Sunbeams & Seabirds: Wrapping Up the Puget Sound Seabird Survey Season
As the calendar turns toward the heart of spring, we close the books on another season of the Puget Sound Seabird Survey (PSSS). Since October, dedicated teams have been out on the shoreline once a month, braving wind, rain, and the occasional winter chill to provide critical data to the Puget Sound Bird Observatory (PSBO).
While Kitsap Audubon isn’t the direct organizer of this citizen science powerhouse, we are proud to be its biggest fans, acting as a recruiter and promoter for the effort. It’s a perfect example of how local birders can contribute to a much larger picture, ensuring we have the data needed to protect our feathered neighbors for years to come.
A "Lite" Finish with Heavy Highlights
The final survey in April often feels a bit different than the peak of December. The massive rafts of wintering ducks have started their journeys north, leaving the bird counts a little "lite." However, Mother Nature made up for the lower numbers with a gorgeous farewell gift: warm breezes and brilliant sunshine.
Despite the quiet waters, our team—Justin, Chazz, Emma, and Catherine—hit the jackpot with some high-quality sightings:
The Shoreline Supermodel: A Harlequin Duck stood tall on a rock just five feet from the shore. It was a rare, spectacular opportunity for the photographer in the group to capture those intricate patterns in perfect light.
A "Lifer" Look: We spotted a Bonaparte’s Gull already in its striking breeding plumage (the jet-black head!). For me, seeing that transition in the field was a first.
Dressed to Impress: The Horned Grebes are also getting the memo that it’s spring, showing off the beginnings of their vibrant, golden "horns" and rufous necks.
As we said our farewells (only until next season, we hope!), the sense of accomplishment was as bright as the weather.
The Gorst Detour: A Lesson in Tides
Since I was so close to Gorst, I couldn’t resist a quick pitstop. It served as a classic reminder for all of us: The tide waits for no birder. I arrived to find the water’s edge miles away—or so it felt. When the tide is that far out, the waterfowl can be little more than distant dots. However, the mudflats and treeline had their own surprises in store. I happened upon:
A busy flock of Band-tailed Pigeons
An Eurasian-collared Dove
SIX Bald Eagles all soaring through the sky at once.
Get Out There!
If there is one takeaway from the end of this survey season, it’s this: Go. Just go. Whether it’s a formal scientific survey or a five-minute stop on your way home, nature doesn't keep a schedule. You never know when a Harlequin Duck will float right up to your boots or when half a dozen eagles will decide to put on a show.
See you on the trails (or the shoreline)!
