After one week, the waterbird count is off to a fast start! A warmer winter has resulted in less ice cover, and the majority of the Straits is already open water. Many species are returning quickly to take advantage of the early thaw.
Overall, Red-breasted Mergansers have dominated most counts this week. Common Goldeneye, Long-tailed Ducks and Redhead were also sighted regularly. Significant numbers of these species are now using the area for staging. These resting groups of ducks will forage and often perform elaborate courtship displays.
Highlights from this week include a migrating pair of Trumpeter Swans. Mating pairs of this species typically stay together throughout the year. Additionally, two Snowy Owls were spotted resting on drifting patches of lake ice.
