The main observation site is the Hay Meadow, Mt. Lorette Site. The site is located in Kananaskis on the bank of the Kananaskis River. It has a view of the open valley. which allows excellent (though rather distant) viewing of the Fisher Range to the east. The bulk of the Golden Eagles and other raptors use this ridge as part of their preferred migration route.
Mt. Lorette Observations
See the seasonal count reports and daily summaries for historical observation counts. The following observations started in Fall 2021.
10/25/2021
Observers: Lori Anderson, Ian Dowson
08:15 AM
06:30 PM
3.5C- 8C
Apart from a rainy period from 10:00- 12:00 and a few strong gusts of wind, it was a great fall day. Ground winds blew from the south and the SW/WSW ridge winds ranged from 40-80 km/h with gusts up to 115 km/h. Most migrants preferred the Eastern Route and appeared over Patrick or North Fisher.
An adult Northern Goshawk flew down and came within a few meters of the site offering a great view of its steel blue/grey plumage.
34
4 Bald Eagles,1 Sharp-shinned Hawk and 1 Coopers Hawk.
12:00- 13:00 and 17:00- 18:00 with 7 each hour.
40
1 Bald Eagle, 1 Northern Goshawk, 1 Rough-legged Hawk.
1 American Dipper, 1 Hairy Woodpecker, 20 Bohemian Waxwings, 1 Belted Kingfisher, 1 White-winged Crossbill, and a conspiracy of 8 Ravens, 2 Black-billed Magpies.
1
