UPDATE: The Willmar Area Christmas Bird Count on December 20, 2025, recorded a significant milestone as birders spotted a new species, the common raven, marking its first appearance in the count’s history. However, the count also faced an alarming decline in the usual population of Canada geese, with only one observed, a drastic drop from 1,121 last year.
Birdwatchers reported the addition of two common ravens, observed by veteran birder and co-organizer Joel Schmidt. This 64th annual count is part of a national initiative by the National Audubon Society, which has been tracking bird populations across the United States for 126 years. The presence of common ravens, typically winter residents in Minnesota’s northern forests, indicates their expanding range southward.
In stark contrast, Canada geese, which usually dominate the count, were nearly absent this year. Only one goose was spotted, compared to over 4,500 in previous counts. The organizers attribute the low numbers to limited open water due to recent cold temperatures. The count day saw temperatures ranging from a low of 18°F to a high of 25°F.
Overall, the count yielded a total of 51 species and 3,291 individual birds, surpassing the average of 36 species. Leading the count were 739 cedar waxwings, followed by 456 black-eyed juncos. Participants reported unexpected sightings of wintering birds, including 11 eastern bluebirds and 60 American robins.
Despite the challenges, the bird count was deemed a success, thanks to the efforts of 26 volunteers, who logged a combined 13.75 miles on foot and 557.5 miles driving. In a somber note, organizers remembered longtime participant Dave Lais, who passed away just two days before the count. Lais was an avid birder and served as the manager of Sibley State Park for nearly three decades.
Schmidt and fellow organizer Joel Halbritter expressed gratitude for the community’s support and participation, highlighting the importance of citizen science in tracking bird populations. The count’s rich history now includes 117 recorded species since its inception.
As the Willmar Area Bird Count continues to evolve, birders and conservationists alike will monitor the changing dynamics of local wildlife, particularly in light of climate change and habitat modification. Bird enthusiasts are encouraged to stay engaged and participate in future counts to help contribute to vital ecological data.
This year’s findings underline the critical role local bird counts play in understanding and protecting avian populations, as well as the broader implications for biodiversity in Minnesota and beyond.
