Although final data is not yet in for the 2004 Hamilton Christmas Bird Count, held on Boxing Day, it is clear that Hamilton Area Birders have again combined to produce a record one-day total of species for the CBC count day. As of today at least 102 species were seen on Dec. 26. An additional four (4) species were seen on Dec. 23-25 or Dec. 27-29, but not on Boxing Day. More than 100 birders took part in the CBC, either in the field or at feeders.
Among unusual CBC species reported to date are Snow Goose, King Eider, Gray Catbird, American Pipit and Pine Warbler. Record numbers of Double-crested Cormorant, Trumpeter Swan, White-winged Scoter, Hooded Merganser, Wild Turkey, Iceland Gull, Eastern Screech Owl and Common Raven were counted on Boxing Day. The overall number of approximately 59,000 individual birds was above the 50-year average but well down from the 10-year average and far below the very high numbers seen in 2002. The lower numbers appear to be accounted for mostly by a significant decline in the European Starling population and considerably fewer ducks seen on Lake Ontario, probably due to the 20+km winds and high waves on Dec. 26. Driving snow that started around noon on count day also did not help. On the plus side, the ice-covered snow and low temperatures which marked the week before the count seemed to concentrate birds in locations where experienced counters knew to find them. A final report will be prepared when all results are received. On behalf of the Hamilton Naturalists' Club, a sincere Thank You to all 2004 Christmas Bird Count participants. Mike Mike Street Ancaster, Ontario, Canada [EMAIL PROTECTED]
