2025

 2025 Bloomington CBC Fun Facts

We had 63 field observers and 4 feeder counters across 21 areas who collectively found 50 species and 7,380 individual birds. Strong  northwest winds (21–52 mph) and temps in the teens made for a challenging count day, but we still logged 158 hours and covered 572 miles by vehicle, foot, and cross-country ski.

  Notable Species Findings:

• Mallards led the circle at 1,872 individuals, with Area 7 (509) and Area 9 (438) driving the bulk of the total.

• American Robins put on a show at 1,318, roughly twice the typical count, anchored by Area 10 (304) and Area 9 (206).

• Feeder regulars slipped this year: Black-capped Chickadee (301), White-breasted Nuthatch (107), and American Goldfinch (168) were all down. We speculated that these counts were affected by the winds.

• Eastern Bluebirds were above average with 12 birds, spread across Areas 10, 5, and 16.

• Hermit Thrushes also ran above average at 3: two in Area 4 and one in Area 10.

• The area 7 group had a banner outing, turning up a Harlan's Red-tailed Hawk, a Barred Owl, and a Tufted Titmouse.

• A Red-headed Woodpecker was seen in Area 9.

• Area 18 produced a Pied-billed Grebe, an American Kestrel, and a Wood Duck.

• A Merlin turned up in Area 13.

• Two Northern Shrikes in Area 6, which also posted the circle's top Bald Eagle tally (48 of the circle's 165).

• Area 19 (which includes MSP airport) had a Snowy Owl.

  Thanks to all participants for braving the wind and cold!