Estimates and Chronology of Waterfowl Use of Mississippi Catfish Ponds

Estimates from aerial surveys (Nov-Feb 1983-87) of ducks, geese, and American coots (Fulica americana) wintering on catfish ponds in western Mississippi are presented. Estimates did not appear to be biased by the time of day clusters were surveyed, by changing observers, or by changing clusters surveyed between years. Estimates increased from an average of 54,000 birds in 1983-84, to 121,000 in 1985--86, but decreased to 105,000 in 1986-87. Numbers of birds generally peaked from late November through early December, but declined thereafter, followed by a second peak in late December to mid-January.