Noteworthy avian observations (e.g., first arrivals, unusual species and concentrations) are recorded by Refuge staff. A total of 237 bird species were observed throughout the WMD during 2003. Although nine species were accidental [outside of its normal range]), and two others (Bell's vireo, eastern towhee) have only been observed in the extreme southern and western portions of Long Lake's WMD and, therefore, have not been assigned seasonal abundance measures, all other observed species can be divided into three groups based on their greatest expected seasonal abundance (how common they are during their season of peak occurrence in the area). Seasonal abundance measures are derived from the Long Lake NWR Bird List (2002 version). Below is the abundance breakdown for all species observed in 2003.

97 = common species (certain to be seen in suitable habitat)
77 = uncommon species (present, but not certain to be seen)
....52 = rare species (seen at intervals of 2 to 5 years) ..................

The Long Lake NWR Bird List (2002 version, including March 2004 amendment listing newly recorded species) contains 303 species, 26 of which are accidentals and 4 of which have not been recorded on or near the Refuge by staff, but are known to occur in the area.

Of the 303 total species listed on the Long Lake NWR Bird List, 277 have been assigned seasonal abundance measures. Below is the breakdown of all listed species according to their greatestexpected seasonal abundance:

.................... 97 = common species
.....................83 = uncommon species
.....................97 = rare species

When the 2003 species total are compared to the Refuge’s historical species totals and broken down by abundance, it can be seen that 100 percent (97 of 97) of all “common” species were observed within the Wetland Management District. Ninty-three percent (77 of 83) of all “uncommon” species were recorded, and 56 percent (52 of 93) of all “rare” species were recorded during 2003. Overall, 78.2 percent of all species ever recorded in and adjacent to Long Lake NWR were observed somewhere within the WMD during 2003. This compares to 2002, when 70.6 percent of all species historically seen on and adjacent to Long Lake NWR were observed (100% of common species, 88% of uncommon species, 35% of rare species), and 2001 when the overall percentage was 68% (100% of common species, 81% of uncommon species, 27% of rare species).

Please direct questions and comments to:

Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
12000 353rd St. SE
Moffit, North Dakota 58560-9704
Phone: 701-387-4397
E-mail: longlake@fws.gov