Date: 8/3/26 8:52 am From: Gail Coffey <gcoffeywriter...> Subject: [NHBirds] Blue-winged Warbler in Wilton
Yesterday, we had a Blue-winged Warbler in our yard-which is a new addition to our yard list. Think it was a male as the bird had a bright yellow crown. He was foraging in our paper birch trees for a while so got great looks.
We still have two Wood Thrushes singing at night :).
Enjoy the migrants as much as you can over the next month.
Date: 8/3/26 8:14 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, August 3, 2026.
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for August 3rd, 2026.
37 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen at Jeffrey’s Ledge on August 1st, and 22
were seen there on August 2nd.
2 AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHERS were seen flying offshore from Odiorne Point
State Park in Rye on August 1st.
A HUDSONIAN GODWIT was seen at Meadow Pond in Hampton on July 27th and 29th.
A STILT SANDPIPER was seen from Marsh Pond Road in Rye on August 2nd.
A SANDERLING and a BONAPARTE’S GULL were seen at Moore Reservoir in
Littleton on July 30th.
A PECTORAL SANDPIPER was seen at the Rochester Wastewater Treatment Plant
on July 24th. The treatment plant is gated and the hours of operation are
7:30-2:00 on weekdays only. If you visit, please be out of the plant by
1:45 so that plant personnel do not have to ask birders to leave. Do not
drive on the dikes and do not block the road. The Trails at Pickering
Ponds, located east of the plant, are not gated, and are always open during
daylight hours.
An ATLANTIC PUFFIN was seen at the Isles of Shoals on July 29th.
An ARCTIC TERN was reported from Hampton Harbor on
July 31st.
The continuing BRIDLED TERN was not reported during the past week, but may
still be present at the Isles of Shoals.
An AMERICAN COOT was seen at Pleasant Lake in New London on August 1st.
A LITTLE BLUE HERON was seen in the Parson’s Creek salt marsh located west
of Route 1A and across from Wallis Sands State Beach.
3 SNOWY EGRETS were seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on July 30th, 1 was
seen at Jackson’s Landing in Durham on the 30th and 1 was seen at the
Pickering Ponds in Rochester on the 28th.
A RED-NECKED GREBE was seen along the coast in Rye on July 31st.
A LONG-TAILED DUCK was seen in Hampton Harbor on July 30th.
Nesting MISSISSIPPI KITES continued to be reported from Woodridge Park in
Durham during the past week, and were last reported on August 1st.
2 SANDHILL CRANES were seen in fields along Plains Road in Monroe, and 3
were seen in fields in East Conway, all on August 2nd.
A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER was reported from Alton Bay on July 27th. The
observer provided this detailed description: ‘This bird had a yellow throat
with two wing bars, a fairly prominent white eyebrow along with a
noticeable white eye crescent and black ear patches.”
A RED-HEADED WOODPECKER was seen on Poor Farm Road in Weare on August 1st.
An ORCHARD ORIOLE and a GRASSHOPPER SPARROW were seen at Arboretum Drive
across from Pease International Tradeport on August 2nd.
A WILLOW FLYCATCHER was seen at the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on July 29th.
11 PURPLE MARTINS were seen on private property in Lee on July 31st.
A BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER was seen at Bush Street in Marlborough on August 2nd
.
A FISH CROW was heard and seen at Plymouth State University on July 24th.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 8/2/26 8:02 pm From: 'Bird Watcher's Supply & Gift' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Optics Day- Sunday, Aug 9
Bird Watcher’s Supply & Gift in Newburyport, MA is inviting everyone to their annual Optics Day on Sunday August 9, 10am - 3pm. Manufacturer’s reps from Zeiss and Swarovski will be showing their latest products and answering your questions. The new Zeiss Apia 65mm spotting scope, and the new Endura 75mm spotting scope from Swarovski, will be available for you to try and buy! If you are thinking about a new pair of binoculars or a spotting scope, MA SALES TAX-FREE WEEKEND is a great time to buy. We are also offering substantial discounts on all in-stock binoculars and spotting scopes, which also include Kowa, Nikon and Vortex, for the tax-free weekend. There will be additional discounts on overstocks, closeouts and discontinued binoculars and scopes. There will also be a FREE RAFFLE on Sunday for a pair of Nikon Monarch M5 binoculars. Just come in for Optics Day next Sunday for a chance to win FREE BINOCULARS, compliments of Nikon! Please visit our website: birdwatcherssupplyandgifts. com Hope to see you there! Steve Grinley Bird Watcher's Supply & Gift 45 Storey Ave Newburyport, MA 01950 <Birdwsg...> 978-462-0775
Date: 8/2/26 5:29 pm From: Steve Hale <srhale20...> Subject: [NHBirds] Imp Trail and Carter Ridge
I had a great hike n' bird outing today in the White Mountains. I started on the north limb of the Imp Trail and hiked up to tap Carter Ridge (via the North Carter Trail) and the descend via the south limb of Imp Trail. The hike produced a great bird list especially up toward the 4,500ft ridge via North Carter Trail. Species list is below. 8.7 miles; 3,300ft gain.
Species (20) Peregrine Falcon - two birds flying just over the tree tops near trailhead on Rte. 16; one making a racket Blue-headed Vireo Red-eyed Vireo Canada Jay - two adults; very close Blue Jay Common Raven Black-capped Chickadee Boreal Chickadee - several encounters; Golden-crowned Kinglet Red-breasted Nuthatch Brown Creeper Hermit Thrush American Robin - three robins in the thick spruce-fir Cedar Waxwing White-winged Crossbill - beautiful singer. I didn't see it, but distinctive song repeated a few times Pine Siskin - Flyover Dark-eyed Junco Blackpoll Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler
Large group of shorebirds flew in this afternoon around 230. Difficult to get an accurate count but a very rough estimate is between 300 and 400 individuals. Group consisted of Semipalmated Sandipiper (60-65 %) and Semipalmated Plover. Spotted Sandpiper 1 Note: With binoculars, I noticed a red structure in the upper portion of its right wing but the Spotted flew off as I tried to get a scope view. Wondering if it might be a geolocator or some other tag?
Date: 7/30/26 7:10 am From: Milton Trimitsis <trimitsis...> Subject: [NHBirds] Kowa spotting scope for sale
With the permission of the moderator, I am offering my Kowa TSN-883
spotting scope for sale. It’s in pristine condition and comes with the
older 20-60x eyepiece as well as the newer 25-60x wide-angle eyepiece. It
also has a padded nylon stay-on case. I bought this new from Bird
Watchers’ Supply and Gift in Newburyport, but since I moved away from the
coast I don’t use it as much as it deserves. I’m asking $2100 for it. I am
happy to answer questions and to provide photos if anyone is interested.
I’m located in Cheshire County and happy to meet up within reasonable
distance to show it.
Date: 7/27/26 12:31 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, July 27, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for July 27th, 2026.
The BRIDLED TERN was reported again from the New Hampshire part of the
Isles of Shoals on July 24th.
A BLACK-HEADED GULL was seen in Rye Harbor on July 22nd.
A HORNED GREBE was seen along the coast in Rye on July 26th.
A PECTORAL SANDPIPER was seen at Ragged Neck section of Rye Harbor State
Park on July 21st, and 2 were seen at the Rochester Wastewater Treatment
Plant on July 24th. The treatment plant is gated and the hours of operation
are 7:30-2:00 on weekdays only. If you visit, please be out of the plant by
1:45 so that plant personnel do not have to ask birders to leave. Do not
drive on the dikes and do not block the road. The Trails at Pickering
Ponds, located east of the plant, are not gated, and are always open during
daylight hours.
3 juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS were seen at Sand Pond in Marlow on
July 26th.
2 SNOWY EGRETS were seen at Chapman’s Landing in Stratham on July 27th, 1
was seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on July 26th, and 1 was seen at
Jackson’s Landing in Durham on the 23rd.
2 BLACK VULTURES were seen at the Cranberry Pond Wetlands in West Lebanon
on July 24th.
Nesting MISSISSIPPI KITES continued to be reported from Dover during the
past week.
2 ORCHARD ORIOLES were seen at the Adam’s Point Wildlife Management Area on
July 23rd, and 1 was seen at the Wright Farm in Atkinson on the 21st.
There were several reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS during the past week.
3 WILLOW FLYCATCHERS were seen at the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on July 23rd..
2 HORNED LARKS were seen at Pease International Tradeport from Short Street
in Newington on July 27th.
6 RED CROSSBILLS were heard and seen at the Ashuelot River Headwaters
Forest in Lempster on July 23rd.
A VESPER SPARROW was seen at the Groveton Wastewater Treatment Plant on
July 25th.
A FISH CROW was heard and seen at Plymouth State University on July 24th.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 7/27/26 12:23 pm From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, July 27, 2026
-RBA
*New Hampshire
*July 27, 2026
*NHNH0727.26
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for July 27th, 2026.
The BRIDLED TERN was reported again from the New Hampshire part of the
Isles of Shoals on July 24th.
A BLACK-HEADED GULL was seen in Rye Harbor on July 22nd.
A HORNED GREBE was seen along the coast in Rye on July 26th.
A PECTORAL SANDPIPER was seen at Ragged Neck section of Rye Harbor State
Park on July 21st, and 2 were seen at the Rochester Wastewater Treatment
Plant on July 24th. The treatment plant is gated and the hours of operation
are 7:30-2:00 on weekdays only. If you visit, please be out of the plant by
1:45 so that plant personnel do not have to ask birders to leave. Do not
drive on the dikes and do not block the road. The Trails at Pickering
Ponds, located east of the plant, are not gated, and are always open during
daylight hours.
3 juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS were seen at Sand Pond in Marlow on
July 26th.
2 SNOWY EGRETS were seen at Chapman’s Landing in Stratham on July 27th, 1
was seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on July 26th, and 1 was seen at
Jackson’s Landing in Durham on the 23rd.
2 BLACK VULTURES were seen at the Cranberry Pond Wetlands in West Lebanon
on July 24th.
Nesting MISSISSIPPI KITES continued to be reported from Dover during the
past week.
2 ORCHARD ORIOLES were seen at the Adam’s Point Wildlife Management Area on
July 23rd, and 1 was seen at the Wright Farm in Atkinson on the 21st.
There were several reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS during the past week.
3 WILLOW FLYCATCHERS were seen at the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on July 23rd..
2 HORNED LARKS were seen at Pease International Tradeport from Short Street
in Newington on July 27th.
6 RED CROSSBILLS were heard and seen at the Ashuelot River Headwaters
Forest in Lempster on July 23rd.
A VESPER SPARROW was seen at the Groveton Wastewater Treatment Plant on
July 25th.
A FISH CROW was heard and seen at Plymouth State University on July 24th.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 7/27/26 7:31 am From: 'Susan' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] swallows and rd tailed hawks
Saturday mid morning the sky above our yard was filled with chittering Tree Swallows. They spent most of the day zooming around and calling to each other. Where I sat on my deck, I was not aware of any insects. In fact sadly there have been very few insects around. This behavior repeated again on Sunday.
At the same time a Red Tailed Hawk youngster spent the day circling around our area (where I am sure his nest had been) calling relentlessly for FOOD ! He was joined by his sibling on Sunday. They are both out there again today making a very pitiful racket, and for good reason as both parents made food deliveries yesterday. That was a noisy event!
Susan Hunter, Bedford
Date: 7/27/26 5:36 am From: Alfred Maley <alfredmaley...> Subject: [NHBirds] Notes on a Barred Owl Interaction #2
Most of the time the pair of Barred Owls roost/snooze/preen a ways apart
from each other in the crabapple trees. For some reason or other they then
get closer together (1-2 feet apart) and then the male will have a
conversation with the female. One of these conversations occurred yesterday
about mid-day before the male flew down to the lawn and began a 10 minute
“sunbathe”.
The sound he made can actually be described, unlike many other calls these
owls make. Imagine an owl that stuttered, trying to say “whoopie pie” and
it just came out as a soft “whoop-whoop-whoop-whoop”. What in the world
this means I have no idea. It may mean “I’ll be right back” or “wanna go
sunbathing with me?” or anything devious minds can imagine. It will take
several more observations of the context to have any idea, but this call
seems to always be given when the male is physically close to the female,
as if he didn’t want anyone to hear what he was saying.
Date: 7/23/26 10:59 am From: birdrecords <birdrecords...> Subject: [NHBirds] Joy of Birding: Spring Rarities, Summer Birds & Stories from the Field
Summer in Motion!
Summer can seem quiet (especially compared to the excitement of spring migration), but the season is full of activity. Swallows race overhead, while the first shorebirds are already beginning their long journeys south. There is always something to notice in the business of summer.
This month's stories on Joy of Birding<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/> are headlined by the Spring 2026 Season Summary<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/season-summary-spring-2026/>, published less than two months after the season's end. Eric Masterson looks back on one of New Hampshire's most memorable spring seasons, featuring standout rarities, remarkable birding events, and what this year's observations may tell us about the future of birding in the Granite State.
The July collection also includes a fun selection of field notes, with stories of a gull swallowing a snake, Broad-winged Hawks feeding on earthworms, a rare Painted Bunting, memorable shorebird encounters, Lawrence's Warbler, Orchard Orioles, and much more. Visit our "From the Field"<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/from-the-field/> section to explore these stories from New Hampshire birders.
We hope you'll enjoy exploring this month's stories on Joy of Birding.
About Joy of Birding
Joy of Birding is the online home of New Hampshire Bird Records, a publication that has documented New Hampshire's bird sightings, seasons, and birding stories for more than 40 years. The transition from print to online has allowed us to continue sharing the stories of New Hampshire's birds while making them freely available to everyone, from experienced birders to those just beginning to explore the world of birds.
Visit the Joy of Birding (https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/) homepage to explore the latest articles and sign up for our monthly newsletter, featuring new stories, seasonal highlights, and birding news from around the Granite State delivered directly to your inbox.
Date: 7/23/26 7:44 am From: '<raqbirds...>' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Pine Siskin highlights busy morning in Webster
My yard was alive with bird activity this morning after the passage of the "cool" front last night.
The Pine Siskin was the most unusual species (my first ever July record in 18 years here) but there were other significant sightings as the season of wanderers ramps up.
Common Loon- not rare but always a pleasure to hear as they fly over, moving from Lake Winnepocket to Walker Pond. This transit seems to increase in July. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker- two or three juveniles came into the yard. The first time in many weeks for this species. Yellow-throated Vireo- uncommon to rare here.Red-eyed Vireo- still singing in the woods plus a family of four came down to forage in the yard and were easily seen. Hermit Thrush- coming out of the woods to eat Blueberries.Ovenbird- while one was still singing back in the woods a wanderer posed nicely on a big rock in my yard. Common Yellowthroat- a first of season wanderer for the yard. Chipping Sparrow- adults are still feeding youngsters. House Finch- rare in my yard before this summer and now there are two families at the seed feeders daily. Purple Finch- also with two family groups and a wonderful chance to compare the two species.Rose-breasted Grosbeak- on a recent 4-mile birding walk here I tallied 40 species but zero RbGr. But one male is seen daily at my feeders.
Fruit eating (mostly Blueberries) species seen in my yard within the last few days: Gray Catbird, Robin, Hermit Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, Cedar Waxwing, Cardinal, and multiple Black-throated Blue Warblers.
Fun with birds!
Bob QuinnWebster, NH
"Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons and daughters of the earth." Chief Seattle
Date: 7/22/26 9:21 am From: Roger Stephenson <rstephenson...> Subject: [NHBirds] Possible black headed gull
Rye Harbor this morning- here are my notes
Non breeding plumage. Darkish brown bill; lacking any gonydeal angle rules out laughing gull. Gray mantle. Dark ear spot and smudgy above eye, seemed to cross over head. Chocolate brown legs when the sun shone; looked dark or black when cloudy. Clear retrices. No windows in dark primary tips. Single bird with peep, picking at gravel sand bar. Too large for Bonapartes….
Date: 7/22/26 5:44 am From: sallie barker <salliebarker...> Subject: [NHBirds] yellow billed cuckoo in Springfield
We've had a very nice show this morning on the edge of the woods for about 30 minutes. First in Yard and...A lifer! The chickadees were their curious selves, hopping all around the Yellow billed Cuckoo. Between his muted calls and the Hermit Thrush, it was a symphony - regularly interrupted by the Red Eyed Vireos incessant proclamations! Sallie Barker Springfield/New London line
Date: 7/21/26 5:38 am From: 'Fran Keenan' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Mockingbird Virtuoso in Derry
Lately, we have been treated to a talented mockingbird’s repertoire in our neighborhood. I have used Merlin to identify the species it imitates. Just this morning it covered the following:
Northern Cardinal
Song Sparrow
Carolina Wren
Tree Swallow
Tufted Titmouse
Eastern Phoebe
Northern Flicker
Bank Swallow (!) and
Bald Eagle
Two days ago, it included these:
Great Crested Flycatcher
Red-Winged Blackbird
Blue Jay
Pileated Woodpecker
I wonder how long it takes a mockingbird to learn another species’ song and what, if any, evolutionary advantage this behavior provides. Also, has anyone ever tagged a mockingbird to see its range and know where it is hearing what it imitates?
Date: 7/21/26 3:55 am From: Scott Lemire <scttlemire944...> Subject: Re: [NHBirds] Wood Thrushes in Wilton
Hi Gail,
There have been 2 or 3 singing at the Mason Road, Badger Farm Road
intersection for a couple weeks as well. I can often hear others scattered
along the length of Mason Road while biking towards Pratt Pond.
Also, tonight a Whip-Poor-Will in the usual spot…down Stephen’s Road. In
the spring and early summer we can often hear several Whips at once (since
about 2017ish), but they have quieted down over the last couple weeks, as
expected.
On Mon, Jul 20, 2026 at 9:07 PM Gail Coffey <gcoffeywriter...> wrote:
While on an early morning walk in my neighborhood Saturday, I heard a Phoebe singing. This is the first time this season I have heard one in this area. Sadly I did not hear him again yesterday or today. Susan Hunter, Bedford Sent from my iPhone
Since early July, I have been most fortunate to hear the melodic song of two to three Wood Thrushes on my property at dawn and dusk. Two on the east side and one on the west side. I leave my window open to hear them in the early morning and sit out at night to listen to the dusk songs. Tonight was another great performance. Much better than tv or the cyberworld any day :).
Date: 7/20/26 8:54 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, July 20, 2026,
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for July 20th, 2026.
There was an unconfirmed report of a BROWN PELICAN seen flying at Hampton
Beach on July 17th.
A CORY’S SHEARWATER and a SOOTY SHEARWATER were seen at Jeffreys Ledge on
July 13th.
A LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was seen at Sawyers Beach in Rye on July 18th.
A BONAPARTE’S GULL was seen at Moore Reservoir in Littleton on July 12th.
The BRIDLED TERN that had been seen at the Isles of Shoals during the past
several weeks was not reported from New Hampshire during the past week.
4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen flying over Wheeler Road in Hollis on July 18th.
2 SOLITARY SANDPIPERS were seen at the Linderhof Pond in Glen on July 12th.
A LEAST BITTERN was heard at World End Pond in Salem on July 12th.
2 juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS were seen at the Moore Reservoir dam
in Littleton on July 15th, and 1 juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was
seen at a pond along Riverfront Drive in Lincoln on the 16th.
2 SNOWY EGRETS were seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on July 16th.
A BLACK VULTURE was seen in Durham on July 16th, and 1 was seen in
Rochester on the 17th.
Nesting MISSISSIPPI KITES continued to be reported from Dover and Durham
during the past week.
A breeding colony of 12 PURPLE MARTINS continued to be seen in Lee during
the past week.
There were several reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS during the past week.
2 WILLOW FLYCATCHERS were seen at the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on July 15th.
2 HORNED LARKS were seen at Pease International Tradeport from Short Street
in Newington on July 17th.
A BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER was seen at Lake Umbagog in Errol on July 18th, and
1 was seen at Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown on the 16th.
RED CROSSBILLS were heard in Lempster during the past week.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 7/20/26 4:50 am From: Randy Langer <randylanger52...> Subject: [NHBirds] Re: Black billed cuckoo
Yes so sure enough, black-billed cuckoo. What I'm really excited about is that I have the Yellow-billed here just last week. Got a couple good shots of it on our peach tree he's been here for about 15-20 minutes now. Regards Randy
On Mon, Jul 20, 2026, 07:27 Randy Langer <randylanger52...> wrote:
> I have a black cuckoo in my maple tree credit calling this morning called > it in I'm going to try and get a good picture of it regards Randy Meredith > forgive the typo on the name I'm just excited to have it >
Date: 7/20/26 4:28 am From: Randy Langer <randylanger52...> Subject: [NHBirds] Black billed cuckoo
I have a black cuckoo in my maple tree credit calling this morning called it in I'm going to try and get a good picture of it regards Randy Meredith forgive the typo on the name I'm just excited to have it
Date: 7/18/26 9:40 am From: Jack Swatt <jswattbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] How does Merlin come up with this stuff
This morning I was kayaking on Lempster Long Pond to do the annual Loon Census and opened up the Merlin app to see if it could pick up things that I didn't hear. I was surprised to find my "Bird of the Day" was an Eared Grebe!!! I was hopeful since I missed that bird by two days back in 2021, but alas, no Eared Grebe was seen or heard today.
Date: 7/18/26 8:58 am From: Pam Hunt <biodiva63...> Subject: [NHBirds] More early migration
Greetings all,
On my weekly five-mile survey in the south end of Concord this morning I had a couple of signs of early dispersing songbirds. First was a juvenile Bobolink in a field where I do not think they bred, but the far bigger surprise was a singing Black-throated Green Warbler in residential shade trees near the Abbott-Downing elementary school. Today is roughly two months since the last time I saw this species during migration. Last weekend I had a Louisiana Waterthrush under similar circumstances, although the stream where it was could be breeding habitat now and then.
At the same time, several breeding species are getting quiet, including yellow warblers, Baltimore Orioles, and Wood Thrush. Even Red-eyed Vireo was represented by only a single individual this morning.
Date: 7/17/26 1:52 am From: Steve Hale <srhale20...> Subject: [NHBirds] Banded female kestrel
Yesterday, I observed (with a small group) and imaged a female American Kestrel w/ leg bands at the Gilmanton School in Gilmanton, NH. The school is across the street from the Gilmanton Year-Round Library. The bird was very accessible as she reliably perched on the powerlines. Two digiscoped images are posted with the eBird checklist - https://ebird.org/checklist/S365007071
I could not discern any band numbers, and not even really sure what colors the bands were. If anyone has any information or insights on the banding origin or history of this female please reply or direct message me.
Date: 7/13/26 6:59 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire, July 13, 2026.
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for July 13th, 2026.
A BRIDLED TERN returned to the Isles of Shoals on May 9th, after spending
the winter to the south. Since then, it has mainly been seen in the
vicinity of White and Seavey Islands and was last reported on July 11th.
Island access is limited to tern project staff and the best viewing
possibility is by boat out of Rye Harbor.
A BONAPARTE’S GULL was seen at Moore Reservoir in Littleton on July 12th.
A RED-THROATED LOON was seen at Seal Rocks in Rye on July 6th.
A pair of BLUE-WINGED TEAL was reported from the Pickering Ponds in
Rochester on July 11th.
6 COMMON EIDER were seen at Scammell Bridge on Route 4 in Dover on July 8th.
A LEAST BITTERN was heard along the Rockingham Rail Trail in Newfields, and
1 was heard at World End Pond in Salem, both on July 12th.
A SNOWY EGRET was seen at Adams Point WMA in Durham on July 8th.
There was an unconfirmed report of an AMERICAN COOT from Dunbarton on July 8
th.
A COMMON NIGHTHAWK was reported from 322 Ridge Road in Middleton on July 9th.
Several COMMON NIGHTHAWKS have been nesting in Concord and Ossipee during
the past month where they have been monitored by NH Audubon staff and
volunteers.
A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at Trudeau Road in Bethlehem on July 12th and
2 were seen at East Inlet in Pittsburg on the 9th and 11th.
A THICK-BILLED MURRE was seen from Creek Farm in Portsmouth on July 5th.
2 BLACK VULTURES were seen flying over Joe English Road in New Boston on
July 8th, and 1 was seen flying in Newmarket on the 12th.
Nesting MISSISSIPPI KITES continued to be reported from Dover and Durham
during the past week.
A MERLIN was seen again along Lake View Drive in Strafford on July 12th.
A pair of PURPLE MARTINS continues to be seen on Cedar Point Road in Durham.
There were several reports of YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOOS during the past week.
A WILLOW FLYCATCHER was seen at the Upper Coos Recreational Trail in
Colebrook on July 8th.
A PHILADELPHIA VIREO was seen at Scotts Bog Road in Pittsburg on July 10th.
RED CROSSBILLS were heard in Franconia and Lempster during the past week.
A FISH CROW continues in Holderness and was last reported on July 8th.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 7/12/26 6:03 pm From: Jack Swatt <jswattbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] Lempster Red Crossbills
The Red Crossbills have been persistent up in Lempster this year. I've been hearing them at Ashuelot Headwaters Forest many times throughout the spring and this afternoon had at least one flyover on Long Pond. Recordings always identify them to Type 12. Another place I have been persistently hearing them is at Fox Forest in Hillsborough while working in the chestnut orchard there (right next to the parking lot). I'm noticing a lot of green cones on the white pines in the area so hopefully they will stick around for a while.
I’m currently in the midst of a motorcycle ride around the state and a few hours ago I stopped on Trudeau Road in Bethlehem to take a short walk on the trails off the road there. I visited a small wetland along the path that I’ve visited in the past and was surprised to find a Solitary Sandpiper. It appeared to be a juvenile but I’m admittedly not great at aging shorebirds. Either way it seems to be an early fall migrant so, like it or not, fall migration is upon us.
Date: 7/11/26 6:47 am From: Alfred Maley <alfredmaley...> Subject: [NHBirds] Notes on a Barred Owl Interaction #1
This morning (Jul 11) I awoke late (6 AM) and found both Barred Owls
waiting expectantly in the crabapples by the deck. The male was perched
directly over the mini-ratla, the female on a branch 15 feet away. I
prepared (defrosted) a couple of ratlings (weaned rats the size of a large
mouse) while I ate my own breakfast of coffee and toast.
While doing that, suddenly Mrs. Owl flew in to be next to Mr. Owl on a
branch that was also over the mini-ratla. Mr. Owl, whom we shall call MAGA
(Males Against Gender Amity) proceeded to spread his wings in a threatening
manner and emit a loud chittering call that seemed to mean “Know Your Place
Woman”). The female, whom we shall call FAMA (Females Against Male
Aggressiveness) conceded defeat and retreated to her previous perch.
At this point I proceeded to place a ratling on the mini-ratla. To my
surprise MAGA did nothing, while FAMA flew in, grabbed the ratling and flew
20 feet away to begin eating it. MAGA seemed unperturbed.
The previous day MAGA had not shown up at all and had been heard calling
(WCFY) out in the hood. He presumably was after free-range prey (tastes
better?) and apparently was successful. Last night, same thing, so he was
likely not famished.
At this point I placed a second ratling on the mini-ratla and MAGA sat
there staring at it for a long time, but doing nothing. Finally after 5-10
minutes he dropped down, picked up the ratling and flew to a perch 15 feet
away. By this time FAMA had swallowed her ratling and proceeded to fly off
to the nearby forest, about 15 yards away. MAGA then took off with his
ratling for the forest as well, where perhaps they both have their
preferred, hidden eating perches. There are Cooper Hawks nearby that might
be problematic.
Not more than 15 minutes later, both owls were back to their respective
perches to begin the daily ritual of preening and dozing, where they remain
at present (9AM) and perhaps will remain for the entire day.
The Atlantic Flyway Technical Sections (game and non-game bird reps from state agencies along the entire Atlantic coast) are meeting in Nashua this September. In recent years there have been brief presentations by a local hunter and birder as part of the introductory session on the first day (here Sept 21). Because I'm actually associated with the Flyway I gave this talk the last time we met in NH, and this year I figured it'd be nice to diversify things a little. I'm thus wondering if there's anyone on this list who'd be interested in stepping up to the plate. This isn't a heavy lift - maybe a 20 minute presentation on your own experience birding/nature watching in the are (or whole state) and/or an overview that's less person in nature. Given the short appearance on stage, I'd not expect anyone to travel far to represent the NH birding community, but it'd be great if there was someone relatively local interested in giving it a shot!
I'd be happy to help out in any way or answer questions,
Pam
Pamela D. Hunt, Ph.D.
Senior Biologist for Avian Conservation
NH Audubon
603-224-9909 x328 (office)
Voicemail gets forwarded to email so please leave a message so I know you called and can get back to you.
How are NH's birds doing? Check out our "State of the Birds" report at:
https://stateofthebirds.nhaudubon.org/ ___
_/ -o-- \_____
\ / \''''',,,,,\__
\/////////'' _\======
This morning I saw an adult male scarlet tanager gleaning insects and caterpillars from a clump of milkweed plants on my farm in Sullivan. I've never seen this species feeding at ground level before. It was in the vicinity of a couple of eastern phoebes who were doing the same.
Date: 7/10/26 3:42 am From: Bill Duffy <dill.buffy...> Subject: [NHBirds] Re: FOS Yellow-billed Cuckoo
I heard my first Cuckoo yesterday morning on the Bradford Bog.
On Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 9:14:46 AM UTC-4 <raqb......> wrote:
> In typical timing my First of Season Yellow-billed Cuckoo was "Kow, Kow,
> Kowing" here in Webster.
>
> Quite a few fledglings including those of Purple Finches. The "seasons
> they are a-changing".
>
> Bob Quinn
> Webster, NH
>
> "Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons and daughters of the earth."
> Chief Seattle
>
Date: 7/9/26 6:14 am From: '<raqbirds...>' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] FOS Yellow-billed Cuckoo
In typical timing my First of Season Yellow-billed Cuckoo was "Kow, Kow, Kowing" here in Webster. Quite a few fledglings including those of Purple Finches. The "seasons they are a-changing". Bob QuinnWebster, NH "Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons and daughters of the earth." Chief Seattle
A Rose-breasted Grosbeak fledgling was complaining and being fed on a branch near my hopper sunflower seed bird feeder. Seemed like two males were participating. No female in sight. ~in Derry
Date: 7/7/26 4:31 am From: '<bikenbird...>' via NHBirds <nhbirds...> Subject: [NHBirds] REMINDER***Only 5 Slots Remaining*** REGISTRATION REQUIRED - NH Audubon Seacoast Chapter Wednesday July 8, 2026 7:30 PM Program - The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet***
New Hampshire Audubon Seacoast Chapter
Please note the following:
* Check the chapter website (http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs) for any changes that may impact the in person program.
* There will be refreshments from 7-7:30 pm. Feel free to bring in refreshments for others to enjoy at the program. Thank you! * Seating is limited and registration is required to attend the program.
Wednesday July 8, 2026 7:30 pm Program - The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet
At a time when the news for birds (for the planet!) has rarely seemed grimmer, there is reason for hope. Despite the odds today, all around the world people are actually reviving bird populations, providing a roadmap for wider recovery. In his newest book, The Return of the Oystercatcher, best-selling author and researcher Scott Weidensaul shows why creating a world that works for birds will work for everything, including us. He’ll trace this inspiring arc from a tiny island off the Maine coast to the bird-rich Danube Delta on the Ukrainian border, and vulture restoration in the mountains of Bulgaria to across the world’s largest and most intact forest in Canada where Indigenous communities are permanently protecting hundreds of millions of acres of some of the most important migratory bird habitat on Earth. This is a dose of optimism we all need. Seating is limited and registration is required to attend this program.
Bio: Scott Weidensaul is the author of nearly 30 books on natural history, including the Pulitzer Prize finalist Living on the Wind and his New York Times bestseller A World on the Wing. His latest book, Return of the Oystercatcher just released in April 2026, showcases what’s working for bird conservation around the world. Weidensaul is a contributing editor for Audubon magazine, a columnist for Bird Watcher’s Digest, and writes for a variety of other publications including the Cornell Ornithology Laboratory’s Living Bird publication. He is a Fellow of the American Ornithological Society and an active field researcher, studying Saw-whet Owl migration for 30 years, as well as winter hummingbirds in the East, bird migration in Alaska, and the winter movements of Snowy Owls through Project SNOWstorm, which he co-founded.
Seating is limited and registration is required to attend our Wednesday July 8, 2026 program at the Seacoast Science Center (wheelchair accessible), Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye NH (click here for Google maps, Seacoast Science Center) To register for the program click HERE! There will be refreshments starting at 7 pm. Meetings begin at 7:30 pm. Entrance doors will be locked at 7:45 pm. Cancellations will be announced on http://www.seacoastchapter.org/programs and this Google group.
Thank You! Dunkin’ of 14 Central Ave (exit 7 off of Rte 16), Dover, NH (603) 740-9649 donates hot coffee and more for our programs. When you visit the location mention a thank you!
Date: 7/6/26 9:07 am From: Mark Suomala <suomalamark...> Subject: [NHBirds] Rare Bird Alert, New Hampshire,July 6, 2026
This is New Hampshire Audubon's Rare Bird Alert for July 6th, 2026.
An ATLANTIC PUFFIN was seen at Star Island, one of the Isles of Shoals, on
July 4th.
A THICK-BILLED MURRE continued to be seen from Odiorne Point State Park in
Rye during the past week and was last reported on July 4th.
A CASPIAN TERN was seen at Long Island in Squam Lake in Belknap on July 3rd.
Nesting MISSISSIPPI KITES continued to be reported from Dover and Durham
during the past week.
A MERLIN was seen along Lake View Drive in Strafford on July 3rd.
4 PHILADELHIA VIREOS were seen and heard at Mollidgewock Road in Errol on
July 1st.
Several RED CROSSBILLS were heard at Ossipee Lake Road in Freedom on July 5
th.
An archive of rare bird alerts is available at nhaudubon.org/rba. If you
have seen any rare birds recently you can leave a voicemail at (603)
224-9909, following the prompts on how to report a rare bird. You can also
send your sightings via email to <birdsetc...> Please put “Rare
Bird” in the subject line and include the location of the sighting and your
phone number.
*What is the Rare Bird Alert?*
The New Hampshire Rare Bird Alert is a list of birds that is posted,
usually on a weekly basis on NH Audubon’s website, and several public
websites. The primary goal of the list is to help bird watchers find
uncommon or rare birds that occur within the geographical boundaries of NH.
*What makes a bird rare?*
A bird may be considered rare if it’s outside its usual range, present at
an unusual time of year, or found in an unexpected part of the state. For
example, a Red-bellied Woodpecker in southern NH is expected, but one in
Coos County would be unusual. A Black-throated Blue Warbler in summer is
normal but in winter it would be rare. While a Roseate Spoonbill would be
rare in any season. To learn more, read “So You Think You Found a Rare
Bird? A Quick Guide to What Counts and How to Report It”
<https://joyofbirding.nhaudubon.org/what-is-a-rare-bird-and-how-to-report-it/> on
the *Joy of Birding.*
Thanks very much and good birding!
Available NOW!
Birding Northern New Hampshire By Robert A. Quinn. Boreal birds and
dramatic vistas await you most any time of the year in New Hampshire’s
North Country. Follow birder and naturalist Robert A. Quinn’s detailed new
guide, *Birding in Northern New Hampshire* to the best birding in northern
Coos County. All proceeds go to NH Audubon. For more info and to order a
copy, check out this link:
Date: 7/5/26 7:58 am From: <jim...> <jim...> Subject: [NHBirds] Sapsuckers and Colorful Birds -- PHOTOS
SCARLET Tanager, INDIGO Bunting, RED-shouldered Hawk, YELLOW-bellied Sapsucker, Eastern BLUEbird, RUBY-throated Hummingbird, RED-eyed Vireo, American GOLDfinch, and even a BLACK Bear. All photos in my recent blog post are from our Etna, NH yard from June 9 to July 4 except the Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers at a nest hole in White River Junction, VT.
If you are interested you can find the photos here:
