With a weakening El Nino weather pattern, the early warmth that roared in are looking to wimper out the door as the month closes out. A cold pattern has been set in since the ides, allowing for fewer birds to move on the north winds. In fact, we’ve not had a 10,000+ bird day the entire second half of March.
Despite this, new species continue to be seen for the year. We’re now over 100 species for the season. Waterfowl continue to move through with good diversity off-shore. Red-throated Loons have dominated the larger divers, with 77 thus far this month, compared to only 8 Common Loons. Other ducks have included both teal, shovelers, scaup, and all three scoter species.
For specific count days, check out duck diversity on Fri, March 22 and again on Sun, March 24. The latter saw a late push of the remaining Sandhill Cranes, putting us over 50,000 birds for the season.
Monday, March 26 saw the largest diversity of the season, with 70 species recorded. Several season firsts appeared, including Caspian Tern, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and 2 Smith’s Longspurs. Smith’s Longspurs are always a treat at the tower, as their ID can be tricky in the windy conditions, and brief viewing you get. (Expert Tip: House Sparrows in flight can also show white shoulders!)
It should remain mild or cold through the weekend, but the weather looks to warm up again by mid-next week.
Indiana Dunes Migration Birding 