| AZNMBirds |
| Received |
From |
Subject |
| 9/19/26 5:59 am |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Maricopa PIRATIC FLYCATCHER continues through at least Friday 4pm |
| 9/18/26 7:46 pm |
T.G. Miko (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa) |
| 9/18/26 7:00 am |
T.G. Miko (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Piratic yes Friday 091926 |
| 9/17/26 10:16 pm |
Rosie Watts (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Summer tanager midtown Tucson |
| 9/17/26 7:10 pm |
Mark Stevenson (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Warning regarding the Piratic Flycatcher location |
| 9/17/26 1:40 pm |
Mark Larson (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa) |
| 9/17/26 1:11 pm |
T.G. Miko (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa) |
| 9/17/26 1:08 pm |
T.G. Miko (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Maricopa PIRATIC FLYCATCHER |
| 9/17/26 12:00 pm |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Maricopa PIRATIC FLYCATCHER |
| 9/17/26 11:49 am |
David Wright (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Piratic or Variegated Flycatcher at Base & Meridian (Maricopa) |
| 9/16/26 4:10 pm |
Diane Drobka (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] What Can We Do? |
| 9/14/26 3:45 pm |
trochetj (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] CWNM: more Zuni Mountains birds |
| 9/12/26 11:06 am |
Nick Whelan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] SE Arizona: Painted Buntings in Hereford, AZ, Yard |
| 9/10/26 1:43 pm |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Maricopa WHITE IBIS this morning... |
| 9/10/26 9:47 am |
trochetj (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] CWNM: Zuni Mountains area birds |
| 9/9/26 7:39 pm |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Maricopa WOOD STORK |
| 9/9/26 4:26 pm |
Richard Bansberg (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] San Pedro House Birding Walk |
| 9/9/26 3:06 pm |
John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] BC Night-heron flock |
| 9/5/26 11:20 am |
Ash Ponders (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] New Sibley Blog IDing Plovers |
| 9/5/26 11:16 am |
Scott Crabtree (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] New Sibley Blog IDing Plovers |
| 9/4/26 8:18 pm |
Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 4 September 2026 |
| 9/2/26 1:16 pm |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Coconino White Wagtail continues |
| 9/1/26 9:01 am |
doyledianar (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] "Arizona Birds" New Article—AVIFAUNA OF VEKOL VALLEY, MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA |
| 8/31/26 4:50 pm |
Scott Blackman (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Northern Waterthrush East Flagstaff, AZ |
| 8/31/26 6:52 am |
Larry Morgan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Gambel's Quail |
| 8/30/26 4:46 pm |
Deanna Mac Phail (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Gambel's Quail |
| 8/30/26 9:12 am |
Nick Whelan (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] SE AZ: Northern Waterthrush in Hereford 8-30-26 |
| 8/29/26 3:03 pm |
Tom Wood (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] New Hours at Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary |
| 8/28/26 5:44 pm |
Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 28 August 2026 |
| 8/28/26 11:23 am |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Chiricahua Tufted Flycatcher continues at Barfoot |
| 8/27/26 6:56 pm |
Olga Harbour (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Bear Wallow birding |
| 8/27/26 8:51 am |
Doug Jenness (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] AZFO field survey results |
| 8/26/26 1:50 pm |
dpsiminski (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] San Pedro House Birding Walk |
| 8/26/26 12:22 pm |
Betsy Checchia (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Tingley Beach, Albuquerque, This Morning |
| 8/26/26 9:31 am |
John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Arthur Pack Regional Park, Blackbird push |
| 8/21/26 9:41 pm |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] South Polar Skua continues at Grindstone Lake |
| 8/21/26 8:14 pm |
Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 21 August 2026 |
| 8/20/26 5:51 pm |
\Robert O'Brien\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
| 8/20/26 5:44 pm |
lconrad6853 (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
RE: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
| 8/20/26 3:51 pm |
\Johnson, D. Richard\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
| 8/20/26 3:38 pm |
Monte Taylor (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
| 8/20/26 8:50 am |
Jeff Ladderud (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
Re: [AZNMbirds] Maricopa - Pacific Golden-Plover seen by dozens |
| 8/20/26 7:54 am |
Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> |
[AZNMbirds] Maricopa - Pacific Golden-Plover seen by dozens |
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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.
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/XZDWCzqg1DiEnzY2DS4f77i9B9Hn?<domain...>
Scott Ray
Catron Co, NM
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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)
>>>
>>
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Date: 9/18/26 7:00 am
From: T.G. Miko (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Piratic yes Friday 091926 |
33°23′14″ N 112°18′7″ W
Thomas Geza Miko
Claremont CA 91711
909.241.3300
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Date: 9/17/26 10:16 pm
From: Rosie Watts (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Summer tanager midtown Tucson |
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?
Happy Autumnal Birding!
Rosie and Jim Watts
Tucson, Arizona
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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.
Mark Stevenson
Tucson, AZ
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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:
> 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/b-Y-CnGWL0cgKzkYNf9fQQiJvkaO?<domain...>
>> <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/b-Y-CnGWL0cgKzkYNf9fQQiJvkaO?<domain...>
>>
>> Coordinates from this AM below. Bird last reported on discord about 10 AM
>>
>> 33.387265,-112.301940
>>
>> (I am just relaying info here)
>>
>
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Date: 9/16/26 4:10 pm
From: Diane Drobka (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] What Can We Do? |
Trump Administration Moves to Gut a Core Endangered Species Protection
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Trump Administration Moves to Gut a Core Endangered Species Protection
An internal memo reinterprets the law so that only the intentional killing of animals, not collateral harm, is i...
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Date: 9/14/26 3:45 pm
From: trochetj (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] CWNM: more Zuni Mountains birds |
Dear Birders,
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.
Sent from my iPhone
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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.
Nick Whelan
Hereford, AZ
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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
Sent from my iPhone
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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.
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ByQnCYVDjwfmDVv9Yf0fJJixVxQH?<domain...>
Scott Ray
Catron Co, NM
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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.
Richard Bansberg
Hereford, Arizona
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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.
John R Williams.
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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...>
Where directions are not given, they can be found in the most recent
edition of Tucson Bird Alliance's "Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona".
More information may be found here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/45ekCKAlPNfPvQEygt3iBBi5Qt2L?<domain...>
For additional sightings in the region, please see the The Arizona-New
Mexico Birding ListServ (https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/arc/aznmbirds) or
the Arizona Birding group on Facebook (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/5sBWCLAmQOfVp0jDxfmsDDiyHCa8?<domain...>
For more information about Tucson Bird Alliance field trips, lectures and
educational opportunities, please see https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/GMcBCM7nRPID0pOyKCQtZZi8Npli?<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.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The revised 8th edition of Tucson BIrd Alliance's "Finding Birds in
Southeast Arizona" is available here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/45ekCKAlPNfPvQEygt3iBBi5Qt2L?<domain...>/
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.
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security
procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching"
link on this page for important information regarding access:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/sHaSCR8vZmtokwmD9sWI66i17ER7?<domain...>
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.
Andrew Core
SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/5lp0CXYBgvfjyl5PvTLULLiW4_FU?<domain...>
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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.
It’s available to view or download at: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/1G0zCA8EBztGkWj23TGf99iGYliM?<domain...>
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.
Arizona Birds offers peer-reviewed articles that contribute to the scientific literature on Arizona’s avifauna. Check out the complete index of articles, authors, and subjects here <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/NbHjCB1GDATzY4vB9s6hyyi2kW1x?<domain...>. We also welcome submissions and encourage you to contact us with proposals. Information on how to do that is here <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/NQ3KCDwKGDTD4VX0KIAiGGijqgx7?<domain...>.
Diana Doyle
Associate Editor
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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.
Scott Blackman
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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
>
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Date: 8/30/26 4:46 pm
From: Deanna Mac Phail (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Gambel's Quail |
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
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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.
Nick Whelan
Hereford, AZ
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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.
Thank you
Tom Wood
SABO
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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...>
Where directions are not given, they can be found in the most recent
edition of Tucson Bird Alliance's "Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona".
More information may be found here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/mJaZC7Dqomin5zBE3uBi3jho7Fpy?<domain...>
For additional sightings in the region, please see the The Arizona-New
Mexico Birding ListServ (https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/arc/aznmbirds) or
the Arizona Birding group on Facebook (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/g_orC8XrpnfBVXyOncMsgwhyUjTl?<domain...>
For more information about Tucson Bird Alliance field trips, lectures and
educational opportunities, please see https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/MB1OC93vqouryzwRouPtNQhq4-y0?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Red-shouldered Hawk
#Short-tailed Hawk
*PURPLE GALLINULE
#Semipalmated Sandpiper
#Short-billed Dowitcher
#Sabine's Gull
#Buff-collared Nightjar
#Berylline Hummingbird
*TUFTED FLYCATCHER
#Rose-throated Becard
#White-eyed Vireo
#Yellow-throated Vireo
*YELLOW-GREEN VIREO
#Hooded Warbler
*SLATE-THROATED REDSTART
#Rufous-capped Warbler
*FLAME-COLORED TANAGER
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/XgDSC0Aj5NfYOkAJ6T3uPzh9HenE?<domain...>)
A *TUFTED FLYCATCHER continued at Barfoot Park on 8/28 (m.ob.). GPS:
(31.91686, -109.28076).
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)
TUBAC area (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/aP-oCl8WJlt6J1YOgUNIMJhzhn1k?<domain...>)
In Montosa Canyon (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/8Md_Cm7WKmIkwpQ1EcwS8mhR87X7?<domain...>) a #RUFOUS-CAPPED
WARBLER was photographed near the concrete wash below the culvert on 8/27
(Liam Ehrman). (31.6730514, -110.9394713)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The revised 8th edition of Tucson BIrd Alliance's "Finding Birds in
Southeast Arizona" is available here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/mJaZC7Dqomin5zBE3uBi3jho7Fpy?<domain...>/
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.
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security
procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching"
link on this page for important information regarding access:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/J0_HCoAWMof6NDylxUmUq8hpLLDZ?<domain...>
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.
Andrew Core
SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/zxgUCrgWPrT4KrBwLI5h6Zh4-XPe?<domain...>
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Date: 8/27/26 6:56 pm
From: Olga Harbour (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Bear Wallow birding |
Hi folks,
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.
Good birding!
Olga Harbour
Tucson,AZ
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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.
A report on the expedition will soon be posted on the AZFO website
<https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/lhvQC1VkgOfL9ygXxUGhp5hVyT4i?<domain...>.
Doug Jenness
Tucson
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Date: 8/26/26 1:50 pm
From: dpsiminski (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] San Pedro House Birding Walk |
This morning, five birders participated in The Friends of the San Pedro
River’s Birding Walk. From the San Pedro House, we birded the main San Pedro
House Trail south, plus Garden Wash. Although the trails are mostly dry now,
some of the ancillary trails are a bit overgrown, and there are many
mosquitoes near the river and the ponds. The trails are all within the BLM’s
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area. We saw 48 species of birds for
the morning.
No rarities today, but the seasonal changes were quite noticeable. Gone are
the breeding birds of the dry-summer season including Brown-crested
Flycatchers, and the once abundant Lucy’s Warblers and Yellow-breasted Chats
are now few to be seen. Here now in abundance are the wet-summer breeding Blue
Grosbeaks (33!), Cassin’s Sparrows (9) and Varied Buntings (3). Fall migration
was evident with 35 Lazuli Buntings feeding in the Johnson Grass, plus several
migrant Black-headed Grosbeaks, MacGillivray’s Warblers, and a Western
Warbling Vireo seen here and there along our route.
A bird of note was one singing Inca Dove. Not a rare bird, but we have not
seen or heard one on the San Pedro House Birding Walks in over two years! Who
knows what that is about.
You can see our ebird checklist at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S387150807
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks on the second and
fourth Wednesday of each month. For the months of September, October and
November, the walks leave at 7:00a from the BLM’s San Pedro House south of
State Route 90 just west of the San Pedro River. We walk about 4km, and we
are out for about three to three and one half hours. Bring your own
binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro River birding walk is on Wednesday, 9 September, at 7:00a.
NOTE the NEW START TIME for the autumn months.
See you there.
Pete Siminski
Friends of the San Pedro River
Sierra Vista AZ
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Date: 8/26/26 12:22 pm
From: Betsy Checchia (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Tingley Beach, Albuquerque, This Morning |
An interesting morning at Tingley Beach, especially on the bosque trails.
42 species total, including an unbelievable number of Black-chinned
Hummingbirds. At one point I was watching 10 birds catching gnats right
above my head. I estimate I saw 18 Black-chinned (maybe a low count), 2
Rufous and 2 Broad-tailed. Bird of the day was a toss-up between a
Woodhouse's Scrub Jay shadowing a Cooper's Hawk (the first Scrub Jay I've
seen here), and a Mississippi Kite (also the first one I've seen here).
Very low numbers of waterfowl, but many Blue Grosbeaks and a flock of Cedar
Waxwings. Link to eBird checklist is here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Dh6QCQArYlfJyrz23Hxf9DhGGLoi?<domain...>
I also wanted to recommend a great place to bird in the Sierra Blanca Mts.
above Ruidoso, NM, if you're down that way. I went down last week to look
for the continuing South Polar Skua at Grindstone Lake (found it within 5
minutes of arriving there), then drove up the road to Ski Apache. The Oak
Grove Campground is at about the 4.5 mile marker. It's an undeveloped
campground (no electricity or water) at 8000 feet, but great pine-oak
habitat. The 2024 wildfire burned right up to the edge of the campground,
and a mass of thistle, sunflower and other wildflowers have taken over the
burned area. It was hummingbird heaven -- lots of Black-chinned and
Broad-tailed, plus Rufous and at least 2 Calliope. It's an easy walk
through the campground, and I had a total of 39 species in an hour of
birding. Link to eBird checklist is here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/BQ3QCR8vZmtyzB7MRsNh6kh1cWJH?<domain...>
Betsy Checchia
South Valley, ABQ
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Date: 8/26/26 9:31 am
From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Arthur Pack Regional Park, Blackbird push |
This morning there were several flocks of Yellow-headed Blackbirds migrating through the park. Some stopped in the reeds along the ponds. Noted counts of 7, 26, 14, 2… and 3 female Red-winged Blackbirds.
A non-breeding plumage White-faced Ibis was foraging at the 6/7th holes pond, red eye prominent.
About 8:30 I watched an Osprey dive twice into the 9th hole pond; the second was successful with a 10-12 inch bass. It didn’t stop to eat, last seen heading SW.
Not since May: Four times a call series from the/a Red-shouldered Hawk, coming from the SW area of the park, which is the direction where most of the springtime calls came from. I chased this call all last winter, never laying eyes on the bird.
Only two White-winged Doves this morning as they are pushing southward.
Building up: Tallied 16 Purple Martins wire sitting at 6:30. They were also present over the three ponds so I think these are migrants mixing with the several local hesperia breedings. There were still 11 wire sitting as I was leaving at 8:30.
John R Williams
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Date: 8/21/26 9:41 pm
From: Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] South Polar Skua continues at Grindstone Lake |
The South Polar Skua found last weekend at Grindstone Lake in Ruidoso, NM,
continues to be present. Over 90 birders have reported the bird so far,
with the most recent sighting on Friday afternoon at 5:05 p.m.
Follow this bird and track other regional eBird rarities for live updates:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/7wDgCKAlPNfZNWW71cMfBoh5HjNP?<domain...>
Scott Ray
Catron Co, NM
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Date: 8/21/26 8:14 pm
From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 21 August 2026 |
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on August 21, 2026; the next update will be made on August 28.
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/BRNSCl8WJlt68EzrGsGfMJhzFBzm?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/VlE9Cm7WKmIk3lRxXtOh8mhRkzOQ?<domain...>
Where directions are not given, they can be found in the most recent
edition of Tucson Bird Alliance's "Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona".
More information may be found here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/cXg0CnGWL0cr2D6EwcNiQqhJoxNR?<domain...>
For additional sightings in the region, please see the The Arizona-New
Mexico Birding ListServ (https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/arc/aznmbirds) or
the Arizona Birding group on Facebook (
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Mh3MCoAWMof6RYKn9s6sq8hpJHj4?<domain...>
For more information about Tucson Bird Alliance field trips, lectures and
educational opportunities, please see https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/4rr8Cp9WNpfpWox2kIJt2NhGxUYM?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
*YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON
#Short-tailed Hawk
*PURPLE GALLINULE
*COMMON RINGED PLOVER
*UPLAND SANDPIPER
#Hudsonian Whimbrel
#Semipalmated Sandpiper
#Short-billed Dowitcher
#Buff-collared Nightjar
#Berylline Hummingbird
*TUFTED FLYCATCHER
#Rose-throated Becard
#Hooded Warbler
*FLAME-COLORED TANAGER
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
A first-state record *COMMON RINGED PLOVER was reported on 8/15 (Ezekiel
Dobson) and continued through 8/16 (m.ob.). Later analysis of photos showed
it had been present on 8/14 as well. The *YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON
continued in the pond between Lake Cochise and the Twin Lakes Golf Course
in Willcox through 8/16 (m.ob.). A #SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER was reported on
8/17 and a #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued on 8/20 (m.ob.).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
A *PURPLE GALLINULE was reported at the Green Valley WRF on 8/15 (Alex
Lamoreaux) and continued through 8/19 (m.ob.).
In Madera Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/3YEDCqAWOqfJ3N7QBcruKphEMiK3?<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/RU2fCrgWPrT4YZDqMTGC6Zh4j12b?<domain...>), a #BUFF-COLLARED NIGHTJAR
continued near the bridge in the lower canyon this week (m.ob.).
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/8-4DCvm6WyFr58y91c8FlxhQpmQe?<domain...>)
A *TUFTED FLYCATCHER continued at Barfoot Park on 8/20 (m.ob.). GPS:
(31.91686, -109.28076).
TUCSON area
A *PURPLE GALLINULE continued at El Rio Preserve in Marana on 8/21 (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 8/16 (m.ob.).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In Miller Canyon a *FLAME-COLORED TANAGER continued through 8/17 (m.ob.). A
#HOODED WARBLER continued on 8/21 (Andy DeBroux).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at both Ramsey Canyon Preserve and
Ramsey Canyon Inn this week (m.ob.).
SANTA CRUZ FLATS
An *UPLAND SANDPIPER and #HUDSONIAN WHIMBREL were reported at the corner
of Sunland Gin & Pearce on 8/15 (Steve West).
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).
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The revised 8th edition of Tucson BIrd Alliance's "Finding Birds in
Southeast Arizona" is available here: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/cXg0CnGWL0cr2D6EwcNiQqhJoxNR?<domain...>/
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/DhaACwn6XzHgmxRj6fRHG6hJvDP-?<domain...> for details.
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security
procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching"
link on this page for important information regarding access:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/-uLsCxoWYAIPVvQl8u7IEGhyHetH?<domain...>
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/5J7gCypWZBtAwoy1DinSm2hxB5l9?<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/Uxn5Czqg1DiOZqm1DU1T7Wh9xZxJ?<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.
Andrew Core
SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/6EZ4CA8EBztGXO1Q0SkU9mhG1bHn?<domain...>
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Date: 8/20/26 5:51 pm
From: \Robert O'Brien\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
Ebird currently shows no records away from Bearing Sea
Bob obrien portland.
On Thursday, August 20, 2026, lconrad6853 <aznmbirds...>
wrote:
> The moderators at eBird are volunteers, & most have regular jobs as well.
> They can't always get to everything immediately.
>
>
>
> Anyone with any common sense knows that a report like that is probably
> bogus, and ignores it.
>
>
>
> *From:* <aznmbirds-request...> [mailto:aznmbirds-request@
> list.arizona.edu] *On Behalf Of *Monte Taylor (via aznmbirds Mailing List)
> *Sent:* Thursday, August 20, 2026 3:36 PM
> *To:* <aznmbirds...>
> *Subject:* [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post
>
>
>
> Always use a grain of caution when people post very rare birds to eBird.
> Sad too that it doesn't get corrected quickly either. There's been a Common
> Sandpiper post on eBird nearly a week ago, and even reposted twice more and
> nobody at eBird corrects it. Amazing.
>
> Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
> <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/HaGZCvm6WyFr5EQgguQflxhQX3_d?<domain...>
>
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Date: 8/20/26 5:44 pm
From: lconrad6853 (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: RE: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
The moderators at eBird are volunteers, & most have regular jobs as well. They can't always get to everything immediately.
Anyone with any common sense knows that a report like that is probably bogus, and ignores it.
From: <aznmbirds-request...> [mailto:<aznmbirds-request...>] On Behalf Of Monte Taylor (via aznmbirds Mailing List)
Sent: Thursday, August 20, 2026 3:36 PM
To: <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post
Always use a grain of caution when people post very rare birds to eBird. Sad too that it doesn't get corrected quickly either. There's been a Common Sandpiper post on eBird nearly a week ago, and even reposted twice more and nobody at eBird corrects it. Amazing.
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/UWgTC8XrpnfB0X3ZNCnfgwhyB-O7?<domain...>
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Date: 8/20/26 3:51 pm
From: \Johnson, D. Richard\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
Monte,
Not to sure who moderates the AZM bird list. But I can confirm that the birders in Pima County are diligent, timely and extremely well qualified.
In my experience, which covers multiple fields, been tough to find genuine professionals in any “arena” for at least 10 years. Take what you can find and share your positive information. Good luck.
Richard Parent-Johnson, PhD
Retired
Sent from my iPhone
On Aug 20, 2026, at 6:38 PM, Monte Taylor <aznmbirds...> wrote:
Always use a grain of caution when people post very rare birds to eBird. Sad too that it doesn't get corrected quickly either. There's been a Common Sandpiper post on eBird nearly a week ago, and even reposted twice more and nobody at eBird corrects it. Amazing.
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer<https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Hs2DC0Aj5NfY5GZKPuwfPzh9dqSY?<domain...>
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Date: 8/20/26 3:38 pm
From: Monte Taylor (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...>
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Mexican Violetear post |
Always use a grain of caution when people post very rare birds to eBird. Sad too that it doesn't get corrected quickly either. There's been a Common Sandpiper post on eBird nearly a week ago, and even reposted twice more and nobody at eBird corrects it. Amazing.
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
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