A consistent string of favorable winds have offered productive waterbird counts this week. On 09/22/2023, a true Northwest wind produced a particularly exciting flight. Season daily high counts of numerous species were recorded, including Red-necked Grebe (395), Common Loon (139), and Red-throated Loon (10). A single Cackling Goose was also spotted among the many flocks of migrating Canada Geese (896).
This week has marked a considerable increase in flights of dabbling ducks, particularly American Wigeon and Northern Pintail. The first Hooded Merganser and Greater Scaup of the fall were also observed. Loon movements are gradually building in intensity, and migratory Red-throated Loons are now counted almost daily.
Noteworthy sightings this week include a pair of migrating Trumpeter Swans, observed from Graham Point on 09/13/2023. Four American Golden Plovers passed by McGulpin Point in flight on 09/16/2023.
