On January 5, 2019, we completed the first ever Smooth Rock Falls
Christmas Bird Count. While there were no unexpected bird sightings, and a
few species were missed, I think we accomplished a solid count that showed
a good representation of what birds are around here in the winter.
We had 5 parties in the field and 4 feeder watchers. Field counters
logged just over 12 party hours, driving, walking, and snowshoeing,
covering about 131 km altogether. Additional counters would be welcomed
next year; what a terrific opportunity for our southern friends to observe
some northern birds!
We identified 14 species, totaling 266 individual birds, on count day.
No additional species were observed during the count week days. As
anticipated, the largest numbers of birds were observed at feeders in town
and at the landfill. Our most common birds were Pine Grosbeak (78) and
Common Raven (65). We were pleased to have a Bald Eagle, a Hoary Redpoll, 2
Boreal Chickadees, and 6 Blue Jays. Notable misses include Black-backed
Woodpecker, and any kind of Grouse or Owl.
Because this is the first ever CBC in Smooth Rock Falls, we don't know
if any of our numbers were exceptionally high or low. We look forward to
the coming years when patterns will hopefully begin to emerge.
Angie Williams
aw8675...@gmail.com
_______________________________________________
ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the
provincial birding organization.
Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca
For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit
http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup
Posting guidelines can be found at
http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide
Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
