Backyard Birds of Winter in Nova Scotia

Species seen in Nova Scotia during the winter of 1996-97.

Thanks to Blake Maybank for compiling the list, which is kept as part of a friendly competition with the neighbouring province of New Brunswick.

"The Nova Scotia 96/97 winter list follows. In absolute numbers, we easily defeated New Brunswick, but Brian Dalzell and I realised early on that a reasonable handicapping system was required. Eventually, after several years of doing these compilations, an average can be determined, similar to a golfer's handicap. Last year the NS list was 169, so our 183 total is an 108.3% improvement. NB didn't do a total last year.

Instead we tried to come up with an acceptable ratio, but it was hard to do; Brian and David thought 85/100, and I thought 88/100. Using the former, NB wins, and using the latter, NS wins. Therefore, under the circumstances, I am prepared to offer a draw this year.

Anyway, it was fun to collect the sightings, and we benefitted from last minute sightings of Eastern Bluebird, Gray Catbird, and Long-eared Owl. But these pale next to the Fieldfare in Sussex.

And now the list. The only known resident bird missed was, unsurprisingly, the Three-toed Woodpecker."

  • 96/97 Nova Scotia Winter Species Total = 183

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