Our eBird October Big Day was a success with 66 species within a 24-hour birding period, and this total was decent with these less than ideal migration conditions. We were hard-pressed for waterfowl diversity/abundance, but we were able to pull out some decent waterbirds like an adult Parasitic Jaeger. Other non-waterbird highlights during the big day were a Blue-headed Vireo and a Gray Catbird.
Blue-headed Vireo (Fall 2021)
Waterbird Highlights:
The flood gates have finally opened! The last count of the week was our largest migration of loons this fall! During the count, we had 493 Common Loons, and we ended the day with 599. So close. We were also excited to have a quick showing of an immature PACIFIC LOON mixed with Common and Red-throated Loons. Waterfowl, specifically the diving ducks such as Aythaya, scoters, and Long-tailed Ducks, have increased significantly this week. A single Canvasback was the highlight of the waterfowl this week.
Shorebirds are still being seen irregularly throughout the day, with one of these species being an American Woodcock. To our surprise, there was one evening where we had a decent group of White-rumped Sandpipers, followed by American Golden-Plovers, and finally a flock of peeps (likely Semipalmated Sandpipers). Other welcome visitors were four Forster’s Terns that later joined with several Common Terns.
Other Bird Highlights:
Two of our more winter-related species, the Rough-legged Hawk and Snow Bunting, showed for the first time this week. The warm southerly conditions made these two species feel out of context for the time of year; a change in weather conditions might alter this perspective.
Rough-legged Hawk (Fall 2021)
~ Mario Balitbit, 2021 Fall Waterbird Counter
