Hawk Watch

For the last several years, a small group of focused observers has taken their scopes up to the Modoc Rim to observe just a small fraction of the raptors that move through the Klamath Basin during fall migration. With a natural westerly breeze that is forced upward at the Modoc Rim, raptors can’t help but follow the easy ride southward along that north-south escarpment. Each year, falcons, buteos, eagles, harriers, Coopers’ and Sharp-shinned Hawks “float” past the gazers for brief looks. In between, there is much standing, discussing, and observing as passerines move past, also heading southward.

Visiting prominent locations atop mountain ranges was a favorite of Patty Buettner. She was a dedicated biologist and was instrumental at the start of the bird banding in the Klamath Basin in the 1990s. For the last few years, this annual Hawk Watch has been dedicated in her honor for her work with the Klamath Bird Observatory. Please support the continued efforts by Klamath Bird Observatory by donating in her honor and memory. The date for this year’s Hawk Watch will be Friday, September 26, from 9 to 3 pm.

Observers are welcome to participate. It is a long day in the sun, so bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, food, a chair, a scope, and binoculars. The time is spent mostly standing for long periods of time, scanning the horizon, looking for soaring birds in the distance. As raptors approach, their ID is narrowed down using clues seen as they get closer. The location of the viewing area is accessed by ascending the road just N of Hagelstein Park. The road is a steep gravel road with some washboarding. At the top, a spur road is taken to the rim where vehicles are parked. A short hike through brush, with gear, will take you to a location where you will spend the next six or so hours. If you are interested in participating, please email Kevin Spencer at rriparia@charter.net.

You do not have to participate to donate. Please support the observers’ efforts by donating. There will be a follow-up article in the next Grebe that will summarize this day.