Waterbirds migration was in full swing this week! A lengthy spell of rain and northwest winds yielded considerable movement.
Productive scoter movements have been a major highlight. White-winged Scoters make up the bulk of observations, including a flight of 108 on October 15th. Dark-winged Scoters, which migrate through in smaller numbers, are now observed more frequently. Surf Scoter (15) have been recorded almost daily. The first Black Scoters (2) of the season were spotted on October 19th!
Loon migration reached its peak this week. Flight-lines are generally high up and greatly spaced out, making counts tedious. A west wind on October 20th produced a notable single day movement of 394 Common and 13 Red-throated Loons! Over 300 loons were recorded heading east during the first hour of the count, from 8-9am.
Long-tailed Ducks have finally returned! These late season migrants are a sure sign that the fall season is nearing its end. A productive count of 409 was recorded on October 15th. Impressive flights of Long-tailed Ducks in the thousands can be expected during the first week of November.
Notable sightings from this week include a small flyby group of White-rumped Sandpiper (3) on October 21st. Morning passerine flights have including Evening Grosbeak, White-winged Crossbill, and Common Redpoll, pointing to a productive year for winter finches!