MARATHON — There's a little something for everyone who enjoys bird watching in Marathon.
A total of 32 species, which is up from the average of 29, and 1,126 birds were spotted by a group of 18 enthusiasts during the 46th edition of Marathon’s Christmas Bird Count on Sunday.
“We didn’t have the greatest weather, but we had a good excuse to get out there,” said Courtney Irvine, who is the compiler of the bird count.
“We had people who are committed every year and it’s almost like a tradition for some families to take part in this each Christmas. They cover the same area and are joined by their friends.
“We also get a couple of new participants that come out each year and it’s a nice way to get people interested in bird watching.”
The bird count spans a 24-kilometre diameter circle and includes Marathon, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, Pukaskwa National Park and the Lake Superior shoreline.
Participants can elect to stay inside and count the birds that visit their feeders during the course of the day, or they can venture into the great outdoors.
“It was definitely a warmer day this year than usual and we had a light drizzle going on, but the biggest challenge for us was actually the light, as it was flat, dim or very cloudy all day,” Irvine said.
“That can make it a little hard to see the colouration of the birds, which is useful in identifying what species you are seeing. The wind also made things a bit tricky as well as you’ll sometimes hear them before you see them.”
Irvine said there was some interesting findings during Sunday's count.
“We had a lot of American robins this year and we also had our first ever Great horned owl that was observed for the Marathon circle," she added.
Irvine started participating in the Bird Count in 2018 and became the main compiler in Marathon three years ago.
“I’ve been interested in birds for a number of years now and I work as an ecologist so it’s part of my job to study birds, but I love doing this as one of my hobbies.
“The best part of taking part in this each year is that you never know what you are going to see. You have to keep an open mind and keep your ears and eyes peeled.”
The 2025 bird count is set for Dec. 14 and Irvine is already inviting everyone to take part.
“It’s open to young and old and for new birders and experienced birders,” Irvine added.
“If you’re not sure about your bird ID skills, we try to team people up so that you have someone who’s super knowledgeable with someone who is out there for the first time.”