Date: 10/13/25 6:00 pm From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] September Cumulative Bird Report
South Bay Birders,
In September we added 5 new (ABA) countable birds, bringing the total to
271 at the end of the month. The average for September is 10 new birds,
with an average of 276 at the end of the month. We also had one (ABA)
uncountable bird – a Mute Swan, seen by Mike Rogers on 25-September in Salt
Pond A18. Thank you to everyone who birded, and took the time to report
birds either on SBB, eBird, or send emails directly to me.
Here are the (ABA) countable birds that were found in September:
1. Ruff (5), 2025-09-07, found by multiple observers, along the Don Edwards
NWR entrance road
2. Summer Tanager (5), 2025-09-10, found by John Scharpen at Sanborn County
Park – main entrance
3. Dark-sided Flycatcher (6), 2025-09-17, a first seen for the lower 48
states, found by Eve Meier and Patricia Lynch, at Charleston Road Marsh
4. Rose-breasted Grosbeak (5), 2025-09-02, first found by Ken Mamitsuka, at
Ulistac Natural Area
5. Pectoral Sandpiper (4), 2025-09-26, found by Cliff Drowley along the Don
Edwards NWR entrance road
As a reminder, here is what each rarity code means:
**Rarity Codes:
1 = common, always seen in habitat in season.
2 = fairly common, usually in habitat in season, but missed sometimes.
3 = uncommon, always around, but sometimes you can't find.
4 = rare, occurs yearly in the county, but not always in same places.
5 = very rare, does not occur every year.
6 = casual or vagrant, generally fewer than 10 records.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/12/25 8:37 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Centennial Field Trip to Lake Cunningham
Apologies to all......not a Hermit Warbler, but a Hermit Thrush. Still a
nice day
Vicki
On Sun, Oct 12, 2025, 4:06 PM Vicki Silvas-Young <mrnngwrblr...>
wrote:
> Good afternoon, South Bay Birders,
>
> With great anticipation, Sarah Chan and I met to lead the SCVBA Centennial
> field trip around Lake Cunningham on a bit of a chilly autumn day.
> Forty-five species delighted us with Great-tailed Grackles finally
> finishing up their moult and looking pretty spiffy; a seldom seen Common
> Yellowthroat making an appearance, adding to the celebration; a bunch of
> Green Herons brought their buddies, a proud group of American White
> Pelicans; White-crowned Sparrows and variously plumaged Yellow-rumped
> Warblers chorused all day long with a Golden-crowned Sparrow finally
> chiming in; a Northern Mockingbird along with some Spotted Towhees and a
> Hermit Warbler showed up a bit late to the party, looking like they
> celebrated heavily last night; many, many California Gulls with a couple of
> American Herring Gulls sneaking in with them; and the Bird-of-the-Day award
> goes to the Virginia Rail, also showing up late while skulking in the
> cattails. The surprise of the day was an Eared Grebe popping up from a
> dive about 15 feet from us!
> The day really warmed up a lot so we went home to cool off. Many thanks
> to Sarah for keeping the eBird list today.......and here it is eBird
> Checklist - 12 Oct 2025 - Lake Cunningham - 45 species (+1 other taxa)
> <https://ebird.org/checklist/S279026562> > As always, keep birding,
> Vicki
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/12/25 4:06 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Centennial Field Trip to Lake Cunningham
Good afternoon, South Bay Birders,
With great anticipation, Sarah Chan and I met to lead the SCVBA Centennial field trip around Lake Cunningham on a bit of a chilly autumn day. Forty-five species delighted us with Great-tailed Grackles finally finishing up their moult and looking pretty spiffy; a seldom seen Common Yellowthroat making an appearance, adding to the celebration; a bunch of Green Herons brought their buddies, a proud group of American White Pelicans; White-crowned Sparrows and variously plumaged Yellow-rumped Warblers chorused all day long with a Golden-crowned Sparrow finally chiming in; a Northern Mockingbird along with some Spotted Towhees and a Hermit Warbler showed up a bit late to the party, looking like they celebrated heavily last night; many, many California Gulls with a couple of American Herring Gulls sneaking in with them; and the Bird-of-the-Day award goes to the Virginia Rail, also showing up late while skulking in the cattails. The surprise of the day was an Eared Grebe popping up from a dive about 15 feet from us! The day really warmed up a lot so we went home to cool off. Many thanks to Sarah for keeping the eBird list today.......and here it is eBird Checklist - 12 Oct 2025 - Lake Cunningham - 45 species (+1 other taxa) <https://ebird.org/checklist/S279026562> As always, keep birding, Vicki
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/12/25 11:40 am From: Susan Tenney via groups.io <satenney...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Williamson’s Sapsucker (?) at Cuesta Park
Hi everyone,
Ryan Ludman and I led a field trip in Cuesta Park (Mountain View) this morning. We spotted this woodpecker working feverishly high in a pine near Grant Rd (37.3710866, -122.0780329). We believe it is a female Williamson's Sapsucker, one of which was seen in this location a couple of winters ago. Photos are attached; what do you think?
Thank you!
Susan
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/10/25 4:10 pm From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: Re: ID correction [southbaybirds] Rancho San Vicente looking for raptors for SCVBA
I have to correct my previous ID. Its one thing to get the ID wrong on a
bird, but to do that to a birder AND your co-lead.....Arg!
My co-lead was Ray Trent. I knew that.
Lisa
On 10/10/25 3:15 PM, Lisa Myers via groups.io wrote:
>
> I led a walk this morning with Ron Trent as my co-lead. This walk was
> scheduled as part of this months Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
> Centennial events.
>
> Our emphasis was on raptors and we had some wonderful moments with
> several species. We did have to spend a lot of time looking through
> *TURKEY VULTURES* and *COMMON RAVENS* and *AMERICAN CROWS *to make
> sure we were not missing something else.
>
> A female *AMERICAN KESTRAL* was sitting on the vertical man-made perch
> that stands in the field just north/west of the bathroom.
>
> We had both adult and juvenile *RED-TAILED HAWKS* throughout our
> morning, but we also had many distant and close moments with two adult
> *GOLDEN EAGLES.* The call of a *BALD EAGLE* also caught our attention.
> It was sitting in silhouette on a distant tree toward Calero
> Reservoir. A pair of adult *WHITE-TAILED KITES* were also staying
> close together.
>
> We took the Lisa Killough Trail to the Almaden Trail and turned
> around. At that final spot we watched what we decided was a family of
> *NORTHERN HARRIERS* all flush out of a low growing, sprawling Oak Tree
> when a Red-Tailed Hawk got too close. The harriers included an adult
> male, adult female and a 1st year. The harriers were vocalizing with a
> high-pitched "whee, whee, whee" that none of us had every heard
> before. All were flying around with a few Red-tailed Hawks in what
> appeared to be a territorial dispute.
>
> We also had a heard only *RED-SHOULDERED HAWK*.
>
> The others birds on our list included LARK SPARROW, WESTERN BLUEBIRD,
> WESTERN MEADOWLARK, CALIFORNIA SCRUB JAY, VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW, SAY'S
> and BLACK PHOEBE, RED-SHAFTED NORTHERN FLICKER to name a few.
>
> Happy Birthday SCVBA!
>
> Lisa Myers
> Los Gatos Birdwatcher/Let's Go Birding
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/10/25 3:15 pm From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Rancho San Vicente looking for raptors for SCVBA
I led a walk this morning with Ron Trent as my co-lead. This walk was
scheduled as part of this months Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
Centennial events.
Our emphasis was on raptors and we had some wonderful moments with
several species. We did have to spend a lot of time looking through
*TURKEY VULTURES* and *COMMON RAVENS* and *AMERICAN CROWS *to make sure
we were not missing something else.
A female *AMERICAN KESTRAL* was sitting on the vertical man-made perch
that stands in the field just north/west of the bathroom.
We had both adult and juvenile *RED-TAILED HAWKS* throughout our
morning, but we also had many distant and close moments with two adult
*GOLDEN EAGLES.* The call of a *BALD EAGLE* also caught our attention.
It was sitting in silhouette on a distant tree toward Calero Reservoir.
A pair of adult *WHITE-TAILED KITES* were also staying close together.
We took the Lisa Killough Trail to the Almaden Trail and turned around.
At that final spot we watched what we decided was a family of *NORTHERN
HARRIERS* all flush out of a low growing, sprawling Oak Tree when a
Red-Tailed Hawk got too close. The harriers included an adult male,
adult female and a 1st year. The harriers were vocalizing with a
high-pitched "whee, whee, whee" that none of us had every heard before.
All were flying around with a few Red-tailed Hawks in what appeared to
be a territorial dispute.
We also had a heard only *RED-SHOULDERED HAWK*.
The others birds on our list included LARK SPARROW, WESTERN BLUEBIRD,
WESTERN MEADOWLARK, CALIFORNIA SCRUB JAY, VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW, SAY'S
and BLACK PHOEBE, RED-SHAFTED NORTHERN FLICKER to name a few.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/9/25 9:11 pm From: Vinayak Hebbagil via groups.io <vinayakh7985...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Evening Field Trip to Rancho San Antonio 10/9
Hi all,
Today, Shweta Shidhore and I led a SCVBA evening field trip to Rancho San Antonio. Highlights were seeing a California Thrasher and sightings of returning wintering visitors: Ruby-crowned Kinglets, White and Golden-crowned Sparrows, Yellow-rumped Warblers. Also, the group had great views of a Red-shouldered Hawk harassed by Acorn Woodpeckers (among the four species of woodpeckers seen in the trip). The ebird checklist is here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278249744
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/9/25 7:57 pm From: John Harshman via groups.io <john.harshman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Long-eared owl at Sierra Vista
This afternoon we went to Sierra Vista OSP. Rock wren in the parking lot, female harrier literally everywhere we went. But the number one surprise was a *long-eared owl* that flew past us, largely below us, on the Aquila Loop Trail, just past the bench at the lowest point on the trail. I suspect it had been perching in an oak just above the trail and flew down to a tree below the trail. Sadly, no photos.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/9/25 6:58 pm From: Rick Herder via groups.io <rick.herder...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Snow Geese over Anderson Lake in Morgan Hill
At 5:15 this evening, 400+ very noisy Snow Geese flew due north over eastern Morgan Hill and Anderson Reservoir. Not quite as exciting as condors over the neighborhood, but great to see and hear. Even some non-birding neighbors noticed.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/9/25 1:44 pm From: m_m_rogers via groups.io <m.m.rogers...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Sage Thrasher at Byxbee Park
All,
Today 10/9/25, I saw a SAGE THRASHER at Byxbee Park in Palo Alto at 11:45am. It was foraging along the path and perched on bushes above the parking area at about 37.450403, -122.106548.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/8/25 2:08 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Trip to Vasona 10/8
Hi Everyone!
Today, Edward Rooks and I led a SCVBA field trip to Vasona County Park. Highlights were returning winter visitors: *Ruby-crowned Kinglets*, *White and Golden-crowned Sparrows*, *Townsend's Warblers*, *Yellow-rumped Warblers* and *Cedar Waxwings*. Other favorite sightings were great views of both the female and male *Belted Kingfishers*, a flock of about 50 *Bushtits *(never seen that many together), and one *Great Egret *landing in a tree rather higher than we would have expected.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/8/25 12:26 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] New Almaden, Black-throated Gray Warbler
This morning I birded along Almaden Reservoir and Herbert Creek. The
reservoir had just one new species, a male NORTHERN SHOVELER. Two
SPOTTED SANDPIPERS flew across the water and 12 VIOLET GREEN SWALLOWS
flew overhead.
My best birds were seen in a mixed flock at Hicks and Alamitos Road. An
agitated HOUSE WREN (see attached photo) was accompanied by a PURPLE
FINCH, two TOWNSEND'S WARBLER, several RUBY CROWNED KINGLET and a female
plumage BLACK THROATED GRAY WARBLER.
Flocks of BAND TAILED PIGEONS were seen in flight. A RED BREASTED
SAPSUCKER was found along Herbert Creek. Three NORTHERN FLICKER'S, two
HAIRY WOODPECKERS and three WILD TURKEY were among my 44 species today.
I saw very few sparrows, no Hermit Thrush or quail.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/7/25 5:12 pm From: John Harshman via groups.io <john.harshman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Phylo-birding at Alum Rock
It was a fine day at Alum Rock Park with co-leader Ray Trent. We were phylo-birding, which is like regular birding with an emphasis on phylogeny and biogeography. We saw birds from 22 families: Odontophoridae, Columbidae, Trochilidae, Apodidae, Cathartidae, Accipitridae, Picidae, Falconidae, Tyrannidae, Vireonidae, Corvidae, Paradoxornithidae, Aegithalidae, Turdidae, Sturnidae, Regulidae, Sittidae, Troglodytidae, Fringillidae, Paridae, Passerellidae, and Parulidae. And 7 orders: Galliformes, Columbiformes, Apodiformes, Accipitriformes, Piciformes, Falconiformes, and Passeriformes. Within Passeriformes, we found superfamilies Tyrannoidea, Corvoidea, Sylvioidea, Muscicapoidea, Certhioidea, and Passeroidea. For those less familiar with Latin, that notably included a peregrine (far away and briefly seen), wrentit (the only New World parrotbill, heard only), bushtits (the only New World long-tailed tit) a Say's phoebe (California's sole winter-only flycatcher), California scrub jay and Steller's jay (each in their own microhabitat), several ruby-crowned kinglets (one of the few passerines not in any superfamily), and several very accommodating Townsend's warblers (members of the New World 9-primaried oscine radiation).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/7/25 4:47 pm From: Steve Patt via groups.io <stevenpatt...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Bald Eagles at Arastradero
A friend just posted this picture on Strava from a run she did this morning at Arastradero, showing two Bald Eagles near the intersection of Woodrat and Meadowlark trails (basically the top of Woodrat).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/6/25 9:37 pm From: Clifford Drowley via groups.io <cliff_drowley...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Salt Pond A8 Alviso -Closed to the Public
Hi Brooke,
For my recent checklist, I accessed views of A8 (mostly, A8S) via the
gravel access road southwest/west of the Residence Inn (shown on Google
Maps as “America Center Court”), which runs along the east/south side of
A8S. There are no signs regarding restricted pedestrian/bicycle access to
this road that I could see, and the Google Maps street view confirms this.
This road IS gated against vehicle traffic, with multiple locks for hunter
access to the hunter check-in point on A8S.
The Bay Trail offshoot trail around the east/north side of Harvey Marsh
joins this access road, again with no signage restricting
pedestrian/bicycle access from that side.
I saw multiple runners and bicyclists using the access road while I was on
it, and as far as I can tell from the evidence it is a public right-of-way.
The hills above the road are restricted habitat and are clearly signed as
such on the uphill side of the road, away from A8S.
A second trail immediately east of the Residence Inn runs WNW out to the
“Notch”, and is signed for public access, but has signs indicating
restricted access to the A8 shoreline once you get near the water gate on
the east side of A8 proper (I think this is the trail referred to by Ken).
You can get views of A8 from this trail as well. This trail is separated
from the A8S trail/road by a locked gate.
Regards,
Cliff
On Mon, Oct 6, 2025 at 6:37 PM Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Hi birders,
>
> I’ve noticed eBird reports recently from Salt Pond A8. As far as I
> understand it, that pond is closed to the public. If I’m mistaken please
> let us know otherwise.
>
> You can peruse the salt ponds map here:
> https://scvbirdalliance.org/salt-ponds-of-santa-clara-county >
> Brooke Miller
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/6/25 6:37 pm From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Salt Pond A8 Alviso -Closed to the Public
Hi birders,
I’ve noticed eBird reports recently from Salt Pond A8. As far as I understand it, that pond is closed to the public. If I’m mistaken please let us know otherwise.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/6/25 5:45 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Stevens Creek County Park
Hi Everyone!
This morning I birded three of the picnic areas at Stevens Creek CP: Villa Maria, Chestnut and Baytree. The whole park was very active with *Dark-eyed Juncos*, *Oak Titmice*, *White and Golden-crowned Sparrow*s, *Acorn Woodpeckers* and *White-breasted Nuthatches*. But my favorite area was walking along the rim trail starting at Baytree. The berries on the madrones and toyons were attracting *Townsend's Warblers*, *Purple Finches* and *Northern Flickers*. I also spotted a *Yellow Warbler* (unusual for this location) and a *Hutton's Vireo*. And, the *Red-breasted Sapsucker* (I like to think of this bird as Dave Zittin's) returned to the very large Western Sycamore in the center of the Baytree picnic area.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/5/25 1:21 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Yellow Shafted Flicker, Guadalupe River Trail
This morning I birded the Guadalupe River Trail north from Blossom Hill Road. Soon I came across 3 YELLOW WARBLERS and thought this was going to be a good migrant day, but saw no more. I did come across a few YELLOW RUMPED WARBLERS, CEDAR WAXWINGS and some COMMON YELLOWTHROAT. A HERMIT THRUSH and BELTED KINGFISHER was heard only. Three SCALY BREASTED MUNIA were seen in flight.
Eight chattering swifts were seen at the freeway overpass. Between the overpass and the end of the trail a flash of yellow across the creek caught my eye. A YELLOW SHAFTED FLICKER, all notable field marks seen and photographed, was perched in the willows. (photos attached) Bill Bousman told me a Yellow shafted Flicker must have a pure black mustachio mark, a brown face, red crescent on nape and bright yellow under wings and tail. He wrote this on a piece of paper I've kept many years.
I saw nothing of interest on the Chynoweth recharge pond except a few RUDDY DUCKS and a GREAT BLUE HERON. Sparrows were scarce with a few singing WHITE CROWNED SPARROWS and a heard only LINCOLN'S SPARROW, 33 species in all.
Yesterday I birded Edenvale Park where I photographed a WESTERN WOOD PEWEE. photo attached
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/5/25 9:36 am From: Dani Christensen via groups.io <danichristensen1128...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Hermit Warbler, Santa Cruz Mtns
Hi birders!
This morning on a walk I had a HERMIT WARBLER cruising high through the
pines and Doug-firs, calling occasionally & helping me key in on its
constantly-moving location. Unfortunately not chase-able as this is on
private property a couple miles up through locked gates, but wanted to get
the word out so others may catch a glimpse of these fall
migrants elsewhere. I am at about 2000ft elevation, between public parks
Rancho Cañada Del Oro OSP and Uvas Canyon County Park, so I’d try the
higher elevation trails there as it’s similar habitat and close by! At
Rancho Cañada, the parking lot can be so birdy sometimes you might not even
need to hike much.
Other highlights included TOWNSEND’S WARBLER, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER,
singing FOX SPARROW, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and RED-BREASTED SAPSUCKER.
Good luck and happy trails,
Dani Christensen
Morgan Hill
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
It was reported yesterday so I looked for it/them on 10-2-25 early in
the rain and found one close to the road 50-75' from the railroad
tracks. Three more flew in but lost track of them while watching the
closest to the road.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/2/25 10:49 am From: Melanie Barnett via groups.io <mjb2024...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Valley Water notice about maintenance at Los Capitancillos Ponds
Scheduled maintenance that began Sept 29 may temporarily affect water levels in Los Cap and nearby ponds
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/1/25 9:11 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Field Trip to Sunnyvale WPCP, 10-1-2025
Good afternoon, SBBers,
On a particularly cloudy, "it-looks-like its-gonna-rain-any-second" day Dan Bloch and I arrived to greet 7 "not-so-beginner" birders. Thirty-nine species showed up for us, too! Singing, flying here and there, Marsh Wrens peeked at us at the very beginning along with a bunch of overhead feeding Tree and Violet-green Swallows, closely watched by a perched Red-tailed Hawk. A couple of Common Ravens with American Crows flew by, starting a conversation about how to tell them apart. Look at the tail......there will be a test later. A Say's Phoebe showed up from ....? Where *did* this Say's Phoebe come from? From the Great Basin? From the overflow of the local population? From up "North." Hmmmmm....... After being amazed at the great number of distant American White Pelicans, so pretty, showing white, then black and white, then disappearing for a moment we traveled further up the trail, where we could see a smaller bunch of American White Pelicans, sitting and preening on the pipes going across the body of water below WPCP West Pond. Then more birds started to appear on the pipes.....Brown Pelicans appeared, amongst the California Gulls was a Western Gull, Black-necked Stilts landed, Forster's terns floated by, and Double-crested Cormorants coasted in with a big splash. High on a high-voltage tower, a blackbird landed. What *is* that? Bad light, belly to vent view not particularly helpful. Finally, there on the wing of the all black blackbird was a white patch! A Tricolored Blackbird! But, wait.....there's more! A Common Gallinule ducked for cover, some Mallards with 2 Green-winged Teal scooted off the shore at our approach with the finish being a bunch of lounging Greater Yellow-legs, a lone Willet, with a couple more Black-necked Stilts hanging out with them. Black-crowned Herons, Great Egrets, and Snowy Egrets hid-not-so-well in the tules. The Sunnyvale WPCP has instituted methods to keep the assortment of blackbirds, American Crows, and Common Ravens away so they do not become dependent on our waste. But not today! Red-winged Blackbirds, American Crows, Common Ravens with a Eurasian Collared-Dove or two showed great interest in the "food source." Most attendees passed the "Tail Test." And, it did not rain, but got really warm. Many thanks, as always, to Dan, for keeping the ebird list and here it is. https://ebird.org/checklist/S276737391 Keep birding, Vick, co-leader
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/1/25 5:31 am From: Group Notification <noreply...> Subject: [southbaybirds] South Bay Birds Monthly Reminder #guidelines-notice
Thank you for being a member of South Bay Birds [SBB]. This is our monthly reminder sent to the list with information about the group.
South Bay Birds [SBB] is a list intended for reporting the interesting birds you find in Santa Clara county, in order to help your fellow birders see them as well. We encourage everyone to share where they bird and what they see. Please include the general location (e.g., an eBird hotspot) and, if appropriate, the bird(s) of interest in the subject line, with any additional detail needed in the message body. If you use eBird, we encourage you to include a link to the eBird trip report that you filed.
This list is maintained by the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance ( scvbirdalliance.org) ( https://scvbirdalliance.org ). Their volunteers and funding keep the list running so please consider joining or donating to them. SBB's Lead Admin is Jim Dehnert. Chuq Von Rospach, Brooke Miller, Matthew Dodder and Barry Langdon-Lassagne assist Jim. You can contact the administration team with your questions and concerns at southbaybirds+<owner...>
The home site for this list is https://scvbirdalliance.org/siliconvalleybirding and you can find out more about us there. To start sending messages to members of this group, send email to <southbaybirds...>
The birds we watch should be our primary concern. As birders we need to be sensitive to their needs and not do things that put the birds or their habitat at risk.
We believe all birders should act as ethical birders. Your personal year list or that special photograph could put the bird at risk or cause its nest to fail. Because we expect all birders to act ethically around the birds that bring them joy, we expect that of the birders who are on our list as well. We have written up some ideas of what it means to be an ethical birder, and list links to other resources on ethical birding as well. Please read them and act to put the bird’s needs ahead of your own. If we find out that members of the list are putting birds or their habitat at risk, those members may lose access to the mailing list and its resources.
We also believe that members of the list should treat each other properly. If a list member is found to be attacking or harassing other list members, or engaging in activities that violate the ethical birding code it may affect their future ability to contribute to or subscribe to our lists.
*Acceptable Content*
The primary content for SBB is reports of interesting birds you saw and where you saw them ( https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/message/24065 ). The objective ( https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/message/25078 ) is to help other birders interested in the birds you saw to find them themselves. Please include the general location (e.g., an eBird hotspot) and, if appropriate, the bird(s) of interest in the subject line, with any additional detail needed in the message body. Please report only Santa Clara County locations -- other counties have their own mailing lists for trip reports.
Occasionally the administrator will post an Advocacy digest -- no more than once a week, and more typically much less often. This digest contains topics that are not typically posted to the list but we feel are of interest to the readers of SBB and are important enough to warrant posting to the wider audience. These messages will be tagged with the word "Advocacy" in the subject so members who aren't interested can delete or filter them if they choose. Topics posted as Advocacy messages typically include updates on important Advocacy activities by Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance (SCVBA) and SCVBA volunteer activities.
*Unacceptable Content*
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
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South Bay Birds and Birdwatching in Silicon Valley are affiliated with the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance ( scvbirdalliance.org ( https://scvbirdalliance.org ) ), which offers classes and outings around the county, so if you're interested in learning more about birding in the county or joining other birders in going out birding, they can help you find an outing that matches your interests.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/29/25 3:51 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Grant Lake and Ranch
Hi All,
Today I visited Grant Lake and Grant Ranch - I needed some time in the hills. I didn't see anything unusual but did see two Sooty *Fox Sparrows* - that was a first of season for me. Raptor activity was good - a *Golden Eagle*, paired up *Red-tailed Hawks*, *Red-shouldered Hawks*, and *American Kestrels* - also 1 *White-tailed Kite*, 1 *Cooper's Hawk* and 1 *Northern Harrier*.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/29/25 8:33 am From: Sergio M Perez via groups.io <smperezs...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Rose Breasted Grosbeak
The male Rose Breasted continues mostly in my backyard this morning. Spends most of the time at the feeders.I am located on James Place near Dry Creek here in San Jose. Check the ebirdpostings for more detail.If you are interested in finding this bird send me an email to make arrangements.Regards,SergioSent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/29/25 7:53 am From: Ken Mamitsuka via groups.io <ficusyou...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Common Tern
The common term found by Ozzie yesterday is roosting on the west side of the West Island in the north pond. Same general area as yesterday.
> On Sep 28, 2025, at 6:30 PM, Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> wrote:
>
> Still flying around and now resting on the troll island in pond closest to parking lot at Los Gatos Creek County Park.
>
> Brooke Miller
>
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/28/25 7:06 pm From: Subha Mohan via groups.io <scuba_diver_4009...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Trip Report - SCVBA Social Slow Birding Field Trip to Lake Cunningham Regional Park 9.28.25
On this overcast, slightly chilly, yet entirely beautiful fall morning, 13 birders and 4 baby birders banded together for some “social slow birding” fun at Lake Cunningham Regional Park in East San Jose. 30 species delighted us with their presence along the short 0.5 mile round trip on this fully paved, entirely flat, lakeside trail that led us to the base of the park's native garden and back. Highlights included:
A Red-Tailed Hawk that posed extensively for our trip’s photographers
Two Green Herons flying low over the water
A Double-Crested Cormorant that made a splash landing
Several Ruddy Ducks, including a male and female that allowed for side-by-side comparison
A flock of Bushtits close enough to appreciate with the naked eye
A noisy collection of Great-Tailed Grackles up in a tree
Visitors that have officially arrived for the fall and winter season, such as the White-Crowned Sparrows and Yellow-Rumped Warblers
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/28/25 6:31 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Vaux's Swifts passing through Almaden Valley
This morning I watched fifty migrating VAUX'S SWIFTS high overhead from
TJ Martin Park.
After the RED TAILED HAWK left, the birds flew in. Among the many
WESTERN BLUEBIRDS and HOUSE FINCH were YELLOW RUMPED WARBLERS, WHITE
CROWNED SPARROWS, and two CHIPPING SPARROWS.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/28/25 2:34 pm From: jason altus via groups.io <jaltus2...> Subject: [southbaybirds] LGCCP - Common Tern
A Common Tern is currently at the big northernmost pond by the main entrance at Los Gatos Creek County Park. It is now flying around the pond, earlier it was perched on one of the islands for a little while.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/27/25 7:20 pm From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] August Cumulative Bird Report
Folks,
In August we added 4 new countable birds, bringing the total to 266 at the
end of the month. The average for August is 6 new birds, with an average
of 266 at the end of the month. Thank you to everyone who birded, and took
the time to report birds either on SBB, eBird, or send emails directly to
me.
Here are the birds that were found in August:
1. Zone-tailed Hawk (6), 2025-08-06, found by Brooke Johnson at Anderson
Lake County Park—E Dunne Avenue
2. Common Tern (4), 2025-08-14, seen by Mike Rogers at Salt Pond AB1
3. Parasitic Jaeger (5), 2025-08-16, seen by Kaiting H, Kyle Huang, and
Garrett Lau at Salt Ponds AB1 and A2E
4. Solitary Sandpiper (5), 2025-08-16, found by Kaiting H and Kyle Huang at
Charleston Slough/Coast Casey Forebay
As a reminder, here is what each rarity code means:
**Rarity Codes:
1 = common, always seen in habitat in season.
2 = fairly common, usually in habitat in season, but missed sometimes.
3 = uncommon, always around, but sometimes you can't find.
4 = rare, occurs yearly in the county, but not always in same places.
5 = very rare, does not occur every year.
6 = casual or vagrant, generally fewer than 10 records.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 8:29 pm From: Sushanta Bhandarkar via groups.io <sushpb2...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Pectoral sandpipers at Edwards entrance road.
So I noticed that the new walkway was not taped and thought it was open for
use. Saw and photographed the pelicans etc and one of the construction guys
told me it was not ready for use. This was last week. I did mention they
should put the tape and a sign so it looks like they have not done so.
Take care & Stay wild!
*- Sushanta*
+1 408 390 2174
On Fri, Sep 26, 2025 at 2:29 PM hacksoncode via groups.io <hacksoncode=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> In addition to thle pectorals, something else is new here at Don Edwards
> EEC: the new boardwalk to the Mallard slough trail/levee is untaped and
> unsigned, and appears open for use.
>
> Can anyone confirm? Beautiful views of the hundreds of pelicans on the
> islands...
>
> No good views of A18 out here, so I had to settle for distant scope views
> of the Mute Swan from the deck at spot 5.
>
> --
> Ray
>
> On Fri, Sep 26, 2025, 11:52 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
> <cliff_drowley...> wrote:
>
>> There may be four…
>>
>> On Fri, Sep 26, 2025 at 11:51 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
>> <cliff_drowley...> wrote:
>>
>>> I’ve just seen two Pectoral SPs just NE of where the track cross the
>>> entrance road. Two screenshots attached. Slightly down curved bill, light
>>> at base, striping on chest abruptly cut off at belly, yellow legs. Smaller
>>> than GRYE, but noticeably larger than WESA. Approx location
>>> (37.4329515, -121.9623546)
>>> Cliff
>>>
>>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 3:01 pm From: Benjamin Pearl via groups.io <benjaminpearl14...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Pectoral sandpipers at Edwards entrance road.
Hi Ray,
The South San Francisco Bay Shoreline Project just completed construction
of Phase I of the project, so those trails are now open to the public.
Good Birding,
Ben
On Fri, Sep 26, 2025 at 2:29 PM hacksoncode via groups.io <hacksoncode=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> In addition to thle pectorals, something else is new here at Don Edwards
> EEC: the new boardwalk to the Mallard slough trail/levee is untaped and
> unsigned, and appears open for use.
>
> Can anyone confirm? Beautiful views of the hundreds of pelicans on the
> islands...
>
> No good views of A18 out here, so I had to settle for distant scope views
> of the Mute Swan from the deck at spot 5.
>
> --
> Ray
>
> On Fri, Sep 26, 2025, 11:52 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
> <cliff_drowley...> wrote:
>
>> There may be four…
>>
>> On Fri, Sep 26, 2025 at 11:51 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
>> <cliff_drowley...> wrote:
>>
>>> I’ve just seen two Pectoral SPs just NE of where the track cross the
>>> entrance road. Two screenshots attached. Slightly down curved bill, light
>>> at base, striping on chest abruptly cut off at belly, yellow legs. Smaller
>>> than GRYE, but noticeably larger than WESA. Approx location
>>> (37.4329515, -121.9623546)
>>> Cliff
>>>
>>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 2:29 pm From: hacksoncode via groups.io <hacksoncode...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Pectoral sandpipers at Edwards entrance road.
In addition to thle pectorals, something else is new here at Don Edwards
EEC: the new boardwalk to the Mallard slough trail/levee is untaped and
unsigned, and appears open for use.
Can anyone confirm? Beautiful views of the hundreds of pelicans on the
islands...
No good views of A18 out here, so I had to settle for distant scope views
of the Mute Swan from the deck at spot 5.
--
Ray
On Fri, Sep 26, 2025, 11:52 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
<cliff_drowley...> wrote:
> There may be four…
>
> On Fri, Sep 26, 2025 at 11:51 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
> <cliff_drowley...> wrote:
>
>> I’ve just seen two Pectoral SPs just NE of where the track cross the
>> entrance road. Two screenshots attached. Slightly down curved bill, light
>> at base, striping on chest abruptly cut off at belly, yellow legs. Smaller
>> than GRYE, but noticeably larger than WESA. Approx location
>> (37.4329515, -121.9623546)
>> Cliff
>>
>>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 12:44 pm From: Amanda Newlove via groups.io <amandanewlove...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Western Grebes at Calero update
Hi all,
I decided to visit the grebes at Calero reservoir this morning and was pleasantly surprised to find 1 WESTERN GREBE family with 3 babies riding on the backs of the parents. Many other westerns in the flock as usual and 1 CLARK'S GREBE spotted, but only the 1 family with babies that I found.
An interesting behavior I noticed was some of the other (non-parent) grebes wanted to feed the babies feathers like their hormones really wanted them to be parents too. The actual parents protected their young and promptly chased off any strangers.
About 5-6 occurrences of rushing as well during the few hours I was there.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 11:52 am From: Clifford Drowley via groups.io <cliff_drowley...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Pectoral sandpipers at Edwards entrance road.
There may be four…
On Fri, Sep 26, 2025 at 11:51 AM Clifford Drowley via groups.io
<cliff_drowley...> wrote:
> I’ve just seen two Pectoral SPs just NE of where the track cross the
> entrance road. Two screenshots attached. Slightly down curved bill, light
> at base, striping on chest abruptly cut off at belly, yellow legs. Smaller
> than GRYE, but noticeably larger than WESA. Approx location
> (37.4329515, -121.9623546)
> Cliff
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 11:51 am From: Clifford Drowley via groups.io <cliff_drowley...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Pectoral sandpipers at Edwards entrance road.
I’ve just seen two Pectoral SPs just NE of where the track cross the
entrance road. Two screenshots attached. Slightly down curved bill, light
at base, striping on chest abruptly cut off at belly, yellow legs. Smaller
than GRYE, but noticeably larger than WESA. Approx location
(37.4329515, -121.9623546)
Cliff
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/25 9:46 am From: John Harshman via groups.io <john.harshman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Coyote Valley OSP, Sept. 25
The BA/OSA trip to Coyote Valley found 39 species. We had a sweep of the woodpeckers, with acorn, Nuttall's, down, hairy, and flicker (the last heard only). Raptors were also good: Cooper's, red-tailed, and red-shouldered hawks, the latter very annoying, heard constantly but never seen, plus a flyover by a golden eagle. The hot spot was bridge #3, where we found Hutton's vireo, Townsend's warbler, oak titmouse, chestnut-backed chickadee, Nuttall's woodpecker, Anna's hummingbird, and house finch all foraging. The main target species, yellow-billed magpie, was present but distant. There was one Say's phoebe, a few early golden-crowned sparrows, and a short glimpse of two wrentits.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/25/25 4:55 pm From: Dave Weber via groups.io <dwbirdster...> Subject: [southbaybirds] RFI - Dusky Flycatcher and Lewis's Woodpeckers reported at Ed Levin CP.
Dusky Flycatcher and two Lewis 's Woodpeckers were reported from Ed Levin CP in the Sandy Wool/Elm area this morning, Sept 25. No details (descriptions and exact locations) were given. Dusky FC would probably be a county bird for most. The Lewis's WPs were not on the Ebird alert but probably should be. Any further details are appreciated. Thanks,Dave Weber,Milpitasby phone
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/24/25 6:27 pm From: Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding...> Subject: [southbaybirds] BROAD-WINGED HAWK- Hwy17/Summit
Cross posting from MBB due to being on the SCL boundary and with the recent
discussion (telegram) about hawk watching in SCL and SCZ after the big push
of Broad-winged the past couple days up at Hawk Hill. It was a nice stream
of raptors in the same route and altitude. Something that is hard to find
in the area, but I am trying hard to find.
Ryan
*Ryan Phillips* ǀ Owner and Guide
Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
Hi Birders,
After the big push of Broad-winged Hawks up at GGRO Hawk Hill the past
couple days I was determined to find one in SCZ. I did some hawk watching
from Summit off Hwy 17 and there was a nice movement of raptors (very high)
in a N to S direction with the ideal conditions with a scattering of
clouds.
The first kettle I got on was 4 Turkey Vultures with a light juvenile
BROAD-WINGED HAWK (15:20)! A nice movement of Turkey Vultures with an
Osprey and Sharp-shinned Hawk, all during an an hour in the late afternoon.
All the migrating raptors were on the same route and altitude.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/24/25 5:25 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: [southbaybirds] First Day of Fall at Lake Cunningham, 9-21-2025
Hello, Birders, On a nice Sunday, a group of about 28 attendees showed up to see what might be shakin' at Lake Cunningham. Such a big group, so Melanie Barnett, Arvind Kumar, Ashok Jethanandani, and myself cleaved them in half to make things manageable and took off to see what we could find. The "teenaged" Great-tailed Grackles were in moult, needless to say, and looked pretty amusing, but proved to be a good starting point to talk about moult. Many Pied-billed Grebes were seen, some with screaming "teenagers" in hot pursuit. A nice flock of California and Ring-billed Gulls, adults and immature, began gathering early on the lake and very close to the Marina, making identification not so hard. A group of 5 or 7 Snowy Egrets tried hiding from us, but were not successful. A Great Egret and a Great Blue Heron made a stately appearance. Throughout the trip a Yellow-rumped Warbler, Oak Titmouse, Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Black Phoebe, and a group of White-crowned Sparrows added some spice. At the very end of the trip, two Green Herons greeted us at Duck Cove while a Western Grebe showed off by cruising by so attendees could get a good view. Because there were two groups, there are two ebird lists! The ebird list for Melani's group is here https://ebird.org/checklist/S274967312 And the ebird list for Vicki's group is here https://ebird.org/checklist/S274793185
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/24/25 4:02 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA trip to Vasona
Hi Everyone!
Today, Edward Rooks, Ozzie Atlus and I led a SCVBA trip to Vasona. Our highlights were a couple of *Lark Sparrows* in a mixed flock of *White-crowned Sparrows*, *House Finches*, and *Dark-eyed Juncos*. This flock was alongside the road near the entry kiosk and pay station. This is also where we had a *Red-breasted Sapsucker*. The warblers were mostly quiet but we were able to spot a couple of *Yellow-rumped Warblers*, one *Yellow Warbler*, and one *Common Yellowthroat*. We had very nice looks of a *Green Heron* - beautiful birds!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/23/25 4:07 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] FOS Hermit Thrush
Hi Everyone!
This afternoon I visited Belgatos Park and Blossom Hill Park for some shady sit birding. At Belgatos I had 3 FOS *Hermit Thrush* and at Blossom Hill Park, I had a *Townsend's Warbler,* *Brown Creeper *and 3 *Pygmy Nuthatches* (my first sighting of these birds at this park).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/23/25 11:53 am From: jason altus via groups.io <jaltus2...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Probable Palm Warbler
At Lick Mill Park. I didn’t get a good look before losing it, but I saw white tail flashes and a yellowish rump in flight, then saw it pumping its tail up and down after it landed in a tree.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/21/25 12:39 pm From: Dorothy Johnson via groups.io <dfj6281...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Birding Los Cap Ponds
Hi Everyone,
I birded Los Cap Ponds west of Meridian this morning and saw FOS RING-NECKED DUCKS in the 1st pond, ( 1 male, 2 females), and CEDAR WAXWINGS. Also saw VAUX'S SWIFTS and a WHITE-THOATED SWIFT, and lots of GADWALL.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/21/25 12:15 pm From: Bob Reiling via groups.io <rreiling2...> Subject: [southbaybirds] FWIW
All,
No one who is a member of SSB and who tried for the Dark-sided Flycatcher on Saturday (9/19) reported that the bird was not seen. I saw and photograped the bird on Friday but the birder from Arizona didn't see it today (and they knew it had not been reported on e-bird on Saturday. Maybe everyone on SBB is also on e-bird but a maga rarity deserves a no sighting post to SSB.
Take care,
Bob Reiling
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/21/25 9:22 am From: bilal al-shahwany via groups.io <bilal_al_shahwany...> Subject: [southbaybirds] AMERICAN REDSTART still at Ulistac
Seeing it near the location reported earlier 37.4070896, -121.9573724
Also 2 Yellow Warblers, Western Flycatcher and a Black-headed Grosbeak
If you plan to come to Ulistac, please make sure to park near the residential townhouses as all parking along Ulistac is a tow away zone due to the game today
ThanksBilal
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/20/25 2:58 pm From: Dave Weber via groups.io <dwbirdster...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Glasses found at Ulistac, Redstart seen Sept 20.
I found a pair of reading/untinted glasses at Ulistac this morning Sept 20.
They were off the main trail near the north ramp to the levee, so I assume
they belong to a birder. Reply offline if you think they are yours.
Meanwhile, the American Redstart was seen in what I call the 'tree tunnel'
minutes after a Black-throated Gray Warbler was also seen around 11:30 am.
At 12:54 I heard and saw the Redstart again in the tree tunnel. The tree
tunnel is south of the 'Four feet tall and tough' sign. No Blackpoll seen.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/25 1:16 pm From: Chris Johnson via groups.io <ryanjohnson77...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac
Continuing with Chickadees here... race track area. Probably drinks where Eve found it earlier by the levee, but it won't stay there long.
37.4068400, -121.9555861
Chris Johnson
San Jose, CA
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
-------- Original message --------
From: "Chris Johnson via groups.io" <ryanjohnson77...>
Date: 9/19/25 12:02 PM (GMT-08:00)
To: <eve.m.meier...>, South Bay Birds <southbaybirds...>
Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac
Thanks for reporting Eve!
A regular (Julie Rose) told me they had a couple encounters this past week with what they thought was a female Redstart in that general area (near station 5). I tried to locate it, but was not successful.
Chris Johnson
San Jose, CA
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
-------- Original message --------
From: "Eve Meier via groups.io" <eve.m.meier...>
Date: 9/19/25 11:09 AM (GMT-08:00)
To: South Bay Birds <southbaybirds...>
Subject: [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac
Hi All,
I have a female American Redstart at Ulistac. In creek bed (37.4076566, -121.9554295)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/25 1:00 pm From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Dark-sided Flycatcher - Parking
I would like to add on to Kent's email. Ashley from Google came out to the group and welcomed us. Since all the parking lots around there are by permit only, they are allowing much closer parking for birders. So you may want to drive over to the hot spot and look for this special lot for birders.
Lisa Myers Los Gatos Birdwatcher
P.S. If you are in the south bay tomorrow please pop into the Los Gatos Birdwatcher. We are celebrating our 30th Anniversary with food, speakers, coupons, WERC and education.
On 9/19/25 12:33 PM, Kent via groups.io wrote: > > Continues today at Charleston Marsh and across the rosd. > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > *From:* <southbaybirds...> <southbaybirds...> on behalf of > Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> > *Sent:* Friday, September 19, 2025 11:09 AM > *To:* South Bay Birds <southbaybirds...> > *Subject:* [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac > Hi All, > > I have a female American Redstart at Ulistac. In creek bed > (37.4076566, -121.9554295) > > Eve Meier (San Jose) > > > > >
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/25 12:33 pm From: Kent via groups.io <kentjohnson...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Dark-sided Flycatcher
Continues today at Charleston Marsh and across the rosd.
________________________________
From: <southbaybirds...> <southbaybirds...> on behalf of Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...>
Sent: Friday, September 19, 2025 11:09 AM
To: South Bay Birds <southbaybirds...>
Subject: [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac
Hi All,
I have a female American Redstart at Ulistac. In creek bed (37.4076566, -121.9554295)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/25 12:02 pm From: Chris Johnson via groups.io <ryanjohnson77...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac
Thanks for reporting Eve!
A regular (Julie Rose) told me they had a couple encounters this past week with what they thought was a female Redstart in that general area (near station 5). I tried to locate it, but was not successful.
Chris Johnson
San Jose, CA
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
-------- Original message --------
From: "Eve Meier via groups.io" <eve.m.meier...>
Date: 9/19/25 11:09 AM (GMT-08:00)
To: South Bay Birds <southbaybirds...>
Subject: [southbaybirds] Redstart at Ultistac
Hi All,
I have a female American Redstart at Ulistac. In creek bed (37.4076566, -121.9554295)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 3:23 pm From: Mark Sawyer via groups.io <marksawyer3383...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
I can’t see the photo?
On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 1:50 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> The picture did not go through. I am trying again.
>
> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 1:44 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> It might be a Dark-sided Flycatcher. Here is a back-of-camera photo.
>>
>> Garrett Lau
>>
>> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:51 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>>> Thanks for the picture. I saw the bird a minute ago, but I can’t tell
>>> what it is.
>>>
>>> Garrett Lau
>>>
>>> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:29 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>>> Here’s our ebird list with very bad photos of the flycatcher:
>>>> https://ebird.org/checklist/S273917582 >>>>
>>>> Eve
>>>>
>>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:55 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> We have some very bad photos that we will upload once we’re home.
>>>>
>>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:23 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>>
>>>> Hi Everyone!
>>>>
>>>> Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s
>>>> our field marks:
>>>>
>>>> Small flycatcher
>>>>
>>>> Flat, not peaked head
>>>>
>>>> Very small bill
>>>>
>>>> Eye ring more prominent in the back
>>>>
>>>> Gray overall
>>>>
>>>> Wing bars?
>>>>
>>>> Long primaries not quite to tail
>>>>
>>>> Slightly forked tail
>>>>
>>>> Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
>>>>
>>>> Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>>>>
>>>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 2:28 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Charleston Marsh - parking (Dark-sided Flycatcher)
Hi All,
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the area, I've been parking at a google public lot: 37.424407, -122.079069. The coordinates for the bird are: 37.421207, -122.073325.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 2:11 pm From: bobhirt2004 via groups.io <Bobhirt...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Guadalupe River trail
While waiting for my carpet cleaners, from my front porch, I watched between 7 and 10 Scaly-breasted Munia’s visit my feeders at the corner of Almaden Lake Drive and Fairhope Place. This is about 1/4 mile (6 very short blocks) up Almaden Lake Drive from Winfield (Almaden Lake- east entrance).
They are here daily.
Bob
Bob Hirt
6054 Fairhope Pl.
San Jose, CA
(408) 821-2732
Please excuse the brevity, the typos, and the sometimes humorous autocorrect changes.
> On Sep 17, 2025, at 1:45 PM, janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> wrote:
>
> We had our fos GOLDEN CROWNED SPARROW in the yard today. A nearby WESTERN TANAGER continues to call each morning.
>
> The Guadalupe River Trail from Coleman Road to the Valley Water spillway was very birdy this morning. I had 30 species in the short span, including 12 COMMON YELLOWTHROAT, 3 MUNIA and 1 YELLOW WARBLER.
>
> I heard CAL. QUAIL north of Coleman Road for the first time and saw my fos WHITE CROWNED SPARROW. An OSPREY circled overhead as I left the trail at 10 am.
>
> Photo attached of backyard PYGMY NUTHATCH at fountain.
>
> Janna Pauser
> Almaden Valley
>
>
>
>
>
> <Pygmy Nuthatch at fountain 2. JPG.JPG>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 1:50 pm From: Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
The picture did not go through. I am trying again.
On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 1:44 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> It might be a Dark-sided Flycatcher. Here is a back-of-camera photo.
>
> Garrett Lau
>
> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:51 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> Thanks for the picture. I saw the bird a minute ago, but I can’t tell
>> what it is.
>>
>> Garrett Lau
>>
>> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:29 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>>> Here’s our ebird list with very bad photos of the flycatcher:
>>> https://ebird.org/checklist/S273917582 >>>
>>> Eve
>>>
>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:55 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>> We have some very bad photos that we will upload once we’re home.
>>>
>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:23 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>> Hi Everyone!
>>>
>>> Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s our
>>> field marks:
>>>
>>> Small flycatcher
>>>
>>> Flat, not peaked head
>>>
>>> Very small bill
>>>
>>> Eye ring more prominent in the back
>>>
>>> Gray overall
>>>
>>> Wing bars?
>>>
>>> Long primaries not quite to tail
>>>
>>> Slightly forked tail
>>>
>>> Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
>>>
>>> Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
>>>
>>>
>>> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>>>
>>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 1:48 pm From: Chris Henry via groups.io <birdingwithchris...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
Western Wood Pewee?
On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 1:44 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> It might be a Dark-sided Flycatcher. Here is a back-of-camera photo.
>
> Garrett Lau
>
> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:51 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> Thanks for the picture. I saw the bird a minute ago, but I can’t tell
>> what it is.
>>
>> Garrett Lau
>>
>> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:29 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>>> Here’s our ebird list with very bad photos of the flycatcher:
>>> https://ebird.org/checklist/S273917582 >>>
>>> Eve
>>>
>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:55 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>> We have some very bad photos that we will upload once we’re home.
>>>
>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:23 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>> Hi Everyone!
>>>
>>> Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s our
>>> field marks:
>>>
>>> Small flycatcher
>>>
>>> Flat, not peaked head
>>>
>>> Very small bill
>>>
>>> Eye ring more prominent in the back
>>>
>>> Gray overall
>>>
>>> Wing bars?
>>>
>>> Long primaries not quite to tail
>>>
>>> Slightly forked tail
>>>
>>> Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
>>>
>>> Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
>>>
>>>
>>> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>>>
>>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 1:47 pm From: Joe Heinlein via groups.io <Jgheinlein...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
No attachment, Garrett.
On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 1:44 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> It might be a Dark-sided Flycatcher. Here is a back-of-camera photo.
>
> Garrett Lau
>
> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:51 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> Thanks for the picture. I saw the bird a minute ago, but I can’t tell
>> what it is.
>>
>> Garrett Lau
>>
>> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:29 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>>> Here’s our ebird list with very bad photos of the flycatcher:
>>> https://ebird.org/checklist/S273917582 >>>
>>> Eve
>>>
>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:55 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>> We have some very bad photos that we will upload once we’re home.
>>>
>>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:23 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>> Hi Everyone!
>>>
>>> Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s our
>>> field marks:
>>>
>>> Small flycatcher
>>>
>>> Flat, not peaked head
>>>
>>> Very small bill
>>>
>>> Eye ring more prominent in the back
>>>
>>> Gray overall
>>>
>>> Wing bars?
>>>
>>> Long primaries not quite to tail
>>>
>>> Slightly forked tail
>>>
>>> Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
>>>
>>> Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
>>>
>>>
>>> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>>>
>>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 1:45 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Guadalupe River trail
We had our fos GOLDEN CROWNED SPARROW in the yard today. A nearby
WESTERN TANAGER continues to call each morning.
The Guadalupe River Trail from Coleman Road to the Valley Water spillway
was very birdy this morning. I had 30 species in the short span,
including 12 COMMON YELLOWTHROAT, 3 MUNIA and 1 YELLOW WARBLER.
I heard CAL. QUAIL north of Coleman Road for the first time and saw my
fos WHITE CROWNED SPARROW. An OSPREY circled overhead as I left the
trail at 10 am.
Photo attached of backyard PYGMY NUTHATCH at fountain.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 1:44 pm From: Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
It might be a Dark-sided Flycatcher. Here is a back-of-camera photo.
Garrett Lau
On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:51 PM Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Thanks for the picture. I saw the bird a minute ago, but I can’t tell what
> it is.
>
> Garrett Lau
>
> On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:29 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> Here’s our ebird list with very bad photos of the flycatcher:
>> https://ebird.org/checklist/S273917582 >>
>> Eve
>>
>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:55 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>>
>> We have some very bad photos that we will upload once we’re home.
>>
>> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:23 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>> Hi Everyone!
>>
>> Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s our
>> field marks:
>>
>> Small flycatcher
>>
>> Flat, not peaked head
>>
>> Very small bill
>>
>> Eye ring more prominent in the back
>>
>> Gray overall
>>
>> Wing bars?
>>
>> Long primaries not quite to tail
>>
>> Slightly forked tail
>>
>> Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
>>
>> Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
>>
>>
>> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>>
>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 12:51 pm From: Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
Thanks for the picture. I saw the bird a minute ago, but I can’t tell what
it is.
Garrett Lau
On Wed, Sep 17, 2025 at 12:29 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Here’s our ebird list with very bad photos of the flycatcher:
> https://ebird.org/checklist/S273917582 >
> Eve
>
> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:55 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>
> We have some very bad photos that we will upload once we’re home.
>
> On Sep 17, 2025, at 10:23 AM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
> Hi Everyone!
>
> Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s our
> field marks:
>
> Small flycatcher
>
> Flat, not peaked head
>
> Very small bill
>
> Eye ring more prominent in the back
>
> Gray overall
>
> Wing bars?
>
> Long primaries not quite to tail
>
> Slightly forked tail
>
> Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
>
> Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
>
>
> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/17/25 10:23 am From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Mystery Flycatcher at Charleston Marsh
Hi Everyone!
Patricia and I have a mystery flycatcher at Charleston Marsh. Here’s our field marks:
Small flycatcher
Flat, not peaked head
Very small bill
Eye ring more prominent in the back
Gray overall
Wing bars?
Long primaries not quite to tail
Slightly forked tail
Streaky upper breast, white belly, throat was lighter
Perched up high in dead branches here 37.4211198, -122.0729803
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/14/25 6:21 pm From: Matthew Dodder via groups.io <mdodder...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Water District 9-13-25
Cricket and I birded the Water District on Almaden Expressway yesterday. It was fairly quiet, but we did have several Yellow Warblers along the trail. There was an active group of 7 Scaly-breasted Munias moving along the creek but focused in the area by the dam. Not surprising, but new to us for the season were four White-crowned Sparrows below the dam. A single Green Heron flushed from the shore and was seen again near the island. At least one Belted Kingfisher, a male, was seen. We spotted possible second bird elsewhere, but couldn’t be sure it was a different individual. There was an out-of-town birding tour spending the last few hours at the site before heading home.
Matthew Dodder (he/him)
Executive Director
Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
22221 McClellan Rd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-252-3748
<director...> <mailto:<director...> scvbirdalliance.org <http://scvbirdalliance.org/> 
Matthew Dodder (he/him)
Executive Director
Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
22221 McClellan Rd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-252-3748
<director...>
scvbirdalliance.org
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/14/25 11:31 am From: <director...> via groups.io <director...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Water District 9-13-25
Cricket and I birded the Water District on Almaden Expressway yesterday. It was fairly quiet, but we did have several Yellow Warblers along the trail. There was an active group of 7 Scaly-breasted Munias moving along the creek but focused in the area by the dam. Not surprising, but new to us for the season were four White-crowned Sparrows below the dam. A single Green Heron flushed from the shore and was seen again near the island. At least one Belted Kingfisher, a male, was seen. We spotted possible second bird elsewhere, but couldn’t be sure it was a different individual. There was an out-of-town birding tour spending the last few hours at the site before heading home.
Matthew Dodder (he/him)
Executive Director
Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
22221 McClellan Rd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-252-3748
<director...>
scvbirdalliance.org
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/14/25 11:15 am From: Matthew Dodder via groups.io <mdodder...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Alviso area 9-14-25
I birded New Chicago Marsh for a bit this morning, mostly to see if the second Ruff (Reeve) was still present. I only saw one Ruff and I believe it is the same one I saw last week, presumably the male.
The gate to the EEC was still closed and time was short so I drove to the Gold Street Bridge to search the fennel patch beside the power lines. There were several migrant Yellow Warblers there and what seemed like a crowd of Common Yellowthroats. No other species of note showed themselves.
Along Alviso Slough near the yacht club there were several Elegant Terns perched on the concrete slabs in A8 along with Forster’s Terns and Double-crested Cormorants. In the distance, both Brown Pelicans and American White Pelicans were visible feeding in the pond. A single Lesser Scaup was swimming with numerous Coots.
Speaking of Coots, we went to Bass Pro Shops yesterday and I found a Coot decoy in the hunting area. I hadn’t realized it before, but apparently the presence of Coots in a pond signals other waterfowl that food is abundant and it is safe to land… So the Coot is called, at least by some hunters, a "Confidence Bird” and they place the decoys to attract the Ducks they are interested in.
Finally, I stopped along the Bay Trail behind the Residence Inn by Marriot along the Guadalupe River. I was hoping to find a Willow Flycatcher in the abundant fennel patch. No luck with that, but lots of White-throated Swifts were foraging high overhead, along with Violet-green Swallows, and the Elegant Terns could still be heard over the large pond.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
