Field Trip Report:

Tumbler Ridge - 2004

MOUNT SPIEKER

MOUNT SPIEKER
Photo by John Sprague

Leader: Joan Kerr
Attractions: Alpine species

One of the main attractions of Tumbler Ridge is the opportunity to drive directly to areas above treeline. This allows access to ptarmigan habitat for many people for whom this is normally a difficult place to reach.

Consequently, hopes were high on the Saturday morning as a large contingent of BCFO'ers drove into the mountains. This group was not disappointed as a White-tailed Ptarmigan was located very close to the tower atop Mt. Spieker and well seen by all, though it could not be located on the following day. Other alpine/sub-alpine species observed were Blue Grouse, Horned Lark, American Pipit, Pine Grosbeak and 7 species of sparrows.

A single Black Swift was noted adjacent to Perry Falls, and this is the most northerly known nesting location in the world for this species.

Mammals seen included Grizzly, Hoary Marmot, Mountain Goat and Fox.

A total of 39 species were seen at this location over the two outings.

BRASSEY CREEK

Leader: Mark Phinney
Attractions: Eastern sp in a low elevation mixed forest

This very birdy habitat produced a wide variety of passerines, including all 4 vireos, including Philadelphia, 5 flycatchers including Yellow-bellied, and 14 species of warblers including such desirable "Eastern " species as Magnolia, Cape May, Black-throated Green, Black & White, Ovenbird, Connecticut, Mourning & Canada.

Perhaps the highlight was a staked out Connecticut Warbler which restlessly flew around the assembled group rarely settling for more than a few seconds. A staked out Cape May Warbler was present atop its expected spruce tree on both days.

A total of 56 species of birds were noted plus a variety of mammals including moose, elk, fox, black bear & coyote.

MURRAY RIVERSIDE & BULLMOOSE MARSHES

Leader: Charles Helm
Attractions: Wetland & forest species

The trip began with the sighting of a gull overflying downtown Tumbler Ridge as the group assembled. Consensus on this bird favoured a California Gull.

A wide variety of sp were seen, reflecting the diversity of habitat types visited. A total of 13 warbler species were noted including Cape May, Black & White, Ovenbird and Mourning.

A total of 69 species were tallied including 60 on the first outing.

DINOSAUR TRACKS

Leader: Janet Proos & Melanie Dame
Attractions: Dinosaur footprints

In addition to dinosaur footprints a total of 30 species of birds were noted including American Dipper, Northern Waterthrush & Northern Pygmy Owl.