Extensive cloud cover and strong winds from the N/NW was the norm this week. These conditions are often associated with storm fronts, and tend to offer productive waterbird counts.
Dabbling ducks flights have been a highlight this week. Over 200 were observed from McGulpin Point on 08/20/2023. This included daily high counts for Mallard (109), American Black Duck (22), and American Wigeon (41).
Favorable winds have produced an impressive final push of Sandhill Cranes. Similar to raptors, cranes will take advantage of thermals during migration. Large movements generally occur during the early afternoon. This week alone recorded over 2,000!
All three species of scoters are still on the move. Flights continue to be dominated by White-winged Scoters, with a total of 586 from this week. A season high of 25 Surf Scoters was tallied from McGulpin Point on 10/15/2023.
Daily flights of Redhead now number in the thousands as flocks gather for their winter staging. Small groups of Long-tailed Ducks have finally arrived. Counts of this species will increase substantially by late October. The first Bufflehead for this fall were also observed this week.
Notable sightings this week include a group of three Tundra Swans, spotted from McGulpin Point on 08/20/2023. A Northern Saw-whet Owl was found snoozing at Graham Point on 10/21/2023.
