Date: 5/8/25 5:13 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Ground Dove (1 report)
- Hawaiian Petrel (3 reports)
- Cook's Petrel (6 reports)
- Bank Swallow (1 report)
- Sage Thrasher (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported May 07, 2025 12:14 by John Callender
- Lake Jocelyn, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.4772805&<ll...>,-119.4772805 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234374492 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "One bird flying with the swallow flock low over the lake. Smaller and slightly less graceful in flight than Northern Rough-winged Swallow. Relatively light brown back slightly but noticeably contrasting with darker brown of the upper wings. White throat and distinct brown breast band seen well through binoculars. Could only get poor but possibly helpful photos."
Sage Thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported May 07, 2025 08:59 by Patty Enger
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234416326 - Comments: "Was moving along the road near the large grassy area where the yellow-headed blackbirds were seen. Gray above, streaked below, shortish bill."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/8/25 3:33 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] West Camino Cielo May 8
Today I walked a portion of West Camino Cielo that I have been checking annually since the Sherpa/Whittier fires. It has been interesting to watch how the vegetation has regrown and the bird population afterwards has evolved. The main bird of interest has been Black-chinned Sparrow. It was surmised that their numbers would be high in the first couple of years after the burn; then gradually decrease as chaparral get thicker, but that has not been the case here. In the approximately 1.5 miles that I walked today, I had at least 7 Blackchins either in sight or singing. I think this is more than I had last year at this time.
Also present in good numbers today were Lazuli Buntings (9, most of them males), not quite the number I had the year immediately after the fire--I think I counted 28 in this same section then. Other birds of interest were a single Chipping Sparrow, at least 1 singing Rufous-crowned Sparrow, 2 Hermit Warblers, 3 Townsend's Warblers, and one Mountain Quail calling down in a canyon below the road. I had no Swallows or Swifts overhead, which is unusual for this location. I also did not turn up a Costa's hummingbird, but I think the lack of some of the flowers that are usually in bloom here may account for the absence.
As for the flowers, Ceanothus and Bush Poppy are making a nice show, but blooming annuals were few and many perennials that hummingbirds like (Woolly Blue Curls, Pitcher Sage) were still in bud.
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) (1)
- Reported May 07, 2025 09:59 by David Blue
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234351110 - Comments: "A small brownish empid with essentially no eye-ring. Seen just beyond the west end of the Marsh Trail at the Devereux Creek Trailhead where the trail heads south up the hill."
Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) (1)
- Reported May 07, 2025 09:59 by Linda Blue
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234351111 - Comments: "A small brownish empid with essentially no eye-ring. Seen just beyond the west end of the Marsh Trail at the Devereux Creek Trailhead where the trail heads south up the hill."
Sage Thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) (1)
- Reported May 07, 2025 09:59 by David Blue
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234351110 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "First observed here by Lynn Scarlett earlier this morning. Compared to a California Thrasher, this was a smaller thrasher, with a much shorter, thinner, and slightly down-curved bill. The upperparts were grayish brown with thin white wingbars, and the underparts had black streaking on the throat, breast, and flanks with a buffy wash on the belly and sides. Seen on the fence and the ground at the east side of the mesa where the trail splits near here: (34.4188742, -119.8785884)"
Sage Thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) (1)
- Reported May 07, 2025 09:59 by Linda Blue
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234351111 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "First observed here by Lynn Scarlett earlier this morning. Compared to a California Thrasher, this was a smaller thrasher, with a much shorter, thinner, and slightly down-curved bill. The upperparts were grayish brown with thin white wingbars, and the underparts had black streaking on the throat, breast, and flanks with a buffy wash on the belly and sides. Seen on the fence and the ground at the east side of the mesa where the trail splits near here: (34.4188742, -119.8785884)"
Sage Thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) (1)
- Reported May 07, 2025 07:45 by Lynn Scarlett
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S234315484 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "on wood chip road running through meadow above the estuary and where the burrowing owl was released; upright posture, straight, fairly short bill, grayish back, streaky breast, yellow-orange eye (see photos)"
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/6/25 5:37 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Recent birds of minor interest
All I had both Wilson's and RN Phalaropes in the NCOS/Devereux area a couple of e evenings ago. Today there was another RN Phalarope and 2 Ruddy Turnstones at Ocean Park. A YH Blackbird was in the corral by the start of the entrance road there.
Nick Lethaby
Goleta, CA
<nlethaby...>
+1 805 284 6200
Date: 5/6/25 3:33 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Lake Jocelyn May 6
I returned to Lake Jocelyn this morning and observed a great Swallow show, but alas, no Bank Swallow in the mix. The birds were actively feeding over the pond, coming down to the water and dipping their beaks in multiple passes. After a while, they would go to the utility wires behind the willows and preen, allowing good views through binoculars. The majority were Cliff Swallows, but I also counted at least 4 Rough-winged Swallows, 4 Barn Swallows, and a single Violet-green Swallow. Also overhead were several Vaux's Swifts, one of which also came down to the water's surface.
The Red-necked Phalarope and Spotted Sandpipers I found yesterday were not present this morning, but the Ring-necked Ducks continue. I also heard Common Ground-doves again, calling from the orchard high on the hill to the east.
Florence Sanchez
(PS--I also visited NCOS this morning and along with Conor McMahon; looked for the Cattle Egret in the upper area where it has been reported. We did not turn it up today.)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by Steve Mayo
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233620233 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by Phil Rusch
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233577960 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/5/25 3:30 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Lake Jocelyn May 5
I birded Lake Jocelyn this morning in the hope of turning up the Bank Swallows so nicely-photographed by John Callander last week. Though there was a lot of Swallow activity over the pond, I did not pull out a Bank Swallow from the mix. With the swallow storm were a few Vaux's Swifts.
Waterfowl on the pond included a pair of Canada Geese, two male Mallards, two late-ish male Ring-necked Ducks and a pair of Pied-billed Grebes. The only shorebirds around the pond were two Spotted Sandpipers, actively chasing each other back and forth and all around the pond; and an unexpected RED-NECKED PHALAROPE.
I also kept hearing the distinctive call of a Common Ground-Dove from the top of the hill to the east of the pond. There are orchards aplenty up there so the habitat is right; however, I don't recall having heard them before in Carpinteria.
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Common Ground Dove (Columbina passerina) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported May 04, 2025 06:26 by Eunice Schroeder
- Farren Road, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.9237752&<ll...>,-119.9237752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233128066 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Known location. Heard sequence of rising coo notes about 50 feet south of gate, and also here: (34.451023,-119.921982) and here: (34.455028,-119.923455), each time coming from the east side."
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by Jan Hamilton-Sherwonit
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233285155 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by Abby Sesselberg
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233546627 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by David Mathieu
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233532445 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by James Sherwonit
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233192130 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
Western Cattle-Egret (Ardea ibis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported May 04, 2025 14:24 by Dane St George
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233233763 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Presumably the same bird found this morning by Lynn Scarlett. Feeding on edge of pond to the west of Phelps bridge. Will add photo."
Western Cattle-Egret (Ardea ibis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported May 04, 2025 09:00 by Lynn Scarlett
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233189865 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "In meadow near Veneco bridge; stocky, small egret with shortish, thickish yellow-orange bill; light orange-ish blush on head--see (poor) photos; also seen by 5 others"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/4/25 2:14 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] White-faced Ibis, Cattle Egret at NCOS
Good looking breeding plumage White-faced Ibis and distant views of a breeding plumage Cattle Egret at NCOS this morning. Both originally found by Lynn Scarlett. When last seen t he Ibis was in the small pond at the south end of the main bridge while the Egret was on an island in the middle of the slough.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Cook's Petrel (Pterodroma cookii) (6)
- Reported May 01, 2025 06:15 by John Amoroso
- Auto selected 33.39212, -121.35981, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.359813&<ll...>,-121.359813 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S232651094 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Multiple observers. Small petrel, gray cap with light eyebrow, white underwing outlined dark, white belly and undertail, gray above with M pattern on wing. Photo and video."
Cook's Petrel (Pterodroma cookii) (6)
- Reported May 01, 2025 06:15 by Brad Benter
- Auto selected 33.39212, -121.35981, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.359813&<ll...>,-121.359813 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S233004739 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Multiple observers. Small petrel, gray cap with light eyebrow, white underwing outlined dark, white belly and undertail, gray above with M pattern on wing. Photo and video."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported May 03, 2025 08:30 by Lynn Scarlett
- Goleta Beach County Park (including east end of Goleta Slough), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.829812&<ll...>,-119.829812 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S232684901 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "continuing--see photo; standing on small island to west of bridge; gray back, striped black and white face"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/3/25 2:48 pm From: Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> Subject: [sbcobirding] 3 Swainson's Hawks above Riviera
Around 1:30pm, 3 Swainson's Hawks migrated through. Higher up towards clouds, pointy, sculpted wings and narrower, longish tail. Little flapping, just gliding straight northwest.
--
Ron Hirst
Santa Barbara
Date: 5/3/25 1:56 pm From: Hugh Ranson via groups.io <zonetail1...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Santa Cruz Island
On Wednesday, April 30th, Mark Bright and I birded the Prisoners Harbor area. There were surprisingly few migrants. We came up with a Virginia's Rail calling from reeds along the creek, and a Saw-whet Owl that called from willows at noon. Many years ago on the island I also heard Saw-whets calling in broad daylight; I haven't experienced this elsewhere.
We hiked to Del Norte Campground where we spent the night. At least 2 Saw-whets were calling here.
The next day, May 1st, we hiked to Scorpion Anchorage. We saw many Island-Scrub Jays along the way. On the way down to Scorpion we saw an adult Golden-crowned Sparrow.
On May 2nd there were a decent number of migrants in the Lower Campground at Scorpion; these were mostly attracted to eucalyptus blooms. We saw Black-headed Grosbeaks; Bullock's and Hooded Orioles; Western Tanager; Warbling Vireo; and Hermit, Yellow-rumped, and Yellow Warblers. Birds of prey included Bald Eagle, Merlin, and Peregrine.
The channel was pretty quiet apart from a few (paired) Scripps's Murrelets, Red-necked Phalaropes, and a couple of hundred Sooty Shearwaters.
Date: 5/3/25 1:10 pm From: Peter Gaede via groups.io <peteragaede...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Carp Creek cont
Just an FYI, nothing rare but good numbers of common migrants that seem to have been tough to find in general around SB lately. Double digit black-headed grosbeaks and Wilson’s warblers. Nine laz buntings, one olive-sided flycatcher, a couple of Nashvilles, western tanagers, and w. wood-pewees.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported May 01, 2025 16:47 by John Callender
- Lake Jocelyn, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.4772805&<ll...>,-119.4772805 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S232148358 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "[16:57] White throat with distinct breast band. Brownish back was distinctly lighter in the middle and darker on the wings in comparison with Northern Rough-winged Swallows. Wings noticeably narrower and wingbeats noticeably faster than Northern Rough-winged swallow.
[17:53] Later I saw two at the same time."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/2/25 2:16 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Buntings and Grosbeaks
Wes,
My impression is that there have not been many WEFL in Refugio this spring. The species presumably breeds there but I haven't heard more than a couple singing in a single day. I also had one bird pass through the migrant watchpoint point.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Sent from Proton Mail Android
-------- Original Message -------- On 4/30/25 11:33 PM, Wes Fritz via groups.io wrote:
> SB Birders, > > I witnessed the same thing today as Cruz and George did today. I have been birding the SYV and the foothills up to Cachuma Camp, with some time on Alisal and Refugio. > I agree the numbers of Laz Buntings have gone 3 fold over the last few days. The BH Grosbeaks have doubled along with Ash-throated Flycstchers. Also, the Western Kingbirds are in the highest numbers in the last few years. The Fiddleneck Flowes are just kinda getting started so Lawrence’s Goldfinch are starting to pair up and their number are increasing everyday. They still are fairly scarce and I have been staking out water sources to find them. The rarest or the noteworthy birds of today were 10 Great-tailed Grackles moving up Happy Canyon and were observed at 7900 Happy Canyon Road. There still is a slow and steady movement of Vaux’s Swifts. > Yesterday saw Florence as she was coming down from her trip up to Cachuma Camping area while I was going up. Today we hit up the cattle troughs for Lawrence’s Goldfinch and then moved over to Cruzita Ranch. As we arrived Cruz and George were headed out for their birding. > I have been out for the last 5 days, birding all day in the north county and there is definitely a good uptick in migrants. > Has anybody noticed lower numbers of Western/Pac Slope Flycatchers. > > Good birding. > > Wes Fritz > 805 895 0685 > <wes-fritz...> > Solvang CA > >> On Apr 30, 2025, at 9:53 PM, Cruz Phillips via groups.io <cruzitas...> wrote: > >> >> Continuing on the Bunting thread...George and I took a drive up Happy Canyon to Cachuma Creek today. We found three flocks of 8, 15+, and 30+ Lazuli Buntings along with several more individuals for a total of 59+ Lazuli Buntings. >> >> We also had a flock of 25+ Black-headed Grosbeaks, the largest single group I have ever seen. They were at the second seep after the old shooting spot. The seep also had Seep Monkeyflower, a beautiful large bright yellow Monkey flower. And 4 Lawrence's Goldfinches, a bird I have not been seeing a lot of this spring. >> >> Other fun birds at the creek included Hermit Warblers, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Western Tanager, W. Wood Pewee, Ash-throated Fly, Pac slope Fly, Warbling Vireo, lots of calling Mountain Quail, and a Swainson's Thrush. Plus all the other expected resident birds including Golden Eagle. Some nice flowers too including plenty of Globe Lilies hiding in the shade. >> >> Came home to 2 Black-headed Grosbeaks and Lazuli Buntings in the yard. The two Yellow-headed Blackbirds are continuing to stick around with the other blackbirds. >> >> Cruz Phillips >> Las Cruzitas Ranch >> Santa Ynez > >
Date: 5/2/25 11:58 am From: David Levasheff via groups.io <dcl5277...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Yellow-headed Blackbird
6 females at Goleta beach. Straight in from the entrance road. On the beach side chain link fence, below as well on the beach in the greenery and in the South African tree with red blooms. Also at least 3 Western Tanagers in the bottle brush trees at the ranger’s residence.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Red-billed Tropicbird (Phaethon aethereus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 10:15 by Matthew Bell
- CAS Nieuw Amsterdam 2025 2.5, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.879505&<ll...>,-121.879505 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S231824668 - Comments: "34.85388° N, 121.99289° W. Spotted by David M., first on water and then high above where it eventually flew over the boat. Snappy wing beats with black primaries, long tail, and red bill. Photos by many"
Tyrannus with bright yellow belly, green back, forked tail, big bill. Maybe one of the two that seems to have wintered around here."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported May 01, 2025 09:59 by Toby Fowler
- Mesa Rd. at Los Carneros Rd.--SW, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.86055&<ll...>,-119.86055 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S231742199 - Comments: "Tyrannus with bright yellow belly, green back, forked tail, big bill. Actively flycatching in the big tree at the corner (34.421673, -119.860327). Maybe one of the two that seems to have wintered around here.
Because their movement northwards is so recent, I wonder if there is any data on those individual's migration patterns. They seem to clear out of the county by early May, but I wonder if we get any northern individuals passing through on their way back down to their breeding range. According to Ebird's status and trends data, the only consistent population north of here is the bay area (and maybe some up in Oregon), so I wonder where those birds travel through. The Oregon birds seem to be early migrants down.
Regardless, it's cool that we get a neotropic breeder, so that its migration is the reverse of all our other species!"
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 5/1/25 7:15 pm From: Patrick McNulty via groups.io <mcnulty...> Subject: [sbcobirding] McGillivray's Warbler - Sansum Pesetas north entrance path to parking lot yesterday
McGillivray's Warbler - Sansum Pesetas north entrance pathto parking lot (34.442972, -119.759139).
Yesterday, April 30, at about 11:50 AM.
There is a sidewalk extending from the main entrance northto the parking lot. Perhaps 20 yards down this sidewalk, there is a bench on theleft. I was leaning against a stanchion across from this bench, and the birdpopped up from behind the hedge behind the bench, looked around for eight orten seconds and then dropped back down behind the hedge. I was very surprised but otherwise involved at the time. By the time I was able to move cautiouslyaround and look on the other side of the hedge, all was quiet.
I was able to get back there from about 5:10 until 6:30tonight, Thursday night, but found nothing except a lot of juncos and somefinches and crows.
However, that hedge is not exactly a Santa Barbara hotspot.And I think there are at least a couple of places within a few hundred yards ofthere that have attracted and then held some interesting birds in the past.Maybe some of the veterans of this list can suggest some other spots in thatimmediate area that might be worth checking.
Patrick McNultymcnulty at gte dot net805-455-2119Northern Southern Cal
Date: 5/1/25 12:15 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Figueroa Mountain - Buntings, Pygmy Owl, Swainson's Hawk
I drove up the east side of Figueroa and stopped at Ranger Peak. The Lazuli Bunting show continued with at a very minimum 70 birds between De La Guerra springs trail head and the peak. The heaviest concentration was the last mile or so as I approached the peak. At one point on the way up I had at least a dozen Western Tanager in a single tree. Best birds of the day were a Northern Pygmy Owl I heard calling off the side of the road just above Cachuma Saddle and a Swainson's Hawk harassed by an American Crow at Gainy Vineyard.
Date: 5/1/25 6:14 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Orchard Oriole (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (2)
- Reported Apr 30, 2025 09:05 by John Callender
- Santa Monica Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5278168&<ll...>,-119.5278168 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S231235111 - Comments: "Adult male continuing in the Cape Town cycle hedge south of the footbridge. Small to medium sized oriole, extensive black hood, deep oak her body. Second bird was not seen but was heard singing and calling from a separate location at the same time I was observing the first bird. I assume these are the same two adult males continuing in this location."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/30/25 9:53 pm From: Cruz Phillips via groups.io <cruzitas...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Buntings and Grosbeaks
Continuing on the Bunting thread...George and I took a drive up Happy Canyon to Cachuma Creek today. We found three flocks of 8, 15+, and 30+ Lazuli Buntings along with several more individuals for a total of 59+ Lazuli Buntings.
We also had a flock of 25+ Black-headed Grosbeaks, the largest single group I have ever seen. They were at the second seep after the old shooting spot. The seep also had Seep Monkeyflower, a beautiful large bright yellow Monkey flower. And 4 Lawrence's Goldfinches, a bird I have not been seeing a lot of this spring.
Other fun birds at the creek included Hermit Warblers, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Western Tanager, W. Wood Pewee, Ash-throated Fly, Pac slope Fly, Warbling Vireo, lots of calling Mountain Quail, and a Swainson's Thrush. Plus all the other expected resident birds including Golden Eagle. Some nice flowers too including plenty of Globe Lilies hiding in the shade.
Came home to 2 Black-headed Grosbeaks and Lazuli Buntings in the yard. The two Yellow-headed Blackbirds are continuing to stick around with the other blackbirds.
Cruz PhillipsLas Cruzitas RanchSanta Ynez
Date: 4/30/25 5:36 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Lazuli Buntings
The count I had a Refugio on Monday was I think 3x what I had ever had before. My theory is that the large fires that have been occurring in No Cal and OR are creating a lot of habitat for them. It may not be a coincidence that we have had record numbers of Lawrence's Goldfinches and Lazuil Buntings this spring since both love to breed in recently burned areas.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Date: 4/30/25 10:18 am From: Linus Blomqvist via groups.io <linus.blomqvist...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Sign up for the Cuyama Spring Bird Survey
Hi all,
Since this message was easily missed in my last missive about Cuyama bird surveys, I wanted to remind everyone that it's time to sign up for the Cuyama Spring Bird Survey, which takes place on May 17-18. Expected species include Scott's Oriole, Lesser Nighthawk, Black-chinned Sparrow, Cassin's Vireo, Black-throated Sparrow, Brewer's Sparrow, and California Condor (we've had them on 2/3 surveys). Last year a Gray Vireo showed up in Cuyama Valley in spring, so who knows what surprises we might get!
Email me (do not reply-all here) or message me on slack to sign up. I still have plenty of spots available. If you can't do the weekend of May 17-18, but one of the weekends before or after, let me know - you could still contribute to the survey.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
American Pipit (Anthus rubescens) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 29, 2025 07:16 by Conor McMahon
- UCSB North Campus Open Space (formerly Ocean Meadows Golf Course), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8792197&<ll...>,-119.8792197 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230891643 - Comments: "Pipits. Bouncy distinctive walk, white tail edges, distinctive pip pip calls in flight. A small group of at least 3 (maybe more? a lot of movement) on the Mesa grassland. I guess these are getting late."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Nice activity overall at NCOS this morning during the CCBER survey. I think our most noteworthy birds were two Yellow-headed Blackbirds (a male and a female) which we saw early in the survey but then did not re-sight over the next few hours as we moved through other parts of the reserve, so not sure if they stuck around.
We also had a White-faced Ibis, a Bonaparte's Gull, and a singing Lazuli Bunting. On the grassland there were still good numbers of "normal" Savannah Sparrows, a single remaining Western Meadowlark, and some apparently now late (flagged on eBird) American Pipits. We had some suggestive-of-breeding activity from Song Sparrows, a Gadwall, and Starlings. At least 5 different Belding's Savannah Sparrows singing from various spots in the Salicornia.
According to Lisa the water stage at the Veneco Rd. meter hasn't moved very appreciably since this weekend. I thought the rain might blow out the slough mouth but seems like it's holding, so maybe the Slough will stay wet relatively late in the year again.
We also saw a Great-tailed Grackle female flying over COPR. That species seems (to me) like they've been doing really well across the area the last couple years, I assume because of increases in the amount of actually wet wetland area in the breeding season following recovery from the 2012-2016 drought. I see multiple every time I go by Los Carneros x Mesa for example. I'm curious if they've bred at Dune Pond or NCOS in the past? Lehman's book mentions several known breeding colonies including LLC, but not the Devereux/NCOS system. A friend saw a male displaying at Dune Pond yesterday - might be interesting to keep an eye out there for nesting activity.
On Saturday at UCSB I had a Wandering Tattler at Campus Point (maybe the same bird Nick and Florence saw Sunday and Monday?), plus a decent assemblage of expected migrants, including Bullock's and Hooded Orioles, Western Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak, Wilson's and Yellow Warblers. Most of the migrant activity on campus was in the eucalyptus near Student Health. Lots of breeding activity by Song Sparrow and Juncos, with decent numbers of fledged Juncos already across campus.
Date: 4/29/25 3:09 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Birding at East Pinery Road and Cachuma Camp, April 29
I headed for East Pinery Road this morning and luckily did not find the cold conditions Peter S. reported yesterday for the Figueroa Mountain weather. In fact, it was already 56 degrees at 7:15 and I shed most of my outwear early on.
When I got out of the car, I immediately heard a singing Mountain Chickadee, Purple Finch, House Wren, Mountain Quail, Steller's Jays, and an Ash-throated Flycatcher. I thought "Wow! This is going to be a great day!" And when I started down the road, I soon had one each singing Townsend's and Hermit Warblers, and a pair of Lazuli Buntings.
Unfortunately, that was pretty much it. There were long patches along the trail where I had no birds, not even Scrub Jays. I eventually turned a few chaparral birds and a few Woodpeckers, but nothing of note. I tried very hard for Nuthatches (any species) and came up with zilch for the second visit in a row. Species I usually get at East Pinery this time of year (like Olive-sided Flycatcher and Hammond's Flycatcher) just weren't there.
Since I finished my walk earlier than expected, I drove down to Cachuma Camp where Peter S. had a great morning yesterday. Of course, it was almost 11 a.m. when I got there and I expected low activity, but a walk along the creek turned up no Buntings and none of the Warblers he saw yesterday; also, no sign of Hammond's Flycatcher. There was plenty of activity on the part of both species of Jay and also House Wrens, as well as calls from both Mountain and California Quail, but the highlight here was getting both a Western Wood-Pewee and an Olive-sided Flycatcher sitting together in plain view in the same sycamore. Great Teaching moment for new birders; wish I had a decent camera for the photo.
Now on to flowers:As in my previous visit, wildflowers along Figueroa Mountain Road are present but in patches. With the exception of Lupine, which is wide-spread, there are stretches where there are no flowers at all. Some new species since my visit a month ago were Chinese Houses along the roadside banks, Ball Gilia in patches starting at the entrance to Pino Alto Road; Mariposa Lillies along the roadside of the Sedgwick Reserve.
After East Pinery, I continued down to Cachuma Camp. I found some really nice patches of Chia Sage along the roadside's steep bank, more Gilia, Bush Poppies and Bush Lupines. Near Cachuma Camp, I began picking up the pink Checkerbloom plants. The real treat was spotting a whole hillside of Mariposa Lillies at a point about a mile past the intersection of Figueroa Mountain Road and Sunset Valley Road. The hillside was obviously badly burned and even the grass along the steep slopes is scant, but there are dozens of white Mariposas there in two patches.
I skipped going to De La Guerra Springs today--will save that for another plant foray trip.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 4/29/25 11:25 am From: Robert Lindsay via groups.io <thisisroblindsay...> Subject: [sbcobirding] San Marcos Foothills, Tuesday, 4/29
Hi all,
Birded the San Marcos Foothills with friends this morning. Most notable were dozens (with an s) of Lazuli Bunting. They were everywhere. Other sightings included 3 Western Kingbird. Got a brief look at another Flycatcher. About the size and form of an Ash-Throated but uniformly medium brown above and paler below (no yellow or rust that I could see). Could not relocate to get better field marks. Other birds of note included a Raven, a Yellow Warbler, and 2 American Kestral (1 male, 1 female). Many Cliff Swallow but could not pick out any swifts. Lots of other common local birds making lots of noise as is expected this time of year.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Black Scoter (Melanitta americana) (1)
- Reported Apr 27, 2025 06:15 by Linus Blomqvist
- Point Conception Lighthouse (seawatch only, restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4708001&<ll...>,-120.4708001 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230313779 - Comments: "Scoter, together with three Surf Scoters, which allowed for close comparison. Female. Brown overall, but with large and well-defined white cheek patch, more extensive than the white patches on Surf Scoter. Slightly but noticeably smaller and more compact than Surf Scoters."
Black Scoter (Melanitta americana) (1)
- Reported Apr 27, 2025 06:15 by Steve Colwell
- Point Conception Lighthouse (seawatch only, restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4708001&<ll...>,-120.4708001 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230602641 - Comments: "Scoter, together with three Surf Scoters, which allowed for close comparison. Female. Brown overall, but with large and well-defined white cheek patch, more extensive than the white patches on Surf Scoter. Slightly but noticeably smaller and more compact than Surf Scoters."
Pine Warbler (Setophaga pinus) (1)
- Reported Apr 28, 2025 06:31 by therese vannier
- 654 Ivy Ln, Solvang US-CA 34.60024, -120.13317, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.133167&<ll...>,-120.133167 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230483045 - Comments: "male with musical-like song calling from neighbors pine tree. verified call with merlin sound app. bigger size warbler with a longer tail than most. gray wings in flight. two wing-bars. black bill. bery yellow throat. white under butt in flight."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/28/25 10:20 pm From: Wes Fritz via groups.io <wes-fritz...> Subject: [sbcobirding] North County
SB Birders, I birded around the north county today hitting many random locations just checking out birds and numbers.
The Lazuli Buntings have definitely arrived, a couple Blue Grosbeaks along San Antonio Creek ( east) no Chats yet or Lawrence’s goldfinch, only a few Cinnamon Teal and many of the ducks and sparrows have left or are hiding. A few WCSP remain. There was a slow but steady movement of Vaux’s Swifts. The only notable birds were one singing Northern Parula at Nojoqui Park around 6:00pm and was moving around. I counted 8 Purple Martins in one pass, there could be more. I also had one Purple Martin on the Solvang side of Refugio Road. Oh, one Grasshopper Sparrow on Armour Ranch Road.
Cruz had 2 Yellow-headed Blackbirds today at the ranch.
The entrance road to SMRE was closed today for construction. I am not sure when it will reopen.
Date: 4/28/25 8:30 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Refugio BC Sparrow
All,
This was found by Eunice, not Dave. My apologies. And a new Refugio Canyon bird for me! At least I don't have to do that long, winding drive up to W. Camino Cielo this year to see one.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
I too birded Refugio this morning but confined my birding to the main canyon and did not start at the S Curve above the houses. Great movement of birds where I was too. As soon as I got out of my car, I heard a Bullock's Oriole, but when I looked up into the sycamore, I found at least 6 Western Tanagers as well. At least 4 more Tanagers were flying around the trees across the road. This is kind of how the morning went.
Unlike last Monday when I found only 1 Wilson's warbler along the route, today they were all over the place, especially in the oak trees. Ditto for Warbling Vireos, though they seemed to prefer the sycamores. In one oak tree, I counted six Black-throated Gray Warblers and saw four more in the next tree, and then several more in the oak trees behind the fenced grasslands further up the road. Several of the males were singing. I also had two groups of Townsend's Warblers, a few lingering Yellow-rumps, more Bullock's Orioles and Tanagers, Yellow Warblers and Black-headed Grosbeaks singing, Western Flycatchers calling, etc. Above the avocado orchards there was a good-sized flock of Swallows (mostly Violet-green) but with them I counted 6 Vaux's Swifts. I heard 2 Cassin's Vireos (matched up calls with the recordings, one quite close near 1875D Refugio Road, but I just could not get a visual on it). And of course, there were the resident Hutton's Vireos, House Wrens, Titmice, etc. calling too. It was quieter walking back to my car, but I still managed to turn up a Nashville Warbler at a small watering trough in the ground next to the fence.
Weather Conditions are supposed to be similar for tomorrow, so if you didn't get up there today, you might get lucky tomorrow.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 4/28/25 5:03 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Migrant push inland as well
I went up and over Figueroa but skipped many of my usual stops due to fog, wind and cold. I finally found respite in Cachuma Campground with protection from the wind and some sun coming through. The migrant show was on here as well with the best bird a Hammond's Flycatcher but there was a good mix of migrant warblers with other passerines including Western Tanagers and Black-headed Grosbeaks. Along the way I ran into several locations that had at least a dozen Lazuli Bunting flitting about.
Date: 4/28/25 4:45 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Refugio Canyon
All,
Similar to Hugh in Rattlesnake Canyon, there was a push of migrants in Refugio this morning, heralding a very belated start to spring migration. The dominant species was Lazuli Bunting and all the typical spring warblers were around in decent numbers. I had singles of Cassin's Vireo and Hammond's Flycatcher and 9 Chipping Sparrow. The BC Sparrow found yesterday by Dave Compton was still around about 400 yards up from the S bend above Circle BarB. A surprise were 4 GT Grackles.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
This morning Mark Bright and I walked up the Cold Springs Trail, and we came across one group of migrants moving upcreek. The group included Cassin's and Warbling Vireos, and Hermit, Townsend's, Yellow-rumped, Nashville, Orange-crowned, and Wilson's Warblers. Higher up the trail, a Mountain Quail called persistently.
Over the years, many of us have branched out into other areas of natural history besides birds, whether it be butterflies, dragonflies, bumble bees, plants, reptiles, amphibians, etc. You might not know that there's a Santa Barbara County group where you can share your sightings or ask questions. The group was started by Wim van Dam some years ago, and we'd love to have more members. There are three ways you can join:
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Mallard x Northern Pintail (hybrid) (Anas platyrhynchos x acuta) (1)
- Reported Apr 27, 2025 08:30 by Andrew Brooks
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5353699&<ll...>,-119.5353699 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230170629 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "With 2 Mallards and a Pintail. Green head with long, slender neck and white around base of neck and a little up the neck. Grayish bill and long curled up tail. Photo"
Mallard x Northern Pintail (hybrid) (Anas platyrhynchos x acuta) (1)
- Reported Apr 27, 2025 08:30 by Laurel S Luby
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5353699&<ll...>,-119.5353699 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230149205 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "With 2 Mallards and a Pintail. Green head with long, slender neck and white around base of neck and a little up the neck. Grayish bill and long curled up tail. Photo"
Mallard x Northern Pintail (hybrid) (Anas platyrhynchos x acuta) (1)
- Reported Apr 27, 2025 08:30 by Tom Beland
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5353699&<ll...>,-119.5353699 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230168063 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "With 2 Mallards and a Pintail. Green head with long, slender neck and white around base of neck and a little up the neck. Grayish bill and long curled up tail. Photo"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Apr 27, 2025 12:14 by Caleb P.
- Carpinteria Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5140259&<ll...>,-119.5140259 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S230318327 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "First viewed at close range on north side of creek about half way between 6th-8th and later seen on south side at the end of 6th. Olive-grayish empid, blocky head with small dark bill and relatively steep forehead, complete but messy eye ring, and longer primary projection. Silent and didn’t notice much tail movement."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/27/25 2:58 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Eings Park April 27 (con't)
Sorry--Accidentally sent the message off before it was finished.
I searched the large overhead flock of Swallows diligently but could not pull out a Bank Swallow. The flock was about 99% Cliff Swallows, with an occasional Rough-winged Swallow and 2 Vaux's Swifts along for the ride.
I had better luck locating the beautiful male Blue Grosbeak, first in a large Yucca next to the Paraglider parking area; then it moved to a large elderberry bush somewhat east of the parking lot and eventually to a field with a large mustard plant in the middle. The bird was singing, which made it easy to find. I also found both male and female Lazuli Bunting on the hillside near the Calle Montilla entrance, a nice male Black-headed Grosbeak, and a pair of Hooded Orioles.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 4/27/25 2:52 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Elings Park Apr. 27
I followed up on Hugh Ranson's memo from yesterday and visited the upper bluff of Elings Park this morning. The invasion of Western Kingbirds was something special to behold. No matter where I looked, there were several Kingbirds either perched or flying nearby. Peter Gaede was leaving as I arrived--he told me he'd had 17 Kingbirds in just a single scan.
Date: 4/26/25 11:33 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Ground Dove (1 report)
- Orchard Oriole (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/25/25 10:02 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Ground Dove (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/25/25 3:41 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Blue Grosbeak at Farren Road
Birded the area around the Eucs at the top of the first hill this morning. There was a male Blue Grosbeak singing from the top of one of the trees and a not so Common for this location, Ground Dove calling a couple of hundred yards up the road. It made a brief appearance on the fence and power line. Merlin was detecting the occasional Lazuli Bunting song but I didn’t see any. I did see a Coyote carrying a Kingsnake in its mouth.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) (1)
- Reported Apr 24, 2025 15:03 by Mark Hays
- Waller Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4392958&<ll...>,-120.4392958 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S229017452 - Comments: "Previously reported bird through the winter and recently. Often seen tucked in with a group of other white geese. This time it had its head down. But it was immediately recognized by its size and the black feathers in the tail region and not on its wings. It was hunkered down on the island just out of the water. On one last loop around the pond before I left it did raise its head several times and I was able to see the distinctive Bill “grin” and photograph it."
Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii) (2)
- Reported Apr 24, 2025 15:03 by Mark Hays
- Waller Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4392958&<ll...>,-120.4392958 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S229017452 - Comments: "Probable returning bird or resident. Seen off and on over the past several years approximately mallard sized. The second goose was evident when I returned. Seems to be slightly larger than the first goose scene. The second goose is a bit larger than a mallard compared to the first ghost, which is same size or smaller than a mallard."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Apr 24, 2025 07:23 by Alex Castelein
- UCSB--Campus Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.845165&<ll...>,-119.845165 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S228917721 - Comments: "Female near chancellor’s house/DLG area. Noticed a small bird pop up onto a bush and thought it was an orange crowned or a female yellowthroat at first because of its small size. In the bins I noticed its short tail and stubbier, more triangular bill than the HOORs I’d been seeing. This is where at least 4 birds wintered last winter, so potentially at least one wintered here again. No camera with me today"
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
I found a White-throated Sparrow this morning at the Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden. I'd gone to look for hummingbirds at the blooming plantings along the Arrellaga Street fence. Disappointingly, there were none. However, the Sparrow hopped up out of a bush onto the fence where I got a good look at it before it flew across the street to theUnity Church garden.
Last year, there was a White-throated Sparrow that hung around in this location with the White-crowns most of the winter.. I looked for it again this year but had no luck seeing it until today. Interestingly, there was not a single White-crown around.
Speaking of Hummingbirds, I finally turned up a Black-chinned Hummingbird after coming up with blanks most of the places I've been looking this spring. Today, a male came once to the blooming Giant Echium plants near the Bates Road bridge. It did not come back again during the time I was there.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 4/24/25 1:38 pm From: Linus Blomqvist via groups.io <linus.blomqvist...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Online app for Birds of Santa Barbara County
I was asked about using the BOSBC app on a phone so here are some
instructions to add an icon to your home screen. This makes it work
essentially like any other app on your phone, except you need service/data
for it to work.
iPhone/safari web browser: Enter the url (
https://linusblomqvist.shinyapps.io/bosbc/). At the bottom of your screen
there is a share button that looks like a square with an arrow. Click this,
then scroll down and click "Add to home screen." Click "Add." You now have
an icon on your home screen that takes you directly to the website.
iPhone/Chrome: Navigate to the website as above. In the top right corner is
the share button (box with arrow). Click this, then scroll down to "Add to
home screen." From there it's the same as on safari.
Android/chrome: Navigate to the website. Click the three dots in the top
right corner, then click "Add to home screen." Click add. Now appears an
icon. Tap and hold and then drag it to where you want it to be on your home
screen. Alternatively at this icon stage just click "Add to home screen"
and the icon will appear in an empty spot on your home screen.
I was glad to see that over 60 people used the app after my recent
announcement here on sbcobirding.
Linus
______________
*Linus Blomqvist*
On Tue, Apr 22, 2025 at 10:59 AM Linus Blomqvist <linus.blomqvist...>
wrote:
> Hi again,
>
> Paul Lehman's Birds of Santa Barbara County is the bible for birdwatchers
> in our area, and I consult it very frequently. For this reason I wanted to
> be able to access it in the quickest and most convenient way possible, so I
> built a web app where you can search for species and have the accounts pop
> up immediately. The app can be found here:
> https://linusblomqvist.shinyapps.io/bosbc/. Reports of bugs, or ideas for
> improvement, are welcome.
>
> While I'm at it, I might as well promote my other apps related to Santa
> Barbara birding:
>
> Breeding Bird Study Data Explorer:
> https://linusblomqvist.shinyapps.io/sb_bbs/ > CBC species trends: https://linusblomqvist.shinyapps.io/cbc_shiny/ >
> Linus
>
> ______________
> *Linus Blomqvist*
> *Goleta*
>
Date: 4/23/25 7:00 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Vermilion Flycatcher (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Crested Caracara (Caracara plancus) (1)
- Reported Apr 22, 2025 09:02 by Ryan Seppala
- 1100 Refugio Rd, Goleta US-CA (34.4904,-120.0720), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.071996&<ll...>,-120.071996 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S228359806 - Comments: "Likely the same bird that’s been reported sporadically along the coast for over a year. I was on top a knoll overlooking a sheared field when a large raptor appeared headed N/NE. It scaled a mustard-covered hillside and then turned, headed W/NW and directly over the field. My best look was a lateral view while it was near eye level and ~100 ft south. This view was excellent and plainly diagnostic. What initially struck me was the massive and moderately drooping beak, as well as the wings held impressively perpendicular to the body. On its final pass, I noted additional field marks: It appeared larger than a TUVU and flapped its wings regularly. The neck looked heavy/elongated, and there was a noted contrast between a black cap, white auriculars/neck, and fleshy orange bill. There was also a stunning contrast between the dark wings and white patches at the bases of the primary feathers. In all, I witnessed this bird for about 20 seconds. My camera was not accessible, which hindered photo documentation. Features I failed to note were of the tail and marks that might match it to other recent sightings (in particular, a broken primary feather)."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (2)
- Reported Apr 22, 2025 09:51 by Toby Fowler
- Goleta Slough Ecological Reserve--Los Carneros Rd. at Mesa Rd., Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8586941&<ll...>,-119.8586941 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S228286247 - Comments: "Full yellow chest, green backs, white edging on brown wings, big chunky bill, pale head, forked tail. Perched together. Mobile. One silent, the other twittering."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/22/25 4:57 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Quiota Creek and other recent birding notes
I walked along Quiota Creek (Refugio Road in the Santa Ynez Valley) today. It was gray and cool but there was lots of bird activity from Yellow Warblers, Warbling Vireos, Bullock's Oriole, Ash-throated Flycatchers and other newly-arrived breeders. As I've found elsewhere* so far this spring, migrants (especially migrant warblers) were hard to come by. I had only one Wilson's Warbler, for example. A Steller's Jay continues in the area with multiple bridges and there were Turkeys calling on the hillside to the west.
Afterward, I stopped at Nojoqui Park to see if the Purple Martins were in. Activity was low with gray skies at midday, but I did get a great look at a single male Martin.
Florence Sanchez*This is very similar to my walk up Refugio Road on the coastal side of the mountains yesterday. Again, lots of activity from newly-arrived breeders, but few migrants.
Date: 4/22/25 10:59 am From: Linus Blomqvist via groups.io <linus.blomqvist...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Online app for Birds of Santa Barbara County
Hi again,
Paul Lehman's Birds of Santa Barbara County is the bible for birdwatchers in our area, and I consult it very frequently. For this reason I wanted to be able to access it in the quickest and most convenient way possible, so I built a web app where you can search for species and have the accounts pop up immediately. The app can be found here: https://linusblomqvist.shinyapps.io/bosbc/. Reports of bugs, or ideas for improvement, are welcome.
While I'm at it, I might as well promote my other apps related to Santa Barbara birding:
Date: 4/22/25 8:41 am From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Statewide Tricolored Blackbird Survey - SB County Recap
A short recap on Tricolored Blackbird survey efforts in the County. The survey period was this past weekend April 18 - 20. Only two breeding colonies were found one at Sedgwick Reserve and one at Caliente Wetlands with an estimated 125 and 350 birds respectively. An additional 45 foraging birds were found at the dairy in Cuyama and 2 birds at a small ag pond in Cuyama Valley. Not a resounding number but still better than last survey period.
An additional 15 birds were found by John Deacon near Casmalia 10 days prior to survey and 5 birds were found by Mark Holmgren between Lompoc and Buellton a day after the survey period. These seem to indicate there are more birds and possibly breeding colonies out there but finding and getting to them can be difficult.
I had a ton of support this survey cycle with folks surveying, scouting or just providing info on presence/absence of birds in hard-to-reach areas. So thanks to the following: Laura Baldwin, Tim Matthews, Mike Thomas, John Deacon, Mark Holmgren, Peter Gaede, Julian Gaede, John Storrer, Ryanne Bee, Daniel Farrar, Florence Sanchez. Apologies if I missed anyone.
I will probably get an update on statewide results at some point, I will update here when I have that info.
Date: 4/21/25 9:38 pm From: Linus Blomqvist via groups.io <linus.blomqvist...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Cuyama Bird Surveys: report from winter, save the date for spring
Hi all,
At long last, here is the report from the 2025 Cuyama Winter Bird Survey, which took place on January 25-26. This was the third Cuyama Bird Survey, and participation was at an all-time high: a total of 20 people across 13 teams. Together, we fanned out across Cuyama Valley and its environs to document the status and distribution of birds in this poorly covered corner of Santa Barbara County. Many thanks to all the participants for their contributions. Most of the participants had a long drive to get to Cuyama, and several groups stayed one or two nights in the area. On the second day, some endured windy and rainy conditions to eke out a few additional species. All in all, an awesome team effort and a very meaningful contribution to our understanding of this area's avifauna.
Before I proceed to report from the winter survey, I want to announce that *the Cuyama Spring Bird Survey will be held on May 17-18*. Mark your calendars, and let me know if you're interested in participating!
Highlights from the winter survey include: 1 Gray Flycatcher; 1 Eastern Phoebe; over 9000 Horned Larks; 17 Sage Thrashers; 353 Mountain Bluebirds; 9 Chipping Sparrows; 1 Brewer's Sparrow; 2 Black-throated Sparrows; and 1 Sagebrush Sparrow.
Our total this year was 111 species, compared to 102 species in 2024. It's hard to know if this was because of our somewhat more thorough coverage, or because there was more bird diversity this winter compared to the last one. Perhaps a mix of the two. Finding 111 species might not sound like much to someone used to birding the South Coast, but in my mind it's a very impressive total for this area, and a testament to the fantastic effort by all the participants.
Our coverage was somewhat more extensive than last year, but not in a way that would greatly affect the comparison. No location that was covered in 2024 lacked coverage this year, but we added a few sites. The most significant ones were the BLM land north of Ballinger Canyon, the Cuyama River riverbed, and Pato Canyon. The riverbed was the only one that substantially changed the results compared to the previous year for certain species. This year, we had a total of 82 checklists, compared to 41 in 2024. This reflects repeat visits rather than the addition of many new sites. Total checklist duration for this year was about 82 hours; in 2024 it was 56 hours. This reinforces the picture of more thorough coverage of mostly the same sites as last year. Subtracting the hours dedicated to the three new sites mentioned above, we get about 71 hours, still 15 hours more than last year.
Note that this survey covers not just Cuyama Valley proper (Lehman's District V), but also the foothills of Sierra Madre. Bates Canyon, Aliso Park, and the upper reaches of Santa Barbara Canyon were included in the survey but belong to the Mountain District. A very small number of locations were in Kern and San Luis Obispo counties, but the bulk of our coverage was in Santa Barbara County.
One theme that emerged was that this was not a good year for many northern/montane migrants. This year we missed Lewis's Woodpecker (3 last year), Golden-crowned Kinglet (4), Red-breasted Nuthatch (1), Cedar Waxwing (30), and Pine Siskin (37). We also only had 1 Varied Thrush, compared to 4 last year. On the other hand, this was an exceptionally good year for Sage Thrasher (see below), and the number of Horned Larks was off the charts.
Another insight from this year is that the riverbed of the Cuyama River can be very productive. The high counts for Sage Thrasher and Bell's Sparrow were from here, as well as the only record of Sagebrush Sparrow. I have barely seen any previous reports from this site on eBird, but it clearly deserves more attention.
There were 10 species we had in 2024 that we missed this year. Five of these were the montane birds listed above. Another notable miss was California Condor, which we had on both the winter and spring survey last year.
We had 19 species this year that we didn't have last year, including birds associated with water, such as Cinnamon Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Long-billed Curlew, Greater Yellowlegs, Snowy Egret, and Great Egret. All of these are hit or miss in Cuyama Valley and depend on the availability of water and random movements. Extensive coverage at Caliente Ranch wetland generated some of these birds, plus Virginia Rail and Marsh Wren. Spotted Owl, Sage Thrasher, and Sagebrush Sparrow were all in locations that were not covered last year.
Below are accounts of select species. I use Paul Lehman's Birds of Santa Barbara County (BOSBC) as my reference here. You can access this work here <https://linusblomqvist.shinyapps.io/bosbc/>. When I mention a status like "very rare," this is a direct quote from BOSBC. I did not cross-check everything with eBird, so there may in some cases be more historical records of individual species than what is mentioned here.
Ring-necked Duck. 12 at New Cuyama WTP. Very rare in District V. As a side note, this is a testament to the rapid turnover of birds on the ponds and wetlands in Cuyama Valley--the WTP was visited 7 times over two days and the Ring-necked Ducks were only recorded in a single checklist.
Virginia Rail. One at Caliente Ranch wetland. Casual migrant in District V. Only three other records are mentioned in BOSBC for this district, all of them in spring.
Long-billed Curlew. 3 at the WTP. Very rare in District V. The only other winter record for this district was in 2005.
Greater Yellowlegs. 1 at the WTP. Casual in winter in District V: BOSBC mentions three previous records in this season.
Snowy Egret. 1 at the WTP. Very rare migrant in District V, and no previous winter records.
Great Egret. Possibly the same individual flying over Aliso Canyon Road and then later observed at Caliente Ranch wetland. Very rare winter visitor in District V.
Turkey Vulture. 1 at Caliente Ranch wetland and 1 along Wasioja Road. Very unusual wintering bird in District V, but these could be very early spring migrants. The 2024 Cuyama Winter Bird Survey did not record any Turkey Vultures.
Golden Eagle. A total of 6 reported. Based on times and locations, this could involve 3-4 birds, but hard to know for sure given how widely this species ranges.
Red-shouldered Hawk. 1 at Caliente Ranch wetland. Uncommon winter visitor in District V. Not recorded on the 2024 winter survey.
Ferruginous Hawk. A total of 11 reported, but the number of individuals might be about half of that. This strikes me as low compared to my experience over the years. I reported 21 individuals from the 2024 survey, but this is subject to the usual caveats about double counting.
Owls: 2 Barn Owls, 7 Western Screech-Owls, 12 Great Horned Owls, and 1 Spotted Owl.
Merlin. A total of 11 reports, but given the likelihood of double counting, this could involve just a small handful of individuals.
Peregrine Falcon. Presumably the same individual seen along Perkins Road and at the WTP. Very rare but annual in District V.
Prairie Falcon. A total of 11 reports, perhaps involving 3-5 individuals.
Gray Flycatcher. 1 along Wasioja Road. Casual in winter anywhere in the county, with only 8 previous records in this season, only one of which is from District V.
Eastern Phoebe. 1 at Caliente Ranch wetland. First record for District V.
Cassin's Kingbird. 1 in New Cuyama. BOSBC mentions only one winter record in District V, but there seems to be at least one resident individual in New Cuyama town in the last few years.
American Crow. 1 at Aliso Park, where regular, and a flock of 16 (with photo documentation) from Wasioja Road. The status of American Crows in District V is contested, but no one would disagree that 16 is a very high number.
Horned Lark. Roughly 9100 across the valley floor, and this is probably an undercount given that some areas are not accessible by public road. BOSBC mentions high counts from District V of 2350 and 2000 from 2006 and 2007 respectively, so this past winter was exceptional, and ours might be the all-time high count for the species in the county. Last year's total was just over 900.
Tree Swallow. 4 at Caliente Ranch wetland. Very rare in winter in District V.
Rock Wren. 14 across our survey sites in District V, a fairly high number for the area.
Marsh Wren. 2 at Caliente Ranch wetland. Rare in District V.
Sage Thrasher. Total of 17 in District V. This was an exceptional year for the species across Southern California, and Cuyama Valley was no exception. BOSBC mentions a total of 38 Sage Thrashers in District V between 1979 and 2023, so ours is surely the high count. Notably, the majority of our birds were on the riverbed of Cuyama River, a site that is very seldom birded, and that was not covered in last year's survey.
Mountain Bluebird. Total of 353, a good number for Cuyama Valley, but somewhat lower than last year.
Varied Thrush. 1 along the Santa Barbara Canyon hiking trail. None in Bates Canyon, where we had 4 last year.
Lawrence's Goldfinch. 1 in Deer Park Canyon and 1 at the BLM parcel north of Ballinger Canyon. Compare with a total of 10 last year.
Chipping Sparrow. 3 at Santa Barbara Pistachio and 6 on the way in to Deer Park Canyon. Fairly normal numbers for Cuyama Valley in winter.
Brewer's Sparrow. 1 in Ballinger Canyon. Fewer of them than last year, when we had 7 across four different sites.
Black-throated Sparrow. 2 in Deer Park Canyon, where they are regular in winter in small numbers.
Sagebrush Sparrow. 1 at the riverbed of the Cuyama River. Up to 3 had been recorded at the BLM parcel north of Ballinger Canyon earlier in the winter, but this was the first one outside this patch and indeed one of very few records in Santa Barbara County as a whole. Reports from elsewhere in Southern California suggest that this was a good year for them.
Bell's Sparrow. 41 across several sites. The highest count was from the Cuyama River riverbed (18). This site seems to compare favorably to other more established sites for this and other species in Cuyama Valley. Numbers were lower in all other areas compared to last year.
Vesper Sparrow. 24 across multiple sites. More than last year, when we had 14.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) (2)
- Reported Apr 17, 2025 16:16 by Toby Fowler
- Coal Oil Point, Devereux Beach, Sands Beach, and bluff trails, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8783064&<ll...>,-119.8783064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226504868 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Flying along the ocean, but didn't strike me as any Mergini-esque duck. As they reached the point, they banked towards land and headed either up the coast or inland, I didn't see.
Terrible pictures and I didn't get an ID in the field, but they're both long, slender ducks. Male has a dark brown head, white neck, grey body and wings, and a long tail. Female ID based on similar silhouette, but brown overall with a dark bill.
I didn't realise they'd be a rarity flagger so apologies in the delay :)"
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 20, 2025 16:37 by Zach Nett
- Lake Jocelyn, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.4772805&<ll...>,-119.4772805 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S227677433 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "continuing bird. originally seen on western edge of lake, then eastern as I was leaving. much smaller than the Greater Yellowlegs it was associating with. distinct white eye ring."
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (1)
- Reported Apr 20, 2025 10:19 by Caleb P.
- Carpinteria Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5140259&<ll...>,-119.5140259 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S227685458 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Observed at this location before. small and hyper bird, mostly green on top, greenish yellow throat, white underside and extremely prominent white eye ring."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Apr 20, 2025 16:15 by John Deacon
- Deacon Home (Restricted Access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.432212&<ll...>,-120.432212 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S227676700 - Comments: "This was a first-year male. He had a black throat patch, and his darkish yellow green, almost olive colored body was what first caught my attention. He appeared somewhat smaller than the adult male HOOR that I've been seeing at my feeders recently. Wing bars were present but subtle due to the scruffy appearance of the bird. I just set up game cams at my nectar feeders. Hopefully he'll return and I can get some confirmatory pictures. I've had first year ORORs here before. They were scruffy looking also but were beginning to show some of the chestnut coloration you would expect in a male OROR. From what I could see in my observation of this bird, there was no evidence of chestnut coloration."
***********
You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/21/25 9:09 am From: Cruz Phillips via groups.io <cruzitas...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Big exit of White Crowned Sparrows
We had a big decrease in White-Crowned Sparrows over the last two days, down to just a handful in the yard this morning. Only 4 in my front yard which had 100+ last week.
Cruz PhillipsLas Cruzitas Ranch
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (2)
- Reported Apr 18, 2025 11:47 by Libby Patten
- Santa Monica Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5278168&<ll...>,-119.5278168 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S227520298 - Comments: "Males in Seen in large sycamore next to path at end of El Carro Lane where seen yesterday by John Callender. Heard singing also. Also saw one and heard it singing from cape honeysuckle south of little footbridge. Assuming it’s only two individuals. Chestnut-orange underparts, shoulder patch and rump. Black head, back and tail and white wing bar. Will add photo"
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/19/25 4:08 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Golden Eagle over Refugio Rd., Gaviota Coast
Pam and I saw a Common Raven chasing what we believe was a Golden Eagle high over Refugio Rd. this morning. Tom Turner also saw these birds and confirmed the Golden Eagle ID. Lehman describes the Golden Eagle as a "very rare to casual visitor visitor to the South Coast".
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 18, 2025 11:53 by Lynn Oldt
- Santa Monica Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5278168&<ll...>,-119.5278168 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226842719 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Small Oriole with black upper body and head and rust underparts. Unfortunately, I was only able to see one of the pair because something flew into the tree causing all of the birds to fly off before I was able to locate the second bird. Continuing at the same location reported by John."
Hepatic Tanager (Piranga flava) (1)
- Reported Apr 19, 2025 10:09 by Maggie Sherriffs
- Evergreen Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8909131&<ll...>,-119.8909131 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S227101930 - Comments: "Chunky orange-red tanager with a stout gray bill and dusky face and cheek. Gray wash over flanks. Not vocalizing. Good extended looks at the central side and side of face. Bird has wintered here for a couple years but this must be a late record…in the eucalyptus canopy but not super high up. Near the bench/tee-off near the east end of the open space."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/19/25 12:09 pm From: Maggie Sherriffs via groups.io <maggiesherriffs...> Subject: [sbcobirding] El Encanto Creek and Hepatic continues at Evergreen
This morning I birded along Tecolotito Creek on the east side of the Dos
Pueblos High School parcel. Really beautiful spring morning. There was a
softball tournament blasting pop music on the north side of campus but the
resident and migrant breeders made themselves heard. Tons of singing
Yellow, Orange-crowned, and Yellow-rumpled warblers. Hutton’s Vireos were
very vocal. Tons of Western Kingbirds; the Cassin’s seem to prefer the
adjacent neighborhood.
I was disappointed I hadn’t seen/heard any orioles or tanagers so I rode
over to Evergreen Open Space, hoping to pick one up. No orioles, but I was
surprised to find a (presumably “the”) Hepatic Tanager in the eucs near the
memorial bench on the west end of the riparian. I got good, extended looks;
it was not another migrant tanager. From below it was allover bright
orange-red. Gray wash on the flanks. It had a big gray bill and showed its
gray cheeks when it tilted its head. The hotspot doesn’t get birded much in
spring or summer, so I think it’s hard to say how long the bird stuck
around last year.
Date: 4/18/25 1:12 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Blue Grosbeaks Return to Farren Rd
There was a pair of Blue Grosbeaks at the top of the first hill on Farren Rd. this morning. Initially, they were on the wires near the Euc trees but they then flew off into the property on the east side of the road. There was no sign of any Lazuli Buntings or Grasshopper Sparrows, yet.
Date: 4/18/25 11:44 am From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Phainopepla invasion
I was out looking for Blackbirds (Tricolored) all morning and came home to find black birds in the form of 7 Phainopepla cavorting around my water feature and surrounding trees. I've had occasional single birds but never this kind of show. I managed a shot of three of the birds at once:
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (2)
- Reported Apr 18, 2025 08:02 by John Callender
- Santa Monica Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5278168&<ll...>,-119.5278168 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226654175 - Comments: "Two adult males associating with each other in the large sycamore just south of El Carro Lane. Medium-sized/small orioles, extensive black hoods, black wings and tails, dark chestnut bodies."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/17/25 10:11 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Solitary Sandpiper (1 report)
- Bank Swallow (1 report)
- Brown Thrasher (3 reports)
- Orchard Oriole (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Apr 16, 2025 12:49 by Spencer Seale
- Lake Jocelyn, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.4772805&<ll...>,-119.4772805 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226219189 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Likely the same bird found by J. Callender on 4/4. Small tringa with white spectacles, dull greenish legs, and speckled backside. Observed foraging along the northern edge of the lake."
Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) (1)
- Reported Apr 16, 2025 07:56 by John Callender
- Carpinteria Creek Estuary, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5198238&<ll...>,-119.5198238 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226101940 - Comments: "Small swallow, smaller than nearby Cliff Swallows. Solid brownish back, white throat with distinct dark band across the upper breast. I did not see a central spike descending from the breast band. I got good looks at the bird in flight through binoculars several times from about 100 feet away, but was unable to get photos."
Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum) (1)
- Reported Apr 16, 2025 07:42 by Tom Beland
- LuBeeland, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.507798&<ll...>,-119.507798 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226104337 - Comments: "Medium sized thrasher with down curved bill, rufous back, pale underparts with black streaks, white and black wing bars. Very long tail. Yellow eyes. Forging on the ground. Second time I have seen it in the yard but first time wasn’t convinced I was really seeing a Brown Thrasher. This time had longer looks at it. Bill not as long and curved down as CA Thrasher and bird not as large."
Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum) (1)
- Reported Apr 16, 2025 07:42 by Laurel S Luby
- LuBeeland, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.507798&<ll...>,-119.507798 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226104435 - Comments: "Medium sized thrasher with down curved bill, rufous back, pale underparts with black streaks, white and black wing bars. Very long tail. Yellow eyes. Forging on the ground. Second time I have seen it in the yard but first time wasn’t convinced I was really seeing a Brown Thrasher. This time had longer looks at it. Bill not as long and curved down as CA Thrasher and bird not as large."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (2)
- Reported Apr 17, 2025 07:27 by John Callender
- Santa Monica Creek, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5278168&<ll...>,-119.5278168 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S226339500 - Comments: "[07:40] Adult male that looked fairly dingy on the orange parts; some yellowish tones on the belly and flanks, and strong light-colored edging on the back and wing coverts. Seen well through binoculars. Was giving characteristic "chuck" calls. In the large sycamore south of El Carro Lane, then in the bottlebrush trees by the footbridge.
[07:54] Later I got good looks at a second adult male that was more the expected appearance: a smallish oriole with an extensive black hood, dark wings and tail, and a chestnut body. It was giving characteristic "chuck" calls and also singing. In the large sycamore south of El Carro Lane."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/16/25 8:46 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Virginia Rail (1 report)
- American x Black Oystercatcher (hybrid) (1 report)
- Green-tailed Towhee (1 report)
- Baltimore Oriole (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 15, 2025 10:32 by Toby Fowler
- Mesa Rd. at Los Carneros Rd.--NW, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.86057&<ll...>,-119.86057 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S225917398 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing? First bird I saw when I locked up my bike by the parking lot. Singing here (34.422279, -119.862097), and may have moved to (34.422183, -119.861422). Bright orange with a splotchy black face.
Not part of the survey.
If it is the same bird, it raises an interesting question: is it going to stick around for the summer? A month seems a long time to fuel up on migration. It seems more orange then when I last saw it."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/15/25 7:24 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Hooded Merganser (1 report)
- Red Knot (2 reports)
- Least Tern (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/13/25 1:52 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Sursfbirds at COPR
Noah Gaines reported about 75 Surfbirds on the rocks at the point at COPR this morning at around 9 am. They were still there when Pam and I checked them out at about 10:30 am but later flew off towards IV.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) (1)
- Reported Apr 12, 2025 09:04 by John Deacon
- Waller Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4392958&<ll...>,-120.4392958 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S224916043 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Front Pond. Black primaries. Approximately the size of nearby Cackling Geese. Maybe a tad smaller. I thought it might be a candidate for Ross's Goose but the less rounded head, beak size, and size and shape of grin patch indicate Snow Goose."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/12/25 3:15 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Snow Goose (3 reports)
- Hooded Merganser (2 reports)
- American x Black Oystercatcher (hybrid) (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) (2)
- Reported Apr 11, 2025 14:01 by Noah Gaines
- Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden and Alameda Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7060287&<ll...>,-119.7060287 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S224671208 - Comments: "Male and female in lake. Hammerhead appearance female all brown. Male with white patch on head crest from behind eye on a widening wedge to the back of the head. Entire head bordered in black. Male black above white chest and chestnut sides. Black/white/black spur between chest and flank. Golden eye. Narrow white lines in fancy tertials."
American x Black Oystercatcher (hybrid) (Haematopus palliatus x bachmani) (2)
- Reported Apr 11, 2025 09:47 by Sangeet Khalsa
- San Miguel Island / Tuqan (SBA Co.), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.373038&<ll...>,-120.373038 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S224702551 - Comments: "Oystercatchers with white undersides. Pretty clean black breast border, would probably rate high on Jehl scale, but reluctant to call pure American without photos to analyze."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/10/25 6:39 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] White-throated Sparrow in North Goleta
I assume this is the same bird that I reported on 14 Mar and that has been visiting my yard since Nov last year. He made a brief visit around 1:30 pm today. However, now he is in very striking breeding plumage. The photo doesn't really do him justice as it was taken through a window and in poor light.
Date: 4/10/25 5:06 am From: Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Salton Sea / Morongo field trip April 24-27
If you want to get out of the coastal fog for a few days and see a LOT of desert birds, this is a field trip I'm leading for you. Details at
santabarbaraaudubon.org/field-trips/
--
Ron Hirst
Santa Barbara
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 4/8/25 11:12 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Tropical Kingbird (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
On Tue, Apr 8, 2025 at 4:03 PM Jessie Altstatt via groups.io
<jessie.altstatt...> wrote:
> This reminds me that I saw the bird about 3 weeks ago near Los
> Carneros/Hollister and forgot to report her. Fantastic that she's back.
>
> On Tue, Apr 8, 2025 at 3:54 PM Peter Schneekloth via groups.io
> <peterschneekloth...> wrote:
>
>> The bird put in an appearance today soaring above Los Carneros at Carl
>> Stortz around 10:45 ish. Year 11??
>>
>> Peter Schneekloth
>> Buellton
>>
>>
>
> --
> Jessica Altstatt
>
>
>
