As spring migration for warblers fast approaches, everyone is looking for a reason to get outside. Bradbury Mountain, known in Maine as one of the best hawk migration spots on the east coast, is definitely reason enough to enjoy the lovely weather. If you are thinking “I can’t identify raptors,” or “I can barely identify birds that are right in from of me,” there is no need to panic. Freeport Wild Bird Supply (linked here) graciously sponsors The Bradbury Mountain Spring Hawkwatch near Freeport, which they have done for 15 years. There is an official counter on the mountain every day from March 15 to May 15, counting every bird they see. They are often pointing out the birds to onlookers, so you can see the birds and have them identified for you without having worry about whether you are looking at a Broad-winged Hawk or a Sharp-shinned Hawk, two birds seen there today.
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What makes Bradbury Mountain in Pownal such a hot spot for hawks?
On average, more than 1,700 broad-wing hawks, 400 osprey and 75 bald eagles soar by Bradbury Mountain each season.
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Hawk-watcher and resident biologist Andrew Sharp standing aside his spotting scope, which is four times more powerful than binoculars. C. Thacher Carter / The Times Record
Chances are, if you’ve been atop Bradbury Mountain in Pownal over the past month, you might have seen wildlife biologist Andrew Sharp peering out at the view through his high-powered spotting scope.
“We’ve had two big days so far,” Sharp said. “Our biggest day was 858.”