MSRW’s 2024 spring raptor count at Mackinaw City offically began March 5 with a few days of counting by volunteers prior to the start. Some beautiful weather and a total of 347 raptors observed crossing the straits made for an excellent start to the season.
Although no count was conducted March 9 due to snowy conditions, earlier in the week conditions were nice for early March. The early migrants included Golden and Bald Eagles, Red-shouldered Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, and a surprising number of Rough-legged Hawks. Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks made up most of the counts, at 25% and 24% respectively. Golden and Bald Eagles were the next most abundant sightings, followed by Rough-legged Hawk, Merlin, Cooper’s hawk, and a single Sharp-shinned Hawk. Overall, there was a steady movement and good variety of raptors crossing the Strait.
Past first week spring counts have shown fewer raptors migrating (160 in 2023, 8 in 2022, and 76 in 2021). With numbers starting out strong for the spring migration, we hope to have a busy 2024 season! We look forward to seeing our supporters at the count site!
Although no count was conducted March 9 due to snowy conditions, earlier in the week conditions were nice for early March. The early migrants included Golden and Bald Eagles, Red-shouldered Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, and a surprising number of Rough-legged Hawks. Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks made up most of the counts, at 25% and 24% respectively. Golden and Bald Eagles were the next most abundant sightings, followed by Rough-legged Hawk, Merlin, Cooper’s hawk, and a single Sharp-shinned Hawk. Overall, there was a steady movement and good variety of raptors crossing the Strait.
Past first week spring counts have shown fewer raptors migrating (160 in 2023, 8 in 2022, and 76 in 2021). With numbers starting out strong for the spring migration, we hope to have a busy 2024 season! We look forward to seeing our supporters at the count site!
