Date: 9/14/25 5:56 pm From: Erika Wilson (via aznmbirds Mailing List) <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--14 Sep 2025
Hi, birders,
Nine people, mostly locals, and a visitor from CA, walked the Sierra Vista
EOP dikes this morning, finding 68 species. A quiet, early fall day, with
not much evidence of migration, so it was pleasing to have a flock of 13
boldly marked American Avocets wheel overhead. Alas, they didn't settle on
any of the impoundments, instead they headed south.
The immature Neotropic Cormorant was back again, flying in loose circuits.
A single White-faced Ibis was likewise seen alternately flying or foraging
in its favored impoundment. Duck numbers were similar to last week, with
singles of Am. Wigeon and N. Shoveler providing variety. Up to 8 Sora were
calling--we had good looks at one. Both Com. Gallinules that were spotted
were immature birds in dull gray plumage. A few stripe-headed Pied-billed
Grebes indicated a successful breeding season at the EOP.
A huge flock of several hundred Barn Swallows perched in the dry cattails,
but soon took to the air. An immature Purple Martin flew through, and there
were smaller numbers of Bank, Tree, and Cliff Swallows. A Bullock's Oriole
and 4 Western Tanagers were another sign of minimal migration action.
Winter sparrows are just beginning to arrive.,
Bird walks behind the locked gates of the Sierra Vista EOP occur every
Sunday morning. For the autumn months (September-November) 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.
