by Lisa Bate, Wildlife Biologist, Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park (GNP) held its annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC) on Sunday, December 17, 2023. Thirty participants contributed to this event by covering 10 different routes in Glacier and one bird feeder just outside the park, but within the circle. Participants spent the day counting all bird species and individuals detected. The weather was very mild with calm winds, no rain or snow, and temperatures ranging between 25 and 30 degrees. There was little (one inch), if any, snow, so most observers walked their routes. Both still, and moving, water was open (not frozen).

We counted 463 birds, comprising 32 different species. Most observers commented on how quiet it was when not walking. The most common birds we encountered were the Black-capped Chickadee, Bohemian Waxwing, and the Common Goldeneye. Unusual birds included two Pied-billed Grebes and one Red-necked Grebe. We added a new species this year from our feeder count (just outside GNP) when a Ring-necked Pheasant was observed. 

Observers took some fantastic photos for Christmas Bird Count. Check out the circle versus the crescent moon pattern on the male Common and Barrow’s Goldeneyes side-by-side. J. Belt successfully took pictures through a spotting scope to confirm both Pied-billed and Red-necked Grebes at the head of Lake McDonald. On the McGee Meadows Loop—the only route with enough snow to be skiable—observers took perfect pictures of otter tracks and coyote tracks.

Common and Barrow’s Goldeneye’s – photo by Karen Nichols
Linda and Leslie at Glacier CBC – Photo by SG
Common and Barrow’s Goldeneye’s – photo by Karen Nichols

Glacier’s CBC started in 1962, and contributed to the 124th year of the National Audubon

Society’s CBC. Thanks to all participants for contributing their expertise, time, and energy for this annual event. Their efforts are invaluable in tracking long-term changes in species abundance, diversity, and range changes, in Glacier and throughout North America. Thanks to Glacier National Park Conservancy, and its donors, for providing hot drinks and snacks both before, and after, the count. It was so good to see folks again!