Hi Birders
The weather played a big part in the count this year, with atrocious conditions, no snow, rain, wind or cold temperatures. Birders were seen coming into the roundup with smiles on their faces, something we are not used to on the Duncan count. No whining or complaining was heard, just jokes and laughter.
Let’s hope we can get back to some normal conditions next year.
Early results suggest that our total will be the same as last year 103 species, with Common Redpolls taking the honors as best birds of the day, seen in several locations. This is a new species for our count I believe. Three count week species were never found sadly.
Eurasian-collared Doves saw a new record with over 20 birds, 16 of these were on one hydro line in Cherry Point, much to the delight of the area leader.
This year we had not one alcid, something that I find really strange, maybe they are all up Island.
Two species of warblers were found, Yellow-rumped and Townsends.
My group had a good day around Somenos with 57 species found. We missed several easy birds this year, failing to find Pied-billed Grebe or Belted Kingfisher. Many thanks to Aziza for keeping all the numbers and compiling our sheet at the end and the company of Jeremy.
I will post our final totals when compiled.
Many thanks to all participants for their tireless help on this years count and all previous ones.
Wonderful food was provided by the many helpers at the roundup and they have my major thanks for their efforts. What would we do without you?
Derrick Marven
North Cowichan, BC
Still looking for my ear trumpet.