Based on the discussion on the lack of birds this year and subsequent BBS reports, I thought I would share some comparisons of 2021 to the past eight years for two routes I do in the northeast (Julesburg & Stoneham) and in the northwest (Lay & Maybell). Averages are in (parentheses) Seems to be no consistent pattern of lower numbers among these select species. Good year for Lark Buntings around Stoneham.
Lay/Maybell
Mourning Dove – 72 (51)
Common Nighthawk – 1 (9)
Western Kingbird – 14 (10)
Horned Lark – 27 (30)
Bewick's Wren – 5 (7)
Sage Thrasher - 44 (43)
Brewer's Sparrow – 127 (84)
Vesper Sparrow - 66 (57)
Western Meadowlark – 270 (203)
Julesburg/Stoneham
Ring-necked Pheasant – 37 (56)
Mourning Dove – 112 (110)
Common Nighthawk – 9 (3)
Western Kingbird – 23 (35)
Horned Lark – 155 (168)
Grasshopper Sparrow – 30 (31)
Lark Bunting – 214 (122)
Western Meadowlark – 270 (294)
Brad Andres, Evergreen