Anatidae

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Family: Anatidae

Group: Bird, Species


Species   Sp     Su     F     W     Br     Notes  


Emperor Goose VR + + + - Reports from the northern part of the region where it is probably best considered Very Rare or Accidental Fall through Spring.

Listed as Common in Yakutat during Fall and Winter (check this). Very Rare in spring at Glacier Bay and Juneau (Accidental in Sitka). Accidental in Fall (Juneau) and winter (Sitka). No reports from south of Sitka or from upper Lynn Canal.

  • Cornell BoW site shows the typical winter range of this species extending as far east as Kodiak Island and Cook Inlet. Yakutat checklist lists as Common in Fall and Winter?
  • Summer record in Southeast - from older GB list -> 2010 SE list?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • W2008-2009 (Yakutat - 22 January 2009, photo)
  • W2016-2017(Gustavus - 17-19 December 2016 - mentions probably fewer than 15 SEAK records)

Other Records

Snow Goose U + U + - Mostly observed during spring and fall migration. Although large flocks fly over the region, except for a couple of areas (primarily at Yakutat Forelands and the Stikine Delta), they are not consistently found on the ground in significant numbers.

On ground prefer open grassy areas such estuary and delta meadows.

Dark morph geese are very rare in the region.

  • Lynn Canal and North on margin of main migration flyway?
  • Typical migration dates? mid-April - early May; mid-Sep - late-Oct?
  • List Summer records?
  • List Winter records?
  • Haines showing Rare year round?
  • Preferred habitat check

*Blue morph records? Two so far, but JNU lists as + in Spring.

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2008: recorded moving through region 23 Sept - 3 October
  • Sp2009: 15 April 2009 first reports (WRG, JNU). Migrating flocks observed through 25 April 2009 (high count 300 over KTN).
  • F2009: 24 Sept 2009 new arrival date for KTN (by two days). 23 Sept 2009 at Gustavus
  • Sp2010: First reports 15 March at WRG (notes that same as 2009, so maybe an error, and this should be 15 April?). Migration typically peaks mid-April to early May. Late flocks observed 15 May at JNU, KTN, GUS. Straggler at JNU 30 May was latest report
  • F2010: Unusual sighting of 4 at KTN airport 20 August 2010 - no prior summer reports of non-breeders. Typical numbers in region later in the season, including 2000-3000 at mouth of Stikine 18 October. Single bird at KTN to 7 November was new local late date.
  • Sp2012: Bird at JNU 9 May 2012 banded in Skagit Valley 21 March 2021. SEAK migrants breed on Wrangel Island, Russia. Some winter on Fraser and Skagit river deltas (get orange staining on head from iron oxide). May 2003 banded bird observed in JNU had been banded on Wrangel Island in 2001.
  • F2012: Early flock at WRG 18 Sept 2012. multiple reports mentioned from last week of Sept through mid-October.
  • Su2015: Four at GUS 3 June 2015 provided a rare summer record
  • F2015: Lone bird in JNU 8 November was late. Most depart by late October
  • W2015-2016: One at Mitkof Island 30 December, another individual wintered in JNU (present through 10 March 2016). Few mid-winter records from Alaska.
  • F2016: Large numbers observed over KTN 17-22 Oct. Flocks totaling 1250 birds was one of the larges KTN counts ever. 50 over JNU 16 October (where 'hit or miss' in the fall, according to GBV). Other reports from HNH and SIT for 17 Oct. One on ground at GUS 18 Nov new local late date (by 18 days). Most leave region by late October.
  • Sp2017: Est. 4000 at Stikine River mouth 29 April. This is only migration route staging site for this species in SEAK
  • Su2017: up to 3 stragglers 4-8 June at JNU were very late. Few June records for JNU
  • F2017: Late singles at CRG (8 Nov) and GUS (22 Nov).
  • W2017-2018: One at GUS 6-18 December one of few local winter records. One at JNU 26 Dec remained through the end of winter (second year in a row one overwintered)
  • Sp2018: Wintering bird at JNU last seen 11 March. Stikine River mouth estimates 5000 on 14 April, 1700 on 21 April, 1500 on 30 April, 1100 on 5 May. GUS and JNU higher than average numbers 9 Apr-27 May. Max at JNU 167 on 6 May. High counts at GUS 400 on 29 April and 2 May, 600 on 20 April. Also observed at SKG 5-12 May - max of 22 on 6 May. Blue-morph observed 9 May 2018 at GUS. 2nd report from SEAK? Prior report of 2 at Stikine River mouth 27 April - 4 May 1992.
Ross's Goose VR + - - - Very Rare in Spring with one individual lingering into early June (2013). Reports from Stikine River (1907), Sitka (April 1940), Juneau (2004, 2018), Kechikan (2009), and Gustavus (2013, 2015, 2017).
  • Missing any records?
  • Updated regional Spring to Very Rare, and summer to Accidental

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • Sp2009: One flying with Snow Geese over KTN, 4 prior records
  • Sp2013: One at GUS 11 May-4 June. First local 6th SEAK record
  • Su2013: Continuing at GUS new late date for Spring in SEAK.
  • Sp2015: 14 May at GUS, 2nd local record, 7th from SEAK (all in Spring)
  • Sp2017: 7-16 April 2017 at GUS 3rd local, ~8th from SEAK (all in Spring)
  • Sp2018: 11 May 2018 at JNU ~9th from SEAK
Greater White-fronted Goose FC VR U VR - Fairly Common in spring and Uncommon in fall migration except in northern Lynn Canal, with most individuals not spending long in the region. Occasional stragglers linger into summer or winter.

When not flying overhead, found along salt water beaches, meadows, and lakes.

Observations are primarily of subspecies A. a. frontalis, likely breeding in western and northwestern Alaska. There are occasional sightings of the larger and darker subspecies A. a. gambeli (also known as Tule Goose), which breeds around Cook Inlet in southcentral Alaska.

  • Typical migration window for spring and fall?
  • Northern Lynn Canal outside typical flyway?
  • More likely to fly over without stopping in the fall? (cf. BoW account)
  • High counts?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Sp2009: larger than average numbers from 19 April - 17 May at KTN, WRG, SIT, GUS. Peak of 5000 in 2.5 hours at KTN afternoon of 21 April. Report of three 'Tule' geese in JNU 15 May. Not formally documented in region.
  • Su2009: Birds lingering into season at JNU (two on 3 June), GB (seven on 5 June) and SIT (one through 10 July). An adult, at JNU 19 July first recorded at Mendenhall wetlands in July.
  • F2009: Large passage through region in late September. Flocks flying over KTN on 24 Sept, including 6800 counted during two short intervals. Such numbers are unprecedented for the area in the fall. Late bird lingered in SIT through 18 October.
  • Sp2011: "Tule" goose photographed at SIT 22 May. (Includes notes on wintering and breeding range). One prior Fall record from JNU (1Sep 2003), plus two May reports of probable Tule Geese (1 May 2005, May 2009?)
  • Sp2012: Tule Goose photographed a Sitka is third documented for region, and second spring in a row at Sika
  • F2012: One at JNU 20 October new local late date. Individuals at KTN 20-21 Oct and 18 Nov were very late. Most migrants pass through from late August to late September.
  • Sp2013: One at KTN 21 March several weeks earlier than previous local earliest (wintered nearby?). Very strong migration late April-early May, especially in northern SEAK. GUS high counts of 1100 on 27 April, and 780 on 6 May; JNU peak 350 27 April with additional counts 100-200 through 22 May; SIT 1000 flying over 27 April; SGY 75 on 2 and 8 May; WRG 150 on 24 April, 400 at Dry Straits 8 May; KTN flocks noted flying over 26-30 April max 4500 during one 5.5 hour period 27 April, flock on the ground up to 140 on 15 May unusually large for area.
  • Su2013: Flocks into mid-June following noteworthy Spring. GUS peak 26 on 2 June and 27 on 16 June; JNU up to 10 on 2 and 4 June, 5 still present through 29 June; Saltery Cove on POW had 13 18-21 June. Latest in region 2 at GUS on 4 July.
  • F2013: One at Sitka to 28 November quite late. Stragglers quite rare after October.
  • W2013-2014: One lingered to 1 Dec at SIT. Fewer than 10 Alaska records of this species.
  • W2014-2015: One at Game Creek, Chichagof Island Nov - 11 February. Fewer than 10 mid-winter reports in state, all from SEAK.
  • Sp2015: Three at GUS 7 April were about a week ahead of typical. Large movement occurred throughout the region beginning on 20 April. JNU max 400 on 20 April; GUS max 550 on 20 April; KTN max 2350 on 21 April
  • Su2015: Small numbers regularly linger into June. This year, 30 at GUS and 27 at JNU on 3 June. Eight at PBG on 15 July rare mid-summer report.
  • W2015-2016: Late individuals GUS to 4 Dec and JNU to 15 Dec; Two spent entire winter at HNH.
  • Wp2016: Wintering HNH birds present into March with one present to 11 April. At least 20 at GUS on 19 March earliest ever migrants at location by more than two weeks. Massive flight over KTN on 18 April. Between 12pm and 2:30pm an estimated 33,000 GWFG. Later same day flocks observed over Icy Strait, including minimum 3000 over GUS and 2000 (mostly GWFG) over HNH.
  • Sp2017: One Tule Goose at KTN 13 May was first local record. Only 4th or 5th documented for SEAK. One collared bird seen at KTN had collar attached in Sept 2013. Wintered primarily at Delevan NWR, California, located in upper Cook Inlet several times following summer.
  • Su2017: Bird at GUS to 5 June. Two at JNU on 4 July were unusual mid-summer. Only 2nd July record for JNU.
  • F2017: Late flock at CRG 22 on 25 October. Lone bird at JNU through 11 Nov.
  • F2018: One at JNU through 2 Nov; singles at KTN 10 and 17 Nov; up to nine at KLWK through 19 Nov; PBG through Nov including max of 14 on 29 Nov
Brant U R R VR - Uncommon during spring migration, with some birds lingering into summer. Rare during fall migration. Very Rare in winter along the outer coast and Glacier Bay.

Migration routes seem to favor western part of the region and/or the outer coast.

Found almost exclusively on or near salt water.

According to the Birds of the World entry on Brant, most, if not all, of the Brant that pass through Southeast Alaska are on their way from or to Izembek Lagoon on the Alaska Penninsula. During fall migration, most Brant make a direct cross-Pacific flight from Izembek to their wintering locations on the West Coast. In spring, the migration takes more time with a greater number of stops.

  • Uncommon in Fall at GB and Yakutat?
  • Haines U R U R?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • Su2009: Late migrants reported well into June and in larger than normal numbers. At KTN 50 on 8 June, 30 on 12 June, 12 on 18 June, and 4 on 12 July provided first local mid-summer record. Small numbers at JNU through 6 July. 2 near HNS on 2 July. Numerous in GB+GUS area during June, including max count of 135 on 4 June. 20 in SIT sound 3 June.
  • F2009: 5 near Dixon Entrance on 12 August probably summered in SEAK. 25 September an early bird was at SIT. More typical timings, 8 at WRG 11 Nov; 9 at SIT 13 Nov; 1 at GUS 17-21 Nov. Most of breeding population flies across the gulf. Found most frequently in SEAK in Spring. Uncommon or Rare in Fall.
  • Sp2010: Recorded at various locations from mid-April through end of period. Two near JNU on 14 April, one of earliest local records. Hight counts at GUS included 2125 on 9 May - doubling previous high count for area. One of highest ever for SEAK. 400-500 still remaining near GUS on 20-21 May.
  • Su2010: Seven at SIT 29 June-12 July; At KTN five on 30 June, 1 on 28 July; at JNU five on 20 June, one on 25 June. Fair numbers lingered will into summer in GB area - likely an annual phenomenon. High counts included 54 as late as 17 July at GUS. Smaller numbers found in different parts of GB in June with some lingering to July. cf. Wik and Streveler (1968).
  • F2010: Eight at GUS 3 August, and three there 24 August, likely summered locally, as did the two birds at Sitka 19–20 August.
  • W2010-2011: Three at GUS 25 December were very late. Casual or Very Rare in Winter east of traditional wintering location at Izembek lagoon.
  • W2011-2012: Small numbers at GUS all winter (only two prior Winter records). Max of seven 4-19 Feb at GUS. Twelve at Pleasant Island 18 Feb. Two at SIT Jan-early Feb.
  • Sp2012: First reported at GUS 7 April with 21 birds, and at SIT 8 April with 20 birds. Max numbers were at GUS with peak of 400 on 21 April, 300 on 8 May.
  • Su2012: Late reports from June in SIT and KTN. As is typical, larger numbers at GUS+GB. Max 176 at GUS 9 June. 36 at Tarr Inlet 21 June. Latest were 3 at GUS, 11 July.
  • F2012: 24 at GUS 24 August summered in the area.
  • Sp2013: One found dead near SIT was banded as an adult on 26 July 1988 at Albert Edward Bay on the eastern shore of Victoria Island, Canadian Arctic. More than 25 years old at death, one of oldest Black Brant reported.
  • Su2013: Largest numbers at GUS+GB max 220 on 4 June. Latest 10 in West Arm on 8 July and three at GUS 29 July. Also noted at SIT, 6 on 1 June. A single at Saltery Cove PoW 4 June. Near KTN seven on 5 June. JNU two on 9 June. Very Rare July report from lower Chatham where one seen 12 July. One at JNU 13 July. One at Dixon Entrance 15 July.
  • F2013: Summering birds lingered into August at GUS and JNU. Rare fall migrant turned up with Cackling Geese at GUS 12-15 Oct.
  • Sp2014: Three at GUS 31 March and two near JNU 12-13 April established new early arrival dates for both locations. Max at GUS was 400 on 1 May, about average for that location. Max at SIT 100 on 17 May.
  • W2014-2015: Four at Beardslee Islands GB on 14 Dec were late.
  • Su2015: Singles at SIT on 1 June; near JNU on 13 June; and 35 near GUS 25 June were late.
  • Su2016: Six at Little Island in Lynn Canal on 23 June. One lingering near JNU to at least 2 July
  • F2016: Late birds at GUS 22 Oct, 18 Nov, and 24 Nov.
  • W2016-2017: One was late at GUS, 7 Dec. Another 8-24 Feb was only 2nd mid-winter record locally.
  • Su2017: Usual small numbers at GUS through June. Max 23 on 5 June. Singles at KTN 10 June, 21 July. Inian Pass 11 July
  • Su2018: Three at Hyder 11 June may be 1st local report. Only other reports were from GB, where Uncommon in Summer (max 20 on 3 June).
Cackling Goose U R U VR - Probably Uncommon in migration (apart from upper Juneau and northern Lynn Canal, where they are probably Rare at best), and Very Rare in Fall and Winter.
  • Main migration timing?
  • High counts and/or significant staging areas?
  • Subspecies notes? Small to medium-sized flocks of both Aleutian subspecies and minima go through Sitka

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • Sp2009: Likely Uncommon to Common Spring migrant. Earliest arrivals 15 April with 10 at GUS. 21 April with 5 at KTN. Small numbers found at GUS, JNU, SIT max count 20 at GUS on 29 April. At KTN on 25 April, large flight (8800) of geese, include at least 1000 minima Cackling Geese, many other white-cheeked geese similar in size to GWFG, which may have been Cackling Geese. Latest reports 16 May at SIT, 17 May at KTN and GUS.
  • Su2009: One at JNU 12 June was late. This species probably very rare or casual in region.
  • F2009: Likely Uncommon in Fall, but [due to recency of split] status is not well known. Most probably overfly region, can be difficult to ID with certainty. Small taverni or parvipes reported a JNU 24 Aug - 13 Sept, with max 65 on 9 Sept. Three Aleutian Cackling Geese at SIT 31 Oct-9 Nov and at KTN four 3-12 Nov plus six on 10 Nov.
  • Sp2010: Recorded in region between 25 April and 25 May. First week of KTN flying over KTN, 150 on 3 May, 350 on 5 May. Small numbers on ground at KTN, Mitkof I., SIT, GUS, JNU max 40 at GUS on 15 May, 35 at JNU 18 May. Observations since split suggest Uncommon to Fairly Common in Spring with peak movement from late April to mid-May, often with GWFG.
  • Su2010: Late flock at GUS 24 on 1 June, with one on 2 June. One at JNU 6 June.
  • F2010: Observed in KTN mid-October with flocks of CAGO. At GUS 3 Oct - 12 Nov (max 3), at SIT 31 Oct - 16 Nov (max 15) , and one near JUN 15 Oct.
  • Sp2011: Fairly common spring migrant with peak from late April to mid-May. Reported in JNU 10 Apr-20 May. GUS 22 Apr - 29 May, KTN 21 Apr - 18 May. One Aleutian Cackling Goose at KTN 9-17 April was rare and very early.
  • Sp2012: One at GUS on 9 April was early. Otherwise reported in small numbers 15 April through end of period (max 80 in GB on 6 May)
  • Su2012: Late birds at GUS included 16 on 1 June and a single bird 29 June. Stragglers are rare in SEAK during the summer. Only two prior summer records from GUS+GB area.
  • F2012: Small numbers at GUS mid-September - 22 Nov (max 24 on 14 Oct). At SIT 19 Oct - 28 Nov (max 15 on 15 Nov).
  • Sp2013: Strong migration included new high counts at GUS (18 April+) and JNU (26 Apr - 21 May). Max at JNU 400 on 27 Apr (double previous high). 100-200 regularly in GUS during peak, max 300 on 30 April, and 225 on 1 May. Max at KTN (all birds were seen flying north) 550 on 27 April, and 600 on 29 April. Often mixed with GWFG, making numbers difficult to estimate. Banded CACG at KTN 26 Apr - 3 May had been banded a few weeks earlier in Oregon.
  • Su2013: Two near JNU 2-9 June were late
  • F2013: Single birds at GUS on 13 Aug and JNU 1 Sept were very early, likely representing non-breeding birds that summered in region. CACG is an Uncommon Fall migrant and observed less often in Fall than Spring. Small numbers at GUS 27 Sept-15 Oct (max 15 on 27 Sept) and three a Klawock on 2 Nov.
  • Sp2014: Est. 1500 observed flying over Coffman Cove on 27 April. Max counts elsewhere below average - 45 at GUS on 8 May; well below average at KTN 130 on 26 April. Only small numbers reported elsewhere.
  • Su2014: Up to three observed near JNU through 14 June were late.
  • W2014-2015: Discussion on Taverner's Cackling vs. Lesser Canada
  • Su 2015: Single birds at SIT on 1 June and near JNU on 13 June plus 35 at GUS 25 June were late. Small numbers can be expected to linger through June.
  • F2015: Five at GUS during Nov. were getting late. One lingered to 28 Nov.
  • F2016: Among few reported was an Aleutian Cackling Goose at SIT 10 Nov+. Most Aleutian and minima fly across gulf + north Pacific to wintering areas and bypass Southeast Alaska
  • F2017: Only reported at two locations, flocks of 13, 24, and 28 at GUS on 7, 11, 17 Oct. Three at Neka Bay on 19 Oct.
  • Sp2018: One at GUS 30 Mar-1 April was earliest local arrival date by seven days. Five Aleutian Cackling Geese near JNU 11 May were unusual. This ssp is Casual or Very Rare migrant. Northbound flight of hundreds observed west of Chichagof Island from cruise ship 4 May. "In spring, Cackling and Greater White-fronted geese migrate north through Southeast Alaska to coastal South-central Alaska on their way to nesting areas to the west (Ely and Dzubin 1994, Mowbray et al. 2002); at least some portion of these birds fly over the Gulf of Alaska as indicated by observations at isolated Middleton Island (DeCicco et al. 2017)."
  • Su2018: Late individuals at GUS 2 and 6 June, and HYD 8-9 June.
  • F2018: Larger than average numbers. Max 387 over Craig/Klawock on 25 Oct, with smaller numbers on adjacent dates. Large numbers on ground including 53 at SIT on 7-12 Nov; 93 at Klawock on 18 Nov; up to 30 at HNH through 8 Nov; and 20 at KTN 10 Nov. Latest at Neck Lake on PoW 22 Nov. Very Rare Aleutian Cackling Geese were among minima at SIT and CRG with max of 9 at CRG on 17 Nov.
Canada Goose C FC C FC Y Common in migration (especially as fly-overs) across most of the region, with the exception of upper Lynn Canal, where they are Rare(?). In Summer both nesting and non-breeding birds are present, though distribution is uneven across the region and varies from Uncommon in most of the region, and Fairly Common to Common from Glacier Bay to Yakutat.

In Winter Uncommon to Common with the exception of upper Lynn Canal.

  • Are Haines and Skagway really so different in occurrence from each other?
  • Main migration timing?
  • High counts and/or significant staging areas?
  • Subspecies notes?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • W2013-2014: New local high count at JNU of 2140 on 4 Jan.
  • Sp2014: Six identified as parvipes ssp observed near JNU 12 April. This ssp is rare or uncommon migrant in most of region. Though sometimes it occurs in 'pretty good numbers' at GUS.
  • Sp2016: Maximum counts of Lesser Canada Goose at GUS included 95 on 7 April and 80 on 14 April. A single Lesser at HNH on 3 April, and one or two on five days at JNU 9 Apr - 21 May. Large pale-breasted bird at JNU identified as moffitti/maxima. Two prior local reports of large pale-breasted birds (19 May 2008, 30 April 2007).
  • F2016: Lesser Canada Goose reports included a flock of 23 near JNU on 7-8 Sept. Four of these lingered to 16 Sept. Another flock of 23 at JNU on 30 Oct, and one at KTN on 22 Oct The Lesser Canada Goose is rare or uncommon migrant in SEAK.
  • F2017: Lesser Canada Geese at JNU 6 Sept (two) and 4 Nov (one).
  • W2017-2018: Single Lesser Canada Geese at GUS on 6 Dec. At JNU on 9 Dec and 19 Feb. This ssp which is smaller and much paler than resident ssp (fulva) is Casual in Southeast Alaska in winter.
Trumpeter Swan U R U U Y Uncommon Spring and Fall migrant across much of the region. Very Rare to Rare in Summer, except where nesting is known to occur along the Yakutat Forelands and Chilkat Valley. Uncommon to Fairly Common in winter (except northern Lynn Canal?)

Wintering birds found on freshwater and estuaries which remain open. Typically arriving in early November and departing in late winter or early spring (depending on conditions, with earlier departures in warmer years).

  • Winter distribution? More common on outer coast? More habitat based?
  • Changes in wintering and/or nesting distribution?
  • Timing of arrival departure of wintering birds similar to what's seen in Sitka?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Su2009: Non-breeders included single subadults at Barnes Lake, Stikine River, 6–7 June 2009 and Red Bluff Bay, Baranof Island, 6 June.
  • Su2010: An immature bird summered near JNU.
  • Su2011: Summering Trumpeter Swans included an immature at Juneau 3 June 2011+ , three near White Sulphur, west Chichagof Island 14 June 2011, one on Mitkof Island, 9 July 2011.
  • W2016-17: Observed in large numbers in GB. Seventy one at Bartlett Cove 15 Dec 2016 easily eclipsed previous local high counts of 50+, and a total of 55 at GUS 17 December 2016 established a new high count for the GB Bay Christmas Bird Count (CBC).
  • Su2017 Rare summer birds were found at Tracy Arm 22 June 2017 (two) and the Mendenall Forelands 23 June 2017 (five) and 3 July 2017. There are only a few Southeast Alaska breeding records away from the Chilkat River valley, where small numbers nest annually (Kessel and Gibson 1978, Johnson et al. 2008).
Tundra Swan U - U VR - Rare to Uncommon migrant, possibly more often seen in the northern half of the region. Accidental in Summer (Glacier Bay). Rare or Very Rare in winter, with small numbers occasionally spending the winter (often with Trumpeter Swans).
  • Migration timing?
  • Migration route more cutting across northern part? (re: collar/satellite tag work?)
  • Wintering birds typically with Trumpeter Swans, as in Sitka?
  • High counts of wintering birds?
  • Actually R in winter at Juneau and Haines? cf. quarterly bird reports, few mentions

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2008: Larger than normal numbers observed migrating by JNU - at least six flocks reported over a five-day period 16–20 October 2008. Max 112 in Gastineau Channel on 19 October, including two birds that had been banded in southwest Alaska July 2006 and July 2008.
  • S2012: Immature bird near GUS, from 22 June 2012 through the end of the period was very unusual. At least five summer reports in the GB area in the late 1950s and 1960s (only prior summer reports for SEAK?). This bird likely the 1st documented summer record.
  • F2012: A flock of 37 at JNU 9 September 2012 was a nice find and very early since most probably migrate over Southeast in October–November. One at KTN (Ward Lake) 11–14 November was 4th local record.
  • W2012-13: Rare in Southeast in winter. Found at several locations: two at SIT 12 December–17 February, one near JNU, 2 December–31 January, and a young bird at GUS 22 December 2012.
  • F2013: Flock of 100 flying south over JNU area 10 October 2013 - an above-average count. An immature found dead at KTN 26 November 2013 was 5th local report.
  • Sp2015: Rare in spring, singles found at GUS 5 May and near JNU, 6 May.
  • W2015-16: immature bird at Bartlett Cove 17 December was very late.
  • Sp2017: One near JNU, 1−15 May 2017 was very late. The latest date for the JNU area is 23 May 2010, and there is only one documented summer record for SEAK.
  • F2017: Single immature birds at GUS 15 October and KTN 10 November (6th local record for KTN).
  • Sp2018: Total observations were two flyovers (heard calling) at GUS 28 April and one at HNH 9 May.
Wood Duck R VR R R + Reported from several communities as far north as Haines.

Prior to around 2000 considered Casual (cf. Fa 2008 QBR, Sp 2009 QBR). In the first decade or so of the 2000s, became nearly annual and considered Rare or Very Rare in the region Fall, Winter, and Spring. Since that time, they seem to be showing up in greater numbers with increasing frequency, especially in Summer. Some individuals have been present across multiple seasons.

  • Updated overall occurrence to R F, Wi, and Sp - also Su?
  • Update Juneau to VR or even R in some seasons?
  • Hang out with Mallards elsewhere? (as in Sitka) - Moving between lakes and estuaries?
  • Increased frequency due to increasing populations and an expansion of their range (cf. Birds of the World account)?
Blue-winged Teal U U U - Y Uncommon to Rare spring migrant sometimes lingering into summer, apparently less common in the Fall migration (Rare to Very Rare?).
  • Perhaps overlooked in the fall due to similarity with much more common GWTE?
  • Abundance somewhat variable between communities - more common in the northeast?
  • Breeding records - Juneau, GB? Where else? Annually? Abundance?
  • Early Date 6 April (KTN 2014), more typically May-early June (Sp 2014 QBR)

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • F2008: One near JNU on 18 October 2008 was late
  • F2009: Rare fall migrant in SEAK, one JNU 27 August 2009 and two were found at KTN 10 September.
  • Sp2010: 14 males near GUS, 25 May 2010 provided a new high count for that location. This species is an uncommon migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). Few larger counts for SEAK, including 29 at Juneau 26 May 2002 (North American Birds 56:344).
  • Su2013: Twenty Blue-winged Teal, part of a late, large concentration of waterfowl at the Mendenhall Wetlands 2 June 2013 (DS), was a larger than average count for SEAK. Uncommon spring migrant throughout the region, usually found in pairs or groups of up to eight birds (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • F2013: Rare in the fall, one at Bartlett Cove 3 November 2013 was also quite late (new local late date by two weeks; fide NKD). There are very few Alaska records for November.
  • Sp2014: A drake at KTN 6 April was extremely early. This duck is typically a May–early June migrant (Kessel and Gibson 1978); the earliest [prior] Alaska arrival date that we know of is 14 April 2003 (North American Birds 57:389).
  • F2014: Rare in fall, two were found at GUS 22–30 September and two were at WGL 26 October; the latter were also notably late.
  • Sp2018: Reported in typical small numbers throughout the region beginning with one at Hoonah 5 May 2018. Exceptions were 10 at Sitka 11 May and 20 at the Mendenhall Wetlands 27 May.
  • F2018: Rare in fall, singles were reported at the Mendenhall Wetlands 7–9 August, at SIT on 7 October and 21 October, and near Hoonah 25 October.
Cinnamon Teal R R - - - Rare in Spring and Summer, primarily at Juneau where one or two have been reported most years (ref. Sp 2013 QBR). Several additional reports from Gustavus. Very Rare or Accidental in Spring elsewhere in the region. Very Rare in Fall, with only a few reports.
  • High counts?
  • number of records outside Juneau + GB?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • Sp2009: This species is a rare spring migrant and summer visitant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). At least two males in JNU area 29 April–30 May, a pair was found at Kake on 23–24 May, and a male was found at GUS on 26 May.
  • Sp2010: This species is a rare spring migrant and summer visitant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978) and is generally found annually in May and June. A male at JNU 28 March, and relocated on 4 April, however, was extremely early and likely provided one of the earliest records for Alaska.
  • Su2010: A drake near JNU, 6 June 2010 and 15 June 2010. This species is a rare spring migrant and summer visitant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978) and occurs annually in May and June.
  • Sp2011: A drake at JNU 15–16 May provided this season’s only report. This species is a rare spring migrant and summer visitant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • Sp2012: A drake at JNU 5–7 May provided the only report of this species, which is a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • Sp2013: Two at JNU 9 May provided the only report this spring. This species rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK, but JNU is the place to see this species as it has been reported in that area in 26 of the past 31 years since 1983!
  • F2014: Three reported at GUS 24 August included a drake with some rusty body plumage. A female or immature was also reported at JNU 28 September. Although a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK, there are very few fall reports owing to the difficulty of separating it from the extremely similar Blue-winged Teal; young birds of the species pair, in particular, may be indistinguishable from each other in the field.
  • F2015: One was photographed at Gustavus 30 September and 11 October. Although this duck is a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK, there are very few fall reports, most likely owing to the difficulty of separating it from the extremely similar Blue-winged Teal. Young birds of this species pair, in particular, may sometimes be indistinguishable from each other in the field.
  • Sp2016: Two reports this spring: a drake at Eagle Beach 27 April–3 May and two at the Chilkat River flats, near Haines, 14 May 2016.
  • Su2018: Single drake Cinnamon Teal were reported at JNU 1 June 2018 and Sitka 9 June 2018. The Cinnamon Teal is a rare spring migrant (May–June) in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978); it nests north to southern British Columbia (Campbell et al. 1990).
Northern Shoveler FC U FC R Y Fairly common in migration across most of the region (except for Northeast?). Rare in summer, with breeding reported from the northern mainland, and Rare in Winter, with some fall migrants lingering into winter, and occasional small numbers over wintering.
  • Locations/abundance of nesting?
  • Typical migration period?
  • Updated Winter to R for the region

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • W2010-11: One at SIT 26 December was late. This species is very rare in Southeast Alaska during the winter (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • Sp2012: A flock of 120 Northern Shovelers at SIT surprised observers 28 May and likely provided a new local high count.
  • Su2012: 43 on 19 July at JNU
  • W2012-13: Rare in winter, singles were at JNU 15–17 December and KTN 21 January–17 February.
  • Sp2013: 188 at JNU 6 May, one of the largest counts ever for the Juneau area. Also noteworthy was an estimated 150 at GUS 6 May 2013, which represented a new local high count.
  • Su2013: One hundred at the Mendenhall Wetlands 2 June provided a large, late count for Southeast Alaska.
  • W2013-14: Late birds included two near JNU, 7 December 2013, one at the Mendenhall Wetlands 8 December, and six at the Bartlett River 14 December. A shoveler at SIT 11 February was more unusual in mid-winter.
  • W2014-15: Five at GUS 19 December and four at JNU 14 December were late, and one at JNU 11 January was a rare mid-winter report.
  • W2015-16: At least three were present all season at the Mendenhall Wetlands, and two more were at Eagle Beach 18 January. This species is rare in mid-winter in Southeast Alaska.
  • W2016-17: Two at the Mendenhall Wetlands 12 December and another at SIT 23 December were late. A pair at the Mendenhall Wetlands 27 February 2017 was more unusual, as this species is rare in mid-winter in Southeast Alaska.
  • Sp2017: A pair at Shake’s Island, near WRG, 3 March and one at KTN in early March likely represented wintering birds, as spring migrants do not typically arrive until late April.
  • W2017-18: Late birds included three at SIT 17 December and one at GUS 16–18 December. Three to four were also observed at the Mendenhall Wetlands through mid-December, and at least two were observed there into January–February. This species is rare in mid-winter in Southeast Alaska.
Gadwall U R U R Y Uncommon migrant throughout much of the region. Apparently unusual at Skagway, and Rare in Spring at Yakutat. Rare region-wide in summer, with confirmed breeding at Juneau on at least a handful of occasions.

Rare to Uncommon in winter, with patchy distribution, and some locations regularly hosting dozens of birds. (e.g. near GUS and JNU)

  • Haines and Skagway really so different?
  • Any more recent breeding occurrences than mentioned in Kessel + Gibson?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • W2011-12: Although the Gadwall is found throughout SEAK during the winter, it is generally rare (Kessel and Gibson 1978) or locally uncommon. Forty Gadwall at GUS 19 February was a large count for anywhere in Southeast during the winter and matched an old report of 40–50 at the Excursion River 23–24 December 1958 (Wik and Streveler 1968).
  • Su2012: 11 at Mendenhall Wetlands on 3 July
  • W2012-13: 49 at JNU 11 February 2013 provided a new local high count. This species is a rare to locally uncommon winter visitant in SEAK.
  • Sp2013: 75 Gadwall, probably wintering birds, at Port Krestof, Kruzof Island, 3 March was an exceptional count. This species is a rare (Kessel and Gibson 1978) or locally uncommon migrant and winter visitant in SEAK.
  • W2013-14: Nice counts at JNU included 39 on 30 January and 48 on 3 February. A high count of 32 near GUS, 23 February was about average at that location for recent winters. This species is a rare or locally uncommon winter visitant in SEAK.
  • W2014-15: A rare or uncommon winter visitant to Southeast but larger numbers are found locally, for example, in the GB and JNU areas. This winter’s high count of 46 at the Sheep Creek delta, JNU, 9 January just about matched high counts at the same location over the past two winters.
  • W2016-17: 34 was the high count at a traditional wintering area at Sheep Creek delta, near JNU, 9 January.
  • W2017-18: A rare or uncommon winter visitant to SEAK, but larger numbers are found locally, for example, in the GB and JNU areas. A count of 59 at Juneau’s Sheep Creek Delta 4 February established a new local high count and 41 at GUS 7 January was among the larger counts for that location.
Eurasian Wigeon R VR R R - A regular but rare migrant, with most observations of only one or two birds. Rare in Spring. Casual in summer, a Very Rare to Rare in Fall and Winter, with reports from somewhere in the region most recent years.
  • Updated SE F + W to Rare
  • Update KTN F to + or VR?
  • Increasing in frequency over the past 20 years or so?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2008: Single birds found near JNU on 27 October and 29 November and near GUS, on 8 November. This species is a rare, regular migrant in SEAK.
  • W2008-09: One found at JNU on 21 January. This duck is casual in SEAK during the winter (Kessel and Gibson 1978); it has been found in the Juneau area in four of the previous 10 winters.
  • Sp2009: This species is a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). The maximum count was three near JNU on 8 April, single birds were reported there through most of April. Single birds were also found at KTN on 1 May, at WRG on 1–2 May, at SIT 11 April 2009 and 26 April, and at GUS 19 April to 23 May (maximum, two on 23 May).
  • Su2009: A male near JNU, 16 June was very late. This species is a casual summer visitant to SEAK.
  • F2009: A rare, regular migrant in SEAK, one found at JNU, 9 October, while another male there 14 October was described as a hybrid Eurasian x American wigeon.
  • W2009-10: This duck is casual in SEAK during the winter (Kessel and Gibson 1978). This was the fourth straight winter that this species was found in JNU area—a male was present all winter and a female was also present on 28 January 2010 and 26 February.
  • Sp2010: This species is a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). In JNU area, two were at the Mendenhall Wetlands 10 April–8 May and a male was at Eagle Beach 18–25 April. In GUS area, a pair was found 3 April, one of which remained through 25 May, and another bird was observed near Bartlett Cove on 26 April. Singles were also reported at SIT 14 April–1 May and near HNS 7 May.
  • W2010-11: Two drakes spent December near JNU, one of which lingered to 10 January. Another was found at Sitka 20 February. This duck has been considered casual in SEAK during the winter (Kessel and Gibson 1978) but is likely a very rare winter visitant.
  • Sp2011: Reported at GUS 27 March–20 May (maximum, four on 27 April), the JNU area 15 March–17 May (maxima: three on 24 March and 26 April), and HNS (two males on 9 May). This species is a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • W2011-12: One found near JNU, 1 February 2012. This species is a very rare winter visitant to SEAK, and most records come from this location.
  • Sp2012: One at GUS 4 March likely wintered in Southeast. Migrants were found in GUS area 21 April–1 May (maximum, two); four to five were found in the JNU area 25 April+, and singles were found at Hyder 8 May and Exchange Cove, Prince of Wales Island, 16 May.
  • F2012: An immature bird at KTN 24 August 2012 was very early. Although this species is a rare, regular migrant in Southeast, it has not been reported in fall prior to October, likely due to the difficulty of separating American and Eurasian wigeon in other-than adult male plumage. Eurasian Wigeon at Sitka 6–7 October and the Mendenhall Wetlands 17 November were found on more typical dates.
  • W2012-13:A male at the Mendhenhall Wetlands 15 December 2012–10 February provided the only report. This species is a very rare winter visitant to SEAK, and most records come from this location.
  • Sp2013: Widely reported: at least one at KTN 26 April–5 May 2013; one at WRG 19 May; one to two on many dates in JNU 7 March–12 May 2013, with maximum three on 20 April; one in the SIT area 14–21 April; one–three at GUS 21 April–6 May; one at Bartlett Cove 23 April; and one at HNS 13 May. This species is a rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • Sp2014: Rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). Four at Skagway 5 May 2014 provided a large count, and singles were noted at GUS on four dates 3–22 April, at SIT 21–26 April, and at JNU 25 April.
  • F2014: Up to four made for a good showing in GUS area this fall (up to four birds 3–25 November 2014) but the species went unreported elsewhere in Southeast.
  • W2014-15: Rare in winter, singles were reported at GB 13 December and SIT 7 January.
  • Sp2015: A rare, regular spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978), and they were widely reported this spring: singles at GUS 8 April−24 May 2015 (maximum two on 3 May), singles in the JNU area 29 April−16 May (maximum two 5 May), one at SGY 29 April, and one at HNS 2−3 May. Two males at JNU 22 April 2015 were thought to be hybrid Eurasian × American wigeon.
  • W2015-16: Rare in winter, a drake was observed at the Mendenhall Wetlands, near JNU, 14−15 January.
  • Sp2016: Reports included three at GUS 8 April, followed by one or two there on six other dates through 29 April, and singles near JNU, 2−3 April, Eagle Beach, near JNU, 19−30 April, SGY 16 April, and SIT 4 May.
  • F2016: Reported at GUS 22 October 2016 (three) and SIT 19 October (male).
  • W2016-17: Reports included a female at SIT all winter (first observed last fall), a male at SIT from mid-winter through the end of the period, one at the Mendenhall Wetlands all winter, and one at HNH 14 February.
  • Sp2017: Two that wintered at SIT were reported through at least 8−10 April. A male that wintered at the Mendenhall Wetlands was present to at least late March, and at least three were reported in JNU area 23 April−13 May. Two found at GUS 24 March, followed by at least one there 7 April, 7 May, and 17 May . Finally, a male was reported at the Stikine River mouth 29 April
  • F2017: Sightings included a female at SIT 12 November, likely the same bird that wintered at that site the previous winter. Singles were also reported at JNU 9 October and GUS 28 November. This species is a rare migrant and winter visitant to SEAK.
  • W2017-18: Rare in winter, single Eurasian Wigeon were reported at SIT (a female all winter) and the Mendenhall Wetlands 21–15 February.
  • Sp2018: Wintering birds were last observed at JNU 11 March and Sitka 29 March 2018. Migrants were reported in typical very small numbers 4 April– 19 May (SIT, HNS, SGY, KTN, GUS, JNU); maximum was three at GUS 29 April.
  • Su2018: A drake at GUS 3 June 2018 was late. This species is a casual summer visitant to SEAK.
  • F2018: Sightings included singles at CRG 24 October, HNH 30 October, and GUS 7–15 November, and two at PBG 13 November. This species is a rare migrant and winter visitant to SEAK.
American Wigeon C U C U Y Common migrant, Rare to Uncommon in other seasons. Nesting known from around Juneau (Accidental) and Yakutat (Uncommon).

Highest counts are typically observed near Gustavus or Juneau. Appears to be more commo in the northern part of the region in summer.

  • other references for Yakutat nesting?
  • Nesting in northern Lynn Canal?
  • Peak/Typical migration timing?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2012: A probable American Wigeon × Northern Pintail hybrid returned to Petersburg harbor for its 3rd consecutive year 29 October 2012+.
  • F2013: Estimated 800 at the Mendenhall Wetlands 15 October provided one of the highest counts ever for the Juneau area.
  • F2017: 1200 at GUS on 9 October
  • W2017-18: Estimated 535 at the Mendenhall Wetlands 23 February established a new mid-winter maximum for JNU area.
Mallard C C C C Y Common throughout the region year-round, with both year-round residents and migrants or wintering birds present seasonally.

Found on lakes, rivers, and in estuaries or along ocean shorelines (though stays with open water in the winter).

  • Note on feral birds? Present in Sitka, but not sure about elsewhere - do they make up the bulk of the summer birds?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • W2012-13: Large concentrations included 1,500 at Neka Bay 7 December and 2,500 at the Mendenhall Wetlands 15 December.
  • F2017: High counts of waterfowl at Gustavus 9 October 2017 included 1300 Mallards
  • W2017-18: 1700 tallied on the Gustavus CBC 16 December was nearly 400 more than the previous high for that location.
American Black Duck + - - + - Accidental from Gustavus in Winter (and Spring?) where a male was reported in multiple winters starting in 1969.

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • None
Northern Pintail C U C U Y Fairly Common to Common migrant in Spring and Fall. In summer absent in Ketchikan (more generally in the south?), and Uncommon to Fairly Common in the north. Nesting has been documented on occasion. Uncommon to Rare in winter.
  • Summer occurrence - absent elsewhere in the south? Or something particular about habitat available in KTN?
  • Is apparent N-S summer abundance gradient real?
  • Typical migration period end of March - late May?
  • Wintering numbers small, as in KTN and SIT, or more elsewhere?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Su2012: Present in larger-than-average numbers on the Mendenhall Wetlands with high count of 33 on 30 June 2012
  • F2012: 400 at the Mendenhall Wetlands at the peak of migration 22 August was twice the previous high count for that location.
  • W2012-13: 18 near JNU 27 February was a high winter count for Southeast.
  • F2017: 400 was a nice high count at GUS 9 October
Green-winged Teal C U C U Y Common migrant in Spring and Fall. Uncommon to Common in the north and Rare in the south during summer. Nesting has been reported throughout, but apparently more common in the north. Uncommon to Rare in winter, except for far northern Lynn Canal and Yakutat, where they are absent.

Asian subspecies is Very Rare migrant and winter resident.

  • Nesting occurrence/abundance refined - check Mainland Rivers paper?
  • N-S gradient of occurrence due to latitude or habitat in listed communities?
  • Typical migration dates April-May; August-October?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • Sp2009: A Eurasian Green-winged Teal was reported at SIT on 25 April, and an apparent intergrade Eurasian x American Green-winged Teal was found at JNU on 27 April. The Eurasian form Anas crecca crecca breeds in the Aleutian Islands (Gibson and Kessel 1997) and is a rare, regular winter visitant along the Pacific Coast south of Alaska (Campbell et al. 1990a, Marshall et al. 2003).
  • Sp2010: Single drake Eurasian Green-winged Teal were found near JNU 12–17 April and Eagle Beach 19 April 2010.
  • Sp2011:A drake Eurasian Green-winged Teal at KTN 9 May 2011 provided the 2nd local record. The Eurasian subspecies (nominate crecca) is an uncommon to fairly common resident in the Aleutian Islands (Gibson and Byrd 2007) and is a rare, regular migrant and winter visitant along the Pacific Coast south of Alaska (Campbell et al. 1990a, Marshall et al. 2003, Wahl et al. 2005, Hamilton et al. 2007).
  • Su2012: Dabbling ducks were present in larger-than-average numbers on the Mendenhall Wetlands this summer, including high counts of Green winged Teal (45 on 8 July 2012).
  • Su2014: A drake Eurasian Green-winged Teal was found at GUS 13 April. Eurasian subspecies crecca, which breeds in the Aleutian Islands (Gibson and Byrd 2007), is a rare, regular migrant and winter visitant along the Pacific Coast (Campbell et al. 1990a, Marshall et al. 2003).
  • W2016-17: Among the Green-winged Teal at Gustavus 1 February 2017 were a single Eurasian Green-winged Teal, Anas crecca crecca, and three intergrade A. c. crecca × carolinensis.
  • F2017: Nice high counts of waterfowl at Gustavus 9 October 2017 included 300 Green-winged Teal
  • Sp2018: A Eurasian Green-winged Teal (subspecies crecca) was picked out of the teal at GUS on 29 April. This subspecies nests in the Aleutian Islands (Gibson and Byrd 2007) and is a rare, regular migrant and winter visitant along the eastern Pacific Coast (Campbell et al. 1990a, Marshall et al. 2003)
Canvasback R VR R R - Rare to Very Rare migrant, more often seen in the Fall than Spring. Usually only small numbers (<5) observed at any particular location. Very Rare in Summer. Although no more than Very Rare at any single location, in many years one or two have been reported from somewhere in the region.

Apparently less common in the southern parts of the region than the north.

  • N-S gradient of abundance - real or artifact of reporting locations?
  • Really Uncommon in Haines during migration? cf. Skagway Ir
  • Typical fall migration arrival? Based on Sitka, seems they tend to be October or later
  • Updated W to R from VR

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2008: This species is a rare fall migrant in SEAK. Near JNU, where small numbers of this species are regularly found, two males were present on 2 October, five on 17 and 20 October, and one was there on 20 November 2008. Another male was found at SIT on 8 November.
  • W2008-09: Late Canvasbacks were found at SIT on 13 December and JNU on 20 December. This species has not been reported annually during the winter in SEAK.
  • Sp2009: Although small numbers of migrants found regularly around JNU, seven 29 April was a large count for the area.
  • F2009: Typical small numbers of this rare fall migrant were found at JNU, with four 15 September the earliest and maximum. A single male was also found at SIT21–29 October.
  • W2009-10: This species has not been reported annually during the winter in SEAK, so one at JNU from late December through the end of the period was noteworthy.
  • Sp2010: JNU’s wintering bird last noted 21 March. Small numbers of migrants observed in northern SEAK between 21 April 2010 (two at JNU) and 17 May (one at GUS). Nine flying north in GB 5 May and eight at HNS 7 May were large counts for SEAK, where this species is typically a rare migrant (Kessel and Gibson 1978). In addition, two were found at Mitkof Island 16 May.
  • Su2010: A casual or very rare summer visitant to SEAK, so singles in the JNU area at the Mendenhall Wetlands 5 July 2010 (female) and Point Bridget S.P. 8 July (male) were noteworthy.
  • F2010: One at GUS 31 October was joined by a second bird 12 November and at least two were also found at SIT 28 September–18 October. Maximum at JNU was 10 on 27–30 October. This duck is a rare fall migrant in southeast Alaska (Kessel and Gibson 1978), and it occurs annually in the JNU area.
  • W2010-11: Two were found at near GUS, 15 December. In the JNU area, one was found 16 December 2010 (PMS), followed by two 21 December. Although this species has been considered casual during the winter in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978), it has been reported over the past four winters and is likely a very rare winter visitant.
  • Sp2011: Few reports this spring—one at GUS 14 May and two there 20–22 May, and one at JNU 21 May. This species is typically a rare migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • F2011: Reported at GUS 14–31 October, including a maximum of nine on the last date, and at JNU, a single bird 7–20 October.
  • Sp2012: A rare migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). It has been reported most frequently in the JNU area, where up to three birds 25 April–20 May provided the only reports this spring.
  • Su2012: At least two near JNU, 6–29 June provided very rare summer reports for SEAK.
  • F2012: SIT (one, 21 October) and JNU (several, 22 September–12 November). This duck is a rare fall migrant in southeast Alaska (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • Sp2013: More widely reported than usual this spring: at least three were found in the JNU area 13 March–23 May, one–two at GUS 17 April–10 May, six in the HNS area 13 May, two at SGY 16 May, and two in the Stikine River area 24 May. The Canvasback is a rare migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • F2013: Singles at GUS 28 September–5 October and 7 October and at the Mendenhall Wetlands 3 November provided the only reports this fall.
  • Sp2014: A rare migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). Singles at GUS 3 May and 14 May and JNU 19 April provided the only reports.
  • F2014: Sightings included up to three in the JNU area during October and one at SIT 20 October.
  • W2014-15: One at GUS 11–12 December followed by two there 28 January provided the only reports of this rare winter visitant.
  • Sp2015: Reported in typical small numbers at HNS (four, 16 April; one, 3 May), GUS (one, 26 April−1 May), and JNU (three, 4−8 May; five, 4 May; one, 9 May).
  • Su2015: A casual or very rare summer visitant to SEAK, so one near JNU, 3−14 June was noteworthy.
  • F2015: Singles at GUS 29 and 30 September were followed by two 18 October. Another was found at WRG 18−19 November.
  • W2015-16: One near SIT in early December stayed for nearly a month.
  • Sp2016: Reported in ones-twos in the JNU area 11–28 May, with a maximum of three at the Mendenhall Wetlands 14 May.
  • F2016: Found at three locations: one at SIT 6−22 October, one at the Stikine River delta 6 November, and up to six at GUS 9−14 November.
  • Sp2017: Reported only at GUS: one on 28 April, followed by two on 1 May and four on 3 May.
  • F2017: Sightings included two at GUS 3–8 October, two at Neka Bay, Chichagof Island, 19 October, and singles at SIT 17–20 November and JNU 21 October–6 November.
  • W2017-18: Singles (possibly the same bird) were observed in the JNU area at Twin Lakes 10–12 December 2017 and the Mendenhall Wetlands 21–25 February. Another was observed at Bartlett Cove, GB, 5 December.
  • Sp2018: One at SIT 8–31 May, one at SGY 29 April, singles at the Mendenhall Wetlands 7 April and 16 May.
  • F2018: Sightings included a pair at Auke Bay 29 September, one at Twin Lakes, JNU, 15 November 2018+, two at Craig 24 October, two at HNH, 25 October, and four at GUS 27 October, followed by one–two there through 17 November.
Redhead R VR R VR Y Rare migrant, Very Rare in Summer and Winter. Generally found only in small numbers.

At least one nesting record from Juneau.

  • More often seen in Fall than Spring? - change Sp to VR?
  • N-S gradient to sightings (more common from Juneau to upper Lynn Canal?
  • details of Juneau breeding record?

SEAK QBR Mentiions:

  • F2008: Small numbers were present through most of October at the Mendenhall Wetlands, near JNU, with maximum five on 20 October.
  • Sp2009: Rare spring migrant in SEAK, one was at JNU on 26 April, where they are regularly found in very small numbers, and one or two were found at GUS 7–21 May.
  • Sp2010: This species is a rare spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978). Five birds near GUS 10 May 2010 and five east of the GUS airport 20 May 2010. Very small numbers were also found in the JNU area 29 April– 22 May, with a maximum of six at Auke Lake 29 April.
  • F2010: One at JNU 6–8 November 2010 was the only report of the season. This duck is a very rare fall migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978), and it occurs annually in the JNU area.
  • Sp2011: Singles reported at JNU 16 April 2011 and near HNS 9 May. This species is a rare spring migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • F2011: One at JNU 26 November only report
  • Sp2012: Widely reported in May, including three at north of JNU, 3 May, three at SGY 3 May, a pair at the mouth of North Arm, Stikine River, 4–6 May, three at GUS 8–9 May, and one at JNU’s Mendenhall Wetlands 24 May.
  • Su2012: A female at Swan Lake, SIT, 18–20 June provided a very rare summer record for SEAK.
  • Sp2014: Up to six at SGY 5 May and at least three in the JNU area 16–18 May.
  • Sp2015: At Skagway (one, 29 April), GUS (up to two, 7−12 May), and JNU (up to three, 4−11 May). This
  • Su2015: A casual or very rare summer visitant—a drake was observed at the Mendenhall Wetlands, near JNU, 14 June and 17 June.
  • F2015: One near JNU 28 October was the only report.
  • W2015-16: Singles were found at Thimbleberry Lake, near SIT, 16 December 2015+ and at the Mendenhall Wetlands 28 December 2015−3 January. This species is a rare winter visitant to SEAK.
  • Sp2016: Two males at KTN 11 May, which provided only the third local report. One at SIT 9–20 April. More typical were up to four males at Eagle Beach 27 April−5 May and small numbers in the Mendenhall Forelands and Wetlands 20 May−6 June 2016+, including maximum three on 26 May and 3−6 June.
  • Su2016: Late birds included up to five at GUS Lake 1−12 June and up to three in the Mendenhall Forelands through 6 June. This species is a very rare summer visitant to SEAK.
  • F2016: One at JNU’s Twin Lakes 10−12 October provided the season’s only report.
  • Sp2017: One at the Mendenhall Wetlands 11−13 May and two at GUS 1−7 May.
  • Su2017: Two at the Mendenhall Wetlands through 23 June, one of which was present through 5 July. Another was found at GUS 25 July. This species is a very rare summer visitant to SEAK.
  • F2017: One at GUS 21–24 October provided the season’s only report.
  • Sp2018: Pair at SIT 29–31 May, one at HNH 15–22 May (1st local record), one at GUS 21 May, and two to four reported on three dates in the JNU area 6 April–10 May.
  • Su2018: Late birds included a pair at SIT through the first week of June and single males at the Mendenhall Forelands 7–14 June and GUS 9–15 June.
  • F2018: A pair at GUS 7 October 2018 was only report
Ring-necked Duck U R U R Y Uncommon migrant and Rare in Summer and Winter, throughout much of the region. Exceptions are Yakutat, where Common from Spring through Fall, absent in Winter, and Skagway, where Rare Spring through Fall.

Nesting is apparently Common around Yakutat, and Rare or undocumented elsewhere.

This species is primarily on freshwater lakes and ponds.

  • confirm the C in Yakutat and R in Skagway
  • Migration dates and/or typical numbers?
  • How many places have confirmed nesting?
  • FC migrant in Glacier Bay - genuinely more abundant there, or just difference of classification choice for similar abundance?
  • More common in fall/winter recent decades? Sitka records would suggest so for this area, at least - in recent years, typical numbers prior to Swan Lake freezing are 20-30, with higher counts not unusual, max was ~70
  • F2008: 25 at SIT on 25 November was larger than average for SEAK.
  • Sp2009: Small numbers of this uncommon migrant were found throughout the region, with a maximum count of 17 birds at GUS on 7 May.
  • Su2009: 14 at Barnes Lake, Stikine River, 7 June was a large count at a location where this species has nested (Kessel and Gibson 1978). Nine were also found in the Mendenhall forelands, near JNU, on 28 June and three were reported at Swan Lake, SIT, 12 June. This species is a rare [or locally uncommon] summer visitant and very rare breeder in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978)
  • F2009: Maximum counts of this uncommon species came from two favored locations: 30 at JNU’s Twin Lakes 17 November and 25 at SIT's Swan Lake 6 and 17 November. At least 10 at WRG from late October through the end of the period was also a nice count.
  • W2009-10: Normal small numbers were reported this winter, with a maximum count of 32 at SIT 15 February.
  • Sp2010: 44 Ring-necked Ducks at the Mendenhall Wetlands 6 May provided a nice high count for SEAK, where the species is typically uncommon.
  • Su2010: A female with three downy chicks (perhaps a week old) was found at Norton Lake, on JNU’s Mendenhall Forelands, 19 July. This species is a rare [or locally uncommon] summer visitant and very rare breeder in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • F2010: Found in larger-than-average numbers in the JNU area from mid-October to early November, including a maximum count of 125 at Twin Lakes 18 October that far exceeded the previous local high count.
  • Su2011: Nesting again documented in the JNU area with broods at Norton Lake 2 July (female with five downy chicks) and Moraine Lake 19 July (female with seven downy chicks). Two broods were also found at Hill Lake, Mitkof Island, 10 July (females with one chick and two chicks). This species is a locally uncommon summer visitant and rare breeder in SEAK.
  • Sp2012: Thirty-five Ring-necked Ducks at GUS 8 May represented a larger-than-average count for SEAK.
  • F2012: A brood of Ring-necked Ducks (five ducklings and a hen) at Moose Lake 18– 19 August added to nest records in the JNU area. Maximum counts were made at the usual locations later in mid-October, including 53 at JNU’s Twin Lakes 17 October and 20 at SIT’s Swan Lake 21 October.
  • Sp2013: 88 on a marsh near mile 24 in the Chilkat Valley 13 May was exceptional and represented one of the largest counts ever for Southeast.
  • W2013-14: Normal small numbers were reported in most locations this winter. A flock of 45 at SIT 10 January provided a new local high count.
  • F2014: High counts at favored sites included 60 at SIT’s Swan Lake 19–20 October, 70 at Bartlett Lake, near GUS, 6–20 November, and 88 at Twin Lakes, near JNU, 12 October.
  • Su2015: Breeding was again nicely documented in the JNU area 17 June and 25 June.
  • F2016: An estimated 120 at Bartlett Lake, near GUS, 21 October was among the highest counts ever for SEAK.
  • F2017: A flock of 113 at Bartlett Lake, near GUS, 23 October was the 2nd largest number recorded at that location and among the largest SEAK counts of this species, which is uncommon throughout most of the region.
Tufted Duck + - + + - Accidental in Fall, Winter, and Spring, with one record in each season.
  • Apparently three records from the region - missing a Fall record from Petersburg?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • Sp2011 A drake was a nice find amongst 1,000 Surf Scoters and other waterfowl gathered to feed on spawning Eulachon at Mud Bay, near HNS, 9 May 2011. There were only two prior SEAK records of this Eurasian species; although it is a rare to fairly common spring migrant in the western Aleutians (Gibson and Byrd 2007), it is a rare, irregular winter visitant along the Pacific Coast south of Alaska (Campbell et al. 1990a, Marshall et al. 2003, Wahl et al. 2005, Hamilton et al. 2007).
Greater Scaup C U C FC Y Common migrant and Fairly Common winter resident on freshwater lakes, and shallow bays and estuaries. Rare in summer, with two records of nesting (near Sitka, 1896 and on Prince of Wales Island, 1977 - Birds of the World account).
  • Should be R in Summer region-wide?
  • high counts?
  • Typical migration timing?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • F2017: Nice waterfowl counts at GUS including 400 GRSC (among other things)
Lesser Scaup FC R FC R Y Uncommon or Fairly Common migrant, Rare to Uncommon in winter. Rare in summer, mostly from the northern mainland where nesting has been documented.
  • Region wide FC migrant, though most locales have no more than U?
  • Difficulty distinguishing this species from the more common Greater Scaup may mean this species is somewhat under reported?
  • Breeding frequency and extent?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2016: Count of 93 at JNU, second largest local count ever
Steller's Eider VR + VR VR - Very Rare in Fall, Winter and Spring. Accidental in Summer. Records from Sitka (though not since the 1980s), Glacier Bay (spring 2014), and Juneau (most recently Spring 2005 [1]). Around 15 records (QBR Spring 2014) total.
  • List records?
  • Any other record locales besides the three listed?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Sp2014: Female 28 April-9 May was first Gustavus record. Casual in Southeast Alaska with around 15 records.
King Eider VR + + VR - Casual in Southeast from Glacier Bay, Juneau, and Petersburg. Nearly 30(?) records from the region, most from Gustavus/Glacier Bay and Juneau in winter and spring (QBR Spr 2018 + subsequent e-bird). Most recently from Juneau December 2023 [2]
  • list of records?
  • high counts? - 4 @ Juneau [3]

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Sp2010: subadult male near Juneau 8-19 March 2010. Casual in SEAK, primarily winter and spring with most records from near Juneau. Unidentified eider in GB 23 May thought to be this species also.
  • W2011-2012: Female at Gustavus 24 December was first local winter record.
  • W2014-2015: Female near Juneau; 15 or so records from SEAK, mostly from near Juneau
  • Sp2015: Overwintering bird at Juneau last seen 22 March
  • W2017-2018: Immature male at Gustavus 19-25 February. About 25 records in Southeast nearly all from winter and spring
  • Sp2018: Three separate birds seen in Gustavus area; adult male and two immature males. More than 25 Southeast Alaska reports
Common Eider VR VR VR VR Y Formerly nested at Glacier Bay, but not in recent years. Only a couple of reports outside of Glacier Bay.
  • Sight only reportt from offshore of Sitka May 2013
  • May 2006 near Skagway waterfront [4]
  • More on occurrence around Glacier Bay? When was last nesting reported?
  • Change summer records for region to +?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • none
Harlequin Duck FC FC FC FC Y Fairly Common to Common year-round resident, primarily found along rocky saltwater shorelines. Nesting probably occurs through most of the region on suitable fast moving streams, with non-breeders remaining on salt water.
  • Regional list has FC year-round, but most locales have C in migration and winter
  • More abundant on outer coast? seasonally, or year round?
  • In Sitka, at least - the non-breeding summer birds seem to move to more exposed shorelines (i.e., away from the road system) - is this true elsewhere?
  • Documented extent of nesting?
  • Highest counts at herring spawning?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • W2017-2018: largest winter count for Juneau area (160 at Auke Bay, 25 Feb 2018).
Surf Scoter C FC C C - Common Fall, Winter, and Spring on nearshore marine waters throughout most of the region. In Summer, Fairly Common with non-breeding birds remaining on salt water.

Herring spawning locations are important stopping locations in Spring [5], and tens of thousands may be observed at times.

Likewise, in late Summer, males may gather during the molt, and many thousands may be found (e.g., Seymour Canal [6]).

  • Greater abundance in inside waters?
  • Greater numbers in Spring rather than Fall?
  • Summer birds are non-breeders?
  • Breeding confirmed near Yakutat, change regional Breeding status?
  • Skagway is only place with R in winter

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Sp2011: Large numbers near JNU including 30,000 on 8-9 May at Eagle Beach and 10,000 Sheep Creek delta on 9 May; At KTN 8100 observed flying north over 4.5 hour period on 1 May.
  • Sp2012: Largest concentrations found at herring spawning areas. 6500 near KTN on 22 April; 7500 near JNU on 3 May. These counts did not approach previous high counts at those locations.
White-winged Scoter C FC C C - Common Fall, Winter and Spring, and Uncommon to Fairly Common in Summer.

Summering birds through most of the region are non-breeders, though (apparently) a Rare breeder near Yakutat.

Almost exclusively found on salt water.

  • Winter C in HNS, absent in SKG?
  • Breeding at Yakutat? Not showing that on BoW map

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • none
Black Scoter U R U U - Uncommon Fall, Winter, and Spring. Rare in Summer across most of the region, though Rare at best in upper Lynn Canal.

Found in nearshore salt water environments, in most locations in relatively small numbers (especially compared to other scoter species).

  • Consistently more abundant around Yakutat?
  • Difference between Haines and Skagway abundance reflect actual differences, or the way folks have described similar abundance at the two locations?
  • Possibly wintering in the region in areas not often visited? Apparently more abundant both to the south and west (per BoW) - curious about apparent scarcity in SEAK.

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • F2009: Flock of 400 near Pleasant Island, Icy Strait on 1 Sept. Most had departed the next day. Very large concentration for SEAK and unusually early. Typical arrival is early October.
  • W2009-2010: New local high count at GUS with 420 on 6 February. JNU had 45 on 8 Feb second largest local count by observer.
  • W2010-2011: New local high count at GUS with 478 on 17 December
  • W2013-2014: Est. 450 near GUS on 27 Feb. In recent years, GUS area has provided highest winter counts of this species.
Long-tailed Duck FC R FC C Y Fairly Common to Common migrant and winter resident throughout most of the region. Typically arriving in October and departing in late April or May.

Highest winter numbers are found in Wrangell Narrows and possibly Glacier Bay.

Very Rare or Rare in summer, except in Glacier Bay, where small numbers of non-breeders are typically observed each year.

  • Summer abundance between different areas is inconsistent - reflect true differences? esp Skagway's U.
  • Summer GB have any relationship to NW BC breeding birds?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • W2008-09: Peak count on KTN waterfront, where large numbers typically congregate, was about average with a maximum of 600 on 14 and 30 January.
  • Sp2009: Still present in the “thousands” at Glacier Bay 11–18 May, and small numbers lingered through the end of the period. This species typically departs most wintering areas in SEAK by mid to late April.
  • Su2009: One reported at Glacier Bay 22 June where small numbers had lingered through the end of May. This species is a very rare summer visitant in SEAK.
  • F2009: One at SIT 6 September was well ahead of normal October arrival time for this species.
  • Su2011: Non-breeding birds were found in GB, where they appear to occur annually in summer, including maximum counts of four on 4 June (in the west arm) and 20 July (in the east arm). Up to two Long-tailed Ducks were also found near JNU, 12 June–29 July.
  • W2011-12: High counts in Wrangell Narrows, Petersburg, included 1100 on 6 February and 1400 on 29 February, and a maximum count of 2400 on 20 February. Wrangell Narrows has long been known as a favorite wintering site for this species; e.g., Ira N. Gabrielson estimated 10,000 Long-tailed Ducks in Wrangell Narrows 24 February 1944 (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959).
  • Su2012: Typical small numbers of were observed in GB this summer, with high counts of 50 on 8 June and 32 on 14 June; smaller numbers lingered into July at Tarr Inlet (latest one on 18 July). This species is very rare elsewhere in SEAK during the summer.
  • W2012-13: Maximum winter count of 70 Long-tailed Ducks on the KTN waterfront 15 December represented the poorest showing at that location in more than 20 years.
  • W2013-14: What were considered normal counts in Wrangell narrows included 3200 on 5 February and 3500 on 22 February. Peak numbers on the KTN waterfront reached 650 on 24 January.
  • Su2014: Up to two at JNU 1–2 June 2014 were late but not unexpected, as this species is a rare non-breeding visitant in Southeast (particularly in the Glacier Bay area).
  • F2014: Estimated 6,000 Long-tailed Ducks (“in a long noisy line”) were in the vicinity of South Marble and Leland islands in Glacier Bay 11–12 November - certainly one of the largest counts of this species in Southeast away from Wrangell Narrows.
  • W2014-15: 3,000 near Flap Jack Island, Beardslee Islands, GB 18–19 February. A local fisherman indicated that he often saw Long-tailed Ducks “in huge rafts” in that area in past winters as well.
  • Su2016: One was reported at Skagway 20 June 2016. This species is a rare summer visitant in Southeast, but non-breeders occur annually in summer in the GB area.
Bufflehead C VR C C - Common migrant and winter resident. Rare in the northern part of the region, and absent in the southern part in the summer. Found on nearshore salt water habitats, and also regularly seen on lakes, ponds, and streams.

Reported to be a Rare nester in the vicinity of Yakutat, elsewhere breeding is not known to occur.

  • Check U for Summer in SGY
  • Breeding for Yakutat, update regional to Y?
  • Migration timing? Apparently pretty consistent in Sitka over the years, also elsewhere?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • None
Common Goldeneye FC R FC FC Y Fairly Common migrant and winter resident across most of the region. Very Rare in summer in the southern half becoming Rare, Uncommon in the north, and Fairly Common at Yakutat.

Nesting has been documented on the mainland. The primary nesting range is on the interior side of the coast mountains.

  • Summer abundance for different areas vary significantly - does this accurately reflect what's actually happening? If so, does this suggest more breeding taking place, or are these non-breeding birds?
  • Less abundant on outer coast in winter? Never see more than a dozen or so combined around Sitka along road system. Apparently more common elsewhere?
  • Generally more common in the north?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Sp2011: A surprising number were observed at an evening goldeneye roost in early spring near JNU, including a maximum of 425 on 4 April.
Barrow's Goldeneye C U C C Y Common migrant and winter resident across the region. Uncommon to Rare in Summer (C at Yakutat).

Probably a Rare breeder except for Glacier Bay and Yakutat, where they are Uncommon (or Common?).

  • Yakutat summer and breeding abundance correct?
  • Additional notes on nesting?
  • Habitat notes? Apart from summer, mostly salt water+estuaries? How often on lakes/freshwater in the winter?

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Su2010: A rare summer visitant in the KTN area, a female with two downy chicks on a small muskeg pond 22 June provided the first confirmed local nesting record.
  • Su2011: A female with seven chicks at a small muskeg pond near KTN 15 June provided only the 2nd local nesting record. A female with two chicks was also found at Crane Lake, Mitkof Island, 10 July. This species’ status as a breeder in southern Southeast Alaska is not well known.
  • F2012: The is a common migrant and winter visitant throughout Southeast Alaska (Gabrielson and Lincoln 1959); however, a count of 640 Barrow’s at an evening roost at Auke Lake 1 November was among the largest counts ever for JNU area, most of which have occurred during late fall (October– November).
  • Su2012: One with four downy chicks at Perseverance Lake 22 June provided the 3rd documented nesting in as many years at KTN. Another goldeneye brood, not identified to species, near Mendenhall Lake 30 May (female with a dozen small chicks; SG) was also a rare find for the JNU area.
  • Su2015: A female with chicks at Ratz Pass 14 June likely provided the first nesting record for Prince of Wales Island. The status of this species as a breeder is not well known over much of SEAK, and it was not known to nest in the Alexander Archipelago (Gibson et al. 1987) until recently documented to do so at Revillagigedo and Mitkof islands (see North Am. Birds 64:632, 65:672, and 66:717).
  • Su2016: A female with downy chicks was found at Beaver Lake, near SIT, probably the 2nd year in a row the species has nested there. The breeding status of this species is not well known over much of Southeast Alaska, and it was not known to nest in the Alexander Archipelago (Gibson et al. 1987) until recently [note from MG: apparently older records of goldeneyes nesting near Sitka, species not noted, but I suspect probably BAGO].
  • Su2017: An unattended chick at Beaver Lake, near SIT, 20 July marked the 3rd consecutive year this species nested there.
  • Su2018: A female with chicks at Ward Lake 4 August established the 4th local nesting record for the KTN area, all since 2010.
Hooded Merganser U R U U Y Uncommon migrant and winter resident across the southern half of the region. Decreasing in abundance to the north. Rare resident and Rare to Very Rare breeder in summer.
  • Really such a big difference in occurrence between Haines and Skagway?
  • How many nesting records?

The northern edge of the expected range for this species does not extend beyond Southeast Alaska.

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • Su2010: A few were observed on near JNU, all summer and a female was observed with one chick there late in the summer. This duck is an uncommon resident and breeder in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • W2010-11: Observers at both GUS and SIT commented on recent scarcity. One was found at GUS 19 February, where the species has “become increasingly rare here in recent years”. Only one was found at Sitka 20 February, where the species has been seldom seen over the last four winters.
  • W2011-12: GUS birders said it was a "good winter", including a maximum of 10 on 20 February. The is an uncommon winter visitant throughout SEAK.
  • Su2016: A female with two chicks was observed 2 June near Juneau, where this species is a rare breeder. This species has been considered an uncommon resident and breeder in SEAK; most breeding records have been from mainland sites.
Common Merganser C FC C FC Y Fairly Common to Common year-round resident throughout the region. Fairly Common breeder.

Found on freshwater and salt water, though more abundant on salt water in the winter.

SEAK QBR Mentions

  • W2010-11: One of the most numerous and widespread wintering ducks in SEAK, much larger than average numbers wintered on the KTN waterfront. 1,685 recorded on the KTN CBC 18 December nearly doubled the previous local CBC total.
  • F2011: One of the most numerous waterfowl in SEAK. More abundant than usual in the KTN area this fall, as indicated by a maximum count of 1,480 on the immediate waterfront 19 November.
Red-breasted Merganser FC U FC FC Y Fairly Common to Common migrant and winter resident throughout the region. Uncommon to Rare in summer along Lynn Canal. Uncommon to Common in summer from Glacier Bay to Yakutat, where they are also known to nest. Rare to Casual in the southern part of the region in summer.
  • Rare in Skagway vs Uncommon in Haines - real difference in abundance?
  • BoW map suggests breeding could be expected across northern third of SEAK


SEAK QBR Mentions

  • W2016-17: Reportedly more widespread and regular than normal in the JNU area maximum was 100 at Auke Bay on 31 January. An estimated 110 at KTN 26 February nearly tripled the previous local winter high count.
Ruddy Duck + + VR + - Casual in the region, with scattered reports from all seasons, though most are from the fall (cf several QBR). Over 20 records.
  • Full list of records?
  • Juneau VR in Spring - should SEAK be same?
  • High count of two in Sitka, any equal or higher counts?

SEAK QBR Mentions:

  • F2008: Two were at JNU on 20 October. This species is a casual fall migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • F2010: Singles found at JNU 20 October and SIT 17–20 November 2010 (2nd local record). This species is a casual migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978), with most records from the period October– November.
  • Sp2010: Two drakes in JNU’s Mendenhall Glacier Forelands, 29–30 May were a very rare find. This species is a casual migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978); there are only a few prior spring reports as most Southeast records are from the fall.
  • Sp2012: Two Ruddy Ducks at SIT, 30 May 2012+ provided a 3rd local record. This species is a casual migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978).
  • Su2012: Last spring's bird at SIT lingered through 8 June.
  • F2015: One near GUS, 15 November. This species is a casual migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978); there are more than 20 reports, most from late fall.
  • F2016: One near GUS, 21 October was still present 13 November—the 2nd consecutive year at that location. This species is a casual migrant in SEAK (Kessel and Gibson 1978); there are now more than 20 reports, most of which are from late fall.
  • W2017-18: One was observed at Sitka 13 December–25 January. It spent most of its time at Swan Lake; however, it moved to the nearby Indian River estuary during the time the lake was frozen in early January. This species is casual in SEAK, primarily as a late-fall migrant, and there are few mid-winter Alaska reports.