Bird sightings at Bake Oven Knob starting to wane

Merlin preparing to dive

The migration of Sharp-shinned Hawks continued at Bake Oven Knob in Lehigh County this week but at a greatly reduced number.

A total of 437 Sharpies were reported during the week ended October 17, which is less than the 1,181 recorded in the previous year. Part of the drop-off was attributable to dense fog and rain on the mountain on Wednesday, which made visibility impossible.

The number of Turkey Vultures rose a bit, to 131 this week from 76 the previous week. Turkey Vultures now are the most common species seen at Bake Oven Knob, other than the Sharp-shinned Hawks.

Other totals for the week were: Red-tailed Hawk, 63; Black Vulture, 29; Cooper's Hawk, 29; Osprey, 28; Northern Harrier, 24; Merlin, 14; Bald Eagle, 13; Peregrine Falcon, 12; American Kestrel, 9; Red-shouldered Hawk, 2; and Golden Eagle, 1.

Canada Geese are on the wing. A total of 497 were recorded during the week. That's the highest number during this migration season.

Other species seen included the Dark-eyed Junco, Common Raven, Blue Jay, Pileated and Hairy woodpeckers, Northern and Yellow-shafted flickers, American Crow, Cedar Waxwing, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Carolina Wren, White-breasted Nuthatch, Tufted Titmouse, Golden-crowned Kinglet and Ruffed Grouse.