Fall 2004 Sightings Archive
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19 November
The fall migration season is now complete and all stations have been closed. Weekly reports will resume again in March. Have a great winter!
12 November
All good things must come to an
end. The weather guys were not exactly correct in their predictions, but
winds and cold temperatures cut back much of the banding at both stations.
The Tip field station was closed 9 November, bringing an excellent season
on the Tip of the Point to a close. Old Cut will continue to run its
migration monitoring program until 15 November, at which point LPBO’s
banding season will conclude.
Blackbird numbers peaked over the weekend and have dwindled
considerably from over 500,000 individuals to just over 80,000 daily.
Loons are on the move though in lower numbers than last week. Red-throated
Loons have been regularly spotted at the Tip. Tundra Swan numbers
increased over the period. Ducks maintained their abundance and
diversity; Greater Scaup and Common Merganser have shown an increase in
numbers, while species such as Long-tailed Duck and the three scoter
species were frequently observed. Other species such as Redhead, Common
Goldeneye, Northern Pintail, and American Wigeon were seen less
frequently. Among the remaining raptor species migrating through the area,
Rough-legged and Red-shouldered hawks were observed on a regular basis, .
Yellow-rumped Warblers have all but left; no more than 15 have been seen
daily at both stations combined. Field Sparrows remained in the vicinity
of Old Cut, even as the temperature dropped. Eastern Bluebirds have been
seen regularly at both stations during the period. The majority of species
observed at this point consist of wintering residents.
Old Cut had a good day 5 November. Among the hawks seen, a Northern
Goshawk, Peregrine Falcon and Bald Eagle flew over the station. Included
in the migration were Red-taileds (34), Cooper’s (4), and Sharp-shinned
(5) hawks and Northern Harriers (3). An adult and a hatch-year Northern
Shrike hung around the nets, but managed to avoid being captured. The
highlight of the 5th occurred about mid-day when a Cave
Swallow flew over the parking lot, affording excellent views to
those who witnessed the event. The Tip also reported a good movement of
hawks, including a hatch-year Golden Eagle, a Bald Eagle and a Peregrine
Falcon. Northern Shrikes (2) were seen during the day along with a
Short-eared Owl. A California Gull was
observed at the Tip of the Point, presumably the same individual who has
been observed over the past couple of weeks. An Arctic
Tern was reported as being heard, and then observed flying with a
number of Common Terns. The crew also banded an adult female Eastern
Towhee.
Winds out of the south-west hampered both the Tip and Old Cut for
the better part of the morning of the 6th. The winds did not stop two
hatch-year Golden Eagles from flying over Old Cut. The last White-crowned
Sparrow of the season was recaptured; none have been observed since. The
Tip also observed a Golden Eagle, which flew over the crew just above head
height, along with a few Northern Goshawks (6). Horned Grebes (4) were
observed out on the lake along with a Parasitic Jaeger. Included among the
banded individuals, the season’s 4th Long-eared Owl was captured,
leaving the crew at Old Cut in a fit of jealousy as none have been
captured there as of yet.
A hatch-year Northern Shrike was observed over the dogwoods of Old
Cut on the morning of the 7th. A Northern Goshawk blew through the woodlot
and Sandhill Cranes (3) were observed in the evening. A late Chipping
Sparrow was also seen. Eastern Screech Owls have begun their territorial
behaviour-two were observed during the owl-banding effort of the evening.
A lone Hermit Thrush was observed skulking through the woods. The 7th also
marked the peak of blackbird numbers with an estimated 570,000 individuals
in a mixed flock that continued flying out to the eastern marshes of the
point for roughly an hour. Horned (1) and Red-necked grebes (4) were
observed at the Tip, along with a few Northern Goshawks (3). A Snow
Bunting was observed hanging out at the Tip of the Point and the crew
banded the season’s first Lapland Longspur.
Golden Eagles reappeared on the 8th-both stations observed a
hatch-year individual. A Northern Shrike was observed once again at Old
Cut, along with a Northern Goshawk and Sandhill Cranes (3). Northern
Shovelers (10) were new for the period at Old Cut. Northern Goshawks (3)
and a Peregrine Falcon rounded out the raptors observed at the Tip.
Another Parasitic Jaeger harassed the gulls sitting at the Tip, thrilling
the crew yet again. Snow Buntings (4) also hung around the Tip, with much
less of an effect on the gulls.
The regular trend of Golden Eagles at Old Cut continued on the 9th
when a hatch-year was observed flying with a number of Bald Eagles (5).
This marks an estimated 15 individuals for the season at both stations
combined. Other hawks, such as Red-taileds (9), Sharp-shinned (3) and
Cooper’s (1) hawks and Northern Harriers (5) soared over the count area
during the morning. A Hermit Thrush was banded, among the 21 birds
captured during the morning. The Tip was in the midst of closing the
station for the season and was not banding-the winds were also not
helpful. However, Red-necked (3) and Horned (7) grebes were observed out
on the lake. An American Golden Plover was observed along the shore of the
Point. Another Parasitic Jaeger was also observed. A Northern Goshawk and
a Bald Eagle soared along, but hawk numbers were undoubtedly low.
Certainly the highlight was the season’s third sighting of a Cave
Swallow-the 2nd for the Tip; the bird tried to roost in the reeds
out in front of the cabin and had disappeared by morning. Snow Buntings
(14) were also observed.
Now that the Tip is closed, Old Cut has an ample supply of
personnel. This allows for increased observer effort, but that effort may
well be a little late. A Northern Shrike was observed attacking a ground
trap containing a couple of frightened birds on the 10th. Luckily a
volunteer was near by to rescue the startled birds; unfortunately, the
shrike was not trapped. A late Gray Catbird was observed in the woodlot.
Remembrance Day was indeed one in which the crew had much time to reflect
upon the efforts of our ancestors. Birds were scarce to say the least,
likely due to the combined heavy winds from the south overnight and time
of year. Species observed included a Little Gull, Bald Eagle, Sandhill
Crane and a Northern Goshawk. A Belted Kingfisher was observed hovering
over the channel. A late Gray Catbird and Chipping Sparrow were also
observed in the area.
With the season’s end in sight, the crew is left wondering “Where
did the season go”. Good fortune may be on our side for the remaining
days as predicted north winds may well bring one last push. Stay tuned.
5 November
Another exciting week has come
and gone. Both LPBO stations were able to get a fair amount of banding in
during the period. Common Loons were moving in large numbers early on in
the period and Red-throated Loons have been seen regularly at the Tip.
Ducks continue to raft in large numbers, specifically both species of
scaup and merganser, along with. Black and Surf scoters, and Long-tailed
Duck. Other regular observations of Rough-legged Hawk, Bald Eagle, Rusty
Blackbird, Snow Bunting and Eastern Bluebird have been reported at the
Tip. Old Cut has observed Red-bellied Woodpecker daily and the blackbird
flocks have reached breath-taking proportions. The crew is amazed with the
constant streams lasting up to 30 minutes at dawn and dusk, numbering over
100 000 individuals. Migrant sparrows have increased in number over the
period, specifically American Tree and Song sparrows. Yellow- rumped
continues to be the predominant warbler species moving through the area;
however, their numbers have averaged less than 10 individuals daily. A
number of late migrants have turned up at both stations over the past
period, including a couple of nice warbler species.
The crew at the Tip did not band many individuals on the 29th, but
observed a few goodies. A California Gull,
presumably the same individual from earlier reports, made an appearance
during the day. A Harlequin Duck was observed
with a few Long-tailed Ducks off the tip of the Point. A lone Hudsonian
Godwit was also observed, as well as a Clay-colored Sparrow. Old Cut did
not band many individuals either, but the crew observed a male Red-bellied
Woodpecker.
The 30th was a little more thrilling for Old Cut as an Evening
Grosbeak, Peregrine Falcon and White-eyed Vireo were observed. The Tip
added to the interesting species observations. Certainly the highlight was
a 2nd winter Black-legged Kittiwake observed
flying by the tip of the Point. Adult Little Gulls (2) and a 1st winter Lesser
Black-backed Gull were also reported. Red-necked and Horned grebes
made appearances. A Northern Goshawk and Peregrine Falcons (3) soared over
the field station, along with a good variety of raptors. Common Loons
(100) were recorded migrating in large numbers. Terns, such as Common
(180), Forster's (4) and Caspian (2) were also observed. Another 4 birds
observed were thought to be Arctic Terns.
Also noteworthy was a Common Raven observed
flying about the Tip in the company of American Crows. Two of the eight
Eastern Bluebirds observed were also banded.
The following day a sizable Eastern Bluebird (22) flock was
observed migrating over the Tip followed by a good number of Rusty
Blackbirds (130). Northern Goshawks (4) and Peregrine Flacons (5)
continued to move on the 31st, as did Common Loons (120); Little Gulls (2)
were also reported. A small gull seen at the Tip was thought to be a
first-winter Mew Gull. If accepted by
the Ontario Bird Records Committee, this would represent the first record
for the Long Point area. All Hallow's Eve proved to be a good night for
Northern Saw-whet Owl migration as the Tip banded 80 individuals along
with 3 Long-eared Owls. A Cackling Goose was
observed with a flock of Canada Geese. The Old Cut crew also had
Eastern Bluebirds (13) in a large flock flying by the parking lot. They
banded a few late migrants including a hatch-year male American Redstart,
a hatch-year female Black-throated Blue Warbler, as well as an adult
Grey-cheeked Thrush. Although a mere 16 owls were captured at Old Cut, 2
were already banded elsewhere.
The trick-or-treating did not stop on the 31st; both stations were
pulling many treats out of their respective (bird) bags on November 1st.
Included in the Tip’s 247 individuals, American Goldfinch (140) and Pine
Siskin (22) were well represented. A few late species through the Tip’s
lab on the 1st include House Wren, Grey Catbird, and American Redstart.
The morning’s highlight for the Tip had to be a Northern Shrike captured
about mid-day in the nets right by the cabin. After wounding a couple of
volunteers, the bird was banded and released – a somewhat bitter-sweet
moment. Other interesting observations from the Point include Red-necked
Grebes (2), Northern Goshawks (2), Yellow-throated Vireo (1), a late
Northern Parula and Eastern Bluebirds (3). Old Cut welcomed a group of
students from Woodstock to the station for part of the morning. The grade
9 and 12 group were witness to Old Cut’s answer to the Tip’s banding,
which came in the form of 165 individuals banded, the bulk of which
included American Tree Sparrows (40), Golden-crowned Kinglets (29) and
Slate-colored Juncos (25). Surprisingly, Field Sparrows (7) were still
being captured along with the larger sparrow species at Old Cut.
Rain kept both stations closed on the 2nd; however, the rain
brought a dark-phase Pomarine Jaeger to the
Tip, which was chased off by a group of daring Bonaparte’s Gulls. A fair
number of Long-tailed Ducks (66) were also observed along with Rusty
Blackbirds (46). Old Cut’s crew turned-up a Pine Warbler and a Vesper
Sparrow.
A beautiful November 3rd afforded Long Point with a sunny day –
something of a rare sight for both stations of late. The Tip raked in 335
individuals by the end of the day, the bulk of which included American
Goldfinches, Brown Creepers (27), Golden-crowned Kinglets (85), Song
Sparrows (15) and Northern Saw-whet Owls (104). Mixed in with the bulk
species were a hatch-year female Red-bellied Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebes
(2) and a female Rusty Blackbird. Of the remarkable number of Northern
Saw-whet Owls banded, 12 recaptures were netted: 3 were originally banded
at Old Cut earlier in the season; 4 originally banded at the Tip, plus 5
birds banded elsewhere. Thus far LPBO has captured over 25 foreign-banded
(birds banded elsewhere) Northern Saw-whet Owls. To compliment the banding
sample, the Tip crew observed a number of nice species including
Red-shouldered Hawks (2), Horned Grebe (1), Long-eared Owls (2) and
Eastern Bluebirds (2). Old Cut banded mainly Golden-crowned Kinglets (32)
and American Tree Sparrows (22) – of the 142 banded on the 3rd. A
Nashville Warbler was banded along with Field Sparrows (3) and a Grey
Catbird. Although the owl banding has not been as booming as the Tip, Old
Cut consistently nets about 20 Northern Saw-whet Owls a night, when in
operation. Early in the morning of the 3rd, Long-eared Owls (2) were
observed in the woodlot behind Old Cut, but remained undetected for the
rest of the day. Sandhill Cranes (2) and Long-tailed Ducks (10) rounded
out Old Cut’s observed highlights.
Wind and rain dampened the efforts at both stations on the 4th. The
poor weather was helpful in bringing a couple of Cave
Swallows to the Tip along with Red-throated Loons (4) and a Red
Phalarope (1). Old Cut had a fairly late Brown Thrasher observed near the
banding lab. Unfortunately, rain and wind are forecast for the next few
days, which could mean that LPBO’s banding season will end on a wet
note. No matter, the weather guys have been wrong before.
29 October
Well, a change in weather can
certainly make all of the difference. This past period afforded the Tip
and Old Cut some netting time, which paid huge dividends. The Tip has not
seen less than 120 birds in the lab daily, while Old Cut tried to keep up
that pace. Bird diversity has dropped, but individual numbers have spiked.
Warblers are a rare sight these days at both stations. Kinglets and
sparrow species, such as White-throated and White-crowned, have provided
the bulk of each station's banding and observation totals. Duck diversity
is still high out on the lake and numbers have increased over the past
week. Interestingly, Brant were observed
early in the week at the Tip, but none have been seen since 24 October.
Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons make regular appearances at the Tip,
along with Little Gull, Surf, Black and White-winged scoters, and Long-
tailed Duck. Old Cut's number of observed blackbirds continues to increase
with well over 80,000 individuals observed daily; Rusty Blackbirds
continue to flock with their cousins. Winter residents have arrived at
Long Point. American Tree Sparrows are becoming more numerous; Horned
Larks have shown-up at the Tip, along with Snow Buntings. Purple Finches
have been banded and observed at both stations regularly.
The 22nd brought two Orange-crowned Warblers to the Tip, one of
which was banded, along with a rather late Indigo Bunting, two Eastern
Bluebirds and two Sharp-shinned Hawks. A flock of six Brant
were also observed, along with a Red-throated
Loon. Old Cut also banded an Orange-crowned Warbler, but the
Eastern Bluebird seen in the area did not get trapped. Ruby-crowned
Kinglets (41) were the bulk species banded at Old Cut.
Brant (6) and a Red-throated
Loon were also observed at the Tip on the 23rd. Sharp-shinned Hawks
(108) were moving along with a Rough- legged Hawk. Blue-headed Vireos (63)
were observed in large numbers flying off of the point, including an
incredible 36 banded. Among the Tip's 313 banded that day were
Black-throated Green Warblers (4), Red- eyed Vireo (1), and Vesper Sparrow
(1). Old Cut also had a good number of Blue-headed Vireos (7), four of
which were banded along with a Black-throated Green Warbler. As well, a
Northern Mockingbird was observed, along with a Nashville Warbler.
The Tip banded considerably less passerines on the morning of the
24th (196). However, they were comforted with some very nice species
observed. Included in these observations: Red-necked
(3) and Horned (6) grebes; Brant (13); Black-bellied Plover (9); Hudsonian
Godwit (3); Rough-legged Hawk (24); Red-bellied Woodpecker (2); Northern
Shrike (2); and Pine (2) and Blackpoll (1) warblers, both species were
also banded. Despite the lower morning banding numbers, the crew
persevered with owl banding, which turned out to be very exciting. A
remarkable 130 Northern Saw-whet Owls were
banded at the Tip, while the crew out there estimated another 100 were in
the area. On top of the newly banded individuals, six foreign-banded birds
were trapped as well as four of Old Cut's birds. Just as the last of the
owls was being released, the crew began opening nets for the morning's
standard banding. The decision to carry on proved fruitful as 336
individuals were banded at the Tip; Old Cut banded 346. The main species
banded were kinglets. Between the two stations, 293 Golden- crowned and
159 Ruby-crowned kinglets were processed. Old Cut had over 200 of each
kinglet species, while the Tip estimated 850 Golden- crowned and 360
Ruby-crowned. Hermit Thrushes (39) were also numerous in both labs. Old
Cut banded three Nashville Warblers and observed Cape May (2),
Black-throated Blue (1) and Yellow-rumped (31) warblers. A Lark
Sparrow was observed at the Tip, while 100 000 Double-crested
Cormorants flew past there.
Snow Buntings arrived at the Tip on the 26th, along with a
Clay-colored Sparrow. Raptors were on the move: Red-shouldered (9), Broad-
winged (2), Rough-legged (19), Sharp-shinned (22) and Red-tailed (120)
hawks; Northern Harrier (4); Peregrine Falcon (2); and Bald (9) and Golden
(2) eagles were observed by the Tip’s crew. An After-second Year
Cooper's Hawk was recaptured as well. Old Cut recaptured the White-eyed
Vireo banded last week, but kinglets continued to be the main species
banded. Other species of note observed by Old Cut’s crew include
Sandhill Cranes (3), a Golden Eagle and a Scarlet Tanager.
The Tip continued its trend of interesting birds captured on the
27th when a Red-tailed Hawk was trapped-in a mist-net! The After-second
Year bird was reported to have been absolutely gorgeous. Slate-colored
Junco (64) was the main species banded. The California
Gull reported last week returned and afforded the crew a nice photo
session. Other observations of American Pipit (170), Snow Bunting (40),
and an American Golden Plover rounded out another great day for the Tip
crew. The Scarlet Tanager remained in the vicinity of Old Cut, along with
Sandhill Cranes (3).
A large number of Common Loons (150) were observed on the 28th at
the Tip. Other Raptors observed include Red-shouldered and Rough-legged
hawks. A Peregrine Falcon was observed blasting through one of the hawk
nets set up at the point during the morning. The female proceeded to land
on the beach and extract the netting that she had taken with her. American
Goldfinch (30) were the most abundant species through the lab at the Tip,
including Pine Siskin (6). Old Cut had a very mediocre day with 20
individuals banded. The drop in species diversity certainly has not had
much of an effect on the numbers of individuals migrating through Long
Point. With the arrival of winter residents, new species are turning up
daily; the first banded American Tree Sparrows and Snow Buntings are just
around the corner.
22 October
This past week began with foul
weather over the weekend. Tropical storm Matthew blew through Lake Erie
and brought with it a few good birds. Unfortunately, it had adverse
effects on banding for the earlier part of the period.
Sparrow numbers have increased over the past week, along with
numbers of kinglets. Black, Surf and White-winged Scoters have been
regularly observed at the Tip and overall duck species diversity and
abundance has increased out on the lake. Peregrine Falcons and Bald Eagles
are being seen regularly at both stations. Black-bellied Plovers continue
to visit the shores of the Tip, along with both yellowlegs species.
Blackbirds are being seen in the tens of thousands at Old Cut at dawn and
dusk. Mixed in with the Common Grackles and Red- winged Blackbirds, Rusty
Blackbirds squeak their way along. Yellow-rumped Warbler is the
predominant warbler at this point with regular observations of Cape May,
Nashville, Pine and Black-throated Blue warblers. American Robins have
been moving of late as well, with flocks numbering in the hundreds at both
the Tip and Old Cut. American Tree Sparrows have begun to arrive,
signaling what will soon be beginning of the end.
The 16th brought strong south-westerlies and a number of good
birds. Among the highlights observed, the Tip recorded a juvenile California
Gull, Brant (9), Peregrine Falcon
(10), Little Gull (9), Ruddy Duck (202), Cattle
Egret (2) and a Purple Sandpiper.
Up to 10 Little Gulls were counted in the corner of the Inner Bay off
BSC's HQ property.
The winds continued to howl overnight keeping the two Cattle Egrets
on the lawn in front of the Tip’s field station for much of the next
day. Peregrines were observed in good numbers (6) and many Merlin moved
through the point (25). An Eastern Bluebird was blown in and has hung
around the Tip since his arrival. To compliment the species observed at
the Tip, Old Cut recorded Northern Shoveler (10), Sandhill Crane (2),
Great Egret, Wild Turkey, and a Pine Warbler. The annual Autumn build-up
of Sandhill Crane numbers has begun. Several birds in the Big Creek NWA
were augmented by 18 birds in the fields along the Front Rd west of
Highway 59 on the 17th.
The 18th brought a nice movement with about 300 individuals banded
between the two stations. Ruby-crowned Kinglets (46) and American
Goldfinch (32) made up the bulk of the Tip’s banding, while Ruby-crowneds
(29) were the bulk of Old Cut’s banding.
The 19th brought a record-late Golden-winged
Warbler to the Tip mixed in with what was described as a constant
stream of Yellow-rumped Warblers where 3000 individuals were estimated
flying into the east winds. Common Loons were apparently on the move with
14 observed at the Tip. Old Cut had a good number of Yellow-rumpeds
observed (250), along with Eastern Bluebird (6), Pine Warbler and
Clay-colored Sparrow.
The morning of the 20th was a fairly successful one for the Tip
where 144 individuals were banded in under two hours; the bulk of which
included White-throated Sparrows and kinglets, as well as one
Orange-crowned Warbler. An amazing 78 Brant
were observed off the Tip, which is one of the largest flocks ever
observed at Long Point. Horned Grebe (3), Little Gull (2), and Peregrine
Falcon (10) were also noted. Along the south shore, a first-winter
Glaucous Gull and Parasitic Jaeger were observed during a boat trip out to
the end of the Point. The jaeger was followed to the Tip where it flew
over the on-looking crew conducting a lake-watch; pretty nice.
The 21st started off right for the crew at the Tip with a Henslow’s
Sparrow hopping around the willows at the end of the Point. The
good beginning continued with 363 individuals banded - 105 Ruby- crowned
and 73 Golden-crowned kinglets, 6 Sanderlings and 2 Dunlins were included
in the captures. A good hawk movement was also noted with 30 Sharp-shinned
Hawks and 10 Merlin observed. Other noteworthy observations included Brant
(9), Red-necked and Horned Grebe, Lesser
Black-backed and Little Gull, Long-tailed Duck (18) and an
Orange-crowned Warbler. Large numbers of sparrows and kinglets were
recorded at both Old Cut and the Tip. The Tip had by far the bigger
numbers - Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2000), Golden-crowned Kinglet (700),
White-throated Sparrow (400), White-crowned Sparrow (550), Slate-colored
Junco (300) and American Goldfinch (500). Old Cut recorded about 100
individuals for each of these species, save American Goldfinch. Raptors
noted this day on the mainland included Peregrine, Cooper's Hawk,
Red-shouldered, and Rough-legged hawks.
All told, the past week has been pretty exciting for both field
crews. As the season progresses, one can only wonder what lies ahead.
15 October
It was a pretty exciting week at
LPBO with larger numbers of migrants moving through, though diversity of
species has certainly dropped.
Cooler weather earlier
in the week afforded some pretty big days. The 7th was the
first night of Saw-whet Owl banding at the Tip as strong winds have
largely hindered the operation up until this point - two owls were banded.
We also saw a good push of Hermit Thrushes with 28 banded at the Tip and a
noticeable amount hopping around Old Cut. Yellow-rumped Warbler numbers
have also continued to be high with 356 and 550 ET’d at the Tip and Old
Cut respectively.
The 8th
continued to be interesting when 500 Common Terns were spotted off the
Tip. Other notable migrants included a Pine Warbler, Red-bellied
Woodpecker, Rusty Blackbird (60), and a fair assortment of warblers
including a late young male Blackburnian that was banded. Yellow-bellied
Sapsuckers were numerous as well with over 10 ET’d at Old Cut from the 7th
through the 11th and similar numbers at the Tip. Two
Orange-crowned Warblers were at Old Cut along with American Robins and
Red-winged Blackbirds, which also began picking up at the beginning of the
week. Robin numbers are not very high but there was a noticeable movement
through the area, 70 ET’d on the 8th.
The 9th was
a fairly good night for saw-whets at Old Cut with 16 caught including 1
foreign recapture. The Tip banded 3 with one recapture. During the owling
that night a Black-crowned Night Heron was heard squawking overhead.
Diving duck diversity was high at the Tip with 2 Surf Scoters, Ruddy
Ducks, both Scaup, Red-breasted and Common Mergansers and Long-tailed
Ducks flying past the point. 3 Horned Grebes were also seen. The 9th
also brought 2 Red-headed Woodpeckers to the Tip.
Two Sandhill Cranes
started the morning off on the 10th at Old Cut and a very late
Black-billed Cuckoo was found in the woodlot. Other late migrants pushing
through included 23 Bank Swallows, surprising a number of us in the
parking lot at Old Cut, and 8 Nashville Warblers with hundreds of Yellow-rumpeds.
To finish off the day, a beautiful (and large) hatch-year female Cooper’s
Hawk was banded at Old Cut. The Tip had 22 Rusty Blackbirds, a
Clay-coloured Sparrow, Orange-crowned Warbler, Vesper Sparrow and 20000
Double-crested Cormorants.
The 11th
was exciting with Yellow-rumpeds hopping around everywhere but into the
nets. Old Cut had its first Rough-legged Hawk (light morph), 62 Rusty
Blackbirds and 24 Tree Swallows flew by. The Tip had 66 Rusty Blackbirds,
the season's first Black Scoters (2), Surf Scoters (4), Common Loons (17),
and banded a late Blackpoll Warbler.
We experienced the
first real Saw-whet Owl push on the night of the 12th with 17
banded at Old Cut and 31 banded at the Tip. Old Cut also recorded a local
singing Eastern Screech Owl and a Long-eared Owl screaming in the woods
across the road. Sparrows also started to show their face a little bit
with a small jump in Slate-coloured Junco and White-throated Sparrow
numbers. Old Cut also had 3 Fox Sparrows to compliment one seen at
the Tip.
The 13th
was quite a bit slower though a few Rusty Blackbirds were still being
seen. The Tip had 5 Eastern Phoebes. Also exciting, for those of us at Old
Cut, was the capture of our second Cooper’s Hawk of the season, another
beautiful female.
Two Orange-crowned
Warblers were banded the morning of the 14th at Old Cut. One
hundred and fifty juncos were counted on the Tip census that morning as
well as an American Bittern and over 2000 scaup spp. The highlight for
many at the Tip on the morning of the 14th was an American
Woodcock that was banded.
Shorebirds have been
noticeable this week with Dunlins popping up along with some lingering
Black-bellied Plovers. Four American Golden Plovers flew over Old Cut on
the 11th and Greater Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpipers and
Killdeers were also seen during the week.
Common Grackles and
Red-winged Blackbirds are moving in full force. Their numbers started off
slow at the beginning of the period but an estimated 35,000 Common
Grackles and 3000 Red-winged Blackbirds darkened the skies over Old Cut on
the 12th. That same day 250 Rusty Blackbirds were observed.
Daily totals of over 10,000 Grackles and 5000 Red-winged Blackbirds have
been consistent since then.
Winter finches have
also started to appear in the area. Observers at Old Cut first noticed
Pine Siskin numbers on the 8th with 20 hanging around the tops
of the spruces most of the day . The Tip recorded 40 on the 13th.
Purple Finches have been much more noticeable at Old Cut with at least 10
observed on the 12th. White-winged Crossbills were heard flying
over Old Cut on the 10th and 2 were seen on the 11th
by a number of observers. A solitary Evening Grosbeak flew over the census
area late on the afternoon of the 12th, causing quite a stir.
Finally, there were a
fair number of Peregrine Falcons seen during the week. They were a regular
occurrence at the Tip with a high number of 3 on the 9th and 2
at Old Cut on the 14th. Other days Peregrines and hatch-year
Bald Eagles were spotted at the Tip.
We again invite
everyone to come visit the banding operation in the morning (or evening
for owls) at our Old Cut Field Station.
8 October
This past week started off slow
down on the Point, but livened up in the past few days as an abundance of
Yellow-rumped Warblers and kinglets continued to fill the trees.
The 1st of
October was slow at Old Cut with only 41 birds banded, but did produce
some goodies including a male Hooded Warbler, 5 Rusty Blackbirds and a
Red-bellied Woodpecker, which are much less abundant than they were in the
spring. The Tip had a glorious flycatcher day with 14 Eastern Phoebe’s
and an incredible number of 6 Eastern Wood-Pewees for this late in the
season! Two Peregrine Falcons were also seen joyfully playing about at the
Tip.
The high number of
phoebes continued onto the 2nd of October at the Tip and a late
Chimney Swift was observed. Two Black-billed Cuckoos were also present.
Old Cut was fairly unproductive as rain hindered operations.
The 3rd
remained quiet with a few earlier migrants, such as Magnolia Warblers,
American Redstarts, Ovenbirds and Northern Waterthrushes still kicking
around, both at the Tip and Old Cut. Old Cut also observed single
Orange-crowned and Hooded warblers.
Strong southwest winds
produced some shorebird movement on the 4th of October,
particularly at the Tip with 8 species observed including Pectoral and
Semipalmated sandpipers, Semipalmated Plover, Sanderling, Dunlin,
dowitcher spp., and one American Golden Plover. That same day 6 American
Golden Plovers flew over Old Cut. Wilson’s Snipe have also begun to move
with 3 recorded at the Tip and 4 at Old Cut.
Old Cut was a Mecca for little goodies that day with a
Orange-crowned Warbler banded, Hooded Warbler, Black-crowned Night Heron
and a Great Egret spotted on census. There was also a near-final push of
Tree Swallows with 180 counted at Old Cut and 54 at the Tip. Approximately
200 Turkey Vultures flew east past Old Cut at about 10 am and by around
300 pm, what is thought to be the same group started to trickle back after
being defeated by the dead-end flight out onto Long Point.
The cold front that
passed through on the 5th brought a fair number of migrants
down with 121 birds banded at Old Cut, the majority of which were Yellow-rumped
Warblers (27), White-throated Sparrows (16) and Ruby-crowned Kinglets
(15). We also banded the season's first Fox Sparrow, as well as an Eastern
Towhee and 5 of both Field Sparrow and Slate-coloured Junco. Surprisingly
not much happened at the Tip but both Common and Forster’s terns were
observed. Four other Forster’s Terns were also observed off the
Provincial Park on the 5th.
Things continued to
hop on the 6th as Old Cut banded 158 birds. Again, Yellow-rumpeds
(45) dominated the catch while Ruby-crowned and Golden-crowned kinglets
were neck and neck with 32 and 23 banded respectively. It felt like a trip
to the south-east United States at Old Cut as Nashville Warblers were the
second most abundant warbler with 10 banded. The day's catch also included
2 Tennessee Warblers, 3 Orange-crowneds and a beautiful after-hatch year
male Northern Parula. The Tip was fairly inactive as the rustling winds
kept the nets closed but they did observe 3 Peregrine Falcons making their
way along the lakeshore as well as two Surf Scoters and 57 Rusty
Blackbirds.
The 7th was
an excellent day at the Tip with about 150 birds banded This did not
include the Northern Saw-whet Owls from the night. The majority of the
banded birds were Yellow-rumpeds (36), Hermit Thrushes (20), kinglets and
Red-breasted Nuthatches. The highlight for the day was a beautiful
Yellow-throated Vireo. Other specialties included a Northern Parula,
Orange-crowned Warbler and 131 Rusty Blackbirds.
Sparrow numbers have
been steady through the period but they have not been overly abundant and
we are getting lots of re-captures suggesting a slow movement through the
area. Hermit Thrush numbers have just begun to increase and Red-breasted
Nuthatch numbers continue to be high. Another noticeable arrival during
the week was Pine Siskins which have been seen almost daily since the 3rd
when 16 were observed. Thirty more were observed on the 4th.
There has been a noticeable increase in the duck diversity
especially at the Tip with a lot of the divers starting to show up.
Northern Saw-whet Owl
banding has been slow at LPBO despite great weather and good numbers to
the north. The night of October 2nd, 6 owls were banded
including one foreign re-trap. This bird was originally banded in Port
Hope, ON., in 2000 as a hatch-year female. This would make this bird 5
years old!
The strong cold front
that is set to come through this weekend should provide us with a good
push of migrants over Thanksgiving. With a gobbler in the oven we’ll be
banding Northern Saw-whet Owls from approximately 800PM-1200AM, so feel
free to stop by and see the operation.
1 October
Apparently we can catch birds!
This past week was a major improvement from the month previous and there
is still lots to come. Warblers dominated the earlier part of the week
with kinglets and sparrows quickly taking over.
The 24th, where we last left off, was another slow, drawn out day
with the majority of birds being Magnolia, Blackpoll and Yellow-rumped warblers.
Old Cut had a Northern Parula, Black-crowned Night-Heron and 2 Peregrine
Falcons. The Tip also had 3 Peregrines and 5 American Golden-Plover. Every
Least Flycatcher we have been catching in the past week continues to be
thought of as the last of the Leasts, one such bird was banded as
well.
Our first really big banding day occurred on the 25th when the Tip
banded 121, 40 of which were Blackpoll Warblers and 18 were Gray-cheeked
Thrushes. Old Cut banded 6 Gray-cheekeds that day along with a small mix
of warblers, including one beautiful after-hatch year Connecticut Warbler.
No doubt the bird of the day and perhaps the period was a Worm-eating
Warbler spotted on census at the Tip. The evening at Old Cut was
topped off with a gray-phase Eastern Screech Owl, which was caught in the
owl nets on our first night of operation.
The Tip kept up the pace on the 26th by banding 105 including a
young male Hooded Warbler. The first
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker showed up at the Tip, although they have been
around Old Cut for about a week. The first bird of the day banded at Old
Cut was an after-hatch year male Whip-Poor-Will. Fourteen Gray-cheeked
Thrushes and 8 White-throated Sparrows dominated the 97 other birds banded
in the standard period. Warbler numbers were still high with 17 species.
The most numerous were Yellow-rumpeds (100 ET'd), Blackpolls (50), Common
Yellowthroats (20), Western Palm (17), Nashville (12), and, Black-throated
Blue (12). Two Saw-Whet Owls that night gave birth to Old Cut's first 100
bird day of the season with 89 species ET'd.
Still weather on the 27th put a damper on the bird action but Old
Cut still banded 65 birds and ET'd 91 species. The majority of the birds
were White-throated Sparrows (19) accompanied by a smattering of Wrens and
Warblers and Thrushes. A Sedge Wren was hanging out in the long grass
areas adjacent to the marsh. Other highlights for the day included
Black-crowned Night-Heron (1), Pine Warbler1(1), American Golden- Plover
(1) and 14 Rusty Blackbirds. The calm weather limited the bird action at
the Tip, although they did have a Peregrine Falcon.
Only 50 birds were banded on the 28th at Old Cut and strong NE
winds kept bird action at the Tip low except for another Peregrine and a
Whip-Poor-Will. The morning of the 29th was beautifully chilly. For the
first time in a while it felt like Fall. Eighty-two birds were banded at
Old Cut including an Orange-crowned Warbler, 10 Black-throated Blue
Warblers, and 26 White-throated Sparrows. A Northern Parula and
Connecticut Warbler also graced the Old Cut crew. The Tip had the year's
first Surf Scoter (4), and a late Whimbrel.
The 30th was by far the best day thus far in terms of numbers
banded and the number of birds around. Two hundred and thirty-three birds
were banded at the Tip and 139 birds were banded at Old Cut. Seventy-five
percent of the birds were kinglets, Brown Creepers, or White-throated
Sparrows. By far the most abundant birds on the day were Ruby-crowned and
Golden -crowned kinglets. Old Cut ET'd around 250 of each. The Tip's
diversity was very much the same although they had large numbers of Brown
Creepers. Nine Black-throated Blue Warblers were banded again at Old Cut
and it was estimated that there were about 30 in the area. Both the Tip
and Old Cut banded an after-hatch year male Orange-crowned Warbler. Old
Cut had the best owl night yet with 7 Northern Saw-whet Owls banded,
bringing the banding total on the day to 146.
There were a number of Red-headed Woodpeckers at both Old Cut and
the Tip during this period and there has been very little evidence of any
Red-bellied Woodpecker movement despite the high spring numbers. Warbler
diversity dropped almost at the exact same time as the kinglet and sparrow
numbers began to climb. Most of the sparrows have been White-throated
although Swamp and White-crowned Sparrows have also been numerous along
with a few Slate-coloured Juncos.
Dabbling ducks are fairly numerous flying over the marshes and
mergansers and other diving ducks have started to become more noticeable
at the Tip. Shorebirds are pretty much done, although Wilson's Snipe have
been recorded every day for the past week at Old Cut.
24 September
What a wonderful time of year to
have summer!!! I guess no one can really complain, we're finally getting
summer and a large majority of the earlier migrants are having a pretty
easy start to their journey. However, IT'S BEEN PAINFULLY SLOW,
banding-wise at least, at LPBO. This warm, calm weather hasn't so much
hindered migration as it has perhaps been perfect for it, or for the
nocturnal migrants at least. There have been a few clues this week that
hint that there is much more to come.
Breakwater was officially closed for the season on the 23rd of
September with a late Yellow Warbler there to help us shut down. Hundreds
of Blue-winged Teal and Wood Ducks were flying over the Long Point Company
marshes. The Tip has been extremely quiet this week with hawks
outnumbering passerines on most days.
The 16th was slow, though Old Cut banded its first Brown Creeper of
the season. Things definitely started to pick up there on the 17th with 75
species ET'd including a fair number of raptors, Black-bellied Plover, an
extremely late Purple Martin and 17 warbler species. The Tip had 3 loons
and 3 Whimbrels. The 18th was slower, but there remained a good diversity
of warblers (15 species) of which Magnolia's, Redstarts and Black-throated
Greens dominated. The Tip was DEAD with highlights being a banded Brown
Creeper and Mourning Warbler. They also managed to band 2 of 19
Sharp-shinned Hawks that were recorded that day.
Flycatchers were still lingering on the 19th with a Least, Eastern
Wood-Pewee and Olive-sided at Old Cut as well as a Yellow-bellied at the
Tip. Seventy-eight species were ET'd at Old Cut including a lovely young
male Northern Parula, 45 Yellow-shafted Flickers and 14 warbler species.
Yellow-rumped Warblers and White-throated Sparrows made their first real
appearance as well with 12 and 8 ET'd respectively. Sadly, 3
Golden-crowned Kinglets were also observed at Old Cut…signaling the
latter half of Fall migration!
Other hints of the end were very apparent on the 20th when the Tip
recorded a Rusty Blackbird, Pine Warbler and a Lesser
Black-backed Gull. They also banded their first White-throated
Sparrow of the season as well as what will probably be their last
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher. Meanwhile at Old Cut, Ruby-crowned Kinglet
females have started to flutter around the wood lot and, incredibly,
Magnolia's and Redstarts were still the dominant warbler species. A
Black-crowned Night Heron (not a common bird at Long Point) flew over Old
Cut the same evening.
The Pine Warbler hung around at the Tip on the 21st, but sadly
that's pretty much all that was around. Ten thousand Double-crested
Cormorants were also recorded at the Tip, 6 of which were colour banded.
We have not yet learned of their origin. Old Cut remained slow banding
wise, but still had a fair number of warblers and 74 species, the
highlight being a late Great-crested Flycatcher. The first Blue-headed
Vireos also arrived at Old Cut and the Tip with 1 and 3 banded
respectively.
The 22nd was similar although 31, 000 Cormorants were estimated
flying by the Tip, including another 6 that were colour banded. The Tip
also recorded their first Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and Golden-crowned
Kinglet. The first Yellow-bellied Sapsucker of the season arrived at Old
Cut on the 19th. The Tip also banded a second-year Yellow-billed Cuckoo,
which is a little late. Old Cut had 13 warbler species including another
Northern Parula.
Ninety-five species were ET'd at Old Cut on the 23rd! Nineteen
warbler species were recorded including a beautiful male Pine Warbler.
Dominant warbler species were Magnolia's (25), Yellow-rumpeds (30),
Western Palm (20), and Blackpoll's (36). Other specialties at Old Cut
included an Olive-sided Flycatcher and a Grasshopper Sparrow that was
skulking around the dike. There was also a bit more warbler action at the
Tip but still not much in the way of numbers.
Eagles have been extremely reliable at the Tip with 2 to 8
individuals recorded daily. Shorebird species for the period included both
yellowlegs, Ruddy Turnstone, Whimbrel, Sanderling, Black-bellied and
Semipalmated plovers and Least, Solitary, Spotted and Pectoral
sandpipers.
Incoming cool weather this weekend will hopefully concentrate some
migrants on the Point. The Owl nets will be up and running this Saturday
the 25th, although full owl coverage will not commence at Old Cut until
October 2nd or 3rd, weather permitting.
17 September
The remnants of Hurricane Frances
were long gone by last Friday and left us with south winds for most of the
week. Very clear, warm nights have been great for migration, although
there has not been any unstable weather activity to really concentrate
migrants anywhere on Long Point.
The 10th of August was fairly productive at Breakwater with 87
birds banded, the majority of these being Magnolia Warblers (14),
Swainson's Thrushes (12) and Black-throated Blue Warblers (9). The Tip and
Old Cut were slower but both had fairly high warbler diversity (18 species
at the Tip, including Northern Parula). The Tip ET'd 72 species that day
including a Red Knot, 72 Sanderlings, 34 Red-breasted Nuthatches (which
have started to build in numbers) and a good number of hawks, mostly
Sharp-shinned. There was also an Olive-sided Flycatcher sitting on the
tops of the spruces at Old Cut.
The 11th through the 16th was unbearably slow by most accounts.
Magnolias (13 banded at Old Cut on the 12th), Redstarts and Black-throated
Blues continued to dominate the warbler numbers. Nine shorebird species
were at the Tip on the 12th, including a Willet. Also at the Tip on the
12th, a beautiful after hatch-year Cape May Warbler was banded along with
18 Blackpolls, the first sign of any real Blackpoll movement. The next day
the Tip banded a male American Kestrel.
Breakwater had another Olive-sided Flycatcher on the 13th. It has
been a fairly busy year for this species, with all three field stations
recording them on half a dozen occasions.
A large flock of warblers moved through Old Cut on the 14th
including 60 Magnolias, 12 Black-throated Blues, and 25 Redstarts, as well
as a smattering of other species. A Great Egret flew over the marsh at Old
Cut on the 14th and the first Lesser Black-backed
Gull of the season was at the Tip.
A few flycatchers are still milling about with two Yellow-bellieds
at Old Cut and about half a dozen Leasts at the Tip on the 15th.
Sanderlings were a dominant species at the Tip on the 15th with 89, four
of which were banded, much to the volunteers' delight. They are quite
possibly the cutest birds to ever get in the hand…rivaling Semipalmated
Plover and perhaps American Woodcock.
Swainson's Thrushes have been the dominant thrush, averaging about
10 a day at Old Cut, with a few Gray-cheekeds and Veerys in the mix as
well.
With prospective north winds in the near future it is hoped that
the numbers of migrants will increase in the area. We're still waiting for
fall to really show its face.
10 September
Migration slowed considerably
this week with Summer finally arriving in time for the Labour Day long
weekend with hot sunny weather. Gusty southerly winds and rain showers
marked the start of the first full week of September. The remnants of
Hurricane Francis passed through on Wednesday night bringing more rain and
strong easterly winds but no vagrants. The clearing front on Thursday the
9th was accompanied by a good passage of hawks.
While LPBO didn't band large numbers of birds this week, they did
have some high quality captures. The bird of the week was a hatch-year
Loggerhead Shrike captured at the Tip station on September 5th. This bird
was sporting a regular band and a combination of colour bands that
precisely identified its origin. This individual was banded a month ago,
on 4 August 2004 near Tobermory, Ontario. It was the result of a
successful breeding by a pair of captive Loggerhead Shrikes that had been
placed in a breeding pen situated in an area of suitable breeding habitat
on the Bruce Peninsula. The young produced each year by the captive flock
of Loggerhead Shrikes are all colour-banded prior to being released. This
was the first time one of these pen-reared young birds had been re-sighted
after leaving the nest area. It is also the first record of a
colour-banded Ontario Loggerhead Shrike being captured or re-sighted on
migration. Another interested fact is that this particular individual
appeared to have been planning to have frog legs for breakfast as there
was a dead frog with it in the net! The normal diet of Loggerhead Shrike
at this time of year is mostly grasshoppers, crickets and other large
insects; however, they are known to eat a wide variety of small
vertebrates including birds, rodents and snakes as well as frogs.
Other banding highlights this week were all at Old Cut and included
a stunning Golden-winged Warbler on the 4th, a Bay-breasted Warbler on the
5th, an adult male Mourning Warbler on the 6th, and both Bay-breasted and
Mourning warblers on the 9th. Sightings from Old Cut included a Pine
Warbler on the 8th, and an Eastern Screech-Owl found on the 4th and
relocated in the same tree the next day.
Although bird diversity at Breakwater was down from the previous
week, 74 species were seen on the 4th. Cormorant numbers increased
throughout the week reaching 183 on the 5th. Other noteworthy numbers
included 29 hummingbirds on the 5th; 28 Lesser Yellowlegs and 15 Common
Nighthawks on the 7th; 362 Cedar Waxwings, 244 American Goldfinches and 52
Magnolia Warblers (and 11 other warbler species) on the 8th; and 6 Bald
Eagles and 7 Black Scoters on the 9th. Other interesting sightings this
week at Breakwater included Whimbrel (2 on the 2nd and the 9th), Parasitic
Jaeger (1 on the 6th and 8th, 3 on the 9th), Long-tailed Jaeger (1 on the
9th), Long-tailed Duck (8th), Northern Goshawk (6th), Horned Grebe (2 on
the 8th), Horned Lark (8th), and Cerulean Warbler (8th). A good variety of
shorebirds were also seen at Breakwater including Red Knot (7th), Ruddy
Turnstone (8th) and Buff-breasted Sandpiper (9th).
Highlights from the Tip include Northern Parula (3rd), Peregrine
Falcon (5th), Pomarine Jaeger (8th), Whimbrel (2 on 8th and 9th),
Buff-breasted Sandpiper (2 on 8th), and the first Greater Scaup and
Bufflehead (both on the 8th). The Tip also had a good variety of shorebird
species with 11 species on the 8th and good numbers on the 9th including
68 Sanderlings and 12 White-rumped Sandpipers.
On the 9th, a variety of hawks were reported at all stations
including Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper's Hawk,
Broad-winged Hawk, American Kestrel, Merlin, and a Peregrine Falcon (at
Breakwater). All the regularly occurring swallow species were also
observed on the 9th.
3 September
"Maybe September will be
better"... LPBO had a typical August, with a couple of good days but
now that September has arrived, the LPBO crew is getting pretty excited
about the migration ahead. Hawks will begin moving in increasing numbers
and passerines should improve in both diversity and abundance.
The cold fronts this week brought a nice mix of passerines to the
area, including 27 species of warblers. Noteworthy among them were a Lawrence's
Warbler at the Tip August 29th, a banded Brewster's Warbler at
Breakwater on August 30th and a banded Hooded Warbler at Old Cut on the 1st
of September. Other warbler species of note included Connecticut and
Golden-winged warblers and Northern Parula. Breakwater had the greatest
diversity recording 25 of the 27 warbler species observed at the three
stations. August 29th included the season's first Western Palm Warbler at
Old Cut and a Prairie Warbler spotted at Breakwater, which hung around for
two days. The best morning this fall occurred on August 30th when
the crew at Breakwater reported 100 species censused within one hour! A
remarkable number observed in such a short time.
Among the highlights mentioned above, two Yellow-throated Vireos
were also observed. The predominant warbler species among the three
stations were Magnolia, Chestnut-sided, Black-throated Blue, Canada and
Black-and-white warblers. Of the flycatcher species still moving
through, Least Flycatchers are the most numerous. The Tip tallied 40+ Least Flycatchers on the 30th, banding
15 of them. All three stations
observed Olive-sided Flycatchers during the week with three
at Breakwater on the 29th. Breakwater also recorded 20 Eastern
Wood-Pewees and an Orchard Oriole on August 28th.
Cedar Waxwings have been observed moving in larger groups this past
week with over 200 individuals seen almost daily. Merlins have made their
presence felt each day at all three stations, sometimes buzzing the on-lookers. As many
as four at once have been observed. Old Cut banded an after hatch-year
female Whip-poor-will early on the morning of the 30th. Sandhill Cranes
have been seen at both Old Cut and Breakwater since August 30th. Bald Eagles
have also been spotted regularly along the Point, including observations
of a juvenile banded by BSC's Bald Eagle Recovery Program team.
Common Terns have been accumulating at the Tip during the period. The
largest estimated count was over 500 on the 28th of August. The beach at the Tip
may be littered with boaters on the weekends, but the shorebirds have
taken over during the week. Though not as numerous as sunbathers, their silhouettes in
the dawn sky are a wonderful sight. Highlights included Baird's Sandpiper
(25, 27 August), Whimbrel (27, 31 August), 40 Sanderling (27 August) and a
Red Knot (30 August).
Now that things are starting to pick up, one can only imagine what
excitement September will bring to the Long Point area.
27 August
Almost every August, the crew at
LPBO thinks, 'maybe this August won't be so slow'. By the end of August
the same crew is usually hoping that September will be better. This has
been the case thus far, especially at the Tip and Breakwater where wind
has shut down most of the operation for the past week.
The 20th of August proved to be the most exciting day of the
period. Fifty-seven birds were banded at Old Cut including a lovely Belted
Kingfisher. The rest of the catch was dominated by Yellow Warblers (11),
American Redstarts (6), Magnolia Warblers (4) and a smattering of
flycatchers. The Tip wasn't as busy with passerines but had the season's
first Whimbrel, White-rumped Sandpiper and Virginia Rail, helping to bring
their species total for the day up to 71! Breakwater was also hopping,
with an astounding 105 species ET'd including Northern Shoveler, Peregrine
Falcon, Yellow-throated Vireo, as well as the season's first
Orange-crowned, Pine, Golden-winged, Blue-winged and Bay-breasted
warblers. A young female Orchard Oriole was also banded.
The rest of the week was pretty quiet on most fronts. Old Cut
averaged 20-30 birds banded daily, while the Tip and Breakwater banded
much less due to wind. Never the less, the Tip recorded the highest number
of Least Flycatchers for the season with 14 on the 21st. On the 22nd, two
Buff-breasted Sandpipers showed up at the Tip and stayed until the 24th.
Two Long-tailed Ducks were also recorded at the Tip throughout the period.
The seasons first Scarlet Tanager was banded at the Tip on the 25th.
All totalled, LPBO recorded 23 species of warblers this past week,
a sure sign of things to come. There are also good numbers of shorebirds
moving through the area. For example, a flock of 40 Greater Yellowlegs was
counted at the Tip on the 26th while a group of 12 flew over Old Cut that
same morning.
Hummingbirds are starting to accumulate and will soon be seen
zipping off the Tip. Predicted cold fronts in the next few days may also
help to increase migrant numbers.
20 August
All three stations are now up and running with a full slate of long-term volunteers plus the four interns. Migration continues to be slow with no major excitement this week. Swallows are the most numerous diurnal migrant, but small flocks of Cedar Waxwings are also moving and some raptors. Breakwater reported Merlin, American Kestrel, Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, several Northern Harriers and 5 Bald Eagles. A Red-shouldered Hawk and up to 3 Bald Eagles (two immature and one adult) were seen at the Tip. Other highlights at the Tip included an immature Black-crowned Night-Heron (15th), Long-tailed Duck (1 on the 17th and 2 on the 19th), Whimbrel (19th), American Golden Plover (19th) and small numbers of various other shorebirds. A Black-bellied Plover was reported at Old Cut (18th) and the Tip (19th), and two Solitary Sandpipers were at Old Cut on the 19th. Warbler numbers and diversity are increasing, with 12 species observed including several Canadas and Blackburnians, a Black-throated Blue at the Tip, and a Cape May at Breakwater. At Old Cut, many local breeders are still being observed including recently fledged House Wrens, catbirds, cardinals and a Common Yellowthroat feeding a cowbird chick. Other signs of breeding evidence included a female American Goldfinch with a brood patch and an optimistic Cedar Waxing carrying nesting material on August 19th!
13 August
Last week's Painted
Bunting continued to visit the feeder at the Hidden Valley
Campground until Monday of this week. Unfortunately, it has not been
seen since. An American White Pelican
was observed flying west over the Turkey Pt marsh last Sunday
evening. The bird was observed a few minutes later sitting on the
waters of the Inner Bay but it has not been seen since.
Things are just about in full swing at LPBO! The migration
monitoring season officially started on August 10th at Old Cut. The most
notable movement has involved the swallows with 887 Banks, 99 Trees and
146 Barns on the 10th of August and 947, 25 and 99 respectively on the
12th. These numbers are nothing major but a good sign of things to come,
especially once Breakwater is opened in a few days.
The 11th of August was slow due to high winds and fairly clear
weather, however the small cold front that passed that evening sparked a
little action on the 12th. Although only 29 birds were banded, 59 species
were ET'd, the highest total for the season thus far. Dominant migrants
include Yellow Warblers (35 ET'd), Gray Catbirds (though some are local
birds) and a decent number of orioles and empidonax flycatchers.
Even cottagers in the nearby community have commented on the number of
orioles at their feeders. Eight Baltimore Orioles were banded on the 12th
and 23 were ET'd that day. One special surprise on the 12th was a
hatch-year female Orchard Oriole. We also banded a stunning hatch-year
male Blue-winged Warbler. Given his plumage now, we can only imagine how
bright he'll be next spring.
There has also been a smattering of other migrants in the past few
days. We've had a moulting adult female Tennessee Warbler and a moulting
adult Swainson's Thrush hanging out in the woodlot. Both these species
often moult somewhere along their migration route. There have also been
one or two Northern Waterthrushes, Ovenbirds and Common Nighthawks. Large
mixed blackbird flocks have been congregating in nearby fields but have
not yet made their way in large numbers on to the Point.
Four Doug Tarry Young Ornithologist Workshop Interns headed
out to the Tip on the 12th to help set up the station for the fall and
start a research project on weight differences with respect to holding
times of birds banded. We hope to have Breakwater up and running at full
strength by the 15th. The migration in August is often hard to gauge and
usually slow, however, there are few migrants about and upcoming cool
nights predicted which suggest that it might not be too bad this
month.
6 August
The bird of the summer was
discovered 5 August at the Hidden Valley campground in Normandale. A
second-year male Painted Bunting was observed
at a feeder in the trailer park. This is the 4th record for the Long Point
area and the first one for the mainland. The cooperative bird was
observed by many and is still present on the 6th.
Intermittent migration monitoring began on August 1st at Old Cut as
part of the Doug Tarry Young Ornithologist Workshop. The majority of the
58 birds banded on the 1st were local nestlings, however a fair number of
migrant Yellow Warblers and Gray Catbirds were also present. Swallow
movements have begun to pick up with Bank Swallows increasing almost
daily. Mixed blackbird flocks are also becoming more abundant. Other than
that there are only a smattering of songbird migrants, including a
Swainson’s Thrush banded on the 1st of August and a Yellow-bellied
Flycatcher banded on the 3rd. On August 5th, we banded what is thought to
be an extremely old male Cedar Waxwing. He had waxy tips extending off of
each of his secondaries and some upwards of 0.5- 0.75 cm in length. He
also had fine waxy tips on his central two tail feathers and small ones
developing throughout the rest.
Shorebirds have also started to move into the area, as elsewhere.
Sanderlings are the most common shorebird on the point besides Killdeer
and Spotted Sandpipers. Other species documented in the area are
Semipalmated and Least Sandpiper, and Semipalmated Plover. On July 29th, 6
species of shorebirds were at the Tip including 4 Red Knots, 6 Willets,
Semipalmated Sandpiper, Killdeer, Spotted Sandpiper and Greater Yellowlegs
which can also be found at the BSC HQ pond.
