Date: 4/21/24 7:21 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] [EXT]SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--21 Apr 2024
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Hi, birders,
A dozen folks from AZ, MI, MT, NM, and UT walked the Sierra Vista EOP dikes this morning, noting 80 species, which were augmented by some additional species heard during a predawn count (think Great Horned Owl, Crissal Thrasher, and Black-throated Sparrow, all vocal while it is still dark), for a total tally of 83 species.
Ducks are becoming thin on the water, although we still found 9 species, with a lingering female Bufflehead adding spice. We found a good mix of long-legged waders, with one each of Green Heron, Great Egret, and Great Blue Heron, plus 6 White-faced Ibis.
More rewarding was finding a variety of shorebirds, with a flock of 18 American Avocets, 4 Killdeer, 2 Wilson's Snipe, 2 Spotted Sandpipers, and one each of Solitary Sandpiper, Greater Yellowlegs, and Least Sandpiper. Am. Coot numbers have dropped dramatically, while Sora hung on with 3 calling birds, and finally, near the end of the walk, 1 Virginia Rail added its voice.
Seven species of flycatcher included 4 different Western Wood Pewees. Though not uncommon in wooded areas, this species is rare at the EOP. Today's four birds tied the high count previously set in late May 2011, and was only the third April record for the EOP Sunday walks.
Bird walks behind the locked gates of the Sierra Vista EOP occur every Sunday morning. For the spring months (March-May) walks start promptly at *7:00 a.m.* Arrive early at the EOP Bird Viewing Platform to sign in with the guide--group size is limited to fifteen. Late arrivals will not have access behind the locked gates. Scopes are useful. Bring a hat and water--there is no shade nor any amenities on the walk route. There is a chem toilet in the parking area.
The EOP is located just east (~ 3 miles) of Sierra Vista on AZ Hwy 90. Look for the Brua Animal Care Center and the Wildlife Viewing signs on the north side of Hwy 90. Turn left (north) and proceed to the bird viewing platform. Note that Google Maps may direct you to the wrong entrance.
Cheers, Erika Wilson
-- Erika Wilson, Sierra Vista, AZ Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
