BC Coastal Waterbird Survey

On a beautiful, sunny winter Feb. 13, members of the Nanoose Naturalists participated in the BC Coastal Waterbird Survey in the designated area from the French Creek to Eaglecrest. This survey, in its sixth year, records waterbirds up and down Georgia Strait.

Although strictly not a waterbird, the highlight of the day was the rare Rock Wren (picture below) The group knew that it was a type of wren, and after a long look at the bird as it cooperatively hopped about some beach logs, we concluded that it had to be a Rock Wren. Sibley's guide points out that "it bounces as if doing deep knee bends," an obvious characteristic that all the group noted.

Thirty-two species were recorded for the day and the other highlights included large numbers of Dunlin (286), Black Turnstones (191) and Black-belied Plovers (90). We also had good views of the Long-tailed Ducks, loons and the three Scoter species. A large flock of Harlequin Ducks was spotted, which is unusual as they are usually seen only in small groups. American Wigeon was the most common duck and the Mew Gull was the most common gull.