It will be hard for the 57th annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count to top record-breaking 2023, but on Sunday, Dec. 15, Williams Lake birders will try.
Last year, Williams Lake Lake Field Naturalists had a record number of species and a record number of counters in the field. The weather was mild (above freezing) and Williams Lake was ice-free
The previous year, the lake had frozen over on December 1, but in 2023, it was still wide open when the bird count took place.
Last year's 69 species recorded by the 45 counters in the field and 17 feeder watchers was seven higher than the previous best set in 2008. Open water on the lake lead to a significant increase in the water birds usually seen in winter and accounted for two new birds on the count; a double-crested cormorant and a canvasback.
If you live within the count area, have a bird feeder and would like to contribute to the count, please call Phil at 250 392 0609 after 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 15 or email ranson1@telus.net. The count area is within a 12 km radius of downtown Williams Lake.
Phil Ranson is a long time birder and member of the Williams Lake Field Naturalists
