Managing Wildlife Populations
Heron Colony Nest Count: Great blue herons are a common sight throughout Skagit county. Often spotted wading in shallow waters, these birds stand out because of their long legs, bluish gray feathers, and daggerlike bill. Great blue herons are colony nesters, meaning, several hundred birds will build their nests in close proximity to each other. Nests are built in treetops, and one tree can contain several nests. The highest observed in Skagit county has been 28 nests in one tree. Winter is the best time to count nests because there aren’t any leaves blocking the view. More importantly, the birds have vacated the area and there isn’t a risk of disturbing them.
District 14 Biologists Waddell and Soltysiak joined the Skagit Land Trust in counting nests at the Skagit heron colony site. If a tree contained a nest, the number of nests were recorded, and signs of recent occupancy were searched for. These signs include poop on the tree, eggshell fragments on the ground, and feathers or bones around the base of the tree. Each year, the Skagit Land Trust records nest success through the use of game cameras. Researchers are able to live-stream video and observe herons as they build their nests, lay their eggs, and raise their young. This incredible project provides valuable insights on great blue heron behavior.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Inspections: Biologist Anderson worked with Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist Evans to provide for recent inspection needs at a District 12 area wildlife rehabilitation facility.
East-West Bobcat Study: Biologists Anderson and Smith assisted Research Scientist Kertson with running his westside traplines for bobcat. This study is examining a host of landscape spatial and temporal aspects of this species on either side of the Cascade Crest in King and Kittitas counties. More to come!