Over the past week, the waterbird count has experienced a couple slower days of migration but has also been highlighted by the arrival of several new species and a few interesting sightings. Red-necked Grebes continue moving in good numbers and have been the most prevalent species on flight days. August 25 showcased a large flight of 722 Red-necked Grebes with almost all passing before noon.
A mixed flock of dabbling ducks (Northern Shovelors, American Wigeons, and Mallards) passing the Point. Photo by Mike McBrien
Dabbling duck migration is slowly on the uptick, and provides a nice splash of diversity among the flocks of passing grebes. Almost all of the regularly occurring dabblers have appeared, with the overall numbers increasing over the past week. Shorebird migration is near its peak with a wide range of species moving past the Point at the moment. A Whimbrel was a very nice sunrise surprise for myself and a few visitors to the waterbird shack on Aug. 26. A couple of Stilt Sandpipers (an uncommon, low-density migrant) have been appearing almost daily.
A pair of Great Egrets arriving off of Lake Superior. Photo by Mike McBrien
A pair of Great Egrets migrated past the Point on the morning of Aug. 24, which provided a bright surprise on an otherwise dreary and gray morning. This is only the fourth year the fall waterbird count has recorded this species. Jaegers have also been on the move, with at least eight seen this past week. Jaegers are a group of gull-like seabirds that nest in the high Arctic tundra, and always provide some excitement when they migrate past the Point.
The waterbird count has also gotten some recent passerine visitors as well. American Pipits arrived this past week and have been a constant sight and sound throughout the dune habitat. They often keep me company during the day and try to help me with the waterfowl tallies, while perching atop nearby driftwood or even the shack itself!
American Pipit joining the waterbird count to tally some migrant ducks. Photo by Mike McBrien
~ Mike McBrien, 2023 Fall Waterbird Counter
Featured photo: A flock of Canada Geese that was part of the first big push of migrant geese on Aug. 29. Photo by Mike McBrien
