Date: 3/5/25 11:41 am From: Patty McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Mystery Grebe (Western or Clark's?)
Well, another rarity was photographed on Sunday by Roger Massey from Bufflehead Bay on Lake Maumelle. He reported it with photos as a Western Grebe, which altho rare is certainly less rare than a Clark's Grebe. On Monday, Kenny and LaDonna Nichols looked for it and found a large Aechmophorus grebe that appeared paler across the backside with a bright orange-yellow bill, which would suggest a Clark's Grebe. So the Arkansas Bird Records Committee is reviewing several photographs, and Michael and I are attempting to get more. It will be critical to confirm this with documentary photographs because if it turns out to be a Clark's Grebe, it will be the official first state record. Why so confusing? Well, initially these two were considered separate species and then became lumped for an extended period of time when the Clark's was considered a lighter morph of the Western. In 1985, they were again separated into two distinct species with the additional challenge of hybridization. Thus the need for careful study and review. While at Bufflehead Bay this morning, we also relocated the Pacific Loon and added an immature Red-throated Loon and a near-breeding plumaged Red-necked Grebe. There were also several Horned Grebe showing their golden horns. We plan to go back this afternoon and try for documentary photos. Info on Bufflehead Bay. https://birdinghotspots.org/hotspot/L796628Patty McLean and Michael Linz The Roadrunners
