Christmas Bird Count: Poulsbo Waterfront

“I knew it was going to be a good day for the Christmas Bird Count when I pulled into the Liberty Bay Auto parking lot and immediately looked up to see my first bird of the day: a Bald Eagle, being energetically chased by a couple of unruly gulls.” - Kevin Eyer. The scene set the tone perfectly, and the day only improved when great company came together shortly after.

Poulsbo Waterfront Christmas Bird Count team gathered under the pavilion - Group Photo

Around 8:30 a.m., one of this year’s Kitsap Audubon Christmas Bird Count teams gathered at the Poulsbo Waterfront Gazebo. The group represented a wide range of birding experience levels, united by a shared enthusiasm and a willingness to brave the icy wind sweeping across the water to get the most accurate count possible. The team included Colin Tierney, whose waterfowl expertise proved invaluable, his stalwart son Ronan, who made sure not a single Bufflehead slipped by unnoticed, and North Kitsap High School students Sam Corry and Ali Johnson. Despite having every reason to sleep in on their first day off from school, Sam and Ali arrived early and contributed meaningfully throughout the morning.

The waterfront delivered some excellent highlights. Ten Black Turnstones were spotted running along the docks, flocks of scoters—including both White-winged and Surf Scoters—moved across the bay, and a Cooper’s Hawk made a dramatic appearance, flying directly in front of the group just as they returned to their cars. Moments like these are what make the Christmas Bird Count such a rewarding experience.

A fitting end to a memorable morning of community, learning, and birds. Merry Christmas and happy birding!

Colin Tierney diligently scanning the environment for each and every sighting with a beautiful rainbow in the background.