Flocks of migrant ducks are slowly returning to the Straits area. Early season flights continue to be dominated by Common Loon, Red-necked Grebe, and Canada Geese.
Recent counts have produced consistent sightings of Blue and Green-winged Teal. Small flocks of Redhead have arrived as well. This week included the first of fall Red-throated Loons and Horned Grebes. Wood Ducks and American Black Ducks were also highlights.
Shorebird abundance has decreased from last week. On 08/30/2023, a flyby Stilt Sandpiper was recorded from Graham Point (photo provided).
During a strong wind on 09/02/2023, an immature dark morph Parasitic Jaeger was observed in dynamic flight from McGulpin Point. It paused briefly to perform a dramatic aerial pursuit of a Ring-billed Gull, before continuing West.
A skulking immature Yellow-billed Cuckoo was found foraging on large caterpillars at Graham Point on 08/27/2023.
