[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC The 74th annual Ulster County Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML)Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted this past Saturday, December 16,2023, under extremely mild and clear weather conditions. Organized by the John Burroughs NaturalHistory Society, thisyear’s count will be remembered for the fantastic weather and record-breaking diversity,establishing a new record high species count and adding several new species tothe historical count composite. Waterfowl, sparrows, wrens, and blackbirds were prominentin this year’s remarkable count. Combinedeffort (participation, field parties, and field party hours) continues toincrease and surpass historical averages. A total of 65 participants (60 field observers and 5 feederwatchers) in 20 field parties tallied 25,850 individual birds representing 88species, plus two additional unique count-week species (Killdeer andClay-colored Sparrow). For historical context, our previous all-timerecord high count for this circle was 87 species in 2017, and our ten-yearaverage is 79 species/year. Total abundancein any given year is greatly influenced by the widespread presence or lack of afew species that tend to congregate in very large winter flocks (geese, crows,robins, starlings, and blackbirds). Thisyear, large flocks of Icterids inflated our abundance number well-above our 14,778ten-year average, eclipsing our previous all-time record high count of 22,307 in2017. A first ever Sedge Wren wasseen, heard, and photographed at close range under excellent viewing conditionson Hudson Valley Farm Hub private property, also representing a first winterrecord (December-February) for Ulster County based on the John BurroughsNatural History Society Checklist of Birds of Ulster County. Sedge Wren is rare in the county in Spring,Summer, and Fall, but has a recent history of occurring at the Farm Hub,including a pair that recently remained for the summer months. Congratulations toAnne Bloomfield, Silas Wareham, and the Farm Hub team for this outstandingrecord. Peter Schoenberger found a countweek Clay-colored Sparrow one day before the official count, on private farmlandsouth of the Farm Hub off Hurley Mountain Road. This rare find is also a first NYML count record, and a first UlsterCounty winter season record. A search ofthe farmland on count day by yours truly failed to produce the bird for a countday record. A lingering Double-crested Cormorant was observed andphotographed on Sturgeon Pool in Rifton, representing another first countrecord. Double-crested Cormorant is occasionallyfound in the county during mild winters, especially along the Hudson River, buthas managed to elude detection on the NYML CBC for the past 73 years, a count areathat is inland, lacking substantial bodies of open water in a typical winter. Congratulations to Deb Weltsch and her field party for this addition to the historical compilation, now advancing to 149 species with 5 additional count-weekonly species (species encountered three days before, or three days after thecount, but not on count day). Additional highlights include twoGreen-winged Teal in a small wooded swamp by Duke’s Pit, representingonly our third historical record for this count circle. Several species were detected for just the fifthtime; two Cackling Geese on Spring Lake off Lucas Avenue in Kingston, atotal of six Northern Pintail at two separate locations, a lone EasternPhoebe on Fording Place Road, and one Red Crossbill at a private residenceon Lapla Road. Two Wood Ducks in LouisaPond is our eighth historical record, and both Peregrine Falcon and a ChippingSparrow observed in a farm field off Hurley Mountain Road represent a ninthoccurrence. A raft of nineteen Gadwallon Stone Ridge Pond is our tenth record, and Northern Saw-whet Owl and AmericanPipits have only been recorded in eleven previous years, but havebecome more frequent in recent years, appearing on six out of the last ten counts. A count-week Killdeer on the Farm Hubwas our seventh historical record. Record high counts wereestablished or tied for the following 24 species (previous high count andten-year average in parentheses). Common Grackle – 11,019(ten thousand more than our previous high count, 45 avg.) Red-winged Blackbird – 1,145(nearly five times the 233 in 2020, 76 avg.) Gadwall – 19 (17in 2022, 4.4 avg.) Northern Pintail – 6 (5in 2014, 0.8 avg.) Ring-necked Duck – 137 (62in 2022, 15 avg., abundant open water, large rafts) Hooded Merganser – 83 (57in 2001, 17.4 avg.) Barred Owl – 11 (9in 2022, 5.8 avg.) Belted Kingfisher – 12 (tied12 in 2022, 5.6 avg.) Red-bellied Woodpecker – 154 (153in 2018, 116 avg.) Downy Woodpecker – 170 (169in 2018, 147 avg.) Pileated Woodpecker – 49 (40in 2018, 27 avg.) Merlin – 4 (tied4 in 2019 and 2016) White-breasted Nuthatch – 306 (267in 2014, 193 avg.) Brown Creeper – 31 (20in 2009, 11.4 avg.) Winter Wre
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 73rd annual Ulster County Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted this past Saturday, December 17, 2022, under very pleasant weather conditions. A total of 57 participants (52 field observers and 5 feeder watchers) in 20 field parties encountered 11,169 individual birds representing 72 species, plus three additional count week species (pending any late additions). The above totals do not include one additional review species (Golden Eagle) which may lack sufficient documentation, and one outstanding field party report. For historical context, diversity was eight species below our ten-year average (80), and total abundance was down 3,475 individuals (14,644 ten-year average). Our all-time record high count for this circle remains at 87 species/22,307 individuals, both recorded in 2017. Combined effort (participation, field parties, and field party hours) continues to increase and surpass historical averages. Environmental conditions were favorable for conducting a survey, less than desirable for concentrating birds or encouraging any discernible movement of birds into our count area. Count day temperatures were relatively mild (31 – 43 °F) with 5-12 mph NNW winds interspersed with periods of calm throughout the day. Early morning fog was followed by sunshine and variable overcast, with increasing clouds later in the day. No precipitation was recorded on count day, snow depth varied from .5" to 3", covering 30-70% of terrain, depending on location and exposure. Moving water was mostly free of ice, flowing high and rapidly. Still bodies of water were mostly to entirely frozen. Stone Ridge Pond was 50% open, Fourth Binnewater Lake attracted a nice diversity of waterfowl, Ashokan Reservoir was frozen in one count section, open and choppy in the lower basin area. Most species were detected in below average numbers, typical of results in mild Decembers with fair weather preceding the survey and persisting through the count day. Despite the relative overall lack of birds, ten species were detected in sufficient numbers to tie or establish new record-high counts: Gadwall - 17 (surpassing 16 in 2016, 2.8 ten-year average). All on Stone Ridge Pond. Ring-necked Duck - 62 (28 in 2014, 9 avg). 61 on Fourth Binnewater.Bald Eagle - 23 (18 in 2015, 10.7 avg). Widespread throughout the count circle. Red-shouldered Hawk - 14 (9 in 2017, 5 avg)Red-tailed Hawk - 86 (84 in 2018, 60 avg)Barred Owl - 9 (ties 9 in 2018, 5.3 avg)Belted Kingfisher - 12 (11 in 2020, 5 avg)Tufted Titmouse - 517 (419 in 2015, 303 avg). A remarkable increase in a year when active bird feeders were few and far between.Winter Wren - 15 (12 in 2017, 6.7 avg) Carolina Wren - 121 (ties 121 in 2018, 72 avg) A count week Northern Shoveler found on Stone Ridge Pond represents a first record for the historical count composite (currently 151 species plus 4 count week). One Lesser Scaup on Fourth Binnewater, and a count week Northern Pintail on Stone Ridge Pond represent the sixth time each species has been recorded on this count. The aforementioned Golden Eagle report, if accepted, would represent a fifth record for this count. The immature bird was seen by a single observer flying at ~1,000 feet over Berme Road in High Falls. There were no record low counts, and no particular species stands out as a bad miss. Red-headed Woodpecker, increasingly more abundant and widespread in the county and apparently visiting a suet feeder in the count circle, was a disappointing miss when they were not detected during a drive-by of the feeder location and nearby breeding grounds. Horned Grebe was not encountered on Ashokan Reservoir this year, present in 40 of the past 72 years, concentrations of this species in our area are typically associated with northern lakes freezing over and driving more birds south. Common Loon, Rough-legged Hawk, Great Black-backed Gull, and Eastern Meadowlark are species previously encountered in at least twenty or more years that were not detected this year. Ruffed Grouse (46 past years) and Evening Grosbeak (34 years) were also missed, but are no longer expected on this count. Lastly, the greatly anticipated Ross's Goose that graced Stone Ridge Pond over a four-day period apparently departed just three days shy of count week. A complete report with a list of participants and effort information will be published in the John Burroughs Natural History Society newsletter at a later date. Appended below is the species list with number of individuals. Thanks to all of the field participants and feeder watchers for another nice job of providing excellent coverage, to the sector leaders for recruiting and organizing their field parties and submitting their data in a timely manner, and to Mark DeDea, Kyla Haber, and everyone that helped with refreshments and arrangements at our post-count compilation in the Hasbrouck
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
-Original Message- From: Steve M. Chorvas To: midhudsonbi...@groups.io ; nysbirds-l@cornell.edu Sent: Wed, Dec 22, 2021 8:42 am Subject: Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results The 72nd annual Ulster County Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted this past Saturday, December 18, 2021, under challenging weather conditions. A total of 54 participants (47 field observers and 7 feeder watchers) in 19 field parties encountered a total of 17, 670 individuals representing 83 species, plus five additional count week species, pending any additions. For historical context, diversity was five species above our ten-year average, and total abundance was up 3,865 individuals. Participation was also above average this year, approaching if not exceeding a record high effort. Our all-time high count for this circle is 87 species and 22,307 individuals, both recorded in 2017. Overall, most species were present in near average numbers, with a few noteworthy exceptions. Several field parties reported large flocks of American Robins, difficult to accurately count as they foraged on an exceptional abundance of berries. Our final conservative tally was 5,949 individuals, setting a new record high while greatly surpassing our previous high count of 3,504 in 2017. New record high counts were also established for Bufflehead (11, compared to 8 in 2018), Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (46, eclipsing 40 in 2017, 20 avg.), Hermit Thrush (16, eclipsing 13 in 2017, 6.6 avg.), American Pipit (138, greatly surpassing 41 in 2015), and Yellow-rumped Warbler (28, double our previous high count of 14 in 2017). Four Northern Pintail (4th occurrence), one Peregrine Falcon (6th), three Chipping Sparrows (7th), and three Gadwall (8th) are unusual species for this count, with few previous records. Three additional unusual species were encountered during the count week period, three days before or three days after count day. A count week Palm Warbler represents a first record for the historical count composite, Golden Eagle (previously one in 2017 and 1998), and Cackling Goose (4th occurrence) were also found during the count week. Roving flocks of Canada Geese and ubiquitous American Crows were diminished or inactive this year, each amounting to less than half their current ten-year averages. Personally, over more than four decades of participation in various CBCs, I can not recall ever going all day without seeing or hearing an American Crow, encountering just two individuals very late in the day in waning light. Birds that typically flock in large numbers have a significant influence on our total abundance number, and this year the impressive flocks of robins effectively balanced the lack of geese and crows. There were no new record low counts, and no particular species stands out as a bad miss, with all of the expected species detected this year. Common Loon, Rough-legged Hawk, Great Black-backed Gull, and Eastern Meadowlark are species previously encountered in at least twenty or more years that were not detected this year. Ruffed Grouse (46 past years) and Evening Grosbeak (34 years) were also missed, but are no longer expected on this count. Environmental conditions can best be described as wet and dreary with low visibility on count day, and exceptionally mild with no hard freezing or snowfall during the weeks prior to the count. Temperatures were relatively mild (34 – 39 °F), changing little throughout the day. Early morning provided the best surveying conditions, with no wind or precipitation under heavy overcast skies. Light rain with occasional sleet and mist moved in by late morning and persisted for the duration of the count day. There was no snow cover, and all bodies of water were open with moderate flow rates, providing little incentive for birds to congregate, with most feeders attracting relatively little activity. A complete report with a participant list and effort information will be published in the John Burroughs Natural History Society newsletter at a later date. Appended below is the species list with number of individuals. Thanks to all of the field participants and feeder watchers for excellent coverage, and to the sector leaders for recruiting and organizing their field parties and submitting their data in a timely manner. Steve M. ChorvasMohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC CompilerSaugerties, NY 2021 NYML CBC Summary List Snow Goose – 1Cackling Goose – cwCanada Goose – 1,258Mute Swan – 5 Gadwall – 3 American Black Duck – 44Mallard – 341 Northern Pintail – 4 Ring-necked Duck – 20 Bufflehead – 11 Common Goldeneye – 5 Hooded Merganser – 28 Common Merganser – 43 Wild Turkey – 21 Horned Grebe – 8 Great Blue Heron – 6 Black Vulture – 3 Turkey Vulture – 14 Golden Eagle – cw Northern Harrier – 9 Sharp-shinned Hawk – cw Cooper's Hawk – 13 Accipiter sp. – 1 Bald Eagle – 8 Red-shouldered Hawk –
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 72nd annual Ulster County Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted this past Saturday, December 18, 2021, under challenging weather conditions. A total of 54 participants (47 field observers and 7 feeder watchers) in 19 field parties encountered a total of 17, 670 individuals representing 83 species, plus five additional count week species, pending any additions. For historical context, diversity was five species above our ten-year average, and total abundance was up 3,865 individuals. Participation was also above average this year, approaching if not exceeding a record high effort. Our all-time high count for this circle is 87 species and 22,307 individuals, both recorded in 2017. Overall, most species were present in near average numbers, with a few noteworthy exceptions. Several field parties reported large flocks of American Robins, difficult to accurately count as they foraged on an exceptional abundance of berries. Our final conservative tally was 5,949 individuals, setting a new record high while greatly surpassing our previous high count of 3,504 in 2017. New record high counts were also established for Bufflehead (11, compared to 8 in 2018), Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (46, eclipsing 40 in 2017, 20 avg.), Hermit Thrush (16, eclipsing 13 in 2017, 6.6 avg.), American Pipit (138, greatly surpassing 41 in 2015), and Yellow-rumped Warbler (28, double our previous high count of 14 in 2017). Four Northern Pintail (4th occurrence), one Peregrine Falcon (6th), three Chipping Sparrows (7th), and three Gadwall (8th) are unusual species for this count, with few previous records. Three additional unusual species were encountered during the count week period, three days before or three days after count day. A count week Palm Warbler represents a first record for the historical count composite, Golden Eagle (previously one in 2017 and 1998), and Cackling Goose (4th occurrence) were also found during the count week. Roving flocks of Canada Geese and ubiquitous American Crows were diminished or inactive this year, each amounting to less than half their current ten-year averages. Personally, over more than four decades of participation in various CBCs, I can not recall ever going all day without seeing or hearing an American Crow, encountering just two individuals very late in the day in waning light. Birds that typically flock in large numbers have a significant influence on our total abundance number, and this year the impressive flocks of robins effectively balanced the lack of geese and crows. There were no new record low counts, and no particular species stands out as a bad miss, with all of the expected species detected this year. Common Loon, Rough-legged Hawk, Great Black-backed Gull, and Eastern Meadowlark are species previously encountered in at least twenty or more years that were not detected this year. Ruffed Grouse (46 past years) and Evening Grosbeak (34 years) were also missed, but are no longer expected on this count. Environmental conditions can best be described as wet and dreary with low visibility on count day, and exceptionally mild with no hard freezing or snowfall during the weeks prior to the count. Temperatures were relatively mild (34 – 39 °F), changing little throughout the day. Early morning provided the best surveying conditions, with no wind or precipitation under heavy overcast skies. Light rain with occasional sleet and mist moved in by late morning and persisted for the duration of the count day. There was no snow cover, and all bodies of water were open with moderate flow rates, providing little incentive for birds to congregate, with most feeders attracting relatively little activity. A complete report with a participant list and effort information will be published in the John Burroughs Natural History Society newsletter at a later date. Appended below is the species list with number of individuals. Thanks to all of the field participants and feeder watchers for excellent coverage, and to the sector leaders for recruiting and organizing their field parties and submitting their data in a timely manner. Steve M. ChorvasMohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC CompilerSaugerties, NY 2021 NYML CBC Summary List Snow Goose – 1Cackling Goose – cwCanada Goose – 1,258Mute Swan – 5 Gadwall – 3 American Black Duck – 44Mallard – 341 Northern Pintail – 4 Ring-necked Duck – 20 Bufflehead – 11 Common Goldeneye – 5 Hooded Merganser – 28 Common Merganser – 43 Wild Turkey – 21 Horned Grebe – 8 Great Blue Heron – 6 Black Vulture – 3 Turkey Vulture – 14 Golden Eagle – cw Northern Harrier – 9 Sharp-shinned Hawk – cw Cooper's Hawk – 13 Accipiter sp. – 1 Bald Eagle – 8 Red-shouldered Hawk – 5Red-tailed Hawk – 50 Ring-billed Gull – 16 Herring Gull – 132Rock Pigeon – 423Mourning Dove – 322Eastern Screech-Owl – 4Great Horned Owl – 4Barred Owl – 7Belted Kingfisher – 7Red-headed Woo
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 71st annual Ulster County Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted on December 19, 2020. Forty-two (42) participants in eighteen (18) field parties encountered a total of 13, 325 individuals representing 79 species, plus one additional count week species. Compared to our recent past, diversity was one species above our ten-year average (78) and total abundance dipped slightly below 13,805 individuals/count. Our all-time record high count for this circle is 87 species and 22,307 individuals, both recorded in 2017. Birds that typically flock in large numbers and have a significant influence on our abundance number were relatively scarce this year (geese, crows, starlings, robins, etc.). Environmental conditions also influenced the final tally again this year. Clear morning skies with bright sunlight and little to no wind made for reasonably pleasant viewing and listening conditions, despite rather frigid air temperatures ranging from -3° F to 27° F. The challenge this year was negotiating 18” deep snow cover and high roadside snow banks that limited access to some sites, including most roadside pull-off opportunities. Snow-covered cornfields were largely devoid of geese, crows, turkeys, and other associated field birds. Most bodies of still or slow-moving water were frozen solid, including 90% of Stone Ridge Pond, further limiting habitat available to waterfowl. Conversely, extensive deep snow cover provided incentive for a few species to congregate on roadside edges, where they were easy to spot and count. Unprecedented numbers of sparrows, most notably Dark-eyed Juncos, were frequently encountered foraging on plowed roadside shoulders. For the first time in our count history, two lingering Eastern Phoebes were found on count day, one foraging roadside along Fording Place Road in Lomontville, the second at a pond in the Ulster Park Maple Ridge Community. Recorded as single individuals on five previous counts, the roadside flycatcher did not appear to be finding much in the way of sustenance picking at the narrow strip of bare ground. A single Fish Crow was heard vocalizing in New Paltz (6th count record) and a Vesper Sparrow (4th count record) was observed associating with a small flock of sparrows that included two first-winter White-crowned Sparrows along Hurley Mountain Road. Two presumably different Peregrine Falcons (7th count record) were observed, one high in flight over the Rondout area in Kingston, the second perched on a tree overlooking a cornfield on the Hurley Flats. One Northern Saw-whet Owl was our 11th count record, and a Merlin was seen in fading light at the Wiltwyck Golf Course in Kingston for our 12th count record. One Eastern Towhee was seen during the count week period by a feeder-watcher in Ulster Park, but not on count day. New record high counts were established for Common Merganser (63, exceeding 59 recorded in 1973), Cooper’s Hawk (18, eclipsing 16 in 2017), Belted Kingfisher (11, eclipsing 9 in 2012), Common Raven (71, nearly three times the previous high count of 25 in 2015, a remarkable increase for a species that was typically encountered in low single-digits a decade ago), Red-breasted Nuthatch (101, considerably more than the previous record count of 43 in 1987 and our ten-year average of 7/year, accurately reflecting what has been a major irruption of this species into out area this past season). Dark-eyed Junco (3,385, a mega increase from the previous high count of 1,828 in 2016 and our ten-year average of 1,169/year, perhaps highlighting how many individuals are typically missed on a CBC when birds are spread throughout the landscape with no compelling elements to mass in easily accessible areas.). White-throated Sparrow (1,055, eclipsing 1,029 in 2019), Song Sparrow (289, eclipsing 234 in 2019), Northern Cardinal (282, eclipsing 257 in 2014), and Red-winged Blackbird (233, supplanting a 64-year old record 221 established in 1956, largely the result of 190 birds counted at a feeder-watch on Martin Sweedish Road in New Paltz). Irruptive winter finches were relatively few in number and diversity, consisting of Purple Finch (6), Common Redpoll (7), and Pine Siskin (16). One Gray Catbird, one Rusty Blackbird, three (3) Great Blue Herons, sixteen (16) Bald Eagles, and eight (8) Red-shouldered Hawks were tallied on count day. Red-headed Woodpecker was missed for the first time on this count since 2010, and we failed to find any Black Vultures or Turkey Vultures, despite favorable sky conditions. Only one Ring-billed Gull (163 ten-year average) and two Great Black-backed Gulls represented the Laridae family, with Herring Gull missed entirely (186 ten-year average). No species detected on this year's survey set a new record low count. Thanks to all of the field participants and feeder watchers for excellent coverage, commitment, and organi
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 68th annual Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir Christmas Bird Count (Ulster County) was conducted on Saturday, 16 December 2017, under relatively pleasant weather conditions. Collectively it was another exceptionally productive count, following last year's record-breaking number of species. Pending review of several unusual species for this count circle, a tentative new high total of 87 species were found on count day, plus an additional 2 species during the count week period (Mute Swan and Merlin), exceeding last year's record 84 species and well above our ten-year average of 76 species/year. Abundance also set a new record high, with 22,300 individuals greatly exceeding our previous high count of 16,092 birds in 2008 and our ten-year average of 13,242. The total number of individuals was greatly influenced this year by 5,811 Canada Geese, a number that was adjusted down by more than 1,000 birds in an attempt to reduce potential duplication from roving flocks; and an incredible 3,504 American Robins (2,027 recorded by just one field party). Our effort also set a new record high with 15 field parties, 44 field observers, and 4 feeder watchers contributing to the final numbers. Highlights include our first record of a Greater White-fronted Goose, nicely photographed in a field associating with a large flock of Canada Geese, advancing our 68-year cumulative to 147 species. Three species were recorded for only the second time in this count's history, a Golden Eagle observed in flight over the Farm Hub (our previous record in 1998), and a Canvasback (previously 3 in 1972) and one White-winged Scoter (previously 4 in 2011) on Ashokan Reservoir. A lone Eastern Phoebe was recorded for only the third time, and last appeared on this count in 2008. Two Peregrine Falcons (single individuals observed by two separate field parties) represent our fourth count record and a new high count; and one Long-tailed Duck was also our fourth count record for this species, absent from this count since 1975. (A Black Scoter was observed just outside the count circle and would have been a first count record, and photos of a possible Slaty-backed Gull are under review, with the gull currently listed as an unidentified gull species.) None of the species found on this year's effort set a new record low count. An additional 19 species were found in sufficiently high numbers to tie or set new record high counts (HC), with all of our regularly occurring woodpeckers detected in remarkably good numbers: Cooper's Hawk (16, eclipsing 12 in 2015) Red-shouldered Hawk (9, eclipsing 7 in 2014) Great Horned Owl (14, double the previous HC of 7 in 2014 and well above our 2.4 ten-year average) Barred Owl (7, tying the previous HC from 2010, double the ten-year average of 3.5) Red-bellied Woodpecker (141, well above the previous HC of 101 in 2016 and our ten-year average of 71) Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (40, more than double our HC of 19 in 2016, four-times our ten-year average of 10/year) Hairy Woodpecker (45, surpassing 40 in 2014) Northern Flicker (47, nearly double our HC of 24 in 2015 and well above the 14.3 ten-year average) Pileated Woodpecker (33, edging out 31 from 2011 and 2014) (one Red-headed Woodpecker is always a good find, occurring for the 13th time on this count with a previous HC of 3 in 1984; and 158 Downy Woodpeckers just missed our previous HC of 161.) Northern Shrike (1, tying our previous high counts, our 8th overall record) Winter Wren (12, eclipsing 8 in 2012, well above our ten-year average of 3.2) Golden-crowned Kinglet (80, eclipsing 75 in 2009) Hermit Thrush (13, edging out 12 in 2013) American Robin (an amazing 3,504 birds, incomparable to our previous HC of 942 in 1998) Yellow-rumped Warbler (14, tying our HC from 1989) Fox Sparrow (11, surpassing 7 in 2015) White-throated Sparrow (984, more than double the 488 recorded in 2008) Song Sparrow (222, eclipsing 180 in 2012) American Goldfinch (495, well above our previous HC of 335 in 2014) A complete summary report will appear at a later date in the John Burroughs Natural History Society newsletter and on their website. Thanks to all of the participants for a remarkable effort, and once again this year a special thanks to Kyla Haber, Mark DeDea, and everyone that helped with preparing the food and facilities for the post-count compilation at Hasbrouck Park. Steve M. Chorvas Saugerties, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
Saturday, December 17, 2016 Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Despite challenging weather conditions that produced consistently heavy snowfall with very low visibility throughout much of the first half of the count day, the 67th annual Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted yesterday in Ulster County, NY. Inclement weather, especially a snow event, often has the affect of concentrating birds in sheltered locations and at various food and water resources, typically producing more favorable count results in comparison to an average winter day or exceptionally pleasant conditions. This was apparently the case yesterday as twelve field parties collectively found a new record high 84 species, shattering the previous high count of 79 species from previous years (2014, 2012, and 2007), and well above our most recent ten-year average of 74 species/year. A remarkable ten bird species considered rare or unusual for this particular count circle were encountered on count day, including one species recorded for the first time in the 67-year history of this survey. American Coot was a new addition to the count composite, advancing our historical total to 147 species. Lapland Longspur was found for only the third time, the first since one was recorded in 1988. Peregrine Falcon was also recorded for just the third time, following single records in 2012 and 2009. A Wilson's Snipe represents our fourth overall record (last recorded tens years ago in 2006), a lone Killdeer and a Long-eared Owl were found for only the fifth time, Wood Duck was our sixth record, Gadwall and Merlin were found for the seventh time, and American Pipit was our eight overall record for this CBC. The total number of Merlins (4) represents a new high count, reflecting their expanding presence and wider distribution in the county, with geographically distinct individuals observed by three different field parties. New high counts were also established for Snow Geese (1,285, eclipsing 870 in 2013), Gadwall (16, eclipsing 8 in 2015 and 1993), Rock Pigeon (598, previously 538 in 2005), Red-bellied Woodpecker (101, previously 97 in 2015), Yellow-bellied Woodpecker (19, previously 16 in 2013), Savannah Sparrow (21, eclipsing 14 in 2014), and Dark-eyed Junco (1,822, eclipsing 1,722 in 2013). Our final tally of individuals (13,778) ranked above our recent ten-year average of 12,811, but was greatly influenced this year by a total of 3,919 geese (1,285 Snow/2,634 Canada), following in the wake of an enormous southward movement of Snow Geese flying over the county, with over ten-thousand birds observed in just a few daylight hours on one day earlier this past week. Overall numbers of gulls and American Crows were well below average, but no new record low counts were set for any species. An adult male Yellow-headed Blackbird seen and photographed in the count circle associating with a large flock of mixed blackbirds on two separate occasions just prior to the start of count week was not observed on count day and may ultimately be relegated to the status of a sore count week miss, pending any last-chance appearance over the remaining three days of count week. A summary report with the complete list of species tabulated by sector, including area descriptions and observer and effort information, will be posted on the John Burroughs Natural History Society web site. I gratefully extend by thanks and appreciation to all of the nearly 40 participants who provided complete coverage of the count circle under difficult circumstances, and to those who tried to make it out to their assigned routes but were snowed-in and unable to do so. To everyone that attended and brought something to our always enjoyable post-count compilation at Hasbrouck Park, and to the sector leaders that were not able to make it to the compilation but submitted their data in a very timely manner. And most especially, my sincere thanks and gratitude for Kyla Haber and Mark DeDea for organizing the compilation event and preparing the bulk of all the great food. The 2017 Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC is scheduled for the traditional first Saturday of the count period, December 16, 2017. Steve M. Chorvas Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Compiler Saugerties, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES.htm http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birding.aba.org/maillist/NY01 Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 66th annual Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted on Saturday, December 19, 2015, under exceptionally mild and pleasant field conditions. Forty-eight participants in twelve field parties encountered a total of 13,953 individuals representing 78 species, plus two additional count week species. This year's total diversity was one shy of our record high 79 recorded in the years 2014, 2012, and 2007. Our total number of individuals was 1,708 fewer than last year's effort, and 2,139 short of our record high 16,092 set in 2008, but above the most recent ten-year average of 12,302 individuals/year. Temperatures remained above freezing throughout the count day, ranging from an early morning low of 33 degrees (F) to an afternoon high of 38 (F) on the Lomontville Flats in Hurley. Winds were persistently strong overnight with gusts up to 35 mph, potentially hampering some of our efforts to detect owls. Clear sunny skies and calmer winds predominated early to mid-morning, followed by overcast skies during the afternoon period. No precipitation was recorded during the count day. Field conditions were characterized by a complete lack of snow cover and ground frost, and entirely open water throughout the count area. Night skies were mostly overcast, with minimal moonlight. This year's count did not record any new species, however, two species were encountered for only the second time in the count's sixty-six year history. Two Cackling Geese associating with a large flock of Canada Geese on Spring Lake off Lucas Avenue in Kingston were previously recorded for the first time last year from the same location, and one American Woodcock in full courtship display over a private field in Marbletown was recorded once previously on this count in 2011. Stone Ridge Pond on Mill Dam Road in Stone Ridge hosted two unusual species of waterfowl for this December count. Five American Wigeon represent a new high count and only the fourth occurrence for this species on the NYML CBC; and eight Gadwall tied our previous high count and represent our sixth overall occurrence. Two Wood Ducks on Maple Ridge Community property in Ulster Park were recorded for only the fifth time, one Northern Saw-whet Owl and two Merlin were recorded for the sixth time, and a lone Chipping Sparrow represented our seventh historical record. One Pied-billed Grebe was observed in the Wallkill River in New Paltz, two Red-headed Woodpeckers were present in their breeding swamp along Weston Road on the New Paltz/Esopus town line, and a Northern Shrike was observed in a field off Lenape Lane in New Paltz during the count week period, but was not detected on count day. New high counts were also established for Bald Eagle (18, eclipsing 10 in 2014), Cooper's Hawk (12, eclipsing 9 in 2014), Red-bellied Woodpecker (97, eclipsing 85 in 2014), Northern Flicker (24, eclipsing 22 in 1992), Tufted Titmouse (419, significantly exceeding 364 from 2014), American Pipit (41 in two flocks of 25 and 16 on the Lomontville cornfields, representing our seventh overall record and eclipsing our previous high count of 21 in 1994), and Fox Sparrow (7, including a remarkable six in one shrub, eclipsing the previous high count of 5 in 1989). Twenty-five Common Ravens tied last year's record high count. American Robins were well represented with 592 individuals, one Hermit Thrush was found, and blackbirds were modestly represented by 15 Red-winged Blackbirds, 4 Common Grackles, and 37 Brown-headed Cowbirds. We were not able to locate a lingering Gray Catbird, and we also did not detect any irruptive winter finches in the count area (siskins, redpolls, and grosbeaks) or half-hardy warblers, compared to 26 past occurrences of Yellow-Rumped Warbler on this count. Common Goldeneye (previously recorded in 31 years), Common Loon (18 prior years), Rough-legged Hawk (22 years), Horned Lark (33 years), and Ruby-crowned Kinglet (19 years) were also missed on this year's count. A complete table summarizing the count results by sector, with area descriptions and observer and effort information will be posted on the John Burroughs Natural History Society web site. Thanks to all of the participants for their fine effort in providing extensive coverage of the count circle, and special thanks to Mark DeDea for making the arrangements for our post-count compilation at the Olympic Diner in Kingston. Next year's Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC is scheduled for Saturday, December 17, 2016. Steve M. Chorvas Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Compiler Saugerties, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/N
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 65th annual Mohonk Lake-Ashokan Reservoir (Ulster County) Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted this past Saturday, 20 December 2014, under relatively good weather conditions. Forty-four (44) participants in ten field parties encountered 15,661 individuals of 79 species (plus two additional count week species, pending additions to the count week period). This year's effort resulted in our second-highest abundance total, just 431 individuals short of our record high 16,092 in 2008, and equaled our previous high diversity counts of 79 species in 2012 and 2007. Temperatures remained just below freezing throughout the count day, ranging from an early morning low of 27° (F) to an afternoon high of 30° (F) on the Lomontville Flats in Hurley. Winds were calm or very light over most of the count terrain, and visibility was good under cloudy skies with no precipitation. Field conditions were characterized by a complete lack of snow cover and significant areas of water open, with most sources of water devoid of ice or minimally infringed along stagnant edges. Night skies were solid overcast, precluding any moonlight. Three Cackling Geese associating with a large flock of Canada Geese on Spring Lake off Lucas Avenue in Kingston represent a new addition to the count composite and species number 146 for this count circle. Sector leader Mark DeDea noted that this large flock of Canada Geese consisted of numerous smaller Lesser/Richardson's types, and considerable time and patience was required to sort out the Cackling Geese. Five Northern Pintail (three off Clearwater Road in New Paltz, and a pair in a pond off Lapla Road in Marbletown) represent only our second count record for this species, previously recorded when two individuals were observed on a small pond in Krumville in 2012. Record-high counts were established for a remarkable twenty species, including three Iceland Gulls observed along Mohonk Road in New Paltz (our fourth overall CBC record), and three reports of individual Merlins from three distinct locations, representing our fifth CBC record. Additional high counts were recorded for Ring-necked Duck (28, eclipsing 14 in 2013), Bald Eagle (10, eclipsing 6 in 2011), Cooper's Hawk (9, eclipsing 8 in 2012 and 2011), Red-shouldered Hawk (7, eclipsing 5 in 2012), Great Horned Owl (7, eclipsing 5 in 1966), Northern Saw-whet Owl (3, eclipsing 2 in 2010), Red-bellied Woodpecker (85, eclipsing 77 in 2013), Downy Woodpecker (161, eclipsing 126 in 2009), Hairy Woodpecker (40, eclipsing 36 in 1965), Common Raven (25, eclipsing 16 in 2006), Tufted Titmouse (364, eclipsing 331 in 2006), White-breasted Nuthatch (267, significantly exceeding our previous high count of 158 in 2006), Carolina Wren (68, eclipsing 61 in 2012), Eastern Bluebird (195, eclipsing 145 in 2012 and 2006), Savannah Sparrow (14, eclipsing 9 in 1967), Northern Cardinal (257, eclipsing 245 in 2009), and American Goldfinch (335, significantly exceeding our previous high count of 266 in 1972). Pileated Woodpecker matched our previous high count of 31 from last year. Canada Geese were once again the most numerous species recorded during the count, accounting for 26% (4,086) of our total number of individuals. A flock of 250 Snow Geese were a nice addition, more often than not missed entirely on this count. Irruptive winter finches were modestly represented with a single Purple Finch, four Common Redpolls, and 41 Pine Siskins. One Eastern Towhee, one Field Sparrow, four Great Blue Herons, four Belted Kingfishers, and eight Hermit Thrushes lingered in the count circle, otherwise half-hardies were surprisingly absent during this relatively mild December. We did not detect any warblers, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, or Gray Catbirds during the count, and blackbirds also appeared scarce, with only two Red-winged Blackbirds, a single Common Grackle, and two count week Brown-headed Cowbirds detected. No record-low counts were set for any species previously encountered on this count, though our total number of Swamp Sparrows (5) was half the current ten-year average of 10.1/year and well below our record high count of 46 in 2006. Thanks to the following participants for their fine effort in conducting this annual bird survey: David Arner, Christina Baal, Joseph Ben-Eliazer, Allan Bowdery, Lynn Bowdery, Mira Bowin, Joe Bridges, Jim Clinton, Matt Corsaro, Sammy Decker, Mark DeDea, Lin Fagan, Deb Ferguson, Amy Fradon, Christine Guarino, Barbara Hart, Dave Hayes, Jon Hilowitz, Jon Johnson, Evelyn Leigh (feeder-watch), Maeve Maurer, Annie Mardiney, Arnold Meier, Joel Meier, Malcolm Meier, Travis Meier, Elizabeth Moffett, Frank Murphy, Jeff Nerp, David Nyzio, Jessica Prockup, George Rodenhausen, Susan Rogers, Tom Sarro, Peter Schoenberger, Halley Schwab, Donna Seymour, Steve Stanne, Nava Tabak, John Thompson, Wendy Tocci, Glen Van Gorden, and Kent Warner. It was particularly gratify
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 64th annual Mohonk Lake-Ashokan Reservoir (Ulster County) Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted this past Saturday, 14 December 2013, under very challenging winter weather conditions. Despite an abbreviated count day for some territories, and an overall lack of access to some secondary roads, 31 participants in nine field parties managed to survey a significant portion of all sectors, recording a very respectable 72 species and 14,033 individuals (plus two additional count week species, pending additions to the count week period). Our first major snowstorm of the season materialized overnight and continued to produce light snowfall throughout the count day. Temperatures remained below freezing, ranging from an early morning low of 8° (F) to a high of 18° (F) by mid-day on the Lomontville Flats in Hurley. Winds were thankfully calm over most of the count terrain, but visibility was less than ideal under dark foreboding skies with a persistent snowfall. Night skies were solid overcast, precluding any moonlight. Snow continued to accumulate throughout the day, amounting to an average of four to six inches of ground cover by day's end. Major bodies of water and fast moving creeks and streams were predominantly open, with smaller ponds and stagnant marshes completely frozen or partially open, providing some small areas of liquid water. Considering the challenging weather conditions and abbreviated count routines for some sectors, species diversity (72) was very good, above our ten-year average of 70 species/year, and only the sixth time in 64 years that we have exceeded 70 species in this count circle. Total individuals (14,033) were also exceptional, representing our most prolific count since our record-setting 16,092 in 2008, and just 129 species shy of our second highest count of 14,162 in 2007. It should be noted however, our tally was greatly influenced this year by large flocks of Canada Geese moving throughout the count day, accounting for nearly 5,000 individuals and 35% of our total number. No new species were added to the historical count composite this year, but we did not lack for highlights. Best birds of the day were a Dickcissel visiting bird feeders in New Paltz (our fourth overall record, and first since 1966), and a juvenile Iceland Gull associating with a few hundred Herring Gulls at the Mohonk Preserve composting site in New Paltz (third overall record, first since 1995). Two American Pipits foraging on compost mounds off Fording Place in Hurley represent our sixth historical record; two Red-headed Woodpeckers, apparently wintering on territory in the Weston Road marsh on the Esopus/New Paltz town line, were our ninth record for this count; two separate White-crowned Sparrows represent our ninth historical record; and a lingering Gray Catbird along the Hurley Avenue section of the rail trail in Kingston is our 12th count record for this half-hardy species. Fourteen Ring-necked Ducks tied our previous high count from 1974, and represents only our 8th historical record. New high counts were recorded for Snow Goose (870, more than double last year's high count of 425), Red-bellied Woodpecker (77, eclipsing 75 in 2011), Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (16, eclipsing 14 in 2011), Hermit Thrush (12, far exceeding our previous high count of 4 in 2009), and Dark-eyed Junco (1,722, significantly eclipsing 1,558 recorded in 2009). One Ruby-crowned Kinglet, 645 American Robins, 312 Cedar Waxwings, 7 Yellow-rumped Warblers, 2 Field Sparrows, 1 Savannah Sparrow, and 17 Swamp Sparrows are also noteworthy for this count. Irruptive winter finches were essentially absent, with only one count week Purple Finch noted. Blackbirds were very modestly represented in single-digit numbers of Red-wings, grackles, and cowbirds. Waterfowl diversity was average and typical for this count, with the exception of the aforementioned Ring-necked Ducks and large numbers of Snow and Canada Geese on the move. Perhaps our most surprising negative was the total lack of Turkey and Black Vultures in historical winter roost areas, though the inclement weather may have very well factored in keeping these soaring birds down and out of sight. Only one Wild Turkey was encountered, one Belted Kingfisher was active, and four Great Blue Herons were recorded. Thanks to the following participants for conducting their assigned routes under adverse conditions, and also to those who attempted to make it out into the field but were not able to do so: David Arner, Christina Baal, Allan Bowdery, Lynn Bowdery, Mira Bowin, Joe Bridges, Bea Conover, Matt Corsaro, Mark DeDea, Lin Fagan, Deb Ferguson, Tom Grady, Christine Guarino, Annie Mardiney, Jim Marks, Frank Murphy, Jeff Nerp, David Nyzio, Jessica Prockup, Doug Robinson, George Rodenhausen, Susan Rogers, Peter Schoenberger, Halley Schwab, Donna Seymour, Steve Stanne, Nava Tabak, John Thompson,
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake-Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
The 63rd annual Mohonk Lake-Ashokan Reservoir (Ulster County) Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) was conducted yesterday, Saturday, 15 December. A total of 10,461 individuals of 78 species (plus one additional count week species) were recorded by ten field parties under very pleasant weather and field conditions. Temperatures were relatively mild for this mid-December census, ranging from an overnight low of 24 degrees (F) to an afternoon high of 43 degrees (F) on the Lomontville Flats in Hurley. Winds were calm throughout the count period. Night skies were clear but dark due to moon phase, followed by mostly sunny skies early morning with an increase in clouds mid-day. No snow cover was recorded within the count area. Major bodies of water and fast moving creeks and streams were predominantly open, with smaller ponds and stagnant marshes frozen to various degrees, ranging from entirely frozen to partially open, providing small pockets or larger areas of open water. Diversity was very good, falling just one species short of our all-time high of 79 species in 2007, exceeding last year's total of 74 species, and well above the most recent 10-year average of 67 species. Total number of individuals was well below our maximum of 16,092 recorded in 2008, but otherwise consistent with recent years and only 325 individuals short of last year's tally. Highlights this year were dominated by waterfowl and raptors, including the addition of a new species to the 63-year composite. Two lingering Northern Pintail represent a first record and advanced the historical total to 144 species. Four Green-winged Teal were only the second time this species has been detected during this count. Three American Wigeon represent our third historical record, one Wood Duck represented a fourth record for the count, and one Gadwall and a count week Lesser Scaup were both encountered for only the fifth time in the history of this CBC. A lone Long-eared Owl and one Northern Saw-whet Owl were detected for only the fourth time, and a Peregrine Falcon was observed for only the second historical CBC record. One Fish Crow was an uncommonly good find and only our fourth record, equaling our previous high count of 1 in 2002. Two American Pipits were observed for a fifth overall record, and one Red-headed Woodpecker was a good winter find. New high counts were set for several species, including 425 Snow Geese (eclipsing 286 in 2008), 5 Red-shouldered Hawks (eclipsing 4 in 2010), 9 Belted Kingfishers (eclipsing 8 in 2006), 8 Winter Wrens (exceeding last year's record 6), 61 Carolina Wrens (eclipsing 53 in 2010), and 180 Song Sparrows (eclipsing last year's record 123). Great Blue Herons equaled our previous high count of 11 in 1998, 8 Cooper's Hawks tied last year's record high, and 145 Eastern Bluebirds tied our previous high count from 2006. The much anticipated and publicized winter finch irruption was not significantly realized in the count circle results. No Pine Grosbeaks, Purple Finches, Pine Siskins, or Evening Grosbeaks were detected. A small number of Red Crossbills were recorded in two sections (3 and 4 individuals, representing our fourth historical record), and one field party encountered two White-winged Crossbills, representing our fifth overall record. A total of 15 Common Redpolls were scattered throughout three sections (in numbers of 3, 5, and 7 individuals). A surprisingly few 15 Red-winged Blackbirds were the only representation of the blackbird family, and 19 American Robins seemed a disappointingly low number during a regionally mild December. One unidentified warbler will apparently remain a mystery. Thanks to all of the following participants for their time and effort: David Arner, Alan Beebe, Allan Bowdery, Lynn Bowdery, Mira Bowin, Paul Comstock, Bea Conover, Matt Corsaro, Eileen Cunningham, Mark DeDea, Lin Fagan, Deb Ferguson, Christine Guarino, Annie Mardiney, Jim Marks, Maeve Mower, Frank Murphy, Jeff Nerp, David Nyzio, Dan Porter, Jessica Prockup, Bob Rifenburg, Evelyn Rifenburg, Bruce Robertson, Corbin Robinson, Doug Robinson, Susan Rogers, Tom Sarro, Peter Schoenberger, Donna Seymour, Alan Spivack, John Thompson, Glen Van Gorden, and Lisa Weinstein. And once again this year, a very special thanks to Mark DeDea and Kyla Haber for providing the facilities, hot food, and beverages for our very enjoyable post-count compilation at Hasbrouck Park in Kingston. Steve M. Chorvas Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir CBC Compiler Saugerties, NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your ob
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake-Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
111th Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC) Mohonk Lake / Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) - December 18, 2010 Twenty-seven observers in ten field parties recorded 11,840 individuals of 72 species (plus one additional count week species) during our 61st annual survey of this Ulster County CBC circle centered at the Ulster County Community College in Stone Ridge. This year's count represents only the third time we have recorded 70 or more species (record-high of 79 species in 2007), and our third highest total number of individuals (previously 16,092 in 2008 and 14,162 in 2007). Species diversity was well above the recent ten-year average of 64.3 species, and we exceeded last year's (2009) count by one species and 209 individuals. Weather conditions this year were quite favorable for conducting the count, if not for concentrating birds in limited areas. Temperatures were typically cold and near average, ranging from an early morning low of 15° (F) in the southwest sector to an afternoon high of 38° (F) at Ashokan Reservoir. No precipitation was recorded during the count, with mostly sunny skies and little or no wind. The higher elevations of Mohonk Lake experienced light winds and recorded trace amounts of snow cover, while the rest of the count area was generally devoid of any snow. Smaller ponds and slow moving bodies of water were largely frozen. Fast moving streams, Esopus Creek, and the lower basin of Ashokan Reservoir were entirely open, and approximately one third of Stone Ridge Pond on Mill Dam Road retained open water. Highlights include three species previously recorded only once during this count's 61-year history. A very late Broad-winged Hawk was observed by Tom Sarro perched in a tree on the edge of a horse paddock on Klienekill Farm in the Mohonk Lake sector; two Northern Saw-whet Owls responded to Peter Schoenberger's vocal imitation on Sundale Road in Accord; and a total of eight Wood Ducks in two groups were encountered in two sectors, eclipsing our first record of 3 recorded in 2005. Two additional species were encountered for only the third time; two Merlins (previously 1 in 1988 and 1 in 2008) and a late Killdeer (3 in 1973 and 1 in 1991). Six Ring-necked Ducks, last recorded 19 years ago and on four previous occasions (1/1991, 14/1987, 2/1975, 14/1974, 4/1966) were an unusual find for this count circle. Additional noteworthy records include new high counts of 767 Mallards (eclipsing 715 in 2008), 5 Bald Eagles (eclipsing 4 in 2009 and 2007), 7 Cooper's Hawks (surpassing last year's record 6), 4 Red-shouldered Hawks (eclipsing 2 in 2008), 80 Red-tailed Hawks (surpassing last year's record 65), 7 Barred Owls (eclipsing 4 in 2006), 9 Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers (eclipsing 8 in 2008), 53 Carolina Wrens (eclipsing 47 in 2006), and 98 Song Sparrows (eclipsing 95 in 2007). Two White-crowned Sparrows represent our 7th count record, and two Ruby-crowned Kinglets, three Field Sparrows, one Fox Sparrow, and three American Kestrels were nice half-hardy additions to the compilation. Red-tailed Hawk, Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Northern Mockingbird, European Starling, White-throated Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and Northern Cardinal were encountered by all of the ten field parties. Ring-necked Duck, Common Goldeneye, Horned Grebe, Broad-winged Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Killdeer, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Hermit Thrush, Fox Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Snow Bunting, and Common Grackle were recorded by only one field party. Stone Ridge Pond continues to attract and account for significant numbers of Canada Geese, Mallards, and a few Mute Swans, but lacked additional waterfowl diversity this year, and the overall population density continues to decline from the high counts of 2,000+ individuals of recent past years. Several large flocks of Canada Geese were observed in flight over the Lomontville Flats, heading in no consistent direction or with any apparent objective, and the compost mounds off Fording Place continue to attract large numbers of Ring-billed Gulls along with a few Herring Gulls. Canada Geese and American Crows once again accounted for a large percentage of the total number of individuals (38%). Three typically abundant species were notable for their relative scarcity. Downy Woodpecker completely evaded detection in one large sector, White-throated Sparrows (200) were below average and fewer than half of the 403 detected last year, and Dark-eyed Juncos were well below recent averages and down 60% compared to 2009 (631 vs.1,558). No winter finches (Purple Finches, Siskins, Redpolls, Grosbeaks, or Crossbills) and no Yellow-rumped Warblers were encountered by any of the field parties, and blackbirds were limited to just one lone Common Grackle! For the fourth consecutive year, relatively few vultures (12
[nysbirds-l] Mohonk Lake-Ashokan Reservoir CBC Results
Mohonk Lake/Ashokan Reservoir (NYML) Christmas Bird Count December 19, 2009 Thirty-six observers in eleven field parties recorded 11,598 individuals of 71 species, plus an additional four count week (cw) species, during our 60th annual survey of this Ulster County CBC circle centered at the Ulster County Community College in Stone Ridge. Counts conducted during this most recent decade have typically recorded 64-69 species. This year's count was only the second count in our 60-year history that recorded 70 or more species (record-high of 79 species in 2007), and represents our third highest total number of individuals (previously 16,092 in 2008 and 14,162 in 2007). Temperatures were typically cold and slightly below average, ranging from an early morning low of 15° (F) at Mohonk Lake to an afternoon high of 24° (F) at Ashokan Reservoir. No precipitation was recorded during the count despite dark gray skies and solid cloud cover throughout the day. Winds were generally calm to light at 0-5 mph with occasional strong gusts at the higher elevations of Mohonk Lake. Snow cover was 100% with a hard icy crust, averaging 3"-4" in depth. Smaller ponds and slow moving bodies of water were completely frozen. Fast moving streams, Esopus Creek, Williams Lake, Ashokan Reservoir, and approximately half of Stone Ridge Pond on Mill Dam Road retained open water. Highlights include our first CBC record of a Peregrine Falcon, observed by Peter Schoenberger, Matt Corsaro, and Mira Bowin on Whitelands Rd. in Kripplebush; our first count day record of Red-breasted Merganser (previously recorded as a count week species in 1984), observed by Ev and Bob Rifenburg along the near side of Williams Lake in the Town of Rosendale; four American Wigeon (only our second count record, and a new high count eclipsing our first record of 3 in 2007), observed by Jackie Bogardus and I on Stone Ridge Pond; and our fourth count record of two American Pipits, also observed by Jackie and I, feeding on and around the base of a compost pile on Fording Place Road out on the Lomontville flats. Additional noteworthy records include 4 Bald Eagles (equals our high count in 2007), 8 Sharp-shinned Hawks (new high count, eclipsing 6 in 2007), 6 Cooper's Hawk (new high count, eclipsing 4 in 2007), 1 Red-shouldered Hawk, 64 Red-tailed Hawks (new high count, eclipsing 55 in 2006), 8 Eastern Screech-Owls (new high count, eclipsing 7 in 2007), 125 Downy Woodpeckers (new high count, eclipsing 108 in 1988), 20 Brown Creepers (new high count, eclipsing 18 in 1965), 75 Golden-crowned Kinglets (new high count, eclipsing 44 in 1987), 4 Hermit Thrushes (equals our high count in 2008), 1 White-crowned Sparrow (only our 6th count record), 1,558 Dark-eyed Juncos (new high count, eclipsing 1,252 in 2007), and 245 Northern Cardinals (new high count, eclipsing 211 in 2008). Stone Ridge Pond continues to attract and account for significant numbers of Canada Geese, Mallards, and Ring-billed Gulls; a few Mute Swans, American Black Ducks, and American Wigeon; however, overall population density was considerably less this year at 672 individuals in comparison to the 2,000+ of recent years. Four species accounted for 52% (6,065) of all individuals recorded on this year's count: Canada Goose (2,151), Dark-eyed Junco (1,558), European Starling (1,328), and American Crow (1,028). With the exception of just one Purple Finch, no winter finches (Crossbills, Redpolls, Siskins, or Grosbeaks) were encountered by any of the field parties, and blackbirds were limited to only a few count week individuals. For the third consecutive year, relatively few vultures (12) were observed in the vicinity of their former roost in New Paltz that produced record-high counts of 108 Turkey and 41 Blacks in 2006. No Common Loons were observed in the lower basin of Ashokan Reservoir. In recognition of our 60th anniversary, I thought it of some interest to look back and compare the winter population trends of two non-migratory Game species as reflected in this count's historical data. Ruffed Grouse were recorded in each of the first 40 years of this count (1950-1989) but were absent the past six years and 13 out of the last 16 years. In contrast, Wild Turkeys were only recorded once in the first 34 years (1950-1983) of this count but have now been encountered 15 out of the last 17 years with double-digit numbers in all but one year and a high count of 91 in 2004. Finally, Great Blue Herons were not recorded on this count for the first 34 years (1950-1983) but have now been encountered 18 out of the last 19 years, typically as one or two individuals, with a high count of 11 in the mild winter of 1998. Below is the complete list of species with total number of individuals (asterisks indicate unusual species for this count circle, "cw" indicates a count-week only species). I sincerely wish to thank all of the follo
