Date: 1/6/26 7:58 pm From: Rick Herder via groups.io <rick.herder...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Quick summary of the 2025 Calero-Morgan Hill CBC
Saturday, December 27 began with light rain but cleared around 10am, making a cool but pleasant count day. A record number of counters (103) recorded 148 species, the highest number of species in 9 years. However, numbers of birds were below average for most species. Exceptions were Golden Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, and Common Raven, whose numbers are all trending up. Santa Clara’s south valley showed that it is a fine spot for viewing eagles. On count day a probable 7 Bald Eagles were seen in 5 different sectors, and up to 27 Golden Eagles in 8 sectors (still being reviewed).
The most surprising rare bird of the day was a Cassin’s Kingbird in Coyote Valley, although that species seems to be moving northward. Also in Coyote Valley were Greater White-fronted, Ross’s, and Cackling Goose. Forty-nine Tree Swallows were counted, and single Violet-green and Barn Swallows. A Townsend’s Solitare was found on the slopes of Mt. Umunhum, and both Grasshopper and Chipping Sparrows made return appearances.
Our 14 sector leaders did a great job of organizing coverage of their areas, especially with so many new birders, and we received enthusiastic comments from volunteers. Coyote Valley clearly has become locally famous, many newcomers specifically asked to count in Coyote Valley.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
