[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ TAS BirdBoard ] [ FAQ ]
Posted by Steve McConnell on 14:05:45 12/02/11
In Reply to: Re: Eider sighting? posted by Alex Harper
One little studied (and not well-known?) area for pelagic possibilities off Florida is the northern reaches of DeSoto Canyon south of Pensacola/Destin/Ft. Walton Beach. The 100 fathom curve comes within about 30-35 nm of shore here. Off Alabama just to the west we have to run at least 55 nm offshore to reach a similar depth (urggh!).
While GOM pelagic birding is certainly not comparible to CA or NC, it is not a desert either. Season and water conditions play a huge role and we've found using the drop-and-return chumming technique to be quite effective for luring those with sensitive noses into view.
The number of species is small and numbers of individuals rarely exceed a few dozen but they are certainly out there. My last trip in Sept 2009 even recorded a Byrde's Whale!
More info at: http://www.aosbirds.org/pelagicbirding.php
I have an updated trip list through 2009 if someone wants a copy.
Good luck,
Steve McConnell
Hartselle, AL
swmavocet@aol.com
[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ TAS BirdBoard ] [ FAQ ]