01/08/2008: "SJC Audubon’s 108th Christmas Bird Count Summary"

By Barbara Jensen

This year’s count was another great year even with wind and rain. Most groups reported that they saw fewer birds with the poor weather but this was the highest species count on record with 111 different species of birds seen in the 15-mile diameter circle.

There was a downward trend in most species and could be attributed to poor weather conditions. This year saw the highest number of participants, 72, with 23 people new to the count.

Two new areas were included, Brown and Canoe Islands! Audubon would like to especially thank private land owners who allowed us to go on their land for the first time. It was the highlight of the count for me.

Below are some of the numbers of interest.

Number of Participants 72
Brown----- 2
Canoe----- 1
Crane----- 2
Lopez-----14
Orcas-----11
San Juan--36
Shaw --- 6

Observers:
In field----65 with 26 parties
At Feeder--7

On Foot 64 Hrs – 45.25 Miles
By Car----------55 Hrs – 239 Miles
By Boat 1.5 Hrs – 3 Miles
At Feeders------25.5 Hrs

Total Hours –--- 120.5
Total Distance – 287.25 miles

37 degrees/49degrees

Species Total – 111
Total Individuals - 16609

Unusual species
Greater White-fronted Goose-- 1
Blue-wing Teal---------------- 1
Barred Owl-------------- 1
Anna’s Hummingbird------ 8
Hutton’s Vireo----------- 1

Species of Interest to San Juan County
Trumpeter Swan (symbol of SJI Audubon)--57

Species of Concern in Washington State Current through October 23, 2007

COMMON LOON------------ 42
WESTERN Grebe------------33
BRANDT'S CORMORANT------36
GOLDEN EAGLE-------------- 3
BALD EAGLE-----------------85
MERLIN--------------------- 0
PEREGRINE FALCON---------- 1
COMMON MURRE------------- 6
MARBLED MURRELET---------- 10
PILEATED WOODPECKER------13

(Barbara Jensen is the Christmas Bird Count Coordinator)