Date: 7/18/25 10:45 am From: William Flack via groups.io <sparvophile...> Subject: [NEBirds] Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks in Dawson County
NEBirders—
Pleased to report the sighting of a flock of 15 Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks this morning (July 18) at Plum Creek Park in Lexington.
I arrived at the park at about 10 a.m. and saw the ducks on the grass field just south of the park pond. I walked around the pond to get closer, and as I did several flew up from the pond itself and joined the flock on the grass. There, they seemed fairly approachable: I was able to get to within about 100 feet of them. Unfortunately, I hadn't thought to bring my camera, and my phone camera has no zoom. The photo that I got might suffice for identification, but not much more than that.
I haven't yet reported the birds on eBird, but will do so before long.
Date: 7/14/25 10:02 am From: Jacob C. Cooper via groups.io <cooperj2...> Subject: [NEBirds] Boone & surrounding counties birding
Hi all,
Yesterday (Sunday, July 13th), Peggy Huss, Robin Harding, and I did a big loop of east-central part of the state. Our goal was to help fill in our state maps namely, Peggy had bever birded Merrick, Nance, Boone, or Greeley counties before, and I had never birded Boone. Robin, who had extensive notes from birding the region with Lanny, guided us to some of her favorite birding spots in the area.
We started in Bader Park, Merrick County. We had a total of 39 species there, which isnt bad for late July. While we were along the river, Robin spotted a flyover Spotted Sandpiper, followed soon after by a flyover Black Tern. We had three species of vireo singing along the riparian strip (Bells, Warbling, and Red-eyed) and we were thoroughly impressed by a Cedar Waxwing flycatching swallow-like over one of the lakes.
From here, we worked out way north towards Fullerton where we found some flooded cornfields just south of the Nance-Merrick count line on Highway 14. This ended up being one of our best spots of the day. Not long after arriving, we spotted two Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks flying across the highway they eventually disappeared to the northeast over the feedlot, but it would be worth checking this site again. These ducks were a life bird for Peggy and, from what we can tell, these would be a first county record for Merrick. At the same fields, we had a group of 18 Lesser Yellowlegs flying around, as well as some Spotted Sandpipers, Killdeer, and a lone Pectoral Sandpiper plying the shore. We had more Black Terns here as well and we spotted a Black-crowned Night Heron out in the middle of the flooded corn stubble Peggys second life bird of the day. The heron eventually took off, circling around before heading south.
We cross the county line into Nance, and drove 270th road, which was marked as good on Robins maps. We ended up having 25 species on this road, including two Indigo Buntings. Next, we headed towards some wetlands at the corner of 555th and Hwy 14 Robin knew about, and we were immediately greeted by the raucous songs of Marsh Wrens (they sounded like eastern birds to us). As we sat there with the windows down, Peggy and Robin looked at each other and in near-unison said Bittern! I got out of the car and was delighted to hear the hollow coos of a Least Bittern coming from near 555th Road. Despite our efforts, we were unable to obtain looks at this bird, but we thoroughly enjoyed hearing it sing. This was a state bird for me, Peggys third life bird of the day(!), and it appears to be a first county record for Nance per eBird and the NOU website. After a quick check of the Fullerton Cemetery, we decided to head north into Boone and get our next new county of the day.
We explored southern Boone County a little bit and then started heading north towards the grasslands. On the way, we stopped at another road that Robin had marked on her maps - 205th road out of Loretto, which weaves through Bur Oak hillsides before emerging in nice prairie that has recently had large amount of cedar removed. We had our typical suite of grassland and woodland birds, but right at the end of our drive we stumbled across two Says Phoebes, one of which looked like a young bird. Out next stop was the Olson Nature Preserve, where we walked around for about a half hour and found 30 species of birds, including some Eastern Phoebes using the shelter by the parking area. We wrapped up our Boone County birding with Beaver Valley Road and the adjacent grassland, where we had 80 Dickcissels in about a ten mile drive. We also had good numbers of Bobolinks in the wet grassland and Grasshopper Sparrows in the drier areas. Our highlights on this stretch included Solitary Sandpipers and Soras along Beaver Valley Road in the marshes.
Our next county of the day was Greeley County which, when measured by the number of complete eBird checklists, is the least birded county in the entire state. We went to two cemeteries on the north side of Spalding, where the heat of the day kept activity low but we nonetheless had 17 species, including our only Purple Martins of the day. At the water control structure on the south side of Spalding, we had Spotted Sandpiper, Solitary Sandpiper, three Least Sandpipers, and some Killdeer. As we were leaving Spalding, we had a flyover flock of 15 Killdeer. Our only other major stop in Greeley County was the Happy Jack Chalk Mine, where we had a Spotted Towhee.
At this point, we started heading back towards Buffalo County, making a quick stop at Davis Creek Reservoir, where we probably saw more people than birds. Our last fun find of the day in nearby northeastern Sherman County, where we stumbled across a group of ~575 Bank Swallows by some small ponds. There was one Cliff Swallow mixed in, and we had two random Ring-billed Gulls fly by as we were watching the swallows as well.
Date: 7/13/25 5:06 pm From: Don and Shirley Maas via groups.io <snowbirds2012...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Howard County
Thanks for your posts. Look forward bto them.
Birding here in AZ. Is very early morning.
Got a Bobcat this morning and twenty foot look at perched TV at Usery Regional Park
this am.
Return to NE plans on hold due to illness of my bother.
Don Maas
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County, AZ
😊🌴🌵🌴🌵🏠
>
> On Jul 13, 2025 at 4:11 PM, <Robin Harding via groups.io (mailto:<pine2siskin4...>)> wrote:
>
>
>
> Nebraska birders,
>
> Bill Flack and I birded in Howard County on Saturday, July 12. We started fairly early in Dannebrog on the hike/bike trail. We began the walk near the water tower and went around the sewage lagoons. We started to walk into the woods but were soon encouraged to turn back by the mosquitoes, who were thick and thirsty. We continued along the main trail and decided to take the long loop, which goes around the north edge of town and then back to the water tower.
>
> We saw and heard thirty-seven species including a few Spotted Sandpipers, Red-eyed Vireos, a Rose-breasted Grosbeak, a couple Bell’s Vireos, some Towhees, Cedar Waxwings, a Field Sparrow and a Great Crested Flycatcher. The Towhees sounded to me like Spotted but we did not see any of them. We enjoyed three lovely hours walking the trail.
>
> We weren’t quite ready to call it a day so we drove to Boelus along county roads. The scenery is beautiful and the plants are still green. We stopped at Fries Park which is on the south bank of the Middle Loup River. We saw and heard twenty-three species. The highlights were a Least Tern and an Indigo Bunting.
>
> All of our bird sightings are on ebird.
>
> Robin Harding
> Shelton, Nebraska
>
>
>
>
Date: 7/13/25 4:11 pm From: Robin Harding via groups.io <pine2siskin4...> Subject: [NEBirds] Howard County
Nebraska birders,
Bill Flack and I birded in Howard County on Saturday, July 12. We started
fairly early in Dannebrog on the hike/bike trail. We began the walk near
the water tower and went around the sewage lagoons. We started to walk
into the woods but were soon encouraged to turn back by the mosquitoes, who
were thick and thirsty. We continued along the main trail and decided to
take the long loop, which goes around the north edge of town and then back
to the water tower.
We saw and heard thirty-seven species including a few Spotted Sandpipers,
Red-eyed Vireos, a Rose-breasted Grosbeak, a couple Bell’s Vireos, some
Towhees, Cedar Waxwings, a Field Sparrow and a Great Crested Flycatcher.
The Towhees sounded to me like Spotted but we did not see any of them. We
enjoyed three lovely hours walking the trail.
We weren’t quite ready to call it a day so we drove to Boelus along county
roads. The scenery is beautiful and the plants are still green. We
stopped at Fries Park which is on the south bank of the Middle Loup River.
We saw and heard twenty-three species. The highlights were a Least Tern
and an Indigo Bunting.
Date: 7/11/25 10:08 am From: Gordon Warrick via groups.io <prubinus...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Feeding Brown-head Cowbird juvenile in Sarpy County
Interesting observation and outcome.
On Thursday, July 10, 2025, 07:10:05 PM CDT, David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc...> wrote:
The BHCO died. The BASWs tried to feed it but the fledgling remained hidden. The BASW could not consistently reach it. The adult BHCOs moved on and have not returned to my yard. The BASW retreated to their nesting location. Seriously reduced the action in my yard.
Dave Cunningham
On Fri, Jul 4, 2025 at 10:03 AM David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc...> wrote:
Linda,
Great point. I have noticed about 4 BHCOs hanging around and usually at least one with 50 meters at all times.
Thanks for pointing that out. Dave
On Fri, Jul 4, 2025, 8:37 AM Linda Ferring via groups.io <ronandlinda22...> wrote:
I have wondered how the cowbird hatchling knows it is a cowbird, after being raised by other species. I have read and once seen how adult cowbirds come near the hatchling and speak to it in the nest. Then when it fledges, it finds the cowbird flock, as we have all seen. Let us know if you notice adult cowbirds talking to your hatchling?Linda Ferring, Blair
Date: 7/10/25 5:10 pm From: David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Feeding Brown-head Cowbird juvenile in Sarpy County
The BHCO died. The BASWs tried to feed it but the fledgling remained
hidden. The BASW could not consistently reach it. The adult BHCOs moved
on and have not returned to my yard. The BASW retreated to their nesting
location. Seriously reduced the action in my yard.
Dave Cunningham
On Fri, Jul 4, 2025 at 10:03 AM David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Linda,
>
> Great point. I have noticed about 4 BHCOs hanging around and usually at
> least one with 50 meters at all times.
>
> Thanks for pointing that out.
> Dave
>
> On Fri, Jul 4, 2025, 8:37 AM Linda Ferring via groups.io <ronandlinda22=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> I have wondered how the cowbird hatchling knows it is a cowbird, after
>> being raised by other species. I have read and once seen how adult cowbirds
>> come near the hatchling and speak to it in the nest. Then when it fledges,
>> it finds the cowbird flock, as we have all seen. Let us know if you notice
>> adult cowbirds talking to your hatchling?
>> Linda Ferring, Blair
>>
>
>
>
Date: 7/9/25 5:21 pm From: Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
As I understand it, this is being looked at as the lone world checklist going forward. I agree it is a bit conservative, waiting on pending genetic studies in many cases to resolve various taxonomic issues. I think to get agreement among the various list owners AviList had to be somewhat conservative.
I do think it's a great start.
Ross
________________________________
From: <NEBirds...> <NEBirds...> on behalf of Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown...>
Sent: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 7:13 PM
To: <NEBirds...> <NEBirds...>
Subject: Re: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
A note on the list overall, it seems like it takes a fairly conservative approach, lumping a lot of species that don't have sufficient studies completed yet. For example, lumping all Swamphen.
One bird that I do notice that will be added to the state list comes from an East/West split of the Warbling Vireo!
Interesting to see if/when the other authorities incorporate this taxonomy.
Finally a unified world list with all the major players cooperating!
NEW WORLD LIST: 11,131 SPECIES
The major world checklists for birds of the world - the IOC, Clements/eBird, and Birdlife International/Handbook of Birds of the Word – have merged into a single unified list announced last month. This means that, for the first time, there is one global checklist of all bird species found on planet Earth.
It is called AviList, and it contains 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders.
Until now, ornithologists, conservationists, and birders have used a selection of global checklists, each with its own rationale over what constitutes a bird species. AviList, intended to harmonize the global checklists, has been developed by the Working Group on Avian Checklists, with representatives from BirdLife International, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the American Ornithological Society, the International Ornithologists’ Union, and Avibase.
The AviList team worked for four years to make this all possible. Of course, there will be a time of adjustment. For example, BirdLife International will gradually adopt the unified bird list, along with some systematic background checks that will need to be run concerning the conservation status of various species.
Once fully aligned, the benefits for sustainable taxonomic work, global consensus, and clarity over conservation priorities are immense.
The AviList checklist is free for anyone to use and provides available open access in several formats.
Read more on this significant development here, from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology:
Date: 7/9/25 5:13 pm From: Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
A note on the list overall, it seems like it takes a fairly conservative
approach, lumping a lot of species that don't have sufficient studies
completed yet. For example, lumping all Swamphen.
One bird that I do notice that will be added to the state list comes from
an East/West split of the Warbling Vireo!
Interesting to see if/when the other authorities incorporate this taxonomy.
- Tobin Brown
On Tue, Jul 8, 2025, 1:07 PM Ann Johnson via groups.io <aj=
<hologrambirds.com...> wrote:
Date: 7/9/25 5:55 am From: pastorpaultdunbar via groups.io <pastorpaultdunbar...> Subject: [NEBirds] Raven sighting follow-up
Just saw Stephen Brenner’s report of C. Raven in Banner Co. — In one of the 2 accompanying photos, is that a dead meadowlark up on the telephone pole? Was the raven eating it?
Date: 7/8/25 11:07 am From: Ann Johnson via groups.io <aj...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
Hallelujah!
From: <NEBirds...> <NEBirds...> On Behalf Of Ross Silcock
Sent: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 12:15 PM
To: NEBIRDS <NEBIRDS...>
Subject: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
FYI-
Finally a unified world list with all the major players cooperating!
NEW WORLD LIST: 11,131 SPECIES
The major world checklists for birds of the world - the IOC, Clements/eBird, and Birdlife International/Handbook of Birds of the Word – have merged into a single unified list announced last month. This means that, for the first time, there is one global checklist of all bird species found on planet Earth.
It is called AviList, and it contains 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders.
Until now, ornithologists, conservationists, and birders have used a selection of global checklists, each with its own rationale over what constitutes a bird species. AviList, intended to harmonize the global checklists, has been developed by the Working Group on Avian Checklists, with representatives from BirdLife International, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the American Ornithological Society, the International Ornithologists’ Union, and Avibase.
The AviList team worked for four years to make this all possible. Of course, there will be a time of adjustment. For example, BirdLife International will gradually adopt the unified bird list, along with some systematic background checks that will need to be run concerning the conservation status of various species.
Once fully aligned, the benefits for sustainable taxonomic work, global consensus, and clarity over conservation priorities are immense.
The AviList checklist is free for anyone to use and provides available open access in several formats.
Read more on this significant development here, from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology:
Date: 7/8/25 11:01 am From: Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
Ross,
Over 11000 species. I was still living the high 10,000 world mark.
Does this new list include extinct species or have I just missed being an
up-to-date person!
It is a great accomplishment to have these lists combined into one
resource!
Thanks so much for sharing. BTW any issue with flooding for you or your
Texas friends? How sad that all is!
*Paul O. Roisen*
*Woodbury County, IA*
*Mobile 712-301-2817*
On Tue, Jul 8, 2025 at 12:15 PM Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock=
<rosssilcock.com...> wrote:
Date: 7/8/25 10:15 am From: Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock...> Subject: [NEBirds] New World Bird List
FYI-
Finally a unified world list with all the major players cooperating!
NEW WORLD LIST: 11,131 SPECIES
The major world checklists for birds of the world - the IOC, Clements/eBird, and Birdlife International/Handbook of Birds of the Word – have merged into a single unified list announced last month. This means that, for the first time, there is one global checklist of all bird species found on planet Earth.
It is called AviList, and it contains 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders.
Until now, ornithologists, conservationists, and birders have used a selection of global checklists, each with its own rationale over what constitutes a bird species. AviList, intended to harmonize the global checklists, has been developed by the Working Group on Avian Checklists, with representatives from BirdLife International, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the American Ornithological Society, the International Ornithologists’ Union, and Avibase.
The AviList team worked for four years to make this all possible. Of course, there will be a time of adjustment. For example, BirdLife International will gradually adopt the unified bird list, along with some systematic background checks that will need to be run concerning the conservation status of various species.
Once fully aligned, the benefits for sustainable taxonomic work, global consensus, and clarity over conservation priorities are immense.
The AviList checklist is free for anyone to use and provides available open access in several formats.
Read more on this significant development here, from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology:
Date: 7/6/25 2:19 pm From: Robin Harding via groups.io <pine2siskin4...> Subject: [NEBirds] Hall County
Nebraska birders,
July 06, I birded some Hall County locations in the morning. The Shelton
WTP did not have many birds, possibly caused by activity at the nearby
grain elevator. They were loading a train. The Shelton cemetery was
pleasant but I saw only common species.
I birded Hannon WPA (also known as Hall County WPA). In the Public Access
Atlas, it’s called Hannon but on ebird, it’s called Hall County. Does
anyone know why the difference? I saw mostly common species, however, I
always enjoy Bobwhites. My late husband, Lanny, called them “magic birds”
because they could just magically appear out of nowhere and then just
disappear into thin air. I also saw a small flock of Upland Sandpipers. I
don’t usually see more than one at a time so I looked closely to make sure
that’s what they were. I also heard one do the wolf whistle.
I paused to look at a hawk where Cameron Road goes over the Wood River.
The hawk was smaller than a typical Red-tailed Hawk. It was being chased
by Barn Swallows. When the hawk banked, I saw wide black and white tail
bands. I did not see dark patagial marks. That makes it a Broad-winged
Hawk. Ebird wanted details.
I walked in the Cameron Cemetery but cut it short because of thirsty
mosquitoes. There’s wild woods with a creek north of the cemetery. I got
a fairly good list of birds. I heard a Spotted Towhee that was not
typical. Maybe it was a hybrid or maybe a young bird learning its song. I
wish that I could have recorded it.
About a mile east of the Cameron Cemetery, I saw a sign for the “Kow Pyle
Park.” The place looked like an abandoned baseball park. There was a
small herd of cattle in the park.
Date: 7/4/25 4:48 pm From: Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Ashford Scout Camp
Hi Robin,
Here's an approximate location of the parking area from the field trip in
May. We hiked west from there, into Thurston and then Dakota county (just
past where the valley forks north). It's probably not a hotspot because
it's private property.
On Fri, Jul 4, 2025, 7:43 PM Robin Harding via groups.io <pine2siskin4=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Nebraska birders,
>
> I'm trying to enter an historical bird list into ebird. The list is dated
> May 18, 1997. Most of the day, we were in the Ashford Scout Camp, near
> Homer in Dakota or Thurston County. I can't find this location on ebird's
> maps. I'm surprised it's not a hot spot. Wasn't it one of the field trip
> destinations last May at the tri-state meeting? What am I missing?
>
> Robin Harding
> Shelton, Nebraska
>
>
>
Date: 7/4/25 4:43 pm From: Robin Harding via groups.io <pine2siskin4...> Subject: [NEBirds] Ashford Scout Camp
Nebraska birders,
I'm trying to enter an historical bird list into ebird. The list is dated May 18, 1997. Most of the day, we were in the Ashford Scout Camp, near Homer in Dakota or Thurston County. I can't find this location on ebird's maps. I'm surprised it's not a hot spot. Wasn't it one of the field trip destinations last May at the tri-state meeting? What am I missing?
Date: 7/4/25 8:04 am From: David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Feeding Brown-head Cowbird juvenile in Sarpy County
Linda,
Great point. I have noticed about 4 BHCOs hanging around and usually at
least one with 50 meters at all times.
Thanks for pointing that out.
Dave
On Fri, Jul 4, 2025, 8:37 AM Linda Ferring via groups.io <ronandlinda22=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> I have wondered how the cowbird hatchling knows it is a cowbird, after
> being raised by other species. I have read and once seen how adult cowbirds
> come near the hatchling and speak to it in the nest. Then when it fledges,
> it finds the cowbird flock, as we have all seen. Let us know if you notice
> adult cowbirds talking to your hatchling?
> Linda Ferring, Blair
>
>
Date: 7/4/25 7:01 am From: flyingcarlini via groups.io <flyingcarlini...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Feeding Brown-head Cowbird juvenile in Sarpy County
There was a memorable study that caught young cowbirds sneaking out at night and returning in the morning (much like teenagers who sneak out of their parents' house at night!)Juvenile cowbirds sneak out at night
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Juvenile cowbirds sneak out at night
A new study explores how a young cowbird, left as an egg in the nest of a different species, grows up to know it...
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Date: 7/4/25 6:37 am From: Linda Ferring via groups.io <ronandlinda22...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Feeding Brown-head Cowbird juvenile in Sarpy County
I have wondered how the cowbird hatchling knows it is a cowbird, after being raised by other species. I have read and once seen how adult cowbirds come near the hatchling and speak to it in the nest. Then when it fledges, it finds the cowbird flock, as we have all seen. Let us know if you notice adult cowbirds talking to your hatchling?
Linda Ferring, Blair
Date: 7/3/25 12:38 pm From: David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc...> Subject: [NEBirds] Feeding Brown-head Cowbird juvenile in Sarpy County
I'm sure many of you have watched CHSP or HOSP feed a BHCO fledgling or juvenile. It is quite the sight to see. The past few days I have watched 2 BASWs attempting to feed a BHCO fledgling with some success. This is the first time I've watched swallows feeding a BHCO. The BHCO started out hiding in my neighbor's tomato plants. This made it difficult for the swallows to get to the BHCO. After 2 days the BHCO decided it had to come into the open, so it climbed close to the top of the tomato plant. At that point, the BASWs were able to feed it, although they continued to struggle. The BASWs attacked an AMRO that got close and the robin seemed clueless but moved on. The proud parents are definitely protective and putting their all into it. I attached a few photos to capture the situation. Interesting watching how fast the BASW can gather a mouth full of insects to feed the juvenile.
No doubt many of you have seen similar instances and would be interested in hearing some topical stories.
I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Independence Day.
Dave Cunningham Sarpy County [image: 4Q4A2443BHCO.JPG] [image: 4Q4A2444BHCO.JPG] [image: 4Q4A2445BHCO.JPG]
Date: 7/1/25 5:21 pm From: Paul Hubert via groups.io <paulhubert123...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Scarlet Tanager Omaha
Thanks for the suggestions and information. My opinion is pretty
prejudiced because I really want to have a pair of Scarlet Tanagers nesting
in my neighborhood.
Too, it seems awfully early to be Fall. There are lots of birds still
on their nests, though I suppose they could be raising multiple clutches.
Also, each year I hear the tanger at about the same place, +/- about
50 feet, so I'm hoping it's a territorial thing with the nest.
Thanks again, and I hope a really cool bird moves into your neighborhood
too!
Chip Hubert
Omaha
On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 12:54 PM Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Very nice information, Ross. You always amaze me with your knowledge and
> continued sharing of this knowledge.
> We are blessed to have you as record-keeper and database for all things
> "birdy".
>
> God Bless.
> *Paul O. Roisen*
> *Woodbury County, IA*
> *Mobile 712-301-2817*
>
>
> On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 11:26 AM Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock=
> <rosssilcock.com...> wrote:
>
>> Hi all,
>>
>> Copilot to the rescue. I'd guess my highlighted reasons are most likely
>> for tanagers and cuckoos.
>>
>> *Why Passerines Sing in Fall*
>>
>> - *Territory Defense*: Many resident species like Bewick’s Wrens and
>> Song Sparrows stay put year-round. As young birds disperse in autumn,
>> adults sing to reassert their winter territories and discourage intruders.
>> - *Social Structuring*: In flocking species like White-crowned and
>> Golden-crowned Sparrows, song helps establish social hierarchies within
>> winter flocks. It’s less about romance and more about rank.
>> - *Practice Makes Perfect*: Juvenile birds often rehearse their songs
>> in fall. These “subsong” attempts—think of them as the bird version of
>> vocal warm-ups—help them refine the complex tunes they’ll need come spring.
>> - *Hormonal Triggers*: Some species, like European Starlings,
>> experience a post-molt spike in testosterone, which can reignite singing
>> behavior even outside the breeding season3.
>> - *Photoperiod Sensitivity*: Others, like White-crowned Sparrows, are
>> less hormonally driven in fall but still sing for social cohesion.
>> Interestingly, even females and juveniles may join in, suggesting song
>> serves broader purposes than just mating.
>>
>> Ross
>>
>> Ross Silcock
>> 6810 Tournament Drive,
>> Houston, TX 77069
>>
>> Co-editor Birds of Nebraska Online
>> Editor Seasonal Reports, Nebraska Bird Review.
>>
>>
>
>
Date: 7/1/25 12:18 pm From: Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Nebraska Big Year - June Recap
Tobin,
I agree that you have every reason to be optimistic about achieving your
goal for the Big Year. It is a privilege to know Pastor Paul and he is
very gracious and he is routing for you as he affirmed when we did a day of
birding down around Adams county together.
Hammond's, Gray, and Dusky have all eluded me. Cassin's Kingbirds have
been seen reasonably regularly over the years in western Kimball county
close to the Wyoming border. Black-throated Gray Warbler, another bird I
need, has been seen off and on out west. Cassin's Vireo and Cassin's
Kingbirds were seen around the 20-21th of September 2013 in Morrill County
during the NOU Fall meeting. Unfortunately, I cannot give you the exact
location as I did not keep very good notes back then.
Nemesis Bird (Western Sandpiper if you can believe that).
Black-throated Blue has also managed to avoid my detection.
God Bless.
*Paul O. Roisen*
*Woodbury County, IA*
*Mobile 712-301-2817*
On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 1:26 PM Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Paul,
>
> I'm only 20 birds away from surpassing the record of 347, and he's rooting
> for me! Of the remaining "regular" birds, the most likely 12 left are in
> this approximate order (new state birds in italics):
>
> LeConte's Sparrow
> Rufous Hummingbird
> Townsend's Warbler
> MacGillivray's Warbler
> Sabine's Gull
> Sprague's Pipit
> *Calliope Hummingbird*
> Nelson's Sparrow
> Cassin's Vireo
> *Dusky Flycatcher*
> Hammond's Flycatcher
> Red-naped Sapsucker.
>
> I have plans to be in the right places at the right time for all of these.
>
> If I can pick up those 12, that leaves 8 more from this pool: *Great
> Black-backed Gull*, Laughing Gull, Jaeger sp., *Gray Flycatcher*,
> post-breeding wanderers (White Ibis, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, etc), *Black
> Duck* (which seems very hard these days) and winter irruptive species (*Snowy
> Owl, Cassin's Finch, Bohemian Waxwing*, Pine Grosbeak,* Evening Grosbeak,
> Mountain Chickadee*)
>
> And besides those there are still plenty of other "casual" visitors
> possible: Pine Warbler, *Black-legged Kittiwake, Red Phalarope* and more.
> So, we'll just have to see how things shake out, but I'm pretty optimistic.
>
>
> Tobin Brown
> Lancaster County
> https://ebird.org/profile/NDA1ODIzNg/US-NE >
>
>
Date: 7/1/25 11:26 am From: Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Nebraska Big Year - June Recap
Paul,
I'm only 20 birds away from surpassing the record of 347, and he's rooting for me! Of the remaining "regular" birds, the most likely 12 left are in this approximate order (new state birds in italics):
I have plans to be in the right places at the right time for all of these.
If I can pick up those 12, that leaves 8 more from this pool: *Great Black-backed Gull*, Laughing Gull, Jaeger sp., *Gray Flycatcher*, post-breeding wanderers (White Ibis, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, etc), *Black Duck* (which seems very hard these days) and winter irruptive species (*Snowy Owl, Cassin's Finch, Bohemian Waxwing*, Pine Grosbeak,* Evening Grosbeak, Mountain Chickadee*)
And besides those there are still plenty of other "casual" visitors possible: Pine Warbler, *Black-legged Kittiwake, Red Phalarope* and more. So, we'll just have to see how things shake out, but I'm pretty optimistic.
Date: 7/1/25 11:10 am From: Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Nebraska Big Year - June Recap
Tobin,
If I have this correct, you need 21 species to tie the venerable Pastor
Paul, what remaining birds do you foresee as likely/possible species still
available to be seen in the next 6 months?
Keep on "truckin" you have achieved an incredible start half-way through
the year.
God Bless.
*Paul O. Roisen*
*Woodbury County, IA*
*Mobile 712-301-2817*
On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 11:39 AM Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
Date: 7/1/25 10:54 am From: Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Scarlet Tanager Omaha
Very nice information, Ross. You always amaze me with your knowledge and
continued sharing of this knowledge.
We are blessed to have you as record-keeper and database for all things
"birdy".
God Bless.
*Paul O. Roisen*
*Woodbury County, IA*
*Mobile 712-301-2817*
On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 11:26 AM Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock=
<rosssilcock.com...> wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> Copilot to the rescue. I'd guess my highlighted reasons are most likely
> for tanagers and cuckoos.
>
> *Why Passerines Sing in Fall*
>
> - *Territory Defense*: Many resident species like Bewick’s Wrens and
> Song Sparrows stay put year-round. As young birds disperse in autumn,
> adults sing to reassert their winter territories and discourage intruders.
> - *Social Structuring*: In flocking species like White-crowned and
> Golden-crowned Sparrows, song helps establish social hierarchies within
> winter flocks. It’s less about romance and more about rank.
> - *Practice Makes Perfect*: Juvenile birds often rehearse their songs
> in fall. These “subsong” attempts—think of them as the bird version of
> vocal warm-ups—help them refine the complex tunes they’ll need come spring.
> - *Hormonal Triggers*: Some species, like European Starlings,
> experience a post-molt spike in testosterone, which can reignite singing
> behavior even outside the breeding season3.
> - *Photoperiod Sensitivity*: Others, like White-crowned Sparrows, are
> less hormonally driven in fall but still sing for social cohesion.
> Interestingly, even females and juveniles may join in, suggesting song
> serves broader purposes than just mating.
>
> Ross
>
> Ross Silcock
> 6810 Tournament Drive,
> Houston, TX 77069
>
> Co-editor Birds of Nebraska Online
> Editor Seasonal Reports, Nebraska Bird Review.
>
>
>
Date: 7/1/25 9:41 am From: Rita Cunha via groups.io <rita23cunha...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Scarlet Tanager Omaha
On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 11:26 AM Ross Silcock via groupsp.io <silcock=
<rosssilcock.com...> wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> Copilot to the rescue. I'd guess my highlightedv. reasons are most likely
> for tanagers and cuckoos.
>
> *Why Passerines Sing in Fallmc CT ff y j*
>
> - *Territory Defense*: Many resident species like Bewick’s Wrens and
> Song Sparrows stay put year-round. As young birds disperse in autumn,
> adults sing to them
>
>
> - their reassert their winter territories and discourage intruders.
> - * Com f*
>
>
> - In flocking species like White-crowned and Golden-crowned Sparrows,
> song helps establish social hierarchies within winter flocks. It’s less
> about romance and more about rank.
> - *OkPractice Makes Perfect*: Juvenile birds often rehearse their
> songs in fall. These “subsong” attempts—think of them as the bird version
> of vocal warm-ups—help them refine the complex tunes they’ll need come
> spring.
> - *Hormonal Triggers*: Some species, like European Starlings,
> experience a post-molt spike in testosterone, which can reignite singing
> behavior even outside the breeding season3.
> - *Photoperiod Sensitivity*: Others, like White-crowned Sparrows, are
> less hormonally driven in fall but still sing for social cohesion.
> Interestingly, even females and juveniles may join in, suggesting song
> serves broader purposes than just mating.
>
> Ross
>
> Ross Silcock
> 6810 Tournament Drive,
> Houston, TX 77069
>
> Co-editor Birds of Nebraska Online
> Editor Seasonal Reports, Nebraska Bird Review.
>
>
>
Date: 7/1/25 9:40 am From: Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown...> Subject: [NEBirds] Nebraska Big Year - June Recap
Nebraska birders,
In June I added 6 species to my year list and 3 to my state list. Not as much variety as May, but some very high quality birds. 6 months down, 6 to go.
Date: 7/1/25 9:26 am From: Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Scarlet Tanager Omaha
Hi all,
Copilot to the rescue. I'd guess my highlighted reasons are most likely for tanagers and cuckoos.
Why Passerines Sing in Fall
*
Territory Defense: Many resident species like Bewick’s Wrens and Song Sparrows stay put year-round. As young birds disperse in autumn, adults sing to reassert their winter territories and discourage intruders.
*
Social Structuring: In flocking species like White-crowned and Golden-crowned Sparrows, song helps establish social hierarchies within winter flocks. It’s less about romance and more about rank.
*
Practice Makes Perfect: Juvenile birds often rehearse their songs in fall. These “subsong” attempts—think of them as the bird version of vocal warm-ups—help them refine the complex tunes they’ll need come spring.
*
Hormonal Triggers: Some species, like European Starlings, experience a post-molt spike in testosterone, which can reignite singing behavior even outside the breeding season3.
*
Photoperiod Sensitivity: Others, like White-crowned Sparrows, are less hormonally driven in fall but still sing for social cohesion. Interestingly, even females and juveniles may join in, suggesting song serves broader purposes than just mating.
Ross
Ross Silcock
6810 Tournament Drive,
Houston, TX 77069
Date: 7/1/25 8:17 am From: Jerry Toll via groups.io <carolnhattie...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Scarlet Tanager Omaha
Chip, One possibility is that the the Scarlet Tanager didn't breed in your neighborhood and/or this is a case of post breeding dispersal. I live near you in the Florence area and a few days ago I heard a yellow- billed cuckoo near my house. I had not heard one before or since. Just passing through I guess.
On Mon, Jun 30, 2025, 1:46 PM Paul Hubert via groups.io <paulhubert123= <gmail.com...> wrote:
> Every morning at about 5:00 am till about 545 am, I walk the same path in > my neighborhood (Raven Oaks). I've been walking this path every > morning for 6 years, listening to birds. Unfortunately, I've been to busy > or lazy to log my observations in ebird. > This morning I heard a Scarlet Tanager for the first time this year. > I've heard them previous years. > It seems very late in the year for a bird to start singing. Does > anyone have a guess as to why it'd start so late? > Thanks for any opinions. > Chip Hubert > Omaha > >
Date: 6/30/25 11:46 am From: Paul Hubert via groups.io <paulhubert123...> Subject: [NEBirds] Scarlet Tanager Omaha
Every morning at about 5:00 am till about 545 am, I walk the same path in my neighborhood (Raven Oaks). I've been walking this path every morning for 6 years, listening to birds. Unfortunately, I've been to busy or lazy to log my observations in ebird. This morning I heard a Scarlet Tanager for the first time this year. I've heard them previous years. It seems very late in the year for a bird to start singing. Does anyone have a guess as to why it'd start so late? Thanks for any opinions. Chip Hubert Omaha
Date: 6/26/25 3:00 pm From: David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Pacific Loon
Sorry. I meant to say Red-throated Loon.
On Thu, Jun 26, 2025, 3:46 PM David Cunningham via groups.io <gopacgodc=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> The Pacific Loon is still at Lake Ogallala, west side of the diversion dam
> (far east dam).
>
> It is just floating. It is not diving. It is by itself. It is about 75
> meters off the dam and about half way across.
>
> Dave
>
>
Date: 6/26/25 6:23 am From: Tobin Brown via groups.io <tobinjbrown...> Subject: [NEBirds] Red-throated Loon continues at Lake Ogallala
Steven Mlodinow found a breeding plumage Red-throated Loon at Lake Ogallala yesterday, and I'm happy to report that the bird is still here today. Best viewing is from the diversion dam on the far east side. I was able to get quite close by walking out to the middle of the dam!
Great looking bird, a new state bird for myself, and state big year #328!
Date: 6/25/25 8:43 am From: Thomas Labedz via groups.io <telabedz...> Subject: [NEBirds] Wood Thrush
A Wood Thrush was giving a good vocal representation this morning (25 Jun 2025, ~9:30 a.m. CDT) in Wilderness Park near the Densmore Park entrance. More specifically, west of the railroad tracks / Jamaica North Trail and south of the new connector trail to the Salt Creek bridge, but very close to the Jamaica North Trail. Thomas Labedz, Lincoln
Date: 6/24/25 7:43 pm From: Paul L. Pearson via groups.io <Propearson...> Subject: [NEBirds] (No bird sighting) BBS discussion-$0 funding proposed for USGS Ecosystems
From the recent posts, it is clear that many people in this group enjoy both running and discussing Breeding Bird Survey routes. This post is intended to be informational and NOT a discussion-starter. (especially a partisan political one that would not be appropriate for this forum). I hope that our shared love of birds and other natural communities should be enough of a reason to bring up this subject respectfully.
As it stands today, the federal budget proposal (aka “Big Beautiful Bill”) currently being considered would be catastrophic to our natural communities as well as the protection and scientific understanding of them. Future discussion of BBS routes, bird banding, and many species of birds may be limited to nothing but grief and nostalgia if this comes to pass.
To wit, the US Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Lab and Breeding Bird Surveys would almost certainly be eliminated as the USGS Ecosystems program would be $0 funded. As a recent American Birding Association podcast (episode 09-23) pointed out, not only does it put the future of these programs at grave risk, but Our shared love of birds and other natural communities should be enough of a reason to bring up this subjec all of the data from past Breeding Bird Surveys and banding would be at risk of being deleted.
Further, the proposed US Fish & Wildlife Service budget is $0 for all endangered species line items, including migratory bird programs. Proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act would remove protection of HABITAT for endangered species, interpreting the language “taking of” in the ESA to be literal. Simply put, you couldn’t kill an endangered species, but you could destroy 100% of the habitat where a species exists without violating the ESA. I think it is obvious what will happen to endangered species if the very habitats required for them to exist (likely the main reason they ARE endangered) are no longer protected and allowed to be sold, degraded, developed, logged, mined, polluted, or otherwise compromised.
Many of the agencies that fund or conduct scientific research or environmental programs (e.g. National Science Foundation, USGS, National Park Services, Dept of Ag, USAID, et al.) have already or will also be drastically cut, so research/testing on birds will also be severely impacted or eliminated outright as these various government entities are gutted.
If you are opposed to these changes, I encourage you to take appropriate action to make your voice…and future bird songs…heard.
--
Paul L. Pearson, PhD
President-Nebraska Ornithologists’ Union
Omaha, NE
Date: 6/24/25 6:03 pm From: Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Holbrook BBS
Teresa,
Thanks for the report and for inspiration to hit the lower tiers of
Nebraska on my next trip over into Nebraska.
God Bless.
*Paul O. Roisen*
*Woodbury County, IA*
*Mobile 712-301-2817*
On Tue, Jun 24, 2025 at 7:51 PM Theresa Pella via groups.io <pella_t=
<yahoo.com...> wrote:
> My sister-in-law and I have run the Holbrook route for about 5 years.
> This is a very rural part of the State with much cropland, but grasses and
> wooded areas too (thank you Ruthie for designing an interesting route).
> Looking through my records, the numbers and species have been fairly
> consistent. Most notably, the Northern Bobwhite always outnumbers the
> Ring-necked Pheasant and the Western Meadowlarks are singing at almost
> every stop, including the cornfields. On yesterday's count also had quite a
> few swallows (including a group of 21 Bank Swallows). The 40 species
> identified were:
>
> Northern Bobwhite 18
> Wild Turkey 10 (all together)
> Ring-necked Pheasant 4
> Rock Pigeon 1
> Eurasian Collared-Dove 1
> Mourning Dove 25
> Chimney Swift 1
> Killdeer 1
> Turkey Vulture 17
> Red-tailed Hawk 2
> Red-headed Woodpecker 2
> unid. Red/Yellow Shafted Northern Flicker 1
> Great Crested Flycatcher 1
> Western Kingbird 9
> Eastern Kingbird 15
> Eastern Phoebe 1
> Blue Jay 4
> American Crow 3
> Horned Lark 10
> Bank Swallow 26
> Northern Rough-winged Swallow 3
> Barn Swallow 6
> Cliff Swallow 2
> Northern House Wren 3
> Brown Thrasher 2
> European Starling 1
> Eastern Bluebird 1
> American Robin 9
> American Goldfinch 2
> Western Meadowlark 41
> Orchard Oriole 3
> Baltimore Oriole 9
> Red-winged Blackbird 61
> Brown-headed Cowbird 20
> Common Grackle 9
> Yellow Warbler 4
> Northern Cardinal 6
> Blue Grosbeak 4
> Indigo Bunting 1
>
> Theresa Pella
> Lincoln NE
>
>
>
>
My sister-in-law and I have run the Holbrook route for about 5 years. This is a very rural part of the State with much cropland, but grasses and wooded areas too (thank you Ruthie for designing an interesting route). Looking through my records, the numbers and species have been fairly consistent. Most notably, the Northern Bobwhite always outnumbers the Ring-necked Pheasant and the Western Meadowlarks are singing at almost every stop, including the cornfields. On yesterday's count also had quite a few swallows (including a group of 21 Bank Swallows). The 40 species identified were:
Northern Bobwhite 18
Wild Turkey 10 (all together)
Ring-necked Pheasant 4
Rock Pigeon 1
Eurasian Collared-Dove 1
Mourning Dove 25
Chimney Swift 1
Killdeer 1
Turkey Vulture 17
Red-tailed Hawk 2
Red-headed Woodpecker 2
unid. Red/Yellow Shafted Northern Flicker 1
Great Crested Flycatcher 1
Western Kingbird 9
Eastern Kingbird 15
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue Jay 4
American Crow 3
Horned Lark 10
Bank Swallow 26
Northern Rough-winged Swallow 3
Barn Swallow 6
Cliff Swallow 2
Northern House Wren 3
Brown Thrasher 2
European Starling 1
Eastern Bluebird 1
American Robin 9
American Goldfinch 2
Western Meadowlark 41
Orchard Oriole 3
Baltimore Oriole 9
Red-winged Blackbird 61
Brown-headed Cowbird 20
Common Grackle 9
Yellow Warbler 4
Northern Cardinal 6
Blue Grosbeak 4
Indigo Bunting 1
Date: 6/24/25 4:04 am From: Shirley Maas via groups.io <dtmsem2006...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Calamus birding
Thanks for sharing
Don MaasMaricopa County, AZ
“If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government then you are doomed to live under the rules of fools. Plato“You can ignore reality, but you cannot ignore the consequences of reality.”
Don & Shirley MaasThe Maas’s have migrated to the Valley of the Sun in Mesa, AZ from Choctaw, Ok for the winter.
On Monday, June 23, 2025, 7:30 PM, Robin Harding via groups.io <pine2siskin4...> wrote:
Nebraska birders,
Paul Roisen contacted me about a county birding marathon in the Sandhills that he was planning. He invited me to join him for the Garfield and Loup County parts of the trip. We adjusted the plan a bit when the weather forecast called for 100 degree high temperatures.
Paul and I met in Burwell Saturday evening, June 21, but it was still too warm to go birding and Paul was exhausted. We talked about the places he wanted to visit and his wish list of birds. We decided to start at a roadside marsh north of Burwell where an American Bittern had been reported.
Paul and I started our birding shortly after sunrise on Sunday, June 22. Unfortunately, the wind was blowing hard already. We drove north of Burwell on highway 11. The countryside is still lush, green and beautiful. There was a lot of water in the rivers and marshes. We stopped at the marsh where the bittern had been seen. In addition to the usual birds, we heard Upland Sandpipers and Bobolinks. We also saw a Wilson’s Snipe. Sadly, we didn’t see nor hear a bittern, however, Paul added two or three new county birds. Paul hadn’t seen many common species so it was easy to add to his total.
Our next destination was Burwell’s park and diversion dam. Notable species were Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great-tailed Grackle and three Belted Kingfishers chasing each other. Maybe the resident pair was chasing an intruder. Paul added a couple more to his county list.
We stopped at the Willow Springs Banner cemetery just north of Burwell and near the east end of Pebble Creek Road. Paul hadn’t been there before and was impressed. We saw/heard several species including Great Crested Flycatcher and Red-eyed Vireo. We drove slowly along Pebble Creek Road. Paul had not been there before either. It is now on his personal list of hot spots. We identified nineteen species along the first mile of the road, including a towhee, Cedar Waxwing, and Black-capped Chickadee. Along the part of Pebble Creek Road out on the prairie, we found Grasshopper Sparrows, Bell’s Vireo, Lark Sparrow and very many Dickcissels.
We stopped at the end of the dam at Calamus Reservoir and were impressed by the huge waves that the wind was whipping up. As we were driving to Homestead Knolls, Paul said “We haven’t seen Vesper Sparrow or Field Sparrow yet.” As we entered Homestead Knolls, the first birds we saw were a Vesper Sparrow and heard a Field Sparrow. Well, if that’s going to be a trend, then what else do you want to see?
At Valley View, we heard another Red-eyed Vireo and Cedar Waxwing. At Gracie Creek, we heard a Blue Grosbeak. I heard a Willow Flycatcher but unfortunately, Paul didn’t. We tried to walk trails at Hannamon Bayou but they were not mowed and the biting insects were hungry. The wind was still howling and the temperature was approaching 90 so we called it a day. Paul added several new county birds to his Garfield and Loup County lists. I was surprised to find that Eastern Wood-Pewee was new for me in both counties. My Garfield total is 164 and my Loup is 183.
Date: 6/23/25 7:30 pm From: Robin Harding via groups.io <pine2siskin4...> Subject: [NEBirds] Calamus birding
Nebraska birders,
Paul Roisen contacted me about a county birding marathon in the Sandhills
that he was planning. He invited me to join him for the Garfield and Loup
County parts of the trip. We adjusted the plan a bit when the weather
forecast called for 100 degree high temperatures.
Paul and I met in Burwell Saturday evening, June 21, but it was still too
warm to go birding and Paul was exhausted. We talked about the places he
wanted to visit and his wish list of birds. We decided to start at a
roadside marsh north of Burwell where an American Bittern had been
reported.
Paul and I started our birding shortly after sunrise on Sunday, June 22.
Unfortunately, the wind was blowing hard already. We drove north of
Burwell on highway 11. The countryside is still lush, green and
beautiful. There was a lot of water in the rivers and marshes. We stopped
at the marsh where the bittern had been seen. In addition to the usual
birds, we heard Upland Sandpipers and Bobolinks. We also saw a Wilson’s
Snipe. Sadly, we didn’t see nor hear a bittern, however, Paul added two or
three new county birds. Paul hadn’t seen many common species so it was
easy to add to his total.
Our next destination was Burwell’s park and diversion dam. Notable species
were Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great-tailed Grackle and three Belted Kingfishers
chasing each other. Maybe the resident pair was chasing an intruder. Paul
added a couple more to his county list.
We stopped at the Willow Springs Banner cemetery just north of Burwell and
near the east end of Pebble Creek Road. Paul hadn’t been there before and
was impressed. We saw/heard several species including Great Crested
Flycatcher and Red-eyed Vireo. We drove slowly along Pebble Creek Road.
Paul had not been there before either. It is now on his personal list of
hot spots. We identified nineteen species along the first mile of the
road, including a towhee, Cedar Waxwing, and Black-capped Chickadee. Along
the part of Pebble Creek Road out on the prairie, we found Grasshopper
Sparrows, Bell’s Vireo, Lark Sparrow and very many Dickcissels.
We stopped at the end of the dam at Calamus Reservoir and were impressed by
the huge waves that the wind was whipping up. As we were driving to
Homestead Knolls, Paul said “We haven’t seen Vesper Sparrow or Field
Sparrow yet.” As we entered Homestead Knolls, the first birds we saw were
a Vesper Sparrow and heard a Field Sparrow. Well, if that’s going to be a
trend, then what else do you want to see?
At Valley View, we heard another Red-eyed Vireo and Cedar Waxwing. At
Gracie Creek, we heard a Blue Grosbeak. I heard a Willow Flycatcher but
unfortunately, Paul didn’t. We tried to walk trails at Hannamon Bayou but
they were not mowed and the biting insects were hungry. The wind was still
howling and the temperature was approaching 90 so we called it a day. Paul
added several new county birds to his Garfield and Loup County lists. I
was surprised to find that Eastern Wood-Pewee was new for me in both
counties. My Garfield total is 164 and my Loup is 183.
Date: 6/21/25 2:05 pm From: Scott Seier via groups.io <spseier...> Subject: [NEBirds] 2025 Humboldt Breeding Bird Survey
Nebraska birders:
I've enjoyed reading the Breeding Bird Survey summaries submitted by others, so I am submitting a summary of my route as well.
This is my fourth year running the Humboldt BBS route. It starts south of Humboldt, at the intersection of Highway 8 and 634th Avenue in Richardson County, and ends west of Auburn, in Nemaha County. It appears that the route was started in 2018, with data available for both 2018 and 2019. It also appears that the route was not run in 2020 or 2021, as no data is available for either year. I started running the route in 2022. This year I observed 64 species, which is an all-time high for the route, and 677 total individuals.
A few observations from this year's route:
1. I was surprised by an olive-sided flycatcher near the end of my route, in Nemaha County. Presumably, it was a late migrant. See this eBird checklist for documentation: https://ebird.org/checklist/S245510732.
2. I was also surprised by two singing alder flycatchers, both earlier in the morning in Richardson County. This is the first time I've observed an empidonax species of any type on this route.
3. Notable high counts this year include northern bobwhite (46, tied with 2024), great blue heron (4), red-headed woodpecker (10), red-bellied woodpecker (22), great-crested flycatcher (20), warbling vireo (10), red-eyed vireo (4), bluejay (31), orchard oriole (8), and common grackle (13).
4. Notable low counts were red-tailed hawk (1), cliff swallow (7), brown thrasher (4), grasshopper sparrow (3), red-winged blackbird (37), and dickcissel (67).
5. A new species for me was two upland sandpipers (previously observed by other(s) in 2018 and 2019).
6. New to the route this year include the above mentioned olive-sided flycatcher and alder flycatchers, an Eurasian collared-dove, and chimney swifts.
7. I observed signs of breeding for the following species: red-headed woodpecker, brown thrasher, red-winged blackbird, and European starling.
8. The start and end temperatures were both lows for the four years I've run the route, which makes me wonder if/how the temperatures influenced the outcomes.
See below for a a full summary of my observations.
Date: 6/20/25 2:58 pm From: Ross Silcock via groups.io <silcock...> Subject: [NEBirds] Rusty Blackbird photos?
Hi all,
I'm working on the Spring Seasonal Report for Nebraska Bird review and see the Rusty Blackbird reports by the NOU group at Winnebago WTP 17 May. The shared checklists say "some got photos", but none have been posted on eBird.
Can anyone either add a pic or two to their checklist or send one to me? Not doubting the ID of this very late bird, just curious as to its plumage.
Thanks,
Ross
Ross Silcock
6810 Tournament Drive,
Houston, TX 77069
Date: 6/20/25 2:56 pm From: Paul Roisen via groups.io <roisenp1950...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Crescent Lake Breeding Bird Survey
Tobin,
Thanks for sharing your BBS data with us. That would be a route I would
enjoy helping out some time. I don't hear well enough to actually do the
count, but I would be very happy to help out with recording the data to
help out. That area is a super neat area to bird, but I have not been
there for about 8 years.
God Bless.
*Paul O. Roisen*
*Woodbury County, IA*
*Mobile 712-301-2817*
On Wed, Jun 18, 2025 at 8:34 PM Donna and Bruce Walgren via groups.io
<Piranga...> wrote:
> Nebraska Birders,
>
>
>
> Donna and I used to do this survey. That first stop is crazy – never
> could feel comfortable with the numbers of birds calling there! We never
> had Black-necked Stilts or Prairie Chickens – so those two are great
> additions!
>
> Thanks for sharing!
>
>
>
> Bruce & Donna
>
>
>
> *From:* <NEBirds...> [mailto:<NEBirds...>] *On Behalf Of *Tobin
> Brown via groups.io
> *Sent:* Monday, June 16, 2025 10:09 AM
> *To:* <NEbirds...>
> *Subject:* [NEBirds] Crescent Lake Breeding Bird Survey
>
>
>
> Nebraska Birders,
>
> Inspired by Jason Thiele's reports, I figured I'd share my experience as
> well!
>
>
>
> On Friday I conducted my first breeding bird survey at Crescent Lake.
> Having never done a survey before, I was a little worried about the rushed
> nature of a 3 minute count, but I think I did pretty well! I counted just
> over 1000 individuals of 57 species (plus a non-count Sora and domestic
> Peafowl)! 20 species were only found at a single stop. The weather was
> clear and cool, with very little wind, I don't think I could have asked for
> better. Here are some of the overall highlights of the day.
>
> - *Dawn Song.* The Dawn song at the marsh was overwhelming (see the
> stilt recording below). Probably hundreds of birds, I did my best to parse
> out what I was hearing, but I suspect I underestimated Marsh Wrens,
> blackbirds, and calling coots/ducks by quite a bit. (I think I may have
> missed a Least bittern there too)
> - *Black-necked Stilt:* I had 2 Black-necked Stilts at my first stop
> at the northwest corner of Goose Lake. They were very vocal
> <https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/637624955> (probably scolding
> me). I'm not sure when the last time this route was run, but this may be a
> new species for the route.
> - *Cinnamon Teal:* I came across one single drake Cinnamon Teal at
> stop 18. It was in a pond with some Blue-winged teals. I did not note a
> hen, but I think it's likely one was hiding in the marsh.
> - *Meadowlarks!* Meadowlarks dominated my count, noted at 46 stops
> (and probably missed at the others). Almost all were Western, but I did
> hear one singing Eastern Meadowlark.
> - *American Bittern*: I was hoping to hear a displaying Bittern on my
> route, and I did on stop 10! I stopped briefly after my 3 minute count to
> take a recording <https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/637625220>.
> - *Prairie Chickens:* I thought I was well into Sharp-tailed Grouse
> territory, but I heard a few late Prairie Chickens still booming at stops
> 5-7
> - *Weasel!* The non-bird highlight of my route was a Long-tailed Weasel
> <https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/637629575> at stop 30.
>
> Trip report: https://ebird.org/tripreport/384758 >
> It was a long day, but I'm looking forward to running it again next year
> to see what changes.
>
>
>
> Species
>
> 1-10
>
> 11-20
>
> 21-30
>
> 31-40
>
> 41-50
>
> Total ind.
>
> Total Stops
>
> Blue-winged Teal
>
> 25
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 27
>
> 4
>
> Northern Shoveler
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> Gadwall
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> Mallard
>
> 7
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 8
>
> 3
>
> Canvasback
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Redhead
>
> 16
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 16
>
> 2
>
> Ring-necked Pheasant
>
> 9
>
> 14
>
> 9
>
> 1
>
> 3
>
> 36
>
> 28
>
> Pied-billed Grebe
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 3
>
> 3
>
> Eared Grebe
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> Mourning Dove
>
> 9
>
> 7
>
> 21
>
> 19
>
> 38
>
> 94
>
> 37
>
> Common Nighthawk
>
> 5
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 8
>
> 7
>
> American Coot
>
> 8
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 8
>
> 4
>
> American Avocet
>
> 1
>
> 25
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 26
>
> 2
>
> Killdeer
>
> 4
>
> 5
>
> 3
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 12
>
> 11
>
> Upland Sandpiper
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 3
>
> 5
>
> 0
>
> 11
>
> 8
>
> Long-billed Curlew
>
> 0
>
> 4
>
> 0
>
> 5
>
> 3
>
> 12
>
> 7
>
> Wilson's Snipe
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Willet
>
> 5
>
> 7
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 13
>
> 7
>
> Wilson's Phalarope
>
> 1
>
> 3
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 4
>
> 3
>
> Black Tern
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Forster's Tern
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Double-crested Cormorant
>
> 6
>
> 5
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 11
>
> 2
>
> American Bittern
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 3
>
> 2
>
> Great Blue Heron
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> White-faced Ibis
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Red-tailed Hawk
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 2
>
> 3
>
> 3
>
> Western Kingbird
>
> 4
>
> 0
>
> 6
>
> 1
>
> 2
>
> 13
>
> 8
>
> Eastern Kingbird
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 5
>
> 5
>
> Horned Lark
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 16
>
> 13
>
> 32
>
> 14
>
> Bank Swallow
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 3
>
> 1
>
> 4
>
> 2
>
> Barn Swallow
>
> 26
>
> 4
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 34
>
> 7
>
> Cliff Swallow
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 2
>
> Marsh Wren
>
> 23
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 25
>
> 4
>
> Brown Thrasher
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 4
>
> 4
>
> Grasshopper Sparrow
>
> 4
>
> 7
>
> 3
>
> 10
>
> 15
>
> 39
>
> 26
>
> Lark Sparrow
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 14
>
> 14
>
> 3
>
> 34
>
> 18
>
> Lark Bunting
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 2
>
> 22
>
> 25
>
> 11
>
> Yellow-headed Blackbird
>
> 28
>
> 4
>
> 4
>
> 13
>
> 0
>
> 49
>
> 10
>
> Bobolink
>
> 0
>
> 5
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 5
>
> 2
>
> Eastern Meadowlark
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Western Meadowlark
>
> 14
>
> 46
>
> 35
>
> 25
>
> 29
>
> 149
>
> 46
>
> Orchard Oriole
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 5
>
> 1
>
> 3
>
> 10
>
> 7
>
> Bullock's Oriole
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> Red-winged Blackbird
>
> 44
>
> 40
>
> 29
>
> 44
>
> 13
>
> 170
>
> 26
>
> Brown-headed Cowbird
>
> 1
>
> 3
>
> 10
>
> 4
>
> 10
>
> 28
>
> 15
>
> Common Grackle
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 3
>
> 3
>
> 2
>
> Common Yellowthroat
>
> 12
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 15
>
> 9
>
> Blue Grosbeak
>
> 2
>
> 2
>
> 2
>
> 2
>
> 3
>
> 11
>
> 10
>
> Dickcissel
>
> 0
>
> 8
>
> 4
>
> 3
>
> 8
>
> 23
>
> 13
>
> *Cinnamon Teal*
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> *Greater Prairie-Chicken*
>
> 4
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 4
>
> 1
>
> *Black-necked Stilt*
>
> 2
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 1
>
> *Northern Harrier*
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> *American Crow*
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> *Eastern Bluebird*
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> *American Goldfinch*
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 1
>
> *Yellow Warbler*
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 1
>
> 0
>
> 0
>
> 2
>
> 2
>
> *Total Species : 57*
>
> *Total ind. : 1002*
>
>
>
>
> Tobin Brown
>
> Lancaster County
> 402-213-4014
> https://ebird.org/profile/NDA1ODIzNg/US-NE >
>
>
>
Date: 6/18/25 6:34 pm From: Donna and Bruce Walgren via groups.io <Piranga...> Subject: Re: [NEBirds] Crescent Lake Breeding Bird Survey
Nebraska Birders,
Donna and I used to do this survey. That first stop is crazy – never could feel comfortable with the numbers of birds calling there! We never had Black-necked Stilts or Prairie Chickens – so those two are great additions!
Thanks for sharing!
Bruce & Donna
From: <NEBirds...> [mailto:<NEBirds...>] On Behalf Of Tobin Brown via groups.io
Sent: Monday, June 16, 2025 10:09 AM
To: <NEbirds...>
Subject: [NEBirds] Crescent Lake Breeding Bird Survey
Nebraska Birders,
Inspired by Jason Thiele's reports, I figured I'd share my experience as well!
On Friday I conducted my first breeding bird survey at Crescent Lake. Having never done a survey before, I was a little worried about the rushed nature of a 3 minute count, but I think I did pretty well! I counted just over 1000 individuals of 57 species (plus a non-count Sora and domestic Peafowl)! 20 species were only found at a single stop. The weather was clear and cool, with very little wind, I don't think I could have asked for better. Here are some of the overall highlights of the day.
* Dawn Song. The Dawn song at the marsh was overwhelming (see the stilt recording below). Probably hundreds of birds, I did my best to parse out what I was hearing, but I suspect I underestimated Marsh Wrens, blackbirds, and calling coots/ducks by quite a bit. (I think I may have missed a Least bittern there too)
* Black-necked Stilt: I had 2 Black-necked Stilts at my first stop at the northwest corner of Goose Lake. They were very vocal <https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/637624955> (probably scolding me). I'm not sure when the last time this route was run, but this may be a new species for the route.
* Cinnamon Teal: I came across one single drake Cinnamon Teal at stop 18. It was in a pond with some Blue-winged teals. I did not note a hen, but I think it's likely one was hiding in the marsh.
* Meadowlarks! Meadowlarks dominated my count, noted at 46 stops (and probably missed at the others). Almost all were Western, but I did hear one singing Eastern Meadowlark.
* American Bittern: I was hoping to hear a displaying Bittern on my route, and I did on stop 10! I stopped briefly after my 3 minute count to take a recording <https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/637625220> .
* Prairie Chickens: I thought I was well into Sharp-tailed Grouse territory, but I heard a few late Prairie Chickens still booming at stops 5-7
* Weasel! The non-bird highlight of my route was a Long-tailed Weasel <https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/637629575> at stop 30.
