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Bird Watching in December
This is probably the best time to observe rare
waterbirds
locally. The bitter northwest winds often force large
flocks of Canada Geese southward. With these flocks, a few
Snow Geese and occasional Ross’s Goose can be found. Along
Lake Erie, Brant are highly sought after, and are
infrequently seen by a lucky few.
As the month progresses, numerous waterfowl gather on
ponds and marshes for their last feedings before
freeze-out. While the vast majority of handsome Wood Ducks
have departed by December, inland lakes and reservoirs
have numerous Hooded Mergansers to add sparkle. Loons and
grebes also follow these northwest winds. Early December
is a good time to look for the rare Red-throated Loon
along with Eared and Red-necked Grebes.
Rural areas east of Middlefield or south of Grafton can
provide excellent raptor watching throughout the winter.
While looking for Rough-legged Hawks and Northern
Harriers, don’t be surprised if you see flocks of hundreds
of Horned Larks and Snow Buntings. These flocks usually
have a few Lapland Longspurs to add a dash of excitement.
Large gulls usually replace the numerous Bonaparte’s Gulls
 by
the last third of the month. Indeed, the region is renown
for excellent gull watching. It is possible to see 10 or
more gull species in a single December day along the
lakefront. The sheer numbers of Ring-billed, Herring and
Great Black-backed Gulls defy counting.
Most landbirds are now safely in their winter homes.
Eastern Bluebirds have gathered and now flock to the
multiflora rose and sumac-laden areas of successional
habitats. An
occasional Hermit Thrush will bring a bit of winter cheer
to the hiker. Roosts of American Robins are sometimes
found that measure well into the thousands. Blackbirds
have historically lingered in large numbers in the
southern reaches of the region. Christmas counts in the
region usually range from 60 to 85 species.
Be sure to check the Cleveland Rare Bird Alert for updates
at 216 556-0700 or join one of many Christmas Bird Counts
scheduled this month.
Snow Goose
and Great Black-backed Gull Photo by Delores Cole
Eastern Bluebird Photo by Bill Toneff |