This week's western Pennsylvania waterfowl migration report from the Avery Outdoors Pro-Staff:
Pro-Staff member: David Rearick
Date: 11/17/08
Location: Wexford
Weather: The weather is turning cold very quickly. Temp’s reaching the low 20’s
Snow Cover: Snow is on the ground in most fields, but in some places it isn’t enough for snow covers, just snow spray.
Water conditions: Freezing quickly. Low water conditions should cause an early freeze for many small ponds and lakes.
Feeding conditions: Good, lots of corn on the ground and plenty of manure being spread in it.
Species and numbers: Lots of Canada Geese are finding their way South to the lower portion of the state. Some ducks have started to show up as well.
Migrations: Small groups have birds have been moving in and through as well as thousands of tundra swans
Season stage: The season just re-started in the South zone.
Hunting report: The resident goose flocks are building making them more difficult to hunt. Late-season tactics already have to be employed even though the season just re-opened. I think we are in for a tough winter.
Gossip: Take hand warmers and be prepared to hang out past your normal hunting hours as the birds are flying later and later each day. Those that can tough out the wind and cold should have good success.