On Saturday May 7, 2016, nineteen enthusiastic birders including some families, joined together to conduct the annual CIMAS sponsored Spring Migration Bird Count. On this day participants toured different spots on Cortes Island, listening for bird song and observing bird activity. This count differs from the Christmas Bird Count in that only species are counted – not individual birds. Over the course of the day the group observed 70 different bird species. Highlights of the day include observing a group of Pacific Loons fishing near Plunger Pass. A MacGillivray’s Warbler sang in its usual spot on Seascape Road, and the first pi-tic of a Western Tanager was also heard that day. Both a Western and Semi-palmated Sandpiper were observed feeding at low tide. A Greater White-fronted Goose was observed in a back yard on Rexford Road.
Mark your calendars, this year the Christmas Bird Count is scheduled for Saturday, December 17th, 2016.
Click here for the current Spring Count list: Field List Spring 2012-2016.
