More than 600 Swainsons Hawks Descend on Borrego Valley

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Today only 145 Swainson's left the valley. However we watched several hawks coming in after 3 PM and then around 5 PM more than 500 Swainson's Hawks dropped in. The totals might exceed 600.

The problem again is that they are roosting far to the east. Now they are located near the dump road off of S-22 and a line of Tamarisk trees to the east.

Be patient as the hawks will probably lift-off late. Today the hawks left between 9:30-11A. Tomorrow with calm to light wind many will probably remain again.

You might want to check in at the Borrego Valley Hawkwatch web site to find the best vantage place to view the hawks. The main site is located on DiGiorgio Road 2.8 miles north of Palm Canyon Drive. 

Keep Watching,
Hal Cohen via Karyn Sauber

Jeff Price to Speak to the Botany Society

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Jeff Price and fuzzy friend

Jeff Price and fuzzy friend

“Bug specialist" Jeff Price will describe the vital role his desert friends play in a presentation April 13 to the Botany Society in Borrego Springs.

Price, with 10 years’ experience as a California State Park interpreter, will talk about “The Beetles and The Bees: A look into the hidden lives of those who pollinate, protect and pilfer from our desert plants.”  Price will explore the often over-looked lives of our native desert pollinators and their fascinating life cycles.

Jeff's presentation will begin at 10 AM in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s Visitor Center, 200 Palm Canyon Drive, 92004. There is no charge for admission, and the public is invited.

Price has worked at Seacliff State Beach in Aptos, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park at Scotts Valley and is now employed at Ocotillo Wells SVRA. He has had an interest in the lives of the small and curious since childhood.

 

 

Alert: Dunes Flowerwalk and Sahara Mustard Introduction

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Explore the beautiful Borrego dunes, where the flowers are just spectacular right now.  Take some great flower pictures, learn some wildflower identification, and get an introduction to Sahara Mustard so we can keep our beautiful wildflowers for years to come. 

Bring hat, gloves, and water.  Gather at the ABDNHA parking lot, next to Carlees and we will guide you to our destination.  No 4WD needed -  just a brief drive on good roads and then a short walk.

Wednesday, March 18, 8–9:30 AM

from Pat Matthews, via Judy Ramirez

More Swanson's Hawks in Borrego Springs

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Creative Commons License 2012 Fred Hochstaedter

Creative Commons License 2012 Fred Hochstaedter

Once again we have lots of hawks in town for the feast (caterpillars). We watched birds kettle and stream into the Date Farm. Activity started early then settled down until 6:30P when a large kettle of almost 200 hawks flew into the Date Farm. Many hawks were still in the field when we left. If the conditions are the same tomorrow, lift off around 9:30A from several locations including the flower fields to the east and the Date Farm. Borrego Valley Rd. still looks like the best spot for viewing. I will post the blog this by 8:30P this evening at Borregohawkwatch.blogspot.com