10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 7, 2011

While I often tease Corey about how many albatrosses we have down here in New Zealand, the fact is that the United States has three species of Albatross that breed within its boundaries, albeit one of them only very rarely, and visit the western shores of North America. The dances of the albatrosses are famous.

Albatross 172

Albatross Hawaii New Zealand Japan 172

10,000 Birds

MARCH 2, 2011

In particular the South Island destination of Kaikoura is world-renowned for the flocks of albatrosses and giant petrels floating right off the pelagic boat, and the ease of the trip makes it a must-visit for any visiting birder. The first to cruise past in a hurry were the stunning Cook’s Petrels.

New Zealand 174

New Zealand Albatross 2011 Cooking 174

10,000 Birds

FEBRUARY 28, 2012

Here is a flock of endangered species. Shorebirds, of course, are one of the groups of birds most known and loved for their social tendencies. This is my flock of Laysan Albatross , on Midway Atoll. Look carefully and you can pick out some Least Auklets as well. Buldir Island, AK. Chavarrillo, Veracruz, Mexico.

North Dakota 160

North Dakota LACS Oakland Iceland 160

10,000 Birds

FEBRUARY 12, 2012

One of the most unusual factors has been the high number of 3rd calendar year (or 2nd-winter) individuals, an age group that is normally the scarcest. Baer’s Pochard is an endangered species that has undergone a rapid acceleration in its decline over the last decade, with a total world population of less than 5000 individuals remaining.

Ireland 155

Ireland Iceland Japan Albatross 155

10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 27, 2013

but I really feel I should nominate an albatross, if only because I love taunting Corey about them. Only trouble is, which of the seven species I saw this year do I pick? Black-browed Albatross by Duncan Wright (Click it to make it big.). Dragan had a real stunner for his Best Bird of the Year!

2013 167

2013 Costa Rica Birds India 167