Date: 9/25/26 7:51 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 25 September 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on September 25, 2026; the next update will be made on October 2.
Email your reports to rarebirdalert AT tucsonbirds.org
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/G0gQCqAWOqfnGMrLVSZfKKiE8vmk?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/qk1CCrgWPrT7XBjwWhzh66i42BOp?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Least Grebe
#Broad-winged Hawk
#Sabine's Gull
#Buff-collared Nightjar
*BLACK SWIFT
*RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD
*TUFTED FLYCATCHER
#Rose-throated Becard
Pinyon Jay
Clark's Nutcracker
#Magnolia Warbler
#Baltimore Oriole
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/QJy7CypWZBtKEBW6psAummixwnBz?<domain...>)
A *TUFTED FLYCATCHER continued at Barfoot Park on 9/19 (Leonard
Santisteban). GPS: (31.91686, -109.28076). Several Clark’s Nutcrackers were
reported on 9/22 (m.ob.), part of an ongoing irruption.
A #MAGNOLIA WARBLER was photographed at San Simon Cienega on 9/20 (Rose Ann
Rowlett).
TUCSON area
Single *BLACK SWIFTS were reported from Saguaro NP (East),Pantano River
Park, and Castle Rock on 9/22 and 9/23 (Brian Nicholas, John Amoroso, Scott
Crabtree). Black Swift is a review species and documentation can be
submitted to the Arizona Bird Committee.
A possible #LEAST GREBE was recorded at Sweetwater Wetlands on 9/24
(Rebecca Oseid).
#BROAD-WINGED HAWKS were reported from an east Tucson yard on 9/23 and 3 on
9/24 (Brian Gibbons). Eight Pinyon Jays were reported on 9/20. Six Pinyon
Jays were reported along the Tanque Verde Wash on 9/21 (Adam Dudley).
On Mt Lemmon, three #BROAD-WINGED HAWKS were reported in Bear Canyon on
9/25 (David Griffin). Several Clark’s Nutcrackers were reported on
Incinerator Ridge on 9/25 (m.ob.).
A #BROAD-WINGED HAWK was photographed at Cienega Creek Preserve (permit
required) in southeast Tucson on 9/25 (Nate Peterson). NOTE: This area is
accessible from Colossal Cave Rd or the Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon
Trailhead. A special advance permit is required to visit this preserve;
see: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/puQzCzqg1DiEvjB87hBC77i9eTHW?<domain...> and
annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/-IrACA8EBztBMDor8COF99iG0lJ-?<domain...> A #BROAD-WINGED HAWK was photographed in Tanque Verde Wash at Tanque Verde
Loop Rd on 9/24 (Brian Gibbons).
BISBEE
A *RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD was reported at a private residence in Bisbee
on 9/19 (Ken Lamberton).
SANTA CRUZ FLATS
A #SABINE’S GULL was photographed at Arizona City Lake on 9/25 (Julie
Furgason).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
At Lake Cochise and the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox, a #SABINE’S GULL
was reported on 9/23 (Steve Svedeman).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
In Box Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/8b7TCB1GDAT03LmPyH7Hyyi2O5oy?<domain...>), a #BUFF-COLLARED NIGHTJAR
continued near the bridge in the lower canyon through 9/22 (m.ob.).
A #BALTIMORE ORIOLE was photographed in Sahuarita at North Santa Cruz Park
on 9/19 (Layton Pickard).
PATAGONIA
A #ROSE-THROATED BECARD continued along Harshaw Creek Road on 9/22 (Jake
Thompson) in the same place as last year. GPS: (31.51621, -110.69293).
ACCESS NOTE: please stay on the road – the creek is private property.
TUCSON - Mosquito control operations are scheduled at Sweetwater Wetlands
from 6:30-9:00am on Mondays during the warmer months (usually March -
November). The gate will open when operations are finished. Due to
long-term construction, Roger Road WRF is closed. See the Sweetwater page (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/sU9LCDwKGDTwQ8mjycnIGGijgU37?<domain...> for details.
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON BIRD SANCTUARY: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Thursday, when open
noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need
to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/WN0eCGwNLJTEozlW6hBTmmiBB00r?<domain...> The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The
fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving
privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a
cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry
requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a
background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in
the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and
insurance as well. Sometimes, foreign nationals are required to have an
approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the
Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE:
a REAL ID is required for entry; some state driver's licenses qualify; see
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/UzBxCJEkOMflPjzpVu8U33iyhSqu?<domain...> for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open at 8AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not
linger, you will be locked inside). Access subject to change without notice.
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Open 7 AM - 2 PM. Park outside the fence and use the
pedestrian gate; stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
Access subject to change without notice.
CORONA DE TUCSON WRF and NOGALES STP: Closed to entry; some facilities may
be viewed from outside the fence.
Date: 9/24/26 4:38 pm From: Christopher Vincent (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Common Ground Dove - E. of Catalina, AZ
Date: 9/24/26 4:19 pm From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Catalina SP today
Mid-day (I know doldrums and all that) but overcast so cool, I walked the bird loop…. Starting at the wash, I first noticed that the recent hatch of Red-spotted Toad led to spots in front of my eyes…. At least a dozen thumbnail sized toads were hopping around. A pair of Blue Grosbeaks were briefly together on the same branch. The air was full of Northern Snouts; they are all over the valley right now. Rounding the first turn, three female Varied Buntings were foraging and fighting…. It appeared one was an adult female with two immatures. A Summer Tanager was also foraging nearby. Butterflies continued to be my focus in the absence of birds. By the second wash, left hand fork, I heard a far off bird call…Huh, sounded like a Mexican Jay…. Up the staircase then toward the ridge…. Look at that! The Mexican Jay was not my imagination… but I was too slow with the camera.
Tried to look to the north, down the slope. It stayed hidden.
Just a bit later I met a park ranger who asked how it was going…. Then he mentioned that the gigantic saguaro on the slope to the south…. (If you ever walked that trail, it was an immense presence; largest in the park) had collapsed last weekend. Another iconic feature passes…. I will miss seeing it.
Down the steps to the wash…. Last birds: a Canyon Towhee, a Rufous-winged Sparrow and two Orange-crowned Warblers. Water the dog at the bench, wander out.
Date: 9/23/26 6:32 pm From: Steven Tracey (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: San Pedro House Birding Walk
Hi Birders,
The weather was threatening this morning but the forecast promised
improving conditions and that's exactly what we got for the San Pedro House
birding walk. I suspect the threat of rain kept folks away as we had just
4 locals on the walk, but while the birders didn't show up, the birds did.
It was the best fall migration day we have had this year as we found
several mixed flocks of migrants. Highlights included 7 warbler species
(Common Yellowthroat, Wilson's, Black-throated Gray, Nashville,
Orange-crowned, MacGillivray's, Lucy's) which surprisingly didn't include
Northern Yellow Warbler for the first time since they arrived in spring.
Also of note were 4 vireo species (Cassin's, Plumbeous, Western Warbling
and Bell's). Especially unusual for the walk were four species of swallows
(NRW, Tree, VG, and Barn). At almost any point in the walk you could look
up and see swallows moving through. Just a really nice, birdy fall
migration morning.
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks every 2nd and 4th
Wednesday of the month. For the next several months the walks start at
7:00a. The walks leave from the BLM’s San Pedro House south of State Route
90 just west of the San Pedro River. We walk about 4km and are out for
about three hours. Bring your own binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro River birding walk is on Wednesday, October 14 at 7:00a.
Date: 9/19/26 5:59 am From: Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Maricopa PIRATIC FLYCATCHER continues through at least Friday 4pm
Field Summary
The Piratic Flycatcher continues at Base and Meridian WA, Arizona's first
state record, found near the eastern end of a pine grove around 33.3876,
-112.3034. It feeds actively on fruits at a small water pool along the
grove's eastern edge and shows regularly between 4:20 PM and 5:45 PM,
though views are often brief and can be obstructed by pine foliage. Park at
the smaller lot north of the bridge to minimize walking in extreme heat,
and be prepared for quick sightings—scan lower and mid-canopy branches of
pines, especially early morning and late afternoon when the bird is most
active. Multiple observers have had success with scopes, and recent photos
document the bird's distinctive features.
Date: 9/18/26 7:46 pm From: T.G. Miko (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa)
I would like to thank those folks who posted the GPS coordinates of where
the bird actually is— as opposed to where one should park. This made sure
that I parked in the right spot and walked to the right spot. Thank you!
Thomas Geza Miko
Claremont CA 91711
909.241.3300
On Thu, Sep 17, 2026 at 1:38 PM Mark Larson <larsonwarren...> wrote:
> This is interesting! I have observed Piratic Flycatchers many times in the
> Neotropics and the first photo gave me flashbacks of some of those moments,
> with the bird almost always perched on treetops.
>
> I do not have experience with Variegated Flycatchers, so I have no basis
> to compare them.
>
> Mark
>
> Mark W. Larson
> (Retired) President
> MARICOPA AUDUBON SOCIETY
> Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Arizona
>
>
> On Thu, Sep 17, 2026 at 1:11 PM T.G. Miko <aznmbirds...>
> wrote:
>
>> Thanks for cross posting this from Discord!
>>
>>
>> Thomas Geza Miko
>> Claremont CA 91711
>> 909.241.3300 <(909)%20241-3300>
>>
>> On Thu, Sep 17, 2026 at 11:49 AM David Wright <aznmbirds...>
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Bird reported this AM on AZ Discord. Here is a checklist with photos of
>>> the bird:
>>>
>>> https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/yc7kCR8vZmtoQV3MYi9f66i1dFf8?<domain...> >>> <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/yc7kCR8vZmtoQV3MYi9f66i1dFf8?<domain...> >>>
>>> Coordinates from this AM below. Bird last reported on discord about 10
>>> AM
>>>
>>> 33.387265,-112.301940
>>>
>>> (I am just relaying info here)
>>>
>>
We were excited to have a beautiful summer tanager visit our birdbath/pond
this afternoon. Female or young male, with beautiful saffron coloring in
the vent and a very rich yellow/orange/gold plumage. Didn't stay long,
but cooperative for my rusty camera skills.
We're only a few blocks from Fort Lowell Park, so it could possibly be
visiting there as well?
Date: 9/17/26 7:10 pm From: Mark Stevenson (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Warning regarding the Piratic Flycatcher location
A birder reported that a Sherrif (likely a deputy) was there this evening
telling birders that it was not ok to pass by the No Trespassing signs to
get to where they were looking for the Piratic Flycatcher. It was also not
ok to park in the little lot nearest the flycatcher.
I wasn't there, so I don't know any subtleties of the situation.
Date: 9/17/26 1:40 pm From: Mark Larson (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa)
This is interesting! I have observed Piratic Flycatchers many times in the
Neotropics and the first photo gave me flashbacks of some of those moments,
with the bird almost always perched on treetops.
I do not have experience with Variegated Flycatchers, so I have no basis to
compare them.
Mark
Mark W. Larson
(Retired) President
MARICOPA AUDUBON SOCIETY
Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Arizona
On Thu, Sep 17, 2026 at 1:11 PM T.G. Miko <aznmbirds...>
wrote:
Date: 9/17/26 11:49 am From: David Wright (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa)
Bird reported this AM on AZ Discord. Here is a checklist with photos of the bird:
Dodging rain everywhere, I nonetheless had a really good morning on the eastern part of the Zuni region. I started at the Bluewater Canyon BLM area west of Bluewater Village off I-40. Access to this site (worth a visit at all seasons) is at exit 72. Head toward Bluewater Village but take the frontage road against eastbound interstate traffic about two miles. Turn left on Plano Road (if the sign is gone again look for sheet metal sculptures of Sasquatch and a mounted Native American). Go another roughly two miles-the road will turn to good gravel about half way) to the parking lot for the site on the outside of a right hand turn. Here’s what may be of wider interest:
crissal thrasher- one calling from near the canyon mouth and audible from parking area when I arrived about 06:35
Lucy’s warbler- one in willows and tamarisk just inside canyon mouth; the seems late
northern waterthrush- one between first and second crossings just before trail goes beneath an overhang, where there is one large cottonwood and several smaller ones; a second near third crossing
HOODED WARBLER- immediately before second crossing there is a weak trail that goes upstream for about 30 feet and the bird, in a female plumage, was first heard calling, a rather piercing high chip. There is a noisy tumble of water there so the loud call was helpful to me
I got chase out of the canyon by rain after crossing the creek for the fifth time (rubber knee boots might help for those unwilling to risk the crossings on mobile rocks).
The second stop was Paseo del Coyote golf course in Grants. This visit was abruptly terminated when lightning struck close from a cloud that didn’t seem to have much to it, though lightning and rain were widely visible in the middle distance. In the brief time there, by far the most interesting thing was an “oriole” rattle call coming from willows near the 7th green. It wasn’t a Bullock’s oriole- that call I heard all breeding season. Not yet in the habit of carrying electronics at all times, I had to wait until back in the car (just beating the deluge by a couple of minutes) to check recordings on my phone. The best match is Baltimore oriole. We have, to my knowledge, only one regional record for that species, a male paired with a female Bullock’s oriole that successfully fledged at least one young bird in spring 1981. But I didn’t see anything except moving vegetation.
I’m still camped at Ojo Redondo, and the drive back on Forest Road 180 was entertaining for reasons of the thunderstorm and a couple of bird encounters. A Steller’s jay was in juniper savanna between the 2nd and 3rd cattle guards after the road becomes gravel. And very close to the intersection of FR180 and FR425 I encountered a small “tornado” of swifts foraging low to the road between rain squalls. There were 5-6 Vaux’s swifts in a tight, spiraling flock about 50 feet wide and 25 to 60 feet in the air. That was the topper to a fine, wet morning.
My last stop was Bluewater Lake, which I hastily covered lest the dirt roads get too muddy to get away. The imm. common tern is still present with two Forster’s terns about three eighths of a mile up the northwestern arm from where it Ts into the north-south part of the lake.
Best,
John Trochet
Sacramento, California
currently in the Zuni Mountains area.
Date: 9/12/26 11:06 am From: Nick Whelan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE Arizona: Painted Buntings in Hereford, AZ, Yard
For the past several days, a juvenile Painted Bunting has been hanging around my Hereford, AZ, yard. This morning, an adult female has been visiting the yard as well.
Date: 9/10/26 9:47 am From: trochetj (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] CWNM: Zuni Mountains area birds
Dear Birders,
This morning early there was an eastern phoebe in the parking lot of Paseo del Coyote golf course in Grants, Cibola County. It was in the perimeter of the largest cottonwood in the lot and on the adjacent electric wire that runs through the tree. Unfortunately, when the waste management truck collected the refuse from the receptacle beneath the tree at 7AM the bird flew off to the south. It did not seem to have returned when I check the trees in the lot 45 minutes ago.
At the 4th Street park in Grants just now was a female-plumaged phainopepla, plus two woodpeckers clearly transient at the site, a Lewis’s woodpecker and an acorn woodpecker. These were all at the north end of the park, over the watercourse. Common western migrant perching birds were in fair numbers this morning, in contrast to the paucity encountered the three previous days.
On Monday evening about 400 meters east of Ojo Redondo campground in the high Zunis, I found a female American three-toed woodpecker. And at midday on Monday at Ramah Lake (McKinley County) there was an interesting cormorant. Lots of features suggested neotropic cormorant (small size, smaller & finer bill, disproportionately longer tail, a strong olive cast to the back, all compared to seven adjacent double-crested cormorants; the shape of the rear of the gular pouch was ambiguous at 500 meters distance) but the bird had a small area of yellow above the lores. A runt double-crested? A hybrid? I don’t know what to make of it.
Best,
John Trochet
Sacramento, California
presently visiting the Zuni Mountains
Date: 9/9/26 7:39 pm From: Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Maricopa WOOD STORK
Wood Stork soaring high above the northwestern wetland basins at Tres Rios
Overbank Wetlands in the restricted area. The bird glides slowly and can be
difficult to track when very high, but relocating it is possible with
patience. Access to the restricted area requires a permit, but from outside
the fence line, try gaining higher ground on the south access trail and
scan the general area around 33.3979855, -112.2618225 where the bird was
last located in the northwest pond. Original sighting coordinates were
33.39596, -112.26146, with views also confirmed from 33.391043, -112.255644.
Date: 9/9/26 4:26 pm From: Richard Bansberg (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] San Pedro House Birding Walk
Hello Birders,
This morning 6 locals birded the trails at the San Pedro House. Due to dense vegetation and muddy conditions we did not attempt to reach Black Phoebe or Kingfisher Ponds or walk along the river trail. Although access to some areas was limited we managed to tally 53 species. We did not hear or see any Cassin’s or Botteri’s Sparrows, which have been vocal on recent walks. However, we did note a large influx of Green-tailed Towhees and Brewer’s and Chipping Sparrows.
We recorded 7 warbler species. We heard two Yellow-billed Cuckoos and managed brief looks at one of them. A sora was heard at Kingfisher Pond. We also observed a Painted Bunting (female) coming into a pond along Del Valle Road.
We recorded 28 species of butterfly along the way and carefully walked around a diamondback rattlesnake at the edge of the trail. This was the third walk in a row with a rattlesnake sighting so be careful out there.
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. For the next several months the walks start at 7:00a. The walks leave from the BLM’s San Pedro House south of State Route 90 just west of the San Pedro River. We walk about 4km and are out for about three hours. Bring your own binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro River birding walk is on Wednesday, September 23 at 7:00a.
Date: 9/9/26 3:06 pm From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] BC Night-heron flock
This morning at Arthur Pack Reg Park, I was surprised to see a flock of thirteen Black-crowned Night-herons flying then landing to roost in the trees along the 9th hole pond.
I haven’t seen one in at least six weeks, and now the largest number I’ve ever seen at one time breaks the quiet spell. There were adult and immature plumages in the group.
Also I briefly had a Greater Roadrunner walking around on the hood of my parked car after it had gleaned what it could from the radiator grill. I had to back up to 10 feet away in order to get it in focus…. Didn’t seem alarmed by my movement.
Yesterday, also at the park: I arrived at 6 AM, and shortly observed blackbirds lifting off from the reeds by the pump house. Brewer’s and Yellow-headed Blackbirds, Great-tailed Grackles and a couple Bronzed Cowbirds were in the mix.
Also two first of the fall Northern Pintails with 14 Cinnamon Teal.
Date: 9/4/26 8:18 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 4 September 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on September 4, 2026; the next update will be made on September
11. Email your reports to rarebirdalert AT tucsonbirds.org
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ddbaCGwNLJTEprYNxsKfmmiBcuxY?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/U1KoCJEkOMflmkrWGTGh33iym04n?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Short-tailed Hawk
*PURPLE GALLINULE
#Semipalmated Sandpiper
#Short-billed Dowitcher
#Buff-collared Nightjar
#Berylline Hummingbird
*TUFTED FLYCATCHER
#Rose-throated Becard
#Yellow-throated Vireo
#Hooded Warbler
#Orchard Oriole
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/0GcRCN7oVgIJrYlqKS0u22iykTMK?<domain...>)
A *TUFTED FLYCATCHER continued at Barfoot Park on 9/4 (m.ob.). GPS:
(31.91686, -109.28076).
A #HOODED WARBLER was reported on FR42 between Sunny Flat and the
Southwestern Research Station on 9/1 (James Muller).
An #ORCHARD ORIOLE was reported in a Whitetail Canyon yard on 8/30 and was
photographed on 9/2 (Rick Taylor).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
A *PURPLE GALLINULE was continued at the Green Valley WRF on 9/3 (m.ob.). A
#SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER continued on 9/1 (m.ob.) and a #SEMIPALMATED
SANDPIPER continued 9/4 (m.ob.).
In Madera Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/_EIACOJpWjfl9DRLVTACBBiGbnZ9?<domain...>), a #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD
continued at the Santa Rita Lodge this week (m.ob.), but note that a very
similar hybrid BROAD-BILLED x BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD has been seen this week
as well (m.ob.). Look for the rust-colored bars in the wing coverts and
white flecking on the chin of the female Berylline, and the solid dark gray
wings (including coverts) of the hybrid. In flight, look for the presence
of rusty color in the wings for the Berylline.
In Box Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/USnVCP6q0kC9rBG1YhZFllixiSWY?<domain...>), a #BUFF-COLLARED NIGHTJAR
continued near the bridge in the lower canyon through 9/4 (m.ob.).
TUCSON area
A *PURPLE GALLINULE continued at El Rio Preserve in Marana on 8/30 (Andrew
Core) in the southwest corner.
On Mt Lemmon, a #SHORT-TAILED HAWK continued over the Bear Wallow/Mt
Bigelow area through 8/30 (m.ob.).
A #YELLOW-THROATED VIREO continued on 8/30 (m.ob.) in Happy Valley (east
side of the Rincons) at Paige Creek near where the creek crosses the road.
GPS: (32.15710, -110.44949)
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at Ramsey Canyon Inn this week (m.ob.).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
At Lake Cochise and the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox, a #SHORT-BILLED
DOWITCHER and a #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued on 9/4 (m.ob.).
SANTA CRUZ FLATS
A #SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER was photographed east of the intersection of
Harmon Rd & Tweedy Rds. on 8/31 (Nate Peterson).
PATAGONIA
A #ROSE-THROATED BECARD continued along Harshaw Creek Road this week
(m.ob.) in the same place as last year. GPS: (31.51621, -110.69293). ACCESS
NOTE: please stay on the road – the creek is private property.
TUCSON - Mosquito control operations are scheduled at Sweetwater Wetlands
from 6:30-9:00am on Mondays during the warmer months (usually March -
November). The gate will open when operations are finished. Due to
long-term construction, Roger Road WRF is closed. See the Sweetwater page (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/eMxbCQArYlfgEnA1GhGH99iG3fa_?<domain...> for details.
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON BIRD SANCTUARY: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Thursday, when open
noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need
to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/GJueCVJz4qfmLVwnrcxSrriEebxe?<domain...> The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The
fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving
privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a
cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry
requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a
background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in
the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and
insurance as well. Sometimes, foreign nationals are required to have an
approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the
Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE:
a REAL ID is required for entry; some state driver's licenses qualify; see
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/v2r6CWWA5rTZg19L7szTkkiocAL1?<domain...> for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open at 8AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not
linger, you will be locked inside). Access subject to change without notice.
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Open 7 AM - 2 PM. Park outside the fence and use the
pedestrian gate; stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
Access subject to change without notice.
CORONA DE TUCSON WRF and NOGALES STP: Closed to entry; some facilities may
be viewed from outside the fence.
Date: 9/1/26 9:01 am From: doyledianar (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] "Arizona Birds" New Article—AVIFAUNA OF VEKOL VALLEY, MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA
Arizona Birds, the online journal of the Arizona Field Ornithologists, has just posted a new article:
Avifauna of Vekol Valley, Maricopa County, Arizona, by Robert W. Bowker.
From 2018 to 2025 Rob Bowker coordinated volunteer surveys of this interesting underbirded area with spreader dike retention ponds, last surveyed in 2001 by the Drylands Institute and in 2008 during an Arizona Field Ornithologists one-day field expedition.
Date: 8/31/26 4:50 pm From: Scott Blackman (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Northern Waterthrush East Flagstaff, AZ
Had a backyard northern waterthrush in a continental country club house
near the twin lakes in east flagstaff, az. Also at the twin lakes off
Walnut Hills rd were a belted kingfisher, great-tailed grackle (looking
rough), and a single red-necked phalarope. Seems like maybe some
interesting possible storm fallout around the state.
Date: 8/31/26 6:52 am From: Larry Morgan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Gambel's Quail
It's that time of year when their hormone levels decline, no mating
stresses, the big advantage is there is safety in larger numbers!
Larry Morgan
On Sun, Aug 30, 2026, 6:46 PM Deanna Mac Phail <aznmbirds...>
wrote:
> Have you noticed during the last three weeks or so that there are now
> larger flocks of quail gathering, with a mix of all ages. This summer's
> young are now old enough that parents don't seem to need to keep them
> separate.
>
> Deanna MacPhail
> Tucson
>
Have you noticed during the last three weeks or so that there are now
larger flocks of quail gathering, with a mix of all ages. This summer's
young are now old enough that parents don't seem to need to keep them
separate.
Date: 8/30/26 9:12 am From: Nick Whelan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ: Northern Waterthrush in Hereford 8-30-26
This morning at the water feature in my Hereford, AZ, yard, a Northern Waterthrush has been present. Long-legged warbler, overall brown and buff, constantly bobs its tail up and down.
Date: 8/29/26 3:03 pm From: Tom Wood (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] New Hours at Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary
We are changing the opening time at Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary from dawn to 7:00. The dawn opening was stressful to our resident caretakers and our neighbors that share our road and didn't really provide any unique viewing opportunities for visitors. Beginning Sept 1 our hours will be 7a.m. until dusk Friday through Wednesday, noon until dusk on Thursday.
Date: 8/28/26 5:44 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 28 August 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on August 28, 2026; the next update will be made on September 4.
Email your reports to rarebirdalert AT tucsonbirds.org
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/hG1TC5AomkfwmMrgqczfq4hkOtH_?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/znx6C6YpnlfZ2P4VQS6h7Xh5Aco0?<domain...>
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
A *PURPLE GALLINULE was continued at the Green Valley WRF on 8/28 (m.ob.).
A #SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER was photographed on 8/27 (Nick Komar) and
continued on 8/28 (m.ob.). A #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER was photographed on
8/26 (Mason Davis) and continued 8/28 (m.ob.).
A #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER was photographed at North Santa Cruz Park in
Sahuarita on 8/23 (Ezekiel Dobson).
In Madera Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/7kBzCg7WAOI4XqzPVIZCk6h4-MS2?<domain...>), a #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD
continued at the Santa Rita Lodge this week (m.ob.), but note that a very
similar hybrid BROAD-BILLED x BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD has been seen this week
as well (m.ob.). Look for the rust-colored bars in the wing coverts and
white flecking on the chin of the female Berylline, and the solid dark gray
wings (including coverts) of the hybrid. In flight, look for the presence
of rusty color in the wings for the Berylline.
In Box Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/K4F8CjAWEjfZLYxlpSxFAjhmKfiA?<domain...>), a #BUFF-COLLARED NIGHTJAR
continued near the bridge in the lower canyon through 8/25 (m.ob.).
A #SHORT-TAILED HAWK was reported from Gardner Canyon on 8/22 (Ezekiel
Dobson).
TUCSON area
A *PURPLE GALLINULE continued at El Rio Preserve in Marana on 8/27 (m.ob.)
on the south and west sides.
On Mt Lemmon, a #SHORT-TAILED HAWK continued over the Bear Wallow/Mt
Bigelow area this week (m.ob.). A #HOODED WARBLER continued at Sunset
Trailhead in lower Bear Wallow through 8/24 (m.ob.).
A #RED-SHOULDERED HAWK was reported at Arthur Pack Park on 8/26 (John
Williams).
A #YELLOW-THROATED VIREO was photographed on 8/27 (C Hippenmeyer) in Happy
Valley (east side of the Rincons) at Paige Creek near where the creek
crosses the road and continued on 8/28 (m.ob.). . GPS: (32.15710,
-110.44949)
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In Miller Canyon a *FLAME-COLORED TANAGER continued through 8/28 (m.ob.). A
#HOODED WARBLER continued on 8/26 (Liam Ehrman).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at Ramsey Canyon Inn this week (m.ob.).
In Hunter Canyon (https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/yoMTCk6WGkCoVkJYms0HnYhGHHJv?<domain...>), a #HOODED WARBLER was
photographed on 8/22 (Shawn Miller) and continued through 8/26 (m.ob.).
A #WHITE-EYED VIREO was reported in Carr Canyon at Reef Townsite on 8/27
(m.ob.). A possible *SLATE-THROATED REDSTART was heard on 8/27 (Jerald
Britten).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
At Lake Cochise and the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox, a #SHORT-BILLED
DOWITCHER and a #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued on 8/28 (m.ob.).
At Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, a #SABINE'S GULL and a #SHORT-BILLED
DOWITCHER were reported on 8/25 (Ron Beck).
PATAGONIA
A #ROSE-THROATED BECARD continued along Harshaw Creek Road this week
(m.ob.) in the same place as last year. GPS: (31.51621, -110.69293). ACCESS
NOTE: please stay on the road – the creek is private property.
NOGALES area
A #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER continued this week in Sycamore Canyon (m.ob.).
GPS (31.4231, -111.1949). A *YELLOW-GREEN VIREO was reported on 8/24 (Silas
Hernandez) and continued on 8/25 (Ted Wolff). GPS: (31.4254411,
-111.1943831)
TUCSON - Mosquito control operations are scheduled at Sweetwater Wetlands
from 6:30-9:00am on Mondays during the warmer months (usually March -
November). The gate will open when operations are finished. Due to
long-term construction, Roger Road WRF is closed. See the Sweetwater page (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/duCiCnGWL0cr0XRlMuzTQqhJ_ZYp?<domain...> for details.
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON BIRD SANCTUARY: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Thursday, when open
noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need
to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/RGYZCp9WNpfpr9RQXC9c2NhGx8Al?<domain...> The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The
fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving
privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a
cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry
requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a
background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in
the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and
insurance as well. Sometimes, foreign nationals are required to have an
approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the
Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE:
a REAL ID is required for entry; some state driver's licenses qualify; see
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/gvukCqAWOqfJA1MLmFgfKphEtiY9?<domain...> for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open at 8AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not
linger, you will be locked inside). Access subject to change without notice.
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Open 7 AM - 2 PM. Park outside the fence and use the
pedestrian gate; stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
Access subject to change without notice.
CORONA DE TUCSON WRF and NOGALES STP: Closed to entry; some facilities may
be viewed from outside the fence.
Date: 8/28/26 11:23 am From: Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Chiricahua Tufted Flycatcher continues at Barfoot
Bob and I wandered around in the Catalinas this morning for a few hours, mainly on Mt. Bigelow and Bear Wallow Rds. Birding was on the thin side until we headed down Bear Wallow Rd. At a place where a pipe goes under the road, birds were enjoying the water at the outflow. We ended up with 19 species there and it was tough to head on towards home for fear we'd miss something.
The highlights: Bushtit flock, three nuthatch species, Hermit and Townsend's warblers, Wilson's warblers, Plumbeous Vireo, Mountain Chickadees, and several Brown Creepers.
Date: 8/27/26 8:51 am From: Doug Jenness (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZFO field survey results
8/27/2026
On Saturday 22 August, 19 stalwart volunteers, confronting temperatures up
to 112° F, surveyed an area in central Pinal County that includes extensive
stands of saguaro cactus and semidesert grassland. Most of the area is part
of an Arizona Field Ornithologists underbirded eBird Gaps Area.(See here
<https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/E2wACZZEkxiXpZvYAFzfVXhBvBi6?<domain...>). The area has many earthen stock
tanks with intermittent water. We found 107 species and more than 2,180
birds. Several participants camped at The Boulders on the Florence-Kelvin
Hwy. the night before, where the highlight was a stream of about 80 Lesser
Nighthawks moving east to west at dusk.
We were especially interested in finding four species: the desert
subspecies of Purple Martin, Crested Caracara, Cassin's Sparrow, and
Rufous-winged Sparrow. Five teams reported *79 Purple Martins*, an
impressive number! All but three were at 11 cattle tanks. Although no
nests were discovered, one team reported the likely presence of a family
group, suggesting nesting. Four Crested Caracaras were reported along the
Florence-Kelvin Highway area. Eighteen Cassin’s Sparrows, reported by the
team covering the Willow Springs Road grassland area south of the eBird
Gaps area, was a moderate number for this area. Five teams reported 19
Rufous-winged Sparrows, a respectable number as this area is towards the
northern part of their range. The most numerous raptor was Harris’s Hawk
(31), and one team reported a nest with a downy nestling. A few species
were new to the eBird Gaps area, including Northern Waterthrush, Baird’s
Sandpiper, and Painted Bunting. Other birds rarely seen in this area were
Belted Kingfisher, Black-necked Stilt, and Great Egret. There was a good
migratory movement of passerines, including 11 species of wood-warbler, as
well as orioles, tanagers, kingbirds, flycatchers, and sparrows. Sixteen
Yellow Warblers were notable.
