Falcons diverted by gale force winds to Golden Isles off East Coast

[AlisonL]

Beach birds: Falcons occupy coast following gales

Some unusual visitors to the Golden Isles took up residence along the beaches recently, as rarely seen peregrine falcons blew in from the ocean.

They came in numbers birders and wildlife biologists said they have never seen previously.

“When we had that really strong northeast gale blowing for almost a week, we just had some really spectacular numbers — several different estimates ranging at over 160 peregrines on a single day, coming through,� said Tim Keyes, state Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist. “It’s most likely birds which typically would be migrating well offshore. Falcons are one of the few birds of prey that don’t mind migrating over large bodies of water. Most of our birds of prey catch thermals, so they need to basically be over land so they can catch the warm rising air masses.�

For the rest of the article:

http://thebrunswicknews.com/news/local_news/beach-birds-falcons-occupy-coast-following-gales/article_338cb1a6-7bc3-5f58-8204-d0f576685076.html

[MAK]

I can't imagine seeing 160 Peregrines in one day! 

[Donna]

I still get all excited DT, when I see 1 falcon!! I can't even imagine 160!!