In anticipation of the Muskegon Wastewater Christmas Bird Count, I spent today checking backcountry conditions at the Muskegon State Game Area East Unit (pictured, red). Located primarily in southern Newaygo County, this parcel, at the headwaters of Mosquito Creek, is seldom visited by birders. The lack of snow enabled me to easily hike 10.1 miles of trails (pictured, green) in the southeast portion. Because there are no residences (i.e. bird feeders), songbird densities were typically low for this time of the year. However, there were a few highlights, including:
Bald Eagle - 1
Rough-legged Hawk - 1
Ruffed Grouse - 1 drumming
Common Raven - 2 (possibly 3)
Northern Shrike - 1
Common Redpoll - 4
It would be nice if these species
cooperate for CBC on Wednesday.
Brian Johnson
Brian Johnson
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