The third week of April at Whitefish Point was filled with some great days and unusual birds, as well as some pretty slow days. April 15 was a blustery, snowy day as a cold front rolled past. Few birds moving, but it was a treat to spot a Great Black-backed Gull. Following the cold front of the 15th, I wasn’t expecting much as high pressure cleared all clouds from the sky and a stiff northwest wind pummeled the point. To everyones surprise, this was the day a Black Vulture decided to show up! This southern visitor is a rare treat to the Point, and spent 45 minutes soaring and flapping about with a kettle of Turkey Vultures.
Black Vulture by Sean McLaughlin
The 17th and 18th delivered some southerly winds, and thus quite a few birds! Two great days of Sharp-shinned Hawks, Northern Harriers, Rough-legged Hawks and American Kestrels padded the numbers. The first three Osprey of the year were all spotted on the 18th too! Fish hawks are back in a big way. We are nearly in the peak windows for Kestrels, Rough-legged Hawks, and Northern Harriers, and there might be a chance for a few big flights next week.
Male American Kestrel by Sean McLaughlin
April 18th and 20th served up similar flights, with a somewhat lackluster day on the 19th in between. Highlights include some big increases in Sharp-shinned Hawk flights, a modest arrival of Broad-winged Hawks and Sandhill Cranes on the 20th, and a Great Egret on the 18th! The 21st was a quiet and rainy wrap up to the week, headlined by an adult Glaucous Gull. It’s really starting to feel like spring in the bird world, but temperatures and snow cover just refuse to really let up. I really appreciate all who stopped in to deliver cookies and help spot birds this week! Keep an eye on the forecast for warmer days with sunshine, and the raptor floodgates will continue to open wider and wider! Hope to see you at the Point. 
American Tree Sparrow by Sean McLaughlin
