Week two of the waterbird count, and it doesn’t feel like two weeks have already passed. Days become irrelevant when counting migrating birds, and I find that I fall into a sort of rhythm and cadence with the birds. After all, the birds don’t care what day it is, just that the weather is in their favor for migrating. In the spring, the birds prefer south winds to help push them north, though we’ve been treated to steady north winds for the first two weeks, which has put a damper on migration.
Yesterday was damp and rainy to start the day — weather that may slow raptor movements down — but waterbirds will fly in just about anything. Although there was not an overwhelming amount of waterbirds, plenty of ducks were willing to scud run under the low clouds; scud running is a term used in aviation by pilots to fly low underneath the weather (and is not recommended). Waterbirds are the scud runners of the bird world, and considering waterbirds spend at least half their time already with wet feet, it’s no surprise they like to fly in wet weather. After all, it’s just water off a duck’s back!
I’ve been asked by several visitors how I can identify waterbirds flying at great distances? Or when did I start to get good and confident? I’d like to say it’s pure instinct by now, but in reality, it’s time spent in the field. It’s time spent in the books — even for me who is dyslexic — reading books is not my strong point; I much prefer looking at pictures. An excellent book for this is the Peterson Reference Guide to Seawatching, a holy grail of books to someone who wants to improve their waterbird ID skills. Surround yourself with people in the know and never let yourself get complacent. Sure, I’m skilled, though I keep a humble attitude; I also know I have plenty of learning still to do, to tease out yet more nuances in bird identification. So, where to start? Jump in feet first, like a duck with wet feet!
Thank you for reading and happy birding!
~ Matthew Winkler
2021 WPBO Waterbird Counter
You can see live updates for the 2021 Waterbird Count on Dunkadoo, read Matthew’s weekly blog post, and follow WPBO’s social media (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) for waterbird count highlights this season.
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