Date: 7/13/26 8:25 pm From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Hummer: Allen's or Rufous ?
Hi birders,
This evening I saw a Selasphorus hummingbird on our feeder. At first I
thought it was an immature Allen's Hummingbird, which likely breed in my
neighborhood, although I've never been able to confirm. Initially I was
quite hopeful for a breeding confirmation. But after capturing some
images early this evening, through a tinted double pane window,
including a blurry partially spread tail shot, now I'm not so sure. Here
are 3 very large, cropped, but otherwise purposely unprocessed images:
If you have insight on whether this bird is a Rufous or Allen's
hummingbird and are willing to share, I'd be great to read.
Right now, based on the tail shot, I'm leaning towards a female/immature
type Rufous Hummingbird. Perhaps migrating south after the breeding
season further north. Seems early but... That beings said, in the second
shot 13c, we can just make out the hint of an orange "eyebrow", which is
mentioned for Allen's Hummingbird in my, ahem, "vintage" edition
(Copyright 2000), large Sibley Guide to Birds book.
Date: 7/13/26 12:35 pm From: Kyan Russell <kyansrussell...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Re: Heermann's Gull Fundraiser at Other Brother Beer Co. 07/10
Hello again,
We are midway through the Heermann's Gull fledging season and it seems that
many birds are successfully finding their wings. This year we have started
a monitoring program with volunteers watching for downed fledglings. We are
also banding chicks before returning them to the rooftops, as we are
interested in learning where these fledglings go after they leave downtown
Seaside. If you see any fledglings along the coast (banded or not) please
let me know the date and location! They can be identified from older birds
by their scaly, pale-edged feathers. Thanks!
Kai Russell
Monterey Audubon Society
On Wed, Jul 1, 2026 at 12:01 PM Kyan Russell <kyansrussell...> wrote:
> Hello all,
>
> I am writing on behalf of Monterey Audubon Society (MAS) to invite you to
> attend Pint Night at Other Brother Beer Co. in Seaside on July 10th. This
> event is to raise funds for our local Heermann's Gull Colony.
>
> Heermann's Gulls are a common species in Monterey Bay, and 95% of their
> population breeds in Baja California. However, a small colony was
> established on the rooftops of Seaside in the 90s, and they continue to
> hang on to this day despite facing many challenges. MAS leads the work to
> monitor and protect this urban seabird colony. You can learn more about
> their amazing story here <https://www.montereyaudubon.org/heeg>! >
> Please join us to show your support for this charismatic species, and for
> MAS!
> Each pint sold will earn us $1, so please plan to drink up and invite
> your friends! The more people invited, the more good we do! OBB also has
> food you can purchase, so plan to make a night of it!
>
> We will also be announcing the winners of our logo contest (view the
> entries and cast your vote on Instagram
> <https://www.instagram.com/montereyaudubon/>!)
>
> Help us pack the house:
> *When*: Friday, July 10 4 PM - 9 PM
> *Where*: Other Brother Beer - 877 Broadway Ave, Seaside
> *What*: Pint Night Fundraiser featuring tours of the rooftop colony!
> [image: monterey audubon society pint night 7.10.jpg]
>
> Cheers,
> Kai
>
Date: 7/13/26 9:18 am From: larry corridon <larry961357...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] When Evolution Painted Warblers Yellow | All About Birds
This article about hybridization in warblers and how their colors evolved is pretty interesting although it gets a bit technical at times for me. Some neat photos of hybrids too.
Shearwaters All heading west
Sent from my iPhone please excuse any spelling or typing errors.
Matthew
> On Jul 12, 2026, at 7:14 PM, Matthew Coale <matthewcoale02...> wrote:
>
> Shearwaters seen from the harbor up to Lighthouse point all the way beyond Blacks point, maybe a half mile out. Lots of birds !
> Matthew Coale
> Sent from my iPhone please excuse any spelling or typing errors.
> Matthew
Shearwaters seen from the harbor up to Lighthouse point all the way beyond Blacks point, maybe a half mile out. Lots of birds ! Matthew Coale Sent from my iPhone please excuse any spelling or typing errors. Matthew
For the last few days, I've been watching tens of thousands of SOOTY
SHEARWATERS, near New Brighton State Beach and Sea Cliff State Beach.
This evening, the line of Sooty Shearwaters stretched from the Cement
Ship all they way across the bay to the north west. It is just amazing
to see this huge flock of birds, and then understand that these animals
make one of the longest annual mass migrations known to scientists. I've
been seeing them in the evening, usually starting some time after 5pm,
and then until the light fades as the sun sets. The birds might be there
in the morning, but it's been pretty foggy. I would check in the evening
if you are interested in seeing them. Bring binocs and a scope if you can.
Curious to know more about this species? See the Sooty Shearwater
<https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Sooty_Shearwater> entry in All
About Birds from Cornell Lab. If nothing else, their migration story is
just incredible.
Today, we went to try and spy the fledgling. We did not see it, however
younger sibling was next to the nest, then hopping in and out, flapping
wings and finally caught enough air to make it to the large branch next to
the nest. It then hopped back. Repeat! I guess it won't be long until #2
bails out! We only saw one adult, who was in the next group of euchs. It
was around 4:00. Thanks for the tip Lisa! So very special!!
Cindy Scott
On Sunday, July 5, 2026 at 3:44:30 PM UTC-7 lisafaylarson wrote:
> The first bald eagle fledged at 3:29. Mom is watching closely.
>
> We got here just in time to see it fly! It's not very good at it.
>
> - Lisa
>
Wanted to follow up to this morning's email. Although there were no
rarities seen, it was still great to bird this area for a number of reasons.
First, what led me to bird here was the California Bird Atlas
<https://www.californiabirdatlas.org>. As some may have heard, there is
a project underway to create the first state wide, California Breeding
Bird Atlas. This effort is being done in conjunction with eBird, many CA
county record keepers, and numerous institutions.
Specifically, looking at the block maps yesterday, I noticed that two
blocks, (areas), in Santa Cruz county had NO data. The first block was
where I birded today. The second block with no data is near the north
end of Swanton Road, near Last Chance Road. (You can review and zoom in
on the block map
<https://cba-blockboard.share.connect.posit.cloud>yourself and see all
kinds of interesting info.)
To easily contribute your sightings to the CA Bird Atlas, use eBird, set
the breeding codes, and follow the instructions in either of these
YouTube videos; Moving an eBird checklist .. (Web)
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vg6neRbv_zw> or How to Add an Existing
eBird Checklist... (eBird Mobile App
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dG0BB_c_mDU>). Based on this morning,
one of the "empty" blocks, should now have at least one entry show up in
the next day or so. I'm going to bird the other "no data" block some
time next week.
Another reason to visit this area, is terrific overall birding. It has
tall grass pasture, with some oaks, exposed large rocks, and cliffs, all
ringed by oak woodlands and redwoods. I was there from about 8:15am
until about 11am. Originally, I intended to bird both "no data" blocks.
However, every time I thought to leave, I saw or heard something that
caught my attention. For a full list of birds seen or heard, see this
eBird list: https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S368175142
In the next few hours, I'll continue to refine the list, and perhaps add
some documentary photos.
One last note, the parking is limited. You pull off the road onto the
easement as best you can. There is private land on both sides. I parked
at roughly GPS coordinates: 37°08'33.1"N 122°11'35.2"W . Then I walked
up and down the road checking both sides for birds. This morning, it was
wonderful! The birds were plentiful, and there was almost no traffic
or human generated noise.
Fun birding, for a good cause,
Pete Solé
Soquel, CA
On 7/5/26 10:46 AM, 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds wrote:
> Hi birders,
>
> There was terrific birding up Empire Grade Rd west of Jamison Creek Road near the related eBird hotspot. It’s quieted down now a bit but
> Just a few highlights:
> Breeding Western Tanagers
> Western Bluebirds
> Singing Grasshopper Sparrows
> Ash-throated Flycatcher
> Lazuli Bunting singing on territory
> Singing Olive-sided flycatchers
> Western Wood-pewees
> … some 37 species in all
>
> More details to come later but a very fun morning.
>
> GPS coordinates: 37°08'34.1"N 122°11'29.1"W
>
> Pete Solé
> Sent from my iPhone
>
Date: 7/5/26 10:46 am From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Terrific Birding Empire Grade Rd
Hi birders,
There was terrific birding up Empire Grade Rd west of Jamison Creek Road near the related eBird hotspot. It’s quieted down now a bit but
Just a few highlights:
Breeding Western Tanagers
Western Bluebirds
Singing Grasshopper Sparrows
Ash-throated Flycatcher
Lazuli Bunting singing on territory
Singing Olive-sided flycatchers
Western Wood-pewees
… some 37 species in all
More details to come later but a very fun morning.
Date: 7/4/26 6:21 pm From: Clay Kempf <ltjaegerv4...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Fall Migration & a tern I.D. Challenge
The beginning of shorebird migration is underway, with a few southbound migrants starting to show up. An example is posted a click away from the mystery tern image linked below (along with a few June photos in the Sierras). Since July 1, late afternoon Greater Yellowleg numbers between Kirby Park and Strawberry Rd have varied from 6 to zero to 16 to zero to 14, with some plumage differences indicating that at least some of the birds were different individuals. One very early (or summering?) Lesser Yellowlegs was seen briefly, away from all the Greaters.
For those that love photo I.D. challenges, I'm sharing a very DISTANT tern photo for people's review and input if you so desire. There's no wrong answers on this one from my perspective, since I think it's pretty questionable to have a definitive right answer.
Date: 7/4/26 5:23 pm From: Lisa Larson <lisafaylarson...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Eaglets at Schwan Lake -update
Hi birders!
I'm just leaving Schwan Lake. One chick is still branching very close to
the nest and the other is still in the nest. I did see one parent fly by
for a welfare check. I'm pretty sure once the babies have their dinner they
won't be going anywhere.
For those of you who know me - yes I'm a worry wort about nests and chicks.
Happy 4th of July🦅🦅🦅🦅
- Lisa
On Sat, Jul 4, 2026, 5:19 PM Lisa Larson <lisafaylarson...> wrote:
> Hi Bruce,
>
> Schawn would be an excellent place to try for good eagle pictures. The
> light can be challenging because of our fog on again off again conditions.
> In the morning the eagles nest is backlit. In the afternoon you run the
> risk of fog but I'm there right now and it's sunny.
>
> I park here:
> https://maps.app.goo.gl/fP5qMzah7HBWZLkx6?g_st=a >
> There is a path right there that goes to a level path by the water on the
> west side of the lake. There is a dock to the left once you're down. It's
> open to the public. There are a number of vantage points along the walk.
> You can explore both sides of the dock area.
>
> There's a cormorant rookery to see as well. Many nests still have chicks.
>
> If you want to explore Schwan Lake Park, go past Simpkins Swim Center and
> park at the end. The park has two adjoining loops. You may see the eagles
> from the vantage points at the water on either loop.
>
> I don't know where you're coming from. If you need more details I'll get
> back to you.
>
> - Lisa
>
> On Sat, Jul 4, 2026, 5:04 PM Bruce Barrett <bbb818...> wrote:
>
>> Hi Lisa:
>>
>> I'm a long time bird photographer and do not have a good one of the adult
>> Bald Eagles!
>> Would Schwan Lake be a good place to attempt a photo of the adults??? If
>> yes, could you give me directions on how to get there and where on the lake
>> to set up for a photo ops???
>>
>> Thanks, Lisa: Bruce Barrett:
>>
>> On 07/04/2026 3:59 PM MDT Lisa Larson <lisafaylarson...> wrote:
>>
>>
>> Hello Birders,
>>
>> This morning after the gym, I went by Schwan Lake to check on the
>> eaglets. One was jumping around the rim of the nest, flapping it's wings.
>> Another was branching in the nest tree, closely guarded by a parent, I
>> believe the mother because of her size.
>>
>> As the Bald Eaglets immenently will gain their independence from the
>> nest, I fervently hope the celebrations of the day do not frighten the
>> birds into any harm.
>>
>> This has been the quietest 4th of July I have experienced in 33 years of
>> residing in Santa Cruz County. Perhaps folks are taking a possible $1000
>> fine seriously.
>>
>> As the majestic Bald Eagle is our national bird, it would be poetic for a
>> fledge to happen today. But I personally prefer safety for them over poetic
>> beauty.
>>
>> I hope you all are enjoying today, whether it be birding, gatherings with
>> family or friends, or feasting on barbeque.
>>
>> Stay safe and happy Independence Day to you and yours.
>>
>> - Lisa
>>
>> P.S. I apologize for the late post.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "mbbirds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAOr7VNOUUtUpQ80wc2m61mcgFaqYqRvphg8fR6tx%<3DXK9XMqqwg...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAOr7VNOUUtUpQ80wc2m61mcgFaqYqRvphg8fR6tx%<3DXK9XMqqwg...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer>.
>>
>>
>>
Date: 7/4/26 3:00 pm From: Lisa Larson <lisafaylarson...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Eaglets at Schwan Lake
Hello Birders,
This morning after the gym, I went by Schwan Lake to check on the eaglets. One was jumping around the rim of the nest, flapping it's wings. Another was branching in the nest tree, closely guarded by a parent, I believe the mother because of her size.
As the Bald Eaglets immenently will gain their independence from the nest, I fervently hope the celebrations of the day do not frighten the birds into any harm.
This has been the quietest 4th of July I have experienced in 33 years of residing in Santa Cruz County. Perhaps folks are taking a possible $1000 fine seriously.
As the majestic Bald Eagle is our national bird, it would be poetic for a fledge to happen today. But I personally prefer safety for them over poetic beauty.
I hope you all are enjoying today, whether it be birding, gatherings with family or friends, or feasting on barbeque.
Stay safe and happy Independence Day to you and yours.
Date: 7/1/26 12:02 pm From: Kyan Russell <kyansrussell...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Heermann's Gull Fundraiser at Other Brother Beer Co. 07/10
Hello all,
I am writing on behalf of Monterey Audubon Society (MAS) to invite you to attend Pint Night at Other Brother Beer Co. in Seaside on July 10th. This event is to raise funds for our local Heermann's Gull Colony.
Heermann's Gulls are a common species in Monterey Bay, and 95% of their population breeds in Baja California. However, a small colony was established on the rooftops of Seaside in the 90s, and they continue to hang on to this day despite facing many challenges. MAS leads the work to monitor and protect this urban seabird colony. You can learn more about their amazing story here <https://www.montereyaudubon.org/heeg>!
Please join us to show your support for this charismatic species, and for MAS! Each pint sold will earn us $1, so please plan to drink up and invite your friends! The more people invited, the more good we do! OBB also has food you can purchase, so plan to make a night of it!
Help us pack the house: *When*: Friday, July 10 4 PM - 9 PM *Where*: Other Brother Beer - 877 Broadway Ave, Seaside *What*: Pint Night Fundraiser featuring tours of the rooftop colony! [image: monterey audubon society pint night 7.10.jpg]
Date: 6/30/26 4:17 pm From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Sometimes... they pose (Olive-sided Flycatcher photo studies)
Hi birders,
Some birds are notoriously skulky, and hence difficult to photograph. In
contrast, some species, like the "tyrant" flycatchers (family
tyrannidae), will perch conspicuously and allow themselves to be
photographed.
The "Olive-sided Flycatcher" normally perches conspicuously at the top
of trees, loudly calling for beer. ("quick, THREE-BEERS!" is the sound
mnemonic to recognize this species' song.). Today, the neighborhood
Olive-sided Flycatcher was mostly silent. But it did pose on a nearby
wire, for some hurried eye level photo studies, from our home's second
floor. Click the links to see two of the better images:
Although mostly a monochromatic bird, for some unclear reason I find it
an interesting subject. Perhaps because it does not put up with any bs
from others. It establishes fairly large breeding territories, and
strongly defends it's nest from all comers including hawks, jays, and
more. However, like many species, it is somewhat in trouble. A number of
regional authorities list it as endangered, a sensitive species, or
species of concern.
Date: 6/30/26 10:45 am From: DEBRA SHEARWATER <debiluv...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] SBT County: FIRST RECORD OF CRESTED CARACARA
HI, Birders,
A CRESTED CARACARA was found and photographed by Wilma Vermilyer on Saturday, June 27, 2026 along Lone Tree Road. This represents the first record of Crested Caracara for San Benito County, CA.
It has not been seen since that day, although it could still be around. I believe it was found along the lower grasslands of Lone Tree Road.
Wishing all a Happy Fourth of July and good birding, Debi
DEBRA SHEARWATER Shearwater Journeys, Inc. PO Box 190 Hollister, CA 95024 831.637.8527 <debi...> www.shearwaterjourneys.com
Celebrating 44 Years of Seabirding with Shearwater Journeys
Date: 6/28/26 10:29 am From: larry corridon <larry961357...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] What Is the Essence of Iridescence? Ask a Hummingbird | Living Bird | All About Birds
This is a great article from Cornell lab about hummingbirds and their iridescence. I hope you enjoy it.
Date: 6/28/26 9:33 am From: Julia van der Wyk <juliavdw11...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Black bird with red legs ID help
Hello,
I was birding at Antonelli Pond with friends yesterday afternoon, and we saw a “duck-size” black bird with red legs flying low over the water. We’ve ruled out Black Oystercatcher, as I think their legs are not red. Feet poked out from tail and were firmly a saturated red color.
Could it have been a pigeon guillemot? I didn’t notice white markings on the wings, but it was flapping quickly and I didn’t get my binoculars up in time.
Date: 6/25/26 11:07 am From: Chris Soriano <soriano151...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] spaces available in World of Birds Camp at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Hi everyone, I run the summer camps at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural
History and I figured this would be a venue where I could tell people that
we have 3 spaces left in our World of Birds Camp
<https://santacruzmuseum.org/event/world-of-birds-summer-camp/> from July
27-31st for kids entering 3rd-4th grade. Please feel free to email me at
<camp...> if you know a kid that also loves birds and would
be interested in joining us. Reminder: this is ONLY for kids, despite it
being appealing to us kids of all ages 😆
Date: 6/23/26 1:58 pm From: Gary Martindale <garymartindale6621...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Gray Catbird at Swanton Road
I found a Gray Catbird at the Indigo Bunting Stakeout on Swanton Road. It popped up just long enough to get a good look and to snap a couple of confirmable photos. It was just past the Cal Poly farm near a bridge to the farmland.
In my yard in Scotts Valley I have had as many as 23 mourning doves, as well as 25 band-tailed pigeons at a time under my feeders and in the walnut trees above the feeders. This was during Feeder Watch, which runs from November through April - those numbers were from February. This time of year I still get quite a few BTPIs, but only up to about 6 MODOs at a time…
- Bethany Kilzer
Date: 6/22/26 9:25 pm From: Suzanne Kent <surreykent...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Mourning Dove Irruption
On Westside Santa Cruz, at the edge of Meder Canyon (also known as Arroyo Seco I think), my platform feeder often has a visiting flock of 20 Band-tailed pigeons - and at other times 1-2 Mourning Doves, rarely 3-4.
Date: 6/22/26 4:49 pm From: Lola Ross <lolabones...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Mourning Dove Irruption
I would try to confirm if they are perhaps seeing band-tailed pigeons? I’m
on the far Westside of SC near Natural Bridges, and have never seen that
many mourning doves together anywhere, but I have seen large groups of BTPs
up the coast in the Davenport area.
On Mon, Jun 22, 2026 at 4:40 PM Grey Hayes <17coastalprairie17...>
wrote:
> Hi folks,
>
> Anyone else seen an irruption of mourning doves? A neighbor in Newtown,
> Davenport is seeing 50-100 and they rarely saw any historically.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Grey Hayes
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<4562EB78-F348-453A-BBDD-FCE5BA3CEFA4...> > .
>
Date: 6/20/26 10:26 am From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Hey kid, get off my lawn!!! (photos)
Hi birders,
This morning we had a, ahem, /interaction/, between one of the recently
fledged juvenile Red-tailed Hawks and the local Acorn Woodpeckers. A
photo sequence that sort of tells the story (large photos):
A bit of background. The Acorn Woodpeckers have been living in that tree
stump for years. Recently, the juvi RT Hawk has decided that it makes a
good perch to beg from. Clearly, there is a difference of opinion about
that! Hence the Acorn Woodpeckers have been /incentivizing/ the RT juvi
hawk to, ah, move along.
On a vaguely related note, ebird list of seen or heard birds this morning:
Date: 6/18/26 10:15 am From: Shantanu Phukan <phukan...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Stick or snake (photos) ...
I am envious. I have to tell you about the trip I am planning in Mexico.
Shantanu
-----Original Message-----
From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...>
Sent: Jun 18, 2026 9:31 AM
To: MBB Monterey Bay Birds <mbbirds...>
Subject: [MBBIRDS] Stick or snake (photos) ...
Hi birders,
This morning we had a juvenile Red-tailed Hawk on a nearby roof top, "playing" with a stick:
So along with the incessant RT Hawk juvi begging for food calls, more evidence of the recent Red-tailed Hawk fledglings in our neighborhood.
And in other fledgling news, the Violette-green Swallows nested in one of our nest boxes again, Lesser Goldfinches, House Finches, Purple Finches, and Pygmy Nuthatches have been feeding young on our deck, while the California Quail continue to bring chicks to scratch for the seed below.
So along with the incessant RT Hawk juvi begging for food calls, more
evidence of the recent Red-tailed Hawk fledglings in our neighborhood.
And in other fledgling news, the Violette-green Swallows nested in one
of our nest boxes again, Lesser Goldfinches, House Finches, Purple
Finches, and Pygmy Nuthatches have been feeding young on our deck, while
the California Quail continue to bring chicks to scratch for the seed
below.
Date: 6/16/26 7:14 am From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Thanks again Alavaro!
Pete
On 6/16/26 5:28 AM, <chucao...> wrote:
>
> Pete et al.
>
> Old, but interesting read here from Cornell
>
> https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/can-birds-help-us-predict-el-nino-weather-patterns/ >
> In a quick search most of the research I could find was on seabirds.
> The landbird work was largely in the East, mainly it has been about
> shifts in food and survival (decreases in reproduction in
> Black-throated Blue Warblers for example). Or about shifts in
> wintering strategy due to warmer winters, mainly birds wintering north
> of usual range, or arriving earlier.
>
> Perhaps the classic paper to read is about the Bristle-thighed
> Curlew invasion of 1998. Free download:
>
> https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/western_birds/vol30/iss3/1/ >
> good birding
>
> Alvaro
>
> Alvaro Jaramillo
>
> <alvaro...> <mailto:<alvaro...> >
> www.alvarosadventures.com <http://www.alvarosadventures.com> >
> *From:*Pete Sole <pete...>
> *Sent:* Tuesday, June 16, 2026 12:01 AM
> *To:* <chucao...>; 'MBB Monterey Bay Birds'
> <mbbirds...>
> *Subject:* Re: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
>
> Thanks very much Alvaro!
>
> Very interesting, albeit sobering...
>
> Hum, back to birding, sounds like maybe I should plan on two pelagic
> birding trips this year as the season develops... 🙂
>
> Thanks again Alvaro!
>
> Pete
>
> On 6/15/26 8:16 PM, <chucao...> wrote:
>
> Pete
>
> The reality is that for land birds, there is very little that
> is known about the effects of warm or cold water phases of the
> ENSO. The effects on weather tend to show up later on in the year,
> mostly in winter. I think that any changes in prevailing winds may
> have an effect on land bird migrants, but offhand I don’t think
> much has been written about it.
>
> But for seabirds we know that warm water, particularly very
> warm water, is not good for the food base. Birds then disperse
> away from the areas of anomalous warm water, in this case the
> Galapagos, N Humboldt Current area, and sometimes into the Gulf of
> Panama and point farther north. Since it is water warmth that is
> the key, we have been having non ENSO related warm water episodes
> here for years, the “blob” or marine heat waves. So we have been
> seeing these effects on most years in the recent past. These
> “effects” are – more boobies, more southern murrelets, more Black
> Storm Petrels, presence of Least Storm-Petrels, more Buller’s
> Shearwaters, etc. We are already seeing some of these effects this
> year, early Black Storm-Petrels, early Scripps’s Murrelets,
> boobies are about. It seems that as this gets more extreme to the
> south, some species that are less common here, particularly
> Blue-footed Booby might make a showing, if the south gets warm
> enough, I would be on the lookout for offshore tropicbirds, and
> coastal frigatebirds. But this will depend on how warm it gets to
> our south, and how much food there is here. Marine mammals will
> also make moves northward.
>
> Come out and see is my suggestion. Here are our upcoming
> pelagic dates, including several from Monterey.
>
> https://www.alvarosadventures.com/pelagic-dates-2026.html >
> Look forward to seeing other brainstorming and predictions about
> the El Niño, particularly with respect to migration.
>
> Alvaro
>
> Alvaro Jaramillo
>
> <alvaro...> <mailto:<alvaro...> >
> www.alvarosadventures.com <http://www.alvarosadventures.com> >
> *From:* 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...>
> <mailto:<mbbirds...> > *Sent:* Monday, June 15, 2026 10:01 PM
> *To:* MBB Monterey Bay Birds <mbbirds...>
> <mailto:<mbbirds...> > *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
>
> Hi birders,
>
> As the evidence builds for a stronger than usual El Niño year,
> perhaps even developing into a "Super" El Niño 2026-2027 season, I
> wonder if some of the experts have any suggestions, or thoughts
> for local birding? Specifically I wonder if:
>
> * Will some of the bird species from southern warmer waters will
> be pushed up into our area in the Monterey Bay? (I'm thinking
> alcids, boobies, gulls, or others)
> * Will warmer temperature water actually develop in the Monterey
> Bay?
> * Will summer/fall bird migration patterns be impacted? If so, how?
> * Overall, are there any interesting species that we should be
> on the look out for as summer, fall, and winter advance?
>
> If possible, I'd like to keep the conversation around the
> interesting birds that may show up in our region, and strategies
> to see them, rather than delving into the larger view, very real
> potential downsides, that such weather patterns may bring. (Trying
> to think of this as an opportunity to see and appreciate unusual
> birds....)
>
> Your thoughts?
>
> Pete (already thinking about fall birding) Solé
>
> --
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>
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In a quick search most of the research I could find was on seabirds. The landbird work was largely in the East, mainly it has been about shifts in food and survival (decreases in reproduction in Black-throated Blue Warblers for example). Or about shifts in wintering strategy due to warmer winters, mainly birds wintering north of usual range, or arriving earlier.
Perhaps the classic paper to read is about the Bristle-thighed Curlew invasion of 1998. Free download:
From: Pete Sole <pete...>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 12:01 AM
To: <chucao...>; 'MBB Monterey Bay Birds' <mbbirds...>
Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Thanks very much Alvaro!
Very interesting, albeit sobering...
Hum, back to birding, sounds like maybe I should plan on two pelagic birding trips this year as the season develops... 🙂
The reality is that for land birds, there is very little that is known about the effects of warm or cold water phases of the ENSO. The effects on weather tend to show up later on in the year, mostly in winter. I think that any changes in prevailing winds may have an effect on land bird migrants, but offhand I don’t think much has been written about it.
But for seabirds we know that warm water, particularly very warm water, is not good for the food base. Birds then disperse away from the areas of anomalous warm water, in this case the Galapagos, N Humboldt Current area, and sometimes into the Gulf of Panama and point farther north. Since it is water warmth that is the key, we have been having non ENSO related warm water episodes here for years, the “blob” or marine heat waves. So we have been seeing these effects on most years in the recent past. These “effects” are – more boobies, more southern murrelets, more Black Storm Petrels, presence of Least Storm-Petrels, more Buller’s Shearwaters, etc. We are already seeing some of these effects this year, early Black Storm-Petrels, early Scripps’s Murrelets, boobies are about. It seems that as this gets more extreme to the south, some species that are less common here, particularly Blue-footed Booby might make a showing, if the south gets warm enough, I would be on the lookout for offshore tropicbirds, and coastal frigatebirds. But this will depend on how warm it gets to our south, and how much food there is here. Marine mammals will also make moves northward.
Come out and see is my suggestion. Here are our upcoming pelagic dates, including several from Monterey.
From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mailto:<mbbirds...> <mbbirds...>
Sent: Monday, June 15, 2026 10:01 PM
To: MBB Monterey Bay Birds <mailto:<mbbirds...> <mbbirds...>
Subject: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Hi birders,
As the evidence builds for a stronger than usual El Niño year, perhaps even developing into a "Super" El Niño 2026-2027 season, I wonder if some of the experts have any suggestions, or thoughts for local birding? Specifically I wonder if:
* Will some of the bird species from southern warmer waters will be pushed up into our area in the Monterey Bay? (I'm thinking alcids, boobies, gulls, or others)
* Will warmer temperature water actually develop in the Monterey Bay?
* Will summer/fall bird migration patterns be impacted? If so, how?
* Overall, are there any interesting species that we should be on the look out for as summer, fall, and winter advance?
If possible, I'd like to keep the conversation around the interesting birds that may show up in our region, and strategies to see them, rather than delving into the larger view, very real potential downsides, that such weather patterns may bring. (Trying to think of this as an opportunity to see and appreciate unusual birds....)
Date: 6/15/26 9:01 pm From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Thanks very much Alvaro!
Very interesting, albeit sobering...
Hum, back to birding, sounds like maybe I should plan on two pelagic
birding trips this year as the season develops... 🙂
Thanks again Alvaro!
Pete
On 6/15/26 8:16 PM, <chucao...> wrote:
>
> Pete
>
> The reality is that for land birds, there is very little that is
> known about the effects of warm or cold water phases of the ENSO. The
> effects on weather tend to show up later on in the year, mostly in
> winter. I think that any changes in prevailing winds may have an
> effect on land bird migrants, but offhand I don’t think much has been
> written about it.
>
> But for seabirds we know that warm water, particularly very warm
> water, is not good for the food base. Birds then disperse away from
> the areas of anomalous warm water, in this case the Galapagos, N
> Humboldt Current area, and sometimes into the Gulf of Panama and point
> farther north. Since it is water warmth that is the key, we have been
> having non ENSO related warm water episodes here for years, the “blob”
> or marine heat waves. So we have been seeing these effects on most
> years in the recent past. These “effects” are – more boobies, more
> southern murrelets, more Black Storm Petrels, presence of Least
> Storm-Petrels, more Buller’s Shearwaters, etc. We are already seeing
> some of these effects this year, early Black Storm-Petrels, early
> Scripps’s Murrelets, boobies are about. It seems that as this gets
> more extreme to the south, some species that are less common here,
> particularly Blue-footed Booby might make a showing, if the south gets
> warm enough, I would be on the lookout for offshore tropicbirds, and
> coastal frigatebirds. But this will depend on how warm it gets to our
> south, and how much food there is here. Marine mammals will also make
> moves northward.
>
> Come out and see is my suggestion. Here are our upcoming pelagic
> dates, including several from Monterey.
>
> https://www.alvarosadventures.com/pelagic-dates-2026.html >
> Look forward to seeing other brainstorming and predictions about the
> El Niño, particularly with respect to migration.
>
> Alvaro
>
> Alvaro Jaramillo
>
> <alvaro...> <mailto:<alvaro...> >
> www.alvarosadventures.com <http://www.alvarosadventures.com> >
> *From:*'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...>
> *Sent:* Monday, June 15, 2026 10:01 PM
> *To:* MBB Monterey Bay Birds <mbbirds...>
> *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
>
> Hi birders,
>
> As the evidence builds for a stronger than usual El Niño year, perhaps
> even developing into a "Super" El Niño 2026-2027 season, I wonder if
> some of the experts have any suggestions, or thoughts for local
> birding? Specifically I wonder if:
>
> * Will some of the bird species from southern warmer waters will be
> pushed up into our area in the Monterey Bay? (I'm thinking alcids,
> boobies, gulls, or others)
> * Will warmer temperature water actually develop in the Monterey Bay?
> * Will summer/fall bird migration patterns be impacted? If so, how?
> * Overall, are there any interesting species that we should be on
> the look out for as summer, fall, and winter advance?
>
> If possible, I'd like to keep the conversation around the interesting
> birds that may show up in our region, and strategies to see them,
> rather than delving into the larger view, very real potential
> downsides, that such weather patterns may bring. (Trying to think of
> this as an opportunity to see and appreciate unusual birds....)
>
> Your thoughts?
>
> Pete (already thinking about fall birding) Solé
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
> Groups "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send
> an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<7e1db791-9962-4fe1-a06a-a644b448268f...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<7e1db791-9962-4fe1-a06a-a644b448268f...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer>.
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
> Groups "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send
> an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/00ef01dcfd3e%24800d57b0%2480280710%<24...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/00ef01dcfd3e%24800d57b0%2480280710%<24...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer>.
Date: 6/15/26 8:16 pm From: <chucao...> Subject: RE: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Pete
The reality is that for land birds, there is very little that is known about the effects of warm or cold water phases of the ENSO. The effects on weather tend to show up later on in the year, mostly in winter. I think that any changes in prevailing winds may have an effect on land bird migrants, but offhand I don’t think much has been written about it.
But for seabirds we know that warm water, particularly very warm water, is not good for the food base. Birds then disperse away from the areas of anomalous warm water, in this case the Galapagos, N Humboldt Current area, and sometimes into the Gulf of Panama and point farther north. Since it is water warmth that is the key, we have been having non ENSO related warm water episodes here for years, the “blob” or marine heat waves. So we have been seeing these effects on most years in the recent past. These “effects” are – more boobies, more southern murrelets, more Black Storm Petrels, presence of Least Storm-Petrels, more Buller’s Shearwaters, etc. We are already seeing some of these effects this year, early Black Storm-Petrels, early Scripps’s Murrelets, boobies are about. It seems that as this gets more extreme to the south, some species that are less common here, particularly Blue-footed Booby might make a showing, if the south gets warm enough, I would be on the lookout for offshore tropicbirds, and coastal frigatebirds. But this will depend on how warm it gets to our south, and how much food there is here. Marine mammals will also make moves northward.
Come out and see is my suggestion. Here are our upcoming pelagic dates, including several from Monterey.
From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...>
Sent: Monday, June 15, 2026 10:01 PM
To: MBB Monterey Bay Birds <mbbirds...>
Subject: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Hi birders,
As the evidence builds for a stronger than usual El Niño year, perhaps even developing into a "Super" El Niño 2026-2027 season, I wonder if some of the experts have any suggestions, or thoughts for local birding? Specifically I wonder if:
* Will some of the bird species from southern warmer waters will be pushed up into our area in the Monterey Bay? (I'm thinking alcids, boobies, gulls, or others)
* Will warmer temperature water actually develop in the Monterey Bay?
* Will summer/fall bird migration patterns be impacted? If so, how?
* Overall, are there any interesting species that we should be on the look out for as summer, fall, and winter advance?
If possible, I'd like to keep the conversation around the interesting birds that may show up in our region, and strategies to see them, rather than delving into the larger view, very real potential downsides, that such weather patterns may bring. (Trying to think of this as an opportunity to see and appreciate unusual birds....)
Date: 6/15/26 7:01 pm From: 'Pete Sole' via mbbirds <mbbirds...> Subject: [MBBIRDS] Strong? El Niño and local birding? ...
Hi birders,
As the evidence builds for a stronger than usual El Niño year, perhaps
even developing into a "Super" El Niño 2026-2027 season, I wonder if
some of the experts have any suggestions, or thoughts for local birding?
Specifically I wonder if:
* Will some of the bird species from southern warmer waters will be
pushed up into our area in the Monterey Bay? (I'm thinking alcids,
boobies, gulls, or others)
* Will warmer temperature water actually develop in the Monterey Bay?
* Will summer/fall bird migration patterns be impacted? If so, how?
* Overall, are there any interesting species that we should be on the
look out for as summer, fall, and winter advance?
If possible, I'd like to keep the conversation around the interesting
birds that may show up in our region, and strategies to see them, rather
than delving into the larger view, very real potential downsides, that
such weather patterns may bring. (Trying to think of this as an
opportunity to see and appreciate unusual birds....)
