Christmas Bird Count 2024

December 18th was my day to join Kristina wheeler, Noel Williams, Dave Eslinger, and Tony Panek on our annual trek to Brosnan Forest to participate in the Christmas Bird Count.

Brosnan Forest is a privateley owned property of Norfolk Southern covering 14,400-acres of timber and wildlife preserve 35 miles northwest of Charleston in Dorchester, SC. The forest, which Norfolk Southern has owned and maintained since the 1830s, is part of one of the largest intact coastal ecosystems on the East Coast, and it makes for great birding!

Our group divided in to two parties to cover as much territory as possible in our allotted time, as we were driven by two Norfolk Southern employees in open bed 4x4 SUVs. Although it was a little chilly, it was nothing compared to last year's freeze!

Kristina's Group was able to identify a total of 52 species, including 8 sightings of the Red Cockaded Woodpecker that has a protected and restored Long Leaf Pine habitat on the property. Dave and Tony garnered 44 in their section, so I think we can say it was a successful day.

Above: Red Cockaded Woodpecker

We were also fortunate to spot two Kestrels, one of which was carrying lunch!

Above: Kestrel with its catch
Below: Female Hooded Mergansers

Below: Red Tailed Hawk

Stay tuned as there may be a future Walk & Talk  visit to the property in our future if Dave and Nicki can negotiate a suitable time!

Our crew