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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1)
- Reported Jan 19, 2026 09:50 by Justin Graves
- Goleta Sanitary District, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8324084&<ll...>,-119.8324084 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S295267315 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Saw this guy nabbing insects from his perch. His entire face and front were bright red with black band that started just behind the eyes and widened towards the back of the head. Dark wings and back. Just a beautiful bird! A lifer for me and a first for the District. I got some decent photos that I will share. Amazing!!!"
Northern Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva) (1)
- Reported Jan 19, 2026 12:41 by Luke Jensen
- Jim May Park (formerly River Oaks Park), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4258633&<ll...>,-120.4258633 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S295241097 - Comments: "Seen on west side of large pond in a euc, in a few low scraggly willows and a maple tree? Not sure what tree. Pale yellow overall calling constantly. Lost it after about 10 minutes before I could get any pics."
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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/
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 18, 2026 13:45 by Cait Mazzoleni
- Andrée Clark Bird Refuge, Santa Barbara US-CA 34.42220, -119.66115, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.661145&<ll...>,-119.661145 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S295054859 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "viewed in trees along bird refuge catching bugs and perching. did not vocalize. distinct forked tail and yellow belly to breast."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (2)
- Reported Jan 18, 2026 08:27 by Pete Wolf
- Lake Los Carneros Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.84975&<ll...>,-119.84975 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S295012785 - Media: 1 Photo, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Swamp Sparrow - Vocalizing - saw one briefly as it flew over the canal - two were vocalizing - flew across canal - too busy trying to get a picture and didn't get a great look. Slightly smaller than Song Sparrow and more "rufous" colored. The Swamp - 34.44205266194931, -119.84769833968642"
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: 1/18/26 8:05 am From: Jamie Chavez via groups.io <almiyi...> Subject: [sbcobirding] County Bird List Update - 511 Species
All,
The California Bird Records Committee has endorsed the record of CRESTED AUKLET found at Pt. Arguello on Vandenberg SFB in late July 2025. This adds one new bird species to the county bird list. Interestingly, it was considered to be a different Crested Auklet from the one found days earlier at Southeast Farallon Island.
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (6) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 16, 2026 08:45 by Marjorie Popper
- Sedgwick Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0405478&<ll...>,-120.0405478 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S294567464 - Comments: "uncommon, but not rare at this location, these birds were interspersed with juncos feeding along a road through a woodland of valley, blue, and coast live oaks"
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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/
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Wilson's Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor) (1)
- Reported Jan 14, 2026 09:07 by Betsy Moles
- 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/S294247227 - Comments: "Seen in channel. Walking in shallow water with jerky motion. Long slender neck and long thin Bill. Yellow legs in flight. Grayish upper body, neck and head, no obvious Coloration."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 14, 2026 09:07 by Betsy Moles
- 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/S294247227 - Comments: "Kingbird with yellow extending high on breast. Large white face patch extending behind eye. Larger bill. Notched tail. Did not vocalize. Perched on wire fence at pond beyond Phelps creek."
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (1)
- Reported Jan 14, 2026 10:28 by Lynda Nahra
- Calle Albatros, Santa Barbara US-CA 34.44675, -119.76588, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.765885&<ll...>,-119.765885 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S294255407 - Comments: "I heard this bird first as I was unfamiliar the very high pitched sound so I turned on my Merlin bird id which indicated it was a Swinhoe’s White Eye. I excitedly began searching for it and saw an olive small bird but then as it turned I saw a very yellow throat area."
Lucy's Warbler (Leiothlypis luciae) (1)
- Reported Jan 14, 2026 10:28 by Lynda Nahra
- Calle Albatros, Santa Barbara US-CA 34.44675, -119.76588, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.765885&<ll...>,-119.765885 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S294255407 - Comments: "I saw this individual in the bushes on the other side of the border of our property in the open area where there is lots of brush. It was was plain but I noticed a reddish brown spot on it s head . Then I saw it sing and turned on my Merlin bird id for song and the sighting was confirmed. I couldn’t get a decent picture . By the time I thought about it the bird had left."
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (1)
- Reported Jan 13, 2026 10:09 by Mario Ramos
- Happy Canyon Road--Armour Ranch Road intersection to Los Padres NF boundary, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.001495&<ll...>,-120.001495 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S294071498 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Observed perched briefly and foraging nearby within a vineyard. Plain gray underparts, subtle dark eye-line, and thin pale bill noted before it moved out of view."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Jan 13, 2026 10:28 by Kelly Krechmer
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S294218413 - Comments: "Saw briefly foraging at the top of the tree behind the brewery. Bright yellow underside with white tail patch clearly seen. Upper not see. Ruled out Townsends and all tanagers. Craned my neck for so long hoping to get a photo. Not cooperative - too high and foraging behind leaves. Lost sight of it. Parking area super busy with deliveries and people parking. Challenging conditions!!"
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/
Continues at Ennisbrook. I heard it making its distinct "Pip Pip" call as I walked onto the trail. Unfortunately, it went silent before I got to the location where it was calling and I did not get a visual, but the call was unmistakeable. Did not show up or call again during the next hour while I was checking out the trails.
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Mallard x Northern Pintail (hybrid) (Anas platyrhynchos x acuta) (1)
- Reported Jan 12, 2026 09:00 by Lynn Scarlett
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5283666&<ll...>,-119.5283666 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293900727 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing amid flock of mallards. Pintail features including white stripe on neck, but also green on head, mallard type breast"
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 12, 2026 15:52 by John Callender
- Mesa Lane backyard, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.526193&<ll...>,-119.526193 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293947353 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Vocalizing as it foraged in our backyard apple tree. I observed it naked-eye, seeing the characteristic small body with greenish-yellow upperparts, white belly, yellow on the throat and undertail coverts, and a very broad white eye-ring. I was interested in seeing if Merlin Sound ID would be able to identify it, which it wasn't; it only identified the American Crow that was also audible."
Hepatic Tanager (Piranga flava) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 12, 2026 12:59 by Karen Rusch
- 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/S293954719 - Comments: "Heard only just east of the Bryson Williams bench. With Kelly when we both heard it call. She was able to see it-as I turned to look it dropped down and was not seen again. Stayed in the area for another 45 minutes or so to visualize it but didn’t see it."
Hepatic Tanager (Piranga flava) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 12, 2026 12:22 by Kelly Krechmer
- 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/S293935706 - Comments: "Continuing last reported by another bird on the 11th and thanks to them for saying where as it is in the same area today!! Heard calling near Bryson Williams bench and saw at 1:15pm. Located by Karen and Kelly. Karen identified the bench where it had last been observed near and then we both heard it calling a few times. We followed the sound along paved trail and stop to try to find it. It suddenly landed on a eucalyptus branch feet away (mid-canopy) in the Eucalyptus Grove near where the trail forks. Red male ruled out Western and Summer Tanagers. I said there it is to Karen and it flew away right then before Karen got eyes on. We tried to relocate unsuccessfully. Hanging out near six Mourning Doves and a bunch of foraging juncos, a few Acorn woodpeckers…and one Nuttalls. I stayed until 2:30pm to try and relocate and get a pic."
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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/
Found again this morning about 10:00 a.m. in the Italian Stone Pines along Santa Ynez Avenue across from the Park. The bird was not initially present but flew in chipping loudly, which it continued to do as it moved about through the branches. This might be a way to locate the bird. The chip is lower in pitch than a Yellow-rumps as well as slightly slower and "thicker."
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black Scoter (Melanitta americana) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 11:15 by Mark Hays
- Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve, including Santa Maria River Estuary (SBA Co.), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6473815&<ll...>,-120.6473815 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293752080 - Comments: "Seen with a scope. Attempting to photograph. All black Scoter large orange knob on the Bill. No other color on the head or the back of the head, swimming with many Surf Scoters."
Black Scoter (Melanitta americana) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 11:15 by John Fields
- Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve, including Santa Maria River Estuary (SBA Co.), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6473815&<ll...>,-120.6473815 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293768439 - Comments: "Seen with a scope. Attempting to photograph. All black Scoter large orange knob on the Bill. No other color on the head or the back of the head, swimming with many Surf Scoters."
Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 16:11 by Claudia Benvenuto
- 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/S293820681 - Comments: "One female alone paddling close to American Widgeons. Observed for two or three minutes. Light brown/red head, long thin, noticeable white chin and crested nape, typical flying pattern close to the water’s surface."
Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 09:14 by therese vannier
- 654 Ivy Ln, Solvang US-CA 34.60018, -120.13326, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.133261&<ll...>,-120.133261 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293741444 - Comments: "“TOO!” heard the call before i saw the large sandpiper in flight over my house towards sy river. long yellow legs. straight dark bill. smaller in size than greater yellow legs. streaks on uppper breast. white rump with dark barred tail."
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 13:54 by Gjon Hazard
- Santa Ynez Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.085148&<ll...>,-120.085148 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293810259 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "2:15 PM. 34.612407 -120.084735. In the live oak trees behind the restroom. Adult male. Red throat bordered in black. Strongly contrasting black-and-white face with no apparent red on nape."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 09:49 by Mario Borunda
- 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/S293716701 - Comments: "Dark,streaked brown upperparts. Faintly streaked underparts. Head had rust brown cap, gray stripe above eyes, butterscotch on upper edge of malar. White throat. Seen bathing from campground bridge looking north on west side of creek"
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 09:49 by Andrea Bruce
- 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/S293815839 - Comments: "Dark,streaked brown upperparts. Faintly streaked underparts. Head had rust brown cap, gray stripe above eyes, butterscotch on upper edge of malar. White throat. Seen bathing from campground bridge looking north on west side of creek"
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 11:22 by David Compton
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293746897 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. In pines along Santa Ynez Rd. The bird would forage fairly deliberately in a part of one of the pines, then move to another tree or another part of the tree, then staying in the same area for 30 seconds to several minutes before moving again. I didn't get great looks, partly because I was trying, pretty unsuccessfully, to get photos, and then I went to get the attention of two other birders in the area who had been looking for the bird. But I was able to see the bright yellow throat and breast, white bellow and under tail coverts, some dark streaking on the sides, a dark border between the yellow throat and gray face, short and yellow supercilium, and mostly white underside to tail with dark corners."
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1)
- Reported Jan 11, 2026 08:11 by Dean Wrench
- Lake Los Carneros Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.84975&<ll...>,-119.84975 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293744006 - Comments: "Plain yellow throat and belly. Slightly drab head and wings. Thick, pale bill. Great view through binoculars at close range of bird perched on a bare branch. Flew before I could photograph. Promptly compared to photos posted by John Callender on January 10 at same location. Photos indistinguishable from bird I saw."
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: 1/11/26 6:17 pm From: Dave Compton via groups.io <davcompton60...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Sunday Carpinteria rarity check
To add to Florence's post, as far as I know, the Prothonotary Warbler remained a no-show at Cactus Lane. Two out of town birders were still there when I left, and I saw them later at the Grace's Warbler spot, and they told me they never saw the Prothonotary. After hearing of our failure, Larry Ballard checked as well. Last I heard, just before 1pm, he had not seen the bird. As I understand it, it had been pretty reliable up until today.
Over at Santa Ynez Road, I walked into Catlin Circle and couldn't find the Grace's Warbler. But as I was leaving, I found it in pines along the west side of Santa Ynez. I gather it had been pretty consistent in the courtyard at Catlin Circle, but today it was on Santa Ynez.
Date: 1/11/26 6:11 pm From: Miguel Christie via groups.io <christiemiguel...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Oiled grebes at Ocean Beach/ SYR outflow
Greetings, I just got back and checked my photos from the beach and realized that 2 big grebes (Clark's/Western) that were resting on the N shore of the outflow are badly oiled (most of their bellies). Is there any rescue option in these cases? Who does one alert? Thanks, best.
Date: 1/11/26 4:25 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Prothonotary Warbler no show
At least for seven of us who waited until 11 a.m. today, that was the case. We checked other tipu trees in the vicinity just to be sure it hadn't moved a bit. Of course, it may have shown up later but . . .
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Greater Pewee (Contopus pertinax) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 10:14 by Luke Jensen
- Ennisbrook Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6226395&<ll...>,-119.6226395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293518067 - Media: 20 Photos
- Comments: "Seen flying around exposed area of creek and giving great looks. Steve first heard it call near east entrance to creek and then it flew into eucs on west entrance to creek. Then found it close up look between some oaks in a very bare sycamore. Pics will be uploaded soon."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 11:06 by Caleb P.
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293523427 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird found by Eric Culbertson. Striking colored warbler with golden head and chest, olive-green back, and grayish wings (without wingbars). The bill appeared longer than warblers I’m used to seeing here. Observed in parking lot behind Roxanne’s. First viewed it on the ground where it dodged traffic and foraged under one car for a while. Joined briefly by Steve & Dawn Hovey and Luke Jensen as I was on my way out."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Mei Hsiao
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293490804 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Mark Mizak
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293490806 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by James Smith
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293498763 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Scott Gering
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293493941 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Megan Foster
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293493625 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Wen Shyong
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293490810 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Alex Lamoreaux
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293484493 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Luc and Therese Jacobs
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293490805 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 08:26 by Holly Wenger
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293490807 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing - foraging through the tipu at (34.3978187, -119.5184579). Lemon-yellow and chunky with bluish wings and white vent. Black eye on plain yellow face. Also briefly went to a nearby pine, but then right back to the same tipu. Photos."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 10, 2026 11:40 by Luke Jensen
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293579073 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing, seen in town home trees flitting around giving okay looks. Called a little bit. A lot of okay to good pictures. I will not add much detail because I have pictures and it has been well documented."
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: 1/10/26 2:32 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Sedgwick Reserve - Possible ruber subspecies of Red-breasted Sapsucker
I wanted to share some photo's of a suspected ruber subspecies of Red-breasted Sapsucker at Sedgwick reserve this past Wednesday. I have good shots of the back and less so of the head that seem to show reduced back markings (more like spots than bars and variously described as straw, buffy or golden), reduced white in the flight feathers and a bright red head with minimal white malar stripe. In the field the head color really struck me as brighter red.
I shared these photo's with one local highly experienced birder and he was supportive of the ruber ID. Nonetheless any other comments welcomed. Lehman's Birds of SBCo list only 4 prior records for the ruber subspecies so group review and comment certainly warranted.
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 10:37 by Alex Lamoreaux
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Canyon Campgrounds, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5645389&<ll...>,-119.5645389 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293373719 - Comments: "Down below the cliffs on the way to Cavern Point we spotted it taking flight off the ocean - larger grebe with yellow bill, dull red neck, thin white leading edge to wing, white secondary patches, etc. Distant photos."
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 10:37 by Holly Wenger
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Canyon Campgrounds, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5645389&<ll...>,-119.5645389 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293374476 - Comments: "Down below the cliffs on the way to Cavern Point we spotted it taking flight off the ocean - larger grebe with yellow bill, dull red neck, thin white leading edge to wing, white secondary patches, etc. Distant photos."
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 10:37 by Mei Hsiao
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Canyon Campgrounds, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5645389&<ll...>,-119.5645389 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293374472 - Comments: "Down below the cliffs on the way to Cavern Point we spotted it taking flight off the ocean - larger grebe with yellow bill, dull red neck, thin white leading edge to wing, white secondary patches, etc. Distant photos."
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 10:37 by Luc and Therese Jacobs
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Canyon Campgrounds, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5645389&<ll...>,-119.5645389 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293374473 - Comments: "Down below the cliffs on the way to Cavern Point we spotted it taking flight off the ocean - larger grebe with yellow bill, dull red neck, thin white leading edge to wing, white secondary patches, etc. Distant photos."
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 10:37 by Wen Shyong
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Canyon Campgrounds, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5645389&<ll...>,-119.5645389 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293374479 - Comments: "Down below the cliffs on the way to Cavern Point we spotted it taking flight off the ocean - larger grebe with yellow bill, dull red neck, thin white leading edge to wing, white secondary patches, etc. Distant photos."
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 10:37 by James Smith
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Canyon Campgrounds, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5645389&<ll...>,-119.5645389 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293380961 - Comments: "Down below the cliffs on the way to Cavern Point we spotted it taking flight off the ocean - larger grebe with yellow bill, dull red neck, thin white leading edge to wing, white secondary patches, etc. Distant photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 09, 2026 15:49 by Michael Moss
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293370101 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing, I heard first for a while tsiip metallic calls bright yellow head grey wings white underneath landed on the ground beneath a car for a bit pics tba"
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
American Wigeon x Mallard (hybrid) (Mareca americana x Anas platyrhynchos) (1)
- Reported Jan 08, 2026 10:00 by Peter Schneekloth
- 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/S293139105 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Streaked head of a Wigeon, bill resembles Wigeon bill in shape but pinkish in color. Chestnut breast and side vermiculation of Mallard. Possible returning bird which was here 2017-2024 per eBird records. Photo"
Mallard x Northern Pintail (hybrid) (Anas platyrhynchos x acuta) (1)
- Reported Jan 08, 2026 09:00 by Lynn Scarlett
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5283666&<ll...>,-119.5283666 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293138952 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing—moved from Carpinteria Creek to Salt Marsh. See photos. Some mallard features like curly tail and some green on head with pintail features of white stripe along neck"
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) (1)
- Reported Jan 08, 2026 11:52 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Cachuma Lake Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.9579144&<ll...>,-119.9579144 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293165802 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Solo male bird. We carefully evaluated head shape (thick necked, rounded, larger) and nail (very extensive) and back shape (rounded, not peaked) and then shared with some experts to be certain we weren't just "wishful thinking" this bird into the rarer one. Happy to be corrected if we are wrong. Photos."
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) (1)
- Reported Jan 08, 2026 11:52 by Barry Langdon-Lassagne
- Cachuma Lake Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.9579144&<ll...>,-119.9579144 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293165804 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Solo male bird. We carefully evaluated head shape (thick necked, rounded, larger) and nail (very extensive) and back shape (rounded, not peaked) and then shared with some experts to be certain we weren't just "wishful thinking" this bird into the rarer one. Happy to be corrected if we are wrong. Photos."
Red-naped Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) (1)
- Reported Jan 08, 2026 16:30 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Mission Santa Ynez, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.1364636&<ll...>,-120.1364636 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293200945 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Adult female in carob trees at street on 422 First street. Red throat almost no white on chin, bounded below by black. Hint of pink at the back of head behind a white supercillium. Photos."
Red-naped Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) (1)
- Reported Jan 08, 2026 16:30 by Barry Langdon-Lassagne
- Mission Santa Ynez, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.1364636&<ll...>,-120.1364636 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S293200946 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Adult female in carob trees at street on 422 First street. Red throat almost no white on chin, bounded below by black. Hint of pink at the back of head behind a white supercillium. Photos."
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: 1/8/26 3:01 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Statewide Tricolored Blackbird Results
All - I received the final report for the Statewide Tricolored Blackbird survey completed last April. If you want a copy of full report let me know but here is part of the executive summary which shows a slight uptick since the last survey:
The 2025 Tricolored Blackbird Statewide Survey was conducted 18–20 April
2025. A total of 33 county coordinators and 130 participants surveyed 915
locations in 39 California counties. The survey covered more locations, including
40 new colony locations, than any previous statewide survey. Together, surveyors
estimated a statewide tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) population of
229,000 adult birds at 170 locations. This estimate represents a 5% increase
over the estimate from the 2022 statewide survey and a 58% increase over the
lowest statewide survey estimate of 145,000 birds in 2014. Although these
numbers are encouraging and suggest an increasing trend, the 2025 estimate was
still only 58% of the 395,000 adult birds estimated during the 2008 survey.
Date: 1/8/26 12:05 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Waller Park - American Wigeon X Mallard, possible returnee
At Waller Park today what appears to be an American Wigeon X Mallard hybrid was present. Looking at eBird records a bird was here Nov. 2017 - Jan. 2024 but I didn't see reports for balance of 2024 or 2025. Looks here if interested:
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Mallard x Northern Pintail (hybrid) (Anas platyrhynchos x acuta) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 07, 2026 08:37 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/S293029031 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing adult male. Presumably it flew over to the mouth of Carpinteria Creek from where I was seeing it shortly before this on Linden Field."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 07, 2026 10:34 by Myeisha Gamino
- Andree Clark Bird Refuge, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6572856&<ll...>,-119.6572856 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292995652 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing. Tropical Kingbird actively sallying from exposed perch; vocal throughout. Briefly perched adjacent to a Red-shouldered Hawk at 34.42197° N, 119.66182° W. Both birds took flight together, with the hawk following behind briefly before the Tropical Kingbird changed direction and flew off. Photos."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Jan 07, 2026 09:26 by Myeisha Gamino
- East Beach, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6733427&<ll...>,-119.6733427 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292980221 - Media: 6 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Vocal and calling. Perched on exposed branch and flycatching. Observed adjacent to a Cassin’s Kingbird, allowing direct comparison. Photo and diagnostic audio. Seen at 34.42237° N, 119.65729° W."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Jan 07, 2026 08:37 by Lori Gaskin
- 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/S293050869 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Observed at far western pond. Olive green back, lemon yellow breast transitioning to white throat (which extends beyond eyes), long bill; notched tail"
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: 1/7/26 1:04 am From: Wim van Dam via groups.io <wim.van.dam...> Subject: [sbcobirding] UCSB Campus Lagoon, 2016-01-06
This Tuesday afternoon, at UCSB's Lagoon, I had a female COMMON MERGANSER. Also, far away, was a candidate male Greater Scaup due to its brighter, white coloring.
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (1)
- Reported Jan 06, 2026 10:48 by Jessie Altstatt
- Goleta, 102 Orange Ave, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.82857&<ll...>,-119.82857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292856240 - Comments: "Warbler size olive color bird with obvious white goggles and distinctive calls. Visiting the hummingbird feeder. Although I only saw one today there have been two coming and going from my feeder for the past 7 weeks but I have been in and out so much it's been hard to track them. I'm assuming they're the same birds that visited me for much of 2024/5."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 11:40 by Jeff Hanson
- stakeout Broad-billed Hummingbird, private residence nearby Cathedral Oaks Rd x N San Marcos Rd (2017 ), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.797132&<ll...>,-119.797132 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292865702 - Comments: "At suet, I noticed what I thought was an OCWA. As I focused on the bird, I noticed a strong supercilium & white undertail coverts. The overall color of the bird was more yellow than the olive gray of a OCWA."
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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: 1/6/26 1:16 pm From: Libby Patten via groups.io <libby_patten...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Preliminary Results for Santa Barbara Christmas Bird Count
Greetings Birders,
The Santa Barbara CBC held last Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 was truly one for the record books! The weather was quoted by some as the worst and most challenging they’d ever experienced on a CBC. Rain, very high winds, flooding, road closures - you name it! Of course, this seriously impacted our total species count, which would have been significantly lower if not for the admirable and I’d say heroic efforts of so many talented birders. Our preliminary count stands at 179, with a few species needing further documentation. If you participated and submitted an eBird checklist, please double check that you shared the list with eBird user “sb-cbc”.
More details will be shared soon, but don’t forget that today is the last day of count week. We encourage you to look for the birds we missed (shared by Glenn a few days ago).
Thanks to everyone who participated!
Libby PattenSanta Barbara CBC Head Compiler
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 05, 2026 09:32 by Mark Holmgren
- Andree Clark Bird Refuge, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6572856&<ll...>,-119.6572856 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292664824 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Heard the trilly "trrrrrrr" call and saw the bird. It showed a bright yellow belly, a yellow-green breast, a diffuse white throat, the tail was browner than the black tail shown by Cassin's Kingbird, and a longer bill than the CaKi it sparred with."
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/
Join us for this talking to learn about the spectacular birds and ecological biodiversity of the rainforests of the Amazon Basin with Benny Jacobs-Schwartz on Tuesday, January 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM in Fleischmann Auditorium at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. The event is presented by the Santa Barbara Audubon Society and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.
Spanning nine countries and over 2.7 million square miles, the Amazon Basin is the largest and most biodiverse rainforest on Earth. Fed by thousands of rivers, it forms a living mosaic of flooded forests, shifting islands, and towering canopy — home to jaguars, harpy eagles, and river dolphins. The lecture will be mostly about birds while also exploring the rich lore woven into the Amazon’s history of exploration and discovery. Jacobs-Schwartz will trace the path of epic expeditions and remarkable avian finds before honing in on Ecuador’s Rio Napo and Yasuní National Park, where an astounding 600 species of birds have been identified, each playing a crucial role in the immense web of life. Along the way, he’ll follow the trail of rare species as they were first described, meet the naturalists who brought them to light, and explore the mysteries still hidden in this extraordinary ecosystem.
The talk will also highlight the role of Indigenous-led ecotourism, including community-owned projects where conservation, culture, and world-class birding converge.
Benny Jacobs-Schwartz has worked for over 15 years as a naturalist guide, expedition trip leader, and international bird guide including tours to tropical locales like Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Colombia.
Date: 1/5/26 1:07 pm From: Larry Ballard via groups.io <larryincarp...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Hepatic Tanager, Evergreen OS
The Hepatic Tanager was in the lower foliage about 100' east of where the lower walkway merges with the upper walkway at around 10 this morning.
Larry BallardCarpinteria CA
Date: 1/5/26 9:26 am From: Wim van Dam via groups.io <wim.van.dam...> Subject: [sbcobirding] scaup at UCSB Lagoon
Besides finding additional species for Santa Barbara CBC's Count Week, we have an additional request. Try to photograph the Greater Scaup at UCSB Campus Lagoon. This is always a hard ID, and it would help us greatly if we have a photo confirming that this bird is at this location these days.
> On Jan 5, 2026, at 8:34 AM, Glenn Kincaid via groups.io <glenn...> wrote:
>
> Greetings SBCo Birders! Thanks for a fantastic CBC effort in Saturday in some very memorable conditions! Today and tomorrow are still within Count Week, we do note and submit species seen within count week but not on count day. Below is a list of species that have not yet been reported during count, so if you see any of these species today or tomorrow please report via ebird, slack, or to me directly. Thanks again! Red-breasted Nuthatch
> Horned Grebe
> Lark Sparrow
> Pine Siskin
> Snow Goose
> Greater White-fronted Goose
> Rock Wren
> Black-vented Shearwater
> Cackling Goose
> Hooded Oriole
> Townsend’s Solitaire
> Black-and-white Warbler
> Lawrence’s Goldfinch
> MacGillivray’s Warbler
> Mountain Quail
> Northern Yellow Warbler
> Brown Creeper
> Burrowing Owl
> Common Merganser
> Greater Roadrunner
> Lucy’s Warbler
> Varied Thrush
> Vermilion Flycatcher
> Wilson’s Snipe
> American White Pelican
> Bald Eagle
> Canvasback
> Common Murre
> Golden-crowned Kinglet
> Northern Fulmar
> Northern Pygmy-Owl
> Orchard Oriole
> Short-eared Owl
> Western Warbling Vireo
> American Bittern
> Baltimore Oriole
> Chestnut-sided Warbler
> Common Gallinule
> Eastern Phoebe
> Eurasian Wigeon
> Golden Eagle
> Greater Scaup
> Red Crossbill
> Rhinoceros Auklet
> Ross’s Goose
> Tree Swallow
> Black Scoter
> Black-headed Grosbeak
> Broad-billed Hummingbird
> Grasshopper Sparrow
> Least Bittern
> Mountain Chickadee
> Northern Rough-winged Swallow
> Pygmy Nuthatch
> Red-naped Sapsucker
> Sage Thrasher
> Violet-green Swallow
> Western Flycatcher
> White-winged Scoter
> Winter Wren
> --
> Glenn Kincaid
> Santa Barbara
>
Date: 1/5/26 8:34 am From: Glenn Kincaid via groups.io <glenn...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Santa Barbara CBC, Count Week today and tomorrow
Greetings SBCo Birders! Thanks for a fantastic CBC effort in Saturday in some very memorable conditions! Today and tomorrow are still within Count Week, we do note and submit species seen within count week but not on count day. Below is a list of species that have not yet been reported during count, so if you see any of these species today or tomorrow please report via ebird, slack, or to me directly. Thanks again! Red-breasted Nuthatch
Horned Grebe
Lark Sparrow
Pine Siskin
Snow Goose
Greater White-fronted Goose
Rock Wren
Black-vented Shearwater
Cackling Goose
Hooded Oriole
Townsend’s Solitaire
Black-and-white Warbler
Lawrence’s Goldfinch
MacGillivray’s Warbler
Mountain Quail
Northern Yellow Warbler
Brown Creeper
Burrowing Owl
Common Merganser
Greater Roadrunner
Lucy’s Warbler
Varied Thrush
Vermilion Flycatcher
Wilson’s Snipe
American White Pelican
Bald Eagle
Canvasback
Common Murre
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Northern Fulmar
Northern Pygmy-Owl
Orchard Oriole
Short-eared Owl
Western Warbling Vireo
American Bittern
Baltimore Oriole
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Common Gallinule
Eastern Phoebe
Eurasian Wigeon
Golden Eagle
Greater Scaup
Red Crossbill
Rhinoceros Auklet
Ross’s Goose
Tree Swallow
Black Scoter
Black-headed Grosbeak
Broad-billed Hummingbird
Grasshopper Sparrow
Least Bittern
Mountain Chickadee
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Pygmy Nuthatch
Red-naped Sapsucker
Sage Thrasher
Violet-green Swallow
Western Flycatcher
White-winged Scoter
Winter Wren
--
Glenn Kincaid
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) (1)
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 13:45 by Kate McCurdy
- Santa Ynez River--Upper, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.77698&<ll...>,-119.77698 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292404969 - Comments: "Seen foraging in the shallow river edge of the swift flowing Santa Ynez River. Short yellow legs, plover sized body with stark white underside over mottled grey wings and back. Bill about the same size as its head."
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (4) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 13:57 by Michael Moss
- Santa Barbara Municipal Golf Course, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7371793&<ll...>,-119.7371793 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292347277 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "This small flock was found along the fence line that separates Fairway #1 and the Driving Range. The birds occasionally retreat to the pines and other trees along the west side of Fairway #1. On 18 Nov 2025, and in many previous years, the Spizella flock is found not far away on the slope on the east side of Fairway 1. In both areas the flock is almost always found in dead, brown grass kept short by either weed whacking or lack of water."
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (4) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 13:57 by Peter Gaede
- Santa Barbara Municipal Golf Course, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7371793&<ll...>,-119.7371793 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292280746 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "This small flock was found along the fence line that separates Fairway #1 and the Driving Range. The birds are occasionally retreat to the pines and other trees along the west side of Fairway #1."
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 09:43 by Rick Boyer
- Santa Barbara Yard List, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7052314&<ll...>,-119.7052314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292271541 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Male. Continuing at feeder. Black eyeline and throat strip. Yellow-brown head and back. Prominent white wing bars. Yellow throat blending to whitish breast."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 11:40 by peggy kearns
- stakeout Broad-billed Hummingbird, private residence nearby Cathedral Oaks Rd x N San Marcos Rd (2017 ), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.797132&<ll...>,-119.797132 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292510240 - Comments: "At suet, I noticed what I thought was an OCWA. As I focused on the bird, I noticed a strong supercilium & white undertail coverts. The overall color of the bird was more yellow than the olive gray of a OCWA."
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1)
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 11:45 by peggy kearns
- stakeout Broad-billed Hummingbird, private residence nearby Cathedral Oaks Rd x N San Marcos Rd (2017 ), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.797132&<ll...>,-119.797132 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292229267 - Comments: "Small hummer with purple crown and gorget with flared throat feathers. Short tail, wing tips reached tail. This bird has been at our feeders often on for a few weeks."
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1)
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 11:45 by Jeff Hanson
- stakeout Broad-billed Hummingbird, private residence nearby Cathedral Oaks Rd x N San Marcos Rd (2017 ), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.797132&<ll...>,-119.797132 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292229266 - Comments: "Small hummer with purple crown and gorget with flared throat feathers. Short tail, wing tips reached tail. This bird has been at our feeders often on for a few weeks."
Nashville Warbler (Leiothlypis ruficapilla) (1)
- Reported Jan 03, 2026 14:37 by Matt Brady
- 7402 - 7418 Hollister Ave (Tech Park), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8908561&<ll...>,-119.8908561 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S292244709 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Small warbler, yellow below with some white between the legs contrasting with yellow under tail coverts, gray hood contrasting with yellow throat and white eye ring, green back, no wing bars."
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: 1/3/26 2:20 pm From: Steve Hovey via groups.io <shovey34...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Birds Left to Find
Hello all. An amazing job so far considering the horrific conditions. At this point in the count we want to let everyone know what birds from the Tally Sheet have not yet been seen. Here is the list sorted by most common to least common. Some of the birds have locations that they've recently been seen. Thanks all for your great effort today!
STILL MISSING
Hairy Woodpecker
Sharp-shinned Hawk May have been found!
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-throated Swift
Merlin
Phainopepla
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Common Loon
Black Turnstone
Horned Grebe
Lark Sparrow Driveway near 321 W De La Guerra
American Barn Owl Contact Libby Patten for location
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) (1)
- Reported Jan 02, 2026 13:11 by Paul Hughes
- 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/S292001496 - Comments: "Observed foraging in rocks on a receding tide. Distinctive body pattern, with a black body and white breast along with black head and bright red-orange bill. Had excellent views. iPhone photos to be attached."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1)
- Reported Jan 01, 2026 16:06 by Alex Harman
- More Mesa, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7963064&<ll...>,-119.7963064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291768439 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Generally dark brown sparrow with grayish head, white chin. Rich brown colored back with black streaking. Sides gray-buff, unstreaked. Crown dark reddish brown. Seen at 34.4235, -119.7936 where it flushed out of the vegetation along the trail. One very obscured photo."
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: 1/2/26 12:44 pm From: Libby Patten via groups.io <libby_patten...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Santa Barbara CBC - Tomorrow, 1/3/26
Greetings, Birders!
Tomorrow is the Santa Barbara CBC day!
The three days before and after CBC day are part of Count Week and are important for our data records, but the species don’t count for our CBC totals. A couple of folks were confused about this, so hope that’s clear now.
We hope you can continue to scout today before the rain hits. We expect a rainy morning tomorrow but the afternoon appears to be better. If you want to return to a spot when the weather improves, feel free to submit two checklists for the same location. We can sort out the data as compilers later.
Track Species on Count DayThe CBC126 COUNT DAY TALLY is a species tracking list (a Google Sheet) which will be used throughout CBC day to check off reported species. Please use this sheet to report species seen (or heard), especially species that are rare or on the desired species list for scouting. Report birds by entering your information in the “Observed by” and “Location” columns for birds you find that no one else has reported yet. The link to this sheet has been provided to all group leaders and is on our website. You can also report rarer birds to the dedicated Slack Channel cbc-santa-barbara. We’ll be updating on this channel the key birds we haven’t found earlier in the day, so please check this to see which birds you might want to target for an afternoon search.
Please share your checklists as soon as you’re able with the “sb-cbc” eBird user.
eBird Trip report: This link to an eBird trip report will become active on Count Day. This trip report will only show species on eBird checklists that have been shared and accepted to the sb-cbc eBird account.
If you can, please take a selfie (soggy or otherwise) in your field location and share with Slack Channel: cbc-sb-count-day-selfies.
Also, it’s not safe for our boat to go out, so we’ve enlisted a number of talented sea watchers to take scopes to a variety of watch locations. Please coordinate on Slack to share your sea watch activities.
Fingers crossed that the weather continues to look less daunting tomorrow, stay safe, as dry as you are able, and thanks to everyone for your perseverance and energy!
Libby PattenSanta Barbara CBC Head Compiler
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Greater Pewee (Contopus pertinax) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 01, 2026 09:42 by Michael Moss
- Ennisbrook Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6226395&<ll...>,-119.6226395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291691683 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing overall drab flycatcher with faint wing bars long bicolor bill observed a little east of where it's been observed last couple days heard coupled calls first the located atop a dead tree pic tba"
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Jan 01, 2026 08:23 by Eric Culbertson
- El Carro Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5110179&<ll...>,-119.5110179 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291641863 - Comments: "Feeding in magnolia trees with Cassin’s kingbirds in the eastern corner of the park here (34.40418° N, 119.51009° W). This is the portion of pro closest to El Carro lane. In direct comparison with Cassin’s kingbird. A kingbird with an enormous bill, yellow underparts extending through breast (unlike nearby Cassin’s that showed fuller yellow underparts and gray breasts, smaller bills), a white chin and dark head. It was raining so the bird held its tail partially spread so the notched tail wasn’t apparent. Found here by Steve Gaulin and Colette Becker during the Carpinteria CBC on Dec 20, 2025."
Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 31, 2025 11:13 by Michelle Sopoliga
- Figueroa Mountain Road--lower (7 miles, between SR 154 and Birabent Canyon), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0832808&<ll...>,-120.0832808 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291514254 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Perched on barbed wire fence along side of road near weedy grassland and mixed flock of passerines. Allowed for good views and photos. Plain chest, short tail, large pink conical bill, white eyering, rufous markings on upper back. Photos."
Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 07:30 by Cachuma CBC
- Sedgwick Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0405478&<ll...>,-120.0405478 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291520351 - Comments: "3 different individuals observed in different areas along hike to pistol club trail/north east corner, eye ring, large bill, more buffy face with a faint dark auricular spot"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 01, 2026 07:57 by Eric Culbertson
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291617767 - Comments: "Large warbler with brilliant yellow head and breast, steely blue upper parts, off-white unmarked underparts including undertail. Large bill. In its favored tipu. Continuing here since December 4, 2025."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jan 01, 2026 09:45 by Eric Culbertson
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291651238 - Comments: "An active warbler with yellow throat and supercillium that stops at the rear of the eye, and a black line through the eye. Bold dark streaks on sides of chest. Unmarked underparts. A soft chip heard. Foraging in stone pine along Santa Ynez Ave. found by John Callander Dec 12, 2025."
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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: 1/1/26 11:54 am From: Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] date choice for CBC
I agree with all the thoughtful and experienced responses to Nick’s comment. Since we are doing a scientific survey there is also value in seeing how SB populations are changing during the 1st week of January, perhaps influenced by global warming/weather patterns. Personally I appreciate having some days to scout during the holidays. Best
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Date: 1/1/26 8:33 am From: Paul Lehman via groups.io <lehman.paul...> Subject: [sbcobirding] date choice for CBC
When I moved to Santa Barbara as a freshman in 1974, the Santa Barbara CBC was, and had been for quite some time, held the first weekend of count period in mid-December. After just a couple years or so it was moved to the last weekend, in very early January. This was done in part so that there would be a lot more time for winter stakeouts to be found, which was done! Also, a bit more rain will have likely fallen so there were better seasonal wetlands available such as at Goleta Slough. And there often was more eucalyptus blooming going on later rather than earlier. I think that only a very few rarities move on in the interim and thus are missed on the later dates for that reason. A very large percent present in mid-Dec are still present in early Jan. And the very few that might depart are more than made up for by the additional numbers of rarity stakeouts that are found during that extra 2+ weeks of holiday searching. As others have said, other important factors include avoiding the immediate holiday dates, primarily the days right around Christmas. Avoiding date conflicts with the dates of other CBCs in the three-county area may or may not have much affect. And of course, just the luck of the particular single day (due to weather or general bird activity levels) can play a large role.
Date: 12/31/25 9:25 pm From: Conor McMahon via groups.io <conormcmahon22...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Santa Barbara CBC date
Hi all,
I was curious about this so I checked the rainfall records maintained by
County of SB. These are really very detailed and spatially explicit, so
they're worth digging through if you're interested in this kind of thing:
Since 1951, 26.1% of days in the Dec. 29 - Jan 5 time block have been rainy
in Goleta, vs. 20.2% of days from Dec. 14 - Dec. 21 window. So the later
period is a little bit rainier, but really not by enough to make much of a
difference for planning reasons. There's a similar (smaller) difference in
total rainfall amount between the two, as well. My impression is that in
the next century the region is forecast to get relatively little change in
total rainfall amount, but increasing intensity towards the middle of the
season (Jan/Feb) and less rain towards the shoulders of the rainy season,
which would likely reduce the overall problem more by moving more rain
outside the CBC period (although obviously also having a lot of other
potentially interesting/negative effects).
As a compiler for the last couple years, I think a more important factor
for the schedule is avoiding holidays and associated travel/obligations.
It's not clear to me whether the current or earlier time would be better
for that aspect. I do think during basically any time in the allowed CBC
window (12/14 - 1/05) it's guaranteed that most UCSB students are
unavailable to participate, which has often felt like a loss given that so
many of our high quality habitats are close to campus. The later dates are
probably a little more likely to be good for students because most students
leave after classes end (before the start of CBC season) and come back
after New Year's or thereabouts.
Personally though I think consistency with the existing record is much more
important than any benefit we'd get from moving back and forth in terms of
either weather or participation. The count has had its current time since
1976, which is most of its history.
Worth keeping in mind too that although we like to run up the species total
count as much as we can for sporting reasons, rare species documentation is
really not the purpose of the is CBC and those data are intrinsically less
valuable than monitoring long-term population shifts in "normal," expected
birds. I'd rather focus on getting a relatively more consistent estimate of
White-crowned Sparrows than how many orioles or unusual warblers we have in
a given winter.
Best,
Conor
On Wed, Dec 31, 2025, 4:09 PM Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby=
<proton.me...> wrote:
> All,
>
> Since we are potentially facing another rainy count day, I am wondering if
> any thought has been given to changing the date of the CBC in future years.
> The current date puts us much more in the main rain period than
> mid-December. There is also a fair amount of evidence that some of the
> scarce wintering birds often move on in mid-late December, possibly due to
> colder wetter weather.
>
> Nick Lethaby
> Goleta, CA
> <nlethaby...>
> +1 805 284 6200
>
> Sent with Proton Mail <https://proton.me/mail/home> secure email.
>
> --
>
> Nick Lethaby
> Goleta,CA
>
>
>
Date: 12/31/25 2:10 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Santa Barbara CBC date
All,
Since we are potentially facing another rainy count day, I am wondering if any thought has been given to changing the date of the CBC in future years. The current date puts us much more in the main rain period than mid-December. There is also a fair amount of evidence that some of the scarce wintering birds often move on in mid-late December, possibly due to colder wetter weather.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
---------------------------------------------
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:57 by Cachuma CBC
- Cachuma Lake--Storke Flat, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.92061&<ll...>,-119.92061 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291309810 - Comments: "Scaup, and not Ring-necked Duck by the partially dusky whitish back and the bicolored bill, not patterned in 3 sections like RnDu. Lacked the peaked posterior crown. Rounded head shape. Although the light was not as good today as yesterday, the dull greenish color of the head was apparent. Both were males."
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:57 by Mark Holmgren
- Cachuma Lake--Storke Flat, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.92061&<ll...>,-119.92061 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291291866 - Comments: "Scaup, and not Ring-necked Duck, by the partially dusky whitish back and the bicolored bill with a black tip, not patterned in 3 sections like RnDu. Lacked the peaked posterior crown. Rounded head shape. Although the light was not as good today as yesterday, the dull greenish color of the head was apparent. Both were males."
Common Poorwill (Phalaenoptilus nuttallii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 06:15 by Cachuma CBC
- My driveway, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.05322&<ll...>,-120.05322 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291295624 - Comments: "Crouched on driveway side in flattened posture, no visible neck. Looked like a rock. Checked plumage. Flushed by car into Moth-like flight, pale underwings showing. Returning bird for many years."
Common Poorwill (Phalaenoptilus nuttallii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 06:15 by Laura Baldwin
- My driveway, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.05322&<ll...>,-120.05322 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291291431 - Comments: "Crouched on driveway side in flattened posture, no visible neck. Looked like a rock. Checked plumage. Flushed by car into Moth-like flight, pale underwings showing. Returning bird for many years."
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 06:48 by Cachuma CBC
- Grimm's Bluff Vineyard (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0058611&<ll...>,-120.0058611 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291295714 - Comments: "I had multiple point blank looks as bird foraged in front of me. It took multiple views for Rough-winged to enter my ID thought process but once it did I had multiple strong views of brownish face, breast and flanks, darker brown upperparts white belly and undertail."
Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) (3)
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 07:30 by Ryanne Pritchard-Bee
- Sedgwick Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0405478&<ll...>,-120.0405478 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291252682 - Comments: "3 different individuals observed in different areas along hike to pistol club trail/north east corner, eye ring, large bill, more buffy face with a faint dark auricular spot"
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (4)
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 11:14 by David Compton
- Casey Avenue, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.058185&<ll...>,-120.058185 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291247215 - Comments: "Small sparrows, longish tail, clean gray below (no streaks), dark line through eye, rusty cap. Call a high pitched “seep” that was more musical, to my ear, than calls of other sparrows."
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:12 by Rebecca Coulter
- Happy Canyon & Alisos Rd, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0008297&<ll...>,-120.0008297 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291294239 - Comments: "In mixed flock of white crowned sparrows and Juncos. Three individuals, one quite rufous- capped and the other two more like non-breeding adults. Clear breast, varying rufous color in the cap, dark eye line."
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:12 by Jim Hodgson
- Happy Canyon & Alisos Rd, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0008297&<ll...>,-120.0008297 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291303438 - Comments: "In mixed flock of white crowned sparrows and Juncos. Three individuals, one quite rufous- capped and the other two more like non-breeding adults. Clear breast, varying rufous color in the cap, dark eye line."
Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:12 by Cachuma CBC
- Happy Canyon & Alisos Rd, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0008297&<ll...>,-120.0008297 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291295613 - Comments: "In mixed flock of white crowned sparrows and Juncos. Three individuals, one quite rufous- capped and the other two more like non-breeding adults. Clear breast, varying rufous color in the cap, dark eye line."
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 31, 2025 11:06 by Lori Gaskin
- Santa Barbara Yard List, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7052314&<ll...>,-119.7052314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291442208 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Male. Continuing at feeder. Black eyeline and throat stripe. Yellow-brown head and back. Prominent white wing bars. Yellow throat blending to whiteish breast. Poor iPhone photos."
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: 12/31/25 1:51 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] S Coast Geese
All,
I did a quick check of many of the local goose haunts today and came up with very little. There were no geese on Stork Field or on the mesa in the west part of NCOS. Sandpiper had 2 Whitefronts. Laguna Blanca had 16 regular Canadas and a single Lesser Canada from the dusky-breasted Anchorage population.
Any idea where the main Canada flock is feeding? I have not seen any at Sandpiper in my last couple of checks.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Thanks to some fast juggling action by Ryanne Bee and Mark Holmgren we had a very successful count. Yesterday we found out the lake was closed to boats and the gates were all closed on the mountain. But coordinators and counters were flexible and we found some birds. Without all the lists in, we are at 141 species.
Dave Compton found a new bird for the count, a Costa's Hummingbird! And Peter Schneekloth had a Northern Rough-winged Swallow. Other good birds found were Greater White Fronted Goose, Northern Pintail, Greater Scaup, Black Crowned Night Heron, Common Poorwill, Vermillion Flycatcher, and Chestnut-backed Chickadee.
Some possible misses are Pine Siskin, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Tree Swallow, Ring-billed Gull, Sora and Least Sandpiper.
All in all, for a day that did not feel really birdy to many of us, we did alright. It will be interesting to see if the actual numbers of birds is lower than in past years.
Thanks to everyone who counted, to those who let us count on their land, and to the folks who just tagged along.
Cruz PhillipsLas Cruzitas Ranch
Date: 12/30/25 7:33 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] North County
All,
I started out by birding the Santa Maria River Mouth almost all the way down to Mussel Rock. I failed to find the LT Duck or any eiders. I did see 5 Black Scoters.
The river mouth had White-fronted, Snow and Ross's Geese. The gull flock included a couple of Thayer's Iceland Gulls. It was interesting to see the massive difference in RB Gull numbers between the SM River Mouth (>100) and the Santa Ynez River Mouth (<10).
The Black Road pasture held only a flock of coots. Ocean Park had a couple of Thayer's Iceland Gulls and lots of birds but nothing of real note.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Date: 12/30/25 5:41 pm From: Glenn Kincaid via groups.io <glenn...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Santa Barbara CBC Count Week
Greetings SBCO Birders,
Tomorrow begins the Count Week for our Christmas Bird Count. Birds seen during Count Week but not on Count Day are also reported, so if you see an i nteresting bird between Wednesday and next Tuesday please report these sightings (within the SB CBC Count Circle) via eBird, SBCO Birding, Slack, or to me directly.
Although the weather report is looking a bit soggy, getting out close to home and checking out your neighborhood, local parks, or churches can turn up some good birds.
Date: 12/30/25 4:44 pm From: Mark Bright via groups.io <pywiack...> Subject: [sbcobirding] San Marcos Foothills Greater Roadrunner
There was one Greater Roadrunner at the very north end of the "New Acquisition" area of San Marcos Foothills. Actually it was just in the orchard area north of the San Marcos open space. Otherwise one Loggerhead Shrike and one American Kestrel.
Date: 12/30/25 3:09 pm From: John Deacon via groups.io <iseekbirds...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Santa Maria-Guadalupe CBC Preliminary Results
All:
I'm still going over the data, but preliminarily it looks like we had 144 total species. In terms of rarities, we had a Long-tailed Duck, a Eurasian Wigeon, Snow Geese and a Ross's Goose. The Vermilion Flycatcher at Jack O'Connell Park ended up being a challenge as there was a basketball tournament and the parking lot was full and people were everywhere. Luckily, one of the Vermilion's was found over at the Guadalupe Water Treatment Plant.
The storms that occurred earlier in the week definitely mixed things up. The Santa Maria River mouth sand bridge blew out and instead of having a nice estuary, we ended up with a huge muddy area. We weren't even sure that we would be able to get in to do the count. The park was closed all day Friday and Saturday. Muddy conditions forced us to walk to some locations that we usually can drive to. Some farm roads that we use to check out ponds and lakes were impassable. One brave crew (Sarah Toner and Larry Chen) was able to log 109 species on Count Day! Probably not that unusual for the south coast, but up here it's unheard of.
Thanks to all those who participated. Looking forward to 2026!
John Deacon
<iseekbirds...>
---------------------------------------------
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 10:39 by Christof Demont-Heinrich
- Andree Clark Bird Refuge, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6572856&<ll...>,-119.6572856 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291237749 - Media: 1 Video, 1 Photo
- Comments: "We saw the tropical kingbird along the north end of the trail. It called twice and we heard the distinctive pip-pip-pip. It had a very bright yellow breast too. Will post a picture/video."
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) (1)
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 06:48 by Peter Schneekloth
- Grimm's Bluff Vineyard (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.0058611&<ll...>,-120.0058611 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291222959 - Comments: "I had multiple point blank looks as bird foraged in front of me. It took multiple views for Rough-winged to enter my ID thought process but once it did I had multiple strong views of brownish face, breast and flanks, darker brown upperparts white belly and undertail."
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (1)
- Reported Dec 29, 2025 08:25 by Mario Ramos
- 144–152 W Gutierrez St, Santa Barbara US-CA (34.4143,-119.6959), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.695914&<ll...>,-119.695914 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291074759 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Observed near one of the Mission Creek bridges. First detected by its distinctive vocalizations, then visually located as it perched briefly. I was able to make out several field marks though views were limited. I did not have my camera with me; however, I was able to obtain an audio recording of the bird vocalizing"
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (2)
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:42 by Eric Culbertson
- 320 N Nopal St, Santa Barbara US-CA 34.42399, -119.68445, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.684452&<ll...>,-119.684452 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291203869 - Comments: "2-3. First heard calling. Then found in the carrotwood trees on the north side of N Nopal street between parking lots here 34.42392° N, 119.68445° W. Similar in size to an orange-crowned warbler with a yellow hood, bold white eye-ring, unmarked pale gray underparts and green backs. I had this species in the exact same spot 2 or so years ago."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Dec 30, 2025 08:03 by Santiago Lupi
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291202011 - Comments: "Continuing. Notably bright yellow warbler with plain face. Was brightest yellow around face and breast with greenish-gray back and gray wing coverts. Pale yellow belly which faded into a white vent and undertail coverts. Was foraging both in the tipu tree closest to the Smart and Final, and on the parking lot below alongside a yellow-rumped warbler which was also foraging on the ground."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 29, 2025 11:26 by Andrea Bruce
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291119948 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird found in biggest/highest Italian Stone Pine on Santa Ynez Ave across from Memorial Park. Distinguishing feature was a bright yellow throat and breast. Head- yellow supercilium, black stripe from beak through eye, black crown. Gray upper parts with black stripes and dark wings. White belly with black stripes on sides/flanks. White UTC and white under tail with thin black side edges. Diagnostic photos."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 29, 2025 11:26 by Mario Borunda
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291114443 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird found in biggest/highest Italian Stone Pine on Santa Ynez Ave across from Memorial Park. Distinguishing feature was a bright yellow throat and breast. Head- yellow supercilium, black stripe from beak through eye, black crown. Gray upper parts with black stripes and dark wings. White belly with black stripes on sides/flanks. White UTC and white under tail with thin black side edges. Diagnostic photos."
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Poorwill (Phalaenoptilus nuttallii) (1)
- Reported Dec 28, 2025 19:00 by Cachuma CBC
- My driveway, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.05322&<ll...>,-120.05322 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291012218 - Comments: "Continuing. Small, cryptic, checked body, looks like a stone. Two birds that visit my driveway each winter. Crouched on the drive as the car approaches, each flutters up at the last second."
Common Poorwill (Phalaenoptilus nuttallii) (1)
- Reported Dec 28, 2025 19:00 by Laura Baldwin
- My driveway, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.05322&<ll...>,-120.05322 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S291010805 - Comments: "Continuing. Small, cryptic, checked body, looks like a stone. Two birds that visit my driveway each winter. Crouched on the drive as the car approaches, each flutters up at the last second."
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1)
- Reported Dec 28, 2025 09:00 by Bruce Hollingworth
- Guadalupe Waste water Plant, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.590299&<ll...>,-120.590299 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290885502 - Comments: "At least 1 Vermillion Flycatcher regularly winters at Jack O'Connell Park/Guadalupe Wastewater Treatment Plant every year for several years. Too much activity at Jack O'Connell Park today so it was found across the fence at the WTP."
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (1)
- Reported Dec 28, 2025 10:05 by Roger McWilliams
- Ennisbrook Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6226395&<ll...>,-119.6226395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290859643 - Comments: "First observation here for me. My home at UC Irvine has had them many years, approximately since Chinese students started attending and perhaps cage-released."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Dec 27, 2025 07:49 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/S290999232 - Comments: "Continuing at the peanut butter feeder and also foraging in the tangerine tree. . Small warbler with gray green head, white eye brow and dark eyeliner, gray green uppers, whitish underparts and under tail."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Dec 27, 2025 07:49 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/S291008474 - Comments: "Continuing at the peanut butter feeder and also foraging in the tangerine tree. . Small warbler with gray green head, white eye brow and dark eyeliner, gray green uppers, whitish underparts and under tail."
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1)
- Reported Dec 28, 2025 11:58 by David Compton
- 6515 Pardall Rd, Goleta US-CA (34.4131,-119.8543), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.854342&<ll...>,-119.854342 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290855938 - Comments: "Female type—all a slightly orangey yellow, with no wing bars and with a large, pale bill. First detected by voice. In iron bark eucalyptus at the IV/campus boundary."
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: 12/28/25 4:45 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Goleta Hermit Warbler
John Callender found a Hermit Warbler this morning in the Tipu trees at David Love Place (see the 3 locations shown in his photo below - posted on Slack). I found it later on foraging in the Tipu trees north of location 1.
Date: 12/28/25 2:53 pm From: Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> Subject: [sbcobirding] lower Atascadero Creek scouted
Mid-day had a BT Gray and 2 CB Chickadee. Earlier had a BT Gray at Mentor parking lot tipus. Ag fields had 100 Savannah Sp. and 12 Lincoln’s. Ron Hirst
Santa Barbara
Date: 12/28/25 2:41 pm From: Dave Compton via groups.io <davcompton60...> Subject: [sbcobirding] More IV/UCSB scouting
This morning, I scouted the Santa Ynez Apartments (northwest corner of Los Carneros x El Colegio) and a little of the border between Isla Vista and UCSB.
The best bird was a female-type SUMMER TANAGER in ironbark eucalyptus between Ocean Road and Isla Vista, just south of Pardall. It was in what was really the only tree with any significant number of pink blossoms. This area wasn't terribly birdy overall. At the Santa Ynez Apartments, a cluster of ironbark eucalyptus near the west edge of the property had lots of blossoms and a good number of birds, but nothing interesting. Another cluster nearer the eastern edge had no blossoms I could see. Some redgums along the bike path at the southeastern corner of the complex attracted a few birds. I continually heard what sounded like a Black-headed Grosbeak, but could see nothing in that area but Yellow Rumpeds.
This afternoon I birded Laguna Blanca in Hope Ranch. I went specifically to count Buffleheads as I recently saw a good number on the lake. I counted 114, though I believe this was on the low side as many of the birds were diving as I scanned. In BOSBC Paul states "the population in winter along the South Coast does not normally exceed 125 individuals" -- so, this is a good winter for them, at least locally.
Other ducks of interest: Redhead (2), Common Goldeneye (1st winter male), Blue-winged Teal (female).
Date: 12/28/25 1:30 pm From: John Deacon via groups.io <iseekbirds...> Subject: [sbcobirding] SM-Guadalupe CBC
Not all reports in but Peter had a Long-tailed Duck, Snow Goose and Ross’ Goose at Santa Maria estuary. Sarah had an Eurasian Wigeon at the big pond east of the Black Road pasture.
Date: 12/28/25 1:24 pm From: Kris Mainland White via groups.io <mainlandwhite...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Christmas Bird Count Dinner deadline
BIrders and friends are invited to join the compilation dinner for the
Santa Barbara Bird Count. It is time to sign up! Deadline is Dec. 31.
Saturday, Jan. 3 at 6 p.m.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Catered dinner will again feature generous helpings of: Jack’s meat or
vegetarian lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and renowned Joan Kent chocolate
chip cookies.
Participants may opt to bring their own picnic dinner as well.
Everyone, please bring your own beverage.
To reduce *single use waste*, many opt to bring their own cups, plates,
napkins and silverware.
Doors open at 5:30 for socializing.
The cost is $29.50 for either meat or vegetarian lasagna and includes all
fees. Links below
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) (1)
- Reported Dec 27, 2025 10:22 by Mark Holmgren
- Cachuma Lake--inflow area east of Rancho Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8936719&<ll...>,-119.8936719 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290674337 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "immature Aythya sp., probably GrSc. Head shape not like RnDu or LeSc, rounded and flat-topped. Larger black tip to bill than on most LeSc."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Dec 27, 2025 09:38 by David Compton
- Isla Vista west of Camino Pescadero, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.862858&<ll...>,-119.862858 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290601727 - Comments: "Female in hedge at Trigo x Camino Lindo. Giving single “Chet” notes consistent with this species, and I believe different from Hooded. Small size and green back also led me to Orchard. The bill did strike me as on the large side for Orchard, so I’m open to this being proven to be a Hooded. But I lean strongly Orchard."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Dec 27, 2025 10:40 by Michelle Sopoliga
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290591900 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing in parking area on cactus lane. In large tree in parking lot, closest to Roxanne’s. Warbler with solid bright yellow head, neck and chest, and belly, white undertail coverts, gray wings. Photo."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1)
- Reported Dec 27, 2025 08:56 by Eric Culbertson
- Catlin Circle, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5263&<ll...>,-119.5263 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290561668 - Comments: "Across the street from the intersection of Aragon and Santa Ynez in Italian stone pine. Yellow throat and face with black eye-line and yellow supercillium. Some heavy streaks down sides of breast. White and unmarked below with white undertail. Very active. Gave a muted high chip note. Continuing."
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: 12/27/25 4:32 pm From: Mark Bright via groups.io <pywiack...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Andrée Clark Bird Refuge
Didn't find a Common Merganser as was reported yesterday at the Bird Refuge, but I did see 1 male and 2 female Hooded Mergansers along the north side of the western island. Also 1 male and 2 female Wood Ducks from the 3rd platform looking at the reeds below where the miniature zoo train goes by. Also one Sharp-shinned Hawk and one Tropical Kingbird.
Date: 12/27/25 2:41 pm From: Dave Compton via groups.io <davcompton60...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Isla Vista scouting
I did a little CBC scouting in Isla Vista today. The best bird by far was an Orchard Oriole in a hedge on Trigo just east of Camino Lindo. After that, a single female Hooded Merganser and a Green Heron at Anisq'Oyo Park were the best birds. Tierra del Fortuna Park was pretty birdy, with some blue gums that are some of the more active I've seen. Sparrow numbers were surprisingly low, overall. There are usually a couple of pretty nice flocks of White-crowneds in western Isla Vista at this time of year, but I could not find more than about 5 Zonotrichias at a time.
Date: 12/27/25 1:55 pm From: Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Goleta Beach, lots of gulls
hundreds of gulls the last few days. No unusual gulls. 6 species studied at Gull Workshop this morning. Later a TK found near gas pipeline bridge.
Ron Hirst
Date: 12/27/25 11:49 am From: Cruz Phillips via groups.io <cruzitas...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Its count week for the Cachuma CBC
Today starts count week for the Cachuma CBC. We just got a Snipe on the Ranch and it reminded me to post that Count week for the Cachuma Count on December 30 starts today the 27th and the last day is January 2.
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 26, 2025 14:43 by Libby Patten
- 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/S290446080 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Heard twitter call first. Then perched close enough to show off its bright yellow underparts with lighter yellow near throat."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 26, 2025 16:21 by Aaron Maizlish
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290430686 - Comments: "Continuing bird, flew up from the backyard with honeysuckle in it into the Tipu. Clear views, large relatively unstreaked warbler with white undersides and yellow breast and head."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 26, 2025 12:01 by David Compton
- Via Diego, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7566402&<ll...>,-119.7566402 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290397563 - Comments: "Small, short-tailed warbler with dull yellow throat and upper breast; dingy whitish in belly, flanks, vent, and under tail coverts; gray under side of tail; short, spikey bill; and no wing bars. Gave a thin, sharp, not very loud chip. Was in Tipuana tipus at 3937 Via Diego, which a few doors up from the Bishop Diego tennis courts."
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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/
Thanks for all of your scouting reports thus far. The rain appears to have stopped for now and the next few days look favorable for some CBC Scouting. Report sightings of Target Species within the SB CBC Count Circle via eBird, SBCO Birding, Slack, or to me directly. We’d be especially happy to get reports from the following species, which to my knowledge have not been reported this month in the count circle:
Baltimore Oriole
Black-headed Grosbeak
Black-throated Gray Warbler
Brown Creeper
Burrowing Owl
Cassin’s Finch
Chipping Sparrow
Common Merganser
Eurasian Wigeon
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Greater Scaup
Hermit Warbler
Hooded Oriole
Mountain Chickadee
Nashville Warbler
Northern Pygmy-Owl
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Northern Saw-whet Owl
Orchard Oriole
Red Crossbill
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Red-naped Sapsucker
Rock Wren
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Ross’s Goose
Townsend’s Solitaire
Tricolored Blackbird
Vesper Sparrow
Violet-green Swallow
Virginia Rail
Western Flycatcher
Yellow Warbler
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
We will continue tracking Target Bird sightings between now and count day using Steve Colwell’s wonderful tool BirdView. The link below will take you to a BirdView search showing Target Bird sightings between December 1 and Count Day within the count circle. (As December progresses the data for this search will be updated daily.)
Also, we’ve heard from some folks that they’re seeing more birds around their neighborhood than at their favorite birding spots, so a wander around your neighborhood may also turn up some interesting birds.
Date: 12/26/25 2:36 pm From: Dave Compton via groups.io <davcompton60...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Via Diego Tennessee Warbler, Pesetas Lane
Hi folks,
I did a little CBC scouting in my neighborhood this afternoon. The best bird was a TENNESSEE WARBLER in tipus at 3937 Via Diego. This is just up the street from La Colina where a little sidewalk leads into a small group of condos situated between Via Diego and Bishop High School, which is to the west.
Overall, this area, like most areas featuring tipus, was not as birdy as in recent years, with Yellow-rumpeds, in particular, in low numbers. Birds like Townsend's Warblers and Ruby-crowned Kinglets aren't down as much as the Yellow-rumpeds. So it's still worth checking these places.
Afterward, I birded both sides of Pesetas Lane, which really drives home that the activity levels are lower tipu-dominated places than elsewhere. While the tipus in the CenCal lot are not very active, the ironbark (pink-blooming) eucalyptus in the lot on the north side of the Sansum Clinic are jumping. I didn't find anything unusual, but there are lots of Yell0ow-rumpeds and hummingbirds here. It's certainly worth another look before count day. Note that I also checked the tipus in the Bishop Diego lot on the north side of La Colina, and they were very quiet.
I'll be checking more places with ironbark eucalyptus in the days to come.
Date: 12/26/25 5:36 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Bullock's Oriole (2 reports)
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 25, 2025 11:16 by Lori Gaskin
- Santa Barbara Yard List, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7052314&<ll...>,-119.7052314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290193663 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Male. Black eyeline and throat stripe. Yellow/brown head and yellow throat blending to white breast. Visiting my suet feeder. Had a female type BUOR yesterday at same feeder. Poor iPhone photos."
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 25, 2025 11:16 by Rick Boyer
- Santa Barbara Yard List, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7052314&<ll...>,-119.7052314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290193996 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Male. Black eyeline and throat stripe. Yellow/brown head and yellow throat blending to white breast. Visiting my suet feeder. Had a female type BUOR yesterday at same feeder. Poor iPhone photos."
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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/
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii) (1)
- Reported Dec 24, 2025 15:15 by Lori Gaskin
- Santa Barbara Yard List, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7052314&<ll...>,-119.7052314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290067509 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Shocked to see this female-type BUOR at my suet feeder once the downpour stopped. Yellow/orange head and throat. Pale eyeline. Yellow supercilium. Grayish back. Poor iPhone photos."
Bullock's Oriole (Icterus bullockii) (1)
- Reported Dec 24, 2025 15:15 by Rick Boyer
- Santa Barbara Yard List, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.7052314&<ll...>,-119.7052314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290067676 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Shocked to see this female-type BUOR at my suet feeder once the downpour stopped. Yellow/orange head and throat. Pale eyeline. Yellow supercilium. Grayish back. Poor iPhone photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Dec 24, 2025 12:38 by Zach Nett
- Cactus Lane Tipu, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5186087&<ll...>,-119.5186087 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S290080472 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "continuing bird. showed up after I stood in the rain for 25 minutes. it quickly flew off into the neighboring yard, but eventually returned and gave great views for fiveish minutes. beautiful bird. bright, orangey yellow head, grey wings, white unders. loosely associating with the yellow-rumpeds."
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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) (1)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 12:03 by Alice Abela
- Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6003785&<ll...>,-120.6003785 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289929894 - Comments: "This bird twice circled over my head. This was at 6:19 AM. I saw only the outline of the bird from about 25 feet while it circled overhead. Medium-sized owl, much like a Long-eared owl in size and shape. The main identifying features were the vehemence of its response to playback and the setting I and the owl were in: estuarine and estuary upland."
Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) (1)
- Reported Dec 23, 2025 14:15 by Stephanie Little
- Los Alamos Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.2791357&<ll...>,-120.2791357 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289921977 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Posting for a friend who accidentally caught this bird at his Los Alamos residence while trapping house sparrows. Not chaseable since I’m not posting the address but he lives in town. Drab green bird but showed “emerald green” highlights in the sunlight. Foraging on ground for seed. The bird was released and continued to stay and feed on millet alongside other ground foraging birds."
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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: 12/23/25 5:05 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] American Herring Gull status in the county
All,
The ebird review team for the county has recently been conducting a review of records of American Herring Gull records in the county. Given that many birders have problems with gulls, it was unsurprising that we found quite a few problems.
One important fact to note is that there is significant difference in the status of this species between the N and S Coasts. At favored locations on the N Coast, such as the Santa Ynez and Santa Maria RIver Mouths, you can reasonably expect to see a few American Herring Gulls provided there is a decent gull flock present and on good days double digit counts are regular.
On the South Coast, I would say that American Herring Gulls should not be expected anywhere, although if you regularly check the better gull spots like LLC, Goleta Beach and Mission Creek outflow, you will certainly see 1 or 2 birds on some visits. Numbers can get a little higher from mid-March to early April when migrants pass N through the area, but a count of five birds is a good one.
One point to emphasize is data entry errors. Some of the records I unconfirmed lacked a count for California Gulls and it is very likely that the person simply entered the CAGU total by mistake in the Herring Gull box.
I just got through clearing out every count of American Herring Gull of over 7 on the S Coast, with the exception of one by me in spring migration. The good news is that none of these were by regular local birders. However, I would encourage folks to photograph any putative American Herring Gulls. The review team can then provide feedback if there is an issue.
Regards,
Nick Lethaby
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Date: 12/23/25 10:46 am From: Glenn Kincaid via groups.io <glenn...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Paucity of blooming eucs on Riviera
There are a good number of blooming Eucs around the UCSB Lagoon. Despite diligent searching on the past couple of visits I could not turn up any Orioles, which seem to be in very short supply this season.
> On Dec 23, 2025, at 8:20 AM, Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> wrote:
>
> Perhaps there are blooming eucs in other areas (Montecito, …). No eucs, no flowers, no orioles, no warblers, etc. Birding grim on Riviera, will explore Goleta/Atascadero/MariaYgnacio.
> Best, Ron Hirst
>
>
Date: 12/23/25 10:23 am From: Hugh Ranson via groups.io <zonetail1...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Buffleheads
This morning I made a quick stop at Laguna Blanca. In the dim light, and through binoculars only, I counted a minimum of 85 Buffleheads. I only counted the males of the many that were distant, so there's a good likelihood of a three-digit number at the lake. Pretty impressive.
This morning Paul Lehman reported that there are two dozen Cave Swallows at the Salton Sea, and one was seen in Ventura County yesterday. If you see a swallow with a buffy rump like a Cliff Swallow, try to get photos, and please get the word out right away!
Date: 12/23/25 8:20 am From: Ron Hirst via groups.io <ronhirst...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Paucity of blooming eucs on Riviera
Perhaps there are blooming eucs in other areas (Montecito, …). No eucs, no flowers, no orioles, no warblers, etc. Birding grim on Riviera, will explore Goleta/Atascadero/MariaYgnacio.
Best, Ron Hirst
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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 safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) (1)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 17:40 by Paul Hughes
- Arroyo Quemada Lane, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.1102317&<ll...>,-120.1102317 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289729634 - Comments: "Finishing a hike around Baron ranch. so birding was not my primary purpose. Observed approximately here 34.471511, -120.115968 just past the gate for the Baron Ranch trail. The owl was perched on power line and I had a good views as I was wearing a head torch. Medium sized owl, pale heavily streaked breast. Dark eye patches, no visible ear tuffs. Observed for approximately 10 seconds, before the bird made a single rasphy bark and flew to the east."
Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) (1)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 12:03 by Mark Holmgren
- Ocean Beach County Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6003785&<ll...>,-120.6003785 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289641082 - Comments: "This bird twice circled over my head. This was at 6:19 AM. I saw only the outline of the bird from about 25 feet while it circled overhead. Medium-sized owl, much like a Long-eared owl in size and shape. The main identifying features were the vehemence of its response to playback and the setting I and the owl were in: estuarine and estuary upland."
Greater Pewee (Contopus pertinax) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 22, 2025 13:00 by Sammy Cowell
- Ennisbrook Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6226395&<ll...>,-119.6226395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289766673 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird seen foraging in the euc grove approximately here: (34.4359921, -119.6188047). Large Contopus flycatcher with shaggy crest and bright orange mandible. Mostly silent, but did give some soft calls. Got some good photos of it eating a bee/wasp and a Monarch."
Greater Pewee (Contopus pertinax) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 22, 2025 13:00 by Frank DeMartino
- Ennisbrook Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6226395&<ll...>,-119.6226395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289782439 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird seen foraging in the euc grove approximately here: (34.4359921, -119.6188047). Large Contopus flycatcher with shaggy crest and bright orange mandible. Mostly silent, but did give some soft calls. Got some good photos of it eating a bee/wasp and a Monarch."
Greater Pewee (Contopus pertinax) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 22, 2025 13:00 by Carol Langford
- Ennisbrook Open Space, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6226395&<ll...>,-119.6226395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289779599 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird seen foraging in the euc grove approximately here: (34.4359921, -119.6188047). Large Contopus flycatcher with shaggy crest and bright orange mandible. Mostly silent, but did give some soft calls. Got some good photos of it eating a bee/wasp and a Monarch."
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Dec 22, 2025 07:22 by Armando Aispuro
- 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/S289703626 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "I heard a punctuating triplet chattery call that was unfamiliar around the oaks just inside the white gate to COPR (34.4107792, -119.8775882). I then saw a chunky bird fly to the palm tree above the white gate and got good looks at a female Summer Tanager; uniform dusky-yellow belly, vent and under-tail coverts with back and wings approaching a uniform olivaceous color. The face was also olive-yellow and the bill was large and robust. The color of the bill was dark gray with pale yellow fringes at the gape. It then flew towards the Campbell Mansion and I lost it in some Eucalyptus trees near the mansion. It was calling regularly during my 7 minute observation."
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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/
One in the tipus along the playground at Monroe School in Santa Barbara. Accessible from Elings Park but only, of course, when school isn't in session.
Date: 12/22/25 1:33 pm From: Wim van Dam via groups.io <wim.van.dam...> Subject: [sbcobirding] San Lorenzo Seminary, 2025-12-22
Today at San Lorenzo Seminary I had 1 FERRUGINOUS HAWK and 1 LEWIS'S WOODPECKER. Both are continuing birds, which is good news for the Cachuma CBC. Also present was a flock of about 25 WHITE-THROATED SWIFT.
At Armour Ranch Road was another LEWIS'S WOODPECKER and a NORTHERN HARRIER.
Date: 12/22/25 9:50 am From: John Callender via groups.io <callender.john...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Carpinteria CBC preliminary results
We had a great CBC in Carpinteria last Saturday, with perfect weather and some cooperative continuing rarities. Sixty birders reported a preliminary total of 160 species, with highlights including:
* The continuing Prothonotary Warbler at Cactus Lane
* The continuing Grace's Warbler at Caitlin Circle
* Two different Tropical Kingbirds (one at El Carro Park, the other at the Loon Point parking on Padaro Lane)
* A Burrowing Owl roosting on the sandspit near the mouth of the Carpinteria Salt Marsh
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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.
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Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Provisional) (3)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 09:15 by Luke Jensen
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289615513 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Went through pine tree where grace's hangs out in the back of catlin circle calling. The first one was pretty quite and left quickly but gave great views. The next 2 were way more noisy and more jumpy, probably a pair. There might be more in the area. pics"
Hooded Oriole (Icterus cucullatus) (1)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 06:56 by John Deacon
- Hibbits Ranch (Restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.426829&<ll...>,-120.426829 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289548419 - Comments: "I heard the chattery call of an oriole. What appeared to be a young male flew onto the power line directly above me. He had a black throat that appeared to be limited to only his throat. From below he appeared to be a greenish yellow color. Slightly decurved beak."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 07:39 by Rob Farber
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289634772 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "In the oft-reported pine at the northwest corner of Catlin Circle at 34.406609, -119.527571. Was at the south side of the tree, which seems its preference from my one other visit; then flew off southeast and was later found by Alex in nearby courtyard pine at 34.406242, -119.527280. After 20-30 mins of foraging then preening for a bit it flew back towards the original tree."
Grace's Warbler (Setophaga graciae) (1)
- Reported Dec 21, 2025 07:39 by Steve Colwell
- Carpinteria Valley Memorial Park, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.525857&<ll...>,-119.525857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S289599168 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "In the oft-reported pine at the northwest corner of Catlin Circle at 34.406609, -119.527571. Was at the south side of the tree, which seems its preference from my one other visit; then flew off southeast and was later found by Alex in nearby courtyard pine at 34.406242, -119.527280. After 20-30 mins of foraging then preening for a bit it flew back towards the original tree."
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/
