(by Chris Martin)

Our human calendars still say ‘Winter’ but for many NH birds of prey spring has already arrived! As March began, Bald Eagle pairs were already bringing sticks and grasses to improve their massive nests high in pines and cottonwood trees along NH lakes and rivers. With a breeding population that tops 115 pairs, many of these impressive birds are already incubating eggs. You can help us track NH’s breeding eagles and document new nest sites by reporting nests you find, either on eBird or directly to NH Audubon’s raptor biologist Chris Martin.

At the Brady Sullivan Tower in Manchester, the city’s best-known raptors are scraping a gravel nest bowl for their eggs. This year marks the 25th in a row that a local Peregrine pair has call the Queen City home. And you can watch these two raise another brood this season, thanks to webcams generously provided by Peregrine Networks! Across the state, many other falcon pairs are starting their courtship on NH cliffs. Listen for them calling when you are hiking or climbing in the mountains over the next several months, and report where you find them!

Other raptor species are now making their way back to northern breeding territories after spending their winters away. This includes state-endangered Northern Harriers, colorful American Kestrels, continent-hopping Ospreys, massive Golden Eagles, and even teeny tiny Saw-whet Owls! Spring is a great time to get outdoors and refamiliarize yourself with our state’s many diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey! And if you want to get involved as a field volunteer for NH Audubon, contact our community outreach coordinator Anita Fernandez to get started!