Tracking the herons this 2007 nesting season

For the most current report, see the home page.

2/28/2007: Only 20-30 herons were seen at Black River today, down from 40-50 last week. Most were in the staging area, and one or two were hunting. None were in their nests. The bald eagle pair continue their nesting activities, with one or both in the nest periodically.

To compare this season with previous ones, we are seeing only one-quarter to one-third the number of herons we should this time of year, and nesting season should be fully underway, with these magnificent birds paired up and repairing nests. Experts are concerned that two recent factors may have created a tipping point for this colony:

• The elimination of the rich habitat on the adjacent hillside a year and a half ago.
• The pair of bald eagles nesting in the colony this year.

It's still early in the season and anything can happen. However, there is reason for concern. This is by far the lowest number of herons we have seen this time of year at Black River. 

2/24/2007: 40 - 50 herons. This will change as the nesting season continues. Their numbers are expected to increase significantly, however, the presence of the nesting bald eagles could change everything. Stay tuned. (For more information about the eagles, see "Introduction to Herons Forever," below.)

2/28/2007: Only 20-30 herons were seen at Black River today, down from 40-50 last week. Most were in the staging area, and one or two were hunting. None were in their nests. The bald eagle pair continue their nesting activities, with one or both in the nest periodically.

To compare this season with previous ones, we are seeing only one-quarter to one-third the number of herons we should this time of year, and nesting season should be fully underway, with these magnificent birds paired up and repairing nests. Experts are concerned that two recent factors may have created a tipping point for this colony:

• The elimination of the rich habitat on the adjacent hillside a year and a half ago.
• The pair of bald eagles nesting in the colony this year.

It's still early in the season and anything can happen. However, there is reason for concern. This is by far the lowest number of herons we have seen this time of year at Black River. 

2/24/2007: 40 - 50 herons. This will change as the nesting season continues. Their numbers are expected to increase significantly, however, the presence of the nesting bald eagles could change everything. Stay tuned. (For more information about the eagles, see "Introduction to Herons Forever," below.)