The weather for the 18th Belleville CBC was mostly foggy and dark, and most species numbers were generally lower. However, high numbers of Canada geese were seen in the open waters of the Moira river, and so the total number of individuals (6139) for the count was about 10 % below average.
Twenty-three birders counted 50 species plus 5 count week species (Iceland Gull, Great black backed gull, Common merganser, Swamp Sparrow, and Winter Wren). Notable misses were Red-breasted nuthatch, Purple Finch, Belted kingfisher, Sharp shinned Hawk and Snow bunting. Red winged blackbird and Great Blue heron were seen just outside count week. A highlight was a Gray catbird seen on Philburn Rd, the 100th overall species in the Belleville CBC history. Other highlights included 1 of 2 wintering Peregrine Falcons that are either found on the Quinte Courthouse or the Bay bridge, an immature Northern Goshawk (possibly 2), Chipping Sparrow, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and a smart looking leucistic (80% white plumage) Red-tailed Hawk that flew before a photo could be snapped by the compiler. This bird may be wintering in the area. Thanks to everyone who participated." Tom Wheatley Belleville CBC Compiler _______________________________________________ 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
