Fort Sheridan Hawk Watch Friday 10-31-25

[Al Stokie]

Hello Bird People, 

Went to the Ft Sheridan Hawk Watch at about 10 am & stayed until about 2 pm. About 15 min after I left they had a Golden Eagle but I was told it was way off to the west & with the way I see distant raptors I doubt I could have seen it well enough to count anyway. Earlier they saw a dark Rough Legged Hawk but again too far for me. I have never claimed to be very good at the Hawk Watch game! 

Here's what I was able to see & identify. 

Turkey Vultures (5), Bald Eagle 

(3), Sharp Shinned Hawks (4), Cooper's Hawk (2), Harrier (1), Red Shouldered Hawk (2), Red Tailed Hawks (lots!) & one Peregrine. I believe others also saw a Merlin or two & perhaps a Kestrel. 

Remember that the counters will always see many more raptors than I will & I know the official count was over 100 when I left at 2 pm. 

Also heard a Bluebird or two & flying by were Goldfinches & Siskins. 

Bird-Of-The-Day will be the Red Shouldered Hawks & Runner-Up will be the adult Bald Eagles. 

If I come back in my next lifetime I hope it's as someone with really good eyesight so I can be an expert at Hawk Watches. 

Al Stokie 

In Lake County today