ML636690106

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Mind blowing numbers in numerous huge carpets of birds offshore and all seen within a 2 hour time period in deeper water just east of Jeffrey's Ledge in an area known as Wilkinson's Basin. Extremely difficult to "count", but they were in discrete huge groups offshore and the boat slowly moved from one carpet to another which helped to avoid double-counting. Interestingly these flocks were comprised of 99+% Reds (only 1 or 2 seen to be RNPH in huge rafts). These Red Phalarope rafts were completely separate from the Red-necked Phalarope flocks located a bit further south and west in more shallow water. According to Becky's difficult estimates (which I think accurately reflect the total number of birds) 11,760 were in NH waters and 3,020 were in MA waters. These numbers are among the highest ever recorded in New England. For comparison, the highest counts I can find (without extensive research) are as follows: New Hampshire - (Keith & Fox) - 200+ by Libby off Portsmouth (11/17/54). Since then I had 268 on 10/14/19. Massachusetts - (Veit & Petersen) - 25,000 from land at Rockport (11/15/57) and 2,416 at south edge of George's Bank 5/28/77 by MBO staff. Maine - (Vickery) - 5,196 off e. Maine 9/14/08. (E. Hynes et al) Nearly 100% were in high breeding plumage, but a couple of "basic plumaged' birds were noted.