Latest sightings log: Morning flocks of all three species + Hepburn's

[Rosyfinch]

Dave Weaver send this report of today's visit to Crest House. Thanks, Dave and Fran!

Hi Ken,

I went up to the Crest this morning, where it was about 15 degrees (F) and clear with a 10 - 15 mph wind at 10:00AM.  The road conditions are very good, with only a little ice in the shady corners.  The parking lots still have a good deal of ice but are safe enough if one pays attention.  I have attached a log update.

The Crest House staff report that the finches seem to be much more frequent and in much larger groups in the mornings, so visitors might want to plan morning visits if possible.

Hope everything is going well for you and yours!

Dave 

Link to latest Rosy-finch Sightings Log

[MIchael Todd]

Wondering if you could answer a question for me. I am flying into Albuquerque on Wednesday to meet some friends who are driving up from TX. I had been planning to visit the Crest House on Thursday. The forecast for Thursday is calling for 20+ mph winds with gusting quite a bit higher. Will this impact the Rosy Finch viewing or is the feeding station somewhat sheltered from the wind? My other option is to try and get up there Wednesday afternoon, but my flight doesn't arrive until 12:20. I just saw your post which looks like mornings are better. Any thoughts? And, could you tell me the operating hours of the Crest House?

[Rosyfinch]

Yes, Michael, it looks as if it will be quite windy, and because of the altitude, wind speeds may be  higher than are predicted down in Albuquerque or even Cedar Crest. Keep an eye on the hourly forecast to get an idea of when winds will start to pick up.

Wednesday's forecast is more favorable, so you might have better viewing conditions that afternoon, though you can expect strong sun from the SW and W, behind the birds-- not good for photography from the deck windows. Flocks do visit at intervals all day long, so if you are patient you will see them  in the afternoon, perhaps not so many at a time. If there is a lack of snow cover there may be fewer birds at the feeder. Usually you should not have to wait more than an hour or so between visits by flocks. You should have a couple or three hours to see them if you arrive up there by 2:00 PM or so. The Crest House stays open until at least 5:00 PM, but call ahead to confirm exact closing time. The number is [phone].

The deck faces west and is not sheltered from the prevailing winds, which are expected to be coming in from the west or southwest. The rosy-finches are adapted to the mountain conditions and will visit the feeder Thursday morning even in high winds, but viewing will not be ideal under these conditions. The Crest House opens at 9:30 so you probably should plan to be up there early if you decide on a Thursday visit. Do not call before opening time.

Good luck, and let us all know how you fare.