Date: 4/13/25 7:21 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--13 April 2025
Hi, birders,
A visitor from MT joined a dozen locals walking the Sierra Vista EOP dikes
this morning. Migration season was fully in evidence, with declines in
waterfowl and most sparrows, but increases in shorebirds and warblers. The
final tally was 93 species, the longest list of the year so far.
Highlights ranged from an early Vaux's Swift to the first Solitary
Sandpiper of the spring, and the continued presence of a Greater
White-fronted Goose. In addition to the goose, there were 12 species of
duck, including Lesser Scaup and Bufflehead. Four species of long-legged
waders were about, with small, restless groups of White-faced Ibis taking
flight, circling, and settling down again. At one point there were 40 of
these gangly birds in the air at once.
Shorebird diversity and numbers were up, with Black-necked Stilt (2),
Solitary Sandpiper (1), and Lesser Yellowlegs (2) joining the expected
Killdeer (12), Long-billed Dowitcher (7), Wilson's Snipe (2), Least
Sandpiper (20), and Western Sandpiper (15). Most of the latter were
sporting rich rufous on their backs and shoulders, ready to compete for
mates on their breeding grounds.
Lots of warblers, with Yellow-rumped Warblers by far the most common, but
also present were Orange-crowned Warblers, Lucy's Warbler, Common
Yellowthroats, Yellow Warblers, Black-throated Gray Warblers and Wilson's
Warblers.
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.
Cheers, Erika Wilson
--
Erika Wilson, Sierra Vista, AZ
