How Napatree hawk counts work: a local volunteer explains methods, timing and data sheets

Oct 23, 2026

The presenter walked listeners through field protocols for Napatree counts—seasonal timing (early September–mid-November), ideal wind (NW 10–15 mph), reference points, and the hourly data sheet used to log sightings and conditions.

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The presenter outlined step-by-step counting methods used at Napatree: he said he typically surveys from the first week of September through the second week of November, records wind speed and direction, temperature, percent cloud cover and visibility, and notes each sighting on an hourly sheet. He emphasized consistent reference points—"parking area number 39," the sandbar and the point—so birds are scored reliably across sessions.

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