President's Corner

For the first time since their inception, I was not able to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count. However, I see from the GBBC website that Saskatoon once again led the province in number of species reported (39) and number of checklists submitted (52). Well done. In looking over the results, I am struck by the lack of Bohemian Waxwings; a grand total of 11 were reported for the entire province. Yet, there were thousands reported from Alberta and BC. Why are the waxwings avoiding Saskatchewan - food, predators, politics? The berry crop seems normal, at least around the city, and I haven’t seen an over-abundance of Merlins and Boreal Owls. It must be politics.

I encourage those with internet access to visit the GBBC website: www.birdcount.org. It is especially fun to look at the distribution maps for various species. You can appreciate why Horned Larks, juncos, and tree sparrows are among the first birds to arrive in the spring when you see that they spend the winter not too far away. Also, you can ponder why Saskatchewan Turkey Vultures go all the way to Central America when others of their kind are happy in California or the southern or eastern states. In other news, it seems that the reports of my paltry 2010 bird list has elicited some interest among members. I am happy to report that after the northern owling trip, my list has grown to 19 species.

Robert Johanson
SNS President