10th Annual Fayette County Audubon Society Bird Count

(Washington CH) – The Fayette Soil & Water Conservation District hosted its 10th annual bird count as part of the 122nd year Audubon Christmas bird count on Wednesday December 15th.

Data comes from over 2000 circles. The count runs from December 14th to January 5th. A fifteen-mile circle is identified and locations within the area are included. The circle can then be counted every year to compare the results.

This year, included in the count were sites in the City of Washington Court House, local farms, and Deer Creek State Park and Wildlife areas. This year 11 people participated and 37 species were counted.

(Back row Larry Hamilton, Malcolm Miller, Carolyn & Jack DeWeese, Sarah Schott, Roger Griffitts, Brigitte Hisey Front row: Sara & Don Creamer, Jen Dennison Megan Case)

Highlights of the count include one snow goose which has only been spotted two other years and five eagles which is a high for the group. Also, more duck species where spotted compared to the last couple of years. The ducks included, Ring-necked Ducks, Buffleheads, and Northern Shovelers. 54 American Crows, Red Tailed Hawks and American Kestrels also had higher counts than in past years.

If you would like to participate next year, contact Brigitte Hisey at (740) 636-0279 or e-mail at brigitte.hisey@fayette-co-oh.com.