WATERBIRD COUNT 2024 SUMMARY

Sunset Point, Presque Isle State Park

By Jerry McWilliams  

This year marks the 38th season of waterbird counting at Sunset Point, documenting bird movements along the south shore of Lake Erie. Due to storms, field hours decreased to 217 from last year’s 231. Bird numbers also declined, with 628 birds per hour recorded—a 39% drop from 2023. Warmer weather likely contributed to lower duck counts, though White-winged Scoter set a seasonal record. Red-breasted Mergansers fell sharply, while Gadwall and Mallard numbers increased. Rare sightings included Harlequin Duck and Purple Sandpipers, though some expected rarities were absent. The full report, with species comparisons, is available in the attached PDF.

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