The last three days have only allowed a few short morning trips, so I nosed around several parks in Columbus.   The amount of raptor activity has really perked up just about everywhere hereabouts.  Highlights recently include:

Turkey Vulture - 1-2 birds nearly everywhere.  They are definitely filtering through the southern part of the state

Cooper's Hawk - many calling and jousting for territories now, even in some rather tiny woodlands (like Lazerlle Park and Woodward Park in north Columbus).  I watched a trio battling for supremacy in a tiny woodlot in west Columbus, and it was hard to tell who was the territory-holder and who were the invaders.

Red-shouldered Hawk - the nesting pair in Rush Run ravine were calling this morning, so that territory is probably active.  ANother adult was prospecting for space at Gahanna Woods yesterday, but was immediately challenged by the resident pair of Red-tails who escorted him away from the woodlands.  With its huge amphibian population, this would be a great spot for Red-shouldereds.

Red-tailed Hawks - conspicuous pairs at many locations, especially allong the freeways (I-270 especially).  I haven't noticed any nest-building/rebuilding yet, but it should start any time now.


Rob Thorn
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