I've created a hotspot that I encourage people to use for the continuing Vermillion Flycatcher:
Bayview District - former Alice Griffith Housing Project - Vermillion Flycatcher stakeout 2026 (Please do not enter fenced off area, bird from perimeter) for those who observe the bird in this location as opposed to the Candlestick lot behind the nursery.
Date: 1/8/26 12:06 pm From: Adam Winer via groups.io <awiner...> Subject: [SFBirds] Vermilion Flycatcher is now "easy"
This has been noted in a variety of forums and forms, but for those who have overlooked it: the Vermilion Flycatcher found by Kevin Liberg at the Candlestick "back lot" - https://ebird.org/hotspot/L1060089 - appears to now be relatively easy to chase. We just didn't know where to look.
In previous appearances, it's been reported moving rapidly around the coyote bush in the field north of Carroll, then (frustratingly) disappearing. One wouldn't think a bright red bird that likes to perch atop poles and bushes would be hard to relocate, and yet that's what it's been doing.
Tuesday morning, I arrived at the site a little before 11am and - as anticipated - was told by Nico Stuurman I'd just missed the bird. *But *this time Nico had noticed that the flycatcher had seemingly departed to the southwest! Armed with that info (thank you Nico!), and after some exploration, I was able to find the flycatcher foraging in the former Alice Griffith housing project site. This site is entirely fenced in, and is not open to the public, but if you climb to the top of the slope on the south side of Carroll Ave, west of its intersection with Giants Drive (roughly around 37.720452, -122.385613), you can look through the fence and (with some patience) see the flycatcher. Please mind your footing!
With continued sightings at various hours of the day on the two days since, I strongly suspect that the bird, first reported on October 9 in 2025, has in fact spent the entire winter in this spot. It's even possible that this is the same bird as the one-day wonder from December 2, 2024, and it's spent two winters here. The site looks like an interesting one for rarities, at least until its future development.
Date: 1/7/26 1:41 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] News Items
The Vermillion Flycatcher found yet again by Kevin yesterday continued this morning, viewed in the defunct Griffith housing project from outside of the fence above Carroll. The blasting red male was living up to both segments of its name before sunrise, and Security took no offense at my position. Over on the mudflats, the Common Ringed Plover was briefly visible on the north shore, discernible from directly adjacent Semipalmateds by its observably larger size and orange legs that may have matched the flycatcher for color intensity. At Lasalle and Earl, the gates were open and workers were running some loud machinery in the Rufous-crowned area. I viewed the site from the public sidewalk at the intersection but did not see the sparrow. And finally for now, the Palm Warbler is still frequenting the red flowering tree at Potomac and Waller, near Duboce Park. Brian Fitch
Date: 1/7/26 1:13 pm From: Erick Masias via groups.io <erickjmasias...> Subject: [SFBirds] Dolores Park Red-Tailed pair and friends
Hi all,
I came to SF birds to ask a question that was quickly answered by Dom‘s recent post. I saw my favorite red-tailed pair starting to nest build this week and I thought it might be a bit early for that. I was going to ask if that was typical, but according to the breeding atlas seems like now is just about right!
I now post asking for a little bit of help — I know one of the birds has a right leg band. I don’t have a camera, I’ve only been digibinning and digiscoping since I moved to SF. Haven’t been able to get close enough to read the band and would love to know where it’s from. I know Dolores isn’t exactly “birdy” but if you ever find yourself in the neighborhood and are able to spot the bird and get good views/pics of the band please let me know! Dropping my contact info below.
In other Dolores breeding news, the Anna’s are starting to do their courtship display dives. I’m so glad eBird is allowing anyone to upload videos now. I caught what I think is my favorite ever digibin moment of a gorget flashing different colors: https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/648314453
SE basilica turret nest:
Thanks all, hope to meet you all in the field at some point.
-Erick Masias
San Francisco
email: <erickjmasias...>
instagram: @erick.spreads.birdjoy
Date: 1/6/26 10:10 pm From: Derek via groups.io <dlheins...> Subject: [SFBirds] Preliminary results from Saturday's Richmond CBC (FYI, same as reported on EBB)
As some of you may recall, Saturday was a very wet day, the second in a row for our fledgling five-year old Richmond CBC circle. But in defiance of the weather forecast, a record 201 enthusiastic birders participated, including a group of local Girl Scouts. Over half of our birders were new participants to the Richmond CBC and we hope they keep joining us for future counts!
As preliminary result, we have logged 178 species,which is above our count average, but noteworthy given the most challenging conditions we've faced to date:
Regarding the birds we saw on Saturday:
- We had 7 new species bringing our count day life list to 204: Long-tailed Duck and Red-necked Grebe at Point Molate, Violet-green Swallow north of San Pablo Reservoir, Northern Rough-winged Swallow at Dotson Marsh, Vega Gull at Landfill Loop, Tennessee Warbler and Summer Tanager continuing at Booker T Anderson Park. Noah Arthur ID'd the Vega Gull, the third ever recorded in Contra Costa County (he had one at Miller/Knox in 2013).
- Some other notable sightings were our only Ring-necked Pheasant, Caspian Tern and Short-eared Owl at Mare Island; a Snowy Plover at Point Pinole; 67 Black Skimmers at Meeker Slough; a Black Rail at Landfill Loop; a Rock Wren at Point Molate; a Pacific Loon at Richmond Marina. Our boat only made it out to Brooks Island before returning to port due to the blustering weather, but they did spot a Heermann's Gull among all the Brown Pelicans.
- Looks like we're down to one Black Scoter at Richmond Marina; Bob Lewis noted that it seems to be mournfully whistling more than usual.
- Every year has its missing species and this year was no exception. One would think all the recent rains would enhance habitats for waterfowl, but some of our biggest misses were Cackling Goose, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal and Cinnamon Teal. We also did not see Burrowing Owl or Pine Siskin, but siskins haven't been seen in the East Bay this winter.
- I would say the most noteworthy count was of Band-tailed Pigeons, but that might be a theme across our local CBC's. Forest Chapman's group hiking Crockett Hills Regional Park logged 938, the highest count in eBird history for a single checklist in Contra Costa County. We totaled around 2,200 for the day.
- Trends are a little difficult to interpret based on five years of the count with inconsistent weather and tides, so not much to report here. It should be noted that Bushtits, which won last year's award for consistent counts, must love to dance in the rain as the 784 counted were 30% above normal. The 1,504 crown sparrows were about 40% less than normal, with towhees also down by roughly the same proportion. American Robins were in abundance with 1,919 being almost triple our previous average.
In addition to all the great birds we found on Saturday, birders have also seen a few more count week species (Wednesday Dec 31 through today, January 6): Cackling Goose, Short-billed Dowitcher, Common Murre, Lesser Black-backed Gull, American Redstart and Rose-breasted Grosbeak.
This year's count day really demonstrated the resilience of our birding community. We didn't let the weather dampen our spirits as we supported this important international community science project. Golden Gate Bird Alliance initiated this count circle to bring attention to birds in Richmond and the local communities, and we hope to strengthen this bond in the years to come by encouraging communities in the count circle to celebrate our collective love for birds and the habitats we share.
Thank you everyone for your support in this year's count, and we can't wait to see you all again next year!
Derek Heins and BreeAnn Crofts Richmond CBC compilers <richmondcbc...>
Date: 1/6/26 4:56 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Miscellaneous Sightings around SF
Started the morning at Pier 94 and Heron's Head with an unsuccessful search for the Harlequin Duck, but there was a skittish female CANVASBACK in the Hansen pond at Pier 94 that took off as soon as I tried to get closer to take a photo through the chain link fence. A number of both male and female RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS were also at Pier 94, and the males were singing loudly. At Heron's Head a PELAGIC CORMORANT was already starting to turn into alternate plumage. Moving on to Lake Merced, there were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE swimming west of the wooden bridge, and a TOWNSEND'S x HERMIT WARBLER was at the north end of the bridge.
Date: 1/6/26 3:17 pm From: Michelle Muir via groups.io <mbmuir...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Breeding Bird Atlas, some misc. observations
Hi Dominik,
Thank you for this. If you are up for questions, I have a quick one. I just tried this out in my yard. When submitting, I tried to use my usual location titled “home”. I received an error message indicating that location was already in use. Are we to create new locations for the 5 years in which we are tied to the Cal Breeding Atlas? If so, that would be a disappointment as I like to keep an ongoing list of my home birds. Would this be the case with all locations? For example, I bird Rodeo Lagoon, which is a hotspot, frequently. Will I need to set up a second Rodeo Lagoon location just to submit checklists tied to the Cal Breeding Atlas?
Thanks,
Michelle
From: <SFBirds...> <SFBirds...> On Behalf Of Dominik Mosur via groups.io
Sent: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 1:42 PM
To: SF Birds <sfbirds...>
Subject: [SFBirds] Breeding Bird Atlas, some misc. observations
Happy New Year SFBirders,
Just reposting some information on the Statewide Breeding Bird Atlas effort is now underway via the eBird platform. If you are interested in participating (and I hope many of you are) please check the following links for pertinent information and don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions -
Some early confirmations I've noted in the first few days of 2026:
Pied-billed Grebe - adult with dependant/begging 1/2 size juvenile on Laguna Honda Reservoir 1/2
Red-shouldered Hawks - copulation pair on Corona Hill 1/6
This morning (1/6) while walking into work I was able to relocate a minimum of (3) SWINHOE'S WHITE-EYES along Waller Street , in the flowering pink Eucalyptus on the NW corner with the intersection of Cole Street. Last January I happened upon multiple individuals of this species a bit further East on Waller (near Clayton), confirmed their continued presence and apparent increase in numbers through early Summer. While the observations dropped off in the fall and early winter (and the birds were not looked for during the CBC) the evidence is strong that we have a locally breeding population. For anyone who lives in or passes through this part of SF please keep an eye (and ear) out for White-eyes and document any breeding behavior.
A couple of additional fun sightings from today:
BALD EAGLE - adult flying over Corona Hill just before 1 p.m.
White-throated Sparrow - adult white stripe with Golden-crowns, at the Arboretum fence across from the road leading to the Band Shell/Music Concourse
WESTERN TANAGER - a recently arrived (or perhaps overlooked) wintering individual loosely associated with a flock of American Robins on Corona Hill.
Date: 1/6/26 1:41 pm From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] Breeding Bird Atlas, some misc. observations
Happy New Year SFBirders,
Just reposting some information on the Statewide Breeding Bird Atlas effort is now underway via the eBird platform. If you are interested in participating (and I hope many of you are) please check the following links for pertinent information and don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions -
Some early confirmations I've noted in the first few days of 2026:
Pied-billed Grebe - adult with dependant/begging 1/2 size juvenile on Laguna Honda Reservoir 1/2
Red-shouldered Hawks - copulation pair on Corona Hill 1/6
This morning (1/6) while walking into work I was able to relocate a minimum of (3) SWINHOE'S WHITE-EYES along Waller Street , in the flowering pink Eucalyptus on the NW corner with the intersection of Cole Street. Last January I happened upon multiple individuals of this species a bit further East on Waller (near Clayton), confirmed their continued presence and apparent increase in numbers through early Summer. While the observations dropped off in the fall and early winter (and the birds were not looked for during the CBC) the evidence is strong that we have a locally breeding population. For anyone who lives in or passes through this part of SF please keep an eye (and ear) out for White-eyes and document any breeding behavior.
A couple of additional fun sightings from today:
BALD EAGLE - adult flying over Corona Hill just before 1 p.m.
White-throated Sparrow - adult white stripe with Golden-crowns, at the Arboretum fence across from the road leading to the Band Shell/Music Concourse
WESTERN TANAGER - a recently arrived (or perhaps overlooked) wintering individual loosely associated with a flock of American Robins on Corona Hill.
Date: 1/5/26 4:56 pm From: San Mateo County Bird Alliance via groups.io <office...> Subject: [SFBirds] Thurs. Jan. 8 Zoom w/ Peter Cavanagh
*Happy New Year!*
*Please join us on Thurs. Jan. 8 at 7:00 pm on Zoom.*
*How Birds Fly: The Science and Art of Avian Flight with Peter Cavanagh*
Peter Cavanagh is a scientist, author, and bird photographer who lives in the San Juan Islands of Washington State. He is drawn to the study of bird flight by his experiences as an instrument-rated private pilot, his professional training in anatomy and biomechanics, and his passion for nature and the outdoors. In his presentation, Peter will show photographs and videos illustrating various aspects of bird flight described in his recent book *How Birds Fly.* His images have been featured in the Audubon Society's Top 100 Bird Photographs of the Year. Peter is also the author of *100 Flying Birds: Photographing the Mechanics of Flight* and has traveled widely to photograph birds on every continent, most recently to India and Bhutan. Don't miss this exciting presentation!
Date: 1/5/26 1:54 pm From: Joachim Gonzalez via groups.io <jogonzal101...> Subject: [SFBirds] SF CBC: Area 5 (Eastern Golden Gate Park)
Hey All,
We had a wonderful, if a little gusty, day of counting on December 29th.
I'd like to show love to all of our counters! Our crew consisted of four
teams and twelve total counters. Long-time area leaders Matt and JoAnn
Zlatunich were joined by Maya Cibiri, Leo Kim, and Nathan and Max
Theurkauf. Area vet Angie was joined by Karen Miller and Michele Liapes in
the arboretum and, for the first time, we had a group on Lone Mountain in
the morning! They were Roy Leggitt and Courtney Clarkson, huge shout-out to
them.
We had 74 total species, which is on the high-end for our area, and just
three species lower than our all-time high of 77 species last year.
Highlights: 3 Say's Phoebes (2 on Lone Mountain and 1 in the arboretum);
definitely an all-time high count for the species in our area. Western
Bluebirds were present on Lone Mountain for the second year in a row, I
suppose that's a regular wintering site for them. I wonder if they breed up
there. I had a Nashville Warbler in the euks and ornamentals south of the
Sharon Arts Studio near Hippie Hill. JoAnn found a Green Heron a few days
prior at Blue Heron Lake and we finally picked up as it flew in to roost in
the willows just south of the pagoda. Also at Blue Heron Lake were two
Black-crowned Night Herons, the first in our area since at least 2020.
We had several Band-tailed Pigeon flocks with the flight conditions in the
morning, totalling 500. Lots of Robin flocks (nearly 500 total), but very
few residents actually in the park. One of the robin flocks had a
female-type *Piranga* tanager that flew east over McLaren Lodge whose views
were too brief to ID to species.
Downy Woodpecker numbers were way down, we only had 1 in the entire
area(!). Jay numbers felt pretty low, only 17 throughout the area (and only
3 throughout the oak woodlands). Only 2 Varied Thrushes and 2 groups of
Cedar Waxwings (22 total individuals) felt very low.
Sparrow numbers were *remarkably* low. We had the lowest Fox Sparrow
numbers in the last 5 years, only 16. Last year we had 26 which itself was
a near 50% drop from the 44 and 40 in 2021 and 2022. White-crowned Sparrow
numbers were very low, with only 70 in Golden Gate Park. 64 Golden-crowned
Sparrows was paltry compared to the 130, 260 and 190 of 2024, 2021 and 2020
respectively. We only had a single Lincoln's Sparrows and 2 White-throated
Sparrows, when we typically get at least a half-dozen of each. I struggled
to find blackbirds, as they were absent from all of their traditional
locations (Music Concourse, Blue Heron Lake, Whole Foods parking lot/Alvord
Lake), and I finally picked up 7 Brewer's and 12 Red-wings while driving
around the Sunset trying to track them down (9th and Irving specifically).
Warbler numbers were comparable to previous years, with the exception of
Yellow-rumps (15 Orange-crowns, 57 Townsend's, 2 Common Yellowthroats).
Bewick's Wren numbers were healthy, following up our first ever last year
with 4 throughout the oak woodlands this year, reflecting their explosion
throughout the city–where they used to be quite local. In contrast to the
low Downy numbers, we had 4 Hairy Woodpeckers, with a pair near the
skatepark and a pair on Strawberry Hill. Finch numbers actually increased
from previous years, with 15 Siskins and 13 Purple Finches being a nice
uptick from the low single-digits we've had recently. We had over 400
Yellow-rumps, which nearly doubles our highest total since 2020.
Date: 1/3/26 9:36 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] Area 4 (Land's End) CBC Summary
Below is a summary of Area 4 of the 2025 SF Christmas Bird Count, which includes Land's End, Sutro Baths, the north end of Ocean Beach over to China Beach, and parts of the Richmond.
Grateful to Nancy, Connor, Michelle, Heather, Fred, Hannah, Taylor, Jon, and Jesse for their enthusiasm and skill. This year featured ideal counting conditions with clear skies, offshore winds, and great visibility. These conditions produced a waterfowl flight into the Golden Gate, accounting for a number of new species for our area, and likely boosted our totals across the board.
We counted at least a 6-year high of 4,014 birds of a record 91 species. We had 4 rarities this year: Long-tailed Duck spotted by Fred, a flock of Redhead moving over the ocean, a continuing Hermit Warbler, and the Grace's Warbler, a continuing first-city record overwintering for at least the second time, first observed by John F. in September of 2024.
Looking back at (eBird) data over the *last 6 years*:
2020: 73 species and 2,509 birds counted 2021: 77 species and 3,037 birds counted 2022: 56 species and 778 birds counted 2023: 64 species and 1,998 birds counted 2024: 80 species and 2,729 birds counted 2025: 91 species and 4,014 birds counted
Date: 12/31/25 5:22 pm From: Josiah Clark via groups.io <josiah.clark621...> Subject: [SFBirds] ancient Murrelet close to shore at seal rock
While collecting some dungeness
crab for New Year’s in less than ideal conditions, I found myself in the
lee of Seal rock and in the company of an ancient murrelet finding the
same respite.
It was unusually trusting as far as Kayak encounters with Murrelets go. Sadly,
my phone was too cold and wet to capture the moment. Nor could I make a
quick post from the water, but I tried.It did not dive or fly away from my
presence and it was a special moment.
Hopefully, it’s just seeking refuge from the storm and not in poor health.
I predict reports of this is happening all up and down the coast for the
next few days.
I did note the bird pick up from a distance and fly back to the front of
the drift to stay in the calm water so it’s possible it will be there
tomorrow.
In retrospect I also realized 4-5 Murrelets I scoped off Ocean Beach
last week and reported as marbled were likely Ancient as well l as there
seems to be a significant incursion of them at the moment.
Josiah Clark | Habitat Potential | Consulting Ecologist | 415.317.3978
License #1043929
habitatpotential.net
www.youtube.com/josiahmtclark
Date: 12/31/25 3:32 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Trip Report for SFBC so far
Here’s a link to the Trip Report for the Count https://ebird.org/tripreport/451132 It’s a work in progress (we haven’t compensated for double counting yet) but it will give you a list of reported species so you can know what to look for if you want to add species (like California Quail in northern San Mateo County).
Date: 12/31/25 2:32 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Preliminary SF CBC 2025 Report
We're still waiting on some checklists to be shared, but the preliminary species count for the 2025 Count looks like it will 183, which would be one of our highest (we had 185 in 2020). Our Count week total will depend on what is added today and tomorrow (our record is 191). We definitely will set a record for number of participants, and the total number of birds counted will likely exceed 70,000 (vs 57,233 last year when we didn't have a boat on Count Day and didn't have access to the golf courses around Lake Merced). If you still have checklists to be shared with SFCBCount, please share them as soon as possible. A tip for sharing - please make sure your party size is set to 2 or higher - otherwise it may not share. Best bird of the Count award went to Dominik Mosur for the Rufuous-crowned Sparrow. Thanks to the 220+ people who participated - it was a great Count.
Date: 12/30/25 11:29 pm From: Josiah Clark via groups.io <josiah.clark621...> Subject: [SFBirds] presidio CBC area report, 11 warbler species etc
The Presidio was fortunate to have a packed team of 15 dedicated counters
who came through on Count day.
This team has a remarkable number of people who live or work in the
territory, which combined yields a deep and vast local knowledge of
virtually every corner of this territory. We were also honored to have the
participation of Members of the Presidio natural resource staff and counters
from the East Bay and beyond.
Good coverage, accurate counts and the identification of as many birds as
possible was our unified goal. And to that end yesterday’s crew absolutely
crushed it!
By delegating tasks and working from the corners of the territory towards
the middle, the team was able to make the most of nearly perfect winter
birding conditions. we even had time for a midday meeting at the battery
before redeployment.
A solid winter east wind flight at Battery Godfrey combined with
exceptional rare and vagrant bird hounding in the riparian laden
neighborhoods of the eastern Presidio were the significant
contributing factors in the territory reaching its highest (and likely
unbeatable) total of 131 species.
While rarities and high species totals often take center stage, The trends,
patterns and data are the most important part of any Christmas bird count.
On a positive note, it was great to see an increase in yellow- rumped
warblers (Hundreds in the Presidio and all through the neighborhoods).
Junco numbers feel like they have improved a little bit to me. As usual,
the hummingbird numbers got kind of ridiculous but I suspect at least 300.
three FalconsSeriously
An estimated 4000 band-tailed pigeons And 1500 robins (Varied thrushes,
Siskins, purple finches mixed in ) passed over the Presidio, most on their
way north. I was riding around pre-dawn and had to go over there to check
it out. Swarming pigeons and robins on the first breath of the new day,
strafing Falcons and so forth. It was a good scene.
Many of the native habitats, especially Oak and riparian were quite active
with Bird life. Similarly, the Experimental forest areas planted and led up
by The Presidio Trust are coming into their own and proving to be rich new
birding areas.
Barn Owls have been around recently, but we missed it despite over five
hours of owling effort. Nine great-horned owls was actually low. It was
silent night out there with most sounding off only at dawn.
Sea level rise is another major theme that has become obvious to me over
the decades as I cover the Presidio over and over again. Once
again,Christmas counts capture the shifting baseline.
The Snowy Plovers that always used to be In the shorebird protection
area are now gone along with the Driftwood and native Dune vegetation in
which they hid. Washed away on historic level king tides.
The Rocky shores of North Baker Beach where Surfbirds used to be are now
covered over much more of the time and the intertidal
foraging regime altered.
The Crissy Field Lagoon, which used to have more open mud and gradual
chores is now filled like a bathtub with little room for sure Birds. In the
much constricted shoreline, locals found just 12 Wilson’s Snipe, About half
of normal And there is decreasing shorebird habitat In the Crissy Lagoon.
What was really missing for us in the Presidio were not species but rather
the numbers of them. Sparrows. I suspect we get about 25% the numbers that
we used to get a decade ago. Golden-crowned numbers are better than last
year, but overall crowned and fox sparrow numbers are way down. Studies
indicate that a new breed of organophosphate Fertilizers and
Neonicinitinoid Pesticides have been linked to sparrow declines.
Bushtits are getting quite sparse hard to find. Similarly blackbirds have
essentially evacuated the territory, except at their very important
roosting and nesting site in the reeds at Mountain Lake Park. Mourning dove and
scrub jay numbers are way down. Mockingbirds used to be common in the
territory, now we often miss them. I believe the recent population
explosion of crows and ravens is directly responsible for the decline in
the non-migratory, resident species listed above.
Highlights:
We had three species of falcon, 2 species of Eagle (9 raptor species),
Grebe grand slam, both rails, 14 Species of waterfowl, 7 species of sparrow
and 11 species of warbler!
Hugh Cotter at the helm of Godfrey: Golden Eagle, Barn Swallow, WF geese,
cackling geese, pintail, more uncommon presidio ducks etc
Andrew Mcgann- Bald Eagle, east bluffs (He also tried for saw-wet Owl for
like three hours)
David Webster-Wilson’s Warbler (A stake out in one of his secret patches)
Logan Kahle- This growing boy found the other 10 species of warbler all by
himself… Hermit Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Black and white warbler that he
Originally found in November.
The other two species of eastern warbler include three individuals, and he
should tell you about them…
Date: 12/30/25 2:25 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Rufous-crown update
The sparrow was seen a little awhile ago on the terrace full of loose
construction material, just below the yellow excavator. It then flew east
to the nearest house before plunging back downhill toward Hunters Point.
Thanks to Dom for finding, Jonah for refinding, and Cedric for re-refinding!
Brian Fitch
On Tue, Dec 30, 2025 at 11:59 AM Jonah Benningfield via groups.io
<falco1440...> wrote:
> It’s here! Similar spot—around piles of construction supplies
>
> all the best,
> Jonah B.
>
> > 30 дек. 2025 г., в 09:49, Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur=
> <gmail.com...> написал(а):
> >
> >
> > Just left the spot where approximately 15 people had converged this
> morning. So far there’s been no visual confirmation of the bird’s continued
> presence. Please update the list if it is relocated.
> >
> > DM
> > SF
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 12/30/25 11:59 am From: Jonah Benningfield via groups.io <falco1440...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Rufous-crown update
It’s here! Similar spot—around piles of construction supplies
all the best,
Jonah B.
> 30 дек. 2025 г., в 09:49, Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> написал(а):
>
>
> Just left the spot where approximately 15 people had converged this morning. So far there’s been no visual confirmation of the bird’s continued presence. Please update the list if it is relocated.
>
> DM
> SF
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 12/30/25 11:21 am From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] Update to SF CBC 12/29/2025 - Area 10:Bayview/Candlestick recap + Ross’s Goose
Date: 12/30/25 9:49 am From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] Rufous-crown update
Just left the spot where approximately 15 people had converged this morning. So far there’s been no visual confirmation of the bird’s continued presence. Please update the list if it is relocated.
Date: 12/30/25 7:41 am From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: Correction to Tennessee location Re: [SFBirds] SF CBC 12/29/2025 - Area 10:Bayview/Candlestick recap
Date: 12/30/25 5:30 am From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] Rufous-Crowned Sparrow some additional information. PLEASE READ if you are thinking about "chasing"
Waking up this morning after the excitement has passed a bit I realize that
I should put out some more information regarding the location of the
Rufous-crowned Sparrow found on the SF CBC yesterday beyond just “park at
LaSalle and Earl and walk west.”
This is not what most would consider a birding venue. The hillside here
has been graded and prepped for construction and although it hasn't been
active for a while (looks the same as it did when I checked it last year on
the CBC) and isn't securely fenced off it may not be actually "abandoned"
as I mentioned to some people inquiring about it yesterday.
In addition to being strewn with construction waste the spot where
the sparrow was first seen is very steep with loose soil softened by recent
rain. As I was walking in the direction where I found the bird I thought to
myself as I hobbled on an injured ankle, "I need to be careful, I could
fall and hurt myself" and moments later I caught my foot in a strip of
plastic and almost did just that.
As for the bird itself, it wasn't right past the fence. I actually slogged
about 100 meters on uneven and unstable ground before it suddenly appeared
into view, and while I watched and photographed it, it was slowly but
steadily moving west away from LaSalle@ Earl so no guarantees it will even
be there today.
Although I am currently slightly injured (if I was a MLB player coach would
list me day-to-day) I will make an attempt to show up there this morning to
help guide folks who do make the attempt but obviously, if you enter this
area YOU ARE DOING SO AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Date: 12/29/25 10:48 pm From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] SF CBC 12/29/2025 - Area 10:Bayview/Candlestick recap
Some of the more notable observations from today's count in Area 10:
Snow Geese - 3 with Canada Geese on Hunter’s Point Shipyard grassy field east of the Yosemite Slough freshwater pond
Cackling Geese - 5 “Aleutian” in same flock as the Snows
Bald Eagle - adult flew over Last Port /Candlestick Rec Area
**RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROW - only 2nd time ever noted on SF CBC (last was in the 60s?) . In weedy lot/construction site on backside of Willie Mays Field off Kiska. Park at LaSalle and Earl and walk west. Approximately here: 37.72902, -122.37581
TENNESSEE WARBLER - Adam Rogers park off Innes at dead end of Oakdake; one of three found on the count today.
Date: 12/28/25 9:20 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] Tomorrow: San Francisco Christmas Bird Count
Tomorrow, December 29th, over 200 birders will fan out across the San
Francisco count circle and conduct the Christmas Bird Count under what is
predicted to be ideal conditions- clear skies and offshore winds. As a
reminder, *Count Week runs through January 1. *If you can get out birding
any time tomorrow or during Count Week, every species you find or tally in
the SF count circle counts and helps strengthen the record for this year.
Please *log checklists in eBird* and/or *send uncommon to rare sightings to
this listserve, to me, or to any of the CBC compilers*.
Although finding rare birds is not the primary goal of the CBC, below is an
updated, partial list of uncommon-to-rare targets that would be good to get
on Count Day—and almost as valuable any time during *Count Week (ending Jan
1 )*.
Thank you for helping contribute to this important citizen science.
The SF CBC Compilers
David, Anna, Patrick, and Keith
149 species have been tallied so far during Count Week.
Expected species that have so far *not been observed *in the SF circle
during Count Week:
*Likely continuing (check eBird for latest reports) *
Common Ringed Plover - Yosemite Slough. Extremely difficult to identify and
document in current molt, among Semipalmated Plovers. Last seen December 11
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S288222287>.
White-breasted Nuthatch- North Lake, pines to the NW and NE of the lake.
Bullock's Oriole - Fort Mason.
Western Tanager - Fort Mason.
Nashville Warbler- Fort Mason, Mt. Davidson.
Harlequin Duck- Heron's Head, Pier 94.
Northern Yellow Warbler - Merced Harding Boathouse. I observed it here
37.726091,
-122.500377 on December 21.
Wilson's Warbler - Lobos Dunes on December 15
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S288769056>. Also various locations in and
around GGP including North Lake, Botanical Gardens and most recently Blue
Heron Lake on December 19. <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289329937> Green Heron- Blue Heron Lake, last seen December 24
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S290047263>. Likely present somewhere near
Merced's Concrete Bridge as well.
Cocos Booby- Battery Godfrey, Baker Beach and Alcatraz- might be foraging
in the channel anywhere around there. Last seen December 24.
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S290039648> Summer Tanager- last seen in SF Botanical on December 23 reported via
iNaturalist <https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/331856824> Palm Warbler- Duboce Park.
Hermit Warbler- Mt. Sutro.
*Unlikely to be continuing, but always worth checking: *
Clay-colored Sparrow - Fort Mason, last seen December 23
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S289935598>.
Snow Goose - Merced Harding Boathouse - might have departed? Last seen
on golf course December 15.
Long-billed Dowitcher - Pier 94, "Hanson Pond" - last seen December 21
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S289618604>.
MacGilivray's Warbler - Merced Wooden Bridge- last seen December 18
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S289096741>.
Common Gallinule - Lake Merced Concrete - seems to have departed / moved to
other areas of lake? Last seen December 7
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S287747415>.
Gadwall - Lake Merced Wooden Bridge- last seen 12/17.
Gray Catbird - Presidio / Washington Blvd - last seen December 3, and also
Elk Glen Lake last seen December 1.
Eastern Phoebe - Twin Peaks at the reservoir-- last seen November 23.
Lark Sparrow - Candlestick, last seen December 15
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S288736209>.
Northern Harrier- Foraging Heron's Head to Candlestick.
Canvasback - Lake Merced Concrete
Rufous Hummingbird - Elk Glen Lake
Grace's Warbler - Fort Miley - last seen November 15.
Tropical Kingbird - Pier 94
Note: There may be other uncommon to rare species continuing in San Mateo
county portions of the circle, not listed above.
Date: 12/27/25 9:23 am From: Zac Denning via groups.io <zdenning1...> Subject: [SFBirds] Local interest: Nashville Warbler at Pine Lake
Likely a continuing bird last reported in mid-December. Drab first year bird seen in the southwest Willows with a mixed warbler flock at (37.7366098, -122.4901131) at 9:15am, while scouting for the CBC.
Date: 12/24/25 8:01 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] CORRECTION: Friday, December 26th: Count Week Begins!
On Wed, Dec 24, 2025 at 7:59 PM Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> The San Francisco Christmas Bird Count is *Monday, December 29*—and *Count
> Week runs December 26 through January 1.*
>
> If you can get out birding any time during Count Week, every species you
> find in the SF count circle counts and helps strengthen the record for this
> year. The forecast is currently looking promising (clear skies, offshore
> winds)—a great setup for getting outside and adding birds.
>
> Please *log checklists in eBird* and/or *send uncommon to rare sightings
> to this listserve, to me, or to any of the CBC compilers*.
>
> When reporting rare birds, a written description of the exact location is
> helpful—but the biggest help is *an exact location with GPS coordinates*
> so other birders can re-find your bird. Linked HERE
> <https://www.howtogeek.com/689097/how-to-get-latitude-and-longitude-coordinates-from-google-maps/?<utm_source...> > are some instructions on how to grab GPS coordinates.
> Below is a partial list of uncommon-to-rare targets that would be
> fantastic to get on Count Day—and almost as valuable any time during *Count
> Week (starting this Friday, December 26)*.
>
> Happy holidays, happy counting, and good birding to all--
> The SF CBC Compilers
> David, Anna, Patrick, and Keith
>
> *Likely continuing*
>
> Common Ringed Plover - Yosemite Slough. Extremely difficult to
> identify and document in current molt, among Semipalmated Plovers. Last
> seen December 11 <https://ebird.org/checklist/S288222287>.
> Bullock's Oriole - Fort Mason. Two birds. Last seen December 24
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S290016742>.
> Western Tanager - Fort Mason. Last seen December 2
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289437696>0.
> Clay-colored Sparrow - Fort Mason, last seen December 23
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289935598>.
> Nashville Warbler - Mt. Davidson and another at Fort Mason, last seen
> December 24.
> Northern Yellow Warbler - Merced Harding Boathouse. I observed it here 37.726091,
> -122.500377 on December 21.
> Wilson's Warbler - Lobos Dunes on December 15
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S288769056>. Also various locations in and
> around GGP including North Lake, Botanical Gardens and most recently Blue
> Heron Lake on December 19. <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289329937> > Green Heron- Blue Heron Lake, last seen December 24
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S290047263>. Likely present somewhere near
> Merced's Concrete Bridge as well.
> Cocos Booby- Battery Godfrey, Baker Beach and Alcatraz- might be foraging
> in the channel anywhere around there. Last seen December 24.
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S290039648> > Summer Tanager- last seen in SF Botanical on December 23 reported via
> iNaturalist <https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/331856824> >
> *Possibly Continuing *
>
> Snow Goose - Merced Harding Boathouse - might have departed? Last seen
> on golf course December 15.
> Harlequin Duck - Pier 94 / Heron's Head - seems to have departed? But to
> where? Last seen at Heron's Head on December 18
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289264296>.
> Long-billed Dowitcher - Pier 94, "Hanson Pond" - last seen December 21
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289618604>.
> MacGilivray's Warbler - Merced Wooden Bridge- last seen December 18
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S289096741>.
> Common Gallinule - Lake Merced Concrete - seems to have departed / moved
> to other areas of lake? Last seen December 7
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S287747415>.
> Gadwall - Lake Merced Wooden Bridge- last seen 12/17.
> Gray Catbird - Presidio / Washington Blvd - last seen December 3, and also
> Elk Glen Lake last seen December 1.
> Eastern Phoebe - Twin Peaks at the reservoir-- last seen November 23.
> Lark Sparrow - Candlestick, last seen December 15
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S288736209>.
> Palm Warbler - Deboce Park, last seen December 15
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S288790811>.
> Northern Harrier- Foraging Heron's Head to Candlestick.
>
> *Unlikely continuing *
>
> Canvasback - Lake Merced Concrete
> Rufous Hummingbird - Elk Glen Lake
> Grace's Warbler - Fort Miley - last seen November 15.
> Tropical Kingbird - Pier 94
>
> *SF Count / San Mateo County Rarities *
>
> Chipping Sparrow (see Telegram report)
> Black-and-White Warbler (see Telegram report)
> (Likely others outside the county, but within the count circle. I did not
> do a careful sweep.)
>
> *Other tough-to-get species we need:*
>
> Pacific Loon
> Marbled Murrelet
> Ancient Murrelet
> Golden-crowned Kinglet
> Red-breasted Nuthatch (Unlikely in SF during this non-irruption year)
> Red-necked Grebe
> White-tailed Kite
> Bald Eagle
> Golden Eagle
> Greater White-fronted Goose
> Cackling Goose
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 12/24/25 7:59 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] Saturday, December 26th: Count Week Begins!
The San Francisco Christmas Bird Count is *Monday, December 29*—and *Count
Week runs December 26 through January 1.*
If you can get out birding any time during Count Week, every species you
find in the SF count circle counts and helps strengthen the record for this
year. The forecast is currently looking promising (clear skies, offshore
winds)—a great setup for getting outside and adding birds.
Please *log checklists in eBird* and/or *send uncommon to rare sightings to
this listserve, to me, or to any of the CBC compilers*.
When reporting rare birds, a written description of the exact location is
helpful—but the biggest help is *an exact location with GPS coordinates* so
other birders can re-find your bird. Linked HERE
<https://www.howtogeek.com/689097/how-to-get-latitude-and-longitude-coordinates-from-google-maps/?<utm_source...> are some instructions on how to grab GPS coordinates.
Below is a partial list of uncommon-to-rare targets that would be fantastic
to get on Count Day—and almost as valuable any time during *Count Week
(starting this Saturday, December 26)*.
Happy holidays, happy counting, and good birding to all--
The SF CBC Compilers
David, Anna, Patrick, and Keith
Snow Goose - Merced Harding Boathouse - might have departed? Last seen
on golf course December 15.
Harlequin Duck - Pier 94 / Heron's Head - seems to have departed? But to
where? Last seen at Heron's Head on December 18
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S289264296>.
Long-billed Dowitcher - Pier 94, "Hanson Pond" - last seen December 21
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S289618604>.
MacGilivray's Warbler - Merced Wooden Bridge- last seen December 18
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S289096741>.
Common Gallinule - Lake Merced Concrete - seems to have departed / moved to
other areas of lake? Last seen December 7
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S287747415>.
Gadwall - Lake Merced Wooden Bridge- last seen 12/17.
Gray Catbird - Presidio / Washington Blvd - last seen December 3, and also
Elk Glen Lake last seen December 1.
Eastern Phoebe - Twin Peaks at the reservoir-- last seen November 23.
Lark Sparrow - Candlestick, last seen December 15
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S288736209>.
Palm Warbler - Deboce Park, last seen December 15
<https://ebird.org/checklist/S288790811>.
Northern Harrier- Foraging Heron's Head to Candlestick.
*Unlikely continuing *
Canvasback - Lake Merced Concrete
Rufous Hummingbird - Elk Glen Lake
Grace's Warbler - Fort Miley - last seen November 15.
Tropical Kingbird - Pier 94
*SF Count / San Mateo County Rarities *
Chipping Sparrow (see Telegram report)
Black-and-White Warbler (see Telegram report)
(Likely others outside the county, but within the count circle. I did not
do a careful sweep.)
*Other tough-to-get species we need:*
Pacific Loon
Marbled Murrelet
Ancient Murrelet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Red-breasted Nuthatch (Unlikely in SF during this non-irruption year)
Red-necked Grebe
White-tailed Kite
Bald Eagle
Golden Eagle
Greater White-fronted Goose
Cackling Goose
Date: 12/20/25 10:00 am From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Fort Mason Local Interest
Yesterday I was pleasantly surprised to find two BULLOCK'S ORIOLES in the same tree outside the Community Garden. The continuing WESTERN TANAGER was seen briefly in the Garden, and the continuing CLAY-COLORED SPARROW foraged with lots of WHITE-CROWNED and HOUSE SPARROWS just east of the Community Garden. I fairly confident that there are also two NASHVILLE WARBLERS at Fort Mason right now.
Here's a few observations of note from the first two weeks of December.
Cackling Geese - two good sized skeins flew over Mount Sutro on 12/1 totalling 210, one of the groups included a single ROSS'S GOOSE.
SNOW GEESE - a loner flew over Mount Sutro 12/1, 11 were seen flying past Sunset Reservoir 12/8 with 9 Greater White-fronted Geese and 2 have been seen by m.ob frequenting Harding Park and various points on Lake Merced since 12/8 and still present yesterday
Golden-crowned Kinglets - these have been much scarcer this fall in contrast to last year when they were ubiquitous . At least two were noted in a mixed flock on the west side of Buena Vista Park 12/11
Song Sparrow (Montana/merrili ssp.) - one of this subspecies group was along the trail up from Christopher Drive on Mount Sutro OSP yesterday (12/15) following point counts. Differs from local song sparrows in being mostly gray and rufous toned. A couple of photos here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S288748159
BULLOCK's ORIOLE -a first winter individual was working the blooming exotics along the edges of Corona Heights park along States and Roosevelt Streets midday on 12/13. I was not able to relocate the oriole today but it may be somewhere in the neighborhood which has lots of foraging options
Tricolored Blackbirds - a small group can be found at McCoppin Square in the Sunset in the morning feeding with a large flock of Brown-headed Cowbirds. This morning there were 12; the blackbird flock feeds on food left out behind the library at 22nd and Taraval.
ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER ssp. sordida - presumably the same individual noted at the end of October and observed on multiple occasions in November and early December continued at Corona Heights Park this morning, in the blackberry/cape ivy tangle accessed from 15th Street at the Tennis Courts
MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER** - a very rare in winter for Northern California MacGillivray's Warbler first located by *Sam Talarigo on 12/3, this bird continues to be observed in the same are as recently as yesterday (12/15) in the willows on the golf course side of the Wooden Bridge at North Lake Merced. CBC surveyors for that territory take note.
Northern Yellow Warbler - wintering bird continued in the myoporum/albizia thickets near the Lake Merced Boathouse on 12/8.
Date: 12/15/25 4:56 pm From: Noreen Weeden via groups.io <noreen...> Subject: [SFBirds] SF Oak Tree Bird Study Jan 18-Feb 7, 2026
*****************
SF Oak Bird Study
*****************
Oak woodlands are biodiversity hotspots, providing rich and viable habitat for a wide array of insects and birds. However, in urban environments, oaks are often isolated, and it remains unclear whether they maintain the same ecological functions within cities. Understanding how oaks contribute to urban biodiversity can inform urban forestry practices and planning, helping to maximize their ecological value. This knowledge is particularly urgent as cities grapple with a growing biodiversity and climate crisis.
This project will explore how avian biodiversity varies in the urban landscape between oaks and non-native trees. To do this, we have selected oaks and non-native street trees to be sampled across San Francisco. Using point-count data at designated trees collected with eBird, we will calculate species richness and abundance to provide insight into how different street tree species support avian biodiversity. In sum, this data will be valuable for assessing how native and non-native trees support biodiversity and for informing future tree-planting decisions to enhance ecosystem services (e.g., shade) and ecosystem functions (e.g., biodiversity). To achieve this project, we are seeking volunteers to assist with data collection for our winter season.
*Winter Season Info*
*The winter survey window will be from January 18th, 2026 to February 7th, 2026.* The project and your role remain the same: conducting bird surveys at 1-3 sets of trees (2-6 trees total) on three separate days with at least a single day buffer in between during the study period.
As a reminder, the role involves:
§ Conducting surveys from sunrise to 4 hours post-sunrise.
§ Identifying birds confidently by sight and sound.
§ Recording data and supplemental information in eBird
§ Sending in checklist of observations via email
*If you are interested and available for the Winter season, please email Cesar Estien (* *<cesar...>* *).*
In your reply, please also confirm:
1. The number of tree-pairs you're comfortable sampling (1, 2, or 3).
2. Any spatial constraints you might have (e.g., "I prefer to sample in the Sunset"), or if you would prefer to have the same tree as before. Note: If you have not surveyed your tree both seasons in a row, the tree may not be available depending on who confirms first.
We hope you can join us! If you know of any friends interested, please feel free to forward this email to them.
Date: 12/14/25 9:44 am From: Andrew Carney via groups.io <carney.andrew...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Leucistic hummingbird at 1 Letterman right outside Starbucks
Still here this morning at 9.42 at the same location.
On Fri, Dec 12, 2025 at 2:32 PM Robert Ho via groups.io <hofit4life=
<aol.com...> wrote:
The flight at Battery Godfrey was significantly less today, Saturday, than yesterday. The Cocos Booby was seen early in the channel again. There were a number of duck flocks noted with multiple Canvasback groups and one possible Redhead group.
Hugh
On Fri, Dec 12, 2025 at 1:14 PM Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley= <gmail.com...> wrote:
> A small group of observers including Nancy, Logan, Caitlin, and John > witnessed an amazing waterfowl flight at Battery Godfrey today as offshore > winds pushed upwards of 20 mph with cold temperatures and clear skies. > Right after sunrise, a distant swan (presumably Tundra) led a group of > unidentified dark geese from over the Point Bonita arm northeastward, > entirely within Marin County. The flight picked up from there, with our > attempted tallies of the flocks outlined below, all of which are > significant undercounts of the numbers coming into the gate. Geese > continued to pour in when I left at noon. Logan spotted an adult female > COCOS BOOBY in the channel under the constant harassment of gulls and it > remained there throughout. > > Greater White-fronted Goose 41, 20, 3, 60, 5, 39, 20, 22, 40, 15, 4, 16, > 9, 52 > Cackling Goose 12, 7, 2, 10, 19, 20, 1 > Snow Goose 1, 30, 5, 5, 37, 15, 25, 20, 68, 1, 33, 21, 12, 40, 27 > Ross's Goose 6, 1, 10, 12, 1, 3 > American Wigeon 12, 9, 2, 30, 3, 1, 2, 5, 4, 12, 5, 8, 2, 6, 9, 12, 1, 15, > 12, 9 > Northern Pintail 9, 12, 10, 18, 15, 18, 6, 5, 15, 28, 7, 13, 50, 13, 19, > 23, 26, 2, 21, 22, 20, 1, 15, 10, 20, 15, 45 > Northern Shoveler 3, 4, 4, 3, 20, 2, 5, 6, 4, 2, 1 > Green-winged Teal 1,1,1,1 (all singles mixed with dabbler flocks) > Mallard 2, 1, 2, 2 > Gadwall 10 > Greater Scaup 1, 1, 8, 1 > Lesser Scaup 10, 2 > Ring-necked Duck 2 (rare for battery- nocturnal migrants) > Canvasback 1, 26 > Surf Scoter 6, 7, 3, 7, 7, 5, 3, 2, 2, 7 + about 60 below bluff > > > > >
Date: 12/13/25 8:29 am From: <spw49...> via groups.io <spw49...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Fort Mason Local Interest
Fabulous photos, thanks so much!
On Friday, December 12, 2025 at 06:41:17 PM PST, David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> wrote:
10 days after I first spotted it, the CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was foraging in with a number of other Sparrows in front of the garden at Fort Mason this morning. The continuing BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and a recently arrived WESTERN TANAGER were also present. I've been enjoying watching a NASHVILLE WARBLER that's been around for a few weeks, and TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLERS have been using the bird baths. Three species of geese - CANADA, CACKLING and GREATER-WHITE FRONTED, flew over Fort Mason this morning.
Date: 12/12/25 6:41 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Fort Mason Local Interest
10 days after I first spotted it, the CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was foraging in with a number of other Sparrows in front of the garden at Fort Mason this morning. The continuing BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and a recently arrived WESTERN TANAGER were also present. I've been enjoying watching a NASHVILLE WARBLER that's been around for a few weeks, and TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLERS have been using the bird baths. Three species of geese - CANADA, CACKLING and GREATER-WHITE FRONTED, flew over Fort Mason this morning.
Date: 12/12/25 1:14 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] Battery Godfrey - Waterfowl flight + Cocos Booby
A small group of observers including Nancy, Logan, Caitlin, and John witnessed an amazing waterfowl flight at Battery Godfrey today as offshore winds pushed upwards of 20 mph with cold temperatures and clear skies. Right after sunrise, a distant swan (presumably Tundra) led a group of unidentified dark geese from over the Point Bonita arm northeastward, entirely within Marin County. The flight picked up from there, with our attempted tallies of the flocks outlined below, all of which are significant undercounts of the numbers coming into the gate. Geese continued to pour in when I left at noon. Logan spotted an adult female COCOS BOOBY in the channel under the constant harassment of gulls and it remained there throughout.
Date: 12/12/25 1:08 pm From: birdwoman7007 via groups.io <sen007...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Tomorrow is the last day to register for the December 29, 2025 San Francisco Christmas Bird Count
Greetings David,
Happy Holidays. Hope all is well. Please sign me up for SF X-Mas Bird Count
and volunteer for the dinner as always happy to support. I tried to do so on computer
but it did not submit ME for my area 1. Thanks so much. Stay warm.
All the best, Leslie
Date: 12/12/25 9:56 am From: Bob Hall via groups.io <bilgepump100...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Snow Goose at Lake Merced Concrete Bridge.
Nancy: It was great meeting you at the Concrete Bridge (sometimes now called the Ohlone Bridge) to hear about your Snow Goose sighting. After helping plant two hundred native plants where the myoporium trees were chopped down, I crawled under the bridge and removed two garbage cans of plastic (many poo bags). On my walk back to the trucks I was rewarded with a Snow Goose flyover! We’re lucky to have a place like Lake Merced.
Bob Hall
--
Bob Hall
San Francisco, CA
"There is no better high than discovery." - E.O. Wilson
Date: 12/11/25 2:46 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Tomorrow is the last day to register for the December 29, 2025 San Francisco Christmas Bird Count
Last chance to register for the SF CBC. You can register as a Field Observer or Feeder Watcher, and you can also sign-up for the Count Dinner at the links below. Participation is free; the cost of the optional dinner is $35.
Date: 12/11/25 2:07 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Sutro Waterfowl
Similarly from Battery Godfrey, there was a moderate waterfowl flight this
morning. Offshore winds were stronger than predicted, building to 15 mph,
and the fog cleared after the first couple of hours. All waterfowl were
flying east into the gate.
On Thu, Dec 11, 2025 at 12:48 PM Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> This morning's seawatch was my most productive in a while, as water birds
> were moving despite the many days in a row of northeasterlies. The flight
> wasn't numerically large, but was varied and relatively continuous over
> four hours. Duck flocks all approached low over the sea surface and then
> moved upwards as they headed into the Golden Gate, while the three goose
> flocks approached high and each from different areas. The final flock of
> fifty White-fronteds came from the open sea in the direction of the
> Farallons, and tried for many minutes to approach the Gate before giving up
> and angling southeast. Murres were moving constantly in every direction in
> lines of sixty or less, so I'm only making a rough estimate below.
> Highlights included:
>
> Greater White-fronted Goose - 20, 75, 50
> Snow Goose - 8 with the above flock of 75
> Brant - 3 northbound
> Gadwall - 2
> American Wigeon - 4, 4, 10, 5
> Northern Shoveler - 12, 7, 8
> Northern Pintail - 20, 4, 15, 11, 6
> Redhead - 1 F, 1 M
> Greater Scaup - 8 southbound
> Bufflehead - 2 over the sea, more on the Baths
> Clark's Grebe - in flight north
> Common Murre - 10,000+
> Ancient Murrelet - 1 weaving north through crowds of murres
> - and 1 late Humpback in the mouth of the Gate during the entire watch.
> Brian Fitch
>
>
>
Date: 12/11/25 12:48 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Sutro Waterfowl
This morning's seawatch was my most productive in a while, as water birds were moving despite the many days in a row of northeasterlies. The flight wasn't numerically large, but was varied and relatively continuous over four hours. Duck flocks all approached low over the sea surface and then moved upwards as they headed into the Golden Gate, while the three goose flocks approached high and each from different areas. The final flock of fifty White-fronteds came from the open sea in the direction of the Farallons, and tried for many minutes to approach the Gate before giving up and angling southeast. Murres were moving constantly in every direction in lines of sixty or less, so I'm only making a rough estimate below. Highlights included:
Greater White-fronted Goose - 20, 75, 50 Snow Goose - 8 with the above flock of 75 Brant - 3 northbound Gadwall - 2 American Wigeon - 4, 4, 10, 5 Northern Shoveler - 12, 7, 8 Northern Pintail - 20, 4, 15, 11, 6 Redhead - 1 F, 1 M Greater Scaup - 8 southbound Bufflehead - 2 over the sea, more on the Baths Clark's Grebe - in flight north Common Murre - 10,000+ Ancient Murrelet - 1 weaving north through crowds of murres - and 1 late Humpback in the mouth of the Gate during the entire watch. Brian Fitch
Date: 12/11/25 11:58 am From: Nancy Palmer via groups.io <nancy_palmer...> Subject: [SFBirds] Snow Goose at Lake Merced Concrete Bridge.
Hi all,
Not sure if this has been reported yet but there is a Snow Goose in the south impound at the concrete bridge at Lake Merced right now. With a Greater white-fronted goose approx here: (37.7093850, -122.4868371).
Date: 12/11/25 7:14 am From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] San Francisco 2025 City List up to 305 at the end of November
10 new species were added during November. It was a better than average November, bringing our total to 305. Species added were Rough-legged Hawk, Canvasback, Rusty Blackbird (first sighting for San Francisco), Mute Swan (provisional, since it is an introduced species), Eastern Phoebe, Tundra Swan, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Ross's Goose, Redhead and Mountain Bluebird. The full annual list can be seen at https://sfbirds.net/2025-city-cumulative-list
