The fall 2023 waterbird count got off to a strong start with some excellent weather and pleasantly warm temperatures for the first two days of the season. Many visitors to the Point this week (including myself) could be seen in short-sleeved shirts and shorts, enjoying the pleasant conditions. Waterbird migration so far has been dominated by Red-necked Grebes, of which over 150 have passed each day. A small variety of dabblers have passed as well, with the majority having been Blue-winged Teal. In addition, shorebird migration is in full swing, with 12 species migrating past the Point on Aug. 16.
Highlights so far include a Black Tern that passed on Aug. 15 and a Whimbrel that spent some time circling the pool on the morning of Aug. 16. However, the rarity highlight of the first week was not a waterbird, but a passerine involved in a large morning flight of over 100 warblers on Aug. 15. A Yellow-throated Warbler was seen flying in off of the lake with a small group of warblers that had likely just launched from the woods but decided to turn back. The warbler flew past the waterbird shack at eye level but paused briefly in the nearest pine — just long enough to allow it to be documented.
As the migration season builds up over the next few weeks, stop by the waterbird shack to say hello and check out what is migrating over Lake Superior! The front passing later this week will hopefully bring the first large flight of waterbirds.
– Mike McBrien, 2023 Fall Waterbird Counter
Featured photo: Yellow-throated Warbler. Photo by Mike McBrien
Sunrise on day one of the count. Photo by Mike McBrien.
Flock of Red-necked Grebes passing a freighter. Photo by Mike McBrien.
