2001 Thunder Bay District
Birding Highlights
In 2001 a total of 244 species were reported from Thunder Bay District by members and friends of the Thunder Bay Field Naturalists. This is right on the average at 244 species over the past 16 years. Over this time period the total number of species has varied from a low of 232 in 1986, to a high of 254 in 1995. Two new species were added to the checklist in 2001, bringing the total to 242 species (this total includes four extinct/extirpated species).A. Regular Species
Of the 228 species that are considered to be regularly occurring in Thunder Bay District, 222 were reported in 2001. The six species not seen were Hudsonian Godwit, Wilson's Phalarope, Red-headed Woodpecker, Western Kingbird, Sedge Wren and Varied Thrush. Red-headed Woodpecker hasn't been reported since 1995.B. Rare Species
In 2001, there were 22 rare species reported, the same number as last year. Many of these were identified at the Thunder Cape Bird Observatory. The additions to the checklist in 2001 were Virginia's Warble and Pomarine Jaeger, both of which were at Thunder Cape. The Virginia's Warbler was seen and subsequently caught, banded and photographed on August 29, and the Pomarine Jaeger was seen Oct. 29. Reports of both have been submitted to the Ontario Bird Records Committee. The Trumpeter Swan reported in last year's annual report turned out to be a Tundra Swan according to the two swan experts who reviewed the photos, so that species has not been added to the District list. The Ontario Bird Records Committee eventually Geoff Gooding's 1999 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, which is included in the 342 species.Respectfully submitted,
Nick Escott
