The Carleton Place CBC took place on Dec 27th in the middle of this bitterly cold patch (B. Frum Day) . 38 brave souls wandered the fields and forests typically with only their eyes visible. In addition 22 feeders were monitored.
The count had low numbers both of individuals and species; 5379 individuals and 40 species; both roughly 10% below the average. The main reason being the geese had all but left, there are still very few northern birds (Grosbeaks, Redpolls, Siskins, Crossbills and Finches) as well as few raptors. Of course there are always highlights including 4 records: * First Shorted-eared Owl ever for the count seen sitting on a step * Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 - only second one every seen on a CBC * Rusty Blackbird 1 - tied existing record * Dark-eyed Juncos 310 - up over 10% from the last record Every one enjoyed a post snack and drink at the count in hosted by the Social Committee of the MVFN. A big thank you to all volunteers for braving the weather to contributing to this worthwhile effort by citizens. A personal Best o' the Season to all and a Happy New Year! Iain _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
