In contrast to two other local counts sponsored by MVFN (on December 27 and 30), the Rideau Ferry Christmas Bird Count was held in relatively good weather on December 16, 2017 and a record number of 58 species were counted! The Rideau Ferry count was one of three Audubon Christmas Bird Counts sponsored by MVFN within the local area (others counts 2017 Carleton Place Christmas Bird Count and the 2017 Lanark Highlands Christmas Bird Count).
Alison Bentley: “It was a record count with 58 species, which all goes to prove that the compiler (yours truly) should go away more often and miss the actual day of the count! Weather was nice, and we had some really good experienced birders join up, so the combination of the two led to great sightings. This photo by Howard and Mary Robinson kind of sums it all up – snow, some open water and a Mallard just hanging out. Also one of the Gray Catbird which, along with Northern Pintail and Double-crested Cormorant was new for the count, and of course an excellent winter sighting. Thanks to the Route 3 team of Mark Gawn and Marc Bosc for these observations. Unfortunately, the catbird was visibly shivering, and its survival seemed unlikely.”
The chart below the photos, summarizes results of the 4396 birds counted and was prepared by count compiler Alison Bentley. Or click here for a pdf of these 2017 Rideau Ferry Christmas Bird Count results.
