With recent warm temperatures, the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count on Dec. 27 could turn up some unexpected species. “We’re seeing more oddballs,” said Pam Randles of the Takshanuk Watershed Council. “Birds we wouldn’t expect at this time of year.”
Since a local count started 17 years ago, species like hummingbirds and surf scoters have migrated later in the season. Some migrants haven’t even gone south. This year, Randles is especially interested in the Eurasian collared dove, an exotic that appeared here six years ago and has started to overwinter.
Falconer and seasoned birder Mario Benassi said he’s seen 35 collared doves in a single flock and last month saw a mourning dove, a species he says “isn’t supposed to be here at all.”
When the Audubon Society established the first count in 1900, there were only 25 locations nationally. Nationally, more than 63,000 participants now record data at 2,200 locations between the Arctic Ocean and Tierra del Fuego. Two locations are in Haines – one centered around town and one near Mosquito Lake and Porcupine. The Audubon Society uses observations to measure changes in winter range and migration patterns.
The council’s list of birds spotted here includes species like the hoary redpoll and Kittlitz’s murrelet, but the count isn’t just for experienced birders who can spot rare visitors. Of 230 year-round species, only about 40 are commonly observed here in winter. “We try to team up amateurs with people who know what they’re doing,” Randles said. “There are quite a few loyal counters to help with identification.”
Benassi has spotted reclusive birds including a northern shrike and hawk owl. “Once in a great while you’ll see a goshawk.” If the weather gets cold enough, alpine birds like gyrfalcons and golden eagles might come down from the pass, he said.
About 20 people helped make the count last year, a drop in participation attributed to foul weather. While many participants walk, bike, ski, or drive their area, watching out your living room window can be just as effective, Randles said. “I’d like to encourage people with bird feeders to spend a few hours observing on the 27th. You don’t need to go out in the weather to contribute.”
Birds can visit several feeders every day and can be counted twice.
To prevent overlap, participants should choose a survey zone and get a record sheet before Dec. 27. To sign up, visit Alaska Backcountry Outfitters, call Pam Randles at 766-3664, or Katie Craney at 907-612-0849. Species checklists and zones can be found at http://www.takshanuk.org/cbc.