Date: 3/30/25 12:45 pm From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls (Summers Co.), Mar 30, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Sun, Mar 30, 2025 at 3:44 PM
Subject: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls
(Summers Co.), Mar 30, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls (Summers Co.), Summers,
West Virginia, US
Mar 30, 2025 12:50 PM - 1:30 PM
Protocol: Traveling
8.0 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 70 degrees, overcast with light rain
Visitor license plates represented WV, VA, OH, PA, MD, NC, KY, WI, MI & NY.
Flowers blooming - Redbud, Sarvis, Leatherwood, Spicebush, Spring Beauties,
Trout Lily, Ground Ivy, Dutchman's Breeches, Anemone, Culeaf Toothwort,
Bloodroot, Blue Violet, Wild Mustard, Dandelion, Coltsfoot, Daffododils and
Forsythia.
30 species
Canada Goose 10
Mallard 2
Common Merganser 8
Killdeer 1
Double-crested Cormorant 8
Turkey Vulture 4
Osprey 1
Bald Eagle 1 adult
Belted Kingfisher 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue Jay 2
American Crow 8
Carolina Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 3
Tree Swallow 17
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Carolina Wren 3
European Starling 50
Northern Mockingbird 1
American Robin 13
Dark-eyed Junco 2
White-throated Sparrow 1
Song Sparrow 2
Eastern Towhee 1
Red-winged Blackbird 9
Brown-headed Cowbird 6
Common Grackle 16
Black-and-white Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 3
Date: 3/30/25 4:01 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - Lowell, Mar 28, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Sun, Mar 30, 2025 at 6:28 AM
Subject: eBird Report - Lowell, Mar 28, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
Lowell, Summers, West Virginia, US
Mar 28, 2025 12:40 PM - 1:00 PM
Protocol: Traveling
3.0 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 69 degrees, partly cloudy
Trout Lily, Ground Ivy, Bloodroot, Dandelion, Coltsfoot, Sarvis, Spring
Beauties, Redbud, Pussytoes, Wild Mustard, Daffodils & Forsythia in bloom.
18 species
Canada Goose 1
Common Merganser 2
Mourning Dove 2
Turkey Vulture 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
American Crow 1
Common Raven 1
Carolina Chickadee 1
Tufted Titmouse 2
Tree Swallow 3
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Carolina Wren 3
Northern Mockingbird 2
Song Sparrow 1
Eastern Towhee 1
Red-winged Blackbird 3
Common Grackle 2
Northern Cardinal 3
A couple days ago I was checking on the RS hawk nest when I spotted a Red-bellied woodpecker exiting a new nest hole that I hadn't noticed before. He then kept dipping in and backing out with a beakful of woodchips. The next morning I was unable to find it again. I waited til the afternoon when the light was the same as when I first saw it and still no luck. So frustrating because it was so obvious. I'm not giving up though.
Early afternoon I had my scope set up to observe and photograph the hawk's nest when I noticed some movement in a nearby snag. Yep, it was another male Red-bellied excavating. I watched for over an hour.
He was only able to dip his body halfway in. He was still at it when I walked my dog at 5:30. He'd made great progress because only the tip of his tail showed when he dipped in. I had no idea they could keep it up so long.
At one point the female appeared briefly, as if to make sure her mate was not slacking off. Funny.
Date: 3/27/25 11:37 am From: LeJay Graffious <lejaygraffious...> Subject: Preston County
Old Hemlock, Preston, West Virginia, US Mar 27, 2025 11:22 AM - 12:09 PM Protocol: Traveling 1.07 mile(s) 16 species
Wild Turkey 9 Turkey Vulture 1 Red-headed Woodpecker 1 Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 Hairy Woodpecker 1 Pileated Woodpecker 1 American Kestrel 1 Blue Jay 1 White-breasted Nuthatch 2 Eastern Bluebird 2 American Robin 1 American Goldfinch 12 Field Sparrow 3 First of the year Song Sparrow 3 Eastern Meadowlark 1 Common Grackle 1
Spring is in the Valley: yesterday at the Beall Tract of CVNWR I found 2 Tree Swallows, watched a Brown Creeper singing as it crept, and enjoyed Bald Eagle, Northern Flicker, and Belted Kingfisher. At the pond opposite Freeland Road on 32 there were 10 each of Wood and Ring-necked ducks and 8 Mallards.
Today I saw Bald Eagles in Hampshire, Hardy, and Mineral Counties, Sharp-shinned Hawks in Hampshire and Mineral, and 10 Wild Turkeys along Rt 48 in Tucker.
Date: 3/24/25 8:38 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Brooks Island Overlook, Mar 23, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Mon, Mar 24, 2025 at 11:17 AM
Subject: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Brooks Island Overlook, Mar 23,
2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
New River Gorge NP--Brooks Island Overlook, Summers, West Virginia, US
Mar 23, 2025 2:12 PM - 2:27 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 64 degrees, sunny
Coltsfoot & Redbud in bloom.
3 species
Turkey Vulture 5
Bald Eagle 1 adult
American Crow 2
Date: 3/24/25 8:37 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls (Summers Co.), Mar 23, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Mon, Mar 24, 2025 at 11:14 AM
Subject: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls
(Summers Co.), Mar 23, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls (Summers Co.), Summers,
West Virginia, US
Mar 23, 2025 12:30 PM - 2:10 PM
Protocol: Traveling
8.0 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 55 degrees, sunny
Trout Lily, Spring Beauties, Spicebush & Coltsfoot in bloom.
State license plates observed - WV, VA, NC, OH, PA, MD, UT, MN, WI & IL.
20 species
Canada Goose 15
Mallard 9
Lesser Scaup 2
Common Merganser 7
Double-crested Cormorant 5
Turkey Vulture 7
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
American Crow 4
Carolina Chickadee 2
Tufted Titmouse 3
Tree Swallow 13
White-breasted Nuthatch 1
Carolina Wren 1
Eastern Bluebird 1
American Robin 4
Song Sparrow 1
Red-winged Blackbird 5
Common Grackle 12
Northern Cardinal 2
This morning while watching the birds at my feeder I was shocked to discover three Yellow rumped warblers flitting their way through the hedge row…first ever for Patio 33…truly a thrill.
Others:
House finches 5
Cardinal 2
Song sparrow 1
White-throated sparrow 1
Juncos 4
Red-bellied woodpecker 1
Goldfinches 2
White-breasted nuthatch 1
Carolina wrens 2
Robins 2
Titmouse 2
Starling 1
Carolina chickadee 1
House sparrows 4
Date: 3/22/25 7:18 am From: Bruni Haydl <bruni...> Subject: New arrival
Yesterday, I went to get a glass of wine before turning on the evening news when I saw a beautiful male Towhee mingling with the other birds on the patio. I normally hear before I see the first one. Another welcome visitor was the first Phoebe.
Lots of Robins on the ground in the morning. Among them was a Red-winged Blackbird. The sun really made those bars pop. The Tree
Swallows are busy checking out the nest boxes.
Still monitoring the RS hawk nest in my neighbor's yard. There seems to be more activity in the morning. Yesterday, what may have been the smaller male was sitting in a tree nearby. A bit ago, there was one on the nest, adjusting the material.
It was overcast when we walked this morning and there was almost no bird activity. Now that the sun is out, all that has changed. Lots of White-throated and Song Sparrows. The side-by-side suet cakes on the walnut tree trunk have a Downy and Hairy Woodpecker. Such a great comparison for folks who have trouble telling them apart.
My favorite little Brown Creeper still shows up daily for his suet.
Date: 3/17/25 11:57 am From: Paul Mckay <paulmck57...> Subject: Re: Merlin hears BCCH?
Hi Cynthia,
I have found Merlin surprisingly accurate. But Chickadee issues appear more
than even an expert like you can overcome. Merlin self corrects so my rule
of thumb is an unusual bird heard once by Merlin is suspect but if repeated
several times is almost always correct. It is really a great tool.
Good seeing you recently.
Paul
On Mon, Mar 17, 2025, 12:43 PM Derek Courtney <derek.dana.courtney...>
wrote:
> Cynthia,
>
> The hybrid range in WV for chickadees in WV is large enough that most birds
> should probably be identified based on visual field marks and not audio
> clues. While that is probably too much for every-day casual birding, at the
> very least out of range chickadees should be identified based on an
> analysis of field marks.
>
> Merlin is quite bad at differentiating the species, at least in WV. While
> some of this is undoubtedly due to the hybridization issue, it confidently
> identifies CACH in Canaan Valley for me all the time where CACH don't
> really venture. It also kicks up BCCH in my back yard where "my" chickadees
> show no visible BCCH signs.
>
> People seem to perform similarly, again likely because of the extent of
> hybridization and similarity of vocalizations.
>
> For eBird purposes, where data quality is the priority, such records that
> are not substantiated do not get confirmed. You can submit whatever you
> like though for your own personal records.
>
> As for the White-crowned Sparrow, if you have recordings that substantiate
> that ID, that would be confirmed in that case. It's up to you whether you
> submit sightings that are Merlin heard only for your checklist.
>
> Merlin should be used as a guide as to what may be there, and attempts to
> confirm for yourself should be made of possible. Merlin only sightings with
> no audio uploaded and no other description or evidence tend to get
> unconfirmed by eBird Reviewers.
>
> Good birding,
> Derek
>
> Sent from My Xfinity Mobile Device
>
> On Mon, Mar 17, 2025, 11:55 AM cynthia burkhart <
> <000000990b36e23b-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
> > Every March, Merlin says it hears a black- capped chickadee at my yard in
> > Ritchie county. This year it also heard a white-crowned sparrow. Both
> are
> > indicated by Merlin as rare/ uncommon. I cannot hear bird songs anymore,
> > but 10 years ago I regularly heard the black- capped chickadee song.
> > However, when I reported it on ebird, it was discounted by a reviewer
> > unless I had a photo. It was suggested that I could be hearing a CACH
> that
> > had learned the BCCH song…but wouldn’t that mean that the 2 were in the
> > same area for one to learn the other’s song?
> > Anyway, I’m wondering if I should believe Merlin and report the BCCH and
> > WCSP?
> > Or could I send the Merlin recordings to a reviewer?
> > All opinions are welcome!
> > Cynthia Burkhart
> > Ritchie county, WV
> > Sent from my iPad
>
Date: 3/17/25 9:43 am From: Derek Courtney <derek.dana.courtney...> Subject: Re: Merlin hears BCCH?
Cynthia,
The hybrid range in WV for chickadees in WV is large enough that most birds
should probably be identified based on visual field marks and not audio
clues. While that is probably too much for every-day casual birding, at the
very least out of range chickadees should be identified based on an
analysis of field marks.
Merlin is quite bad at differentiating the species, at least in WV. While
some of this is undoubtedly due to the hybridization issue, it confidently
identifies CACH in Canaan Valley for me all the time where CACH don't
really venture. It also kicks up BCCH in my back yard where "my" chickadees
show no visible BCCH signs.
People seem to perform similarly, again likely because of the extent of
hybridization and similarity of vocalizations.
For eBird purposes, where data quality is the priority, such records that
are not substantiated do not get confirmed. You can submit whatever you
like though for your own personal records.
As for the White-crowned Sparrow, if you have recordings that substantiate
that ID, that would be confirmed in that case. It's up to you whether you
submit sightings that are Merlin heard only for your checklist.
Merlin should be used as a guide as to what may be there, and attempts to
confirm for yourself should be made of possible. Merlin only sightings with
no audio uploaded and no other description or evidence tend to get
unconfirmed by eBird Reviewers.
Good birding,
Derek
Sent from My Xfinity Mobile Device
On Mon, Mar 17, 2025, 11:55 AM cynthia burkhart <
<000000990b36e23b-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> Every March, Merlin says it hears a black- capped chickadee at my yard in
> Ritchie county. This year it also heard a white-crowned sparrow. Both are
> indicated by Merlin as rare/ uncommon. I cannot hear bird songs anymore,
> but 10 years ago I regularly heard the black- capped chickadee song.
> However, when I reported it on ebird, it was discounted by a reviewer
> unless I had a photo. It was suggested that I could be hearing a CACH that
> had learned the BCCH song…but wouldn’t that mean that the 2 were in the
> same area for one to learn the other’s song?
> Anyway, I’m wondering if I should believe Merlin and report the BCCH and
> WCSP?
> Or could I send the Merlin recordings to a reviewer?
> All opinions are welcome!
> Cynthia Burkhart
> Ritchie county, WV
> Sent from my iPad
Every March, Merlin says it hears a black- capped chickadee at my yard in Ritchie county. This year it also heard a white-crowned sparrow. Both are indicated by Merlin as rare/ uncommon. I cannot hear bird songs anymore, but 10 years ago I regularly heard the black- capped chickadee song. However, when I reported it on ebird, it was discounted by a reviewer unless I had a photo. It was suggested that I could be hearing a CACH that had learned the BCCH song…but wouldn’t that mean that the 2 were in the same area for one to learn the other’s song?
Anyway, I’m wondering if I should believe Merlin and report the BCCH and WCSP?
Or could I send the Merlin recordings to a reviewer?
All opinions are welcome!
Cynthia Burkhart
Ritchie county, WV
Sent from my iPad
Date: 3/16/25 2:33 pm From: Derek Courtney <derek.dana.courtney...> Subject: West Virginia Bird Records Committee Update
Hi, all!
On March 8, the WV Bird Records Committee convened to review significant bird sightings of 2024 and further back. Spring, across North America, most often conjures up thoughts of migration, with eager birders eagerly awaiting the return of our neotropical migrants. In the non-birder world however, many begin the labors of spring cleaning; tidying up after the cold and snow keep us indoors for much of the winter months. This year's meeting was equal parts evaluating new records and tidying up a few things from the past.
2024 was a really excellent year for bird diversity in West Virginia, a fact which delighted those undertaking some sort of Big Year. Shorebirds in particular really put in a great showing in our state with diversity buoyed by unfortunate drought conditions creating more habitat than we normally see from early spring onward. From a rare bird perspective, things really kicked up in the fall migration period though.
August is usually a time when we can expect some dispersing waders from down south. Last year saw an exceptional record of Tricolored Heron turn up at Marmet Locks in Kanawha County. Richard Gregg spotted this southern species in mid-August while birding one of his favorite local patches. This bird luckily stayed around a few days, allowing several state birders to enjoy its presence. This was the third relatively recent state record, with the most recent prior sighting happening all the way back in 2009. Great find, Richard!
When the weather cooled, the bird finds heated up! Late October saw a gorgeous Western Kingbird grace Harrison County. David Mayle found this western flycatcher hawking insects around the Bridgeport Rec Center. *Tyrannus* species can be really tricky to identify at times, but David's photos were so good that the Committee had little difficulty unanimously accepting this record. If only the bird had stayed around longer for others to see; but this one was a one-day wonder.
Later on, in November, Terry Bronson spied a Black-legged Kittiwake just off the Ohio River at the French Creek Wildlife Area in Pleasants County. This is a species that many had been eagerly awaiting to return to the state for many years. The previous record occurred all the way back in 1963 and, unsurprisingly, was also along the Ohio River. This fantastic sighting represents only the third state record with the first reported in 1902! This bird did not linger long and subsequent attempts to refind it in poor weather were thwarted. Hopefully the 60+ year pattern of recurrence can be shortened with the next one; Ohio River birders ... the gauntlet has been thrown down.
And finishing the year with a bang, superstar birders Aaron Graham and Ariella Malfaro came across a Black-throated Gray Warbler at a Grant County hotspot just two weeks before the year ended. This western warbler definitely shows a pattern of vagrancy to the east, but this is only the second time one has been seen in WV. Fantastic photos made this an easy record to accept. Unfortunately, despite really good habitat to hold a bird like this, and effort by many other birders, this one could not be refound either. With luck, the next Black-throated Gray will be more cooperative. Nevertheless, great find Aaron and Ariella!
The Records Committee also received a wonderful presentation on the MOTUS tracking system from Committee Member and State Ornithologist, Rich Bailey. With new towers going up every year, the MOTUS data has real potential to answer scientific questions that have gone unanswered for too long. From a birder's perspective, this can also cast an illuminating light on what species pass through our state unseen. Within the past few years, Piping Plover, Red Knot, and Bicknell's Thrush have all flown over wearing MOTUS tags. I also expect the MOTUS data will give birders our best chance at figuring out where and when to look for Kirtland's Warblers, as a few tagged birds have also made their way through WV on their migration route. Thanks again, Rich!
A few older sightings that had slipped through the cracks were also reviewed and unanimously accepted. Likewise, a pair of previously accepted records were deemed problematic, and subjected to further review. The Committee thanks everyone who took the time to submit reports for evaluation. A full written report of the Committee's actions will be published in a future edition of *The Redstart*. You can also check the BRC website: https://www.brooksbirdclub.org/west-virginia-bird-records-committee.html for more in depth information on the BRC submissions received for 2024. I expect the website will be updated within the next few weeks. The Committee extends heartfelt thanks to the Brooks Bird Club and its cooperation with the aforementioned endeavors.
Likewise, the Committee wishes to thank Dr. Gary Rankin and Dr. Jesse Fallon as they complete their 5 year terms of volunteer service on the BRC and rotate off the Committee. As they exit, we welcome Josh Holland and Cynthia Mullens who were elected to serve 5 year terms. Nathan Reese will serve as our alternate member for the coming year. The Committee looks forward to their contributions and appreciates their willingness to serve.
If anyone has any questions, concerns, comments, or thoughts on how the Bird Records Committee can better serve West Virginia and its birding community, please do not hesitate to contact me. Until the next time, then ... Thanks for all you do! The BRC cannot function without cooperation from the birding community. 2025 is already off to a bang with a sighting of Harlequin Duck already submitted. Who knows what exciting species will turn up next!
Date: 3/15/25 6:30 pm From: Derek Courtney <derek.dana.courtney...> Subject: Cheat Lake Waterbird Report --- Mon Co.
Hi, all!
This morning 12 participants joined me for Mountaineer Audubon's tour of Cheat Lake in search of migrating waterfowl. We beat the storms, but I think the birds beat us in turn. Numbers and diversity were pretty low overall. The warm weather led to a number of boats on the water today, which may have hindered us slightly. Water levels were higher than I expected given the lack of recent rains, and that can sometimes hamper how long the dabblers will hang around. Lots of debris in the lake too for some reason. Regardless, it was a great day to be out birding with friends. Waterbird totals below and full species totals entered to eBird.
Cheat Lake --- I-68 Bridge Canada Goose 4 Mallard 3 Bufflehead 6 Duck sp. 25 (just too far out with the heat shimmer for ID)
Cheat Lake --- Sunset Harbor Canada Goose 9 (too many boats using the ramp for ducks to hang out)
Cheat Lake --- Cheat Lake Park Canada Goose 4 Green-winged Teal 6 Ring-necked Duck 5 Bufflehead 1 Common Merganser 1 Pied-billed Grebe 2 Belted Kingfisher 2
Thanks to everyone who came out today! And thanks to Hannah Clipp for keeping the eBird lists. I believe the next field trips up for Mountaineer Audubon are a series of Woodcock walks. Check the website and Facebook pages for updates. Best wishes to you all!
Thursday morning I heard that long-lost zzzzip and knew I had new visitors. Two Pine Siskins made the first appearance here in quite some time.
Today on the Chris Clower trail in Canaan Valley I was delighted to see three Mourning Cloaks, my first butterflies of the year and survivors of 15-20 below temperatures in January.
Date: 3/13/25 8:10 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls (Summers Co.), Mar 12, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Thu, Mar 13, 2025 at 10:57 AM
Subject: eBird Report - New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls
(Summers Co.), Mar 12, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
New River Gorge NP--Madams Creek to Sandstone Falls (Summers Co.), Summers,
West Virginia, US
Mar 12, 2025 12:08 PM - 12:48 PM
Protocol: Traveling
8.0 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 64 degrees, partly cloudy
coltsfoot blooming & painted turtles sunning.
24 species
Canada Goose 29
Mallard 4
Common Merganser 14
American Woodcock 1
Black Vulture 7
Turkey Vulture 4
Bald Eagle 1 adult
Red-tailed Hawk 3
Belted Kingfisher 1
Eastern Phoebe 4
Blue Jay 3
American Crow 2
Tufted Titmouse 3
Carolina Wren 4
European Starling 5
Northern Mockingbird 1
American Robin 1
Dark-eyed Junco 3
Song Sparrow 8
Eastern Towhee 1
Red-winged Blackbird 5
Common Grackle 4
Yellow-rumped Warbler 1
Northern Cardinal 4
The Red-shouldered hawks in my neighbor's yard seem to have moved to new digs. I hadn't seen any activity on the original nest for about a week. Yesterday morning I noticed what could be a possible nest on the other side of the yard. Today I got a good look while the hawks were around it. This nest has some white pine sprigs, something I've seen in other active nests. I set the scope up next to my driveway and managed to get some decent shots of the nest with one of the occupants.
Coming back to my house I heard the familiar twitter of tree swallows. Sure enough, there were a number of them overhead. Seems a bit early.
5 minutes using Merlin while feeding my horse. White Crowned Sparrow was heard by my app twice but not by me. Also, appears to be a new e-bird format, let me know if it is not ok. Thanks, Paul Ohio County
Paul Paul M. McKay, Esq. 4404 Oglebay Drive Wheeling, WV, 26003 304 780 0557
On Tue, Mar 11, 2025, 11:08 AM Cheyenne Carter <
<cheyennecarterleich...> wrote:
> Hello Members,
>
> *A reminder our program is tonight! For those who can't make it in person
> there is a zoom link below.*
>
> We are excited to invite you to Mountaineer Audubon’s monthly program,
> which will take place in person at Percival hall *Tuesday, March 11, at 7
> pm room 308.*
>
> “Science in the
>
> Scope: The Latest in Bird Research by WVU
>
> Graduate Students”
>
>
> This program will feature several graduate students
>
> from West Virginia University. Graduate students
>
> providing a brief overview of their research and
>
> results include Julian Grudens (The Cerulean
>
> Warbler: Research and the Road to Recovery); Luke
>
> McCray (Merriam’s Wild Turkey Hen Survival in
>
> Gregory County, South Dakota); and Kirstin Palumbo
>
> (Factors Affecting Turkey Nesting in West Virginia).
>
> You don't want to miss this opportunity to learn about
>
> bird-related WVU science! This will be our first in-
>
> person program of year. Please come join us!
>
>
> *Before the Program:*
>
> Please come out and enjoy dinner with other Audubon members and support
> local businesses prior to the program. We will dine at Ta-Khrai Thai Cafe
> at 5pm. The address is 2862 University Ave Morgantown, WV 26505
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/2862+University+Ave+Morgantown,+WV+26505?entry=gmail&source=g> > .
>
>
> If interested in coming please email me at <cheyennecarterleich...> so
> I can ensure a large enough table.
>
> We look forward to seeing you there!
>
>
> Cheyenne Carter is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Join Zoom
> Meeting
> https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81169972668?<pwd...> > Meeting ID: 811 6997 2668 Passcode: 693120 --- One tap mobile
> +13017158592,,81169972668#,,,,*693120# US (Washington DC)
> +13052241968,,81169972668#,,,,*693120# US --- Dial by your location • +1
> 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) • +1 305 224 1968 US • +1 309 205 3325 US •
> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) • +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) • +1 646 931
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> 720 707 2699 US (Denver) • +1 253 205 0468 US • +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
> • +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) • +1 360 209 5623 US • +1 386 347 5053 US •
> +1 507 473 4847 US • +1 564 217 2000 US Meeting ID: 811 6997 2668 Passcode:
> 693120 Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kci7D3KVLX >
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Mountaineer Audubon Information for Members" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to mountaineer-audubon-members+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mountaineer-audubon-members/CAMHvwhk%3DZJ9pN%<3D0qnhkk8xBC1Nd9MEaT_HZYvreGnMxrs8bejQ...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mountaineer-audubon-members/CAMHvwhk%3DZJ9pN%<3D0qnhkk8xBC1Nd9MEaT_HZYvreGnMxrs8bejQ...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
On Tue, Mar 11, 2025, 2:42 PM LeJay Graffious <lejaygraffious...>
wrote:
> I obtain
>
> LeJay
>
> On Tue, Mar 11, 2025, 11:08 AM Cheyenne Carter <
> <cheyennecarterleich...> wrote:
>
>> Hello Members,
>>
>> *A reminder our program is tonight! For those who can't make it in person
>> there is a zoom link below.*
>>
>> We are excited to invite you to Mountaineer Audubon’s monthly program,
>> which will take place in person at Percival hall *Tuesday, March 11, at
>> 7 pm room 308.*
>>
>> “Science in the
>>
>> Scope: The Latest in Bird Research by WVU
>>
>> Graduate Students”
>>
>>
>> This program will feature several graduate students
>>
>> from West Virginia University. Graduate students
>>
>> providing a brief overview of their research and
>>
>> results include Julian Grudens (The Cerulean
>>
>> Warbler: Research and the Road to Recovery); Luke
>>
>> McCray (Merriam’s Wild Turkey Hen Survival in
>>
>> Gregory County, South Dakota); and Kirstin Palumbo
>>
>> (Factors Affecting Turkey Nesting in West Virginia).
>>
>> You don't want to miss this opportunity to learn about
>>
>> bird-related WVU science! This will be our first in-
>>
>> person program of year. Please come join us!
>>
>>
>> *Before the Program:*
>>
>> Please come out and enjoy dinner with other Audubon members and support
>> local businesses prior to the program. We will dine at Ta-Khrai Thai Cafe
>> at 5pm. The address is 2862 University Ave Morgantown, WV 26505
>> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/2862+University+Ave+Morgantown,+WV+26505?entry=gmail&source=g> >> .
>>
>>
>> If interested in coming please email me at <cheyennecarterleich...> so
>> I can ensure a large enough table.
>>
>> We look forward to seeing you there!
>>
>>
>> Cheyenne Carter is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Join Zoom
>> Meeting
>> https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81169972668?<pwd...> >> Meeting ID: 811 6997 2668 Passcode: 693120 --- One tap mobile
>> +13017158592,,81169972668#,,,,*693120# US (Washington DC)
>> +13052241968,,81169972668#,,,,*693120# US --- Dial by your location • +1
>> 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) • +1 305 224 1968 US • +1 309 205 3325 US •
>> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) • +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) • +1 646 931
>> 3860 US • +1 669 444 9171 US • +1 689 278 1000 US • +1 719 359 4580 US • +1
>> 720 707 2699 US (Denver) • +1 253 205 0468 US • +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
>> • +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) • +1 360 209 5623 US • +1 386 347 5053 US •
>> +1 507 473 4847 US • +1 564 217 2000 US Meeting ID: 811 6997 2668 Passcode:
>> 693120 Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kci7D3KVLX >>
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "Mountaineer Audubon Information for Members" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to mountaineer-audubon-members+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mountaineer-audubon-members/CAMHvwhk%3DZJ9pN%<3D0qnhkk8xBC1Nd9MEaT_HZYvreGnMxrs8bejQ...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mountaineer-audubon-members/CAMHvwhk%3DZJ9pN%<3D0qnhkk8xBC1Nd9MEaT_HZYvreGnMxrs8bejQ...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
>
Date: 3/11/25 11:42 am From: LeJay Graffious <lejaygraffious...> Subject: Re: Audubon Program Tonight!
I obtain
LeJay
On Tue, Mar 11, 2025, 11:08 AM Cheyenne Carter <
<cheyennecarterleich...> wrote:
> Hello Members,
>
> *A reminder our program is tonight! For those who can't make it in person
> there is a zoom link below.*
>
> We are excited to invite you to Mountaineer Audubon’s monthly program,
> which will take place in person at Percival hall *Tuesday, March 11, at 7
> pm room 308.*
>
> “Science in the
>
> Scope: The Latest in Bird Research by WVU
>
> Graduate Students”
>
>
> This program will feature several graduate students
>
> from West Virginia University. Graduate students
>
> providing a brief overview of their research and
>
> results include Julian Grudens (The Cerulean
>
> Warbler: Research and the Road to Recovery); Luke
>
> McCray (Merriam’s Wild Turkey Hen Survival in
>
> Gregory County, South Dakota); and Kirstin Palumbo
>
> (Factors Affecting Turkey Nesting in West Virginia).
>
> You don't want to miss this opportunity to learn about
>
> bird-related WVU science! This will be our first in-
>
> person program of year. Please come join us!
>
>
> *Before the Program:*
>
> Please come out and enjoy dinner with other Audubon members and support
> local businesses prior to the program. We will dine at Ta-Khrai Thai Cafe
> at 5pm. The address is 2862 University Ave Morgantown, WV 26505
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/2862+University+Ave+Morgantown,+WV+26505?entry=gmail&source=g> > .
>
>
> If interested in coming please email me at <cheyennecarterleich...> so
> I can ensure a large enough table.
>
> We look forward to seeing you there!
>
>
> Cheyenne Carter is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Join Zoom
> Meeting
> https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81169972668?<pwd...> > Meeting ID: 811 6997 2668 Passcode: 693120 --- One tap mobile
> +13017158592,,81169972668#,,,,*693120# US (Washington DC)
> +13052241968,,81169972668#,,,,*693120# US --- Dial by your location • +1
> 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) • +1 305 224 1968 US • +1 309 205 3325 US •
> +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) • +1 646 558 8656 US (New York) • +1 646 931
> 3860 US • +1 669 444 9171 US • +1 689 278 1000 US • +1 719 359 4580 US • +1
> 720 707 2699 US (Denver) • +1 253 205 0468 US • +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
> • +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) • +1 360 209 5623 US • +1 386 347 5053 US •
> +1 507 473 4847 US • +1 564 217 2000 US Meeting ID: 811 6997 2668 Passcode:
> 693120 Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kci7D3KVLX >
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Mountaineer Audubon Information for Members" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to mountaineer-audubon-members+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mountaineer-audubon-members/CAMHvwhk%3DZJ9pN%<3D0qnhkk8xBC1Nd9MEaT_HZYvreGnMxrs8bejQ...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mountaineer-audubon-members/CAMHvwhk%3DZJ9pN%<3D0qnhkk8xBC1Nd9MEaT_HZYvreGnMxrs8bejQ...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
Alas, I can no longer hear Spring peepers, but my husband can. He heard both Spring peepers and wood frogs on March 5 here in Ritchie county.
Cynthia Burkhart
Sent from my iPad
> On Mar 10, 2025, at 8:52 PM, James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> wrote:
>
> Just stepped out on the porch and heard a nice chorus of spring peepers and
> a woodcock.
> Jim Phillips
> Summers County
> Pipestem, WV
Date: 3/9/25 1:32 pm From: Paul Mckay <paulmck57...> Subject: Re: Green Bottom WMA
We saw a Ross's Goose in New Matamoris on the way home.
Paul and Debbie McKay
On Sun, Mar 9, 2025, 4:26 PM Mindy Waldron <wvwaldron...> wrote:
> Everyone,
> We saw these birds driving past Green Bottom WMA today.
> 2 Tundra swans, seen from the Hoeft Marsh.
> Canada goose
> Ring-necked duck, around 23
> Northern shoveler
> Mallard
> American black duck
> Hooded merganser, 6
> Wood duck 4
> Bufflehead 2
> Great blue heron
> Pileated woodpecker
> A. Crow
> Yellow-rumped warbler, 14
> C. chickadee
> A. Robin
> N. mockingbird
> Song sparrow
> Tree swallows, flying above the water
> Red-winged blackbirds
> Common grackles
> Red-tailed hawks
> Lots of turtles, over 40, sitting on logs. I don't know turtle species.
>
> Mindy and Allen Waldron
>
Everyone, We saw these birds driving past Green Bottom WMA today. 2 Tundra swans, seen from the Hoeft Marsh. Canada goose Ring-necked duck, around 23 Northern shoveler Mallard American black duck Hooded merganser, 6 Wood duck 4 Bufflehead 2 Great blue heron Pileated woodpecker A. Crow Yellow-rumped warbler, 14 C. chickadee A. Robin N. mockingbird Song sparrow Tree swallows, flying above the water Red-winged blackbirds Common grackles Red-tailed hawks Lots of turtles, over 40, sitting on logs. I don't know turtle species.
Date: 3/8/25 4:49 pm From: Derek Courtney <derek.dana.courtney...> Subject: Upcoming Mountaineer Audubon Field Trip --- Cheat Lake
Hi, all!
Mountaineer Audubon will be sponsoring a field trip to the Cheat Lake area next Saturday, March 15, 2025. We will meet at 8:00 am in the parking lot behind Chestnut Ridge Church to arrange carpool if needed. If anyone desires an earlier morning caffeine fix/breakfast/socialization, I will be at the Almost Heaven cafe (adjacent to Chestnut Ridge Church) at 7:00 am.
This trip will be focused on migrating waterfowl. Walking will be minimal except for Cheat Lake Park where we may walk up to 1 mile or so on a well-maintained and flat trail. Everyone is welcome, no pre-registration is needed. There is no cost to attend. The trip will occur rain or shine as long as roads are safe to travel. So, come out and kick off your St. Patrick's Day weekend with some good birds and good friends! BYOB obviously :) Hope to see you all there. Any questions, feel free to drop me a line.
Date: 3/8/25 8:37 am From: Chris Mullens <mullensc66...> Subject: Re: Possible bald eagle nest at Pipestem
I had an adult Bald Eagle Thursday evening in Quail Valley. Checked out
the small lake for a few minutes and was gone.
On Sat, Mar 8, 2025, 10:48 AM James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...>
wrote:
> This morning, as I returned home from the P.O., I decided to ride across
> Pipestem S.P. In the cottage area, an adult bald eagle flew across the road
> barely above the car. It was carrying a fox squirrel.
> It flew straight down into the Bluestone gorge. Through the tree tops, I
> could see a 2nd adult perched in a dead tree.
> We will take the spotting scope & see if we can confirm a nest.
> Jim Phillips
> Summers County
> Pipestem, WV
>
Date: 3/8/25 7:48 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Possible bald eagle nest at Pipestem
This morning, as I returned home from the P.O., I decided to ride across Pipestem S.P. In the cottage area, an adult bald eagle flew across the road barely above the car. It was carrying a fox squirrel. It flew straight down into the Bluestone gorge. Through the tree tops, I could see a 2nd adult perched in a dead tree. We will take the spotting scope & see if we can confirm a nest. Jim Phillips Summers County Pipestem, WV
The first birds of the day were a Downy and Sapsucker feeding on the side-by-side suet cakes. Later on a handsome Hairy showed up. He dropped a piece of suet, went down the tree backwards and when he reached the bottom swiveled his head back to pick up the suet. Then he went back up to the suet cake. Such a cute maneuver.
Looking out the top of the patio door I noticed a gray banded tail. Turned out to be a Sharpie checking out the birds. He was no more than 6 ft from the door so I really got a great look at his size. I'm always surprised how seldom I get Sharpies or Coopers considering the crazy bird activity around all the feeders.
It is so interesting to see the birds come in waves some days. Six Flickers at the same time and around ten male Cardinals. At least three different Pileateds coming for suet daily. The Starlings that were a nuisance for a while seem to have left. Just had a small flock of Cedar Waxwings at the birdbath. That was a nice surprise!
Yesterday a male Cardinal struck the glass door, a very rare occurrence. He was on the grass, not moving. Thought for sure he'd broken his neck. I didn't have a box so I just used a loaf pan and lined it with a piece of polar fleece fabric to keep him warm. Checked on him a few times and after 20 minutes or so he'd recovered and was gone. A good outcome.
Several years ago I'd leaned my used Christmas tree into a corner spot along the house for extra protection/roosting spot for the birds. When I finally decided to discard it I found that a Carolina Wren had made a nest in it. I put this years everlasting Fraser fir in the same place. Let's see if history will repeat itself.
Last week I discovered a Red-shouldered hawk nest in a neighbor's yard. Not sure if it is complete but I have seen the hawk pair on or near it. It is visible from my driveway while the trees are bare and I also see it when I walk my dog in the morning from the other side.
A Facebook page that deals with Bluebirds is showing nest boxes with two entry holes, side by side and is bigger. Supposedly it gives the nestlings more room and the second hole allows the Bluebird to escape should a House Sparrow enter. That may be so but the nestlings would still be victims of the intruder. I've had success eliminating any HOSP that show up early in the season with the Van Ert trap. I can't see the advantage of this new style box. Have any of you used it?
Bruni HaydlJefferson Co.
So sad. I remember masses of them arriving at our feeder when I was a kid.
All squabbling and tussling. So many the seed was all obscured.
On Thu, Mar 6, 2025, 8:42 AM Casey Rucker <autoblock...> wrote:
> Hi, all,
>
>
>
> A lone female Evening Grosbeak appeared at the feeders here this morning.
> There have only been a few sightings in Canaan Valley so far this winter.
>
>
>
> Good birding,
>
> Casey Rucker
>
> Dry Fork, WV
>
Date: 3/5/25 8:32 pm From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - Mountain Valley Lake, Mar 5, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Wed, Mar 5, 2025 at 11:21 PM
Subject: eBird Report - Mountain Valley Lake, Mar 5, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
Mountain Valley Lake, Summers, West Virginia, US
Mar 5, 2025 11:55 AM - 12:40 PM
Protocol: Traveling
1.0 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 61 degrees, partly cloudy
20 species
Date: 3/4/25 3:56 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - Durr's Pond, Princeton, WV, Mar 3, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Tue, Mar 4, 2025 at 6:37 AM
Subject: eBird Report - Durr's Pond, Princeton, WV, Mar 3, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
Durr's Pond, Princeton, WV, Mercer, West Virginia, US
Mar 3, 2025 2:14 PM - 2:29 PM
Protocol: Traveling
0.5 mile(s)
Checklist Comments: 50 degrees, sunny
11 species
Canada Goose 33
Gadwall 7
Mourning Dove 4
Killdeer 1
Turkey Vulture 1
Blue Jay 1
American Crow 7
European Starling 11
American Robin 2
Song Sparrow 1
Northern Cardinal 1
Date: 3/4/25 3:56 am From: James Phillips <jimandjudyphillips...> Subject: Fwd: eBird Report - Glenwood Sewage Lagoons, Mar 3, 2025
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <do-not-reply...>
Date: Tue, Mar 4, 2025 at 6:34 AM
Subject: eBird Report - Glenwood Sewage Lagoons, Mar 3, 2025
To: <jimandjudyphillips...>
Glenwood Sewage Lagoons, Mercer, West Virginia, US
Mar 3, 2025 12:26 PM - 12:36 PM
Protocol: Stationary
Checklist Comments: 45 degrees, sunny
13 species
Canada Goose 9
American Wigeon 3
Mallard 8
American Black Duck 4
Redhead 3
Ring-necked Duck 46
Lesser Scaup 2
Turkey Vulture 2
Blue Jay 2
American Crow 3
Northern Mockingbird 1
American Robin 8
Northern Cardinal 1
Date: 3/3/25 8:38 am From: Casey Rucker <autoblock...> Subject: Woodcock and Fox Sparrow (Tucker)
Hi, all,
Yesterday Mimi Kibler and I were surprised to see an American Woodcock this early, on the Chris Clower Trail in Canaan Valley. And I just saw a Fox Sparrow foraging in the yard.
