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.
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.
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
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...>
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.
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:
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...>
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.).
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).
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.
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.
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...> >
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.
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.
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.
Date: 8/20/26 8:50 am From: Jeff Ladderud (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Maricopa - Pacific Golden-Plover seen by dozens
I would counter that this bird is not “relatively easy to locate”. It
would seem that many observers’s comments (and my own experience) suggest
lots of scanning with a scope in really hot conditions, and a little luck
are required to find this bird. And that it can disappear from right under
one’s watch as you try to get others on it. Good luck to those chasing!
Jeff Ladderud
Tucson, AZ
On Thu, Aug 20, 2026 at 7:54 AM Scott R <aznmbirds...> wrote:
Date: 8/19/26 7:50 am From: Scott R (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Apparent 1st AZ Mexican Violetear eBird record in Pima
Date: 8/14/26 9:25 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 14 August 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on August 14, 2026; the next update will be made on August 21.
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/j36lCwn6XzHg3m4mNUVfG6hJqX5o?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/1OcsCxoWYAIPoVgVXIvhEGhyoQSZ?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
*YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON
#Roseate Spoonbill
#Short-tailed Hawk
*PURPLE GALLINULE
#Semipalmated Sandpiper
#Buff-collared Nightjar
#Berylline Hummingbird
*EARED QUETZAL
*TUFTED FLYCATCHER
#Rose-throated Becard
#White-eyed Vireo
#Red-eyed Vireo
#Hooded Warbler
#Rufous-capped Warbler
*FLAME-COLORED TANAGER
*BLACK-VENTED ORIOLE
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
In Madera Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/aVaECB1GDATz5rkrnt1uyWh24U8O?<domain...>), a *BLACK-VENTED ORIOLE was
recorded on 8/14 (Steve Abbot) near the upper parking area on the Old Baldy
Trail. It was also possibly heard on 8/11 (Alex Sundvall) on the Carrie
Nation Trail (the two trails join a short distance from the parking lot
before diverging again). These locations are less than 1/4 mile from the Mt
Wrightson Picnic Area.
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/Tc1LCDwKGDTDlzWzxFRCGxhjMWal?<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/ZQmPCEKLJEtk52z2qHxFGNh7Mztw?<domain...>)
An *EARED QUETZAL was reported again on 8/12 (m.ob.) in the South Fork of
Cave Creek Canyon at the 4th (dry) stream crossing.
A *TUFTED FLYCATCHER continued at Barfoot Park on 8/14 (m.ob.). GPS:
(31.91686, -109.28076).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at the Southwestern Research Station
through 8/9 (m.ob.).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
A *YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON continued in the pond between Lake Cochise
and the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox through 8/14 (m.ob.). A
#SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued on 8/14 (m.ob.).
TUCSON area
A *PURPLE GALLINULE continued at El Rio Preserve in Marana on 8/14 (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 8/7 (m.ob.).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In Miller Canyon a *FLAME-COLORED TANAGER continued this week (m.ob.) near
the old mill. GPS: (31.4112, -110.28177). A #HOODED WARBLER was
photographed on 8/11 (David Provencher).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at both Ramsey Canyon Preserve and
Ramsey Canyon Inn this week (m.ob.).
AMADO
A #ROSEATE SPOONBILL was photographed at a small basin off Amado-Montosa Rd
on 8/12 (Ted Wolff) and continued on 8/13 (m.ob.). Presumably the same bird
was seen on 8/14 (Shay Lopez) at Tinaja Desert Art Retreat about 7 miles to
the north, where it was seen throughout the day (m.ob.). See
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Q4dyCGwNLJT25RPR8hrHmXhBjKPZ?<domain...> for contact and access info if the bird
continues; a $5 donation is suggested.
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.
ARIVACA & BUENOS AIRES NWR
A #RED-EYED VIREO was reported at Arivaca Cienega on Buenos Aires NWR on
8/9 (Peter DeGennaro). GPS: (31.572016, -111.323164)
NOGALES area
A #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER continued this week in Sycamore Canyon (m.ob.).
GPS (31.4231, -111.1949).
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/xgb_CKAlPNfZ5NYN1hkSBoh5KskJ?<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/UdEXCM7nRPIv41L1JhqUZ9h8z7UM?<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/K8_GCN7oVgIwm8Q86U3c2Ohy7Yc_?<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: 8/14/26 9:15 pm From: Tom Hildebrandt (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Elf Owls and crickets - no current observations
I have a haiku box and so get at least somewhat reliable info about birds
on my place. It's in oak savannah at 5000' on the east side of the
Huachucas. I always have elf owls around during the season, but the season
was over locally about the last week in July. I think not coincidentally
the plague of field crickets that I get every year petered out at just
about the same time. Hoards going to near zero in just a couple of weeks.
Spring Field Crickets. Anyone know the whole story on this? I have just
the observation.
Tom
On Thu, Aug 13, 2026, 5:45 AM "T.G. Miko" <aznmbirds...>
wrote:
> Hi,
> I am done taking care of the main reason I drove to Arizona and now I
> could I would be happy to take a detour to look for the tufted fly catcher
> but it looks to me like all reports from yesterday, August 12, we’re
> negative. I assume that those 10 people were looking for the fly catcher.
> If anybody knows anything, please let me know as soon as possible. I am
> leaving a hotel in Tucson right now (Thursday 8/13/2026) at 05:40 in the
> morning and heading towards Barfoot Park, but if that bird is gone, I don’t
> wanna drive all the way down there. I’d rather start heading home to Los
> Angeles.
> Tom
> PS: I have been trying to join the Discord group. They have sent me links
> that are supposedly valid, but each time I receive the link I immediately
> click on it, but It doesn’t work. Still working on that problem. I think
> that’s why I never joined the Discord group in the first place when it
> started up a long time ago. I am on other Discord groups in other states
> and have no problems there. So, please do continue posting bird information
> to this list; especially time sensitive stuff for rare birds. It just
> showed up.
>
> Thomas Geza Miko
> Claremont CA 91711
> 909.241.3300
>
Date: 8/13/26 5:45 am From: \T.G. Miko\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] no Tufted Flycatxher?
Hi,
I am done taking care of the main reason I drove to Arizona and now I could
I would be happy to take a detour to look for the tufted fly catcher but it
looks to me like all reports from yesterday, August 12, we’re negative. I
assume that those 10 people were looking for the fly catcher. If anybody
knows anything, please let me know as soon as possible. I am leaving a
hotel in Tucson right now (Thursday 8/13/2026) at 05:40 in the morning and
heading towards Barfoot Park, but if that bird is gone, I don’t wanna drive
all the way down there. I’d rather start heading home to Los Angeles.
Tom
PS: I have been trying to join the Discord group. They have sent me links
that are supposedly valid, but each time I receive the link I immediately
click on it, but It doesn’t work. Still working on that problem. I think
that’s why I never joined the Discord group in the first place when it
started up a long time ago. I am on other Discord groups in other states
and have no problems there. So, please do continue posting bird information
to this list; especially time sensitive stuff for rare birds. It just
showed up.
Date: 8/12/26 3:09 pm From: Steven Tracey (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: San Pedro House Birding Walk
Hi Birders,
This morning things were looking ominous as I drove through a rainy Sierra
Vista on the way to San Pedro House, but by the time I got there I had come
out from under the rain. In the end we had pretty nice weather for the
walk. Unfortunately, it was also apparently nice weather for the
mosquitoes along the river, so bring your repellent when you join us on
future walks. Five locals managed to find 37 species in between feeding
mosquitoes on a slightly shorter than usual path. With the rain overnight
the San Pedro River became a raging torrent completely flooding kingfisher
pond and its surrounding trails. The estimate of river height was about
10ft which was quite impressive. Likely spurred on by rains we got some
good views of Mexican Spadefoots and along the main trail a Western
Diamondback Rattlesnake coiled up and gave us a few rattles before we moved
on.
Oh yeah... the birds. Along Del Valle road we had nice flocks of moving
Lazuli Buntings as well as Botteri's and Cassin's Sparrows competing for
high count on the walk. Botteri's won. Most of the summer usuals were
still around. Chats, Blue Grosbeaks, N. Yellow Warblers, and Summer
Tanagers all made multiple appearances. No cuckoos this morning, though.
By the next walk we expect to see some migrating warblers, so think about
joining.
The Friends of the San Pedro River leads birding walks the 2nd and 4th
Wednesday of the month. For the month of August, the walks leave at 6:00a
from the BLM’s San Pedro House south of State Route 90 just west of the San
Pedro River. We walk about 2 to 3 miles and are out for about three hours.
Bring your own binoculars, a hat and water.
The next San Pedro House birding walk is on Wednesday, August 26 at 6:00a.
Date: 8/7/26 10:04 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 7 August 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on August 7, 2026; the next update will be made on August 13.
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/Hb8PCWWA5rTNR5Z9PF6fkEhoEPc7?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Dgo2CXYBgvfkVXj5qhVhL4hWykY6?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Reddish Egret
*YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON
#Roseate Spoonbill
#Short-tailed Hawk
*PURPLE GALLINULE
#Semipalmated Sandpiper
#Buff-collared Nightjar
#Berylline Hummingbird
*EARED QUETZAL
*TUFTED FLYCATCHER
#Rose-throated Becard
#Gray Catbird
#Hooded Warbler
#Rufous-capped Warbler
*FLAME-COLORED TANAGER
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/jPQaC2GljPc0PpWlRIMu3zh58R2H?<domain...>)
An *EARED QUETZAL was reported again on 8/6 and 87 (m.ob.) in the South
Fork of Cave Creek Canyon at the 4th (dry) stream crossing. A *TUFTED
FLYCATCHER was recorded on 8/1 (Ryan Hood).
Another *TUFTED FLYCATCHER was reported (and later photographed) at Barfoot
Park on 8/6 (James Petersen) and continued on 8/7 (m.ob.). GPS: (31.91686,
-109.28076).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at the Southwestern Research Station
this week (m.ob.).
TUCSON area
A *PURPLE GALLINULE was photographed at El Rio Preserve in Marana on 8/3
(Andrew Core) on the west side and continued through 8/7 (m.ob.).
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 8/7 (m.ob.).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
A *YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON continued in the pond between Lake Cochise
and the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox through 8/7 (m.ob.). A
#SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER was reported on 8/4 and 8/5 (m.ob.).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In Miller Canyon a *FLAME-COLORED TANAGER continued this week (m.ob.) near
the old mill. GPS: (31.4112, -110.28177).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued in Ramsey Canyon Preserve through 8/6
and was seen at the Ramsey Canyon Inn on 8/3 (m.ob.).
SANTA CRUZ FLATS
A #REDDISH EGRET was photographed at Evergreen Turf Sod Farm at Tweedy &
Pretzer on 8/2 (Paul Heveran). Friendly reminder: 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.
A #ROSEATE SPOONBILL was photographed along Harmon Road east of Sunshine Rd
on 8/2 (Muriel Neddermeyer).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
In Box Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/u2jPC3YmkgfW6poAGFYCZNhQOCjM?<domain...>), a #BUFF-COLLARED NIGHTJAR
continued near the bridge in the lower canyon this week (m.ob.).
In Madera Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/HTxXC4WnljTRMBE0miNFGlh4oWQc?<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.). Note 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.
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.
GREENLEE COUNTY
#GRAY CATBIRDS were reported at two different spots along the Black River
on 8/2 and 8/3 (Michael Behnke)
NOGALES area
A #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER continued this week in Sycamore Canyon (m.ob.).
GPS (31.4231, -111.1949).
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/onxbC5Aomkfw5Z3jxu4Hq4hkiGg8?<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/_YzXC7Dqomin4A2pQUrS3jhoiKAb?<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/wXjcC8XrpnfBD6WvziKTgwhyO3S6?<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.
Around 4 pm today, Jim was on our front patio, which faces east. He saw
what he thought was a Turkey Vulture (which we don't see that often in
summer here).
It flew out of view, but then came back around, and this time he had his
binoculars at the ready, and got good views of a Zone-tailed Hawk! It was
flying in large circles, more or less over the Pet Cemetery, which is
adjacent/just north of the East Lawn Palms Cemetery. We've only seen them
from the house once or twice in the 13 yrs at this location - fun
sighting!
> Hi,
> Apparently, there was a one day wonder appearance of a Blue Black
> Grassquit at Buenos Aires NWR, and no emails went out on this list. Please
> remember to also post rare birds like that to this list. Have Arizona
> birders moved over to some other method like WhatsApp?
> Tom
>
> Thomas Geza Miko
> Claremont CA 91711
> 909.241.3300
>
Date: 7/31/26 9:12 pm From: Andrew Core (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 31 July 2026
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Bird Alliance's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona
was made on July 31, 2026; the next update will be made on August 7. 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/ZdgwCp9WNpfpZKmJ4cPfxfGI8OU?<domain...> A list of review
species can be found here:
https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/f4rCCqAWOqfJvlZxYuXhYfE9Ov2?<domain...>
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT:
#Tricolored Heron
*YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON
#Short-tailed Hawk
#Semipalmated Sandpiper
#Buff-collared Nightjar
#Berylline Hummingbird
*EARED QUETZAL
#Rose-throated Becard
#Black-capped Gnatcatcher
#Hooded Warbler
#Rufous-capped Warbler
*FLAME-COLORED TANAGER
#Orchard Oriole
*BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT
ARIVACA & BUENOS AIRES NWR
A *BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT was photographed in Buenos Aires NWR on 7/30 (Nate
Peterson) at Triangle Pond near the HQ but was not found on 7/31(m.ob.).
A #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER was recorded in Bartolo Cove at Arivaca Lake on
7/27 (Brian Nicholas). GPS: 31.52436, -111.24792
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/e359CxoWYAIPjwkgESWuLfyFxLK?<domain...>)
An *EARED QUETZAL was recorded on 7/27 (Richard Webster) in the South Fork
of Cave Creek Canyon at the 4th (dry) stream crossing and heard again on
7/28 (m.ob.).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued at the Southwestern Research Station
this week (m.ob.).
An #ORCHARD ORIOLE was photographed in a Portal yard on 7/31 (Scott Huber).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
A *YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON was photographed in the pond between Lake
Cochise and the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox on 7/25 (Amy Kearns) and
continued through 7/31 (m.ob.). A #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued through
7/28 (m.ob.).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In Miller Canyon a *FLAME-COLORED TANAGER continued this week (m.ob.) near
the old mill. GPS: (31.4112, -110.28177).
A #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD continued in Ramsey Canyon Preserve through 7/29
(m.ob.).
NOGALES area
A #TRICOLORED HERON was reported flying over the Las Lagunas de Anza
wetlands on 7/29 (Rob Rutledge).
A #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER continued this week in Sycamore Canyon (m.ob.).
GPS (31.4231, -111.1949).
TUCSON area
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 7/30 (m.ob.).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
In Box Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/2VKMCypWZBtA3kZQOtPCwfx47X2?<domain...>), a #BUFF-COLLARED NIGHTJAR
continued near the bridge in the lower canyon this week (m.ob.).
In Madera Canyon (map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/e2MyCzqg1DiOz96yWiMFzf99wUm?<domain...>), a #BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD
continued at the Santa Rita Lodge and Madera Kubo B&B 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.). Note 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.
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.
TUBAC area (annotated map: https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/IlXCCA8EBztG524PpiBHGfGxyXF?<domain...>)
#BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS were reported in Rock Corral Canyon on 7/27 (Ben
Lucking) west of Santa Gertrudis Lane. A high clearance, four-wheel drive
vehicle is recommended; the birds have been between the corral and the
unofficial campground. GPS: (31.551644, -111.09315).
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/VE8UCB1GDATzNBjkWcQINf2Eoox?<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/uFdoCEKLJEtkjMLz4SkTyf7hydm?<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/AWrNCGwNLJT29GkP3IPUPfBYZJG?<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: 7/31/26 8:23 pm From: \T.G. Miko\ (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Blue Black Grassquit
Hi,
Apparently, there was a one day wonder appearance of a Blue Black Grassquit
at Buenos Aires NWR, and no emails went out on this list. Please remember
to also post rare birds like that to this list. Have Arizona birders moved
over to some other method like WhatsApp?
Tom
Date: 7/30/26 8:50 am From: Doug Jenness (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Red-shouldered Hawk-- 'Species of the Month'
30 July 2026
One of the newer birds to Arizona is the RED-SHOULDERED HAWK, a rare
visitor and very localized nesting species. The August species of the month
<https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/ptzlC93vqourOv79RcoflfqEMO1?<domain...> feature
in *Arizona Birds*, the online journal of the Arizona Field Ornithologists,
describes this interesting raptor.
If you haven't read it yet, you should also take a look at the article on
the important role the Arizona Bird Committee plays as the keeper of the
records of Arizona birds, and why it's important to submit reports of
rarities to the committee. It is here
<https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/4ZcOCjAWEjfZO2NPlt7sKfmZDcF?<domain...> .
Date: 7/29/26 6:08 pm From: Douglas Fisher (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Mt. Lemmon area
Thanks for the warning! A couple falls ago, our GPS indicated it as a county road, and as we were visiting from Montreal, naively trusted it! Fortunately, we were in a high clearance 4x4 SUV and I had some prior experience on rough roads and we managed to get down without incident. But my wife was less than thrilled with the experience, and not at all comfortable with the steep drop offs and switchbacks. Slowly and cautiously were the only viable options. It wasn’t the first, nor the last time a GPS led us to what became astray, (we also have had issues on “roads” in Florida, Arizona, and Texas,) but those darn local birds always turned the inconveniences just one more chapter for our tales of adventures in birding!
Sent from my iPad
> On Jul 29, 2026, at 3:42 PM, Olga Harbour <aznmbirds...> wrote:
>
>
> Hi folks,
>
> After swearing two years ago that we would never drive the Control Rd. again, we were there this morning. The road seemed even worse today than two years ago! We found a wide-enough space to turn around and headed over to the Meadow Trail.
>
> Birds of the day were a single Red-faced Warbler and seven Red Crossbills. The crossbills were near/on the ski lift gear near the end of the road. There were a male, a female, and five juveniles, quite a treat! I was going to try to get a photo of the crossbills, but found it rather difficult to get a photo when the camera battery's dead! 🙄
>
> Wishing you good birding!
>
> Olga Harbour
> Tucson, AZ
>
>
>
> Yesterday, we drove it from the bottom in Oracle all the way up to the
> top. It is definitely much degraded from several years ago. We were in a
> Subaru CrossTrek . If you don’t have four-wheel-drive skills, you shouldn’t
> attempt the road. Multiple times we had to exit the car to plan our route
> through some of the rock fields. We only scraped the underside rails twice.
> I would not recommend it for anybody who isn’t comfortable with taking
> routes right along the edge of the canyons.
>
>
> Christopher Vincent
>
> <cj...>
>
> 520.907.8735
>
> WOW Arizona - Web
> <https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/9vqtCWWA5rTN4DvQDI6fxfoA0g7?<domain...> >
> On Jul 29, 2026, at 1:09 PM, Mark Stevenson <aznmbirds...>
> wrote:
>
>
> The county said that they were not going to maintain the difficult section
> any more. It's now an unmaintained 4WD road, at least in that section.
>
> Mark Stevenson
> Tucson, AZ
>
> On Wed, Jul 29, 2026, 12:42 PM Olga Harbour <aznmbirds...>
> wrote:
>
>> Hi folks,
>>
>> After swearing two years ago that we would never drive the Control Rd.
>> again, we were there this morning. The road seemed even worse today than
>> two years ago! We found a wide-enough space to turn around and headed over
>> to the Meadow Trail.
>>
>> Birds of the day were a single Red-faced Warbler and seven Red
>> Crossbills. The crossbills were near/on the ski lift gear near the end of
>> the road. There were a male, a female, and five juveniles, quite a treat!
>> I was going to try to get a photo of the crossbills, but found it rather
>> difficult to get a photo when the camera battery's dead! 🙄
>>
>> Wishing you good birding!
>>
>> Olga Harbour
>> Tucson, AZ
>>
>>
>>
>>
Date: 7/29/26 3:38 pm From: John Williams (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Kitt Peak, Swifts
This morning I attended a tour of Kitt Peak observatory with the local chapter of the Society of American Foresters. (I retired from the Forest Service) Arriving at 9AM, there were hundreds of Wandering Glider dragonflies in the air…. They attracted a flock of swifts…. But to my surprise, out of 10-12 hawking about, only one was a White-throated Swift…. The rest were Black Swifts….. big Black Swifts. They moved on before I could get any photos but several of our group saw them.
Field marks I observed in the two or three minutes: All black, notably forked tail, larger than the single White-throated Swift.
It was one of those amazing moments that could have been easily been missed.
Date: 7/29/26 1:09 pm From: Mark Stevenson (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Mt. Lemmon area
The county said that they were not going to maintain the difficult section
any more. It's now an unmaintained 4WD road, at least in that section.
Mark Stevenson
Tucson, AZ
On Wed, Jul 29, 2026, 12:42 PM Olga Harbour <aznmbirds...>
wrote:
> Hi folks,
>
> After swearing two years ago that we would never drive the Control Rd.
> again, we were there this morning. The road seemed even worse today than
> two years ago! We found a wide-enough space to turn around and headed over
> to the Meadow Trail.
>
> Birds of the day were a single Red-faced Warbler and seven Red Crossbills.
> The crossbills were near/on the ski lift gear near the end of the road.
> There were a male, a female, and five juveniles, quite a treat! I was
> going to try to get a photo of the crossbills, but found it rather
> difficult to get a photo when the camera battery's dead! 🙄
>
> Wishing you good birding!
>
> Olga Harbour
> Tucson, AZ
>
>
>
>
Date: 7/29/26 12:42 pm From: Olga Harbour (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Mt. Lemmon area
Hi folks,
After swearing two years ago that we would never drive the Control Rd. again, we were there this morning. The road seemed even worse today than two years ago! We found a wide-enough space to turn around and headed over to the Meadow Trail.
Birds of the day were a single Red-faced Warbler and seven Red Crossbills. The crossbills were near/on the ski lift gear near the end of the road. There were a male, a female, and five juveniles, quite a treat! I was going to try to get a photo of the crossbills, but found it rather difficult to get a photo when the camera battery's dead! 🙄
