This was a relatively slow week for waterbirds. Consistent calm southerly winds resulted in little movement from most species.
The first big push of Canada Geese occurred this week. A single day count of 4,036 from Graham Point on 09/11 was a highlight for the count. This flight also included a single Cackling Goose (1) migrating alongside a flock of Canada Geese on their way south. The Straits has two major flightlines for geese. Massive flocks pass directly over both Pt LaBarbe and Mackinac Island as they move south.
Common (56) and Hooded Mergansers (10) are already on the move and have been observed daily this week. The first Red-breasted Mergansers (14) for this season were recorded as well. The bulk of merganser migration will eventually take place towards late fall.
Passerines activity has been enjoyable during this week’s spell of calm weather. Warblers are passing through on their way to the neotropics and won’t be around for too much longer. Get out and look for them while they are still around!
