Birders see 65 species in annual winter count

The 24th annual Conanicut Island Christmas Bird Count was held Saturday, Dec. 30.

Sixty-five species were recorded, an average for Christmas Bird Counts. Overall counts were down, most likely due to the unseasonably warm weather. There were no surprises, but an unusually plumed Green-winged Teal, probably a first-year bird, was seen on the north end of the island. A record number of 54 Harlequin ducks were seen at Beavertail, and the overall species number was 453 Canada Geese.

The spirits of the participants were, however, elevated because of the mild temperatures, and all had enjoyable day. Participants included, Evelyn Rhodes, Ed Long, Dick Boenning, Candy and Chris Powell, Mark and Collette Baker, Wayne Munns, Sarah Young, Steve Moreau, Marcie Lindsay, B.J. Whitehouse, and Sonja Kassal.

Those reporting from home included Gail Chase, Chris Ariel, Karan Osenton, and Leah George. To receive a complete list of birds seen or for more information on future bird counts, contact Candy Powell, 423-1492, or Evelyn Rhodes, 423-1254.