The last week of September was enjoyable for the waterbird count! Winds intensified and shifted from the north, resulting in considerable movement.
Geese flights have continued to be productive. Although counts are dominated by Canada Geese, late fall is a great time to witness mixed species flocks. A flight of 1,456 Canada Geese on September 30th included a Snow Goose and two Cackling Geese.
Flights of aythya ducks have increased dramatically. Small groups of Ring-necked Ducks (188) early in the week have quickly made way for continuous large flocks of Redhead. Greater (80) and Lesser Scaup (43) have also returned in smaller numbers, often mixed in with groups of Redhead. A total of 2,685 Redhead were recorded this week. Substantial late fall staging groups will return to the Straits by early November.
Loon have entered their peak fall movement and counts are growing quickly. A nice push during a southeast wind on September 24th included 156 Common and 17 Red-throated Loon. Weekly results totaled 380 Common and 19 Red-throated Loons. The first week of October should be particularly productive for migration of these species.
Dabbling ducks are finally on the move. Consistent sightings of Gadwall (52), American Wigeon (67), and Green-winged Teal (45) was a highlight this week. Both Wood Duck (3) and Northern Pintail (21) were also observed sporadically.
Sandhill Cranes (1674) have started their southbound migration through the Straits. Flocks have been gathering in mass at agricultural fields north of the bridge. An impressive flight of 1,554 was recorded during a northeast wind on September 26th.
Other notable observations this week include an early adult Iceland Gull (1)! This individual was spotted late in the afternoon from Pointe LaBarbe heading west on September 28th.
We have now crossed the halfway point of the season. The upcoming weeks will continue to be productive for the waterbirds as most species enter peak flights. October is an exciting time of fall migration that should hopefully yield some unexpected surprises!