Waxwing  16
House Finch  27
American Goldfinch  1
Chipping Sparrow  22
White-crowned Sparrow  1. Juvenile. My first of the fall.
White-throated Sparrow  17
Savannah Sparrow  4
Song Sparrow  7
Lincoln's Sparrow  1
Swamp Sparrow  5
Bobolink  1 at Goss Farm.
RUSTY BLACKBIRDÂ Â 4Â Fantastic views at Goss Farm.
Black-and-white Warbler  1
Nashville Warbler  1
Common Yellowthroat  1
Magnolia Warbler  2
Northern Yellow Warbler  1
Blackpoll Warbler  7
Black-throated Blue Warbler  1
Palm Warbler  2
Yellow-rumped Warbler  22
Prairie Warbler  1
SCARLET TANAGERÂ Â 1 latish individual at Odiorne.
Northern Cardinal  3
Indigo Bunting  1 at Goss Farm.
DICKCISSEL 2 together at Goss Farm. Possibly a 3rd.
Butterflies
---------------
Monarch
American Copper
American Lady
Mourning Cloak
Clouded Sulphur
Orange Sulphur
Cabbage White
Dragonflies
----------------
Common Green Darner
Autumn Meadowhawk
Spreadwing sp.
I also had singing phoebes in my yard in Bradford for a couple of days
earlier this week.
On Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 8:00:26â¯PM UTC-4 Susan wrote:
> I heard an Eastern Phoebe calling this morning on my early walk about
> 7:30. I havenât heard one in my neighborhood since spring when I assume the
> birds were migrating through.
> Susan Hunter, Bedford
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Kim Snyder
Visitors: 159 including a group from Mass Audubon.
Weather: Mostly cloudy with wind from the WSW and increasing haze. Unseasonably warm day, with temps getting up to 68 degrees. A rain shower at 3pm with more in the forecast ended the count early.
Raptor Observations: An Osprey kicked off the day around 1:30pm again. It was followed by three more Ospreys using the same flight path from the left-hand shoulder of North Pack to low over the valley. A single Peregrine also cruised by.
Several local raptors milled around including a few Turkey Vultures, two Merlins, one Bald Eagle, one sharpie, and one red-tail.
Non-raptor Observations: The male towhee made an appearance, and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker flew by. Over a dozen ravens enjoyed the wind above North Pack.
Blue Jays: 4/229
Predictions: Clear and sunny tomorrow with a light breeze from the north. Should be a better day for migration! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 15:45:00 Total observation time: 7.75 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Chuck Carlson, Holly Bauer, Phil Brown, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 111 including a group from NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter. Thanks for visiting!
Weather: Warm and cloudy with a light breeze from the southwest. Hazy in the distance. Temps in the high fifties. Sprinkle of rain at the end of the day.
Raptor Observations: An Osprey flying over North Pack shortly after 1:30pm was the first migrant of the day and of October. A couple more Ospreys, two sharpies, and one Peregrine followed later in the afternoon.
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds including a Nashville Warbler perching in the birch sapling next to the platform, a Palm Warbler hopping about, and a Pine Siskin flying over.
At one point, I heard the sound of munching and looked around to spy a large porcupine sitting in the top of a young oak tree. It nosily ripped off oak leaves and devoured them with gusto before climbing down again and disappearing.
Predictions: More southwest winds tomorrow. Saturday still looks like a good day, with abundant sunshine and northerly winds in the forecast. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 7
Weather: Low clouds covered the hill top for the first hour and a half. Belknap Mountain was not out of the clouds until 12:00 and Mt Shaw was not clear until 1:30. Persistent scattered showers in the area. Moderate then light NNE winds; 54 - 63 F.
Raptor Observations: After a 3 day Noreaster I was hoping for a break out flight. But only 2 birds in the first hour then only 3 birds until almost 2:00 when a higher ceiling brought in a line of 10 Turkey Vultures plus a few others.
Non-raptor Observations: A rare visit by a Savannah Sparrow and a few Palm Warblers.
Predictions: SW winds but light so should see a decent flight. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6.5 hours
Official Counter: Julie Brown, Phil Brown
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Nora Hanke, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 36 including young birder Gavin, and Esther.
Weather: Lingering moisture from the past weekend's Nor'easter dominated the day, with low clouds, fog, and mist socking in the summit until around noon. Light winds from WNW/NW most of the day. Ceiling lifted to about 2,500' until a wall of cloudy mist came in around 3 pm to shut us down early.
Raptor Observations: Osprey was the first bird of the day just past noon, causing much excitement. Sharpies showed a sign of movement in the afternoon as the ceiling allowed them to lift. They seemed extra feisty today with each other.
Non-raptor Observations: Blue Jay migration was in full swing today with 163 silently passing low over the summit in small groups of up to about 30 at a time. Later September migrants included Pine Siskin, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and White-throated Sparrow, in addition to just a few Yellow-rumps and a small numbers of assorted songbirds.
Predictions: The sun may return, and Wednesday looks like the pick of the week! Could be a good push of backed up birds, including sharpies and a mix of other species. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/28/26 9:30 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, September 28, 2026
no bbcu reported to RBA
On Mon, Sep 28, 2026 at 12:19â¯PM Chris Heys <chris.p.heys...> wrote:
> All but absent this year, for me. Yellow billed calling in the rain on
> Saturday, though.
>
> Chris
> Rindge NH
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Sep 28, 2026, at 11:43â¯AM, Randy Langer <randylanger52...>
> wrote:
>
> 
> Any black-billed cuckoo?
> Randy
>
> On Mon, Sep 28, 2026, 10:52 Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> wrote:
>
>> This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for September 28th, 2026.
>>
>>
>>
>> A COMMON RINGED PLOVER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on
>> September 19th - 21st, and it was last reported on the 22nd.
>>
>>
>>
>> There was an unconfirmed report of a POMARINE JAEGER seen from Odiorne
>> Point State Park in Rye on September 26th.
>>
>>
>>
>> 2 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS were seen flying over Pack Monadnock in
>> Miller State Park in Peterborough on September 21st.
>>
>>
>>
>> A flock of 8 COMMON TERNS was seen from Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State
>> Park on September 27th.
>>
>>
>>
>> 25 WILSONâS STORM-PETRELS were seen in offshore waters at Jeffreyâs Ledge
>> on September 21st.
>>
>>
>>
>> A flock of 11 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS was seen at Odiorne
>> Point State Park in Rye on September 21st.
>>
>>
>>
>> A WESTERN CATTLE-EGRET was seen at Lucky Acres Farm along
>> Mammoth Road in Pelham on September 22nd and 23rd.
>>
>>
>>
>> 357 GREAT EGRETS and 156 SNOWY EGRETS were seen roosting
>> along Route 107 in Seabrook on September 24th.
>>
>>
>>
>> 3 BLACK VULTURES were seen flying over College Woods in Durham on
>> September 23rd.
>>
>>
>>
>> A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen at Great Meadow in Charlestown on September 25
>> th.
>>
>>
>>
>> A HORNED LARK was seen from Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State Park on
>> September 25th and 26th.
>>
>>
>>
>> 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen at Lackie Farm in Bath on September 23rd.
>>
>>
>>
>> A CANADA WARBLER was seen in Lebanon on September 22nd.
>>
>>
>>
>> A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 21st.
>>
>>
>>
>> 3 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye, and 1 was seen at the
>> Concord Community Gardens on Birch Street all during the past week.
>>
>>
>>
>> A few EASTERN KINGBIRDS, YELLOW-THROATED VIREOS, YELLOW-BELLIED
>> FLYCATCHERS, ALDER FLYCATCHERS, VEERYS, and WOOD THRUSHES were reported
>> during the past week.
>>
>>
>>
>> Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
>> counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
>> Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
>> official counters!
>>
>>
>>
>> An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
>> have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
>> 224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can
>> also send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put
>> âRare Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting
>> and your phone number.
>>
>>
>>
>> *What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
>>
>> The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
>> usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
>> websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
>> uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
>>
>>
>>
>> *What makes a bird rare?*
>>
>> A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
>> an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
>> example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
>> Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
>> normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
>> rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
>> Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
>> <https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
>> the *Joy of Birding.*
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks very much and good birding!
>>
>>
>>
>> Available NOW!
>>
>> Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
>> dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
>> North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
>> guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in
>> northern Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to
>> order a copy, check out this link:
>>
>>
>>
>> https://nhbirdrecords.org/birding-northern-new-hampshire/ >>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
>> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en >> ---
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "NHBirds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/CAESjXVHWuY%3D%2BmoZZ3V5E%3DvGuuo%3D2RwWQnco%<3Di0GGwkA0_2fetA...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/CAESjXVHWuY%3D%2BmoZZ3V5E%3DvGuuo%3D2RwWQnco%<3Di0GGwkA0_2fetA...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "NHBirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/CACO18f4ZwJ7G9w-mMNw3oPS%<2BaR_-X9vUPxJt3S_UEdL1uHoAvw...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/CACO18f4ZwJ7G9w-mMNw3oPS%<2BaR_-X9vUPxJt3S_UEdL1uHoAvw...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
>
Date: 9/28/26 8:44 am From: Randy Langer <randylanger52...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, September 28, 2026
Any black-billed cuckoo?
Randy
On Mon, Sep 28, 2026, 10:52 Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> wrote:
> This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for September 28th, 2026.
>
>
>
> A COMMON RINGED PLOVER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on
> September 19th - 21st, and it was last reported on the 22nd.
>
>
>
> There was an unconfirmed report of a POMARINE JAEGER seen from Odiorne
> Point State Park in Rye on September 26th.
>
>
>
> 2 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS were seen flying over Pack Monadnock in Miller
> State Park in Peterborough on September 21st.
>
>
>
> A flock of 8 COMMON TERNS was seen from Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State
> Park on September 27th.
>
>
>
> 25 WILSONâS STORM-PETRELS were seen in offshore waters at Jeffreyâs Ledge
> on September 21st.
>
>
>
> A flock of 11 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS was seen at Odiorne
> Point State Park in Rye on September 21st.
>
>
>
> A WESTERN CATTLE-EGRET was seen at Lucky Acres Farm along
> Mammoth Road in Pelham on September 22nd and 23rd.
>
>
>
> 357 GREAT EGRETS and 156 SNOWY EGRETS were seen roosting along
> Route 107 in Seabrook on September 24th.
>
>
>
> 3 BLACK VULTURES were seen flying over College Woods in Durham on
> September 23rd.
>
>
>
> A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen at Great Meadow in Charlestown on September 25
> th.
>
>
>
> A HORNED LARK was seen from Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State Park on
> September 25th and 26th.
>
>
>
> 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen at Lackie Farm in Bath on September 23rd.
>
>
>
> A CANADA WARBLER was seen in Lebanon on September 22nd.
>
>
>
> A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 21st.
>
>
>
> 3 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye, and 1 was seen at the Concord
> Community Gardens on Birch Street all during the past week.
>
>
>
> A few EASTERN KINGBIRDS, YELLOW-THROATED VIREOS, YELLOW-BELLIED
> FLYCATCHERS, ALDER FLYCATCHERS, VEERYS, and WOOD THRUSHES were reported
> during the past week.
>
>
>
> Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
> counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
> Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
> official counters!
>
>
>
> An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
> have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
> 224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
> send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put âRare
> Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
> phone number.
>
>
>
> *What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
>
> The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
> usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
> websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
> uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
>
>
>
> *What makes a bird rare?*
>
> A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
> an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
> example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
> Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
> normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
> rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
> Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
> <https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
> the *Joy of Birding.*
>
>
>
> Thanks very much and good birding!
>
>
>
> Available NOW!
>
> Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
> dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
> North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
> guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in
> northern Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to
> order a copy, check out this link:
>
>
>
> https://nhbirdrecords.org/birding-northern-new-hampshire/ >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit:
> https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > ---
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "NHBirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/CAESjXVHWuY%3D%2BmoZZ3V5E%3DvGuuo%3D2RwWQnco%<3Di0GGwkA0_2fetA...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/CAESjXVHWuY%3D%2BmoZZ3V5E%3DvGuuo%3D2RwWQnco%<3Di0GGwkA0_2fetA...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
Date: 9/28/26 7:52 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, September 28, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for September 28th, 2026.
A COMMON RINGED PLOVER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on
September 19th - 21st, and it was last reported on the 22nd.
There was an unconfirmed report of a POMARINE JAEGER seen from Odiorne
Point State Park in Rye on September 26th.
2 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS were seen flying over Pack Monadnock in Miller
State Park in Peterborough on September 21st.
A flock of 8 COMMON TERNS was seen from Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State
Park on September 27th.
25 WILSONâS STORM-PETRELS were seen in offshore waters at Jeffreyâs Ledge
on September 21st.
A flock of 11 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS was seen at Odiorne
Point State Park in Rye on September 21st.
A WESTERN CATTLE-EGRET was seen at Lucky Acres Farm along
Mammoth Road in Pelham on September 22nd and 23rd.
357 GREAT EGRETS and 156 SNOWY EGRETS were seen roosting along
Route 107 in Seabrook on September 24th.
3 BLACK VULTURES were seen flying over College Woods in Durham on September
23rd.
A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen at Great Meadow in Charlestown on September 25th
.
A HORNED LARK was seen from Ragged Neck at Rye Harbor State Park on
September 25th and 26th.
3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen at Lackie Farm in Bath on September 23rd.
A CANADA WARBLER was seen in Lebanon on September 22nd.
A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 21st.
3 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye, and 1 was seen at the Concord
Community Gardens on Birch Street all during the past week.
A few EASTERN KINGBIRDS, YELLOW-THROATED VIREOS, YELLOW-BELLIED
FLYCATCHERS, ALDER FLYCATCHERS, VEERYS, and WOOD THRUSHES were reported
during the past week.
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 15,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put âRare
Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Observation start time: 06:30:00 Observation end time: 11:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman
Observers: David Wiedner, Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman, Nate Marchessault, Nora Hanke, Tom Warren
Visitors: 28.
Weather: Windy, cloudy, and foggy with light rain showers. Winds were from the northeast. Temperature was a steady 48 degrees.
Raptor Observations: More hawkwatchers than hawks! Counting for a bit during the intermittent drizzle, we managed to see a kestrel, sharpie, Osprey, and juvenile broad-wing zoom through, helped along by the wind.
Non-raptor Observations: A nice Palm Warbler hopped about nearby, Yellow-rumped Warblers were also around, and several ravens flew by. The local chickadees, juncos, and chipmunks enjoyed some birdseed.
Predictions: Heavy rain for Sunday and Monday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Mark Timmerman, Nora Hanke, Tom Momeyer, Tom Warren
Visitors: 114.
Weather: Windy day on the mountain with high clouds and temps in the fifties. The wind was from the northeast yet again. Beautiful sundogs and halos around the sun, looking like rainbows.
Raptor Observations: Relatively quiet day with not many birds on the wing, although we did see nine different species. One handful of broad-wings came by late in the morning, and a few Ospreys and harriers kept us entertained in the afternoon. The single Red-shouldered Hawk was a lovely adult. Non-migrating raptors consisted of a sharpie, red-tail, Turkey Vulture, and two Bald Eagles.
Non-raptor Observations: Six geese flying above Crotched Mountain in the morning. Blue-headed Vireo still hanging around.
Blue Jays: 11/56
Predictions: Rain for the next few days as a fall nor'easter arrives. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Good evening. At present, the National Weather Service is predicting that rain won't begin in the Upper Valley area until afternoon. The chapter intends to go ahead with the Bedell Bridge event beginning at 7:30am as scheduled.
Date: 9/25/26 5:01 am From: Toni Taylor <ttaylornh...> Subject: [NHBirds] Re: Egret Roost - Route 107 Seabrook
fabulous, Ashton
On Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 8:03:15â¯PM UTC-4 Ashton Almeida wrote:
> I arrived at the roost early tonight and was able to count every incoming
> egret. Staying until sunset resulted in my highest count yet for both
> species, with 357 Great Egrets and 156 Snowy Egrets. I am sure plenty
> more came in as it got dark, as I had some flying in while leaving.
>
> I encourage everyone to go see it before they take off for the season!
>
> Ashton
>
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Mike Gebo, Nora Hanke
Visitors: 135. Nice number of visitors for a Thursday with lots of folks chatting with us about hawks.
Weather: Clear blue skies and sunshine with wind from the northeast. Temps ranging from low forties to low fifties. Visibility all the way to Mount Washington. Fog rising from the Connecticut and Merrimack River valleys in the morning.
Raptor Observations: The first bird was a male kestrel who flew straight in towards Gina, hovered right above her, and then landed in a spruce behind the platform. There were two main flurries of broad-wings today with one kettle of 13 birds near North Pack and a group of 33 birds flying by close, like leaves falling from a tree in a gust of wind. Kestrels and sharpies, the next two most abundant migrants after broad-wings, zipped by throughout the day. Fun raptor observations included two juvenile harriers traveling together (one larger than the other, suggesting male and female), a beautiful Red-tail flying low right above us, a distant Turkey Vulture landing on the cliffs of North Pack, and the local Peregrine performing flips and other antics with the ravens.
Non-raptor Observations: Other bird highlights included a close Blackpoll Warbler perching in the birch sapling next to the platform, a Black-throated Blue Warbler flying around, two species of kinglets foraging in the spruces, a chickadee singing "fee-bee," and the female towhee posing for pictures.
Monarchs: 5/815
Predictions: Cloudier and windier tomorrow. We'll see what birds might be moving before the storm this weekend. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
I arrived at the roost early tonight and was able to count every incoming egret. Staying until sunset resulted in my highest count yet for both species, with 357 Great Egrets and 156 Snowy Egrets. I am sure plenty more came in as it got dark, as I had some flying in while leaving.
I encourage everyone to go see it before they take off for the season!
This coming Saturday, September 26, NH Audbon's Mascoma Chapter will be hosting a birding outing at New Hampshire's Bedell Bridge Historic Site in Haverhill.
We'll meet at the site's boat launch ramp at 7:30am. The site has varied habitats including wetlands, agricultural fields and rare, for the Upper Valley, Connecticut River riverine habitat. Previous walks have provided diverse warbler species and rusty blackbirds to name a few.
All experience levels are welcome. Bring binoculars or spotting scopes as you prefer. The terrain is level, but rain will cause conditions that make the trails wet orVery smuddy. Appropriate footwear is advised.
*Directions*: From Vermont, cross over into New Hampshire on VT Route 25 in Bradford. Very shortly after you enter New Hampshire, look for River Road on your left. Turn onto it and drive north to its junction with NH Route 10. Turn left onto NH Route 10 and drive north, passing the Haverhill Green. A quarter mile past the green, look for Meadow Lane on your left. Turn on to it and follow it down to the boat launch parking area.
From NH: Take NH Route 10, either north or south to Haverhill. Look for Meadow Lane north of the Haverhill Green and take it down to the river.
Saturday's forecast is unsettled with significant rain a distinct possibility. In the case of steady rain, the walk will be cancelled. Please check your email early Saturday morning for status updates.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Nate Marchessault, Tom Delaney
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Dot Currier, Judd Nathan, Mike Gebo, Robin Feustel, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 60 visitors throughout the day visited and enjoyed the crisp fall air, including two school groups.
Weather: The day started clear with winds from the ENE, mostly cloudy skies in the afternoon, and a chilly start to mild afternoon. Steady winds from the northeast throughout the day, getting a little calmer in the afternoon.
Raptor Observations: A decent pulse of activity mid-morning, with a trickle for the rest of the day. I had high hopes when an Osprey was right on time for the start of the count at 9 a.m., but the excitement of kettle after kettle was short-lived.
Non-raptor Observations: Early in the morning an American Pipit and my first Pine Siskin of the fall flew over. Shortly afterward, a group of cormorants was seen flying west. Other than that, a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, towhee, Yellow-rumped Warblers, and White-throated Sparrows were all observed at the watch or around the summit. Nice flight of Blue Jays early, but it was also short-lived.
Blue Jays: 27/45 Monarchs: 8/810 Ruby-throated Hummingbird: 1/70
Predictions: Similar weather is predicted for tomorrow, and potentially slightly lighter winds, which are favorable. This will be the fourth day in a row with favorable migration conditions, which typically means less birds. There will be some birds on the move for sure, but as to whether it will be a big day or not is up to the birds. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/22/26 6:22 pm From: Randy Langer <randylanger52...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Alton Bay Hawk Watch (22 Sep 2026) 70 Raptors
Rob, you humble me and make me laugh, always a pleasure to bird with you! Randy
On Tue, Sep 22, 2026, 19:42 <reports...> wrote:
> *Alton Bay Hawk Watch* > Alton, New Hampshire, USA > > *Daily Raptor Counts: *Sep 22, 2026 > *Species* Day's Count Month Total Season Total > Black Vulture 0 0 0 > Turkey Vulture 1 3 3 > Osprey 0 10 10 > Bald Eagle 2 8 8 > Northern Harrier 1 5 5 > Sharp-shinned Hawk 15 88 88 > Cooper's Hawk 0 2 2 > American Goshawk 0 0 0 > Red-shouldered Hawk 0 0 0 > Broad-winged Hawk 37 736 736 > Red-tailed Hawk 0 0 0 > Rough-legged Hawk 0 0 0 > Golden Eagle 0 0 0 > American Kestrel 6 18 18 > Merlin 1 15 15 > Peregrine Falcon 0 1 1 > Unknown Accipitrine 0 0 0 > Unknown Buteo 0 0 0 > Unknown Falcon 0 2 2 > Unknown Eagle 0 0 0 > Unknown Raptor 7 10 10 > *Total:* 70 898 898 > > Observation start time: 09:00:00 > Observation end time: 16:30:00 > Total observation time: 7.5 hours > Official Counter Rob Woodward > Observers: Randy Langer > > > *Visitors:* > 15. One lady recognized me from her prior walks up the mountain. "Yes, I'm > here hawk watching," I explained. "Hog watching?", she asked, > incredulously. (Ooh boy....) > > *Weather:* > Partly cloudy skies with high thin clouds; a light to moderate NNE wind; > cooler, 48 - 65 F. > > *Raptor Observations:* > Another good day for American Kestrel, 6 sets a new one-day high count. > Today we were treated to a visit by "Reel-'em-in" Randy who found many > distant raptors, many of which got away before they could be identified, > leading to our high UR count for the day. Randy pulled in the day's only > Norther Harrier too, but his real forte is customer relations with our > visitors. He answers their questions, takes their photographs for them, and > pats their dogs on the head. He was immediately promoted to Director, Alton > Bay Division of Meet and Greet. > > *Non-raptor Observations:* > 10 Monarchs. > > *Predictions:* > Another day of light NE winds and mild temperatures means another full day > of hawk watching. > > ------------------------------ > Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>) > More information at hawkcount.org: [Site Profile > <https://hawkcount.org/siteinfo.php?rsite=921>] [Day Summary > <https://hawkcount.org/day_summary.php?rsite=921&ryear=2026&rmonth=09&rday=22>] > [Month Summary > <https://hawkcount.org/month_summary.php?rsite=921&ryear=2026&rmonth=09>] > > ------------------------------ > > -- > To Change your e-mail delivery settings (digest, daily, no mail) visit: > https://groups.google.com/group/nhbirds/subscribe?hl=en > --- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "NHBirds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to nhbirds+<unsubscribe...> > To view this discussion visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<010101a0cb7f6c2a-d66c0be2-77b5-405c-a672-a1d87571eea5-000000...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/nhbirds/<010101a0cb7f6c2a-d66c0be2-77b5-405c-a672-a1d87571eea5-000000...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . >
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 8 hours
Official Counter: Phil Brown
Observers: Alan Bostick, Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Dot Currier, Julie Brown, Mike Gebo, Miki Foley, Susie Spikol, Tom Delaney, Tom Warren
Visitors: 95 - an excellent crowd for a Tuesday! Partly thanks to a rescheduled raptor release, in which we released rehabilitated immature American Kestrel and Merlin back to the wild. Thanks to Wings of the Dawn in Henniker, NH for the care of these birds and their continued partnership. Great to see many old friends and meet many first-time visitors, too! Thanks to Dawn, Rebecca, Gigi, Brian and Pat, Rick and Suzanna, a Harris Center 'Natural History of Autumn' course, and others for spending some time with us.
Weather: A gorgeous transition of the seasons day. Mostly sunshine interspersed with well-spaced clouds, and a cool northeast breeze. Excellent visibility, especially early and late in the day. Good conditions to produce birds!
Raptor Observations: A great morning for close windblown birds sailing across the ridge and over the summit in ones and twos. Signs of the broad-winged flight slowing down, but they're not all gone yet. Fine day for raptor diversity and numbers of the late-September species. Perhaps a changing of the guard, with the best day of the season thus far for Turkey Vultures (11), Cooper's Hawks (9), and Red-tailed Hawk (2), and another strong kestrel flight (16). Male kestrels punctuated the day with birds showing at key moments, including the first minute of the count, two circling overhead just five minutes before noon (when we released a rehabilitated kestrel back to the wild), and a final hour bird as the last raptor of the day.
Predictions: Moderate northeast winds and continued sunny skies could continue to push birds our way and give them lift. Clarry Hill had a big day today, and Pack often gets birds following these, so keep an eye out for a final big push of broad-wings ahead of this weekend's weather. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers: Randy Langer
Visitors: 15. One lady recognized me from her prior walks up the mountain. "Yes, I'm here hawk watching," I explained. "Hog watching?", she asked, incredulously. (Ooh boy....)
Weather: Partly cloudy skies with high thin clouds; a light to moderate NNE wind; cooler, 48 - 65 F.
Raptor Observations: Another good day for American Kestrel, 6 sets a new one-day high count. Today we were treated to a visit by "Reel-'em-in" Randy who found many distant raptors, many of which got away before they could be identified, leading to our high UR count for the day. Randy pulled in the day's only Norther Harrier too, but his real forte is customer relations with our visitors. He answers their questions, takes their photographs for them, and pats their dogs on the head. He was immediately promoted to Director, Alton Bay Division of Meet and Greet.
Non-raptor Observations: 10 Monarchs.
Predictions: Another day of light NE winds and mild temperatures means another full day of hawk watching. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman
Observers: Alan Bostick, Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Mark Timmerman, Mike Gebo
Visitors: 67.
Weather: Partly sunny becoming mostly cloudy. Light wind from the N/NE, strongest in the morning. A few low clouds and haze but clear in the afternoon. Temps stayed close to 50 degrees.
Raptor Observations: Another great day for migration! A slight trickle of birds in the morning soon turned into a nice stream of birds who would sometimes slow down to kettle but oftentimes kept flying by in a hurry. The broad-wing groups were often accompanied by an eagle or two. We had our first goshawk of the season fly by high overhead around 12pm. Substantially larger than the broad-wings nearby, it even seemed big next to a Bald Eagle. In the afternoon, a beautiful adult sharpie flew by fairly close.
Non-raptor Observations: The usual suspects were around today along with a late nighthawk who flew over the valley during 1 o'clock. We also saw a line of 33 geese migrating.
Monarchs: 24/787
Predictions: Some clouds tomorrow with wind from the northeast. There are still more broad-wings to come!
At noon, we are planning on releasing one or two rehabilitated raptors. Don't miss this special opportunity to see a raptor up close!
A note for parking: The State Police will be working on their tower and building where our staff/volunteers would normally park. Access to the upper parking lot tomorrow will be two-way traffic at the summit loop, so please keep left and watch for incoming cars. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/21/26 6:03 pm From: Dan Hubbard <danielhubbard...> Subject: [NHBirds] Seacoast Chapter bird walk Strafford County Farm Complex, Dover, Sep 20, 2026 50 species
Eight birders joined me for a bird walk at the Strafford County Complex in Dover on Sunday. It was a bit cool and wet, but a good variety of species were found. Best species was probably a Philadelphia Vireo. Juli Tyson did a fine job keeping the eBird tally below and scope man Sam Stoddard once again provided necessary viewing enhancement. Dan Hubbard, Rochester
Strafford County Farm Complex, Dover, Strafford, New Hampshire, US
Sep 20, 2026 7:58â¯AM - 11:43â¯AM
Protocol: Traveling
1.031 mile(s)
50 species (+1 other taxa)
Mallard 2
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 12
Mourning Dove 1
Ruby-throated Hummingbird 1
American Herring Gull 20
Green Heron 1
Great Blue Heron 1
Osprey 1
Cooper's Hawk 1
Bald Eagle 1
Red-shouldered Hawk 1
Red-tailed Hawk 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2
Downy Woodpecker 2
Hairy Woodpecker 2
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 3
diurnal raptor sp. 1
Eastern Phoebe 9
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Philadelphia Vireo 1
Blue Jay 15
American Crow 6
Common Raven 1
Black-capped Chickadee 6
Tufted Titmouse 1
White-breasted Nuthatch 4
Northern House Wren 2
Carolina Wren 1
European Starling 25
Gray Catbird 11
Northern Mockingbird 1
Eastern Bluebird 14
American Robin 3
Cedar Waxwing 32
House Sparrow 3
House Finch 4
American Goldfinch 3
Chipping Sparrow 3
White-throated Sparrow 9
Savannah Sparrow 1
Song Sparrow 5
Lincoln's Sparrow 1
Red-winged Blackbird 2
Common Yellowthroat 3
Northern Yellow Warbler 1
Palm Warbler 1
Pine Warbler 2
Prairie Warbler 3
Northern Cardinal 7
Rose-breasted Grosbeak 1
Date: 9/21/26 4:47 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, September 21, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for September 21st, 2026.
A COMMON RINGED PLOVER was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on
September 19th and 20th, and 21st.
A LITTLE GULL was seen from the Coast Guard station on the Piscataqua River
in New Castle on September 17th.
4 POMARINE JAEGERS, a SABINEâS GULL, an ATLANTIC PUFFIN, a RAZORBILL, and a
LEACHâS STORM-PETREL were seen at Jeffreyâs Ledge in NH waters on September
17th.
A LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER was seen in the Hampton Salt Marsh Conservation
Area on September 19th.
A STILT SANDPIPER was seen in pools just south of Odiorne Point State Park
in Rye on September 20th.
A WESTERN SANDPIPER was seen from Depot Road in Hampton Falls on September
19th, and 1 was seen at Odiorne Point State Park in Rye on the 20th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a LITTLE BLUE HERON from Depot Road in
Hampton Falls on September 19th.
A TRICOLORED HERON X SNOWY EGRET (HYBRID) was seen in Hampton on September
16th.
There was an unconfirmed report of 4 FORSTERâS TERNS from Hilton Park at
Dover Point on September 16th.
A WESTERN CATTLE-EGRET was seen along Mammoth Road in
Pelham on September 19th and 20th.
A juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON continued to be seen at Star Island,
one of the Isles of Shoals, and was last reported on September 19th.
A juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was reported from Mine Falls Park in
Nashua on September 19th.
3 BLACK VULTURES were seen in Durham, 3 were seen in Goffstown, 3 were seen
in Greenland, and 2 were seen in Lebanon, all during the past week.
There was an unconfirmed report of a SANDHILL CRANE from the Moore Dam in
Littleton on September 14th.
A juvenile RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was seen at Sunset Farm in Greenland on
September 17th.
A GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER was seen on the Ferry Way Trail at Great Bay
National Wildlife Refuge in Newington on September 17th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a CONNECTICUT WARBLER from Meadow Pond
in Hampton on September 18th.
A CANADA WARBLER was seen in the Second College Grant on September 18th.
A NORTHERN YELLOW WARBLER was seen in Lyme on September 20th.
An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen in was seen at the Concord Community
Gardens on Birch Street on September 19th.
A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 19th, 1
was seen at the Concord Community Gardens on Birch Street on September 20th,
and 1 was seen at Morrillâs Farm in Penacook on September 19th.
A WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW was seen at the Isles of Shoals on September 19th.
2 FOX SPAROWS were seen in the White Mountains on September 15th.
A lingering BALTIMORE ORIOLE was seen at Dame Hill Road in Orford on
September 15th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a WHITE-EYED VIREO from Odiorne Point
State Park in Rye on September 19th.
An EASTERN WARBLING VIREO was seen in Pittsburg on September 18th.
2 DICKCISSELS were seen at Goss Farm in Rye, 2 were reported from Star
Island, and there were reports of single DICKCISSELS seen in Pittsburg,
Seabrook, and Concord, all during the past week.
A few YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHERS, ALDER FLYCATCHERS, VEERVS, and WOOD
THRUSHES were reported during the past week.
9 late-migrating CHIMNEY SWIFTS were seen at Pack Monadnock in Peterborough
on September 17th.
COMMON NIGHTHAWK migration has tapered off already with over 10,000 (about
4,000 each site) recorded by observers at Storrs Street in Concord,
Franklin Falls in Franklin, and Powder Mill Pond in Hancock since August 17
th.
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 13,700 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put âRare
Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
This coming Saturday, September 26, the Mascoma Chapter of NH Audubon will host a birding outing at Bedell Covered Bridge State Historic Site in Haverhill, NH.
We'll gather in the parking area at the site's boat launch at 7:30am. The walk will be hosted by members of the Mascoma Chapter's steering committee. All levels of birding experience are welcome. The terrain is level facilitating easy walking. Bring binoculars or a scope as you prefer.
The site offers a variety of habitats including wetlands, agricultural fields and riverine forest woodlands. Past walks have produced sightings of migrating warblers, rusty blackbirds and waterfowl to name a few.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 8
Weather: Some lake fog at first, clearing off by 9:30, a 2 tiered cloud cover, with low white puffy and high thin; a nice steady light NNE wind unil calm by 3:00; warm and mild, 52 - 67 F.
Raptor Observations: First bird was a kestrel that hovered overhead followed minutes later by another kestrel that hovered then stooped me and almost landed just yards away. The 3rd bird of the day was another falcon, this one a hulking Peregrine streaming past Mt. Major. It was a great falcon day, with a new single-day high count of 11. Another late Broad-wing fight with the biggest kettle of the day at 3:10. A good species list with 10 raptors.
Non-raptor Observations: Towhees are still calling, visits by bluebirds and a Hermit Thrush, 6 Monarchs.
Predictions: Similar weather tomorow will bring more Broad-wings but the peak is past. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Date: 9/21/26 6:31 am From: 'Steve Mirick' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Add one species - 93!
Correction! Add one more species.
Ben Griffith and Robyn Prieto had
Philadelphia Vireo - 3 together in alder swamp. Likely a continuing
group for the last several days. Jane and I couldn't find them! :-(
Steve Mirick
Bradford, MA
On 9/21/2026 9:25 AM, Steve Mirick wrote:
> Jane and I helped out with the Odiorne Point State Park Bioblitz
> yesterday. This was the 24rd year for this annual event and we've
> made it every year except one.  The event is run by the Seacoast
> Science Center and the goal is to try to record as many species of
> living organisms in the park in one day. The purpose is to educate
> the public and to expose people to the different organisms that can be
> found in such a small area. There were experts in the field all day
> and short field trips every hour during the day.
>
> Jane and I focused on birds, but we have now expanded and (weather
> permitting) spend a large part of the day searching for insects. Â Our
> track record has been pretty bad for insect weather in the last few
> years and this year continued that trend. Overcast with southerly
> winds shifting to the southeast and strengthening. But the forecast
> of afternoon rain held off and we only had some very light drizzle and
> the visibility offshore was excellent. There weren't lots of migrants
> in the park, but there was good diversity and the overall bird list
> was very good with 92 species well above last year's poor species list
> of only 70. The high is about 100 species from 2021. The insects
> (not surprisingly given the weather) were terrible; however, we
> managed to get a few species. Thanks to help from other birders/insect
> fanatics including Jason Lambert, Jacqui Shuster, Robyn Prieto, Ben
> Griffith, David Blezard, and others.
>
> Birds - 92 species (including several not seen by Jane and I)
> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Sep 20, 2026 7:01â¯AM - 5:01â¯PM
>
> Canada Goose 12
> Mallard X
> American Black Duck 2
> Northern Pintail 2 Two female type birds flew in and landed on ocean
> near Science Center.
> Common Eider 24
> Surf Scoter 6 Migrating.
> White-winged Scoter 5 Migrating.
> scoter sp. 32 Small groups migrating.
> Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 8 Together at wooden bridge. A new high
> count for me at Odiorne! ð
> Mourning Dove 6
> Ruby-throated Hummingbird X
> Black-bellied Plover 2
> American Golden-Plover 2 Two juveniles in pannes south of Odiorne.
> Barely visible from boundary of Odiorne.
> Killdeer 2
> COMMON RINGED PLOVER 1 FIRST STATE RECORD!!!! Bird found by Stuart
> Varney on 9/19, but not relocated that day. Refound at first light by
> Jason Lambert in same spot where Stuart had it the previous day. In
> cove north of the Seacoast Science Center in vicinity of seal carcass.
> Apparently by itself at first, but joined by a few Semipalmated
> Plovers. FANTASTIC WAY to start out the Bioblitz! First bird of the
> day! Close views of toe webbing and recorded vocalizing! Seen
> off-and-on by many other birders over the course of the day.
> Semipalmated Plover 5
> Spotted Sandpiper 3
> Lesser Yellowlegs 6
> Greater Yellowlegs 2
> STILT SANDPIPER 1 Continuing juvenile in Shelduck pools. FIRST RECORD
> FOR BIOBLITZ.
> Least Sandpiper 1
> Pectoral Sandpiper 1 In Shelduck pools.
> WESTERN SANDPIPER X Photographed by Kyle Wilmarth. FIRST RECORD FOR
> BIOBLITZ.
> Semipalmated Sandpiper 14
> Black Guillemot 1 Maybe 2.
> Bonaparte's Gull 42
> Laughing Gull 7
> Ring-billed Gull 37
> American Herring Gull 20
> Great Black-backed Gull 4
> Lesser Black-backed Gull 4 Including "Woody" back in his usual spot.
> Plus 3 flybys late in day.
> CASPIAN TERN 5 Two groups of 2 and a singleton migrating. Now an
> expected/hoped for bird on the Bioblitz. Always migrating by.
> Forster's Tern XÂ Offshore flyby reported by Robyn Prieto
> Common Tern 17
> tern sp. 7 Distant flock in harbor
> Common Loon 6 A couple migrating overhead.
> Great Cormorant X
> Double-crested Cormorant 391 A few flocks migrating. Lots in Little
> Harbor.
> Snowy Egret 4
> Great Egret 3
> Great Blue Heron 4
> Osprey 2 Migrating.
> Bald Eagle X
> Great Horned Owl X. Flyby spotted by Ben Griffith in the middle of
> the afternoon!
> Belted Kingfisher 2
> Red-bellied Woodpecker 2
> Downy Woodpecker 3
> Hairy Woodpecker X
> Pileated Woodpecker X
> Northern Flicker 4
> Merlin 1 Migrating.
> Peregrine Falcon 1 Migrating from offshore.
> Least Flycatcher X
> Eastern Phoebe 6
> Red-eyed Vireo 6
> Blue Jay 16
> American Crow 6
> Black-capped Chickadee 9
> Tufted Titmouse 3
> Tree Swallow 3
> Golden-crowned Kinglet 3
> White-breasted Nuthatch 7
> Red-breasted Nuthatch 9
> Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 1
> Northern House Wren 2
> Carolina Wren 3
> Gray Catbird 6
> Northern Mockingbird 1
> Eastern Bluebird 6
> Swainson's Thrush 2
> American Robin 9
> Cedar Waxwing 13
> House Finch 6
> American Goldfinch 2
> Chipping Sparrow 5
> White-throated Sparrow 7
> Savannah Sparrow 2
> Song Sparrow 4
> Northern Waterthrush X
> Black-and-white Warbler 3
> Tennessee Warbler 1
> Nashville Warbler X
> Common Yellowthroat 3
> American Redstart 3
> Cape May Warbler 2
> Magnolia Warbler 1
> Northern Yellow Warbler 1
> Blackpoll Warbler 8
> Black-throated Blue Warbler X
> Pine Warbler 2
> Black-throated Green Warbler 2
> Wilson's Warbler 2
> Northern Cardinal 2
> Rose-breasted Grosbeak 1
>
> Butterflies (5 species)
> -------------------------------
> Mourning Cloak
> Red Admiral
> American Lady
> Clouded Sulphur
> Monarch
>
> Damselflies & Dragonflies (2 species)
> --------------------------------------------------
> Common Green Darner
> Cherry-faced Meadowhawk
>
> Robber Flies (0 species)
> -------------------------------
> :-(
>
> Other fauna of interest
> -------------------------------
> Four-banded Stink Bug Wasp
> https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/402048998 >
> Margined Calligrapher
> https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/402048999 >
>
> Steve Mirick (for group)
> Bradford, MA
Observation start time: 06:45:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 9.25 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay, Mark Timmerman
Observers: Alan Bostick, Amy Maurer, Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Cindy Telley, David Wiedner, Dot Currier, John Welch, Judd Nathan, Kate McKay, Katrina Fenton, Levi Burford, Mark Timmerman, Mike Gebo, with many more...
Visitors: 201. It was great to share the day with so many other hawkwatchers and visitors; lots of excited exclamations, big smiles, and sheer wonder.
Weather: Crisp September day with excellent visibility all the way to Mount Washington. Mostly sunny at first, with high cloud cover moving in late morning. Light northerly breeze at the start; otherwise mostly calm. Temps rising from low forties to high fifties.
Raptor Observations: Woohoo! Ideal weather conditions, combined with perfect timing, resulted in an incredible, record-breaking day on the mountain. Activity picked up shortly after 11am, with kettle after kettle getting called out across the sky and being fed by seemingly endless streams of birds from the east. An exceptional 4,435 broad-wings passed by during the 12 o'clock hour alone, including one long river of birds flying low behind the trees near the summit. There were many amazing kettles in the hundreds that often appeared over North Pack or the Uncanoonuc hills and re-formed right above us. The last kettle of 210 birds came through during the 3 o'clock hour and then no more raptors were seen after that. We ended with a new single day high count for broad-wings, breaking the previous record of 5,208 broad-wings in 2011. And we have now passed 13,000 total raptors for the season!
Non-raptor Observations: Several woodpecker species including a Northern Flicker perching on top of a spruce, Pileated Woodpecker flying by low, and juvenile Downy Woodpecker foraging in a birch. One Ring-billed Gull flying towards the east.
Monarchs: 87/763 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: 2/69
Predictions: Rain tomorrow with better weather coming Monday. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/19/26 6:19 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 0 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Each year we try to count until we hit zero to determine the duration of the migration season. After a final one hour vigil, finally that day came today, fully 11 days after I called the season over on August 8. Since that "end" we added almost another 1,000 nighthawks to the season total.
The final is count is just 135 short of 8,000. Many thanks to all who heped out, we'll see you next year.
Rob WoodwardLaconia, NH
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 62. One poor lady, she couldn't see the kettle I was counting out loud. "Where are they?", she cried, missing the spectacle. "Up in the sky.", I answered. "Are they flying?", she asked. "Yes, maam, they are flying."
Weather: Clear to start followed by increasing high clouds; light NE wind turning SW by 11:40, calm at times; 49 - 62 F.
Raptor Observations: Ospreys and Sharp-shins got off to an early start but Broad-wings didn't get going until the 10 o'clock hour and then slowed way down in the afternon. The day was saved by a late surge starting at 2:45 with kettles and streamers along the east side. I have reason to believe this will be the peak day here for Broad-winged Hawks. I wanted to stay later but I had to get to my night job.
Non-raptor Observations: First siskin of the fall.
Predictions: Rain tomorrow cancels, north winds Monday resumes the count. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Date: 9/19/26 1:15 pm From: Roger Frieden <roger...> Subject: [NHBirds] Spruce Grouse in Pittsburg
Early this morning we actually, finally saw a Spruce Grouse. And hard to believe, we saw two! It was standing on East Inlet Road exactly where Bob Quinn says it should be in his North Country birding book. And then a few hundred feet farther along, a second one showed up on the other side of the road. The two guys in the pick-up truck behind us who had to wait on the road while we enjoyed the birds were very happy for us.
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 16:30:00
Total observation time: 8.75 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Alan Bostick, Amy Maurer, Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson,
Dot Currier, Gail Coffey, Gerry Coffey, Henry Walters,
Hillary Siener, Judd Nathan, Julie Brown, Katrina Fenton,
Kevin O'Neill, Mark Wilson, Mike Gebo, Nan O�Neill,
Nancy Moreau, Nora Hanke, Phil Brown, Tom Delaney,
Tom Momeyer, with many more...
Visitors:
75. Thanks to everyone for stopping by, and thanks to all the observers for
helping spot birds (and monarchs)!
Weather:
Mix of sun and clouds with wind from the northwest. Temps in the high
fixities and low sixties.
Raptor Observations:
Steady trickle of birds throughout the day, with several small kettles
popping up here and there. In the morning, one broad-wing seemed to kite in
the breeze out in front of Pack (unusual behavior for a broad-wing). We
also enjoyed watching the local adult Peregrine rile up the ravens, several
Merlins and kestrels catching and eating dragonflies on the wing, and an
adult Bald Eagle playing with the ravens over North Pack. It was the
biggest day so far for sharpies (93) and kestrels (19).
Non-raptor Observations:
The female towhee came in close to munch on seeds with the juncos. A
Golden-crowned Kinglet, Brown Creeper, and Blue-headed Vireo were all heard
singing in the morning. Butterfly sightings included American Copper and
Mourning Cloak.
Predictions:
Looks like great weather tomorrow with more sunshine and much lighter
winds, hopefully allowing for many thermals.
Unfortunately this Sunday's Raptor Release is cancelled due to rain, but
the new plan is to release a kestrel or two on Tuesday (the 22nd) at noon.
Also, stay tuned for a possible Raptor Release later in the season!
========================================================================
Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>)
Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at:
www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 16:00:00 Total observation time: 7.5 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 28, one of whom recognized me as a bird watcher. Not a hawk watcher but close enough.
Weather: Clear skies to start with increasing white puffy cold-front clouds by 11:45 then decreasing at 12:30 with more cloud cover later in the afternoon. Light NW winds to start increasing to modest by 10:30 then strong and at times gusty by 11:15, with strongest winds at 3:00. Warm pleasant hawk-watching temperatures of 59 - 71 F.
Raptor Observations: Today's hawk watching well illustrated how great a hawk watch can be with not thousands, not hundreds, but dozens of raptors. Bald Eagle, flying high and straight away to the southwest, a clear migrant. Osprey, 2, with their white underparts and M wings betraying their identity. Northern Harrier, 2, one late at 3:30 right up close at and then below eye level. Broad-winged Hawk, a swirling kettle that hawk watchers live for. Sharp-shinned Hawks riding thermals up to thousands of feet in just minutes. Merlin, 7! One short of tying the one-day high count record of 8 set on this date in 2020.
Non-raptor Observations: First Ruby-crowned Kinglet of the fall. Only 3 Monarchs compared to 56 yesterday. Do they favor light SW winds?
Predictions: They say the best hawk flight is the day after the cold front, less wind, better thermals. If so, tomorrow could be the peak day of the season at Alton Bay. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
We have some other excellent articles this month. Cameron Johnson reviews the Summer 2026 Birding Season<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/season-summary-summer-2026/> with rarities including a Black-necked Stilt and an analysis of Bridled Terns in New England this summer.
And, of course, we have some fun field notes, from a mob of Barn Swallows to unexpected bobcat kittens. See these on our "From the Field<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/from-the-field/>" section.
You never know what birding in New Hampshire might bring!
About Joy of Birding
Joy of Birding is the online home of New Hampshire Bird Records, a publication that has documented New Hampshire's bird sightings, seasons, and birding stories for more than 40 years. The transition from print to online has allowed us to continue sharing the stories of New Hampshire's birds while making them freely available to everyone-from experienced birders to those just beginning to explore the world of birds.
Visit the Joy of Birding (https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/) homepage to explore the latest articles and sign up for our free monthly newsletter, featuring new stories, seasonal highlights, and birding news from around the Granite State delivered directly to your inbox.
Happy Birding!
Grace
Grace McCulloch
She/Her
Community Science Project Leader
New Hampshire Audubon
84 Silk Farm Road
Concord, NH 03301
www.nhaudubon.org<http://www.nhaudubon.org/> <gmcculloch...><mailto:<gmcculloch...>
Twenty-one birders joined me for an interesting bird walk at Pickering Ponds trails in Rochester. Birding has been rather slow at Pickering so expectations were not high, but the weather became gorgeous and the birds started to appear. The best bird was probably a Yellow-billed Cuckoo during the walk's home stretch (maybe 2-went in opposite directions, so only one was located and photographed). A Philadelphia Vireo vireo also was seen and photographed and provided a life bird for some. A varied list of 50 species provided the final tally for the walk. Thanks to Sheila Graydon for keeping the eBird list below and Sam Stoddard for being the scope man. Dan Hubbard, Rochester
Pickering Ponds, Rochester, Strafford, New Hampshire, US
Sep 16, 2026 7:53â¯AM - 12:57â¯PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.929 mile(s)
Checklist Comments:
50 species
Canada Goose 18
Wood Duck 2
Mallard 31
American Black Duck 1
Green-winged Teal 1
Hooded Merganser 2
Wild Turkey 6
Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon) 1
Mourning Dove 5
Yellow-billed Cuckoo 1
Ruby-throated Hummingbird 1
Solitary Sandpiper 1
Greater Yellowlegs 3
Ring-billed Gull 1
Double-crested Cormorant 2
Green Heron 5
Great Blue Heron 5
Turkey Vulture 4
Bald Eagle 1
Broad-winged Hawk 1
Red-tailed Hawk 2
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
Downy Woodpecker 4
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 1
Eastern Phoebe 5
Blue-headed Vireo 1
Philadelphia Vireo 1
Eastern Warbling Vireo 4
Red-eyed Vireo 9
Blue Jay 14
American Crow 1
Common Raven 5
Black-capped Chickadee 30
Tufted Titmouse 7
White-breasted Nuthatch 13
Red-breasted Nuthatch 5
Gray Catbird 19
Northern Mockingbird 1
American Robin 1
Cedar Waxwing 17
American Goldfinch 15
Song Sparrow 2
Black-and-white Warbler 5
American Redstart 2
Northern Parula 2
Blackpoll Warbler 1
Pine Warbler 2
Northern Cardinal 4
Observation start time: 07:45:00 Observation end time: 13:30:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Jim McCoy, Katrina Fenton, Mike Gebo, Nikko Gagnon
Visitors: 53.
Weather: Cloudy with a light variable breeze and temps in the sixties. Conditions were very hazy. Rain started in the early afternoon, ending the count early.
Raptor Observations: The first few hours of the morning were filled with small groups of broad-wings that usually kettled up in the east before spilling over North Pack. A few kettles were nice and close! A couple Ospreys, one Peregrine Falcon, and twenty sharpies were the only other migrants. One sharpie was attracted by Gina and came in really close, to the delight of onlookers.
Non-raptor Observations: The first White-throated Sparrow hopped among the juncos. Other highlights included nine Chimney Swifts, a flock of Cedar Waxwings, and a flyover American Pipit. Monarchs have now passed last year's season tally of 512.
Monarchs: 84/540
Predictions: The weather is looking nice tomorrow with sunshine and northwest winds coming after tonight's rain. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Dear Martin and NH birders,
I'll put in one small piece of the answer. The NH Rare Bird Committee, of which I am chair by some cosmic error, reviews such records every year (we did our review of 2025 birds about a month ago) thanks to irreplaceable Kathy Frieden who compiles the rare sightings for us. So at some point next summer, we will review the various 2026 sightings and vote on whether to accept the skua as a first state record. We normally start with the first eBird report, but given the significance of this record I imagine that we will review every photo we can find and reach out to experts beyond New Hampshire, which we do almost annually with some sightings.
Yours,
Kurk
Kurk Dorsey
Durham
________________________________
From: <nhbirds...> <nhbirds...> on behalf of Martin Mick <mdmick01...>
Sent: Thursday, September 17, 2026 3:12 PM
To: NHBirds <nhbirds...>
Subject: [NHBirds] Chilean Skua
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the University System. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Greetings: It would be interesting to hear the status of the AMAZING sighting last week. Has it been accepted by NHA or ABA or AOU? What is the process? I get the sense some of these things take a long time to be resolved...
Greetings: It would be interesting to hear the status of the AMAZING sighting last week. Has it been accepted by NHA or ABA or AOU? What is the process? I get the sense some of these things take a long time to be resolved...
Date: 9/16/26 4:48 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 194 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
I got there a little late tonight, held up by my day job. Dan made sure I never heard the end of it. And no chocolate! Birds were on the move northbound soon after 5:00 and continued right through 6:00. More late straglers these are not.
Tomorrow will probably be rained out, Friday has unfavorable strong NW winds so I might be back Saturday. We have to see this through to the end.
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 15:15:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Rob Woodward
Observers:
Visitors: 13. Hurray to the one who asked: "Are you watching birds again?"
Weather: Mostly clear to start with increasing high clouds in the afternoon; pretty steady light WSW wind; warm, 58 - 75 F.
Raptor Observations: A fine day for hawk watching high atop Pine Mountain here in Alton Bay. Finally the siege was broken today and the first kettles of the season appeared, one 40 strong, most of the others in the 12 to 20 range. A good count for Broad-winged Hawk but where were the falcons and the Sharp-shins?? I had to leave a little early to tend to my night job.
Non-raptor Observations: Some fine kettles of Turkey Vultures, a late Chimney Swift, 13 Monarchs and a Green Snake - spectacular. Not many reptiles up here. Well, I'll leave that one alone.
Predictions: If the rain holds off until 2 or 3 I can get a count in. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Rob Woodward (<toucanrob...>)
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 16:30:00 Total observation time: 8.5 hours
Official Counter: Nate Marchessault
Observers: Alan Bostick, Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Katrina Fenton, Mark Timmerman, Mike Gebo, Robin Feustel, Tom Momeyer, with many more...
Visitors: 77 visitors. Lots of folks popping in to see some hawks! Many hikers and sightseers stopped by to chat about raptors throughout the day.
Weather: A nice September day with temps geting to 20C by the afternoon, light westerly breeze, and variable cloud cover. Conditions a bit hazy, but not too bad.
Raptor Observations: A trickle of raptors throughout the day with two nice little pulses. Toward the end of the day it seemed like things were slowing down, when our biggest movement of broad-wings for the day flew through, with 107 birds.
Non-raptor Observations: 1 Common Loon, 5 Double-crested Cormorants, and 1 Tree Swallow were other birds on the move today. A few Golden-crowned Kinglets, juncos, Yellow-rumped Warblers, and several warbler sp. around the hawkwatch throughout the day. Lots of dragonflies flitting about.
Monarchs: 27/456 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: 1/64
Predictions: With the little pulse we had late in the day, it's possible there could be some birds moving in the morning, but by mid-afternoon rain is forecast to move in which should shut down most raptor movement.
With the front moving through, Friday is looking pretty promising! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nate Marchessault (<nate...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Observation start time: 07:00:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 10 hours
Official Counter: Phil Brown
Observers: Alan Bostick, Chuck Carlson, David Wiedner, Howard Mansfield, Jason Ruckdeshel, Jim McCoy, Julie Brown, Katrina Fenton, Kevin O'Neill, Lillian Stokes, Mark Timmerman, Meade Cadot, Mike Gebo, Miki Foley, Nan O\'Neill, Sy Montgomery, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer, Tony Troppito, with many more...
Visitors: 78. Good to see so many hawk watching friends and new raptor enthusiasts, especially young birders, Isaiah, Claire, and family. Thanks to the WMUR film crew, who witnessed a fantastic flight with us today while filming an episode of NH Chronicle and capturing the magic of migration with us.
Big shout out to volunteer (and former staff counter) Katrina Fenton, who found innumerable distant kettles, helped manage the broad-winged and monarch counts, and shared lots of knowledge and enthusiasm with visitors all day. And thanks to the so many other dedicated members of our team for doing the same!
Weather: Relatively calm day with abundant thermals and blue skies. Cool start, but a hot sun that gave birds plenty of lift, which continued well into the late afternoon. 43-61 F. Winds light and variable, which even when southerly, were not enough to impede migration.
Raptor Observations: The day we all hoped it would be - at least in number - with 2,626 Broad-winged Hawks, more than doubling the season's tally. Biggest day since 9/14/25, when 3,160 broad-wings were counted. A steady push with big kettles of several dozen to a few hundred, with the biggest push in the afternoon, especially the noon and 3 pm hours. Many kettles were quite distant ('scope specks'), but most notably, a group of 494 birds split off in two directions around 330 pm and astounded viewers, kettling up several times during their slow movements across the sky.
Another THREE Black Vultures were seen drifting off to the east and not determined to be migrants.
Ospreys totaled 31, including 24 seen between 4-6 pm alone. This was the biggest osprey day since the same date in 2024, when 52 sailed past.
Predictions: This is likely just the beginning of the Broad-winged peak, and conditions look favorable with light southwest winds and continued sunny conditions, generating thermals across the landscape. Will it come close to today's total is anyone's guess, so come out to help Nate and our volunteers find hawks! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Phil Brown (<brown...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/15/26 4:39 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 274 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
I should stick with nighthawks and leave raptors to the rest. Another remarkable late season count.  Note that these are not late stragglers flying by after the end of the season. These are the season. Numbers are not diminishing. With no end in sight.
It isn't much of a stretch to predict a similar count tomorrow. The season total now stands at 7,641.
Date: 9/15/26 4:00 pm From: fkeenanhome <fkeenanhome...> Subject: [NHBirds] Nighthawks over the Merrimack- Nashua
Just saw 5 nighthawks dancing through the sky, flying south over the Merrimack from the bridge between Nashua and Hudson.Fran KeenanSent from my Galaxy
Observation start time: 07:30:00 Observation end time: 17:00:00 Total observation time: 9.5 hours
Official Counter: Kate McKay
Observers: Alan Bostick, Amy Maurer, Annamarie Saenger, Chuck Carlson, Dot Currier, Henry Walters, John Welch, Judd Nathan, Katrina Fenton, Mike Gebo, Phil Brown, Sy Montgomery, Tom Delaney, Tom Momeyer
Visitors: 131 including a group from Peterborough Elementary School and some homeschoolers.
Weather: Mostly blue sky with a stiff northwest wind. Temps ranging from 48 to 55 degrees.
Raptor Observations: The strong winds once again appeared to dampen activity. A few birds flew high, some birds flew low, and a lot of birds flew in-between. We had nice views of some close adult broad-wings. There were no kettles to speak of.
Non-raptor Observations: A late Chimney Swift flew over and a Common Nighthawk went by just after 2pm. Warblers included a male American Redstart and a couple of Black-throated Green Warblers.
Monarchs: 75/327 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds: 2/59
Predictions: Southerly wind direction but the winds are light and the broad-wings are eager. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Kate McKay (<northernjay444...>) Pack Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory information may be found at: www.harriscenter.org
Date: 9/14/26 12:24 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, September 14m 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for September 14th, 2026.
A CHILEAN SKUA was seen at Jeffreyâs Ledge in NH waters on September 8th.
This sighting appears to be the first record for North American and perhaps
the first for the Northern Hemisphere! Perhaps the rarest bird ever
reported in New Hampshire! Many photographs were taken of this bird,
allowing extensive study of this rarity.
A LONG-TAILED JAEGER and a POMARINE JAEGER were seen at Jeffreyâs Ledge
seen at Jeffreyâs Ledge in NH waters on September 8th.
A CASP:IAN TERN was seen in Plaice Cove in Hampton on September 14th, and
10 COMMON TERNS were seen in Squam Lake-West on September 10thâ
3 EARED GREBES were seen in Hampton Harbor on multiple days during the past
week.
3 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen at the Isles of Shoals on September 8th.
7 BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPERS were seen at the southeastern end of the Pease
International Tradeport on September 10th.
A HUDSONIAN WHIMBREL was seen at Elm Brook Recreational Area in Hopkinton
on September 12th.
A HUDSONIAN GODWIT and a LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER were seen in Hampton Harbor
on a few days during the past week.
3 RED PHALAROPE S were seen at Jeffreyâs Ledge in NH waters on September 8th
.
A STILT SANDPIPER was seen in Rochester on September 11th.
A BAIRDâS SANDPIPER a WESTERN SANDPIPER, and 2 DUNLINS were seen in Plaice
Cove in Hampton on several days during the past week.
A GREAT CORMORANT was seen at Crescent Lake in Wolfeboro
on September 12th.
A juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was seen at Star Island, one of the
Isles of Shoals, on September 12th.
A LITTLE BLUE HERON was seen at Parsons Creek in coastal Rye on September 9
th.
2 GREEN HERONS were seen along the Upper Coos Recreational
Trail in Colebrook on September 12th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen in Northwood, 1 was seen at Stratham, 1 was seen
in Barnstead, and 2 were seen in Ashland, all during the past week.
An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen in Wentworthâs Location on September 8th.
GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHERS were reported from Durham, Newmarket, Pittsfield,
East Kingston, Concord, and Strafford, all during the past week
EASTERN KINGBIRDS were reported from Keene, Whitefield, and Rye, during the
past week.
2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Hampton Beach on September 10th.
A LARK SPARROW was seen along Middle Road in Hancock on September 11th.
A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen at Goss Farm in Rye on September 14th and 12
th.
A WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW was seen on Mt, Tom in the White Mountains on
September 9th.
2 ORCHARD ORIOLES were seen along Mountain Pond Road in Errol on September
12th.
There was an unconfirmed report of a SEDGE WREN from Woodmont Orchard in
Hollis on September 7th.
A DICKCISSEL was heard at South Street cemetery in Portsmouth on September
11th.
Several BLACK-BILLED CUCKOOS were reported on September 12th including 1
from Fort Hill Wildlife Management Area in Stratford, 1 at Bedell Bridge
State Historic Site in Haverhill, and 1 at Airport Marsh in Whitefield.
5 late-migrating CHIMNEY SWIFTS were seen along Market Street in Portsmouth
on September 12thâ
COMMON NIGHTHAWK migration has already begun with over 10,000 (about 4,000
each site) recorded by observers at Storrs Street in Concord, Franklin
Falls in Franklin, and Powder Mill Pond in Hancock since August 17th.
Volunteer-observers are welcome to assist!
Fall season hawk migration observation has started and observers have
counted over 2,000 raptors so far (mainly BROAD-WINGED HAWKS) from the Pack
Monadnock Raptor Migration Observatory. Be sure to visit and help the
official counters!
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put âRare
Birdâ in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubonâs website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if itâs outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read âSo You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report Itâ
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshireâs
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinnâs detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 9/13/26 5:19 pm From: 'Rob Woodward' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] 97 Common Nighthawks - Franklin Falls
Despite the murky weather with a very low ceiling (~500 ft), nighthawks flew tonight, southbound into a calm to very light south wind, mostly sticking close to the river.
The significance of this count is that it ties the latest date for a count by a systematic watch. Concord counted 10 on this date in 2020. The average end date in Concord is the 7th. Anything counted after today makes history.
Tomorrow is a hawkwatching day but Tuesday could see more nighthawks pass on south winds.
After a couple of weeks away from checking the egret roost, I passed by on my way home from work the other day and noticed a significant increase in the number of birds.
I stopped to count tonight, and I was not wrong. While the Great Egret population has remained in similar numbers at 214, the Snowy Egret count has more than doubled, reaching a high of 143.
Along with the egrets, I had 7 Common Nighthawks circling and feeding along the powerline cut and over the pond.
Date: 9/13/26 11:03 am From: Jon Woolf <jsw...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Re: NH Audubon Pelagics??
On 9/13/2026 7:56 AM, NHAtlatl wrote:
> One option to get more people involved: If there are two Fall
> Pelagics, an individual only gets to go on one.
>
> I agree that the method of sign-up and notification has not changed,
> but the rate of sign-up has. I was checking the Seacoast Chapter site
> every morning before work. One morning there was no sign-up available,
> the next morning it was full. The notice went up here 1.5 hours after
> I had checked, but I don't monitor this chat group closely. Same
> happened on another walk I had been looking at. That's basically an
> effect of birding moving from a handful of Nerds to Mainstream culture.
Yes, this is the single biggest change I've seen over the years since I
started organizing these trips. For the first few years we struggled to
get enough sign-ups. But after it became possible to sign up online,
the trips started consistently selling out within a few days of tickets
going on sale. I'd like to make the group size bigger, but those who
have been aboard /Granite State/ for a sold-out whale watch know that if
you put more than fifty or so people on the boat, it starts to feel
crowded.
Date: 9/13/26 10:58 am From: Jon Woolf <jsw...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Re: NH Audubon Pelagics??
On 9/12/2026 7:29 PM, Steve Mirick wrote:
> A couple of points....
>
> I would like to personally commend Holly (and the Seacoast Chapter)
> for all of the hard work they do AS VOLUNTEERS to make field trips and
> programs happen. Without them, there would be no trips!!! And there
> is a lot of work! The volunteers for NH Audubon are incredible people!!!
I'll second this. When NHA (the state organization) decided not to run
a fall trip (a decision with which I did not agree), Holly stepped up
and took on running both fall trips.
> With respect to pelagic trips, it certainly is a shame that we can't
> get more going. Maybe we can try to bump it up to 3 trips next
> fall....but this will only work if the Captain of the Granite State
> can find time in his schedule and he's been reluctant to do this. I
> asked him briefly about getting another trip this month and he rolled
> his eyes at me implying not a chance. I can email him and see what he
> thinks.
>
> It's really incredible how birding has EXPLODED over the last 25
> years. When Jane and I started dating 25 years ago, we would often
> visit the NH coast during the fall season ON WEEKENDS and never see
> any other birders! We didn't even organize any pelagic trips back then!
>
> And as a reminder, there are other ways to go offshore!!!!! Maine
> Audubon and the Brookline Bird Club out of Massachusetts offer pelagic
> trips. And you can go on a whale watch out of Rye harbor. You can
> even go offshore on an all-day fishing boat out of Seabrook.....on
> these you go as an observer only and ride on the upper deck while
> people fish below you....sadly they don't offer a discount for
> birders....but you get to productive offshore waters.
I agree entirely about wanting to get more pelagic trips out into the
central Gulf of Maine. And they wouldn't have to be out of Rye Harbor,
either. Any whale watch can be used to get offshore for pelagic birding
-- although the whale watch boats go where there are likely to be
whales, the whales and birds are looking for many of the same things.Â
There are whale watches out of Newburyport, Rockport, Gloucester... I
once inquired at Eastman about chartering one of their boats for an
all-day pelagic trip, but the price was prohibitive and they didn't seem
willing to offer a discount. One of my goals in originally starting the
NHA trips was to make pelagic trips available for a price that was
within reach for most people.
Date: 9/13/26 8:28 am From: <hbaue......> <hbauer0579...> Subject: [NHBirds] October field trips
In October, the Seacoast Chapter of NH Audubon is sponsoring six field trips. Trips range from specialized trips focusing on hawk watching, Saw-whet owl banding , and pelagic birding to trips that focus more generally on fall migration. Please visit the Seacoast Chapter website for more information and to register for the trips: https://www.seacoastchapter.org
Date: 9/13/26 7:53 am From: R Prieto <rbprieto2003...> Subject: [NHBirds] Birding around Laconia?
Hi all,
Later this month, I will be starting a new job up in Laconia, and was
hoping to get some recommendations from locals on the best places to go
birding in the area. I have done some poking around on eBird already, but
Iâve hardly birded in Belknap County at all previously, so any advice is
much appreciated, especially since fall migration is only just starting!
Definitely excited to get to explore the Lakes Region more.
One option to get more people involved: If there are two Fall Pelagics, an
individual only gets to go on one.
I agree that the method of sign-up and notification has not changed, but
the rate of sign-up has. I was checking the Seacoast Chapter site every
morning before work. One morning there was no sign-up available, the next
morning it was full. The notice went up here 1.5 hours after I had checked,
but I don't monitor this chat group closely. Same happened on another walk
I had been looking at. That's basically an effect of birding moving from a
handful of Nerds to Mainstream culture.
On Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 8:06:11â¯PM UTC-4 Steve Mirick wrote:
> Not sure that this went out so I'm sending it again....
>
>
> On 9/12/2026 7:29 PM, Steve Mirick wrote:
>
> A couple of points....
>
> I would like to personally commend Holly (and the Seacoast Chapter) for
> all of the hard work they do AS VOLUNTEERS to make field trips and programs
> happen. Without them, there would be no trips!!! And there is a lot of
> work! The volunteers for NH Audubon are incredible people!!!
>
> With respect to pelagic trips, it certainly is a shame that we can't get
> more going. Maybe we can try to bump it up to 3 trips next fall....but
> this will only work if the Captain of the Granite State can find time in
> his schedule and he's been reluctant to do this. I asked him briefly about
> getting another trip this month and he rolled his eyes at me implying not a
> chance. I can email him and see what he thinks.
>
> It's really incredible how birding has EXPLODED over the last 25 years.
> When Jane and I started dating 25 years ago, we would often visit the NH
> coast during the fall season ON WEEKENDS and never see any other birders!
> We didn't even organize any pelagic trips back then!
>
> And as a reminder, there are other ways to go offshore!!!!! Maine Audubon
> and the Brookline Bird Club out of Massachusetts offer pelagic trips. And
> you can go on a whale watch out of Rye harbor. You can even go offshore on
> an all-day fishing boat out of Seabrook.....on these you go as an observer
> only and ride on the upper deck while people fish below you....sadly they
> don't offer a discount for birders....but you get to productive offshore
> waters.
>
> https://maineaudubon.org/events/bar-harbor-pelagic-trip-2026/ >
> https://www.brooklinebirdclub.org/tripsevents/pelagic-trips-2/ >
> https://granitestatewhalewatch.com/ >
> https://eastmansdocks.com/ (Make sure you go on the offshore all-day boat)
>
> Steve Mirick
> Bradford, MA
>
>
>
> On 9/12/2026 7:09 PM, <hbaue......> wrote:
>
> Historically there have been three pelagic trips a year. One on Memorial
> Day sponsored by NH Audubon and two in the fall on the day after Labor Day
> and in October on Indigenous People's/Columbus Day. NH Audubon and the
> Seacoast Chapter of NH Audubon alternate sponsorship of the fall trips, one
> year the Seacoast Chapter sponsors the September trip and the next year
> they will sponsor October for example. The timing of those trips is based
> on the availability of Granite State Whale Watch - pretty much all of the
> rest of the year they are booked for whale watches. This spring they
> happened to have an extra day available in June and the Seacoast Chapter
> sponsored impromptu trip then.
>
> Speaking for the Seacoast Chapter, we have not changed our methodology for
> promoting the trips. We post the link to register on our website (
> seacoastchapter.org) and then announce it in this group and on Facebook.
> One thing that may have changed is the popularity of the trips and birding
> in general. It used to take several days for the trips to fill up and now
> it can only take a few hours. The good news is that registration for the
> October trip will open tomorrow (Sunday), so keep an eye our website for
> the link to register. I hope to see you on board.
>
> Holly Bauer
> Seacoast Chapter Field Trip Coordinator
>
> On Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 6:31:17â¯PM UTC-4 B Foy wrote:
>
>> I will second that. Pelagic trips were a primary reason for me becoming a
>> member of NH Audubon. But I have seen only occasional announcements for
>> these trips. There is a clearly a large unsatisfied demand for pelagic
>> trips out of Rye Harbor. Perhaps we could strategize on scheduling more of
>> them for the benefit of members.
>>
>> On Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 2:58:17â¯PM UTC-4 <jackso......>
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Iâm writing this in hopes for getting some answers for myself and some
>>> other birders Iâve talked to. For years Iâve always jumped at the chance to
>>> get on both spring and fall NH Audubon pelagic trips on the Granite State
>>> out of Rye. As soon as the trips are announced/promoted, usually in this
>>> forum, myself and others buy tickets as soon as theyâre available. However,
>>> something has changed and a bunch of us missed our chances to get not only
>>> on the spring trip and this last trip that turned up a truly once in a
>>> lifetime species, but Iâve been told there is an October trip that is
>>> already sold out as well. So Iâm asking, does anyone know why these trips
>>> have become so exclusive? Is there a different forum theyâre promoted on?
>>> Weâd like to know how to take part in future trips. Thanks in advance to
>>> anyone that can help.
>>>
>>> -Dylan Jackson
>>> Wilmot
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> --
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