2007 Update:

The survey ran for a period of 16 days and was conducted at the North Beach observation platform at the GTMNERR in St. Johns County. The survey required two volunteers per 6 hour day to compile the statistics. Data was collected on weather conditions, three species of falcons and observations of falcon behavior.

Observations included a rocket launch, full moon and rainbow across the sky on our first survey day. The group endured high winds and rains, plus the coughing and hacking due to a red tide effect. Although we did not observe many large flocks of birds, we did see high numbers of brown pelicans, cormorants and white ibis. We saw raptors, such as Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Red-tailed hawk and Red-shouldered hawk. Several participants saw migratory warblers, belted kingfishers, Northern flickers, Northern gannet, tree and barn swallows, and small groups of shorebirds. Common nighthawk was seen on several occasions.

High numbers of monarch butterflies were observed on one of the days. Dragonflies were seen on almost a daily basis. An orchard oriole was spotted flying by the platform on one occasion.

Data is compiled and forwarded to the Hawk Migration Association of North America (HMANA), http://hmana.org/, a membership-based organization committed to the conservation of raptors through the scientific study, enjoyment, and appreciation of raptor migration. Statistics for the last three years are detailed below.

I owe a debt of gratitude to the many volunteers that have helped over the years. This year, I especially wish to thank the following participants: Pam Bowen, Joseph Burgess, Dave Cole, Rachel Endicott, Laura Johanssen, Matt Love, Linda Melch, Don Palmer, John Paquet, Ned Shuler, Teddy Shuler, Andrew Thornton, Anne Turner, Tina VanGhent, Stan Wakefield, Meret Wilson, Stephanie Windham.

- Diane Reed, Survey Coordinator

The Peregrine Falcon study survey was initiated in 1997 through the efforts of Dr. Bob Stoll.  Diane Reed and Bob had participated in many bird counts together and discussed often that there was credible information that Peregrines migrated along the NE coast during the fall.  Bob decided to coordinate a count of both Peregrines and Merlin.  The count started with 12 hour shifts and later decreased to 6 hours shifts during what were considered peak migratory dates. 

This year (2006), with the help of many volunteers (in Bob’s absence), the survey was conducted again.  The statistics show a lower number, but must be reviewed over the span rather than considering one year at a time.

Of interesting note: on 9/27/2006 we experienced a high amount of great blue herons (40+) migrating through the area from the ocean to the southwest.  On 10/7/2006, we witnessed large groups of migrating ospreys totaling conservatively over 60 birds.  Other raptors (Red-tailed hawks, Bald eagles, Northern harriers) were seen but not counted during this survey.

I would like to graciously thank the following volunteers who participated in the falcon count, plus the visitors.  I’m sure I have left out some of the names, but I thank everyone for their help in this effort.    

Diane Reed
Don Palmer
Mike Bentzien
Laura Johanssen
John Paquet
Tina VanGhent
Dave Cole
Lucy Seeds
Stan Wakefield
Bert Charest
Rachel Endicott
Veronica Peterson
Barry Albright
Tom Barry
Matt Love
Kevin Dailey
Marie Dailey
Meret Wilson
Barbara Bennett
Anne Turner
Larry Sachs
Nancy Sachs

Sincerely,

Diane Reed

1997 – 2001 5 year average = 230 peregrines, 32 merlin (did not count kestrels)

Year   Total Peregrines

2002        99

2003        176

2004        285

2005        457

2006        105

        Year     Total Merlin

2002        40

2003        19

2004        28

2005        29

2006        19

Year     Total Kestrels

2006        8 

PEREGRINES:

MERLIN:

KESTRELS:

PEREGRINES: