May 2nd, 2013

Sean and I have been watching carefully and keeping our ears to the sky over the past four months to see who can detect the greatest number of bird species on our respective work properties. We thought we would provide an update before the influx of species that are about to return from their wintering grounds in the south.

Things are very close again this year. Sean has detected 63 species, including American Woodcock two evenings ago – which are always a highlight to watch and hear their display, as Peters earlier post can attest to – but also Eastern Towhee, and a random Rock Pigeon (as Sean puts it) that he did not get last year. I have detected 72, including Northern Shrike, an early Broad-winged Hawk, and finally the Common Grackle today. Also today were Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Black-and-white Warbler, and Blue-headed Vireo.

After May 1st, 2012 I had found 70 species, but although it was a very early spring last year, and 25C on March Break, the last 10 species this year have arrived within a day of their arrival date last year.

With the south winds aiding their northern movement, we are certain to see the waves of warblers returning. On a good day at Point Pelee you can expect to see 25-30 species, but I only had 17 last year. I hope to better that this year.

In addition to 10 early warbler species, the next day or two we should hear and see the return of Great-crested Flycatcher, Indigo Bunting, Baltimore Oriole, Eastern Kingbird, and Gray Catbird.

Do up your chinstrap if you are a bird watcher! The May migration has begun!