Date: 4/6/25 7:41 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--06 Apr 2025
Hi, birders,
This morning thirteen pairs of eyes from AZ, MN, and WI were delighted to
discover water being pumped into the northwest impoundment, the closet
basin to the EOP overlook platform. It won't be long before it will host
waterbirds. This morning a Great Blue Heron and some ducks were already
busily foraging there. Balancing the filling of this impoundment, we noted
that three other, cattail-filled, impoundments are being drained, so lots
of changes in where some species will be found in the coming weeks. Our
morning total was 88 species, spanning the list from winter ducks to spring
warblers.
Topping the list was the continued presence of a Greater White-fronted
Goose, first spotted last week.The usual range of 15 species of ducks,
including both the female Greater Scaup and female Hooded were found,
thanks to those fellows who lugged their spotting scopes all around the
dikes. Long-legged waders were represented by a dozen White-faced Ibis, two
immature Black-crowned Night-Herons, a Great Egret and 5 Great Blue Herons.
Shorebirds were the same as last week, with a single Long-billed Curlew
topping the list.
Raptors were active, with a single fast-moving Merlin, a perched Peregrine
Falcon, and four Am. Kestrels. Also on the wing were Sharp-shinned and
Cooper's Hawks, Swainson's Hawk, Red-tailed Hawks, and Turkey Vultures.
There were the usual five species of swallows all around us most of the
morning. The Loggerhead Shrike count of four birds was double that of last
week, and five species of wren added diversity to the group list.
Sparrow numbers are falling, although 85+ White-crowned Sparrows was more
indicative of this species moving through and going north. Again, the
number five came into play with the warblers, with Lucy's, Com.
Yellowthroat, Yellow, and Wilson's Warblers, with 25+ Yellow-rumped
Warblers being the most numerous species.
Bird walks behind the locked gates of the Sierra Vista EOP occur every
Sunday morning. For the spring months (March-May) walks start promptly at *7:00
a.m.* Arrive early at the EOP Bird Viewing Platform to sign in with the
guide--group size is limited to fifteen. Late arrivals will not have access
behind the locked gates. Scopes are useful. Bring a hat and water--there is
no shade nor any amenities on the walk route. There is a chem toilet in the
parking area.
The EOP is located just east (~ 3 miles) of Sierra Vista on AZ Hwy 90. Look
for the Brua Animal Care Center and the Wildlife Viewing signs on the north
side of Hwy 90. Turn left (north) and proceed to the bird viewing platform.
Note that Google Maps may direct you to the wrong entrance.
