THE Bermuda Audubon Society completed its annual Christmas bird count recently, recording close to 7,000 birds of 100 species.

The majority of birds recorded were starlings, kiskadees and sparrows although there were also unusual sightings of a snow goose and a piping plover.

"Some unusual species were seen this year," said Andrew Dobson, coordinator of the 32nd annual count. "New species for Bermuda's count included a grey heron at Tucker's Town Bay, a bird that is common on the other side of the Atlantic. A northern mockingbird on Boaz Island was also a new record, a species that is very common in North America, but rarely seen in Bermuda. Other unusual species included a snow goose on Belmont golf course, a hummingbird in St. David's and a surf scoter on Mangrove Lake. The low numbers of migrant warblers continues a depressing downward trend in the population of these species. It is a reflection of loss of habitat in summer (breeding grounds) and wintering areas, and in some cases the effects of global warming.

"Two species of globally endangered species of birds were recorded ? our own national bird, the cahow and the piping plover, a small shorebird which breeds in the eastern US and Canada. However 52 per cent of all birds recorded were starlings, kiskadees or sparrows ? all invasive species which shouldn't really be in Bermuda and they have certainly had an impact on our local birds."

Kiskadees in particular are extremely aggressive towards other species, Mr. Dobson explained. Similarly, starlings have taken over the nest holes of other birds, most notably the "natural nest holes bluebirds once had in cedar trees". Sparrows are even more destructive as they will actually go into bluebird boxes and take over nests there, killing any bluebirds they find.

This year marked the 32nd annual count for the Bermuda Audubon Society. Twenty members participated, counting every bird from dawn to dusk over a 24-hour period as well as those species seen during the week. More than 50,000 bird lovers assist in the count each year. Results are compiled into a database which spans more than 100 years. Its primary objective is to monitor the status and distribution of bird populations across the Western Hemisphere. The information is also vital for conservation.

Explained Mr. Dobson: "For example, local trends in bird populations can indicate habitat fragmentation or signal an immediate environmental threat such as groundwater contamination or poisoning from improper use of pesticides.

"Simply put, the Christmas Bird Count is citizen science in action. Citizen science is a way for people to connect with the natural world through fun activities that generate vital information for the conservation of birds by taking part in these science-based activities, and Audubon's science staff gains invaluable information. Most importantly, the birds benefit because it helps Audubon focus on those birds and habitats that need our help most."

Count results will be available as they are entered onto the National Audubon web site, www.audubon.org/bird/cbc.