This morning, a friend and I participated in the annual Christmas Brd Count, conducted by the Columbia Audubon Society. We were assigned an area that stretches across the lower watershed of Bonne Femme Creek, south of the city; forested valleys and ridgetop farmlands characterize the region.
During our 4.5 hour, 32 mile excursion, we encountered 28 species. Red-winged blackbirds were, by far, most abundant; their massive flocks totaled more than 6000 individuals. Other large populations included blue jays, American robins and dark-eyed juncos; among the highlights were 15 red-tailed hawks, a few red-shouldered hawks, a pileated woodpecker and a pair of field sparrows. Noticeably absent were mourning doves.
It was a cool, beautiful morning and the pastoral landscape was especially pleasing. The opportunity to contribute data to the Audubon Society, so valuable in assessing the health of regional bird populations, was, of course, most rewarding. Happy Holidays and joyous birding!
