2010 Midwinter Waterfowl Survey Results

Survey conditions for the 2010 Midwinter Waterfowl Survey were excellent. Prolonged cold weather in the weeks prior to the survey resulted in many of the inland lakes and ponds being frozen. When inland water areas freeze, waterfowl concentrate along the coast and on the major river systems. Clear skies and moderate winds on the day of the survey led to unlimited visibility and good flying conditions.

Counts of all puddle ducks were above their short-term (5-year) averages. The mallard count was the highest in over 15 years, as was the count for American black ducks. American wigeon and gadwall counts also were above their respective five-year averages. Following a recent trend, however, most puddle ducks were observed in urban sanctuaries, often associated with supplemental feeding activities. "The Department discourages citizens from feeding waterfowl for a number of reasons, including increased risk of disease transmission, potential for poor nutrition, and a clouding of the real issue facing waterfowl and wildlife in general in Connecticut – loss of suitable habitat," said Rick Jacobson, Acting Director for the DEP Wildlife Division. The Department has published a brochure, "Do Not Feed Waterfowl," that outlines the potential hazards of feeding waterfowl. It is available on the Department’s Web site at www.ct.gov/dep/lib/dep/wildlife/pdf_files/game/NoFeedWF.pdf.

The scaup count was well below that of last year and continued to be lower than the historical wintering numbers for Connecticut. Declines in scaup numbers throughout North America continue to be of concern for biologists nationwide. Habitat changes on the breeding grounds may be a factor in the long-term decline of scaup. Mergansers were abundant but below levels observed last year and just under the five-year average. The counts for common goldeneyes also were less than last year. Counts for buffleheads and long-tailed ducks were above those from last year and slightly above their five-year averages.

Atlantic brant numbers were lower than last year and below the recent average. Canada goose counts were high for this survey and the highest recorded in a decade.

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