The 39th Kleinburg Christmas Bird Count was held yesterday in less than ideal conditions with the help of 25 field observers and 8 deer watchers. Very strong winds and cool temperatures reduced both the number of individuals and species observed below the count averages. There was some open water in flowing rivers and streams and open patches on some of the larger lakes and ponds. A total of 48 species was tallied along with two count week birds (Merlin, Double-crested Cormorant) which is below the count average of 54 and well below the high of 61 species. No new species were seen leaving the total for the count at 117. Approximately 11,000 individual birds were recorded, below the count average of 12,000 and long way from the maximum of 19,000. Good birds for the day included Eastern Bluebird and American Coot. Notable misses included Belted Kingfisher, Snow Bunting, Horned Lark and Northern Harrier. Only two owls were seen, an Eastern Screech Owl and a Great Horned Owl and the number of individual raptors was also quite low. The only species that had high number was, as usual Canada Goose, with 6500 individuals, making up almost two thirds of the total number of birds counted. Thanks to all who helped out Bob Noble - CompilerBrampton _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] 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
