gls@hare.udev.cdc.com (gl sprandel x4707) (12/08/89)
Re: Chicken hawk
1 coopers hawk for every 10 sharp shins is a lot. The counts from
fall migration in hawk ridge in Duluth average about 65 coopers
a year, versus 12,000 sharpies (or a ration of about 200 to one).
I am sure this varies depending upon where you are, and what time of
year also. Note: Size is not a very good diagnostic for determining
coopers versus sharp shinned.
I've seem hand held birds a few times and there is a even size gradient
from male sharpie, to female sharpie, to male coopers to female.
(and then on up to goshawk)
Thus after looking at male sharpies for a while, if you see a larger
bird you might think coopers but its more likely a female sharpie.
Shape of tail does not work that well during migration during the fall
since they may set it differently in heavy migration.
I have been told this is one of the most 'over-counted' birds in Minnesota.
What do you all use as a field mark for coopers/vs sharp shinned ?
Re: Florida
The Audubon sanctuary Corkscrew swamp up north of Naples is great too -
a good placed to see painted buntings is at the feeder there. Ding
darling refuge on sanibel island (gulf side) is also productive, for
wading birds. I would 2nd Anhinga trail also. A boat ride out of
everglade city is a good way to see lots of Osprey also.
Heres a few notes from the Minnesota Ornithologists Union annual meeting
- Trumpeter swans are being re-introduced into the state with mixed
success. The big problem is lead shot ingestion in wandering juveniles.
- A survey of Rails at 2-4am revealed more Virginia rails than sora's.
- The MN loon survey estimates 10,500 - 13,500 adults in the state.. this
is #1 for the lower 48 states (maine estimated 5,000 wisc 2300)
(of course Alaska has many more + more species)
- 390 bald eagle nest found in Minnesota this last year (about 430 young)
. Wisc estimates 360, maine 150, michigan 140..Again Alaska has many more.
- One of the effects of the Valdez spill in alaska is a 66% reduction in
bald eagle breeding success. In only takes a little oil to be toxic to
the eggs. Also the oil effects the adults, and many were seen drying their
wings like cormorants.
- Perregrine falcon reintroduction: 116 were released in upper midwest this
year. 9 wild pairs produced 22 young. This is some of the best news in
a long time, since the population appears to becoming self sustaining.
Gary
(someone please response, since I'm not positive our mail machine
always sends out).
Gary Sprandel gls@hare.udev.cdc.com Telephone <612> 482-4707
Control Data Corporation ARH254, 4201 N. Lexington, Arden Hill MN, 55126 USA