.........." I guess a dense aggregation with mixed-direction flight occurred and led to lots of midair collisions."
Since blackbirds and (esp.) starlings typically migrate in huge flocks and are known for their unbelievable displays of synchronicity in their swarms, is it possible that the birds simply became exhausted from flying in circles within the confines of the lighted area, only to drop from the group onto the hard ground? D. Cartwright -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html 3) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --