UPDATE: The 2025 Willmar Area Christmas Bird Count has made headlines for both a significant new sighting and a shocking decline in a familiar species. Veteran birder Joel Schmidt confirmed the first-ever sighting of common ravens in this annual count on December 20, marking a pivotal moment in local birdwatching history.
This year’s count, which celebrates its 64th anniversary, was conducted under the auspices of the National Audubon Society and involved 26 participants. Participants logged an impressive 3,291 individual birds across 51 different species, exceeding the historical average of 36 species. However, the count also revealed a concerning trend: only one Canada goose was recorded, a stark drop from 1,121 last year and 4,597 two years ago.
The dramatic decline in Canada geese is attributed to limited open water following a recent cold snap, despite relatively mild conditions on count day, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Schmidt and co-organizer Joel Halbritter noted that this year’s conditions likely impacted waterfowl visibility, but participants still managed to spot 131 trumpeter swans, 42 mallards, and other notable birds.
The most numerous species this year were cedar waxwings, with a remarkable count of 739, followed closely by black-eyed juncos at 456. Participants also observed 11 eastern bluebirds, 16 red-winged blackbirds, and 60 American robins, which are typically not seen in winter months.
Despite the excitement of new species, the count was marked by sadness as longtime participant Dave Lais passed away just two days before the event. Lais, who was 87, had a long history in conservation and birdwatching, serving as the manager of Sibley State Park for nearly three decades. He was known for his dedication to the outdoors and community, including hosting coffee gatherings for bird counters. His legacy will be felt in future counts.
The 2025 count is a testament to the dedication of local birders, with participants walking 13.75 miles and driving 557.5 miles. Following the event, many gathered at Calvary Lutheran Church for dinner and discussions about the day’s findings.
With the addition of common ravens to the local bird count, the total number of species recorded over the years has now reached 117. This year’s count underscores the importance of citizen science in monitoring avian populations and adapting to environmental changes.
NEXT: Birdwatchers and environmentalists will be watching closely for trends in bird populations as the season progresses. The findings from the 2025 Willmar Area Christmas Bird Count reflect both the successes and challenges faced by local wildlife, prompting further investigation into the factors influencing these changes.
Stay tuned for updates as more data from the count becomes available, and share this story to highlight the importance of community science in preserving our natural habitats.
