Another interesting day in Sullivan. The GREAT CORMORANT continues at the Bashakill WMA. It was seen by at least a dozen people both this morning and this afternoon. I am really hoping the bird survives the accelerated hunting that takes place each weekend at this time of year. Due to the area he frequents, I think he stands a good chance of evading the hunters. Also of note are the shorebirds at Swan Lake. It is starting to seem late to me, but at least 25 Wilson's Snipe, one Pectoral Sandpiper, one Dunlin and one Killdeer continue there. Ruddy Ducks and Green-winged Teal are abundant in several locations. PINE SISKINS continue to increase in number, Scott Baldinger had at least 70 at his feeders. The birds of the day (for me at least) were two swallows that flew by the hawk watch tower at 2:56 pm today. They were dark above, buff brown below, short square tails and rounded wings. I am absolutely certain they were CAVE SWALLOWS!! Though I was unable to discern any pale rump (dark clouds and rain just north of the tower made lighting very bad) I also saw no white forehead indicative of Cliff Swallow and all other species of swallow were easily ruled out. One might argue that juvenile Cliff Swallow might have a dark forehead, but the likelihood of that species is so slim I am confident of my identification. I left the tower immediately as the birds flew down the ridge directly toward the Bashakill which is only 8 miles away and clearly visible from the tower. In spite of a long vigilance until near dark, no swallows ever showed at the Bash. I can only hope these or others will show and be seen by others over the weekend. Also of note were 4 GOLDEN EAGLES at the Hawk Watch this afternoon. John Haas
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