For the second consecutive year, I have the pleasure of reviewing data from counts in Mexico and Belize.
The number of counts increased from 37 circles last year to 43 circles this year, but two only partially participated. There are also still five counts that are active but were not run this season.
A total of at least 666 people participated in Mexico and Belize, of which 101 in Belize (against 116 last year, with one count not submitted this season) and 562 in Mexico (against 354 the year past). A big hug of thanks goes to each of the participants, as with this growth we increase our knowledge of the wintering birds of Mexico and Belize.
The number of species seen in the region is amazing. Between December 14, 2016 and January 5, 2017, 748 species of birds were recorded with a total of 823 taxa, ranging from the arctic pelagic Northern Fulmar to the tropical forest Bare-crowned Antbird. Many endemic species, such as Wagler's Chachalaca, Worthen's Sparrow, and Black Catbird are included as well as 33 species of raptors, 40 species of hummingbirds, 25 species of wrens, and 53 species of warblers. What an amazing tally.
Of course, as usual, the San Blas Nayarit count is the most productive in species with a total of 283 (two less than last year), and like last year, followed by Belmopan, Belize count with 254 species (8 species more than last year). But the CBC is not only about counting the most species possible, it is about monitoring the birds in a given place. Less diverse sites such as the Ciénegas de Chapala with 61 species are also an important effort to learn and contribute information year after year about the birds present.
This season, thanks to the effort of local observers, new circles are included, such as Colima, Sinaloa. Others did trial counts who did not send data this year, but will in future seasons.
So now we see you for the Count 118 that will take place this winter 2017/2018. Record your dates, and see you out there…