Mid-October is a fantastic time for fall lakewatching. Daily counts continue to be highly productive. Some species of waterbirds prefer to migrate during specific weather conditions. Each day brings a different variety of species moving past the count sites.
Flights of scoters are one of the most exciting aspects of the count during late fall. White-winged Scoters (197) movements have been particularly productive this week. Small numbers of Surf Scoter (3) migrants were also recorded. Individuals are often spotted flying alongside larger White-winged Scoters. We are still awaiting the first Black Scoters of the season!
Diving ducks are late fall migrants. Numbers have steadily increased from the end of September. Flights of diving ducks are still dominated by Redhead (5,580), including a strong push of 3,980 on October 14th. Small flocks of Greater Scaup (137) are now sighted regularly. The first triple digit count of 104 was recorded on October 14th.
Small numbers of a variety dabbling duck species are still passing through. The bulk of these numbers are primarily Mallard (46) and American Wigeon (48).
Common Loons (412) continue to move in significant numbers. A strong push of 179 on October 14th included a single flock of 9 (photo provided). Red-throated Loons (23) often will often migrate alongside Common Loons, offering a nice comparison for the subtle differences between species.
Mute Swans (10) sightings have occurred regularly since mid September. Trumpeter Swans have been scarce so far this fall season. Hopefully some additional swan migrants are recorded in the coming weeks! Tundra Swans are late season migrants and can be expected to arrive by the first week of November.
