Photo by Francois Portmann http://www.fotoportmann.com/birds
If you've not seen a fledgling come off the nest for the first time, it is one of the most exciting moments in hawkwatching bar none.
Francois Portmann, chief watcher and creator of the above view says that fledging is imminent at Thompkins. So if I were you I'd be down at Thompkins Square Park participating in the vigil waiting for the big moment.
Besides the fact that as this is a new nest it is unknown how successful a spot it is for fledglings to get where they need to go, i.e. the park and not the street bristling with traffic.
Another reason to be there. It has happened that a fledgling came down into city traffic and had to be rescued and placed in a safe green space by a vigilant hawkwatcher.
For those new to the "fledgling pick up", it is the feet you need to go for first as they are a fledgling's or really any hawk's automatic weapon. In an emergency, grab the fledglings ankles with one hand (Don't be timid, JUST DO IT.) and use the other hand to hold them close to your body until you get them to safety.
HAPPY HAWKING!!!
DONEGAL BROWNE
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