The Straits feature an impressive waterfowl diversity during late-October flights. Counts of Redhead (4,348) and Long-tailed Ducks (3,445) increased dramatically this week as winter approaches. White-winged Scoters (383) and Red-breasted Mergansers (1,277) were also among the most common migrants.
A two day span of West winds (Oct 27 and 28) brought productive flights of dabblers. These counts included significant numbers of American Black Duck (51) American Wigeon (86) and Gadwall (17).
Notable sightings this week include a surprise Short-eared Owl at Graham Point! The bird flew in off the lake during a dense fog on 10/25/2023. A nearby group of crows harassed the owl until it retreated back over open water, vanishing into the fog. An immature Northern Goshawk was spotted from McGulpin Point on 10/28/2023.
Different waves of passerine are now passing through the Straits. Flocks of Snow Buntings are a common sight in late fall. Groups are easily identified in flight by bright white wing patches. As most warblers have moved on, sparrow diversity is a highlight of October. An immature Harris’s Sparrow was found among the flocks of White-crowned Sparrows at Graham Point on 10/23/2023. This represents the first record for Mackinac County!
