This was the first time this survey was conducted in Seminole County.
Preliminary data are presented in the table. 3,563 birds were observed of 86
species. 13 counters participated, making up 7 parties and covering a total
of 12 miles on foot, 193 miles by car and 9 miles by boat, in addition to
time spent at feeders.
Some of the most interesting findings are noted in brown
on the attached list. Shirley and Launa found a remarkable 6
ruby-throated hummingbirds. Sandhill crane numbers were high at 42, over
half of these being found by Darrell. Al and Margaret found our only
scrub-jays and one bluebird, among other species. Deborah and David had
nesting summer tanagers, and our only catbirds. Danielle did good work in
the Lake Harney area, and we hope she’ll be joining us again in future
surveys.
No doubt you will note that migrants were scarce. The only obvious
migrants were the yellowlegs, sandpipers, bobolinks and possibly some of the
hummingbirds and swallows. This reflects the rather late date (for Florida)
of the survey. However, this survey is performed on the same date
nationwide, so compromise is necessary. Rest assured that your data will be
a valuable aid to future bird population studies. For previous Florida
counts go to www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fos.
Remember the fall count will be September 15th. I hope you’ll
be able to participate then too. This is truly "birding with a
purpose". Doing what we enjoy, and collecting information which can aid
in future conservation efforts. Many thanks to all of you.
If you did not participate in May, but would like to do so in
September, please contact Roger Grimshaw rgrim24311@aol.com
or through Seminole Audubon Society, PO Box 2977, Sanford, FL 32771-2977,
USA.
