Watching for the birds of winter
Deborah Powell
With notes from Mo Laidlaw
Published January 15, 2025.
OTTAWA VALLEY: This season’s local Christmas Bird Counts (CBCs) were relatively quiet, with fewer species and overall numbers observed.
The counts began on December 14 with Allumette Island-Pembroke. Local birder Vince Agnesi expressed disappointment over the absence of northern birds such as siskins, crossbills, and redpolls. “It made for a long afternoon, and we did not find anything special,” he said. “But all in all, the CBCs are always a fun way to spend a winter day with a friend. I always look forward to them.” Agnesi also participated in two other local counts.
The Quyon-Shawville count on December 19 yielded 34 species, just one below average. Highlights included Cooper’s Hawk, Barred Owl, Red-winged Blackbirds, White-throated Sparrow, Evening Grosbeaks, and American Robins. Ten field observers and seven feeder watchers tallied 2,379 birds.
On December 20, 11 observers recorded 31 species during the Calumet Island and Area count, now in its 23rd year. Notable finds included Evening Grosbeak, Barred Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Bohemian Waxwing, Horned Lark, and two lingering Canada Geese. The total count reached 1,837 birds.
Fort-Coulonge hosted its CBC on January 3. Snow Buntings were most numerous, with over 600 observed. Nine birders recorded 27 species and 1,890 birds. This count, the newest in the region, began in 2016.
The Breckenridge-Dunrobin count, held January 4, faced cold, windy weather. Bird numbers dropped to 1,772, with 28 species, down from 35 in previous years. Winter finches were absent, but 720 Snow Buntings were seen, the highest number of any species. Rare finds included Ruffed Grouse, Carolina Wren, Winter Wren, House Sparrow, House Finch, White-throated Sparrow, and Song Sparrow. Twenty-two American Robins were also noted. Eight birders in the field and nine feeder watchers contributed.
For those eager to join the next citizen science initiative, the Great Backyard Bird Count runs from February 14 to 17.
Photo – Northern Cardinal are easy to spot, although the female is not as brightly coloured. Their numbers have been increasing in the Pontiac over the years. (DP)