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cfc %\k. S ssicro% 2(7/(( Great Blue Heron Nesting Report Jan 25, 2011 From Wayne LeBlanc Here is a brief summary of some Great Blue Heron nest observations for the colony on the island in Peltier Lake. I have a database that keeps track of every nest in every tree on the island. I count the nests in the winter, usually in January or February, when there are no leaves to obscure the nests and there is no chance of disturbing the birds (they are enjoying southern climates in the winter, of course). Year Total Num Nests Total Number of Whole Nests Total Number of Smaller Nests Total Number of Trees Used 2010 47 35 12 26 2009 63 56 5 33 2008 54 45 9 30 On Jan 24, 2011, I observed a total of 47 heron nests, 35 full and 12 small nests in 26 different trees. The summer of 2010 appears to have been a rough year for the herons. Marty Asleson said, in late June, he saw about 15 to 20 chicks. One tree, 727, that contained one nest last year has fallen down. Nests are not static. Some nests are reused and reconstructed. Others are moved to a new location or robbed for sticks for existing nests. In addition, stick piles provided outside the island are also used by the herons. In walking the island, I saw some things that might be done. There's probably more that should be done. Here is a brief list: SUGGESTED ACTIONS: Some branches from fallen tree 727 are at the base of 725 and should be cut to protect 725. Resecure flashing on tree 722 which is 1/2 off. Flash or chop down a small tree next to tree 719. Resecure flashing on tree 05 -5. Remove a fallen branch at base of triple tree 708. Resecure flashing on tree 903. By the way, the new signs installed last year around the island look great!!! Here is a little more information on previous years. On Jan 12, 2010, I observed a total of 63 heron nests, 56 full nests and 5 small nests in 33 trees. Last year there were 45 full and 9 small nests with a total of 54. This year there was an increase of 9 nests, a good trend. Last year had 30 trees, so overall, 3 new trees added nests. Flashing was added on 4 trees, 3 are new trees with new nests. The other flashing was added to a large branch that drooped to the ground. The trunk of this tree, 727, was already flashed and contained 1 nest. New warning signs were added and surround the island. On Feb 16, 2009, I observed a total 54 nests, 45 full nests and 9 small nests in 30 trees. On June 29, 2009, 27 chicks seen. There may be a few more chicks. Hopefully, the herons will do better in 2011. Thank you. Wayne LeBlanc 651 -426 -0168