Winter Raptor Survey

In January, teams of raptor enthusiasts surveyed 8 pre- determined routes for wintering raptors. A total of 9 species were seen, with 185 birds counted. Collectively, these volunteers drove well over 900 miles, and that was only after they had arrived at the beginning of their often distant route. As usual, some routes produced a good number of birds seen, while others had few birds observed. The numbers seem to vary depending on the amount of rainfall and subsequent abundance or lack of vegetation growth. Riparian areas and active agricultural fields with irrigation appear to be a draw for raptors during our ongoing drought.

Red-tailed Hawks were again the most numerous, with 105 counted. Second place went to American Kestrels with 37 seen. This continues a downward trend for these beautiful falcons, from a high of 81 in 2023 to numbering in the 40s in 2024 and 2025. This is unfortunately a nationwide trend, which is why doing these surveys is so important. These small falcons were once the most numerous raptor in North America, and their numbers have declined significantly since the 1970s to where they are now considered a species of special concern. Habitat loss, pesticide use reducing prey, lack of nesting cavities, and increased predation are all factors contributing to the decline. Our raptor numbers will be reported to the Hawk Migration Association where they will be compiled with other surveys from all over North America to develop trends like those of the kestrel.

A heartfelt thank you to all who participated in this year’s survey! Read the full report on our Community Science web page.
- Linda Moore compiler