Date: 4/25/18 3:15 am From: Joyce Takamine <jabirujt...> Subject: [cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert, 25 April 2018
Compiler: Joyce Takamine
Date: April 25, 2018
e-mail: RBA AT cobirds.org
This is the Rare Bird Alert for Wednesday, April 25 sponsored by Denver
Field Ornithologists and the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies.
Highlight species include: (* indicates new information on this species)
NOTE: The RBA is now using the new AOU checklist and the order of families
has changed.
Snow Goose (Arapahoe, *Park)
Greater White-fronted Goose (Prowers, Rio Grande)
Trumpeter Swan (*Archuleta)
Tundra Swan (Prowers)
Greater Scaup (*Mesa, Montrose)
Red-breasted Mergaser (Kiowa, Montezuma, *Park)
CALIFORNIA QUAIL (Moffat)
Sharp-tailed Grouse (Weld)
Red-necked Grebe (*Park)
Clark’s Grebe (*Rio Blanco)
White-winged Dove (El Paso)
Greater Roadrunner (Kiowa)
White-throated Swift (Pueblo)
Virginia Rail (Chaffee)
Black-necked Stilt (Chaffee, Weld)
Mountain Plover (El Paso)
Upland Sandpiper (*Prowers)
Whimbrel (Kiowa)
Long-billed Curlew (Archuleta, El Paso, Kiowa, *Larimer, Weld)
Marbled Godwit (Archuleta, El Paso, Kiowa, *Larimer, *Park)
Sanderling (Kiowa)
Dunlin (*Rio Blanco)
Baird’s Sandpiper (El Paso, Weld)
Least Sandpiper (El Paso, Kit Carson)
Pectoral Sandpiper (Larimer)
Semipalmated Sandpiper (*Douglas, El Paso, Kit Carson, *Rio Blanco)
Western Sandpiper (Archuleta, Mesa, Weld)
Long-billed Dowitcher (El Paso)
Solitary Sandpiper (*Mesa, Weld)
Willet (*Larimer, Montezuma)
Wilson’s Phalarope (Boulder, El Paso, Kit Carson, *Larimer, *Park, Pueblo,
Weld)
Red-necked Phalarope (Weld)
Bonaparte’s Gull (*Park)
Iceland Gull (Kiowa, *Weld)
Caspian Tern (*Rio Blanco, Weld)
Forster’s Tern (Montezuma)
Red-throated Loon (Kiowa)
Neotropic Cormorant (Kiowa)
American White Pelican (Douglas)
Snowy Egret (Rio Blanco)
Little Blue Heron (Kiowa)
Cattle Egret (Rio Blanco)
Glossy Ibis (*El Paso)
White-faced Ibis (*El Paso, Weld)
Turkey Vulture (Douglas)
Northern Goshawk (Larimer)
Broad-winged Hawk (El Paso, Washington)
Rough-legged Hawk (Washington, Weld, Yuma)
Ferruginous Hawk (*Mesa)
Ladder-backed Woodpecker (El Paso)
Hairy Woodpecker (Weld)
Gray Flycatcher (Boulder, Jefferson, Kit Carson)
Dusky Flycatcher (Montrose)
Eastern Phoebe (Boulder, Chaffee, El Paso, Jefferson)
Cassin’s Kingbird (Denver)
Cassin’s Vireo (*Baca)
Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay (Adams)
Chihuahuan Raven (*Baca, Kiowa)
Common Raven (Weld)
Violet-green Swallow (Jefferson, Weld)
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (*Gunnison, Moffat)
Bank Swallow (Gunnison, *Rio Blanco)
Cliff Swallow (Moffat)
Mountain Chickadee (*Lincoln, *Weld)
Bushtit (*Weld)
Rock Wren (*Park)
Marsh Wren (*Gunnison)
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (El Paso, Kit Carson, Pueblo)
Eastern Bluebird (El Paso)
Gray Catbird (Boulder)
Brown Thrasher (Pueblo)
Sage Thrasher (Boulder)
Northern Mockingbird (Broomfield, El Paso, Pueblo)
American Pipit (Kiowa)
Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (Jackson)
Brown-capped Rosy-Finch (Jackson)
Red Crossbill (Boulder)
Chestnut-collared Longspur (Weld)
McCown’s Longspur (*Douglas, Weld)
Chipping Sparrow (Logan, Montezuma)
Lark Sparrow (El Paso)
Black-throated Sparrow (Otero)
Sagebrush Sparrow (Boulder)
Fox Sparrow (Boulder)
Harris’s Sparrow (Denver, El Paso)
Yellow-breasted Chat (Larimer)
Brown-headed Cowbird (El Paso, Kit Carson, Yuma)
Orange-crowned Warbler (Kit Carson)
LUCY’S WARBLER (El Paso, *Montezuma)
Nashville Warbler (*El Paso)
Yellow-throated Warbler (*Baca)
Wilson’s Warbler (El Paso, Pueblo)
Summer Tanager (*Montezuma)
ADAMS COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Sand Creek Park, George Ho reported Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay.
ALAMOSA COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Blanca Wetlands NWR, Alex Mullins and Ricky Martinez
reported 2 Snowy Plovers.
ARCULETA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Navajo SP and Reservoir, Charles Martinez and Jean
Zirnheld reported Long-billed Curlew, 5 Marbled Godwits, 4 Western
Sandpipers.
---On April 24 at Pinon Lake Reservoir, Charles Martinez reported Trumpeter
Swan.
BACA COUNTY:
---On April 24 in town of Campo, Tony Leukering reported Yellow-throated
Warbler, 2 Cassin’s Vireos, and Chihuahuan Raven.
BOULDER COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Boulder Creek and 75th St, Matt Hofeditz, Mary O’Connor,
Jonathan Montgomery, Dan Zmolek, and Leslie S reported Eastern Phoebe;
Katie Lehman reported Fox Sparrow; Ernest Crvich reported 2 Eastern
Phoebe. On April 23 at Boulder Creek and 5th St, Eric DeFonso and Candice
Johnson reported Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 22 at Lagerman Reservoir, Luke Pheneger reported Sage Thrasher.
---On April 22 at Bear Creek Path, Ted Floyd reported Gray Flycatcher
---On April 23 in Louisville on South Boulder Road, Paula Hansley reported
Red Crossbill (type 4).
CHAFFEE COUNTŸ:
---On April 22 at Mount Shavano Fish Hatchery, Christian Hagenlocher
reported Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 22 at Sands Lake SWA, Christian Hagenlocher reported 2 Eastern
Phoebe.
---On April 22 at Buena Vista Ice Pond (view from road), Christian
Hagnelocher reported Black-necked Stilt.
DENVER COUNTY:
---On April 22 at First Creek at DEN OS, Anna Troth, Gregg Goodrich, and
Cole Sage reported Harris’s Sparrow. On April 23 at First Creek at DEN OS,
Ginny Bergstrom and Chris Brobin reported Harris’s Sparrow.
---On April 21 at Marston Reservoir Complex, Doug Kibbe, Elaine Wagner
MacKenzie Goldthwait, and Art Hudak reported Willet.
---On April 23 at Bluff Lake Nature Center, John Cobb reported Cassin’s
Kingbird.
DOUGLAS COUNTY:
---On April 24 at Chatfield SP Model Airplan Field, Loch Kilpatrick
reported McCown’s Longspur.
---On April 24 at Chatfield SP Marina Sandspit, Loch Kilpatrick reported
Semipalmated Sandpiper.
EL PASO COUNTY:
---On April 14 at Sinton Ponds OS, David Tonnessen and Jim Merritt
reported LUCY’S WARBLER. On April 22 at Sinton Pond OS, Brandon Percival
and several other birders reported LUCY’S WARBLER; Jim Merritt reported
White-winged Dove, Renee Casias reported Nashville Warbler. On April 23 at
Sinton Pond OS, Terence Berger reported LUCY’S WARBLER; Chris Brobin
reported Nashville Warbler. On April 24 at Sinton Pond OS, Chris Brobin
reported Nashville Warbler.
---On April 22 at Fountain Creek RP, Brandon Percival and Jim Merritt
reported Broad-winged Hawk near Rice’s Pond.
---On April 22 at Chico Basin Ranch, wooded areas, Colin Woolley reported
pair of Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Northern Mockingbird, Blue-gray
Gnatcatcher, 2 Wilson’s Warblers, 6 Brown-headed Cowbirds. On April 23 at
Chico Basin Ranch Bell Grove, Ken Burton reported 2 Ladder-backed
Woodpeckers.
---On April 22 at Ramah Reservoir SWA, John Drummond and David Tonnessen
reported Marbled Godwit, 2 Long-billed Dowitchers, 4 Least Sandpipers,
Semipalmated Sandpiper, 5 Baird’s Sandpipers, 3 Wilson’s Phalarope, and m
Eastern Bluebird.
---On April 22 on Santa Fe Trail, Christine Hubbell reported Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 24 on Shumway Road outside of Fountain, Cici Lee reported 25 0
30 White-faced Ibis with possible Glossy Ibis in a wet field on east side
of road.
GUNNISON COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Gunnison Whitewater Park, Christopher Burney reported
Bank Swallow.
---On April 24 at McCabes Lane Wetland, Riley Morris reported 2 Northern
Rough-winged Swallows and Marsh Wren.
JACKSON COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Moose Visitor Center, Jacob Cuomo reported 2 Gray-crowned
Rosy-Finch and 42 Brown-capped Rosy-Finch.
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Belmar Park, Jesse Casias and Renee Casias reported Gray
Flycatcher at NW end of second pond on horse trail.
KIOWA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Neenoshe Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow and David Ely reported
Red-throated Loon, 4 Red-breasted Mergansers, 2 Little Blue Heron, and
Greated Roadrunner.
---On April 22 at Upper Queens/Neeskah Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow and David
Ely reported 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, Neotropic Cormorant, 5 Whimbrel,
Long-billed Curlew, 3 Marbled Godwit, 2 Sanderling, 2 Chihuahuan Raven.
LARIMER COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Arapahoe Bend NA Rigden Reservoir (Strauss Cabin Lake),
Lori Zabel land Jay Breidt reported Pectoral Sandpiper and 2 Willet. On
April 24 at Arapahoe Bend NA Rigden Reservoir (Strauss Cabin Lake), Josh
Bruening reported 24 Marbled Godwits, Willet, Long-billed Dowitcher, 4
Wilson’s Phalaropes.
---On April 22 at Horsetooth Mountain OS, Arvid Panjabi reported
Yellow-breasted Chat.
LINCOLN COUNTY:
---On April 24 in Hugo, Cameron Carver reported 2 Mountain Chickadees in SE
corner of cemetery.
MESA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Ela Wildlife Sanctuary, Mike Henwood reported 2 Solitary
sandpipers. On April 23 at Ela Wildlife Sanctuary, Bob Clarke reported 3
Solitary Sandpipers. On April 24 at Ela Wildlife Sanctuary, Mike Henwood
reported 2 Solitary Sandpipers.
---On April 24 in Mack Mesa Airport Area to Highline Lake SP, Mike Henwood
reported Greater Scaup.
---On April 24 on Brewster’s Ridge/Bar X Wash, Mike Henwood reported
Ferruginous Hawk.
MOFFAT COUNTY:
---On April 9 Dinosaur National Monument Canyon Area Visitor Center, Kenny
Frisch photographed a CALIFORNIA QUAIL a first time in Colorado. On April
23 at Dinosaur National Monument Canyon Area Visitor Center, Gregg Goodrich
and John Drummond reported CALIFORNIA QUAIL heard.
MONTEZUMA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Totten Reservoir, Glenn Dunmire and Erick Hendrickson
reported Willet. On April 23 at Totten Reservoir, Erick Hendrickson
reported f Red-breasted Merganser and Forster’s Tern.
---On April 22 at Summit Lake, Glenn Dunmire and Erick Hendrickson reported
Willet.
---On April 24 in Yellowjacket Canyon/ G Road area, Susan Allerton reported
7 Lucy’s Warblers and 1 m Summer Tanager. Allerton reported that there
were probable 5 territories along this stretch of Yellowjacket Canyon.
OTERO COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Commanch NG, Carl Bendorf reported 2 Black-throated
Sparrows on CR E.
PARK COUNTY:
---On April 24 at Antero Reservoir, David Dowell reported 12 Red-breasted
Mergansers, 4 Snow Geese, 3 Wilson’s Phalarope, Marbled Godwit.
---On April 24 at Spinney Mountain Reservoir, David Dowell reported 2
Marbled Godwits, 2 Red-necked Grebe, Rock Wren, 3 Wilson’s Phalarope, and
14 Bonaparte’s Gulls.
PROWERS COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Northgate (Arkansas River and US 50), Steve Mlodinow
reported 3 Greater White-fronted Geese and Tundra Swan.
---On April 24 on US 50 East of CR 16, Cameron Carver reported Upland
Sandpiper.
PUEBLO COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Chico Basin Ranch, Brandon Percival reported Wilson’s
Warbler, 12 Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, 12 Wilson’s Phalarope, and Northern
Mockingbird.
---On April 22 at Valco Ponds, Time Leppek reported Brown Thrasher.
RIO BLANCO COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Kenney Reservoir, Gregg Goodrich, John Drummond, and Lisa
Edwards reported Cattle Egret and Snowy Egret.
---On April 24 at Rio Blanco SWA, Gregg Goodrich reported Clark’s Grebe,
Caspian Tern, and 2 Bank Swallows.
---On April 24 at XTO Retention Pond, Gregg Goodrich reported Semipalmated
Sandpiper and Dunlin.
WASHINGTON COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Hwy 64 between CR 14 and CR 15, Dan Brooke et at reported
Rough-legged Hawk.
---On April 22 at Prewitt Reservoir, Dan Brooke et al reported
Broad-winged Hawk.
---On April 22 at Akron Golf Course, Dan Brooke et al reported Broad-winged
Hawk.
---On April 23 on Hwy 34 between CR S and CR U, Sue Riffe reported
Rough-legged Hawk.
WELD COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Union Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow reported 2 Caspian Terns.
---On April 22 at Firestone Gravel Pits (view from road), Gene Rutherford,
Doug Kibbe et al, and Ginny Bergstrom reported 5 Caspian Terns.
---On April 22 on Hwy 392 SW of intersection of CR 69 and CR 74, Doug Kibbe
et al reported Rough-legged Hawk.
---On April 22 on CR 134 E of CR 111, Doug Kibbe et al reported 18
Sharp-tailed Grouse and 2 Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 22 on CR 115, Doug Kibbe et al reported Sharp-tailed Grouse.
---On April 22 at Eaton Cemetery, Gene Rutherford reported 3 Mountain
Chickadee. On April 24 at Eaton Cemetery, Steve Mlodinow reported 2
Mountain Chickadee.
---On April 22 on CR 100 east of CR 45, Bill Fink reported
Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 22 3 miles west on Murphy’s Pasture Rd, Bill Fink reported
McCown’s Longspur.
---On April 22 at Loloff Reservoir, Bill Fink reported 4 Black-necked
Stilts and Wilson’s Phalarope.
---On April 22 at Beebe Draw, Bill Fink reported Western Sandpiper.
---On April 22 3 miles S of Birggsdale, Bill Fink reported Rough-legged
Hawk.
---On April 22 at Pawnee NG, Jacob Cuomo reported Long-billed Curlew, 9
Baird’s Sandpipers, Solitary Sandpiper, Common Raven, and m McCown’s
Longspur.
---On April 23 at Norma’s Grove, Gene Rutherford reported Hairy Woodpecker
(Rocky Mt).
---On April 23 on CR 40 between CR 45 and CR 47, Gene Rutherford reported
basic plumaged Red-necked Phalarope.
---On April 24 at Glenmere Park in Greeley, Steve Mlodinow reported 3
Bushtit and 2 Mountain Chickadee.
---On April 24 at Windsor Lake, Steve Mlodinow reported Iceland (Thayer’s)
Gull.
YUMA COUNTY:
---On April 23 on W 8th Ave in Yuma, Sue Riffe reported Rough-legged Hawk.
DFO Field Trips:
For details please visit the DFO website dfobirds.org
Friday, April 27 – Saturday April 28
1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Cortez led by Gregg Goodrich (GreggGoodrich AT gmail.com; 303-655-9135)
Saturday, April 28
6:00-AM – 6:00 PM
Poudre River and Poudre Canyon led by Chris Goulart (cgoular001 AT
comast.net; 586-764-2126) This trip is FULL.
Saturday, April 28
7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Walden Pond Wildlife Habitat/Sawhill led by Chuck Hundertmark
(chundertmark8 AT gmail.com; 303-604-0531)
Sunday, April 29
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Chico Basin Ranch led by Mark Amershek (mamershek AT msn.com;
303-329-8646) This trip is FULL
Sunday April 29
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Rocky Mountain Arsenal NWR led by Candice Johnson (candice.johnson AT
childrenscolorado.org; 303-329-8131)
Sunday, April 29
8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Roxborough State Park led by Alison Kondler (birdtrills AT gmail.com;
303-904-9140) This trip is FULL.
Had a hunch that the weather would knock some birds out of the sky today so I headed to Rigden Reservoir after work. There was good shorebird turnover from yesterday and the beautiful weather we experienced was drastically different today. This spot is quickly becoming one of my favorites in Fort Collins for waterfowl and shorebirds. I ended up with 68 species in two hours worth of walking and scoping. I witnessed something today I wanted to share. I was observing 2 Least Sandpipers on the northern shore when they suddenly dipped parallel to the water with their bills in the water. I thought perhaps they had become aware of my presence because they were doing their best "I'm a rock" impression by not moving a muscle. One of them quickly looked up toward the sky and away from me. That reaction caused me to do the same. Lo and behold, or should I say High and behold, above me was a Peregrine cruising by. Most are familiar with Blue Jays or Magpies tipping off the location of a Hawk or an Owl but I'm always amazed at how taking the time to watch a bird's behavior can lead to another observation I may not have made had I not been paying attention. I always wonder how many other opportunities I miss. Certainly, prey that are birds can help us locate those birds of prey. They know what to look for far better than I. Other highlights:
26-Marbled Godwits-SW corner (not here yesterday) 1-Willet-looked to be of the western ilk (not here yesterday) 1-Long-billed Dowitcher (not here yesterday) 4-Wilson's Phalaropes (FOS) (not here yesterday) Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs 11-American Avocets 2-Least Sandpipers 3-peeps that I suspect were Westerns but never got adequate looks. All 6 species of expected Colorado Swallows. I reported the individuals I counted on Ebird but also guestimated 800 swallow sp. which was probably very low. 2-Virginia Rails sounding off with their grunt displays 1-Clark's Grebe which was also present yesterday Raptors!-Bald Eagle, Osprey, Red-Tailed, Cooper's, Northern Harrier, Peregrine, and American Kestrel, Swainson's Hawk.
No previously reported Stilt or Pectoral Sandpipers yesterday or today.
The wind returns on Thursday and hopefully brings down some new birds but might keep some others in town for a day or two.
Date: 4/24/18 5:39 pm From: Chip Clouse <chip.clouse...> Subject: [cobirds] Nesting raptor locations? - Jeffco, northern Douglas, western Arapahoe area
COBirders, I know this is a highly controversial topic but I am asking for the leader of the upcoming Denver Audubon field trips this weekend.
If you have information that would help with these educational field trips (where the importance of keeping your distance, observing with scopes, and not doing anything to lead nest predators or unsavory characters to disturb the nesting cycle will be taught) I would appreciate a private response I can pass along.
Bald Eagle, Great horned Owl and Red-tailed Hawk nest locations are known so specific observation opportunities for falcons, accipiters, other owls (only if easily visible from afar like burrowing owls), Swainson's Hawks, Northern Harriers, and/or Golden Eagles, especially within 10-15 miles or so of the Audubon Center at Chatfield, would be greatly appreciated.
Date: 4/24/18 2:15 pm From: 'loch kilpatrick' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] McClown's Longspur, many Vessper Sparrowsat Chatfield.
I was able to find one McClown's longspur in with many Vessper sparrows ,Savannah sparrows at the model airplane field parking lot at Chatfield reservoir.
Date: 4/24/18 11:43 am From: Suke C Lee <mclee72...> Subject: [cobirds] Ibises, El Paso Co
There are 25-30 White-faced Ibises in the wet field on the east side of Shumway Rd, Fountain. Shumway runs north-south, just east of the Squirrel Creek Rd Reservoir. One looks good for GLOSSY ibis, Also there: one Franklin Gull(pink glow), Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs, Loggrehead Shrike. Good birding, Cecile Lee Elbert,CO
Date: 4/24/18 8:10 am From: <joe......> <joega140...> Subject: [cobirds] More on Steller's X Blue Jay hybrid
I have seen Blue Jay here in Woodland Park a few times over the past 2 years, but I do hear them regularly in Green Mountain Falls which is only about 7 miles away and 700 feet lower elevation, so there is range overlap with the Blue and Steller's Jays there.
Date: 4/24/18 7:55 am From: <joe......> <joega140...> Subject: [cobirds] Hybrid Stellers' X Blue Jay in Woodland Park
Steller’s Jay/Blue Jay hybrid with other Steller’s, looked more like a
Steller’s but with white pattern markings of a Blue Jay on wings, head and
tail, on 4-19, 4-20 in Woodland Park yard area.
Date: 4/24/18 7:53 am From: <joe......> <joega140...> Subject: [cobirds] March 2018 Birds, Woodland Park Area and Beyond
March 2018 Birds, Woodland Park Area and Beyond
FOS = First of Season
The day before a snowstorm yard was hoppin’ on March 18, with 60+ birds in
yard area, mostly juncos and Cassin’s Finces, a Finchapalooza with Evening
Grosbeak, Red Crossbill, Pine Siskin, House Finch and also Pygmy and
White-breasted Nuthatch, Mountain Chickadee, Steller’s Jay, Black-billed
Magpie, Hairy Woodpecker.
American White Pelican- Barr Lake State Park on 3-31.
Double-crested Cormorant- 1 at Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15. Barr Lake
State Park on 3-31.
Gadwall- Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15. Barr Lake State Park on 3-31.
Ring-necked Duck- Barr Lake State Park on 3-31. Pair on pond near Bear
Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Bufflehead- Barr Lake State Park on 3-31.
Northern Shoveler- Barr Lake State Park on 3-31.
Hooded Merganser- Pair at Barr Lake State Park on 3-31.
Turkey Vulture- 1 near Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Bald Eagle- 1 adult along South Platte River near Lake George on 3-8, 1
adult at Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15. 1 adult at Barr Lake State Park on
3-31.
Cooper’s Hawk- 1 near Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Osprey- Pair at nest platform, collecting sticks, Barr Lake State Park on
3-3
Northern Goshawk- Calling near Lake George around 8:30 AM on 3-28. My
neighbors reported sightings from last August of adult Goshawk in their
yard, it was chasing a squirrel and slammed into their wood pile, sat there
stunned for a while and they got some good pics, the chicken-hawk also ate
one of their chickens.
Golden Eagle- soaring over Longs Ranch Trail near Manitou Springs on 3-24
Chukar- Report in yard area Woodland Park in late March, likely escapee.
Killdeer- Barr Lake State Park on 3-31
Mourning Dove- singing Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15. Singing, Barr Lake
and near Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Eurasian Collared-Dove- along cty. rd. to park entrance, Brush Hollow
Reservoir on 3-15, along Hwy. 24 Woodland Park area on 3-17, along Hwy. 24
Cascade and Crystola Area on 3-24. 3 near Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on
3-31.
Barn Owl- Roosting in nest box at Barr Lake State Park at picnic table
platform along Lake Trail just N of Nature Center area, on 3-31.
Northern Pygmy-Owl- 1 calling on 3-17 along Platte River near Lake George
around 3:00 PM, 1 calling on 3-25 along Hotel Gulch north of Woodland Park
around 8:30 AM
Great Horned Owl- 1 on 3-9 and 3-11, mobbed by Steller’s Jays and and a few
magpies and crows, 1 at Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15, 1 being mobbed by
magpies, Manitou Springs on 3-24. On nest at Barr Lake State Park along
Lake Trail N of Nature Center area, on 3-31.
Downy Woodpecker- 1 on 3-6, 3-12
Williamson’s Sapsucker- FOS near Lake George on 3-28, calling, drumming.
Northern Three-toed Woodpecker- 1 on Lovell Gulch Loop Trail on 3-11
Northern Flicker- Territorial calling and drumming on 3-21
Say’s Phoebe- singing near Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Tree Swallow- 3-28 FOS
Northern Shrike- 1 near Lake George on 3-22
Woodhouse’s Scrub Jay- Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Black-billed Magpie- 8 on 3-1
Black-capped Chickadee- Singing on on 3-3 on Palmer Loop Trail in West
Colorado Springs, 1 on 3-4 and 3-6, 3-9, 3-22
Townsend’s Solitaire- singing, Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15. Enthusiastic
singing near Lake George on 3-28
Mountain Bluebird- Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15, FOS on 3-18 Lake George,
CO, Woodland Park on 3-19, Manitou Lake on 3-25
American Robin- 1M FOS 3-10, 1 on Mothers Rest Ladder trail, Cascade on
3-10, MF on 3-13, along Platte River near Lake George on 3-17, flock of12
on 3-25 along Hotel Gulch N of Woodland Park. Singing near Lake George on
3-28.
Canyon Wren- 1 singing on Mothers Rest Ladder trail, Cascade on 3-10
American Dipper- 1 or 2 singing along South Platte River near Lake George
on 3-8, 3-17, 3-22
White-breasted Nuthatch- Territorial calling on 3-3 on Palmer Loop Trail in
West Colorado Springs
Brown Creeper- 1 on 3-2, 3-4, 3-6, 3-13, 3-22, 3-24, 3-25, 3-27, singing on
3-11, 2 on on Lovell Gulch Loop Trail on 3-11, on Barr Trail, Manitou
Springs on 3-24
Bushtit- on Barr Trail, Manitou Springs on 3-24
Western Meadowlark- Barr Lake State Park on 3-31.
Spotted Towhee- Singing on Barr Trail, Manitou Springs on 3-24
Canyon Towhee- singing, Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15
White-crowned Sparrow- singing, Brush Hollow Reservoir on 3-15
Song Sparrow- Singing on 3-22 along South Platte River near Lake George,
singing near Bear Creek Trail in Morrison on 3-31.
Dark-eyed Junco- All 5 subspecies around most of month, high count 30+ in
yard area on 3-25. White-winged last seen 3-25, Pink-sided high count 12 on
3-14, Oregon high count 8 on 3-7, Gray-headed high count 12 on 3-15. Also
Palmer Loop Trail in West Colorado Springs on 3-3, Brush Hollow Reservoir
on 3-15, Pink-sided at Barr Lake on 3-31.
Evening Grosbeak- 6 on 3-13, 1 on 3-14, a few on 3-16, 1 on 3-17, 3 on
3-18, a few on 3-19, a few on 3-21, 1 M on 3-25, a few on 3-26, 2 M on
3-27, 3-29
Pine Siskin- A few around all month
Cassin’s Finch- Daily flocks averaging about 8 or 10, high count 20 on 3-22.
Red Crossbill- 3(2M,1F) on 3-17 (always around, first time at feeders), 1M
on 3-18, 3-19, MF on 3-23, 1F on 3-24
American Goldfinch- Parent’s house in Englewood, breeding plumage in late
March.
Common Redpoll- A friend in Mitchell, SD reports an irruption year for
Common Redpoll with good numbers all winter that included one Hoary
Redpoll. Cold temps and snow have continued and she still has a few hanging
around into early April.
Abert’s Squirrel- Black Phase, along South Platte River near Lake George on
3-28
Date: 4/24/18 3:09 am From: Joyce Takamine <jabirujt...> Subject: [cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert, 24 April 2018
Compiler: Joyce Takamine
Date: April 24, 2018
e-mail: RBA AT cobirds.org
This is the Rare Bird Alert for Tuesday, April 24 sponsored by Denver Field
Ornithologists and the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies.
Highlight species include: (* indicates new information on this species)
NOTE: The RBA is now using the new AOU checklist and the order of families
has changed.
Snow Goose (Arapahoe)
Greater White-fronted Goose (Larimer, Prowers, Rio Grande)
Tundra Swan (Prowers)
Greater Scaup (Jefferson, Montrose)
Red-breasted Mergaser (Kiowa, *Montezuma)
CALIFORNIA QUAIL (*Moffat)
Sharp-tailed Grouse (Weld)
White-winged Dove (El Paso)
Greater Roadrunner (Kiowa)
White-throated Swift (Pueblo)
Virginia Rail (Chaffee, Garfield)
Sandhill Crane (Chaffee, Delta)
Black-necked Stilt (Chaffee, Weld)
Semipalmated Plover (Boulder, La Plata)
Piping Plover (Bent)
Mountain Plover (El Paso)
Whimbrel (Kiowa)
Long-billed Curlew (Archuleta, El Paso, Kiowa, Weld)
Marbled Godwit (Archuleta, Boulder, Delta, El Paso, Kiowa)
Sanderling (Kiowa)
Baird’s Sandpiper (El Paso, Prowers, Weld)
Least Sandpiper (El Paso, Kit Carson, Prowers)
Pectoral Sandpiper (Larimer)
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Boulder, El Paso, Kit Carson)
Western Sandpiper (Archuleta, Boulder, Mesa, Weld)
Long-billed Dowitcher (El Paso)
Spotted Sandpiper (El Paso, Larimer)
Solitary Sandpiper (Adams, Boulder, *Mesa, Weld)
Willet (Denver,Larimer, *Montezuma)
Wilson’s Phalarope (Boulder, El Paso, Garfield, Kit Carson, La Plata,
Pueblo, Weld)
Red-necked Phalarope (*Weld)
Iceland Gull (Kiowa)
Caspian Tern (Arapahoe, Jefferson, *Weld)
Forster’s Tern (*Montezuma)
Red-throated Loon (Kiowa)
Neotropic Cormorant (Kiowa)
American White Pelican (Douglas)
Great Egret (Boulder, Denver, El Paso)
Snowy Egret (Arapahoe, Boulder, Denver, El Paso, *Rio Blanco)
Little Blue Heron (Kiowa)
Cattle Egret (Arapahoe, *Rio Blanco)
White-faced Ibis (El Paso, Weld)
Turkey Vulture (Douglas)
Northern Goshawk (Larimer)
Broad-winged Hawk (El Paso, Washington)
Rough-legged Hawk (*Washington, Weld, *Yuma)
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Denver)
Red-naped Sapsucker (Otero)
Ladder-backed Woodpecker (*El Paso)
Hairy Woodpecker (*Weld)
Northern Flicker (Denver)
Gray Flycatcher (Boulder, Jefferson, Kit Carson)
Dusky Flycatcher (Montrose)
Eastern Phoebe (*Boulder, Chaffee, El Paso, Jefferson)
Cassin’s Kingbird (*Denver)
Western Kingbird (Jefferson)
Gray Jay (Jefferson)
Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay (*Adams)
Chihuahuan Raven (Kiowa)
Common Raven (Weld)
Violet-green Swallow (Jefferson, Weld)
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Moffat)
Bank Swallow (*Gunnison)
Cliff Swallow (Moffat)
Mountain Chickadee (Larimer, Weld)
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Adams, Arapahoe, El Paso, Kit Carson, Larimer,
Pueblo)
Eastern Bluebird (El Paso)
Swainson’s Thrush (Adams)
Hermit Thrush (Denver)
Gray Catbird (Boulder)
Curve-billed Thrasher (El Paso)
Brown Thrasher (Pueblo)
Sage Thrasher (Boulder)
Northern Mockingbird (Broomfield, El Paso, Pueblo)
American Pipit (Gunnison, Kiowa)
Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (*Jackson)
Brown-capped Rosy-Finch (*Jackson)
Red Crossbill (*Boulder)
Chestnut-collared Longspur (Weld)
McCown’s Longspur (Weld)
Green-tailed Towhee (Teller)
Chipping Sparrow (Denver, El Paso, Logan, Montezuma)
Brewer’s Sparrow (Jefferson, Weld)
Lark Sparrow (El Paso)
Black-throated Sparrow (*Otero)
Sagebrush Sparrow (Boulder)
Lark Bunting (Weld)
Fox Sparrow (Boulder)
Harris’s Sparrow (Arapahoe, *Denver, El Paso)
Yellow-breasted Chat (Larimer)
Yellow-headed Blackbird (Garfield)
Brown-headed Cowbird (El Paso, Kit Carson, Yuma)
Orange-crowned Warbler (Arapahoe, El Paso, Jefferson, Kit Carson)
LUCY’S WARBLER (*El Paso)
Nashville Warbler (*El Paso)
Common Yellowthroat (Pueblo)
Yellow Warbler (Adams, Boulder, Denver)
Wilson’s Warbler (El Paso, Pueblo)
Western Tanager (Denver, Jefferson)
ADAMS COUNTY:
---On April 21 at Barr Lake SP, Joe Roller reported Swainson’s Thrush;
Walter Wehtje reported Solitary Sandpiper and 2 Yellow Warblers.
---On April 21 at East Lakje Shores Park, Adam Vesley reported Blue-gray
Gnatcatcher.
---On April 23 at Sand Creek Park, Geroge Ho reported Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay.
ALAMOSA COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Blanca Wetlands NWR, Alex Mullins and Ricky Martinez
reported 2 Snowy Plovers.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Exposition Park, G Stacks reported Cattle Egret.
---On April 21 at Sterne Park in Littleton, Roasanne J reported Snowy Egret.
---On April 21 at Holly Park, Jared Del Rosso reported Blue-gray
Gnatcatcher and 2 Orange-crowned Warblers.
---On April 21 at Big Dry Creek Trail between Dry Creek Blvd and Arapahoe
Blvd, Mary O’Connor reported 2 Blue-gray Gnatcatchers.
---On April 21 at Centennial Park, Art Hudak and Tom Behnfield, reported
Caspian Tern.
---On April 21 at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Jared Del Rosso reported
Harris’s Sparrow.
ARCULETA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Navajo SP and Reservoir, Charles Matinez and Jean
Zirnheld reported Long-billed Curlew, 5 Marbled Godwits, 4 Western
Sandpipers
BENT COUNTY:
---On April 21 at John Martin Reservoir, Duane Nelson reported 2 Piping
Plovers. One is best ween at point between east and west boat ramps on N
side near dam; the other is on Three-pole Island –visible from State Park
Hqrts.
BOULDER COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Boulder Creek and 75th St, Alexander Brown reported
Eastern Phoebe and Solitary Sandpiper; Jonathan Montgomery reported Gray
Catbird. On April 21 at Boulder Creek and 75th St, Luke Pheneger, Maikel
and Susan Wise, and Steve Frye reported Eastern Phoebe. On April 22 at
Boulder Creek and 75th St, Matt Hofeditz, Mary O’Connor, Jonathan
Montgomery, Dan Zmolek, and Leslie S reported Eastern Phoebe; Katie Lehman
reported Fox Sparrow; Ernest Crvich reported 2 Eastern Phoebe. On April 23
at Boulder Creek and 5th St, Eric DeFonso and Candice Johnson reported
Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 20 at Golden Ponds Park and NA, David Dowell reported Eastern
Phoebe.
---On April 20 at Coors Event Center on CU campus, Nathan Pieplow reported
Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 20 at Walden/Sawhill Ponds, Stephen Chang reported 4 Western
Sandpipers and Solitary Sandpiper. On April 21 at Walden Sawhill Ponds,
Luke Pheneger, Peter Gent, Ted Floyd and others reported Semipalmated
Plover, Marbled Godwit, 3 Semipalmated Sandpipers, Great Egret, Snowy
Egret, and Yellow Warbler.
---On April 21 at Lagerman Reservoir, Mark Minner-Lee reported Wilson’s
Phalaropes and Sage Thrasher. On April 22 at Lagerman Reservoir, Luke
Pheneger reported Sage Thrasher.
---On April 21 at Boulder Reservoir Complex Mark Minner-Lee reported 12
Marbled Godwits.
---On April 22 at Bear Creek Path, Ted Floyd reported Gray Flycatcher
---On April 23 in Louisville on South Boulder Road, Paula Hansley reported
Red Crossbill (type 4).
CHAFFEE COUNTŸ:
---On April 21 on US 285 S of Nathop, Laura Aardwolfe reported Sandhill
Crane.
---On April 22 at Mount Shavano Fish Hatchery, Christian Hagenlocher
reported Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 22 at Sands Lae SWA, Christian Hagenlocher reported 2 Eastern
Phoebe.
---On April 22 at Buena Vista Ice Pond (view from road), Christian
Hagnelocher reported Black-necked Stilt.
DELTA COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Hart’s Basin, Connie Kogler reported Marbled Godwits and
13 Sandhill Cranes.
DENVER COUNTY:
---On April 20 at First Creek at DEN OS, John Breitsch reported Harris’s
Sparrow, Hermit Thrush, and Chipping Sparrow. On April 21 at First Creek
at DEN OS, John Breitsch reported Harris’s Sparrow. On April 22 at First
Creek at DEN OS, Anna Troth, Gregg Goodrich, and Cole Sage reported
Harris’s Sparrow. On April 23 at First Creek at DEN OS, Ginny Bergstrom
and Chris Brobin reported Harris’s Sparrow.
---On April 21 at Marston Reservoir Complex, Doug Kibbe, Elaine Wagner
MacKenzie Goldthwait, and Art Hudak reported Willet.
---On April 21 at Fort Logan Cemetery, Doug Kibbe reported Northern
(Yellow-shafter) Flicker.
---On April 21 at Rocky Mountain Lake Park, Matt Gray reported Great Egret,
Snowy Egret, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and Western Tanager.
---On April 21 at Westerly Creek Park, Jason Bidgood reported Yellow
Warbler and 4 Snowy Egrets.
---On April 23 at Bluff Lake Nature Center, John Cobb reported Cassin’s
Kingbird.
EL PASO COUNTY:
---On April 14 at Sinton Ponds OS, David Tonnessen and Jim Merritt
reported LUCY’S WARBLER. On April 20 at Sinton Ponds OS, Diana Beatty and
Cheri Phillips reported LUCY’S WARBLER; Beatty also reported Orange-crowned
Warbler and 3 Chipping Sparrows. On April 21 at Sinton Pond OS, David
Tonnessen and others reported f Nashville Warbler in morning and in
afternoon they refound LUCY’S WARBLER and a m Nashville Warbler. On April
22 at Sinton Pond OS, Brandon Percival and several other birders reported
LUCY’S WARBLER; Jim Merritt reported White-winged Dove, Renee Casias
reported Nashville Warbler. On April 23 at Sinton Pond OS, Terence Berger
reported LUCY’S WARBLER; Chris Brobin reported Nashville Warbler.
---On April 22 at Fountain Creek RP, Brandon Percival and Jim Merritt
reported Broad-winged Hawk near Rice’s Pond.
---On April 21 at Hanover Fire Station, Joy Lake reported Curve-billed
Thrasher.
---On April 20 at Rampart Park in Colorado Springs, John Drummond reported
Great Egret and 5 White-faced Ibis.
---On April 20 at Fountain Creek RP, Tanja Britton and Kevin Ash reported
Spotted Sandpiper; Britton also reported 2 Snowy Egret.
---On April 21 at Chico Basin Ranch, Joy and Leonard Lake reported
Ladder-backed Woodpecker. On April 22 at Chico Basin Ranch, wooded areas,
Colin Woolley reported pair of Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Northern
Mockingbird, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, 2 Wilson’s Warblers, 6 Brown-headed
Cowbirds. On April 23 at Chico Basin Ranch Bell Grove, Ken Burton reported
2 Ladder-backed Woodpeckers.
---On April 22 at Ramah Reservoir SWA, John Drummond and David Tonnessen
reported Marbled Godwit, 2 Long-billed Dowitchers, 4 Least Sandpipers,
Semipalmated Sandpiper, 5 Baird’s Sandpipers, 3 Wilson’s Phalarope, and m
Eastern Bluebird.
---On April 22 on Santa Fe Trail, Christine Hubbell reported Eastern Phoebe.
GARFIELD COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Fravert Reservoir, Doug Gochfeld and Field Guides Grouse
Tour reported 3 Virginia Rail, 2 Wilson’s Phalarope, and 4 Yellow-headed
Blackbirds. On April 21 at Fravert Reservoir, Reid Greiner reported 2
Wilson’s Phalaropes.
GUNNISON COUNTY:
---On April 21 at Blue Mesa Reservoir, Holly Annala reported American Pipit.
---On April 23 at Gunnison Whitewater Park, Christopher Burney reported
Bank Swallow.
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
---On April 21 at wheat Ridge Greenbelt, Doug Faulkner, Lorraine Lanning,
and Gabriel Wiltse reported Western Kingbird and Western Tanager.
---On April 20 at Bear Creek Lake Park, Myron Gerhard reported
Orange-crowned Warbler.
---On April 20 at Mt Evans Wilderness, Black Mountain Drive, Jeff Lemons
and Nicole Kieltzow reported Gray Jay.
---On April 20 at Harriman Lake Park, Doug Kibbe and Elaine Wagner reported
4 Greater Scaup.
---On April 20 at Standley Lake Park – North Shore, David Chernack reported
Brewer’s Sparrow.
---On April 21 at East Reservoir, Matt Clark reported Caspian Tern.
---On April 22 at Belmar Park, Jesse Casias and Renee Casias reported Gray
Flycatcher at NW end of second pond on horse trail.
KIOWA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Neenoshe Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow and David Ely reported
Red-throated Loon, 4 Red-breasted Mergansers, 2 Little Blue Heron, and
Greated Roadrunner.
---On April 22 at Upper Queens/Neeskah Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow and David
Ely reported 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, Neotropic Cormorant, 5 Whimbrel,
Long-billed Curlew, 3 Marbled Godwit, 2 Sanderling, 2 Chihuahuan Raven.
LA PLATA COUNTY:
---On April 21 at Pastrius Reservoir, Jim Beatty and David Dowell reported
Semipalmated Plover and 3 Wilson’s Phalaropes.
JACKSON COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Moose Visitor Center, Jacob Cuomo reported 2 Gray-crowned
Rosy-Finch and 42 Brown-capped Rosy-Finch.
LARIMER COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Grandview Cemetery, Dave Leatherman reported 5 Mountain
Chickadees.
---On April 21 at Dixon Reservoir, Brad Biggerstaff reported 2 Blue-gray
Gnatcatchers.
---On April 21 at Timnath Reservoir, Nick Komar reported Greater
White-fronted Geese and Spotted Sandpiper.
---On April 22 at Arapahoe Bend NA Rigden Reservoir (Strauss Cabin Lake),
Lori Zabel land Jay Breidt reported Pectoral Sandpiper and 2 Willet.
---On April 22 at Horsetooth Mountain OS, Arvid Panjabi reported
Yellow-breasted Chat.
MESA COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Ela Wildlife Sanctuary, Nic Korte reported Solitary
Sandpiper. On April 21 at Ela wildlife Sancutary, Katey Buster, Mike
Henwood, and Bob Clarke reported Solitary Sandpiper. On April 22 at Ela
Wildlife Sanctuary, Mike Henwood reported 2 Solitary sandpipers. On April
23 at Ela Wildlife Sanctuary, Bob Clarke reported 3 Solitary Sandpipers.
MOFFAT COUNTY:
---On April 9 Dinosaur National Monument Canyon Area Visitor Center, Kenny
Frisch photographed a CALIFORNIA QUAIL a first time in Colorado. On April
20 at Dinosaur National Monument Canyon Area Visitor Center, Tom Litteral
reported CALIFORNIA QUAIL. On April 23 at Dinosaur National Monument
Canyon Area Visitor Center, Gregg Goodrich and John Drummond reported
CALIFORNIA QUAIL heard.
MONTEZUMA COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Totten Reservoir, Glenn Dunmire and Erick Hendrickson
reported Willet. On April 23 at Totten Reservoir, Erick Hendrickson
reported f Red-breasted Merganser and Forster’s Tern.
---On April 22 at Summit Lake, Glenn Dunmire and Erick Hendrickson reported
Willet.
OTERO COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Oxbow SWA, Allan Harris reported Red-naped Sapsucker.
---On April 23 at COmmanch NG, Carl Bendorf reported 2 Black-throated
Sparrows on CR E.
PROWERS COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Northgate, Jane Stulp reported 3 Greater White-fronted
Geese, Tundra Swan, Baird’s Sandpiper, and 18 Least Sandpipers. On April
22 at Northgate (Arkansas River and US 50), Steve Mlodinow reported 3
Greater White-fronted Geese and Tundra Swan.
PUEBLO COUNTY:
---On April 21 at Pueblo Reservoir Cottonwood and Snakeskin Picnic Areas,
Brandon Percival reported Common Yellowthroat.
---On April 21 at Chico Basin Ranch, John Drummond, Jan Albright, and Bill
Maynard reported Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Wilson’s Warbler. On April 22
at Chico Basin Ranch, Brandon Percival reported Wilson’s Warbler, 12
Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, 12 Wilson’s Phalarope, and Northern Mockingbird.
---On April 22 at Valco Ponds, Time Leppek reported Brown Thrasher.
RIO BLANCO COUNTY:
---On April 23 at Kenney Reservoir, Gregg Goodrich, John Drummond, and Lisa
Edwards reported Cattle Egret and Snowy Egret.
TELLER COUNTY:
---On April 20 at Manitou Lake, Kara Corn reported Green-tailed Towhee.
WASHINGTON COUNTY:
---On April 22 at Hwy 64 between CR 14 and CR 15, Dan Brooke et at reported
Rough-legged Hawk.
---On April 22 at Prewitt Reservoir, Dan Brooke et al reported
Broad-winged Hawk.
---On April 22 at Akron Golf Course, Dan Brooke et al reported Broad-winged
Hawk.
---On April 23 on Hwy 34 between CR S and CR U, Sue Riffe reported
Rough-legged Hawk.
WELD COUNTY:
---On April 21 at Union Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow reported 3 Brewer’s
Sparrows. On April 23 at Union Reservoir, Steve Mlodinow reported 2
Caspian Terns.
---On April 20 on CR 114 between CR 45 and CR 47, Joe Mammoser reported 8+
Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 20 on CR 49 .5 mile S of CR 114, Joe Mammoser reported 3+
Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 20 in Pawnee NG, Ryan Graves reported Lark Bunting.
---On April 21 at Firestone Gravel Pits (view from road), Bill Kaempfer and
Steve Mlodinow reported 2 Caspian Terns. On April 22 at Firestone Gravel
Pits (view from road), Gene Rutherford, Doug Kibbe et al, and Ginny
Bergstrom reported 5 Caspian Terns.
---On April 21 at CR 100 W of CR 89, Doug Kibbe, Mackenzie Goldthwait, and
Elaine Wagner reported Rough-legged Hawk.
---On April 22 on Hwy 392 SW of intersection of CR 69 and CR 74, Doug Kibbe
et al reported Rough-legged Hawk.
---On April 22 on CR 134 E of CR 111, Doug Kibbe et al reported 18
Sharp-tailed Grouse and 2 Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 22 on CR 115, Doug Kibbe et al reported Sharp-tailed Grouse.
---On April 22 at Eaton Cemetery, Gene Rutherford reported 3 Mountain
Chickadee.
---On April 22 on CR 100 east of CR 45, Bill Fink reported
Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 22 3 miles west on Murphy’s Pasture Rd, Bill Fink reported
McCown’s Longspur.
---On April 22 at Loloff Reservoir, Bill Fink reported 4 Black-necked
Stilts and Wilson’s Phalarope.
---On April 22 at Beebe Draw, Bill Fink reported Western Sandpiper.
---On April 22 3 miles S of Birggsdale, Bill Fink reported Rough-legged
Hawk.
---On April 22 at Pawnee NG, Jacob Cuomo reported Long-billed Curlew, 9
Baird’s Sandpipers, Solitary Sandpiper, Common Raven, and m McCown’s
Longspur.
---On April 23 at Norma’s Grove, Gene Rutherford reported Hairy Woodpecker
(Rocky Mt).
---On April 23 on CR 40 between CR 45 and CR 47, Gene Rutherford reported
basic plumaged Red-necked Phalarope.
YUMA COUNTY:
---On April 23 on W 8th Ave in Yuma, Sue Riffe reported Rough-legged Hawk.
DFO Field Trips:
For details please visit the DFO website dfobirds.org
Tuesday, April 24
8:00 AM -
SW Metro Area led by David Suddjian (dsuddjian AT gmail.com;831-713-8659)
Friday, April 27 – Saturday April 28
1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Cortez led by Gregg Goodrich (GreggGoodrich AT gmail.com; 303-655-9135)
Saturday, April 28
6:00-AM – 6:00 PM
Poudre River and Poudre Canyon led by Chris Goulart (cgoular001 AT
comast.net; 586-764-2126) This trip is FULL.
Saturday, April 28
7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Walden Pond Wildlife Habitat/Sawhill led by Chuck Hundertmark
(chundertmark8 AT gmail.com; 303-604-0531)
Sunday, April 29
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Chico Basin Ranch led by Mark Amershek (mamershek AT msn.com;
303-329-8646) This trip is FULL
Sunday April 29
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Rocky Mountain Arsenal NWR led by Candice Johnson (candice.johnson AT
childrenscolorado.org; 303-329-8131)
Sunday, April 29
8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Roxborough State Park led by Alison Kondler (birdtrills AT gmail.com;
303-904-9140) This trip is FULL.
Date: 4/23/18 7:21 pm From: 'Egret' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Denver CO, Harris Sparrow- First Creek at Denver open space
It was on the trail next to the stream near the intersection of a closed road and concrete bike path. First time I was there. Another birder told me where it was. I got a decent photo of it.
Date: 4/23/18 3:26 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Arrivals - Centennial (Arapahoe)
This morning, in my Centennial yard: two House Wrens, two Chipping Sparrows -- first of the year on both for me. I thought I'd spotted a House Wren skulking last week, but saw and heard no trace of it again until today.
Three White-crowned Sparrows and one Lincoln's continuing. At least one scrub jay continues in my neighborhood as well.
At DU (Denver), my first Barn Swallow of the year.
Date: 4/23/18 1:57 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] DFO Apr 24 Park Co trip - CHANGE due to weather, open spots
DFO's Apr 24 trip to Park County has been cancelled due to possible weather. But the trip remains "ON" *with a new focus in the SW metro area.* We might have a fun migrant or two. *NEW TIME a leisurely 8:00 am. **NEW MEETING LOCATION: Hildebrand Ranch Park *along West Deer Creek Canyon Road about a mile or more west of Wadsworth.
Check here to register. There are now 2 open spots.
Date: 4/23/18 12:58 pm From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Weld County Birding and Pawnee District Ranger Visit
Hi all
I just wanted to share this "dream project" I am working on in the background. I've been taking environmental, conservation and now non-profit administration courses via Oregon State and Colorado State for reasons of being able to work on "green" side of Forest Service and/or my retirement project of starting a "Friends of Pawnee National Grasslands" non-profit organization.
In the background already is (1) enrolled in CSU's Non-profit Administration graduate-level certificate; (2) access to National Wildlife Refuge's Friends system and their guides and experience of how to build a Friends organization (30 years of knowledge); (3) a birder friend from Boulder Audubon drafting letter to local Audubon's (and others) Conservation Chairs; (4) I'm investigating legal requirements to register the Friends org for Pawnee and (5) investigating Forest Service contracts and agreements regulations when it comes to being able to direct non-profit monies (fundraising) to local District.
That being said a Friends group is a partnership relationship with the Federal entity (not an adversarial relationship) to help with issues, concerns, projects, etc. The hope as well is partnering with all the wonderful conservation organizations in Colorado and beyond to make this that much more successful. I see the next initial step as: Setting up meeting with a core team (2 to 5 people) somewhere in the middle of Fort Collins and Denver to walk through this effort in more detail to seek out if this is a viable effort or not and to begin to really go after this project. There are two passionate people already (myself and person mentioned above). I also mentioned this "dream" of mine at Denver Audubon CBC to Polly (I believe) who was very interested in something like this--so hope you are reading this ... :-) .
I would think core group would do the following: discuss viability, meet as a team with District Ranger (he seemed open to the concept), start to think about a board, initiate the legal structure of the org, define mission and vision of this Friends group, and starting building the Friends group.
This is exciting for me ... if you could not tell by my writings. Feel free to reach out to via email (by Reply Privately to Author option here)
On Monday, April 23, 2018 at 10:13:15 AM UTC-6, The "Nunn Guy" wrote: > > Hi all > > Birded all around Weld yesterday ... saw 79 species with the following new > spring birds: > > - Lark Bunting [Weld CR 96] > - Ruddy Duck [Loloff Reservoir] > - Swainson's Hawk [Beebe Draw] > - Semipalmated Sandpiper [Weld CR 59] --Both Loloff, Weld CR 59 > probably had total of 20+ peeps collectively > - Least Sandpiper [Weld CR 59] > - Loloff had peeps as well heatwaves > - Wilson's Phalarope [Loloff Reservoir and Weld CR 59] > - Burrowing Owl-2 [Weld CR 59 south of marsh on west to south of > flooded field corner alongside road] > - Barn Swallow > - Savannah Sparrow-2 [Weld CR 59] > - Vesper Sparrows > - Chipping Sparrow - few > - Brown-headed Cowbird > > Here's the gist on my Pawnee District Ranger visit: > > - First, he was nice guy to talk with and open to hearing concerns and > solutions but he is based in reality in terms of his annual program of > work, limited budget and lack of human resources to perform the work > - Office currently has only ~50% of staff (looks like 10 positions in > total)--two Archeologists, a temporary biologist, and a Recreation > Specialist (retires next month). Reality here is USDA is "guinea pig" for > Administrative streamlining efforts. Hiring to fill needed vacancies has > greatly reduced in terms of process and approvals > - Budget is extremely tight and diminishes each fiscal > year--stabilization not expected in next few Fiscal years > - Multiple use of the resource is a balance--I heard "squeaky wheel" > usually gets attention > - Recreational shooting is exploding (no pun intended) in growth--they > hear from rec shooters way-y-y-y more than birders > - Constituency (Rec shooting) pressure from State, County and > Recreational Shooting groups for access to these public lands > - Talked of removing Pawnee Bird Tour signs due to $$$ cost of > maintaining (replacing) due to vandalism and theft of displays > - Talked of getting with birders on changing and designing a 21st > century birding tour, identifying birding locales around the Pawnee and > using RF, GPS, mobile tech as a "virtual birding tour"--already being > studied. In both east and west sections (north to south, too). > - Most shooting occurs in the SE section (lower half) of the PNG west > section (ie, Weld CR 96)--he mentions > - District Ranger came from an oil and gas background in Oklahoma > - The recent oil and gas development decision (2012ish) prevents > drilling surface of PNG for new permits after 2014 > - A drill will be drilled on south side of Murphy's Pasture > soon--legacy permit (older than 2014). There are two more legacy permits > planned on PNG I heard mentioned > - In the PNG vicinity--third of all rights in private hands (surface > and mineral holder same), third in mixed hands (surface owner different > than mineral holder), third Federal govt hands > - Grassland habitat and grassland birds are of great conservation > concern not sure I heard that expressed during our conversation > > Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn > > http://coloradobirder.club/ > > >
Date: 4/23/18 12:23 pm From: John W. Cobb <jandbcobb...> Subject: [cobirds] Cassin's Kingbird Denver
Bayard and I had a Cassin's Kingbird hawking insects on the south shore of Bluff Lake. The bird was silent, but overhead showed a white tail tip, absent of any white or pale tail edgings and a bright white throat contrasting against a dark grey head, nape and breast. Other misguided priorities forced us to leave the bird with only one mediocre photo. Would be great to get another set of eyes (or camera) on it.
Date: 4/23/18 9:13 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Weld County Birding and Pawnee District Ranger Visit
Hi all
Birded all around Weld yesterday ... saw 79 species with the following new spring birds:
- Lark Bunting [Weld CR 96] - Ruddy Duck [Loloff Reservoir] - Swainson's Hawk [Beebe Draw] - Semipalmated Sandpiper [Weld CR 59] --Both Loloff, Weld CR 59 probably had total of 20+ peeps collectively - Least Sandpiper [Weld CR 59] - Loloff had peeps as well heatwaves - Wilson's Phalarope [Loloff Reservoir and Weld CR 59] - Burrowing Owl-2 [Weld CR 59 south of marsh on west to south of flooded field corner alongside road] - Barn Swallow - Savannah Sparrow-2 [Weld CR 59] - Vesper Sparrows - Chipping Sparrow - few - Brown-headed Cowbird
Here's the gist on my Pawnee District Ranger visit:
- First, he was nice guy to talk with and open to hearing concerns and solutions but he is based in reality in terms of his annual program of work, limited budget and lack of human resources to perform the work - Office currently has only ~50% of staff (looks like 10 positions in total)--two Archeologists, a temporary biologist, and a Recreation Specialist (retires next month). Reality here is USDA is "guinea pig" for Administrative streamlining efforts. Hiring to fill needed vacancies has greatly reduced in terms of process and approvals - Budget is extremely tight and diminishes each fiscal year--stabilization not expected in next few Fiscal years - Multiple use of the resource is a balance--I heard "squeaky wheel" usually gets attention - Recreational shooting is exploding (no pun intended) in growth--they hear from rec shooters way-y-y-y more than birders - Constituency (Rec shooting) pressure from State, County and Recreational Shooting groups for access to these public lands - Talked of removing Pawnee Bird Tour signs due to $$$ cost of maintaining (replacing) due to vandalism and theft of displays - Talked of getting with birders on changing and designing a 21st century birding tour, identifying birding locales around the Pawnee and using RF, GPS, mobile tech as a "virtual birding tour"--already being studied. In both east and west sections (north to south, too). - Most shooting occurs in the SE section (lower half) of the PNG west section (ie, Weld CR 96)--he mentions - District Ranger came from an oil and gas background in Oklahoma - The recent oil and gas development decision (2012ish) prevents drilling surface of PNG for new permits after 2014 - A drill will be drilled on south side of Murphy's Pasture soon--legacy permit (older than 2014). There are two more legacy permits planned on PNG I heard mentioned - In the PNG vicinity--third of all rights in private hands (surface and mineral holder same), third in mixed hands (surface owner different than mineral holder), third Federal govt hands - Grassland habitat and grassland birds are of great conservation concern not sure I heard that expressed during our conversation
Date: 4/23/18 8:29 am From: Glenn Dunmire <glenndunmire...> Subject: [cobirds] Montezuma County Clark's Grebe, Avocet, Willet
4/22 -Montezuma County Erik Hendrickson and I birded late afternoon/evening and found: Totten Lake-1 Willet Summit Lake-1 Willet Puett Reservoir-1 Clark's Grebe, 2 Avocet All three of these lakes are holding a wide variety of ducks still.
Dolores County-Grace's Warblers have arrived and are jubilantly singing on territory.
Date: 4/22/18 9:42 pm From: Karl Stecher Jr. <kstecher...> Subject: re: [cobirds] Great-tailed Grackle Cherry Creek Res
I saw the grackle also. Blue-winged and cinnamon teal are present. A bufflehead pair has been present in the Cottonwood Creek pond for almost two weeks...might they stay?
There were about a dozen yellow-headed blackbirds at Cottonwood Creek yesterday, but I didn't see any there today.
Karl Stecher Aurora
---------------------------------------- From: "Robert Righter" <rorighter...> Sent: Sunday, April 22, 2018 10:29 PM To: "cobirds" <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Great-tailed Grackle Cherry Creek Res Hi all
At the westside of wetlands, was 1 male Great-tailed Grackle, Notables also at the wetlands: Scores of Wilson's Snipe in the wet fields adjacent to the wetlands 2 Snowy Egrets 1 Black-crowned Night-Heron 6 male Yellow-headed Blackbirds
Date: 4/22/18 9:13 pm From: Tina Jones <tjcalliope...> Subject: [cobirds] Early arrivals in Yard
Hi all,
Had my first m. Broad-tailed Hummingbird in my yd today, the earliest I have had them in my yard so far. I know they show up regularly at other locations this time of year.
The House Wren makes an early record for it's arrival in my yard. April 9, the stealth House Wren arrived in my back yard. They are sneaky and hidden until they start singing. This bird's arrival really bothered my nesting Red-breasted Nuthatch, which had just started to lay eggs. The male Nuthatch called non stop while the Wren was near it's nesting box.I crossed my fingers the Wren would not go into the box, as they have done before.
Had two western grebes at Crom Lake along with four Avocets and assorted ducks. Chestnut-collared Longspurs still present on WCR 100 just east of WCR 45. One lonely McCown’s Longspur about 3 miles west on Murphy’s Pasture road with at least 50 Vesper sparrows but no Brewer’s sparrows I could pick out. Four Blacknecked Stilts at Loloff and one Wilson’s Phalarope. Not much at Latham-five Least Sanpipers and one Western sandpiper at Beebe draw in pond on south side of road. One Roughlegged hawk 3 Miles south of Briggsdale. Good birding. Bill Fink Longmont
Sent from my iPhone
Unitarian-Universalist Church 5001 Pennsylvania Ave. Boulder, CO
Colorado is home to six national wildlife refuges, with more than a dozen
others within a day’s drive. Dawn’s presentation will take us on a
photographic tour of these very special landscapes with their amazing
opportunities for nature photography. You will learn what wildlife to
expect in different refuges, the best seasons to visit each and tips for
wildlife photography and travel.
Dawn Wilson is a professional, award-winning nature photographer who
specializes in the Western States. She has been recognized as one of the
top-ten female nature photographers to watch. Ms. Wilson’s work has been
published in numerous regional and national publications and is a master
naturalist with the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas. She published her
first book in 2011, *Colorado: Flora, Fauna and Landscapes From the
Perspective of Women *and recently published an ebook titled, *Preparing
for the Next Shoot: Ten Tips to Get You to the Right Place at the Right
Time*.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 12:30:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Mike Fernandez
Observers:
Visitors: Not much to say for today. Mostly walkers just hiking through after a brief stop for the view. No questions except for where's the trail.
Weather: Early ground haze. Used WU PWS Solterra first hour but switched to Golden Heights because Solterra was not updating. Brilliant blue skies most of day with very little wind and no clouds.
Raptor Observations: Migrating Raptors: In the early hours the HOF was below ridge, both sides: Kestrel very close to the west side of ridge, Turkey Vultures and RT Hawks stayed close to the east side of ridge. Later RT Hawk (HOF 3) seemed to thread his way through a group of 5 hang gliders near Apex. Did not see unidentified raptor (trying to cover both sides of ridge and below solo) until it passed the platform directly overhead, HOF 2; It was not flapping, pure gliding over table mtn, but only saw him from behind. Behavior and profile shape and size buteo-like.
Non-Migrating Raptors: A local Sharpie flew through the junipers east side right next to platform. Last Sunday a Coopers perched in the dead pine next to (east of) the platform and now a Sharpie prowling the scrub (east) nearby. Several times I saw 2-3 raptors circling high over West Ridge and Two Pines but never saw them move north of there; they disappeared in the distance to the west. Several times local RT Hawks circled up over West Ridge and Sleeper House and dove down the hillside at Cabrini and Bare Slope.
Non-raptor Observations: As many hang gliders (12) as migrators (12).
Seen or heard: Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay (2), Black-billed Magpie (2), Common Raven (2), Black-capped/Mountain Chickadee (1), American Robin (2), Spotted Towhee (2), Western Meadowlark (2), House Finch (2).
Predictions: This is my last time on the hill this season. I'll be out of town rest of DinoHawk 2018. Hopefully someone will fill in Sunday April 29 and May 6. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Date: 4/22/18 3:04 pm From: 'John D' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Ramah Shorebirds
CO Birders :
Ramah SWA , El Paso County had a Marbled Godwit , 2 Long-billed Dowitchers , 4 Least Sandpiper , 1 Semi-palmated Sandpiper , possible Western ,2 Bairds and 3 Wilson's Phalarope in the remaining mud pools in the north east corner this afternoon. .
Also male Eastern Bluebird in the western woodlot .
John Drummond Colorado Springs
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Date: 4/22/18 2:41 pm From: Robert Righter <rorighter...> Subject: [cobirds] Great-tailed Grackle Cherry Creek Res
Hi all
At the westside of wetlands, was 1 male Great-tailed Grackle,
Notables also at the wetlands:
Scores of Wilson’s Snipe in the wet fields adjacent to the wetlands
2 Snowy Egrets
1 Black-crowned Night-Heron
6 male Yellow-headed Blackbirds
Jim Merritt and I saw a Broad-winged Hawk at Fountain Creek Regional Park, near the Rice's Ponds, also singing House Wren.
Spent quite a while at Sinton Pond not seeing Nashville Warbler, a few people did see it. The Lucy's Warbler showed well for people a couple times, while I was there.
Earlier this morning I went out to Hanover Road to see the fire damage and birded Chico Basin Ranch in cold foggy weather for a little while. Single Wilson's Warblers in both counties (El Paso and Pueblo), two Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, 12 Wilson's Phalarope, and a Northern Mockingbird were my highlights on Pueblo County side.
Yesterday in the ponds on either side of WCR 76, about .5 mile east of the Larimer/Weld County Line Road (Lower Latham Parkway): shoveler, mallard, scaup, blue-winged teal, cinnamon teal, bufflehead, American coot, Canada goose. Xcel has been in discussion with the Town of Windsor to build a 10-acre substation. A site under consideration, and already staked, lies directly north of the north pond. The site is NOT included in proposed sites on Xcel's website or on the map offered for public comment at an Xcel open house in August 2016. A site plan has not yet been presented to the Town, but will be soon. Principal Agent, Siting and Land Rights: Derek Hoschel. <derek.d.holscher...>
Marcia and Ron Maeda
East of Timnath, North of Windsor (but in the midst of Windsor after the Town proceeds with Annexation of Thornton Farm 24 to accommodate the substation)
Date: 4/22/18 9:39 am From: Joe Roller <jroller9...> Subject: [cobirds] RFI: Seeking update on California Quail near Dinosaur this weekend.
I dont see any eBird reports of that quail for yesterday, so the last sighting was by Tom Litteral on Friday AM. I'd be grateful if anyone let's me know if they tried and did or DID NOT see it. Either post to CObirds or contact me directly.
On Sat, Apr 21, 2018, 3:47 PM Scott <pygmyowl...> wrote:
> Hi Jill, > > Are you sure the thing that appeared to be a young owl was not a prey > item that the owl was in the process of eating, and it just simply > carried it off as it flew. > > Scott Rashid > Estes Park > > On 4/21/2018 12:13 PM, David Gulbenkian wrote: > > On Friday, April 20, 2018 at 8:00:00 PM UTC-6, <ji......> > wrote: > >> Hi all, > >> > >> I posted this yesterday about an owl, but as OWL-Douglas county. > >> However, it s really a questions about owl behavior. > >> > >> Jill Boice > >> > >> I saw something very unusual Wednesday night. My daughter, Run, > >> volunteers at a ranch near Castlerock. She does evening chores. At > >> dusk, we were near the chicken coop and saw a large Great Horned Owl > >> sitting in a spindly pine, very close by. Under the adult was what > >> looked like one or two owlets. I was wondering how that owlet got over > >> to the little tree that clearly did not have a nest in it. Suddenly the > >> adult (she, presumably) spooked and rose up, with her large owlet > >> grasped in her talons and carried it to a tree maybe 30 feet away. It > >> deposited the youngster in there somewhere. A short time later she flew > >> further away, to the top of another tree and began hooting. > >> > >> I have never seen a bird carry its young like that. Sort of like a mama > >> cat might do. I don't think I have even read about owls doing this. > >> Anybody else familiar with this? > >> > >> Sadly, of course, I did not have my camera on hand. > >> > >> Interested in others comments > >> > >> Jill > > I was at a Birds of Prey Foundation presentation on the 19th, where I > > learned that the violent winds not too long ago blew huge numbers of > > baby owls and hawks out of the nest or blew nests down. > > > > > --- > This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. > https://www.avast.com/antivirus > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<1a41342d-1965-befb-b504-6d50174d1162...> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
Date: 4/22/18 5:18 am From: Brian Cassell <brian.casselldvm...> Subject: [cobirds] Greater Prairie Chickens & Burrowing Owls, Yuma County
We went on the Greater Prairie Chicken Tour out of Wray, this morning. Light fine snow falling during most of the morning but we had great long looks at 18 males (no females) on the lek, about 9 Burrowing Owls, a couple of Horned Larks (and two Coyotes.). And the hospitality and genuine friendliness were great.
Brian Cassell
Denver
El Paso County doesn't have a lot of shorebird habitat. With Big Johnson dry, Ramah State Wildlife area has had the most diverse set of shorebirds the past two years. Today I ventured with Charles Kiskiras to check on Ramah Reservoir for spring migration.
The good news is that there is shorebird habitat at the far east end near the dam. Unfortunately, it is considerably restricted compared with last spring and fall. There is one puddle, 20x30 feet in area, and then a little strip of water by the dam extending 100-125 feet or so. That said, there were a number of ducks, Wilson's Phalarope (1), Marbled Godwit (4), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Killdeers. So, shorebirds are still stopping. The riparian area is also in good shape. Vesper Sparrows were everywhere, even in horizontal blowing snow.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 09:30:00 Total observation time: 0.5 hours
Official Counter: Mitchell Blystone
Observers: Roger Rouch
Visitors: Roger Rouch made an attempt later in the day from 10am to 10:30 with no luck as well.
Weather: Cold and snowy with no visibility. Low clouds and fog made for an extremely limited sight distance.
Raptor Observations: None.
Non-raptor Observations: A snow capped Dinosaur Ridge which made for a beautiful sight but treacherous hike. It was awfully quite with only a couple Robins seen.
Predictions: Warmer weather and sun should help a ton! Watch the trail, the snow and mud will make for some slick conditions. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Are you sure the thing that appeared to be a young owl was not a prey
item that the owl was in the process of eating, and it just simply
carried it off as it flew.
Scott Rashid
Estes Park
On 4/21/2018 12:13 PM, David Gulbenkian wrote:
> On Friday, April 20, 2018 at 8:00:00 PM UTC-6, <ji......> wrote:
>> Hi all,
>>
>> I posted this yesterday about an owl, but as OWL-Douglas county.
>> However, it s really a questions about owl behavior.
>>
>> Jill Boice
>>
>> I saw something very unusual Wednesday night. My daughter, Run,
>> volunteers at a ranch near Castlerock. She does evening chores. At
>> dusk, we were near the chicken coop and saw a large Great Horned Owl
>> sitting in a spindly pine, very close by. Under the adult was what
>> looked like one or two owlets. I was wondering how that owlet got over
>> to the little tree that clearly did not have a nest in it. Suddenly the
>> adult (she, presumably) spooked and rose up, with her large owlet
>> grasped in her talons and carried it to a tree maybe 30 feet away. It
>> deposited the youngster in there somewhere. A short time later she flew
>> further away, to the top of another tree and began hooting.
>>
>> I have never seen a bird carry its young like that. Sort of like a mama
>> cat might do. I don't think I have even read about owls doing this.
>> Anybody else familiar with this?
>>
>> Sadly, of course, I did not have my camera on hand.
>>
>> Interested in others comments
>>
>> Jill
> I was at a Birds of Prey Foundation presentation on the 19th, where I
> learned that the violent winds not too long ago blew huge numbers of
> baby owls and hawks out of the nest or blew nests down.
>
Date: 4/21/18 2:10 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Vespers everywhere + Arrivals & "Persisters" - Arapahoe
I spent most of the morning birding around Littleton, Centennial, and Greenwood Village. Following the single Vesper Sparrow I had in my yard yesterday were flocks of Vesper Sparrows at Chapel Hill Memorial Garden (Centennial), David Lorenz Regional Park (technically, Douglas County), and Holly Park (Centennial). I'm sure others are experiencing this as well.
Others around...
- At Willow Spring Open Space...a Lincoln's Sparrow, a pair of Blue-winged Teals in the beaver pond, and a collection of five Black-crowned Night Herons there as well. - At Holly Park...two Orange-crowned Warblers and a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. - A Lincoln's Sparrow in my yard, going on a month now. - The Harris's Sparrow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, which I haven't seen in about a month. (I presume it's the same one.) It's moved off of the hedgerow where it spent much of the winter. When I saw it today, it flushed into a juniper in the middle of the cemetery with a Vesper.
Date: 4/21/18 1:44 pm From: Linda Andes-Georges <andesgeorges...> Subject: [cobirds] Say's Phoebe pair reunited, central Bldr Cnty
> I haven't had any good stories to tell for ages -- of any kind--but especially, birdy.
>
> So I thought I'd share this one for those who are like me, starved for good news, or even... sentimental news:
>
> We've had Say's Phoebes nesting on our house ledges for about 11 years, although I assume that there has been a generational change at some point. Last year the male arrived on Mar. 23rd and pined about by himself, breaking my heart with his melancholy cry (I gesture scornfully at those who call notion anthropomorphic) for weeks, looking for a female.
>
> On April 24 she returned... unipodally: one-footed. There was much obvious rejoicing between the two, and subsequent chitter-muttering over the annual challenge of choosing a ledge.
>
> After some scuffling with the sassy House Finches & pestiferous House Sparrows, and fending off a Bluejay attack after they had eggs, the Phoebe pair fledged three young in July. It was amazing to watch the little para-abled female manage her brood throughout, perching on the driveway, where she had balance problems until I thought to put up a nice parakeet-style perch 15 feet from the nest. Then she used that until they all left in the fall.
>
> This year the male again returned Mar. 23. I started to worry, as I always do, about whether a (or even better, THE) female would appear. On 4/1 another phoebe scouted the yard, but it wasn't the right one. Then on 4/16, She arrived. For the first time, I could verify that this was the same bird as the previous year. No mistaking the lopsided perch posture on our deck bench! She is ready to start anew.
>
> My heart soars.
>
> Linda
>
>
> Linda Andes-Georges
> Boulder County (W of Lagerman, N of Haystack, E of Table Mtn)
> [Jean-Pierre says: W of Paris, S of Quebec, E of Tahiti]
> 8417 Stirrup Ln
> Longmont CO 80503
> Tel. 720 668 5214
>
Date: 4/21/18 1:30 pm From: Joe Roller <jroller9...> Subject: [cobirds] Swainson's Thrush at Barr Lake, Adams County
Bird Conservancy of the Rockies (nee RMBO) held its 30th Birthday Celebration at Barr Lake today. On the guided bird walks there were several first of the season species, but my favorite was a Swainson's Thrush, seen along path to the banding station. I checked eBird to see where else in the state they were showing up so far this year in April but saw NO reports, although some will likely occur today.
Bird was seen well nearby with several observers noting the prominent eyeing, buffy cheek patch and pattern of breast spots. Hermit Thrush, the usual early thrush, was ruled out by the above features and lack of reddish tones in the "non-dipping" tail.
Loads of swallows, a Yellow Warbler, many other migrants seen by others.
Date: 4/21/18 12:48 pm From: Duane Nelson <dnelson1...> Subject: [cobirds] Piping Plovers at John Martin Reservoir
Birders,
I am no longer working with Piping Plovers and Least Terns at John Martin or other Reservoirs in SE Colorado, and have taken on a new job. However, I still like to get out and see what birds are around occasionally.
I was able to observe at least two Piping Plovers today at John Martin Reservoir. Since there are no closures set up, and fishermen have unrestricted access anyways, it is hard to justify keeping birders away. The easiest location to see a Piping Plover is on the point between the east and west boat ramps on the north side of the reservoir near the dam. Another plover can be seen on Three-pole Island, the prominent island visible from State Park HQ, accessed by a campground loop on Point Overlook. Other shorebirds are likely on Three-pole Island, as well as terns (including Caspian) and gulls (Bonaparte's and Franklin's).
If the weather is bad, Lake Hasty can be good. The swim beach may have shorebirds and waterbirds, and hundreds of foraging swallows.
Date: 4/21/18 12:27 pm From: 'Rosanne J.' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Sterne Park, Littleton, Arapahoe County
The Snowy Egret's mate arrived today at Sterne Park.
On Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at 7:33:57 PM UTC-6, Rosanne J. wrote: > > Continuing Common Merganser pair and at least four babies. Snowy Egret > returns; first I've seen it this year. Occasional Double-crested Cormorant, > and Belted Kingfisher found at the pond also. >
On Friday, April 20, 2018 at 8:00:00 PM UTC-6, <ji......> wrote:
> Hi all,
>
> I posted this yesterday about an owl, but as OWL-Douglas county.
> However, it s really a questions about owl behavior.
>
> Jill Boice
>
> I saw something very unusual Wednesday night. My daughter, Run,
> volunteers at a ranch near Castlerock. She does evening chores. At
> dusk, we were near the chicken coop and saw a large Great Horned Owl
> sitting in a spindly pine, very close by. Under the adult was what
> looked like one or two owlets. I was wondering how that owlet got over
> to the little tree that clearly did not have a nest in it. Suddenly the
> adult (she, presumably) spooked and rose up, with her large owlet
> grasped in her talons and carried it to a tree maybe 30 feet away. It
> deposited the youngster in there somewhere. A short time later she flew
> further away, to the top of another tree and began hooting.
>
> I have never seen a bird carry its young like that. Sort of like a mama
> cat might do. I don't think I have even read about owls doing this.
> Anybody else familiar with this?
>
> Sadly, of course, I did not have my camera on hand.
>
> Interested in others comments
>
> Jill
I was at a Birds of Prey Foundation presentation on the 19th, where I
learned that the violent winds not too long ago blew huge numbers of
baby owls and hawks out of the nest or blew nests down.
Date: 4/21/18 12:02 pm From: David Tønnessen <davidtonnessenx...> Subject: [cobirds] Nashville Warbler Sinton Pond El Paso
I had a female (western ssp) Nashville Warbler in with the Yellow-rumped and Orange-crowned Warbler flock at Sinton Pond about an hour ago today 4/21. The bird looks and behaves similar to the Orange-crowned Warblers at first glance, but look for a grayer head and bold complete eye-ring with no eyestripe. There was only one warbler flock all seeming to stick together, and making rounds from the northwest side of the pond, down to the creek and around the east side (and perhaps back to the northwest side again). I did not detect the Lucy's Warbler in this flock today.
Date: 4/21/18 7:58 am From: Ted Floyd <tedfloyd57...> Subject: [cobirds] Free birding trip, e. Boulder County, TODAY, 1pm
Hey, all.
Nothing like an 11th-hour announcement, eh? But, hey, that's how it is with birding in spring storms. Anyhoo, the Erie Community Library is offering a *free bird walk this afternoon, starting at 1pm.* The date and time were selected months ago; the "great" weather is a last-minute lagniappe.
*We will meet at 1pm at Erie Reservoir, today, Sat., Apr. 21, off US 287 in Erie.* This is just north of the gnarly intersection with Arapahoe Road. Oldtimers call this waterbody "Safeway Pond." Because it is immediately north of the Safeway. From Erie Rez, we'll go to other places, as yet unknown. All are welcome, none may complain. Bring your dogs, parents, smartphones, Yerba Mate to share w/the leaders, etc. Speaking of the leaders: Yours Truly and Kristin Spencer. No RSVP necessary. Just show up.
A few birds from yesterday around Boulder County: Boulder Rez had a Savannah Sparrow, Vesper Sparrows, Eared and Horned grebes, and many swallows; Lagerman Rez had a flyover Long-billed Curlew, a Least Sandpiper, and an unidentified peep; Lookout road near the summit of Gun Barrel Hill had a Burrowing Owl; and Baseline Rez had a Common Loon and bazillions of swallows. A quick story about the loon. Hannah Floyd and I were driving past, and she said, "There's probably a loon out there today." The rest is history.
A couple days ago, there was a Northern Mockingbird just south of Stearns Lake. I don't see why it wouldn't still be there.
I posted this yesterday about an owl, but as OWL-Douglas county.
However, it s really a questions about owl behavior.
Jill Boice
I saw something very unusual Wednesday night. My daughter, Run,
volunteers at a ranch near Castlerock. She does evening chores. At
dusk, we were near the chicken coop and saw a large Great Horned Owl
sitting in a spindly pine, very close by. Under the adult was what
looked like one or two owlets. I was wondering how that owlet got over
to the little tree that clearly did not have a nest in it. Suddenly the
adult (she, presumably) spooked and rose up, with her large owlet
grasped in her talons and carried it to a tree maybe 30 feet away. It
deposited the youngster in there somewhere. A short time later she flew
further away, to the top of another tree and began hooting.
I have never seen a bird carry its young like that. Sort of like a mama
cat might do. I don't think I have even read about owls doing this.
Anybody else familiar with this?
Sadly, of course, I did not have my camera on hand.
Date: 4/20/18 6:49 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Yard Arrivals - Centennial (Arapahoe)
Upon returning from work this afternoon, I was greeted by a collection of small, brown birds. Inspecting them, I found two White-crowned Sparrows, a Vesper, a continuing Lincoln's Sparrow, and, behind them all, a Hermit Thrush. The White-crowned and Vesper and thrush seem to have shown up in the past 24 hours, as they weren't there yesterday. The Vesper was a new yard bird for me.
Soon after, a Great Blue Heron flew low over my yard. My chihuahua-terrier, who's usually blissfully unaware of birds, couldn't help but chase after and growl at the apparent monster above us.
Date: 4/20/18 2:46 pm From: Pam Piombino <piombino.pam...> Subject: [cobirds] THIS FIELD TRIP MOVED TO SUNDAY, APRIL 22!! Migration field trip with Luke Pheneger
DUE TO THE SNOWY/RAINY WEATHER FORECAST FOR TOMORROW MORNING, LUKE ASKS THAT YOU MEET SAME TIME/PLACE BUT ON SUNDAY RATHER THAN SATURDAY
This outing is brought to you by Boulder County Audubon:
Shorebird Migration at Walden-Sawhill Ponds and So Much More!
Saturday, April 21, 2018, 7 a.m.-10ish
Free, no limit
Leader, Luke Pheneger, a stellar Teen Naturalist
This is the prime window for shorebird fallout at the ponds and marshes of this lovely wildlife area. This is the period in which you are most likely to find Marbled Godwits, Short and Long-billed Dowitchers, Long-billed Curlews, Whimbrels, Phalaropes, Sandpipers, Ploves, Ibis, Avocets and Black-necked Stilts. These birds stop to refuel before winging their way to the plains and arctic tundra to breed. The ponds should also feature Cinnamon and Blue-winged Teals as well as a host of other ducks.
As a bonus, it is also the peak of migration for Broad-winged Hawks. Early warblers that should be present include Orange-crowned, Yellow-rumped and almost anything else. Bitterns and Rails are moving in too!
Meet at the Cottonwood Marsh parking lot off of 75th Street. Bring the usual gear, good walking shoes, hats, water, snacks, scopes and binoculars.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 09:45:00 Total observation time: 1.75 hours
Official Counter: Debbie James
Observers: Frank Coons, Jane Haddock
Visitors: Jane Haddock and Frank Coons arrived about 9:30 MDT and despite immanent rain, said they wanted to go on up to the station. There were a remarkable number of migrators that we were able to count before rain/snow drove us off. Jane and Frank were a great help. There were several hikers and bikers on the trail, one biker, from Minnisota, stopped to ask about a bald eagle nesting in a tree that toppled over where he lives. He added that they've had a very cold winter and that ice melt is not expected for quite some time.
Weather: Weather report had fluxuating start times for rain. I went an hour early hoping to get more time in, but then rain was supposed to start at 9:30 MDT so didn't think I had time to hike up the mnt. but conducted count from parking lot. Turns out it rain didn't begin until 9:45. The sky quickly became 100% overcast, which made seeing identifying marks on birds very difficult--they appeared all dark underneath. Humidity high--46%, cold wind but only about 10 mph until rain/snow began.
Raptor Observations: Locals observed were 3 Red Tail Hawks--two appearing to be in courtship; 4 Turkey Vultures; and one buteo in severe molt--missing some primaries and several tail feathers--big gap in tail. Overcast skies made this bird appear completely dark and we were unable to identify species. The earlier migrators I saw flew low over Ridge, north to the end and then would circle to gain altitude before heading out of sight. Migrators over West Ridge were very high, except for Ferruginous Hawk that was low enough to see light underbelly and appreciate its size.
Non-raptor Observations: Other birds seen or heard: 2 Western Meadowlark; 4 House Finch; 1 Black-billed Magpie; 2 Common Crow; 2 Raven--one carrying something large and round in its beak; 1 American Robin.
Predictions: Unfortunately weather shows rain and snow showers for tomorrow morning. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Hi all, No photos, but I believe I refound the Lucy's at Sinton today before the weather came in, fyi. I also saw my FOS Orange-Crowned Warbler and FOS Chipping Sparrows there and some nice Western Bluebirds there. Lots of beautiful Yellow-rumped Warblers about including Audubon's Myrtles and a few that I think were hybrids.
Diana Beatty Colorado Springs
On Thu, Apr 19, 2018 at 7:43 PM, 'kent nelson' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Birders, > > I was at Sinton Pond for more than an hour around noon and did not see the > Lucy's Warbler. Two female Hooded Mergansers were on the pond, a Cooper's > Hawk flew from tree to tree, and a dozen Yellow-rumped Warblers were > present. A few Song Sparrows were about, too. And I found a single Bushtit > foraging at the SW corner of the pond, clearly not the warbler. Alas. > > Kent Nelson > Ouray > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<332408690.2946687.1524188589591...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<332408690.2946687.1524188589591...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
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******
All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost.
Date: 4/20/18 1:35 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] Fort Collins Miscellany on Friday, April 20.
Things seemed kind of stirred up today, as we went from partly sunny to light rain between 10am and 1pm. I guess everything has a right to be shaken up after the recent winds.
In my apartment complex courtyard about a mile east of the CSU campus were:
Lincoln's Sparrow (been present for about a week, not normal for this property)
Song Sparrow (yard bird #126), I have lived here 21 years.
Red Crossbill (few that sounded like Type 2s were briefly in the cones of a tall spruce)
Sheldon Lake at City Park had a female Hooded Merganser at noon sleeping with two Mallards on the southside log. Not normal for this location.
At Grandview Cemetery:
Two gray-headed Dark-eyed Juncos (not normal, obviously birds on the move from somewhere to the mountains). Also saw two pink-sided, which is the most common overwintering type and which seemingly had all cleared out for points north (that is, until these two appeared today).
Red-tailed Hawk and Great Horned Owl continue on their respective nests.
Black-capped Chickadees cleaning out a second cavity in the same American Elm where they were cleaning out a different one a few days ago.
Small flock of five Mountain Chickadees was new, again, birds on the move to the mountains, presumably.
Small flock of four Mourning Doves flew over, FOY for Grandview Cemetery.
I had a couple of hours to spare so I went to the western edge of the Pawnee Grasslands to look for Longspurs. I found 8-10 Chestnut-collared Longspurs along Weld County Road 114 between county roads 45 and 47 with at least 5 of these being males. I had the pleasant experience of watching a male on the ground at about 35 feet. I then found a small group of 3-4 Chestnut-collared Longspurs along Weld County Road 49 about 1/2 mile south of County Road 114. Three of these were also males and I watched another male on the ground at about 70 feet.
I did not find McCown's Longspur, but again I only had a couple of hours. I encountered numerous flocks of Vesper Sparrows along the route totaling about 50 birds.
Date: 4/20/18 11:41 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: DFO crosses 200 and celebrates with Wild Turkey on the rocks! Plus 2 new May trips open!
Ah, now that the DFO web page has updated with the current Big Year results
I see I was incorrect - our #200 for the DFO Big Year 2018 was
actually *Greater
Roadrunner*, also at Two Buttes, which also preceded the celebration with
the Wild Turkey on the rocks, as it turns out.
David Suddjian
Ken Caryl Valley
Littleton, CO
On Fri, Apr 20, 2018 at 10:17 AM, David Suddjian <dsuddjian...>
wrote:
> This week's DFO trip to southeastern Colorado helped us to zoom past 200
> species for the DFO Big Year 2018. It was at Two Buttes in Baca County that *Nor.
> Rough-winged Swallow* took the #200 honors (if my calculations are
> correct... our Big Year page is not yet updated). And we all soon after
> celebrated with a Wild Turkey on the rocks to celebrate. It is a great way
> to start the morning! I think the Big Year stood at 208 following that
> trip. (Photo by Diane Roberts)
>
>
>
> *DFO has added two new trips to its May schedule*, now available here for
> registration:
> https://dfobirds.org/FieldTrips/UpcomingTrips.aspx >
> *May 1* - Southeastern Colorado focused on Otero and Crowley counties.
>
> *May 22* - Southwestern Metro Area
>
> And you will see that on overnight to Grand Junction area in early June is
> already available for registration, as we seek to make overnight trips
> available a little earlier than the usual one month.
>
> David Suddjian
> Ken Caryl Valley
> Littleton, CO
>
>
>
Date: 4/20/18 10:43 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Hanover Fire update
A couple updates from Bill Maynard. The Hanover Woodlot was saved!! So,
the pair of Ladder-backed Woodpeckers that are breeding there, should be
okay. The Chico Birder Brunch is ON for tomorrow still.
On Fri, Apr 20, 2018 at 8:43 AM, linda hodges <hikerhodges...> wrote:
> Since a home was lost on DeGroot road, I fear for the Burrowing Owls at
> DeGroot and Hanover.
>
> If anyone can report on that area, I'd appreciate hearing about it.
>
> Thanks,
>
> *Linda Hodges*
>
> *Colorado Springs*
>
>
> On Fri, Apr 20, 2018 at 4:07 AM, Brandon <flammowl17...> wrote:
>
>> As of last night the Hanover Fire in El Paso/Pueblo Counties is 100%
>> contained and all evacuation areas are open. So, Hanover Road should now
>> be open, so people can get to Chico Basin Ranch again. The Ranch lost some
>> pasture and animals it sounds like, in eastern part of the Ranch. All the
>> usual birding locations didn't burn at all, it appears! We assume the
>> woodlot on Hanover Road, which was an ebird hotspot, likely burned down,
>> though when someone goes along Hanover Road soon, then we'll know for sure.
>>
>> Brandon K. Percival
>> Pueblo West, CO
>>
>> Sent from my Android
>>
>> --
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>> "Colorado Birds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...>
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>> <SyDLpOw...>
>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CA%2BXeEuWz%<2BSENTqE6vYKv49PxzFGFjqbL2UCQP1cSUY0SyDLpOw...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>>
>
>
Date: 4/20/18 9:17 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] DFO crosses 200 and celebrates with Wild Turkey on the rocks! Plus 2 new May trips open!
This week's DFO trip to southeastern Colorado helped us to zoom past 200
species for the DFO Big Year 2018. It was at Two Buttes in Baca County
that *Nor.
Rough-winged Swallow* took the #200 honors (if my calculations are
correct... our Big Year page is not yet updated). And we all soon after
celebrated with a Wild Turkey on the rocks to celebrate. It is a great way
to start the morning! I think the Big Year stood at 208 following that
trip. (Photo by Diane Roberts)
*May 1* - Southeastern Colorado focused on Otero and Crowley counties.
*May 22* - Southwestern Metro Area
And you will see that on overnight to Grand Junction area in early June is
already available for registration, as we seek to make overnight trips
available a little earlier than the usual one month.
Date: 4/20/18 7:43 am From: linda hodges <hikerhodges...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Hanover Fire update
Since a home was lost on DeGroot road, I fear for the Burrowing Owls at
DeGroot and Hanover.
If anyone can report on that area, I'd appreciate hearing about it.
Thanks,
*Linda Hodges*
*Colorado Springs*
On Fri, Apr 20, 2018 at 4:07 AM, Brandon <flammowl17...> wrote:
> As of last night the Hanover Fire in El Paso/Pueblo Counties is 100%
> contained and all evacuation areas are open. So, Hanover Road should now
> be open, so people can get to Chico Basin Ranch again. The Ranch lost some
> pasture and animals it sounds like, in eastern part of the Ranch. All the
> usual birding locations didn't burn at all, it appears! We assume the
> woodlot on Hanover Road, which was an ebird hotspot, likely burned down,
> though when someone goes along Hanover Road soon, then we'll know for sure.
>
> Brandon K. Percival
> Pueblo West, CO
>
> Sent from my Android
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Colorado Birds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...>
> To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/CA%2BXeEuWz%2BSENTqE6vYKv49PxzFGFjqbL2UCQP
> <1cSUY0SyDLpOw...>
> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CA%2BXeEuWz%<2BSENTqE6vYKv49PxzFGFjqbL2UCQP1cSUY0SyDLpOw...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>
Date: 4/20/18 7:31 am From: Amber Carver <caramb22...> Subject: [cobirds] CFO Convention Paper Session
Hello, All!
Just a reminder that the deadline to submit abstracts for the paper session at this year’s Colorado Field Ornithologists convention is only a week away! Please submit your abstract to me via email in word or pdf format by Friday the 27th. Feel free to contact me with questions about the convention and paper session.
Date: 4/20/18 5:25 am From: 'John D' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Great Egret Rampart Park Colorado Springs
CO Birders :
Looked out of my window this morning and found a Great Egret in the south west retention pond of Rampart Park ( easiest access of Mirage Drive ) , didn,t stay long headed north . Also 5 White-faced Ibis overflew , reasonable chance that both these birds are at Kettle Lakes.
John Drummond
Colorado Springs
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Date: 4/20/18 3:07 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Hanover Fire update
As of last night the Hanover Fire in El Paso/Pueblo Counties is 100% contained and all evacuation areas are open. So, Hanover Road should now be open, so people can get to Chico Basin Ranch again. The Ranch lost some pasture and animals it sounds like, in eastern part of the Ranch. All the usual birding locations didn't burn at all, it appears! We assume the woodlot on Hanover Road, which was an ebird hotspot, likely burned down, though when someone goes along Hanover Road soon, then we'll know for sure.
Hi all, I saw something very unusual last night. My daughter, Run,
volunteers at a ranch near Castlerock. She does evening chores At
dusk, we were near the chicken coop and saw a large Great Horned Owl
sitting in a spindly pine, very close by. Under the adult was what
looked like one or two owlets. I was wondering how that owlet got over
to the little tree that clearly did not have a nest in it. Suddenly the
adult (she, presumably) spooked and rose up, with her large owlet
grasped in her talons and carried it to a tree maybe 30 feet away. It
deposited the youngster in there somewhere. A short time later she flew
further away, to the top of another tree and began hooting.
I have never seen a bird carry its young like that. Sort of like a mama
cat might do. I don't think I have even read about owls doing this.
Anybody else familiar with this?
Sadly, of course, I did not have my camera on hand.
Date: 4/19/18 7:06 pm From: Sally Waterhouse <smwaterh...> Subject: [cobirds] White-faced Ibis behavior Lake County
16 White-faced Ibis were flying and circling both high and low over Forebay Reservoir located above Twin Lakes this morning. They continued to do so for 30 minutes and may have continued but I departed. They never landed but would glide low to the water and through the scope (though still at a distance) they appeared to put their beaks into the water. I have never seen this type of behavior with Ibis. Comments??
Birders,
I was at Sinton Pond for more than an hour around noon and did not see the Lucy's Warbler. Two female Hooded Mergansers were on the pond, a Cooper's Hawk flew from tree to tree, and a dozen Yellow-rumped Warblers were present. A few Song Sparrows were about, too. And I found a single Bushtit foraging at the SW corner of the pond, clearly not the warbler. Alas.
Kent NelsonOuray
Date: 4/19/18 6:37 pm From: 'Dan Stringer' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Weld County Birding
Tom Whitten and I had a productive trip to Weld County, covering some ground and emptying a full tank of gas. Most of the day was high-velocity, cold winds. We searched numerous spots for Sharp-tailed Grouse and found two on CR111 1/2 mile north of CR128 (thanks Dave Leatherman). We found a Mountain Plover on CR100 1 1/2 miles west of Hwy 390, previously seen by Gary Lefko. Then we actually found something on our own : ) a few McCown's Longspurs mixing with Horned Larks along the dirt roads back toward Briggsdale. Also a Burrowing Owl, 1 Lark Sparrow, 3 Vesper Sparrow, and a few Say's Phoebe on the drive. Raptors for the day included 5 Rough-legged Hawks, 1 Ferruginous Hawk, 3 Swainson's Hawks.
Loloff Reservoir had many ducks including Northern Pintail and Canvasback, and 1 White-faced Ibis, 4 Black-necked Stilt, 1 Lesser Yellowlegs, 2 Greater Yellowlegs, 4 Baird's Sandpiper, 5 Least Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Sandpiper. Also a few Barn Swallows and Tree Swallows. . Lower Latham was quiet with 1 Black-necked Stilt, numerous Marsh Wrens and 6 Northern Harriers just to the west, water levels are setting up nicely for shorebird habitat. At Beebe Draw we saw 7 American Avocet.
With the sun finally out and the winds being warmer, the large pond on the west side of the road opposite Behrens Reservoir (private property, view from road) had the highlight of the day, 2 Whimbrel which we scoped and photographed on the ground and in flight.. Also 10 Black-necked Stilt, 4 White-faced Ibis, 2 Solitary Sandpipers, 1 American Pipit, several Savanah Sparrows.
Bird behavior moment of the day was straight west of Behrens Res about a mile or so, at a pond on the south, lake on the north, name which I don't remember, an American Avocet swimming. We'd seen them in fairly deep water today vs. their usual, but this one straight-up swam from about ten feet out, toward the shore, and when it's feet hit the bottom it casually strolled around like a shorebird. Also in that area were 7 Yellow-headed Blackbirds and 1 Accipiter sp.. Spring is way upon us.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Roger Rouch
Observers: Bill Wuerthele, Heidi Hayes, Joel Chapa, Rob Reilly
Visitors: A few curious hikers stopped for a short time with questions.
Weather: Temperatures from the mid 30's to the mid-50's with a good horizon cloud backdrop for spotting early, then mostly clear in the afternoon. Light winds generally from the east around 2 Bft all day. Light atmospheric haze.
Raptor Observations: Interesting birds were a Broad-winged early in the day low over Rooney Valley and a below eye level Osprey on the east side of the ridge. Other migrants were mostly over the ridge and to the west and tended to be higher fliers after mid-morning and continued through the watch. Local activity was relativity light, but included a Peregrine Falcon. (Steve and Carol were stationed across the valley near two pines and alerted us a couple of times to activity there. A few of their sightings may have been spotted by us and generally could not be accurately identified due to distance, but it seemed for the most part they were beyond our detection limits for whatever reason).
Non-raptor Observations: Black-billed Magpie, Dark-eyed Junco, Western Meadow Lark, Woodhouse's Scrubjay, Common Raven, White-throated Swift, Bushtit, Townsend's Solitaire, American Robin.
Predictions: The incoming front and possible clouds for good spotting could make for an interesting day. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
At Osprey Picnic Area, Rock Canyon, below Pueblo Reservoir dam:
*Vaux's Swift *- 1 photographed from 8:34am to 8:47am from the West Side of Osprey Picnic Area, last seen flying west, with Swallows. Lots of searching later, didn't produce the bird again. {The wet weather coming, tomorrow and Saturday, might be good days to be looking over the swallows}. I quickly noticed both the light throat, buffy rump on a small swift.
Also, I saw a Orange-crowned Warbler, a male Wilson's Warbler, and a Merlin.
Later, Bill Maynard, Lynne Miller, and I saw a *Caspian Tern* flying over Osprey Picnic Area, with some Franklin's Gull.
Bill and I saw a Peregrine Falcon at Cottonwood Picnic Area.
Date: 4/19/18 10:27 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: VAUX'S SWIFT Pueblo
As usual, the swift seems to be a 5 minute wonder. A few of us are still looking at swallows in Lake Pueblo State Park, below the dam.
Brandon K. Percival Pueblo West, CO
Sent from my Android
On Thu, Apr 19, 2018, 8:44 AM Brandon <flammowl17...> wrote:
> Pale throated and rumped small swift, flying over Arkansas River West part > of Osprey Picnic Area with swallows. Got photos of light throat saw pale > rump. > > Brandon K. Percival > Pueblo West, CO > > Sent from my Android >
"Purple" or "Blue" headed Mallards seem to be much less common than other prevalent color variant, the "white-headed" birder.
Joe Roller, Denver
On Thu, Apr 19, 2018 at 10:26 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Can anyone enlighten me and the observers about a male Mallard that seems > consistently to show a purple head -- not simply reflected purple that we > sometimes see? > > Carole & Dan Blake have seen this bird fairly often in the past two weeks. > From the picture, the Mallard looks like an ordinary wild Mallard drake - > but with this purple head. > > > Hugh Kingery > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ms > gid/cobirds/<162debac270-c8d-1462...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162debac270-c8d-1462...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
Date: 4/19/18 9:30 am From: Stephen Getty <sgetty...> Subject: [cobirds] Lucy's Warbler, El Paso County
COBirders,
Lucy's Warbler still present at SW corner of Sinton Pond.
It was feeding low in a clump of bushes about 15 feet (to SW) from edge of pond and the large, gnarled willow. According to John Drummond, it had frequented this cluster of bushes before.
Date: 4/19/18 9:26 am From: 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Purple headed Mallard
Can anyone enlighten me and the observers about a male Mallard that seems consistently to show a purple head -- not simply reflected purple that we sometimes see?
Carole & Dan Blake have seen this bird fairly often in the past two weeks. From the picture, the Mallard looks like an ordinary wild Mallard drake - but with this purple head.
Hugh Kingery
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Date: 4/19/18 7:44 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] VAUX'S SWIFT Pueblo
Pale throated and rumped small swift, flying over Arkansas River West part of Osprey Picnic Area with swallows. Got photos of light throat saw pale rump.
Observation start time: 09:30:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 4.5 hours
Official Counter: Joyce Commercon
Observers: Jim Banks
Visitors: Jim Banks arrived an hour before the "official" watch began and related that during that time he saw no migrants pass by and little avian movement of any kind really. Cindy, currently in this year's ASGD Audubon Master Birder class, made it up to the Ridge for her first visit and was able to see the juvenile Red-tailed Hawk migrant. Nancy, a budding birder and also a first-time visitor, came up with her bird book and binoculars, ready to watch for and learn about raptors and other birds found along the Ridge. The extra eyes and bird-related conversations were much appreciated today.
Weather: It was a sunny day with a featureless blue sky and zero percent cloud-cover until noon MST, when cloud-cover shot up to 5-percent at the horizons. In the last half-hour of the watch, thin, diaphanous clouds did move in, mostly to the north, to give about 50-percent coverage. Easterly winds were very mild in the morning, increasing to bft 2 with some sustained gusts reaching bft 3. Temperatures ranged from 10 C to 12 C. Visibility was good. The Denver Basin area was lacking its usual orangey-brown haze, probably thanks to yesterday's crazy-strong winds.
Raptor Observations: There were not many migrants counted today, but the featureless blue, that dominated the sky for all but the last half-hour of the watch, would have made it difficult to catch any migrants if they were high in the sky. Not too long before noon MST, a streaky, adult, female Northern Harrier came from the east, passed directly over the platform, and resolutely headed straight west to TwoPines where she circled up very high and without pause shot again westward; not the behavior of a local. Just before noon, a juvenile, light-morph Red-tailed Hawk migrated north directly overtop and along the Ridge. In the last half-hour of the watch, newly-formed, translucent cloud-cover just over the platform allowed a high-flying adult Swainson's Hawk to be spotted (at the limit of the unaided eye); it circled up a few times and headed northwest. The local Turkey Vultures were most active in the late morning, cruising up and down the western valley. A local, adult Sharp-shinned Hawk crossed the Ridge to the south and headed southeast in Rooney Valley. One of the local Red-tailed Hawks was observed, near the Cabrini Shrine area, to drop down in a dramatic, long stoop, finally opening its wings and pulling-up immediately above a "swerving-out-the-way" Common Raven. The Red-tail then chased the Raven briefly before they parted ways.
Non-raptor Observations: Activity along the Ridge seemed subdued, especially in the morning, but several White-throated Swifts, at least, were flitting about, up and down the Ridge and over by Cabrini, in loose groups of about 10-20 birds. Also seen or heard were Black-billed Magpie, Mountain Chickadee, Common Raven, Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, a swallow species, Bushtit, and American Crow. A couple of elk were spotted on the eastern flank of the Ridge below the platform in the morning. Later, six Mule Deer grazed close to the Ridge base near the same area. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
We believe, the only part of Chico Basin Ranch that burned, is the eastern part, where most birders don't go. It appears all the usual birding spots on the Ranch didn't burn! The one E-bird Hotspot that may have burned, is the Woodlot on Hanover Road, that has had Black-throated Blue, Chestnut-sided, Hooded Warblers, and this year breeding Ladder-backed Woodpeckers. Quite a bit of the Cholla grasslands along Hanover Road, certainly burned as well. As far as I know, non-residents aren't allowed on Hanover Road yet, so we don't officially know if the Woodlot has burned, though there is a pretty good chance it has. I've made a map, with roads, showing where the fire has burned. If you want me to e-mail it, I will send it to you.
Date: 4/18/18 3:32 pm From: Ted Floyd <tedfloyd57...> Subject: [cobirds] San Luis Valley, Apr. 15 & 16
Hello, birders.
Hannah Floyd and Andrew Floyd and I visited the San Luis Valley this past Sunday & Monday, Apr. 15 & 16.
We started off Sunday afternoon at Smith Reservoir State Wildlife Area, Costilla County, where the birds were shoulder-to-shoulder straight across the rez. eBird queried pretty much all our counts. Amid 100+ *Eared Grebes,* we saw several *Horned Grebes.* Also *Bonaparte's Gulls* scattered across the lake.
Then we spent several birdless hours at Great Sand Dunes National Park, Alamosa & Saguache counties. Well, almost birdless--The *Common Ravens* were most excellent. And lots of cool arthropods, plants, and rocks.
A bit after sundown on Sunday, we went owling at the Zapata Ranch, Alamosa County, where we heard *Long-eared Owl, Western Screech-Owl,* and *Great Horned Owl.*
Monday morning at the Zapata Ranch, we saw a *Lewis's Woodpecker.* Also one (1) each of *Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay, Pinyon Jay, Bushtit, Audubon's Warbler,* and *Cassin's Finch.* And a great throng of *Spotted Towhees.*
At the nearly Medano Ranch, Alamosa County, we found recently returned *Barn Swallows,* a lost *Mountain Chickadee, Mountain Bluebirds* at nest sites, a *Sage Thrasher,* 4 *Sagebrush Sparrows,* and likely migrant *White-crowned* and *Vesper* sparrows.
Up the road at the Colorado Reptile Park, Mosca, Saguache County, we overheard speculation that recently hatched *Emus* were roadrunners. This strange and wondrous place also hosted numerous *Yellow-headed Blackbirds* and *Great-tailed Grackles,* plus several singing *Pied-billed Grebes.*
We picnicked at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area, Saguache County, which was loaded with birds. *American Bitterns, Snowy Egret, Great Egret,* 150+ *White-faced Ibises,* 75+ ibises with brown faces, *Virginia Rails, Soras, Sandhill Cranes, Black-necked Stilts, Lesser Yellowlegs,* flycatching *Franklin's Gulls,* plenitudinous *Marsh Wrens,* and a *Savannah Sparrow.*
*Brown ibis, Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area, Saguache Co., Apr. 16. We saw many such birds. Are they SY White-faced Ibises? How do you tell them from Glossy Ibises?*
* It snowed! No, it didn't. These greasewoods flourish (sort of) in the alkaline flatlands of the San Luis Valley. Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area, Saguache* * Co., Apr. 16.*
Date: 4/18/18 2:29 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Neighborhood Jays - Centennial (Arapahoe)
It's not unusual to see or hear Blue Jays around my west Centennial neighborhood (Arapahoe). But lately they've been behaving a bit differently. For the first time since I moved here (March 2016), I've noticed a Blue Jay pair making frequent visits to my yard. I think there's nesting a few houses over, but I've spotted them collecting nesting material, sharing food from my feeder, and visiting my bird bath. They've also been mimicking Cooper's Hawks non-stop, which has misled me more than once now.
One of those misleading moments...involved actual calling Cooper's Hawks. While walking through my front yard (sans optics), I heard a Cooper's, figured it was a jay, and then saw a series of accipiters fly over. Three passed by. I assume two were a local Cooper's pair. I don't know about the third. Maybe an interloper. But it could have been a female sharpie being escorted out. I didn't get very good looks at any of them.
Also, at least one Woodhouse's Scrub Jay is still in my neighborhood. I hear it while walking my dogs, but rarely see it anymore. Perhaps they're finding better food than they find in my sporadically filled feeder.
*Others*For the better part of the past month, I've had visits from a Lincoln's Sparrow. I can't be sure it's the same one that showed up relatively early in mid-March, as I'll sometimes go a day or so without seeing it.
Today, a House Finch pair were tearing apart my apple blossoms. I watched them from my kitchen. From there, I couldn't tell whether they were eating the petals or finding something else in the flowers. I noticed them seeming to drop most of the petals, though. But an inspection of the remaining blossoms didn't reveal any insects I could see (with my eyes).
Not my report -- but Red Crossbills are being seen all over Arapahoe and Denver, according to eBird and Facebook reports. Neat.
Perhaps we birders need to encourage State Lawmakers to make birding a permitted activity, and require all of us to purchase an annual Birding License.
If we can contribute financially directly to Colorado Dept of Fish and Game, maybe it would be win-win.
Registrations already received for the Longmont convention, May 17-20,
2018, are in line with the last handful of annual CFO conventions. We
still have room for more people on field trips and other events, such as
Thursday’s Welcome Picnic, Friday's Happy Hour/Reception, and Saturday's
Annual Banquet and Meeting.
But if you have not yet registered for the convention, and want to join the
other 200 or so other friendly birders at the convention, you will need to
act soon.
Online registration for the convention will be open through *May 2*, but
anyone wanting to order a convention t-shirt or avoid a $10 late
registration fee will need to register by *this coming Sunday, April 22*,
to facilitate our ability to get timely numbers to our various vendors.
Registration is available by using the “Register Now” button on the Next
Convention page of our website (
https://cobirds.org/CFO/Conventions/Next.aspx), and anyone wanting to stay
at the convention headquarters at the Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel in
Longmont, 303-776-2000, can get a discount by identifying yourself as a CFO
member.
Date: 4/18/18 9:17 am From: Pam Piombino <piombino.pam...> Subject: [cobirds] A Really Big Night with Ted Floyd
This trip is brought to you by Boulder County Audubon and is part of our
fundraising series, "Interludes with Nature". These trips underwrite our
Teen Naturalist Camp Scholarship Program. We send 3-4 promising young
naturalists to either Hog Island Audubon Camp, off of the coast of Maine,
or to the American Birding Association's Young Birder Camp in the Colorado
Rockies.
“A Really BIG Night” with Ted Floyd
- June 1, 2018 08:21pm - 05:33am
-
Friday night, June 1, sundown at 8:21 p.m., til sunrise, 5:33 a.m., June 2
*Note: This trip is **NOT for the faint of heart nor weak of knee!! See
below.**
This has to be the most unique Interludes trip that we have ever
offered. The Boulder birding community knows Ted as a consummate
ornithologist, erudite writer and master of birdsong. This trip will take
place right after the full moon, so you will have good lighting later in
the evening. You will be birding at a great time for hearing and possibly
seeing owls and will be surprised how many other families of birds call
during the night. Attuned ears will hear bats to bullfrogs and
grasshoppers to grebes.
Henry Beston, writing in the early 20th Century: “Our fantastic
civilization has fallen out of touch with many aspects of nature, and with
none more completely than with night. Are modern folk, perhaps, afraid of
night? Do they fear that vast serenity, the mystery of infinite space, the
austerity of stars? Having made themselves at home in a civilization
obsessed with power, which explains its whole world in terms of energy, do
they fear at night for their dull acquiescence and the pattern of their
beliefs?
**Before you say, “yes” please consider that we will be walking many miles
through mosquito infested marshes and on steep mountain trails in the
dark. NO artificial lighting allowed. This trip is ideal for people who
are adventurous, fit and mildly insane. *
*Cancellation Policy: We require full payment within a week of the email
indicating that you intend to reserve a spot. If you have to cancel, there
will be a $20.00 fee. If you cancel less than three weeks before the
event, the money will only be refunded if the spot can be filled, but there
will still be a $20.00 fee. Please consider it a donation for the fine work
that Boulder County Audubon does and how much work it is to arrange these
trips and keep track of the attendees.*
*· PLEASE DO NOT CONFUSE THESE OUTINGS WITH THE CLASSES OFFERED BY
OUR SISTER ORGANIZATION BOULDER COUNTY NATURE ASSOCIATION!! (BCNA)*
Date: 4/18/18 6:12 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Hanover area roads closed
I did get an update from Chico Basin Ranch a hour ago, here is what they said.
"The fire burned across the ranch last night, at this point all people and structures are safe. We will know more as day breaks."
Brandon K. Percival Pueblo West, CO
On Wed, Apr 18, 2018 at 4:56 AM, Brandon <flammowl17...> wrote:
> In-case anyone was planning to go out on Hanover Road in El Paso County, > Hanover Fire Station, or to Chico Basin Ranch (few area) today, the fires > have closed roads in this area. Not sure when these roads might be back > open. There looks to be rain in forecast for Friday and Saturday, this > area certainly needs that. I still haven't heard if any part of Chico > Basin Ranch has burned. Looks like only the banding station, Casita Area > and Vega Pond is in evacuation area. The Pueblo County portion of the > Ranch isn't in evacuation area so far. > > Brandon K. Percival > Pueblo West, CO > > Sent from my Android >
Date: 4/18/18 3:56 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Hanover area roads closed
In-case anyone was planning to go out on Hanover Road in El Paso County, Hanover Fire Station, or to Chico Basin Ranch (few area) today, the fires have closed roads in this area. Not sure when these roads might be back open. There looks to be rain in forecast for Friday and Saturday, this area certainly needs that. I still haven't heard if any part of Chico Basin Ranch has burned. Looks like only the banding station, Casita Area and Vega Pond is in evacuation area. The Pueblo County portion of the Ranch isn't in evacuation area so far.
Date: 4/17/18 6:34 pm From: 'Rosanne J.' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Sterne Park, Littleton, Arapahoe County
Continuing Common Merganser pair and at least four babies. Snowy Egret returns; first I've seen it this year. Occasional Double-crested Cormorant, and Belted Kingfisher found at the pond also.
Date: 4/17/18 6:33 pm From: Norman Erthal <normerthal...> Subject: [cobirds] New Guinea birding trip
I am glad to announce a trip to Irian Jaya or western New Guinea for the
June 2019. The beginning date is June 6. We will have experienced local
guides. The length of the trip will be determined by the wishes of the
participants.
We can expect about 300 species of which 175 are endemics and many others
only possible on nearby islands. Some regional endemic families are
treeswifts, megapodes, treecreepers, and sitellas. Endemic families are
berrypeckers, tit berrypeckers, and melampittas. Some interesting families
include 21 Australasian Robins, 28 honeyeaters, 16 birds-of-paradise, 12
kingfishers, 23 pigeons, 28 lories and parrots, and 10 fairywrens.
New Guinea is unfortunately expensive. Lodging even at private houses is
costly as the locals see it as a major income opportunity.
Please contact me directly for information about cost and any other
questions.
Norm Erthal
Arvada, CO
The itinerary is:
June 3 or 4 leave home for Jakarta or Dempasar, Bali
June 6 Day 1 : Arrive in Sorong in northwest Jaya, then take a boat to
Batanta on Waigeo Island, afternoon birding for Red BOP
June 7-8 Day 2-3 : Morning birding, hike for Wilson's BOP, afternoon
birding in Salawati try to find Western Crowned Pigeon.
June 9 Day 4 : Morning birding for King BOP, afternoon boat back to Sorong.
June 10 Day 5 : Fly to Manokwari in the northwest area of New Guinea known
as the Bird’s Neck, then drive to Arfak Mountains.
June 11-14 Day 6-9 : Full day birding in Arfak Mountains
June 12 Day 10 : Morning birding, drive back to town after lunch
June 13 Day 11 : Fly to Biak Island, afternoon birding
June 14 Day 12 : Full day birding
June 15 Day 13 : Fly to Jayapura in northeast Jaya
June 15-19 Day 13-17: Jayapura area – northern lowlands and Lake Sentani,
Niombokrang
June 18 Fly to Wamena in west central Jaya or to Jakarta CJK or Dempasar,
then home or continue to
June 21-26 Day 18-23: Lake Habema
June 27 Return to Jakarta or Dempasar and flight home
Chico Basin Ranch (Colorado E-Bird Birding Hotspot in El Paso and Pueblo Counties) is currently under evacuation orders, because of the Hanover Grass Fires. Not sure if any of the property of large ranch has burned. The fire is moving quickly it sounds like, since the winds are extremely bad right now.
Date: 4/17/18 7:34 am From: Jeff Kehoe <jeff.kehoe...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Grandview Cemetery late Sunday 8April2018 (Fort Collins, Larimer)
Interesting about the juncos. I live west of Loveland on the Big Thompson. This past winter we had quite a mix of gray-headed, pink-sided, oregon and a few slate-colored. Now we have LOTS of juncos - about 100% gray-headed.
Observation start time: 07:45:00
Observation end time: 13:30:00
Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Joyce Commercon
Observers:
Visitors:
Late in the morning, a fairly steady stream of visitors came on to the
platform, mostly only for the view. One pair of hikers asked what birds had
been seen and mentioned it would be a great place to watch for them; of
course, this led to a brief but interesting conversation about HawkWatch
and (spring) raptor monitoring as well as other topics such as what size
prey a raptor might take. Also interested in “things geological”, they
hoped to hike down to see the dinosaur footprints. Later in the afternoon,
another pair of hikers also asked where the dinosaurs footprints were
located. A determined trail runner ran the trail up and down several times,
running up to and stopping briefly on the platform at least three times.
Weather:
It was a mostly cloudy day with scattered cloud-cover ranging from 60 to 70
percent most of the time but increasing to 90 percent by mid-afternoon. The
winds, predominately from the east, were very mild in the morning but
increased somewhat as the day progressed to low level Bft 3. Temperatures
rose from 10 C to 19 C. Visibility was generally good, but an orange-tinged
haze in the Denver Basin eventually spilled into and colored the whitish
haze in the far southeastern valley.
Raptor Observations:
In the earlier part of the morning, most of the migrants tended to pass on
the eastern side of the Ridge, while later in the watch, the migrants
seemed to favor the western valley and ridges. The day leaned toward
accipiters but the highlight was a dark-morph Red-tailed Hawk migrant. The
local Red-tails were very scarce early in the watch but eventually made a
few brief appearances. The local Turkey Vultures swept up and down the
valleys and ridges, once in a group of seven. A local adult Golden Eagle
came north over Rooney Valley, tailed by a pesky Common Raven that followed
it very closely all the way to Green Mountain. A local adult Cooper's Hawk,
with a full crop, was observed to carry then drop a thin stick (or heavy
stalk of grass) over Rooney Valley before it headed west to the SubPeak
area where it met up with another Cooper’s Hawk; they then circled there
together.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Spotted Towhee sang loudly nearby for a good while in the morning. A pair
of Woodhouse's Scrub-Jays shared the platform with me for almost a solid
half-hour. One perched in the dead pine, waiting, while the other walked
around carefully inspecting the platform gravel, occasionally grabbing up
what I assumed were windfall juniper berries; rapid-fire cries of alarm
erupted if I moved too quickly in any direction but then berry-hunting
would recommence. Also seen or heard were Townsend's Solitaire,
Black-billed Magpie, Western Meadowlark, Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon's),
American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, White-throated Swift, Bushtit, a
swallow species, Common Raven, American Crow, and Western Bluebird.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at:
http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur
Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of
the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger
long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie
Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and
Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular.
Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western
Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or
Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome.
The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of
the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from
the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an
old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the
ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through
the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the
ridge.
Today, my brother and I birded Dillon Reservoir and a few other spots around Summit County with much success. Stopping at the Blue River Inlet, we found *Killdeer,* a flyover *American Pipit*, and a slightly early *Lincoln's Sparrow* along the river. Soda Creek Inlet didn't yield much of note, but the Angler Lakes and North Pond Park Area produced three *Cinnamon Teal*, three *Western Grebes *and a probable Clark's, and a male *Barrow's Goldeneye*. An *American Dipper* was singing along the river as well. At the gravel ponds along Highway 9, there was a *Greater Yellowlegs, * several *Green-winged Teal, *nesting *Bald Eagles*, and a *Belted Kingfisher. *A small flock of *Brown-capped *and *Gray-crowned Rosy Finch *were visiting the feeders at Wildernest, along with other mountain species. At the Frisco Marina, there was a male *Wood Duck *and two more *Ospreys. *Just outside of Frisco was an unexpected *Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay*! A *White-throated Sparrow *and a couple *Lincoln's Sparrows* were in the vicinity of a private feeding station last evening as well. On our way out, we stopped at the top of Loveland Pass. This paid off with decent looks at 5 *White-tailed Ptarmagin. *Overall, a great day for birds.
Wow, what a good day. That is far better than any day I have out there. Great pics.
On Monday, April 16, 2018 at 7:56:05 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > I got started earlier today, arriving in the area of where CO-WY-NE come > together about 6:15am. I had success with Sharp-tailed Grouse, seeing 4 of > them between 6:15 and 6:39am. The first one was on the north side of Weld > CR128 about a mile e of Weld CR105. The other three were west of CR111 > about a half mile north of CR128. All were in native or Conservation > Reserve Program grass, and all four eventually flew off on their own > accord. They acted to me the way grouse leave leks after the morning's > activities have concluded. Pics show two females, highly cropped, sorry. > > > > > > Other highlights of the 12-hour visit to the Pawnee Grasslands included: > > > *5 different Rough-legged Hawks > > *1 Northern Shrike > > *4 Loggerhead Shrikes (one of which had impaled two grasshoppers, the > first impaling I've seen this spring) > > *1 Swainson's Hawk (FOY for me) just n of Grover. > > *1 migrant male Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warbler nw of Grover in a riparian > area > > *A modest smattering (i.e., not a zillion) of Vesper Sparrows (compared to > just a few on 4/12 > > *2 Mountain Plovers on the e side of Weld CR79 maybe a half mile south of > SR14 moving in between a winter wheat strip and a fallow field strip (easy > to see in the green winter wheat, virtually invisible in the brown fallow > strip). Interestingly, a nearby Horned Lark was tearing shreds of brown > leaf material from the fallow plants shown in the plover pic (corn or > wheat?) for use in a nest it was apparently making nearby. > > > > > > > *Approximately 10 Chestnut-collared Longspurs (two areas with multiple > individuals were Weld CR115 n of 134 and Weld CR112 between 45 & 49) > > *At A&B Reservoir #1 on Weld CR124 a few miles w of CR77 were two Eared > Grebes, a pair of Canvasbacks and several Ruddy Ducks > > *At Crow Valley CG was a Rock Wren hopping all over the Main Picnic area, > and a female Golden-crowned Kinglet in the sw corner junipers (in the pic, > the wren has a Bold Jumping Spider (*Phidippus audax*) found in a large > hole going down into the ground beside a cottonwood stump). > > > > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins > > > > > >
Date: 4/16/18 6:56 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] Pawnee Grasslands today, 16April2018
I got started earlier today, arriving in the area of where CO-WY-NE come together about 6:15am. I had success with Sharp-tailed Grouse, seeing 4 of them between 6:15 and 6:39am. The first one was on the north side of Weld CR128 about a mile e of Weld CR105. The other three were west of CR111 about a half mile north of CR128. All were in native or Conservation Reserve Program grass, and all four eventually flew off on their own accord. They acted to me the way grouse leave leks after the morning's activities have concluded. Pics show two females, highly cropped, sorry.
Other highlights of the 12-hour visit to the Pawnee Grasslands included:
*5 different Rough-legged Hawks
*1 Northern Shrike
*4 Loggerhead Shrikes (one of which had impaled two grasshoppers, the first impaling I've seen this spring)
*1 Swainson's Hawk (FOY for me) just n of Grover.
*1 migrant male Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warbler nw of Grover in a riparian area
*A modest smattering (i.e., not a zillion) of Vesper Sparrows (compared to just a few on 4/12
*2 Mountain Plovers on the e side of Weld CR79 maybe a half mile south of SR14 moving in between a winter wheat strip and a fallow field strip (easy to see in the green winter wheat, virtually invisible in the brown fallow strip). Interestingly, a nearby Horned Lark was tearing shreds of brown leaf material from the fallow plants shown in the plover pic (corn or wheat?) for use in a nest it was apparently making nearby.
*Approximately 10 Chestnut-collared Longspurs (two areas with multiple individuals were Weld CR115 n of 134 and Weld CR112 between 45 & 49)
*At A&B Reservoir #1 on Weld CR124 a few miles w of CR77 were two Eared Grebes, a pair of Canvasbacks and several Ruddy Ducks
*At Crow Valley CG was a Rock Wren hopping all over the Main Picnic area, and a female Golden-crowned Kinglet in the sw corner junipers (in the pic, the wren has a Bold Jumping Spider (Phidippus audax) found in a large hole going down into the ground beside a cottonwood stump).
Date: 4/16/18 6:46 pm From: Pam Piombino <piombino.pam...> Subject: [cobirds] April Program by Dawn Wilson, Our National Wildlife Refuges: A Regional Tour
Brought to you by Boulder County Audubon, free, public welcome
Our National Wildlife Refuges: A Regional Tour with Dawn Wilson
Tuesday, April 24, 2018, 7:15 p.m.
Unitarian-Universalist Church 5001 Pennsylvania Ave. Boulder, CO
Colorado is home to six national wildlife refuges, with more than a dozen
others within a day’s drive. Dawn’s presentation will take us on a
photographic tour of these very special landscapes with their amazing
opportunities for nature photography. You will learn what wildlife to
expect in different refuges, the best seasons to visit each and tips for
wildlife photography and travel.
Dawn Wilson is a professional, award-winning nature photographer who
specializes in the Western States. She has been recognized as one of the
top-ten female nature photographers to watch. Ms. Wilson’s work has been
published in numerous regional and national publications and is a master
naturalist with the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas. She published her
first book in 2011, *Colorado: Flora, Fauna and Landscapes From the
Perspective of Women *and recently published an ebook titled, *Preparing
for the Next Shoot: Ten Tips to Get You to the Right Place at the Right
Time*.
Date: 4/16/18 4:58 pm From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Rescheduled: Prairie Wonders of the Pawnee National Grassland Field Trip
Hi all
Trip cancelled due to family emergency. I'll reschedule later.
Date: 4/16/18 4:31 pm From: Pam Piombino <piombino.pam...> Subject: [cobirds] Migration field trip with Luke Pheneger
This outing is brought to you by Boulder County Audubon:
Shorebird Migration at Walden-Sawhill Ponds and So Much More!
Saturday, April 21, 2018, 7 a.m.-10ish
Free, no limit
Leader, Luke Pheneger, a stellar Teen Naturalist
This is the prime window for shorebird fallout at the ponds and marshes of this lovely wildlife area. This is the period in which you are most likely to find Marbled Godwits, Short and Long-billed Dowitchers, Long-billed Curlews, Whimbrels, Phalaropes, Sandpipers, Ploves, Ibis, Avocets and Black-necked Stilts. These birds stop to refuel before winging their way to the plains and arctic tundra to breed. The ponds should also feature Cinnamon and Blue-winged Teals as well as a host of other ducks.
As a bonus, it is also the peak of migration for Broad-winged Hawks. Early warblers that should be present include Orange-crowned, Yellow-rumped and almost anything else. Bitterns and Rails are moving in too!
Meet at the Cottonwood Marsh parking lot off of 75th Street. Bring the usual gear, good walking shoes, hats, water, snacks, scopes and binoculars.
Date: 4/16/18 4:17 pm From: <mvjohnski...> Subject: [cobirds] Black Phoebe in San Luis Valley
Yesterday in Rio Grande Gorge, south of Lobatos Bridge, I saw a Black Phoebe (Conejos County). There are less than a dozen reports in my database, and we get this species every few years. Ironically, the first SLV record that I am aware of was one found by Hugh and Urling Kingery in 1996 in the same area. I would suspect they nest somewhere in there. Would be a good summer trip and I would wear my snake gaiters as this is a good area to find a snake too!
Date: 4/16/18 3:47 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Ken Caryl Valley area note
I found *Cooper's Hawks* very hard to come by in the Ken Caryl Valley area this past winter. Then by March 15 birds began to reappear in local breeding territories, returning from wherever it was they went to in the winter. By late March and early April observations of territorial birds and early-season nesting behavior have been frequent for me as I bird in the KC Valley area, where the species is a fairly common breeder. But it wasn't until April 14 that a pair returned that has nested in the immediate area of my house, displaying and calling right off. And today she was placing material on a new nest they had started within about 50 yards of last year's nest, atop an old squirrel nest foundation in a cottonwood. I was interested to note that, not only did most or all of the local pairs clearly not over winter, but that there was about a month delay between mid-March's seasonal return of territorial birds to the local area and the April 14 occupancy of the territory near my home. But once present, the pair has gotten right to business.
In other news, a *White-throated Sparrow* and *Chipping Sparrow* (my 1st of season) appeared at my Ken Caryl yard today. The first *Broad-tailed Hummer *of the year at my yard was April 13 (avg arrival for past 4 years was Apr 10).
A pair of *Eastern Phoebes* was back at the territory located at the confluence of Deer Creek and Docmann Gulch, at Deer Creek Canyon Road x Valley Road.
Date: 4/16/18 3:37 pm From: Karl Stecher Jr. <kstecher...> Subject: re: [cobirds] Little bit of history about the House Sparrow
Should the phenomenon be called "Sparrow Change?"
Karl Stecher
Aurora
----------------------------------------
From: "Robert Righter" <rorighter...>
Sent: Monday, April 16, 2018 3:56 PM
To: "cobirds" <cobirds...>
Subject: [cobirds] Little bit of history about the House Sparrow
Hi All
In the last 25 years the House Sparrow has decreased 62% in the UK, In Canada they have decreased in the last 20 years, and in the Maritime Provinces in Canada declines have approached 90%
The House Sparrow in a tenacious beast. The Sumerians in 3000 BC labeled the House Sparrow as an enemy and a threat. In 1853 the House Sparrow was introduced into North America in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn NY and by the 1870s the species had established itself in every state east of the Mississippi River and in 1895 the first record for Colorado occurred in 1895 at Pueblo.
Good times don't last forever and perhaps we are experiencing a temporary population re-adjustment?
Date: 4/16/18 2:55 pm From: Robert Righter <rorighter...> Subject: [cobirds] Little bit of history about the House Sparrow
Hi All
In the last 25 years the House Sparrow has decreased 62% in the UK, In Canada they have decreased in the last 20 years, and in the Maritime Provinces in Canada declines have approached 90%
The House Sparrow in a tenacious beast. The Sumerians in 3000 BC labeled the House Sparrow as an enemy and a threat. In 1853 the House Sparrow was introduced into North America in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn NY and by the 1870s the species had established itself in every state east of the Mississippi River and in 1895 the first record for Colorado occurred in 1895 at Pueblo.
Good times don’t last forever and perhaps we are experiencing a temporary population re-adjustment?
Date: 4/16/18 10:45 am From: 'arvind panjabi' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Broad-tailed hummer, Larimer Co
A male arrived yesterday, as best I could tell, and today a female was here sitting in the trees next to the feeder. Still waiting for the arrival of ‘waves’ of spotted towhees, but just had my first distant bird singing this morning, several weeks later than usual. Hope they are still on their way. The woods and shrubland are deathly quiet around here. First tree swallows arrived today, and barns arrived over the weekend.
Cheers,
Arvind PanjabiJust south of Horsetooth MountainLarimer Co
Date: 4/16/18 9:12 am From: 'Egret' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Lucy’s Warbler at Sinton Pond
Chris Brobin Manitou Springs,CO
On Monday, April 16, 2018 at 10:03:58 AM UTC-6, Gregg Goodrich wrote:
>
> Kevin Ash and refound the Lucy’s Warbler NE of the pond about 30 yards in
> a willow marshy area in top of a cottonwood that is greening out. Thanks
> David for a great find. Another birder directed us to this area.
>
> Gregg Goodrich
> Highlands Ranch
>
>
Date: 4/16/18 9:11 am From: 'Egret' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Lucy’s Warbler at Sinton Pond
I saw it on the same tree. It was down below the damn and then moved up to
the tree on the NE corner.I put up a photo on ebird.
On Monday, April 16, 2018 at 10:03:58 AM UTC-6, Gregg Goodrich wrote:
>
> Kevin Ash and refound the Lucy’s Warbler NE of the pond about 30 yards in
> a willow marshy area in top of a cottonwood that is greening out. Thanks
> David for a great find. Another birder directed us to this area.
>
> Gregg Goodrich
> Highlands Ranch
>
>
Date: 4/16/18 9:04 am From: Gregg Goodrich <gregggoodrich...> Subject: [cobirds] Lucy’s Warbler at Sinton Pond
Kevin Ash and refound the Lucy’s Warbler NE of the pond about 30 yards in a
willow marshy area in top of a cottonwood that is greening out. Thanks
David for a great find. Another birder directed us to this area.
Date: 4/16/18 8:07 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Mountain Plover [Weld]
Hi all
I went out to the Pawnee National Grassland for two reasons yesterday-find plovers and experience Weld CR 96. The Keota site is the most reliable for plover of late last 3-4 years--last year had seven here)
- Weld CR 96 .6m west of Weld CR 61 - Mountain Plover - 2 in burn area - Weld CR 96 .4m west of Weld CR 61 - Mountain Plover - 2 (one on each side of road) - Weld CR 100 (1.5m west (on Weld CR 100) of intersection of Weld CR 100/Hwy 390 in Keota) - Mountain Plover - 2
My Weld CR 96 experience ... from Weld CR 57 to Weld CR 61 it was sad to see shotgun shells all over the place at every FS admin use service road as well as trash in the shoulder areas of the road. Along with Baker Draw Recreational Shooting Complex having 6-7 cars there were 4 cars at aforementioned FS admin use road pullouts. East of Weld CR 61 to Hwy 77 did not see any recreational shooters on Weld CR 96 nor any noticeable shotgun shells or trash that I saw west of Weld CR 61.
I'm meeting with Pawnee District Ranger this afternoon for a conversation let you know how that goes.
Date: 4/16/18 6:59 am From: <caid...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: House Sparrows
On Sunday, April 15, 2018 at 8:51:32 AM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > Here are some random thoughts regarding the House Sparrow discussion: > > 1) Birders care about, and are interested in, all birds. > > 2) House Sparrows are unevenly distributed across the landscape, seasons > and time. > > 3) Being somewhat "colonial" they succumb to disease and predation issues > typical of species that occur in numbers in one place and time. > > 4) eBird can be used for more than a source of intel on how to home in on > rare species. > > 5) Birders, at least a subset of us, can't resist sliding down the > slippery slope of statistics. > > 6) House Sparrows are named for a reason and much of the time prefer...... > areas with human houses (*Passer domesticus*). > > 7) When cost and safety (5-10 years from now?) preclude birder travel to > exotic places like Kenya, Costa Rica, and Cottonwood Canyon, we can still > be entertained, learn new things and observe/photograph beauty in our > backyards and personal patches of open space or "wild" habitat. > > > Perhaps the most interesting thing I've ever read about House Sparrows is > their penchant for bringing still smoldering cigarette butts to their nests > as a source of smoke to reduce nest ectoparasites of threat to the birds > and their young. Because they often build their nests within the outer and > inner walls of human structures, this leads to them being a major culprit > in the starting of structural fires (*P. domesticus *subsp. *pyromaniacus*?). > This was reported from metro areas in the East, and I have not heard of it > being observed in Colorado. Maybe birders who know urban fire fighters can > ask if this has been suspected locally. > > > Last Friday my planned trip to the retirement event of a friend in Salida > was stopped still in its tracks by an accident on I-25 near DU. One > quarter of the way to my destination after a lapse of half the time > allotted, I made eggnog out of broken eggs, ate the 2-2-2 breakfast at > Village Inn (over easy with bacon) and went to the Denver Zoo for the day. > Living in a bush mostly within the Steller's Sea-Eagle enclosure is a > little group of House Sparrows which seemed like an interesting > association, especially right below the sign that said, "Watch Out For > Eagle Poop". And I realized for the umpteenth time how handsome the males > of this Old World species really are. > > > > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins > > > Hi Dave,
You're final comment about handsome HOSP reminded me of when I, as a neophyte birder, was out wandering in the cardon cactus near Kino Bay. I had spent probably a good hour observing and drawing a Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, and was still not being totally sure of my ID, and then I stumbled across this incredibly "handsome," Sonoran Desert-residing, sparrow. I thumbed frantically through my Peterson's Field Guide to Western Birds, and the distinctively-marked sparrow right in front of me was NOT in there!! All was eventually resolved, but it took me awhile. Part of my take-away learning experience was that HOSPs hanging out in the alleys of our urban environments are not always as brilliantly plumaged as this breeding season male I encountered in the Sonoran Desert.
May I share a bit more? Then, on my drive back to Prescott, I stopped along the Hassayampa River and was totally befuddled by a beautiful male warbler in breeding plumage. Turned out it was the same species I had been seeing all winter in Prescott, I just had no idea that an Audubon's Warbler could change that dramatically over a few weeks time.
Date: 4/15/18 8:52 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Lucy's Warblers in Eastern CO
The Colorado Springs Lucy's Warbler entertained lots of people today. Great find by David Tonnessen yesterday! This species breeds in southwestern Colorado, though is extremely rare in eastern Colorado in the spring. The two others I've seen was one at Valco Ponds in Pueblo, seen 13-15 April 2003 and Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station, 20 April 2012. I think the only other East slope sightings are from Lamar Community College, Eaton Cemetery, Salida, and an older sighting from Pueblo. Those are the only ones I remember in recent times, am I forgetting any. If you got to see this bird, you should be very excited, even though it is the dullest of all warblers. You likely won't see too many in eastern Colorado!
Date: 4/15/18 5:11 pm From: Kat Bradley-Bennett <katpbennett...> Subject: [cobirds] American Avocets east of Longmont
During a bird survey this morning for the city of Longmont at the Peschel open space, Jamie Simo and I had the pleasure of finding more than 20 American Avocets in different locations along the St. Vrain. One flock of 14 took wing at one point, but came down at our eastern-most count area.
Peschel lies just west of the Sandstone Ranch area. The floods of 2013 resulted in massive habitat changes, including small mud flats and quiet inlets that are being used by migrating ducks and shore birds. The area is not yet open to the public, but when it is, it will be a great opportunity for waterfowl, shore birds, and passerines. I'm just waiting for Sandhill Cranes to put it on their "must visit" stops during migration!
Date: 4/15/18 3:29 pm From: linda hodges <hikerhodges...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Lucy's Warbler El Paso
The Lucy's was seen by 15 or so folks from about 2:30 to 3:00 at Sinton
Pond. It was spotted in the shrubs near the SW end of the pond. Last seen
heading toward the creek.
Many thanks to the unknown photographer who found the bird for us.
Linda Hodges
Colorado Springs
On Sun, Apr 15, 2018, 11:06 AM Brandon <flammowl17...> wrote:
>
> Kara Carragher just sent me a text, saying she and others are looking at
> the Lucy's Warbler. It is North of where the stream outlet crossing the
> concrete hiking trail. It's in the small scrubs 1-2 feet above the
> ground. This is at Sinton Pond Open Space, Colorado Springs, El Paso
> County, Colorado on 15 April 2018.
>
> Brandon K. Percival
> Pueblo West (maybe should be in Colorado Springs instead)
>
>
> On Sun, Apr 15, 2018 at 10:26 AM, David Tønnessen <
> <davidtonnessenx...> wrote:
>
>> Yes, I received word that the warbler was seen again this morning just a
>> little upstream from its original location.
>>
>> David Tonnessen
>> Colorado Springs
>>
>>
>>
>
> --
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> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
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Date: 4/15/18 2:55 pm From: Ken & Christie Pals <mtnpals...> Subject: [cobirds] Anna's Hummingbird - Larimer County
COBirders,
The female Anna's Hummingbird is still at Rachel Hopper's home in Fort Collins. Sean Walter, Christie Pals and I saw it two times, at around 2:10 p.m. and again at 3:00 p.m.
Thank you Rachel for this great find and for your hospitality to let us enjoy the birds, the sun, and the setting at Long Pond.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Mike Fernandez
Observers:
Visitors: Erin Cockroft, a young photographer and bird entusiast, visited the site (from Colorado Springs) for the first time and helped with spotting from 10-11 (MST). She found out about us searching the internet for places to see hawks. Gave her our business card so she can check on our reports and learn more. At the same time, a dozen middle-school aged mountain bikers and adult leader took a lunch break on the platform (didn't ask any questions).
Weather: Nice weather all count today. Slight breeze shifted from north to southeast. A little hazy all day. (WU PWS Solterra)
Raptor Observations: Migrating Raptors: A slow day. Busy early and late. Three species passed close over the ridge at 8:00 MST (Coopers, Swainson's and TUVU). Then it was mostly empty skies rest of the day.
Non-Migrating Raptors: Several kettles of Turkey Vultures most of the afternoon over the area from Flat Ridge to Mt Morrison, but I never saw a single one go north from there beyond West Ridge.
Non-raptor Observations: Herd of 16 mule deer at base of bare slope.
Non Raptors seen or heard: White-throated Swift (n=16), Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay (3), Black-billed Magpie (2), American Crow (2), Mountain Chickadee (15), Brown Creeper (2), Mountain Bluebird (1), Townsend's Solitaire (2), Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) (2), Spotted Towhee (1), Western Meadowlark (1), House Finch (1).
Mountain Chickadees: A series of pairs moved quickly north on the ridge, pausing in the junipers, then continuing, in a group of about 12.
Swifts: Flew over in small groups all day, close to the ridge.
Reported on eBird.
Predictions: Like Mitchell suggested, no point in predictions. Today seemed like ideal conditions, from a personal and land-based species perspective. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Date: 4/15/18 10:06 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Lucy's Warbler El Paso
Kara Carragher just sent me a text, saying she and others are looking at
the Lucy's Warbler. It is North of where the stream outlet crossing the
concrete hiking trail. It's in the small scrubs 1-2 feet above the
ground. This is at Sinton Pond Open Space, Colorado Springs, El Paso
County, Colorado on 15 April 2018.
Brandon K. Percival
Pueblo West (maybe should be in Colorado Springs instead)
On Sun, Apr 15, 2018 at 10:26 AM, David Tønnessen <davidtonnessenx...>
> wrote:
> Yes, I received word that the warbler was seen again this morning just a
> little upstream from its original location.
>
> David Tonnessen
> Colorado Springs
>
>
>
Date: 4/15/18 9:10 am From: linda hodges <hikerhodges...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Lucy's Warbler El Paso
Is anyone seeing the Lucy's Warbler today?
On Sat, Apr 14, 2018, 5:41 PM David Tønnessen <davidtonnessenx...>
wrote:
> I've got a Lucy's Warbler right now here at Sinton Pond on southeast side
> of pond along the creek. El Paso County 4/14/2018.
>
>
> David Tonnessen
> Colorado Springs
>
> --
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> "Colorado Birds" group.
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> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>
Observation start time: 09:15:00 Observation end time: 13:00:00 Total observation time: 3.75 hours
Official Counter: Mitchell Blystone
Observers: Jane Haddock
Visitors: So many! Matt Smith joined us with a Birding and Beers Meetup group which was really fun. At one point there was 10-12 additional excited observers on the hill all hoping to catch a migrater in flight. A very interested and fun group of people for sure. There was a couple hikers and bikers on the trails but not a particularly busy day.
Weather: A beautiful chilly sunny day. Little cloud cover throughout the morning but a persistent southeast to easterly made for a colder day.
Raptor Observations: A very entertaining day with a decent spread of raptor varieties. Multiple Turkey Vultures made their way along the ridge line which was great for some up close observations. Kestrels played along the east slope landing, swooping, hovering, and taking breaks on the telephone lines. Two Peregrines were seen with one migrating and one escorting the visitor out of the valley. Another highlight was a Golden Eagle which came out from the west with 4 accompanying Ravens. They made no progress in any direction other then slowly moving straight up until they vanished into the blue. Activity was spread evenly on the eastern and western sides of the ridge line.
Non-raptor Observations: A Meadowlark was heard (my first of the season) and White-breasted Nuthatches, White-throated swifts, Robins, Mountain Chickadees, Ravens, Scrub Jays, Magpies, and Townsend's Solitaires were all observed.
Predictions: I would imagine it'll be a great day. No predictions really but hoping for some good luck! ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Date: 4/15/18 7:51 am From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] House Sparrows
Here are some random thoughts regarding the House Sparrow discussion:
1) Birders care about, and are interested in, all birds.
2) House Sparrows are unevenly distributed across the landscape, seasons and time.
3) Being somewhat "colonial" they succumb to disease and predation issues typical of species that occur in numbers in one place and time.
4) eBird can be used for more than a source of intel on how to home in on rare species.
5) Birders, at least a subset of us, can't resist sliding down the slippery slope of statistics.
6) House Sparrows are named for a reason and much of the time prefer...... areas with human houses (Passer domesticus).
7) When cost and safety (5-10 years from now?) preclude birder travel to exotic places like Kenya, Costa Rica, and Cottonwood Canyon, we can still be entertained, learn new things and observe/photograph beauty in our backyards and personal patches of open space or "wild" habitat.
Perhaps the most interesting thing I've ever read about House Sparrows is their penchant for bringing still smoldering cigarette butts to their nests as a source of smoke to reduce nest ectoparasites of threat to the birds and their young. Because they often build their nests within the outer and inner walls of human structures, this leads to them being a major culprit in the starting of structural fires (P. domesticus subsp. pyromaniacus?). This was reported from metro areas in the East, and I have not heard of it being observed in Colorado. Maybe birders who know urban fire fighters can ask if this has been suspected locally.
Last Friday my planned trip to the retirement event of a friend in Salida was stopped still in its tracks by an accident on I-25 near DU. One quarter of the way to my destination after a lapse of half the time allotted, I made eggnog out of broken eggs, ate the 2-2-2 breakfast at Village Inn (over easy with bacon) and went to the Denver Zoo for the day. Living in a bush mostly within the Steller's Sea-Eagle enclosure is a little group of House Sparrows which seemed like an interesting association, especially right below the sign that said, "Watch Out For Eagle Poop". And I realized for the umpteenth time how handsome the males of this Old World species really are.
Date: 4/15/18 3:35 am From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
I'm late to this discussion, but here's some more impressions of this bird
in westish Arapahoe Co....
In early-March 2016, I moved to west Centennial (Arapahoe) from the Cap
Hill neighborhood of Denver. Immediately, I was struck by the relative
absence of House Sparrows.
In Denver, they seemed the default small bird around neighborhoods, with
House Finches a close second. This was my impression, at least; I haven’t
looked at checklists to support it, however. At Denver Botanic Gardens,
where I spent most of my birding time, House Sparrows seemed slightly
scarcer and around in small numbers than House Finches.
In Centennial, I was thrilled that, initially, I didn’t see House Sparrows
in my yard. About two weeks after moving in, I saw my first. I see them
sporadically around my yard – though certainly more often than I report
them. But they’re by no means a daily sight.
Around Centennial, I regularly see a flock of House Sparrows at deKoevend
Park, where there’s a particular bush, near a residential feeder, that’s
usually filled with 15-20 House Sparrows. A few are sometimes near the
Goodson Recreation Center and the pedestrian bridge that crosses the Big
Dry Creek behind the Rec Center’s Parking lot. A pair is often at the top
of the hill beyond that pedestrian bridge.
In around 150 trips or so to Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve, I’ve never
seen a House Sparrow. I’m not the only one: there are only two eBird
reports of this bird at the preserve and my understanding is that those
reports are of birds in the residential neighborhood surrounding the
preserve, not the preserve itself.
House Sparrows are around west Centennial. I might get some along the Big
Dry Creek Trail or Willow Springs Open Space. But if I were doing a “big
day” in my home birding circle, I could miss them unless I made a special
trip to that single bush in deKoevend.
More compelling than my impressions, though, is what eBird data says.
Assuming I haven’t made any mistakes in compiling this data (though I may
have…don’t quote me on this), here’s eleven years of eBird data for
Arapahoe County, summarized so as to show the percent of all checklists
that include House Sparrows and the average count of House Sparrows on
those checklists that include the bird. This is 25,000+ checklists worth of
data.
The table shows that, over the past ten years, House Sparrows were reported
most frequently about five years ago. But, when seen, they seemed to show
in higher numbers a decade ago. This year, House Sparrows are reported less
frequently than at any point over the past decade (though perhaps these
numbers increase as spring, summer, and fall birding come on?). And
relatively few are seen when the bird is in fact reported.
Keep this in mind: I just summed and averaged numbers. A more careful
analysis would take into account all sorts of other things – effort,
distance covered, the fact that eBird use has changed dramatically over
time, etc. And this is not nearly as sophisticated an analysis as Doug Eddy
did for Colorado Springs with the CBC data.
HOSP
Percent of Checklists that Include HOSP
Average Count (When Present)
2008
11.2
8.9
2009
15.7
9.2
2010
12.1
7.3
2011
16.4
5.9
2012
15.2
7.2
2013
20.4
6.8
2014
18.7
5.3
2015
16.8
6.2
2016
12.8
5.4
2017
13.2
5.3
2018
8.4
4.9
- Jared Del Rosso
Centennial, CO
On Monday, April 9, 2018 at 11:48:40 AM UTC-6, ouzels wrote:
>
> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a
> unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone?
>
> She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or
> two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else.
> Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows?
>
>
> Hugh Kingery
>
That response seems outrageous to me for several reasons:
- The bird tour was there before the area was used for shooting, as he
points out in his email.
- Birders are not putting the physical safety and lives of other people
at risk, while recreational shooters are. I have also viewed sports
shooters shooting *across* the road on the auto tour. In one instance,
even as our car approached, the sports shooter kept firing across the road
and refused to put his gun down to allow us to safely pass. We stopped and
waited, then gave up and turned around and took a different route. I don't
understand how that can be considered acceptable *anywhere. *They are
begging to have somebody killed.
- Bird nesting grounds cannot simply be relocated to a different road,
so moving a bird auto tour is not actually as straightforward as he makes
it sound.
- The area is supposed to be at least partially devoted to preserving
natural resources such as the ever-decreasing amount of natural prairie,
and so it seems that the numerous threatened and declining bird and
other species using that area for nesting, migration, overwintering, etc.
should have some value and priority when these decisions are being made.
The last time I was on the route (last summer), you could not get out of
hearing range of one sports shooter before you started hearing another.
That kind of widespread, constant use of loud guns can't be helping the
wildlife maintain healthy, normal behaviors and routines.
I recognize that I am biased on this issue as someone with a lifelong love
of birds and nature with no interest in sports shooting, but I do try to
recognize the rights and needs of people with different values than I
have. My dad's entire side of the family in North Dakota engages in sports
shooting and hunting, and I respect their right to do so. However, I think
any of them would be appalled at people taking assault rifles and shooting
across a public road. That is reckless, irresponsible, and dangerous. I
lived by Cherry Creek State Park last year. They have done an excellent
job of arranging a shooting range, a model airport field, a dog park,
campgrounds, a marina, and hiking trails that allow a wide variety of
people to use a densely populated park for many uses without anybody
feeling that they are in danger. Meanwhile, the park supports a variety of
birds and wildlife successfully. Pawnee National Grasslands has a far
greater area with a much lower density of people, so I see no reason that a
similar balance of interests and needs (including those of the wildlife)
should not be possible.
Those are my thoughts at least.
Marie Hoerner, Colorado Springs, El Paso County
On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 3:41 PM, 'The "Nunn Guy"' via Colorado Birds <
<cobirds...> wrote:
> Hi all
>
> The Pawnee Disitrct Ranger responded a bit more today ...
>
> Sorry it’s taken me a couple days to respond to your email. I’ve been out
> of town.
>
>
>
> We went down an extensive public involvement process centered around the
> increased sports shooting uses a couple years back before the rest of the
> forest was experiencing the same pressure and the decision outcome from
> that process was to build the developed shooting range at Baker Draw.
>
>
> Much of the shooting pressure/issues on the other forest districts evolves
> around homes being built in areas historically used for target shooting.
> The grassland does not dovetail into much of those scenarios and we had
> already led the process in developing a shooting range to reduce the number
> of dispersed shooters, so we have not been directly involved with that
> additional forest process. I know for some folks it doesn’t seem like much,
> but in reality, the developed shooting range has greatly reduced the
> numbers of shooters along the roadways. In 2014 everyone who uses the Baker
> Draw facility today, was simply lined up with everyone else along road 96.
>
>
> The idea of establishing large shooting area bans is not really an option
> I have readily available at my level. That really always becomes a
> Washington Office affair along with numerous other state and local partners
> and other interests. National forests and grasslands and most public lands
> aside from national parks are open to hunting and recreational sport
> shooting.
>
>
> I would be more inclined to discuss moving the bird tour route at this
> time than trying to eliminate a large area from hunting and shooting. There
> are numerous places on the grassland that see very little or no pressure
> from hunting and shooting sports.
>
>
> Shooters favor the road 96 area because they are familiar with it and it
> is the first access point to the grassland along highway 14. We now have a
> developed shooting range in that same area, so for shooters, that is the
> area that most of them are familiar with. I realize similar feeling exists
> for the bird tour, and that it was established there before the increased
> popularity of sports shooting, but whether we like it or not , sport
> shooting has increased in popularity as a recreational activity and numbers
> have risen sharply, which prove that point.
>
>
> I believe there are easy access routes to areas with far less shooting
> pressure, having good birding opportunities, so I am more incline to see
> that as a more readily doable fix and discussion right now in order to
> accommodate the desires of all recreational users on the Pawnee National
> Grassland.
>
>
> Stop in and talk with me some more.
>
> Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn
> http://coloradobirder.club/ >
>
> On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote:
>
>> *Birds of note sensed:*
>>
>> After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come
>> together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which
>> everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not
>> the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense
>> their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push
>> hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr.
>> Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees
>> them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n
>> on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line.
>>
>>
>> *Birds of note seen:*
>>
>> Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently
>> reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of
>> 134.
>>
>> Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134
>>
>> Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days
>> in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains).
>>
>> Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse
>> sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown)
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49
>>
>>
>> *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds,
>> just common duck species.
>>
>>
>> *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open,
>> hosts on site):*
>>
>> Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m)
>>
>> Townsend's Solitaire (2)
>>
>> Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western
>> chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the
>> green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week
>> or so ago).
>>
>>
>> *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and
>> killdeer, no swallows.
>>
>>
>> [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's
>> Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the
>> latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they
>> escaped detection.]
>>
>>
>> Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not
>> wanting to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted
>> to nature observation.
>>
>>
>> Dave Leatherman
>>
>> Fort Collins
>>
> --
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Date: 4/14/18 7:19 pm From: Paul Barchilon <shimari6593...> Subject: [cobirds] Marbled Godwit at Boulder Res
Saw a Marbled Godwit at the north western end of the reservoir, where the mudflats have become extensive. I have seen them in California before, otherwise I wouldn't have known what it was.
Date: 4/14/18 3:36 pm From: Eric DeFonso <bay.wren...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Car break-in Riverbend Ponds Larimer Co
About a decade ago I was birding in Fort Collins at Dixon Reservoir when my truck got broken into. Fortunately for me I had little of real value for anyone to steal - they did take my car stereo faceplate, but then more amusingly they rifled through my glovebox and only stole a set of my bird song CDs.
I think the thieves got away with my Stokes Eastern Bird Songs set. So if some guy in a trenchcoat propositions you to buy a hot set of sparrow and warbler songs, at least you'll know where that came from.
------- Eric DeFonso Coal Creek Canyon, Jefferson County, CO (at exactly 8,000' ASL)
Date: 4/14/18 3:16 pm From: Ira Sanders <zroadrunner14...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Car break-in Riverbend Ponds Larimer Co
Bob, Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be much we can do about thugs
breaking into locked vehicles except maybe aftermarket alarms with sirens,
and make sure you leave everything you are not going to carry with you at
home.
Ira Sanders
Golden, CO
On Sat, Apr 14, 2018 at 3:56 PM, Robert Righter <rorighter...>
wrote:
> Hi
>
> A SUV was broken into at the parking lot at River Bend Ponds Natural Area
> east of Fort Collins. The back, side window was busted in and according to
> the lady occupant they got her hand bag, containing wallet, ID money,
> driver license, phone, the works. She had no ID indicating who she was!
>
> Just recently Hugh Kingery reported a break in at Wheat Ridge Greenbelt.
> So there seems to be a trend occurring with break ins at
> recreational-birding area's parking lots.
>
> This happened to me while birding in Moss Landing, California several
> years ago. Apparently not all the surfers on top to the sand dunes were
> looking for the perfect wave, others were looking for more lucrative
> opportunities. Lost new Lieca scope and new fancy tripod, My wife lost her
> hand bag containing two much money, driver’s license binocs— the works
>
> Please be aware when birding of all parking lots.
>
> Bob Righter
> Denver CO
>
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Colorado Birds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
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> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<6CCA8468-4296-4D06-A9F1-21DD04C86A2D...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>
--
Ira Sanders
Golden, CO
"My mind is a raging torrent flooded with rivulets of thought cascading
into a waterfall of creative alternatives."
On Friday, April 13, 2018 at 6:54:37 AM UTC-6, <robyn......> wrote: > > Hi there, I will be visiting Colorado from Australia in early May to early > June & will be based in Colorado Springs. I believe I may be able to find > the Mountain Plover in the Karval area. Is there anyone out there who could > lead me to a 'specific' area (town, road, etc) where I might find them > please? > > During the month I will be doing some road travelling in Colorado & > perhaps into Wyoming & Utah. I also would like to see the Upland Sandpiper. > Would welcome some help there too. I have been told that the Uplands is > sometimes seen on private ranches. > > Regards, > > Maarten & Robyn.
Date: 4/14/18 2:56 pm From: Robert Righter <rorighter...> Subject: [cobirds] Car break-in Riverbend Ponds Larimer Co
Hi
A SUV was broken into at the parking lot at River Bend Ponds Natural Area east of Fort Collins. The back, side window was busted in and according to the lady occupant they got her hand bag, containing wallet, ID money, driver license, phone, the works. She had no ID indicating who she was!
Just recently Hugh Kingery reported a break in at Wheat Ridge Greenbelt. So there seems to be a trend occurring with break ins at recreational-birding area's parking lots.
This happened to me while birding in Moss Landing, California several years ago. Apparently not all the surfers on top to the sand dunes were looking for the perfect wave, others were looking for more lucrative opportunities. Lost new Lieca scope and new fancy tripod, My wife lost her hand bag containing two much money, driver’s license binocs— the works
Date: 4/14/18 1:21 pm From: Carl Bendorf <carlbendorf...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Joe Roller's Jacket/Larimer-YES!
By my calculation, this may be the 4th state record of Joe Roller leaving
his jacket at a stake-out! ;-)
Carl Bendorf
Longmont
On Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 7:20:32 AM UTC-6, <r-ho......> wrote:
>
> Joe Roller left his jacket here when visiting with the DFO group. If
> anyone coming by to see the Anna’s is planning on going to the CFO
> convention or will be seeing Joe, please pick his jacket up from the front
> porch of the house in order to return it to him.
>
> Thanks!
>
> -----------------------
> Rachel Hopper
> Ft. Collins. CO
> <r-ho......> <javascript:>
>
>
>
>
Date: 4/14/18 6:20 am From: Rachel <r-hopper...> Subject: [cobirds] Joe Roller's Jacket/Larimer-YES!
Joe Roller left his jacket here when visiting with the DFO group. If anyone coming by to see the Anna’s is planning on going to the CFO convention or will be seeing Joe, please pick his jacket up from the front porch of the house in order to return it to him.
Thanks!
-----------------------
Rachel Hopper
Ft. Collins. CO
<r-hopper...>
Date: 4/14/18 5:26 am From: Frank Farrell <farrell7690...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Anna's Hummingbird YES, Boulder County
I'd like to also thank Alison Sheets for the gracious opening of her yard to many birders including myself to see a special bird species and to be able to meet new and interesting birders and to also see some familiar faces. She's a value to the birding community! (Was there in the morning and also a return visit around 4 pm).
Frank Farrell Morrison, Jefferson County, CO
On Friday, April 13, 2018 at 4:52:57 PM UTC-6, Eric DeFonso wrote: > > Hi folks, > > The Anna's in Eldorado Canyon - the male - continues to be seen by a > number of birders as of around 4pm today. I know there were several > successful sightings from this morning, but the bird seemed to go AWOL for > maybe about 5 hours until reappearing this afternoon. > > Thanks to Alison Sheets for graciously allowing all of us to occupy her > beautifully landscaped backyard with so many great foothills species of > birds to keep us interested while the star of the show was out doing > errands. > > ------- > Eric DeFonso > Coal Creek Canyon, Jefferson County, CO (at exactly 8,000' ASL) >
Date: 4/13/18 7:47 pm From: <wwillem...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: What CBC data can tell us about House Sparrows in Colorado Springs
Is it possible to disaggregate the data to see if the variations over time occurred across the board or were attributable to some places more than others?
Willem van Vliet-- Boulder
On Friday, April 13, 2018 at 12:52:32 PM UTC-6, <doug......> wrote: > > Hi all, > > First off, hi! I'm brand new to this list. As dumb luck would have it, the > first post I ever received was yesterday from Diana Beatty. She had the > wonderful idea to do a linear regression on Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data > from Colorado Springs to see if there has been a decline in House Sparrow > population size since 1950. Due to my burgeoning interest in House Sparrows > as a graduate student, I asked her if she had any more details. In > response, she sent the raw data for me to have a look at. A big thanks to > her for sending that along! > > Diana's analysis was of course correct: that is, that when looking from > 1950-2017, there has been no overall trend toward decline. However, my eyes > wouldn't stop perceiving little peaks and dips in the cloud of data points. > So I split the data up and found that there have been 3 cycles of > statistically significant growth and decline since 1950. We're currently in > the middle of a decline that began in 2001. > > It's no surprise that there have been fluctuations in the 67 years of CBC > data that we have. All wild populations fluctuate. The interesting part is > telling a story as to why they fluctuate. Often, growth and decline cycles > have something to do with climatic patterns, possibly interacting with > things like competition and selection. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that I > have the expertise to attempt any associations with climate or other > factors right now. But it's likely there's something of interest going on, > even if we don't know what it is! > > I'm attaching a visual representation of the CBC data to this post. I > color-coded each of the cycles. The x-axis shows passage of time with the > far left side being 1950 and the far right being 2017. On the y-axis is the > CBC count data, with lower values on the bottom and higher counts up > higher. Note that the red dots, spanning the years 1950-1984, represent the > longest and slowest decline. The last 2 declines (the second of which we're > currently in right now) occurred on much smaller time scales, from > 1985-2000 (black dots) and from 2001-present (blue dots). The lowest ever > count in the entire data set was in 2016 with only 177 House Sparrows > reported. > > While it's likely that a population ecologist could point out several ways > I've poorly described these patterns, I think it's cool that Diana began > all this with an analysis of publicly-accessible data and shared it on a > bird listserv. Thanks a lot to all of you for reading this, and I'd love to > continue the conversation if anyone is interested! > > Good birding, > Doug Eddy, Laramie, WY > > > <https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4ZLspoVpXs/WtDp4O0kJaI/AAAAAAAAEHs/uDW1KB6HAxM4nTqWldzLFY3x87o-QtHxgCLcBGAs/s1600/HOSP%2BCBC%2BCol%2BSprings.png> > > >
The Anna’s visited the feeder today at noon. After watching for about 10 min. it appeared and sipped nectar for upwards of 4min. Beautiful! Thanks Rachel for sharing your find! ☺️
> Today in our Franktown yard we had a Brown-headed Cowbird and a Broad- tailed Hummingbird. Then I headed over to the Cherry Creek Trail that starts at the Walker Road pit. 5 American Avocets there with lots of ducks and a handsome Bald Eagle. South on the trail at the 86 bridge I found 2 Eastern Phoebes! We’ve seen a singing male there for the last 2 years. Yesterday I found 2 Yellow-rumpled Warblers (white throats, so Myrtle race) at the edge of our pond. Birds are moving in.
>
>
>
> Sent from my iPad
Date: 4/13/18 3:53 pm From: Eric DeFonso <bay.wren...> Subject: [cobirds] Anna's Hummingbird YES, Boulder County
Hi folks,
The Anna's in Eldorado Canyon - the male - continues to be seen by a number of birders as of around 4pm today. I know there were several successful sightings from this morning, but the bird seemed to go AWOL for maybe about 5 hours until reappearing this afternoon.
Thanks to Alison Sheets for graciously allowing all of us to occupy her beautifully landscaped backyard with so many great foothills species of birds to keep us interested while the star of the show was out doing errands.
------- Eric DeFonso Coal Creek Canyon, Jefferson County, CO (at exactly 8,000' ASL)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 14:00:00 Total observation time: 5 hours
Official Counter: Debbie James
Observers:
Visitors: Hardly any people on the trail today because the weather was so bad. A lady and man stopped by in the last hour and asked what I'd seen. Evidently years ago they had made a hike with Colorado Mnt. Club, stopped at the station and got to see Swainson's Hawks migrate. Wonder where they are this year????
Weather: The Ridge and surrounding area got none of the snow that Central Denver did. It was dry, windy, cold and humidity made it bone-chilling today. The sky was 100% overcast, 100% of the time.
Raptor Observations: I had 3 Turkey Vultures and 1 Red Tail migrate as I was hiking up the Ridge---glad I was there a little early. All of the activity was on the west side of the Ridge, with migrators flying into stiff headwinds. The last migrator of the day was a Turkey Vulture who had a heck of a time of it, but after working the air for quite sometime, finally made it across I-70 and on out of sight north. Locals: 2 Red Tail Hawks; 8 Turkey Vultures; 1 Cooper's Hawk.
Non-raptor Observations: Other species seen or heard: 4 Black-billed Magpie; 2 Woodhouse's Scrub Jay; 5 Townsend Solitaire; 2 Common Raven; and 5 swallow species that swooped by very fast.
Predictions: Tomorrow's weather looks similar to today's, so maybe about the same as far as migration is concerned. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Date: 4/13/18 2:41 pm From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
The Pawnee Disitrct Ranger responded a bit more today ...
Sorry it’s taken me a couple days to respond to your email. I’ve been out
of town.
We went down an extensive public involvement process centered around the
increased sports shooting uses a couple years back before the rest of the
forest was experiencing the same pressure and the decision outcome from
that process was to build the developed shooting range at Baker Draw.
Much of the shooting pressure/issues on the other forest districts evolves
around homes being built in areas historically used for target shooting.
The grassland does not dovetail into much of those scenarios and we had
already led the process in developing a shooting range to reduce the number
of dispersed shooters, so we have not been directly involved with that
additional forest process. I know for some folks it doesn’t seem like much,
but in reality, the developed shooting range has greatly reduced the
numbers of shooters along the roadways. In 2014 everyone who uses the Baker
Draw facility today, was simply lined up with everyone else along road 96.
The idea of establishing large shooting area bans is not really an option I
have readily available at my level. That really always becomes a Washington
Office affair along with numerous other state and local partners and other
interests. National forests and grasslands and most public lands aside from
national parks are open to hunting and recreational sport shooting.
I would be more inclined to discuss moving the bird tour route at this time
than trying to eliminate a large area from hunting and shooting. There are
numerous places on the grassland that see very little or no pressure from
hunting and shooting sports.
Shooters favor the road 96 area because they are familiar with it and it is
the first access point to the grassland along highway 14. We now have a
developed shooting range in that same area, so for shooters, that is the
area that most of them are familiar with. I realize similar feeling exists
for the bird tour, and that it was established there before the increased
popularity of sports shooting, but whether we like it or not , sport
shooting has increased in popularity as a recreational activity and numbers
have risen sharply, which prove that point.
I believe there are easy access routes to areas with far less shooting
pressure, having good birding opportunities, so I am more incline to see
that as a more readily doable fix and discussion right now in order to
accommodate the desires of all recreational users on the Pawnee National
Grassland.
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote:
>
> *Birds of note sensed:*
>
> After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come
> together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which
> everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not
> the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense
> their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push
> hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr.
> Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees
> them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n
> on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line.
>
>
> *Birds of note seen:*
>
> Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently
> reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of
> 134.
>
> Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134
>
> Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days
> in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains).
>
> Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125
>
>
>
>
>
> Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse
> sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown)
>
>
>
>
> Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49
>
>
> *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds,
> just common duck species.
>
>
> *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open,
> hosts on site):*
>
> Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m)
>
> Townsend's Solitaire (2)
>
> Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western
> chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the
> green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week
> or so ago).
>
>
> *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and
> killdeer, no swallows.
>
>
> [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's
> Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the
> latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they
> escaped detection.]
>
>
> Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting
> to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to
> nature observation.
>
>
> Dave Leatherman
>
> Fort Collins
>
Date: 4/13/18 1:56 pm From: Joe Roller <jroller9...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] What CBC data can tell us about House Sparrows in Colorado Springs
I'm mostly interested in number of individuals divided by total party hours for the count. Joe
On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 2:15 PM, Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> wrote:
> While I do think participation count and participation man hours matter, > it only goes so far. For example, having 2 people in an area report 10 > birds does not mean that 4 people should have found 20 birds - either group > might do equally well at finding the same birds present. The ability of the > participants and how exactly they cover their assigned area also matter but > there is little to no accounting for that in the data. It is a complicated > nut. That 1476 year is an apparent outlier from the rest of the data set, > although i did not calculate if it actually meets the mathematical > definition at this point. You can see in your graph it is quite far from > the rest of the data and something interesting may have been going on that > year worth exploring but that year may not be a particularly good data > point for discovering trends. I don't think one CBC data set is going to > be enough to say with much certainty if there is a real population thing > going on, but it is intriguing to examine the data anyway. > > Here's hoping our CBC participation continues that trend. :) > > Thanks, > Diana Beatty > > > > On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 1:54 PM, Douglas Eddy <douglitas...> wrote: > >> Hi again, >> >> After beginning some attempts at correcting for effort (thanks for >> pointing that out, Joe Roller!), I'm still playing with different ways to >> quantify things. I can share two possible points of interest: >> >> --Diana's suggestion that the 2016 count may have been low due to poor >> weather and thus participation doesn't seem to be reflected in the data; >> the effort for 2016 was much higher than in 1953 (for example), when only >> half the number of people recorded the highest count in the Colorado >> Springs dataset, 1476 birds! There were many years with less effort and >> more birds, which leads me to believe the low count in 2016 might very well >> reflect a real population thing going on. >> >> --I did a very simple regression of number of participants vs. year. As >> you can imagine, participation goes up over time. But it's the rate that's >> the fun part: The Colorado Springs CBC adds almost exactly 1 person every >> year! >> >> Cheers, birds, and amateur data analysis, >> Doug, Laramie, WY >> >> On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 1:00 PM, Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> >> wrote: >> >>> 2016's low count is likely a product of the weather that day - we had a >>> blizzard with temps around 0 degrees Fahrenheit - some areas of the circle >>> may not have had the usual level of participation due to that weather, as >>> well. In reading all these posts a few questions that occurred to me were >>> 1. Is there a successional change in habitat at some of these feeders where >>> people are now reporting lower numbers that could be at play? Newer >>> housing developments tend to have slightly different habitat than more >>> established ones, for example. 2. Is there any relationship between the >>> success of EUDO in traditional House Sparrow habitat and House Sparrow >>> population fluctuations? Incidentally, I have not noticed decline in the >>> Security/Widefield/Fountain area but I haven't been keeping close data, >>> either. >>> >>> Diana Beatty >>> >>> >>> >>> On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 11:34 AM, <douglitas...> wrote: >>> >>>> Hi all, >>>> >>>> First off, hi! I'm brand new to this list. As dumb luck would have it, >>>> the first post I ever received was yesterday from Diana Beatty. She had the >>>> wonderful idea to do a linear regression on Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data >>>> from Colorado Springs to see if there has been a decline in House Sparrow >>>> population size since 1950. Due to my burgeoning interest in House Sparrows >>>> as a graduate student, I asked her if she had any more details. In >>>> response, she sent the raw data for me to have a look at. A big thanks to >>>> her for sending that along! >>>> >>>> Diana's analysis was of course correct: that is, that when looking from >>>> 1950-2017, there has been no overall trend toward decline. However, my eyes >>>> wouldn't stop perceiving little peaks and dips in the cloud of data points. >>>> So I split the data up and found that there have been 3 cycles of >>>> statistically significant growth and decline since 1950. We're currently in >>>> the middle of a decline that began in 2001. >>>> >>>> It's no surprise that there have been fluctuations in the 67 years of >>>> CBC data that we have. All wild populations fluctuate. The interesting part >>>> is telling a story as to why they fluctuate. Often, growth and decline >>>> cycles have something to do with climatic patterns, possibly interacting >>>> with things like competition and selection. Unfortunately, I'm not sure >>>> that I have the expertise to attempt any associations with climate or other >>>> factors right now. But it's likely there's something of interest going on, >>>> even if we don't know what it is! >>>> >>>> I'm attaching a visual representation of the CBC data to this post. I >>>> color-coded each of the cycles. The x-axis shows passage of time with the >>>> far left side being 1950 and the far right being 2017. On the y-axis is the >>>> CBC count data, with lower values on the bottom and higher counts up >>>> higher. Note that the red dots, spanning the years 1950-1984, represent the >>>> longest and slowest decline. The last 2 declines (the second of which we're >>>> currently in right now) occurred on much smaller time scales, from >>>> 1985-2000 (black dots) and from 2001-present (blue dots). The lowest ever >>>> count in the entire data set was in 2016 with only 177 House Sparrows >>>> reported. >>>> >>>> While it's likely that a population ecologist could point out several >>>> ways I've poorly described these patterns, I think it's cool that Diana >>>> began all this with an analysis of publicly-accessible data and shared it >>>> on a bird listserv. Thanks a lot to all of you for reading this, and I'd >>>> love to continue the conversation if anyone is interested! >>>> >>>> Good birding, >>>> Doug Eddy, Laramie, WY >>>> >>>> >>>> <https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4ZLspoVpXs/WtDp4O0kJaI/AAAAAAAAEHs/uDW1KB6HAxM4nTqWldzLFY3x87o-QtHxgCLcBGAs/s1600/HOSP%2BCBC%2BCol%2BSprings.png> >>>> >>>> >>>> -- >>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google >>>> Groups "Colorado Birds" group. >>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send >>>> an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> >>>> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> >>>> To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ms >>>> gid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...> >>>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>>> . >>>> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >>>> >>> >>> >>> >>> -- >>> >>> ****** >>> >>> All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; >>> the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the >>> frost. >>> >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> -- >> Doug Eddy >> PhD student, Carling Lab >> Program in Ecology (PiE) >> Department of Zoology & Physiology >> University of Wyoming >> www.carlinglab.com >> >> > > > -- > > ****** > > All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the > old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost. > > > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/CAM-_j9v3UhXKBR%2BcJU3iMCE40BaX8mpF0hguG36YszY > <HbKN8wA...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAM-_j9v3UhXKBR%<2BcJU3iMCE40BaX8mpF0hguG36YszYHbKN8wA...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
Date: 4/13/18 1:44 pm From: 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] BBS routes need observers
We still have eleven vacant Breeding Bird Survey ("BBS") routes of the 132 in Colorado. We invite - and urge -qualified observers to participate in the Breeding Bird Survey “BBS.”Participants must have the skills to identify the likely species on theirroutes by sight and by sound.
A BBS routecovers 24.5 miles. Observers record all the birds they hear and see during a3-minute stop, then drive a half-mile to the next stop. You run the route, onceonly, during the peak of the songbird singing season, from May 25 on the plainsto July 15 in the high country. The ability to identify species by sound iscrucial--I record 75-85% of the birds on my routes by sound, not sight.
Theobserver should have the ability to identify, by sound and sight, most of the species likely to occur along thatroute. On my routes, I identify over 75% of the birds by sound, without everseeing them. We seek a commitment ofthree years, because the BBS prefers route data run by the same person forat least 3 years.
Let me knowif you would like one or more. The following list ois organized geographically(sort of) with a short description of the route.
Thefollowing lists the available routes; I can send more detailed descriptions toyou if you’d like to consider one but want more information. I know it’s old–fashioned, but I use the DeLorme (printed on paper) Atlas to locate routes.
Hugh Kingery
East Central
17313 Flagler Washington, Kit Carson, & Lincoln p 97
Starts15 miles SE of Anton at Wash CR 4; South on CR NN and KC Rds 7, 6, & 5through Flagler to end.
Southeast
17028 Two Buttes Prowers & Baca p103
Startat intersection of CR 26 & CR D; east on CR D 9 miles; S on Colo 89 to end.
17328 Pritchett Baca p 101
Start12 miles S of Pritchett on CR 12; go E one mile, then N on Roads 13 and 12 toend.
17327 Timpas Otero p100
Starts15 miles west of LaJunta. From Colo. 10, go south on GR 14 for 9 miles, east onGR 11 5.5 miles to Timpas, south 2 miles, east one mile, then south on GR 18 toend.
17220 Haswell Bent, Kiowa p 99
Start6 miles N of Las Animas; N 7 miles on CR 10; swing around SE edge of Adobe CrRes. SWA, then N 4 miles on Road 17; E on Road E 2 miles; N 5 miles on Road 19,E 1 mile on Road K, then N on Road 20 to end.
17321 Sheridan Lake Prowers, Kiowa p 103
Starton Prowers Co. Rd 30 at Rd VV; north on VV to Kiowa CR W; then east on W toend.
South Central
17056 Trinchera Las Animas p. 102,93
Startin Trinchera; westerly on CR 2.2 and 22.0 & 24.6 roads to end.
17226 Cokedale Las Animas p 93
Starts20 miles west of Trinidad, a mile south of Trinidad Lake; Go westerly on CF53.1 and 18.3; northwesterly on CR 53.5 through Spanish Peaks WA and 41.1; thennortheasterly on CF 41.7 & 42; then NWly on CR 46 to end.
San Luis Valley and Southwest
17055 Alamosa Conejos, Alamosa p91-90
Starts12 miles E of Manassa on CO 142; North on CR 28to CR Z; west on CR Z to CR 24;N on CR 24 (Alamosa CR S-112 to end.
17422 Cortez Montezuma pp75, 85
Start6 miles N of Dolores on Colo. 526; south on 526 to Colo 104; South on 104 &CR 30 & 29 to US 160; skip 2 miles,then south on CR 27, west on CR H, south on CR 23 to end.
Northwest mtns.
17202 Dunckley Pass Rio Blanco p26, 25
Starts 5 miles SW of Oak Creek; Start atintersection of Routt CRds 132 & 25. Go W on CR 132 (becomes FR 16);continue on Rd 16 (becomes Rio Blanco CR 8) over Dunckley Pass and Ripple CreekPass to end.
--
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To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...>
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Date: 4/13/18 1:35 pm From: Douglas Eddy <douglitas...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] What CBC data can tell us about House Sparrows in Colorado Springs
Hi again,
After beginning some attempts at correcting for effort (thanks for pointing that out, Joe Roller!), I'm still playing with different ways to quantify things. I can share two possible points of interest:
--Diana's suggestion that the 2016 count may have been low due to poor weather and thus participation doesn't seem to be reflected in the data; the effort for 2016 was much higher than in 1953 (for example), when only half the number of people recorded the highest count in the Colorado Springs dataset, 1476 birds! There were many years with less effort and more birds, which leads me to believe the low count in 2016 might very well reflect a real population thing going on.
--I did a very simple regression of number of participants vs. year. As you can imagine, participation goes up over time. But it's the rate that's the fun part: The Colorado Springs CBC adds almost exactly 1 person every year!
Cheers, birds, and amateur data analysis, Doug, Laramie, WY
On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 1:00 PM, Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> wrote:
> 2016's low count is likely a product of the weather that day - we had a > blizzard with temps around 0 degrees Fahrenheit - some areas of the circle > may not have had the usual level of participation due to that weather, as > well. In reading all these posts a few questions that occurred to me were > 1. Is there a successional change in habitat at some of these feeders where > people are now reporting lower numbers that could be at play? Newer > housing developments tend to have slightly different habitat than more > established ones, for example. 2. Is there any relationship between the > success of EUDO in traditional House Sparrow habitat and House Sparrow > population fluctuations? Incidentally, I have not noticed decline in the > Security/Widefield/Fountain area but I haven't been keeping close data, > either. > > Diana Beatty > > > > On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 11:34 AM, <douglitas...> wrote: > >> Hi all, >> >> First off, hi! I'm brand new to this list. As dumb luck would have it, >> the first post I ever received was yesterday from Diana Beatty. She had the >> wonderful idea to do a linear regression on Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data >> from Colorado Springs to see if there has been a decline in House Sparrow >> population size since 1950. Due to my burgeoning interest in House Sparrows >> as a graduate student, I asked her if she had any more details. In >> response, she sent the raw data for me to have a look at. A big thanks to >> her for sending that along! >> >> Diana's analysis was of course correct: that is, that when looking from >> 1950-2017, there has been no overall trend toward decline. However, my eyes >> wouldn't stop perceiving little peaks and dips in the cloud of data points. >> So I split the data up and found that there have been 3 cycles of >> statistically significant growth and decline since 1950. We're currently in >> the middle of a decline that began in 2001. >> >> It's no surprise that there have been fluctuations in the 67 years of CBC >> data that we have. All wild populations fluctuate. The interesting part is >> telling a story as to why they fluctuate. Often, growth and decline cycles >> have something to do with climatic patterns, possibly interacting with >> things like competition and selection. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that I >> have the expertise to attempt any associations with climate or other >> factors right now. But it's likely there's something of interest going on, >> even if we don't know what it is! >> >> I'm attaching a visual representation of the CBC data to this post. I >> color-coded each of the cycles. The x-axis shows passage of time with the >> far left side being 1950 and the far right being 2017. On the y-axis is the >> CBC count data, with lower values on the bottom and higher counts up >> higher. Note that the red dots, spanning the years 1950-1984, represent the >> longest and slowest decline. The last 2 declines (the second of which we're >> currently in right now) occurred on much smaller time scales, from >> 1985-2000 (black dots) and from 2001-present (blue dots). The lowest ever >> count in the entire data set was in 2016 with only 177 House Sparrows >> reported. >> >> While it's likely that a population ecologist could point out several >> ways I've poorly described these patterns, I think it's cool that Diana >> began all this with an analysis of publicly-accessible data and shared it >> on a bird listserv. Thanks a lot to all of you for reading this, and I'd >> love to continue the conversation if anyone is interested! >> >> Good birding, >> Doug Eddy, Laramie, WY >> >> >> <https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4ZLspoVpXs/WtDp4O0kJaI/AAAAAAAAEHs/uDW1KB6HAxM4nTqWldzLFY3x87o-QtHxgCLcBGAs/s1600/HOSP%2BCBC%2BCol%2BSprings.png> >> >> >> -- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups >> "Colorado Birds" group. >> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an >> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> >> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> >> To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ms >> gid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> . >> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >> > > > > -- > > ****** > > All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the > old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost. > > > >
-- Doug Eddy PhD student, Carling Lab Program in Ecology (PiE) Department of Zoology & Physiology University of Wyoming www.carlinglab.com
Date: 4/13/18 1:16 pm From: Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] What CBC data can tell us about House Sparrows in Colorado Springs
While I do think participation count and participation man hours matter, it only goes so far. For example, having 2 people in an area report 10 birds does not mean that 4 people should have found 20 birds - either group might do equally well at finding the same birds present. The ability of the participants and how exactly they cover their assigned area also matter but there is little to no accounting for that in the data. It is a complicated nut. That 1476 year is an apparent outlier from the rest of the data set, although i did not calculate if it actually meets the mathematical definition at this point. You can see in your graph it is quite far from the rest of the data and something interesting may have been going on that year worth exploring but that year may not be a particularly good data point for discovering trends. I don't think one CBC data set is going to be enough to say with much certainty if there is a real population thing going on, but it is intriguing to examine the data anyway.
Here's hoping our CBC participation continues that trend. :)
Thanks, Diana Beatty
On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 1:54 PM, Douglas Eddy <douglitas...> wrote:
> Hi again, > > After beginning some attempts at correcting for effort (thanks for > pointing that out, Joe Roller!), I'm still playing with different ways to > quantify things. I can share two possible points of interest: > > --Diana's suggestion that the 2016 count may have been low due to poor > weather and thus participation doesn't seem to be reflected in the data; > the effort for 2016 was much higher than in 1953 (for example), when only > half the number of people recorded the highest count in the Colorado > Springs dataset, 1476 birds! There were many years with less effort and > more birds, which leads me to believe the low count in 2016 might very well > reflect a real population thing going on. > > --I did a very simple regression of number of participants vs. year. As > you can imagine, participation goes up over time. But it's the rate that's > the fun part: The Colorado Springs CBC adds almost exactly 1 person every > year! > > Cheers, birds, and amateur data analysis, > Doug, Laramie, WY > > On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 1:00 PM, Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> > wrote: > >> 2016's low count is likely a product of the weather that day - we had a >> blizzard with temps around 0 degrees Fahrenheit - some areas of the circle >> may not have had the usual level of participation due to that weather, as >> well. In reading all these posts a few questions that occurred to me were >> 1. Is there a successional change in habitat at some of these feeders where >> people are now reporting lower numbers that could be at play? Newer >> housing developments tend to have slightly different habitat than more >> established ones, for example. 2. Is there any relationship between the >> success of EUDO in traditional House Sparrow habitat and House Sparrow >> population fluctuations? Incidentally, I have not noticed decline in the >> Security/Widefield/Fountain area but I haven't been keeping close data, >> either. >> >> Diana Beatty >> >> >> >> On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 11:34 AM, <douglitas...> wrote: >> >>> Hi all, >>> >>> First off, hi! I'm brand new to this list. As dumb luck would have it, >>> the first post I ever received was yesterday from Diana Beatty. She had the >>> wonderful idea to do a linear regression on Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data >>> from Colorado Springs to see if there has been a decline in House Sparrow >>> population size since 1950. Due to my burgeoning interest in House Sparrows >>> as a graduate student, I asked her if she had any more details. In >>> response, she sent the raw data for me to have a look at. A big thanks to >>> her for sending that along! >>> >>> Diana's analysis was of course correct: that is, that when looking from >>> 1950-2017, there has been no overall trend toward decline. However, my eyes >>> wouldn't stop perceiving little peaks and dips in the cloud of data points. >>> So I split the data up and found that there have been 3 cycles of >>> statistically significant growth and decline since 1950. We're currently in >>> the middle of a decline that began in 2001. >>> >>> It's no surprise that there have been fluctuations in the 67 years of >>> CBC data that we have. All wild populations fluctuate. The interesting part >>> is telling a story as to why they fluctuate. Often, growth and decline >>> cycles have something to do with climatic patterns, possibly interacting >>> with things like competition and selection. Unfortunately, I'm not sure >>> that I have the expertise to attempt any associations with climate or other >>> factors right now. But it's likely there's something of interest going on, >>> even if we don't know what it is! >>> >>> I'm attaching a visual representation of the CBC data to this post. I >>> color-coded each of the cycles. The x-axis shows passage of time with the >>> far left side being 1950 and the far right being 2017. On the y-axis is the >>> CBC count data, with lower values on the bottom and higher counts up >>> higher. Note that the red dots, spanning the years 1950-1984, represent the >>> longest and slowest decline. The last 2 declines (the second of which we're >>> currently in right now) occurred on much smaller time scales, from >>> 1985-2000 (black dots) and from 2001-present (blue dots). The lowest ever >>> count in the entire data set was in 2016 with only 177 House Sparrows >>> reported. >>> >>> While it's likely that a population ecologist could point out several >>> ways I've poorly described these patterns, I think it's cool that Diana >>> began all this with an analysis of publicly-accessible data and shared it >>> on a bird listserv. Thanks a lot to all of you for reading this, and I'd >>> love to continue the conversation if anyone is interested! >>> >>> Good birding, >>> Doug Eddy, Laramie, WY >>> >>> >>> <https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4ZLspoVpXs/WtDp4O0kJaI/AAAAAAAAEHs/uDW1KB6HAxM4nTqWldzLFY3x87o-QtHxgCLcBGAs/s1600/HOSP%2BCBC%2BCol%2BSprings.png> >>> >>> >>> -- >>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google >>> Groups "Colorado Birds" group. >>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send >>> an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> >>> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> >>> To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ms >>> gid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> . >>> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >>> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> ****** >> >> All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the >> old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost. >> >> >> >> > > > -- > Doug Eddy > PhD student, Carling Lab > Program in Ecology (PiE) > Department of Zoology & Physiology > University of Wyoming > www.carlinglab.com > >
--
******
All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost.
Date: 4/13/18 12:00 pm From: Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] What CBC data can tell us about House Sparrows in Colorado Springs
2016's low count is likely a product of the weather that day - we had a blizzard with temps around 0 degrees Fahrenheit - some areas of the circle may not have had the usual level of participation due to that weather, as well. In reading all these posts a few questions that occurred to me were 1. Is there a successional change in habitat at some of these feeders where people are now reporting lower numbers that could be at play? Newer housing developments tend to have slightly different habitat than more established ones, for example. 2. Is there any relationship between the success of EUDO in traditional House Sparrow habitat and House Sparrow population fluctuations? Incidentally, I have not noticed decline in the Security/Widefield/Fountain area but I haven't been keeping close data, either.
Diana Beatty
On Fri, Apr 13, 2018 at 11:34 AM, <douglitas...> wrote:
> Hi all, > > First off, hi! I'm brand new to this list. As dumb luck would have it, the > first post I ever received was yesterday from Diana Beatty. She had the > wonderful idea to do a linear regression on Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data > from Colorado Springs to see if there has been a decline in House Sparrow > population size since 1950. Due to my burgeoning interest in House Sparrows > as a graduate student, I asked her if she had any more details. In > response, she sent the raw data for me to have a look at. A big thanks to > her for sending that along! > > Diana's analysis was of course correct: that is, that when looking from > 1950-2017, there has been no overall trend toward decline. However, my eyes > wouldn't stop perceiving little peaks and dips in the cloud of data points. > So I split the data up and found that there have been 3 cycles of > statistically significant growth and decline since 1950. We're currently in > the middle of a decline that began in 2001. > > It's no surprise that there have been fluctuations in the 67 years of CBC > data that we have. All wild populations fluctuate. The interesting part is > telling a story as to why they fluctuate. Often, growth and decline cycles > have something to do with climatic patterns, possibly interacting with > things like competition and selection. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that I > have the expertise to attempt any associations with climate or other > factors right now. But it's likely there's something of interest going on, > even if we don't know what it is! > > I'm attaching a visual representation of the CBC data to this post. I > color-coded each of the cycles. The x-axis shows passage of time with the > far left side being 1950 and the far right being 2017. On the y-axis is the > CBC count data, with lower values on the bottom and higher counts up > higher. Note that the red dots, spanning the years 1950-1984, represent the > longest and slowest decline. The last 2 declines (the second of which we're > currently in right now) occurred on much smaller time scales, from > 1985-2000 (black dots) and from 2001-present (blue dots). The lowest ever > count in the entire data set was in 2016 with only 177 House Sparrows > reported. > > While it's likely that a population ecologist could point out several ways > I've poorly described these patterns, I think it's cool that Diana began > all this with an analysis of publicly-accessible data and shared it on a > bird listserv. Thanks a lot to all of you for reading this, and I'd love to > continue the conversation if anyone is interested! > > Good birding, > Doug Eddy, Laramie, WY > > > <https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W4ZLspoVpXs/WtDp4O0kJaI/AAAAAAAAEHs/uDW1KB6HAxM4nTqWldzLFY3x87o-QtHxgCLcBGAs/s1600/HOSP%2BCBC%2BCol%2BSprings.png> > > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<7a82d6bf-457f-4222-9b0f-721b2a2d358e...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
--
******
All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost.
Date: 4/13/18 11:52 am From: <douglitas...> Subject: [cobirds] What CBC data can tell us about House Sparrows in Colorado Springs
Hi all,
First off, hi! I'm brand new to this list. As dumb luck would have it, the first post I ever received was yesterday from Diana Beatty. She had the wonderful idea to do a linear regression on Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data from Colorado Springs to see if there has been a decline in House Sparrow population size since 1950. Due to my burgeoning interest in House Sparrows as a graduate student, I asked her if she had any more details. In response, she sent the raw data for me to have a look at. A big thanks to her for sending that along!
Diana's analysis was of course correct: that is, that when looking from 1950-2017, there has been no overall trend toward decline. However, my eyes wouldn't stop perceiving little peaks and dips in the cloud of data points. So I split the data up and found that there have been 3 cycles of statistically significant growth and decline since 1950. We're currently in the middle of a decline that began in 2001.
It's no surprise that there have been fluctuations in the 67 years of CBC data that we have. All wild populations fluctuate. The interesting part is telling a story as to why they fluctuate. Often, growth and decline cycles have something to do with climatic patterns, possibly interacting with things like competition and selection. Unfortunately, I'm not sure that I have the expertise to attempt any associations with climate or other factors right now. But it's likely there's something of interest going on, even if we don't know what it is!
I'm attaching a visual representation of the CBC data to this post. I color-coded each of the cycles. The x-axis shows passage of time with the far left side being 1950 and the far right being 2017. On the y-axis is the CBC count data, with lower values on the bottom and higher counts up higher. Note that the red dots, spanning the years 1950-1984, represent the longest and slowest decline. The last 2 declines (the second of which we're currently in right now) occurred on much smaller time scales, from 1985-2000 (black dots) and from 2001-present (blue dots). The lowest ever count in the entire data set was in 2016 with only 177 House Sparrows reported.
While it's likely that a population ecologist could point out several ways I've poorly described these patterns, I think it's cool that Diana began all this with an analysis of publicly-accessible data and shared it on a bird listserv. Thanks a lot to all of you for reading this, and I'd love to continue the conversation if anyone is interested!
Date: 4/13/18 9:09 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
From the Pawnee District Ranger ...
I would suggest calling the Sheriff office, when you see a true and
verifiable violation of law on the Pawnee, just like you would anywhere
else in the state. Most weekends we have a forest service patrol person out
there, looking for violations, but they can’t be everywhere, and
unfortunately, the public has no way to call them directly when they see
violations. If someone in the public sees a violation and has witnesses or
pictures, license plates and other information, and is willing to testify
in court, then we can often follow up on that after they contact us when
the office opens on the weekdays.
As far as roads are concerned. The county maintains a selection of roads
for their priority purposes, generally for people to get to their homes,
ranches and other commercial uses. The level and timing of maintenance can
vary. The Forest Service also only maintains a small number of roads to
higher standard mainly bird tour and Pawnee Buttes. Many of the remaining
roads are open to public use but they are maintained at different standards
for different needs. Sight-seeing and bird watching is a viable use of the
roads but not the priority. We have limited resources to maintain roads.
The road crew comes from another forest and is not scheduled to be here for
a few weeks yet, so early birders may have to contend with roads less
groomed. We are not a park. The road network is not intended to be
maintained for all vehicle types to use in all places (portions of road
96). We allow folks to use some of them if they wish to, but that does not
drive the decisions of which roads we spend limited resources on to
maintain at a higher standard.
Again, thanks for the info. I will pass it on to our patrol person so that
they can make sure they are spending some time in other areas and
especially along the bird tour route. Sometimes it is easy to get focused
around the shooting range when that many people are showing up.
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote:
>
> *Birds of note sensed:*
>
> After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come
> together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which
> everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not
> the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense
> their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push
> hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr.
> Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees
> them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n
> on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line.
>
>
> *Birds of note seen:*
>
> Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently
> reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of
> 134.
>
> Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134
>
> Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days
> in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains).
>
> Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125
>
>
>
>
>
> Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse
> sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown)
>
>
>
>
> Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49
>
>
> *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds,
> just common duck species.
>
>
> *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open,
> hosts on site):*
>
> Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m)
>
> Townsend's Solitaire (2)
>
> Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western
> chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the
> green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week
> or so ago).
>
>
> *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and
> killdeer, no swallows.
>
>
> [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's
> Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the
> latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they
> escaped detection.]
>
>
> Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting
> to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to
> nature observation.
>
>
> Dave Leatherman
>
> Fort Collins
>
Date: 4/13/18 8:47 am From: Chuck Aid <caid...> Subject: [cobirds] Black Phoebe
I’ve been out of town, but received these photos taken by newbie birder, Karen Strong, from I believe Mar 28, and she said she was about 0.5 mile north of the Carson Nature Center. Don’t know if anyone else picked up on this bird or not.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Roger Rouch
Observers: Heidi Hayes, Jim Low, Joel Chapa, Rob Reilly
Visitors: None
Weather: The predicted high winds held off until later afternoon making for pleasant raptor watching. Temperatures in the 50's and 60's with light winds from the E and SE in the AM and then from the NE and windy ending at about 5 bft by days end. Partly and mostly cloudy with a light haze to the south and east.
Raptor Observations: Highlights of the day were a group of ten Turkey Vultures that swirled north up and over Mt. Morrison valley early and a higher flying Broad-winged Hawk (spotted by Heidi) in the early afternoon over the Rooney Valley. No real pattern to flight path other than an increase in elevation later in the day, but few real eye strainers. Afternoon raptors seems to tack effortlessly in the NE wind. Local TV's patrolled the ridge and popped up and down from behind rocky ridge.
Non-raptor Observations: Seen or heard were Bushtit, Dark-eyed Junco, American Robin. Common Raven, Townsend's Solitaire, Spotted Towhee, Black-billed Magpie, Western Meadowlark. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Observation start time: 08:00:00 Observation end time: 13:45:00 Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Roger Rouch
Observers: Heidi Hayes, Jim Low, Joel Chapa, Rob Reilly
Visitors: None
Weather: The predicted high winds held off until later afternoon making for pleasant raptor watching. Temperatures in the 50's and 60's with light winds from the E and SE in the AM and then from the NE and windy ending at about 5 bft by days end. Partly and mostly cloudy with a light haze to the south and east.
Raptor Observations: Highlights of the day were a group of ten Turkey Vultures that swirled north up and over Mt. Morrison valley early and a higher flying Broad-winged Hawk (spotted by Heidi) in the early afternoon over the Rooney Valley. No real pattern to flight path other than an increase in elevation later in the day, but few real eye strainers. Afternoon raptors seems to tack effortlessly in the NE wind. Local TV's patrolled the ridge and popped up and down from behind rocky ridge.
Non-raptor Observations: Seen or heard were Bushtit, Dark-eyed Junco, American Robin. Common Raven, Townsend's Solitaire, Spotted Towhee, Black-billed Magpie, Western Meadowlark. ======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
On Monday, April 9, 2018 at 4:21:36 PM UTC-6, Richard Trinkner wrote: > > Some personal House Sparrow data: > > Between 1996 and 2015, House Sparrows appear on 30.16% of my Colorado > checklists. > > Between 2015 and 2018, they appear on only 13.44% of my Colorado > checklists. > > They used to be very common bird for my backyard feeders. Between 1996 and > 2015, House Sparrows were on 58.21% of my backyard checklists. *So far in > 2018, I haven't had a single House Sparrow*. Not one. I've completed 26 > checklists for my yard this year: not a single House Sparrow. > > In Boulder, House Sparrows seem to be hanging on in small numbers in very > urban areas. I walk to work most mornings in central Boulder. I used to > nearly trip on House Sparrows. I still see them often (72% of my morning > walk checklists), but now I have to listen carefully for their call and I > generally only get a small handful of individuals. > > On the center-north Boulder CBC route on which I counted last December, we > only found sparrows in only two locations, whereas in past years they were > extremely common. > > Here's an article about their decline: > https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/10/171003111056.htm. > > I've also read that they may be particularly susceptible to cell phone > tower radiation, and that their bug food source may be susceptible to such > radiation as well. > > Cheers, > > Richard Trinkner > Boulder > > > > On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < > <cob......> <javascript:>> wrote: > >> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a >> unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? >> >> She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or >> two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. >> Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? >> >> >> Hugh Kingery >> >> -- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups >> "Colorado Birds" group. >> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an >> email to cobirds+<u......> <javascript:>. >> To post to this group, send email to <cob......> >> <javascript:>. >> To view this discussion on the web visit >> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> . >> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >> > >
Date: 4/13/18 8:07 am From: <wwillem...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
In *The Moth Snowstorm: Nature and Joy, *Michael McCarthy writes eloquently about the near-extinction of house sparrows in London, England. He examines several explanations and adds the perspective of possibly more geographically restricted habitats for sparrows compared with other urban birds affected by the same factors. As a result, these other species would be better able to replenish diminished populations by influx from elsewhere, whereas sparrows would experience very localized extinction. If true, averages numbers over large areas could obscure significant differences from place to place at lower levels of aggregation.
On Monday, April 9, 2018 at 4:21:36 PM UTC-6, Richard Trinkner wrote: > > Some personal House Sparrow data: > > Between 1996 and 2015, House Sparrows appear on 30.16% of my Colorado > checklists. > > Between 2015 and 2018, they appear on only 13.44% of my Colorado > checklists. > > They used to be very common bird for my backyard feeders. Between 1996 and > 2015, House Sparrows were on 58.21% of my backyard checklists. *So far in > 2018, I haven't had a single House Sparrow*. Not one. I've completed 26 > checklists for my yard this year: not a single House Sparrow. > > In Boulder, House Sparrows seem to be hanging on in small numbers in very > urban areas. I walk to work most mornings in central Boulder. I used to > nearly trip on House Sparrows. I still see them often (72% of my morning > walk checklists), but now I have to listen carefully for their call and I > generally only get a small handful of individuals. > > On the center-north Boulder CBC route on which I counted last December, we > only found sparrows in only two locations, whereas in past years they were > extremely common. > > Here's an article about their decline: > https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/10/171003111056.htm. > > I've also read that they may be particularly susceptible to cell phone > tower radiation, and that their bug food source may be susceptible to such > radiation as well. > > Cheers, > > Richard Trinkner > Boulder > > > > On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < > <cob......> <javascript:>> wrote: > >> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a >> unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? >> >> She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or >> two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. >> Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? >> >> >> Hugh Kingery >> >> -- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups >> "Colorado Birds" group. >> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an >> email to cobirds+<u......> <javascript:>. >> To post to this group, send email to <cob......> >> <javascript:>. >> To view this discussion on the web visit >> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> . >> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >> > >
Date: 4/13/18 7:27 am From: kalistongue <kalistongue...> Subject: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
Hello,
I have also noticed less House Sparrows visiting my feeders/yard. I am used to seeing groups of 10-20 blowing through my yard for a few days, then disappearing, but then returning soon. I have lots of lilac bushes where they like to congregate. I think I first noticed their absence last fall. Since then I only get 1-2 at a time, and they don't stay around long.
Visits from chickadees and House Finches have stayed about the same, while visits from Bushtits and Red-breasted Nuthatches have increased.
I am in Englewood (Arapahoe County) near Broadway and Dartmouth.
Hi there, I will be visiting Colorado from Australia in early May to early June & will be based in Colorado Springs. I believe I may be able to find the Mountain Plover in the Karval area. Is there anyone out there who could lead me to a 'specific' area (town, road, etc) where I might find them please?
During the month I will be doing some road travelling in Colorado & perhaps into Wyoming & Utah. I also would like to see the Upland Sandpiper. Would welcome some help there too. I have been told that the Uplands is sometimes seen on private ranches.
Date: 4/13/18 5:54 am From: Paul Barchilon <shimari6593...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
I haven't noticed any decline at my home in Boulder, they still pack my feeders year round. My feederwatch counts seem the same.
With all that is going on with climate change, I sometimes fear we will be left with nothing but house sparrows and rock pigeons. They are certainly adapted to living around people!
Date: 4/12/18 4:04 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Anna's Hummingbird records in Colorado
The only counties with CBRC accepted records of Anna's Hummingbirds, if you are wondering, are: Alamosa (one) Boulder (two) Delta (one) Douglas (one) Jefferson (two) La Plata (one) Larimer (two) Mesa (two) Pueblo (two) this equals 14.
I know the 2015 record of one in Las Animas County, still hasn't been voted in/accepted yet. I think most of these birds, weren't adult males (mostly females, immature birds). I know one in Pueblo County was adult male, the 1st one, and the Las Animas County bird was as well. The first state record was in 1974 in Pueblo County, and the last one accepted was 2013 (so far). Very shocking to have an "invasion" of two Anna's Hummingbirds in Colorado today! I guess I better get a hummingbird feeder out, since I haven't seen one in Pueblo County yet. Two of the state records of Broad-billed Hummingbirds, have also occurred this time of year! Watch your hummingbird feeders closely, never know what might show up.
Date: 4/12/18 3:38 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Warbler season has begun in Colorado
Yesterday, a Northern Parula was seen in Baca County and today, a Nashville Warbler (photographed) in Jefferson County, according to e-bird reports. Also, Black-throated Gray Warblers have arrived in western Colorado. Probably will be some more warblers around this weekend, with more people out birding. Rarer warblers in the spring, don't typically stay long, so, if you find one, that people are able to look for, they should be reported quickly, especially the rarer ones. Good warbler searching all.
Thanks so much to Rachel Hopper for finding this rare hummer and getting
the word out so quickly.
Our DFO trip to Weld County Wetlands was having fun with shorebirds and
other spring migrants when
we got the word in time to go with Plan B - Rachel's backyard!
We were treated to prolonged views of the female Anna's Hummingbird,
perched at the feeder, at the top
of an aspen, with time for oohs, aahs, and photos.
We also heard her vocalize in flight.
THANKS! What a fun bird to add to the DFO Big Year 2018 list during a DFO
field trip!
Joe Roller, Denver
On Thu, Apr 12, 2018 at 12:48 PM, Rachel Hopper <r-hopper...>
wrote:
> The ANNA’S HUMMINGBIRD (adult female) has been appearing regularly at my
> feeders, but now seems to be favoring the one by the lake. So my best
> advice is stop at the bottom of the rock steps where you can see both
> feeders & wait.
>
> Sent from my iPhone
> www.rkhphotography.net
> Rachel Kolokoff Hopper
> Ft. Collins
>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "Colorado Birds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...>
> To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<41F5DD5D-DBFD-4AB0-81DF-BD31478F5D4F...>
> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<41F5DD5D-DBFD-4AB0-81DF-BD31478F5D4F...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>
Date: 4/12/18 2:25 pm From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
More news ... here is Forest Service (FS) project page for recreation shooting review on the Arapaho National Forest (Pawnee)--you'll notice they are currently looking only at the Ranger Districts in the Forest itself-not the Pawnee (Grassland District).
I suggest folks send their concerns to the Public Comment link to express (1) importance of including the Pawnee Ranger District in this effort and (2) conflicts (multi use terminology) we are seeing on the Pawnee as a result of unmanaged recreational shooting, (3) Safety concerns (big in FS) and anything else we deem important in trying to get Pawnee recreational shooting to have designated shooting areas to avoid multi-use conflicts
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > *Birds of note sensed:* > > After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come > together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which > everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not > the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense > their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push > hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. > Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees > them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n > on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line. > > > *Birds of note seen:* > > Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently > reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of > 134. > > Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134 > > Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days > in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains). > > Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125 > > > > > > Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse > sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown) > > > > > Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49 > > > *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, > just common duck species. > > > *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, > hosts on site):* > > Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m) > > Townsend's Solitaire (2) > > Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western > chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the > green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week > or so ago). > > > *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and > killdeer, no swallows. > > > [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's > Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the > latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they > escaped detection.] > > > Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting > to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to > nature observation. > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins >
Wow, two Anna's Hummingbirds in Colorado, in the same day, that's probably has never happened before. There aren't very many state records, only 14 state records through 2013 according to the Colorado Birds Records Committee website! I wonder how many others could be in Colorado right now!
Brandon K. Percival Pueblo West, CO <flammowl17...>
On Thu, Apr 12, 2018 at 2:10 PM, <alisonsheets...> wrote:
Date: 4/12/18 11:50 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
First response from Arapaho National Forest (Pawnee) regadring this thread:
- "Hi Gary, Your email got forwarded to me as I’m the recreation staff
for Canyon Lakes and the Pawnee Grassland (though not law enforcement, for
better or worse!). I hope you have a good birding trip out there this
weekend. I’ll ask some of our folks to patrol on the PNG this weekend. They
usually do this time of year. As I’m sure you’re aware, shooting is allowed
on the grasslands, but only in compliance with regulations. We can at least
try to get those folks shooting illegally. Thanks
I've asked about birding tour maybe being more patrolled or restricted to
shooting. Not sure where that will end with regards to comments made.
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote:
>
> *Birds of note sensed:*
>
> After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come
> together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which
> everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not
> the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense
> their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push
> hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr.
> Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees
> them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n
> on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line.
>
>
> *Birds of note seen:*
>
> Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently
> reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of
> 134.
>
> Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134
>
> Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days
> in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains).
>
> Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125
>
>
>
>
>
> Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse
> sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown)
>
>
>
>
> Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49
>
>
> *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds,
> just common duck species.
>
>
> *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open,
> hosts on site):*
>
> Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m)
>
> Townsend's Solitaire (2)
>
> Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western
> chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the
> green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week
> or so ago).
>
>
> *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and
> killdeer, no swallows.
>
>
> [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's
> Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the
> latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they
> escaped detection.]
>
>
> Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting
> to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to
> nature observation.
>
>
> Dave Leatherman
>
> Fort Collins
>
The ANNA’S HUMMINGBIRD (adult female) has been appearing regularly at my feeders, but now seems to be favoring the one by the lake. So my best advice is stop at the bottom of the rock steps where you can see both feeders & wait.
Sent from my iPhone
www.rkhphotography.net
Rachel Kolokoff Hopper
Ft. Collins
Date: 4/12/18 10:41 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Rescheduled: Prairie Wonders of the Pawnee National Grassland Field Trip
Hi all
Due to high winds on Saturday (25-30MPH!) I am rescheduling my trip to Pawnee until next Saturday 4/21. Use the JOIN button (to right) on URL below to re-commit or sign up anew.
Date: 4/12/18 10:33 am From: Mary Cay <mcburger3...> Subject: [cobirds] Frances Commercon at DFO Monday April 16
The next DFO meeting is April 16, 7pm. DFO monthly programs take place at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Ricketson Auditorium, beginning at 7 p.m. Enter through the north side security/employee entrance and tell the guard you are here for the DFO meeting.( PLEASE NOTE: There are no monthly programs in May, June, and July.) Bird Conservation in China by Francis Commercon The speaker for the April monthly program is Francis Commercon, a senior at Colorado State University studying Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology and Biological Science. He has been passionate about birds and the Mandarin language since elementary school. He combined these passions to study bird conservation in China for an honors thesis in 2017. Mary C Burger
10826 E Maplewood Pl
Englewood, Co 80111
720.940.8394
<mcburger3...>
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I currently have an ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD at my feeder in Ft. Collins. Birders are welcome. I live at 1721 Cottonwood Pt. Dr., Ft. Collins. Facing the house use the walkway to the left and come just around the bend and stop there. You will see the feeder by the bird bath in the back. There is a feeder by the lake but the bird has not been using that one. PLEASE do not use the walkway on the right as that is very close to where the bird is roosting in between visits to the feeder.
R.
-----------------------
Rachel Hopper
Ft. Collins. CO
<r-hopper...>
Date: 4/12/18 7:26 am From: Diana Beatty <otowi33.33...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
For what it is worth,
I just did a regression analysis of House Sparrow numbers reported on the Colorado Springs CBC since 1950 to present. There is no evidence of a decline in numbers on the CBC.
Diana Beatty Colorado Springs, CO
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 12:05 PM, Richard Trinkner < <richardinboulder...> wrote:
> Some personal House Sparrow data: > > Between 1996 and 2015, House Sparrows appear on 30.16% of my Colorado > checklists. > > Between 2015 and 2018, they appear on only 13.44% of my Colorado > checklists. > > They used to be very common bird for my backyard feeders. Between 1996 and > 2015, House Sparrows were on 58.21% of my backyard checklists. *So far in > 2018, I haven't had a single House Sparrow*. Not one. I've completed 26 > checklists for my yard this year: not a single House Sparrow. > > In Boulder, House Sparrows seem to be hanging on in small numbers in very > urban areas. I walk to work most mornings in central Boulder. I used to > nearly trip on House Sparrows. I still see them often (72% of my morning > walk checklists), but now I have to listen carefully for their call and I > generally only get a small handful of individuals. > > On the center-north Boulder CBC route on which I counted last December, we > only found sparrows in only two locations, whereas in past years they were > extremely common. > > Here's an article about their decline: https://www. > sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/10/171003111056.htm. > > I've also read that they may be particularly susceptible to cell phone > tower radiation, and that their bug food source may be susceptible to such > radiation as well. > > Cheers, > > Richard Trinkner > Boulder > > > > On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < > <cobirds...> wrote: > >> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a >> unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? >> >> She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or >> two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. >> Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? >> >> >> Hugh Kingery >> >> -- >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups >> "Colorado Birds" group. >> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an >> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> >> To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> >> To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ms >> gid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> . >> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >> > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/CAG_%3D4ze9kikJLnDM7G690pdv03y%2BKcPhbyCtZiFTa_WOdfnqug% > 40mail.gmail.com > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAG_%3D4ze9kikJLnDM7G690pdv03y%<2BKcPhbyCtZiFTa_WOdfnqug...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
--
******
All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost.
Date: 4/11/18 7:30 pm From: steve.getty <SGetty...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: House Sparrow decline - Front Range
Very interesting topic! I apologize for late reply
At our feeder/yard (just south, adjacent to Bear Creek Park, Colorado Springs), we had occasional individuals during 5-10 years ago, but then there was never more after that. I'd have to check notes, but I don't think we've had one in past 5 years.
House Finch numbers are low, but steady. I've wondered if my sample is due to other neighbors with feeders, or broader low frequency. Cassin's Finches I wouldn't term "eruptive" per feeder, as low numbers are regular, particularly after snowfall. (smart birdies know where to go!) One female has been frequently the past week.
Best Steve Getty
On Wednesday, April 11, 2018 at 5:22:04 PM UTC-6, ouzels wrote: > > Twenty-one people responded to my query about House Sparrows. > Most (17) noted diminishing numbers or total absence. They live from > Colorado Springs through metro Denver to Longmont and Boulder. Examples: > None in over a year (Gloria Nikolai, Colo Spgs); > None this year (Don Hall, Highlands Ranch); > Only 1 or 2, compared with half a dozen in past years (Keith Hidalgo, > Lakewood); > Disappeared from our back yard completely, and rarely see them in the > south Suburban area (Mary Fran O'Connor); > Definitely fewer over the years (Jean Stevenson, Aurora); > Big decline after the rains and flood of Sep 2013 (Todd Deininger, > Longmont); > From 1996-2015, HOSP on 30.16% of my Colo. checklists; from 2015-2018, > on 13.44% of my checklists. And in my backyard, from 1996-2015, on > 58.21%checklists. So far in 2018, not a single one! (Richard Trinker, > Boulder). > On the Denver Urban CBC, counts of 183 in 1/1/2017 and 311 in > 1/1/2018 -- the lowest in its history; with an average over 30 years of 1721. > They used to outnumber House Finches (also declining) but now amount to > half the number of finches. Top count 2583 in 12/30/1989. The drop started > 1/1/2011. > > On the other hand, Patrick O'Driscoll (east Denver) noted a drop from > winter counts of 25-30 to 10-12 the past few weeks -- the dispersal for > nesting noted by Nick Komar. > And three observers say the still have lots: Rebecca Laroche in > central Denver, Marsha Heron in Centennial, and Jamie Simo in Longmont. > > Hugh Kingery >
Observation start time: 09:30:00
Observation end time: 13:30:00
Total observation time: 4 hours
Official Counter: Joyce Commercon
Observers:
Visitors:
A few hikers and bikers came briefly onto the platform, mostly for the
view.
Weather:
Today was sunny with mostly blue skies and non-stop strong winds from the
west that started at bft 5 but soon were solidly bft 6 with the occasional
blast seeming to reach bft 7. Cloud-cover decreased from 40-percent as
scattered, mostly thin clouds, to 20-percent, located along the horizons.
Temperatures were warm (18 C to 21 C). Visibility was good.
Raptor Observations:
A Sharp-shinned Hawk and a Cooper's Hawk, both juveniles, passed north just
to the east of the Ridge, not long before noon MST. The Sharpie seemed to
get blown about a bit more, taking more of a north-northeasterly route up
the north end of Rooney Valley. Very little was seen moving along the
western ridges today, but, as Mike mentioned recently in a HawkWatch post,
it is very difficult to hold binoculars steady in high winds. So, coverage
today of the western ridges was not as thorough as it should have been;
scans were done often but were limited to sections visible from relatively
sheltered spots on the platform. Occasionally to the west, a local
Red-tailed Hawk or one of the local Turkey Vultures was spotted heading
back south, low in the western valley, usually just after having zipped
north (pretending to be a migrant…) In the morning, a local male American
Kestrel briefly kite-hunted just to the southwest of the platform, wings
pulled in tight, facing into the western wind. One of the local Peregrine
Falcons was observed high over the Ridge, drifting leisurely, until it was
lost against the sun. A local adult Golden Eagle also made an appearance,
coming north up the Ridge, but then turning east to check out Green
Mountain; it soon returned, against the wind, to head toward Mount
Morrison. In the afternoon, one of the local, adult Red-tailed Hawks
carried a dead snake north past the platform and then headed westward out
Vernon Creek/I-70 valley.
Non-raptor Observations:
Several White-throated Swifts rode the winds up and down the valleys and
ridges, at least once in a loose group of about thirty. A Rock Wren popped
up briefly on the east side of the platform, pausing just long enough for a
nice, good look. Also seen were Townsend's Solitaire, Common Raven, a
swallow species, Black-capped Chickadee, Black-billed Magpie, and a
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon's).
========================================================================
Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at:
http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur
Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of
the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger
long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie
Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and
Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular.
Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western
Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or
Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome.
The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of
the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from
the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an
old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the
ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through
the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the
ridge.
Date: 4/11/18 4:22 pm From: 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] House Sparrow decline - Front Range
Twenty-one people responded to my query about House Sparrows.
Most (17) noted diminishing numbers or total absence. They live from Colorado Springs through metro Denver to Longmont and Boulder. Examples:
None in over a year (Gloria Nikolai, Colo Spgs);
None this year (Don Hall, Highlands Ranch);
Only 1 or 2, compared with half a dozen in past years (Keith Hidalgo, Lakewood);
Disappeared from our back yard completely, and rarely see them in the south Suburban area (Mary Fran O'Connor);
Definitely fewer over the years (Jean Stevenson, Aurora);
Big decline after the rains and flood of Sep 2013 (Todd Deininger, Longmont);
From 1996-2015, HOSP on 30.16% of my Colo. checklists; from 2015-2018, on 13.44% of my checklists. And in my backyard, from 1996-2015, on 58.21%checklists. So far in 2018, not a single one! (Richard Trinker, Boulder).
On the Denver Urban CBC, counts of 183 in 1/1/2017 and 311 in1/1/2018 -- the lowest in its history; with an average over 30 years of 1721. They usedto outnumber House Finches (also declining) but now amount to half the numberof finches. Top count 2583 in 12/30/1989. The drop started 1/1/2011.
On the other hand, Patrick O'Driscoll (east Denver) noted a drop from winter counts of 25-30 to 10-12 the past few weeks -- the dispersal for nesting noted by Nick Komar.
And three observers say the still have lots: Rebecca Laroche in central Denver, Marsha Heron in Centennial, and Jamie Simo in Longmont.
Hugh Kingery
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Yes, we'll put an end to it. Beyond ridiculous.
Joe
On Wed, Apr 11, 2018 at 4:48 PM, 'Norm Lewis' via Colorado Birds <
<cobirds...> wrote:
> Perhaps someone could fix us up with the appropriate contact information
> for the authorities there, and the birding community could start making its
> voice heard. It is beyond ridiculous for firearms to be discharged along a
> route that is touted by the Forest Service as a wildlife viewing area.
>
> Norm Lewis
> Lakewood, CO
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Rachel <r-hopper...>
> To: coloradobirder <coloradobirder...>
> Cc: COBIRDS <cobirds...>
> Sent: Wed, Apr 11, 2018 11:05 am
> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
>
> I was on the Pawnee last week and there was a guy lying on the ground next
> to his pickup approx. 1/2 mile from his target, shooting ACROSS road 69
> near the intersection of 96 & 69 with a semi-automatic assault rifle. I did
> call the ranger's office and as usual no-one answered. I thought about
> calling the Weld County Sheriff’s Office but then decided I was gong to get
> shot so I drove out of the area. Really unbelievable. I would suggest *extreme
> caution *when driving the auto tour these days. I will not be going back.
>
> Perhaps CFO & DFO could band together with all of our members and voice a
> serious complaint to the district. I have left a voicemail with the ranger.
> Hopefully he will call me back.
> -----------------------
> Rachel Hopper
> Ft. Collins. CO
> <r-hopper...>
>
>
>
> On Apr 11, 2018, at 10:32 AM, 'The Nunn Guy' via Colorado Birds <
> <cobirds...> wrote:
>
> Hi all
>
> I have passed these comments (as anonymous reports) to our U. S. Forest
> Service/Pawnee Ranger District staff asking to investigate. I'll let you
> know how they respond and/or act.
>
> Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn
> http://coloradobirder.club/ >
>
>
> --
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> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>
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> email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...>
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> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162b6e526f9-17a3-267e...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
> For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
>
Perhaps someone could fix us up with the appropriate contact information for the authorities there, and the birding community could start making its voice heard. It is beyond ridiculous for firearms to be discharged along a route that is touted by the Forest Service as a wildlife viewing area.
I was on the Pawnee last week and there was a guy lying on the ground next to his pickup approx. 1/2 mile from his target, shooting ACROSS road 69 near the intersection of 96 & 69 with a semi-automatic assault rifle. I did call the ranger's office and as usual no-one answered. I thought about calling the Weld County Sheriff’s Office but then decided I was gong to get shot so I drove out of the area. Really unbelievable. I would suggest extreme caution when driving the auto tour these days. I will not be going back.
Perhaps CFO & DFO could band together with all of our members and voice a serious complaint to the district. I have left a voicemail with the ranger. Hopefully he will call me back.
-----------------------
Rachel Hopper
Ft. Collins. CO
<r-hopper...>
On Apr 11, 2018, at 10:32 AM, 'The Nunn Guy' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> wrote:
Hi all
I have passed these comments (as anonymous reports) to our U. S. Forest Service/Pawnee Ranger District staff asking to investigate. I'll let you know how they respond and/or act.
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On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > *Birds of note sensed:* > > After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come > together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which > everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not > the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense > their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push > hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. > Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees > them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n > on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line. > > > *Birds of note seen:* > > Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently > reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of > 134. > > Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134 > > Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days > in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains). > > Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125 > > > > > > Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse > sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown) > > > > > Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49 > > > *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, > just common duck species. > > > *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, > hosts on site):* > > Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m) > > Townsend's Solitaire (2) > > Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western > chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the > green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week > or so ago). > > > *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and > killdeer, no swallows. > > > [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's > Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the > latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they > escaped detection.] > > > Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting > to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to > nature observation. > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins >
Date: 4/11/18 10:28 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
On bird trip I am leading this weekend out on Pawnee I'll be sure to take plenty of photos of what is going on along Weld CR 96 and beyond to show Pawnee staff.
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > *Birds of note sensed:* > > After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come > together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which > everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not > the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense > their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push > hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. > Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees > them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n > on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line. > > > *Birds of note seen:* > > Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently > reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of > 134. > > Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134 > > Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days > in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains). > > Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125 > > > > > > Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse > sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown) > > > > > Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49 > > > *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, > just common duck species. > > > *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, > hosts on site):* > > Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m) > > Townsend's Solitaire (2) > > Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western > chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the > green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week > or so ago). > > > *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and > killdeer, no swallows. > > > [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's > Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the > latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they > escaped detection.] > > > Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting > to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to > nature observation. > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins >
Date: 4/11/18 10:11 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
I've passed along these new comments as well (anonymously) to entire Pawnee district staff (includes law enforcement), the Arapaho Forest Recreation manager and Arapaho Forest Communications staff.
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > *Birds of note sensed:* > > After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come > together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which > everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not > the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense > their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push > hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. > Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees > them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n > on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line. > > > *Birds of note seen:* > > Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently > reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of > 134. > > Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134 > > Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days > in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains). > > Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125 > > > > > > Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse > sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown) > > > > > Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49 > > > *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, > just common duck species. > > > *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, > hosts on site):* > > Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m) > > Townsend's Solitaire (2) > > Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western > chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the > green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week > or so ago). > > > *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and > killdeer, no swallows. > > > [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's > Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the > latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they > escaped detection.] > > > Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting > to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to > nature observation. > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins >
Date: 4/11/18 10:08 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Long-eared Owl Photos/Video [Weld]
Hi all
The Long-eared Owl (one of two) stayed in our yard until dark treating us to several hunt chases right in our backyard! Gone this morning-we think! ;-)
Date: 4/11/18 10:02 am From: linda hodges <hikerhodges...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
You might consider getting Audubon Rockies involved, as well.
Linda Hodges
Colorado Springs
On Wed, Apr 11, 2018, 10:59 AM Rachel <r-hopper...> wrote:
> I was on the Pawnee last week and there was a guy lying on the ground next
> to his pickup approx. 1/2 mile from his target, shooting ACROSS road 69
> near the intersection of 96 & 69 with a semi-automatic assault rifle. I did
> call the ranger's office and as usual no-one answered. I thought about
> calling the Weld County Sheriff’s Office but then decided I was gong to get
> shot so I drove out of the area. Really unbelievable. I would suggest *extreme
> caution *when driving the auto tour these days. I will not be going back.
>
> Perhaps CFO & DFO could band together with all of our members and voice a
> serious complaint to the district. I have left a voicemail with the ranger.
> Hopefully he will call me back.
> -----------------------
> Rachel Hopper
> Ft. Collins. CO
> <r-hopper...>
>
>
>
> On Apr 11, 2018, at 10:32 AM, 'The Nunn Guy' via Colorado Birds <
> <cobirds...> wrote:
>
> Hi all
>
> I have passed these comments (as anonymous reports) to our U. S. Forest
> Service/Pawnee Ranger District staff asking to investigate. I'll let you
> know how they respond and/or act.
>
> Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn
> http://coloradobirder.club/ >
>
>
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>
I was on the Pawnee last week and there was a guy lying on the ground next to his pickup approx. 1/2 mile from his target, shooting ACROSS road 69 near the intersection of 96 & 69 with a semi-automatic assault rifle. I did call the ranger's office and as usual no-one answered. I thought about calling the Weld County Sheriff’s Office but then decided I was gong to get shot so I drove out of the area. Really unbelievable. I would suggest extreme caution when driving the auto tour these days. I will not be going back.
Perhaps CFO & DFO could band together with all of our members and voice a serious complaint to the district. I have left a voicemail with the ranger. Hopefully he will call me back.
-----------------------
Rachel Hopper
Ft. Collins. CO
<r-hopper...>
> On Apr 11, 2018, at 10:32 AM, 'The Nunn Guy' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> wrote:
>
> Hi all
>
> I have passed these comments (as anonymous reports) to our U. S. Forest Service/Pawnee Ranger District staff asking to investigate. I'll let you know how they respond and/or act.
>
> Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn
> http://coloradobirder.club/ >
>
Date: 4/11/18 9:39 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Hi all
I have passed these comments (as anonymous reports) to our U. S. Forest Service/Pawnee Ranger District staff asking to investigate. I'll let you know how they respond and/or act.
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > *Birds of note sensed:* > > After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come > together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which > everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not > the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense > their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push > hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. > Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees > them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n > on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line. > > > *Birds of note seen:* > > Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently > reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of > 134. > > Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134 > > Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days > in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains). > > Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125 > > > > > > Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse > sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown) > > > > > Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49 > > > *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, > just common duck species. > > > *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, > hosts on site):* > > Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m) > > Townsend's Solitaire (2) > > Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western > chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the > green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week > or so ago). > > > *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and > killdeer, no swallows. > > > [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's > Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the > latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they > escaped detection.] > > > Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting > to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to > nature observation. > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins >
Date: 4/10/18 9:21 pm From: Sally Waterhouse <smwaterh...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Two Red-necked Grebes - Pueblo Res. SWA 4/9
Relocated the Red-necked Grebe at 3PM today. Sounds like the same area. Thanks!
On Monday, April 9, 2018 at 2:29:54 PM UTC-6, Brandon wrote: > > > This morning, before the El Paso County Monday Birders (MAMBO) appeared, I > saw two breeding plumage *Red-necked Grebes *seen from the State Wildlife > Area, in the north west side of Pueblo Reservoir (Pueblo County) Luckily > for the group, we all saw one of them. We had a nice morning, into the > afternoon of birding around Lake Pueblo State Park, Swallows, and the SWA. > Check their e-bird lists for more information on where we saw things. > > Some of the other highlights: were a pair of Black Phoebes and a pair of > Eastern Phoebes that have been around for a few weeks now, one non-breeding > plumage Common Loon, and a flyover calling Red Crossbill at Swallows. > Shorebirds were, 13 American Avocets, both Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, > and three Baird's Sandpipers. We saw all six Colorado grebe species, and > both Franklin's and Bonaparte's Gulls. > > Good birding, > > -- > Brandon Percival > Pueblo West, CO >
Date: 4/10/18 8:35 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Short-eared Owls Hwy 36 - Arapahoe and Adams Counties 4/10
Today as we returned from a very nice DFO field trip to Yuma County, we spotted two *Short-eared Owls* foraging along Hwy 36 as we drove between Byers and East Bijou Creek, along the Arapahoe / Adams line (which there runs along the highway). East Bijou is the first notable drainage east of Byers. It was 6:20 pm, mostly cloudy. We watched one foraging for several minutes close to the highway, and then another flew from the roadside about 0.5 mile from the first. Also in Arapahoe, 5 *Burrowing Owls* were at the prairie dog town along CR 269 at about 1.3 miles south of Hwy 36.
Dave, I know your frustration with CR96. I was there a few weeks back and was sickened by what I saw. -sharon kay
On Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 8:36:44 PM UTC-6, Dave Leatherman wrote: > > *Birds of note sensed:* > > After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come > together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which > everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not > the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense > their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push > hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. > Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees > them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n > on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line. > > > *Birds of note seen:* > > Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently > reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of > 134. > > Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134 > > Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days > in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains). > > Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125 > > > > > > Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse > sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown) > > > > > Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49 > > > *A&B Res #1 *on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, > just common duck species. > > > *At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, > hosts on site):* > > Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m) > > Townsend's Solitaire (2) > > Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western > chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the > green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week > or so ago). > > > *Crom Lake* on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and > killdeer, no swallows. > > > [Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's > Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the > latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they > escaped detection.] > > > Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting > to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to > nature observation. > > > Dave Leatherman > > Fort Collins >
Date: 4/10/18 7:36 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] Pawnee Grasslands 10April2018 (Weld)
Birds of note sensed:
After getting a not so early start, I arrived near where WY-NE-CO come together ne of Grover about 8am. My target was Sharp-tailed Grouse, which everybody has seemingly found. I got a few extra hours of sleep but not the birds, these two facts being no doubt related. However, I could sense their presence. Can I make a pencil mark on the checklist if I don't push hard? Also, for what it's worth, I met a nice local rancher named Mr. Klingensmith who has lived in the area 20+ years and said he often sees them while driving e on CR134 between 125 and 129 and also going from 134 n on 125 a few miles to the unmarked State Line.
Birds of note seen:
Chestnut-collared Longspur (at least 20): mostly near the recently reported S-t Grouse locations, especially on the w side of Weld CR115 n of 134.
Northern Shrike (1a) 117 n of 134
Loggerhead Shrike (1a) 111 just s of the State Line (not too many days in spring or autumn when both shrikes occur on the northern CO plains).
Long-billed Curlew (4) in wheat stubble s of 134 just w of 125
[cid:231c65eb-a247-4c0c-8021-d15596cf763d]
Rough-legged Hawk (at least 4): in the general area of the S-t Grouse sightings plus one on CR77 near GR96 n of Crow Valley (shown)
[cid:7882eb8c-5d7b-4edb-adf4-3efd1298d30f]
Golden Eagle (1) CR90 w of CR49
A&B Res #1 on 124 a few miles w of 77: water is high, no shorebirds, just common duck species.
At Crow Valley late this afternoon into early evening (gate is now open, hosts on site):
Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1m)
Townsend's Solitaire (2)
Total of 25 bird species at CVCG/Briggsdale plus my FOY heard western chorus frogs (note, I did NOT see Mountain Plovers e of Briggsdale in the green strips of winter wheat on CR79 just s of SR14 where they were a week or so ago).
Crom Lake on 131 w of Pierce: water high, mostly common ducks and killdeer, no swallows.
[Did NOT see large numbers of sparrows today, did NOT see McCown's Longspur, did NOT see any kingbirds or Burrowing Owls. Regarding the latter, I did not check any prairie-dog towns, so maybe no surprise they escaped detection.]
Furthermore, I did NOT drive GR96 ("Murphy's Pasture") out of not wanting to get pissed at all the gun activity on a route supposedly devoted to nature observation.
Just had my first of the season Broad-tailed Hummingbird at one of my feeders. I think this is the first time that I've had a female as my first of the season Broad-tailed.
David Waltman
Boulder
Boulder County foothills; 6,000 feet 1/2 way between Boulder and Lyons
Date: 4/10/18 3:25 pm From: Robert Righter <rorighter...> Subject: [cobirds] Possible Sagebrush Sparrow Cherry Creek SP
Hi:
This afternoon, approximately 2 pm, while walking the path to Beaver Ponds, on the eastside of the wetlands, a sparrow popped out from the adjacent shubs, about 20 yards away and perched in the interior of the shrub. The throat of the sparrow was clean white. Side of the throat was thin darkish stripe, (lateral throat stripe). Adjacent to that stripe was a clean white malar stripe. The head appeared a neutral brown tone with what I thought included some grayish tones. The tail was longish and was occasionally flicked up and down. I kept waiting a second, more confirming look, but that never happened, consequently this unusual sighting for Cherry Creek Res. should be a listed as possible, maybe others will also see this sparrow or even better snap a convincing photo.
Date: 4/10/18 10:15 am From: Joe Roller <jroller9...> Subject: [cobirds] CALIFORNIA QUAIL seen today by Vic Zerbi, Moffat County
Vic Zerbi phoned to get the word out that he heard, saw and photographed a California Quail at the Visitor Center of Dinosaur National Monument, Moffat County early this morning, April 10.
The bird was in the Visitor Center parking lot, and Vic got photographs. If the bird is confirmed by the Colorado Bird Records Committee, it will be a first Colorado record for this species.
FYI, that Visitor Center is 325 miles from Denver, an approximately 5 and a half hour drive.
Date: 4/9/18 10:29 pm From: SeEttaM <seettam...> Subject: [cobirds] Wood Ducks very high up a tree, 'house hunting' along the Canon City Riverwalk
A few days ago while walking on the Canon City Riverwalk I spotted a male Wood Duck high up in a large cottonwood tree about 70-80 feet above the ground. I was really surprised as I have never seen a Wood Duck so high above the ground. After watching it for a bit a female Wood Duck appeared from behind a large branch in the same tree but about 10-15 feet below the male. I took a pic that shows how high up the male was above the ground that I have uploaded to my Birds and Nature blog <https://birdsandnature.blogspot.com/2018/04/wood-ducks-way-high-up-in-tree.html>along with information on Wood Duck house hunting.
Date: 4/9/18 9:32 pm From: SeEttaM <seettam...> Subject: [cobirds] Canon City area update on migrants plus wandering bird species
Migrants in addition to the Eastern and Black Phoebes I reported on a few days ago:
About 40 White-throated Swifts were feeding above the city water pond on Tunnel Dr Rd a week ago.
Yellow-rumped Warblers, both Audubon and Myrtles, have been moving through the Canon City Riverwalk for the past 5 or 6 days.
1 Snowy Egret at Florence River Park
First of the year male Broad-tailed Hummingbird buzzed me 2 days ago on the Tunnel Drive Rd.
Yesterday I spotted 1 Great Egret on the far side of the east Valco Ponds off MacKenzie Ave. (private property, seen from side of road near bridge)
----------------- Wanderers"
4 Stellars Jays are still visiting the Canon City Riverwalk (first saw them 2 months ago but thought they would gone by now
About 2 dozen Evening Grosbeak along with a dozen or so Pine Siskins I previously reported on continue in Lincoln Park
>12 Cassin's Finches, which I haven't seen in several years, have joined the Evening Grosbeak and Pine Siskins ---------------------- I am behind on photos but did get about 5 close up pics of the Eastern Phoebes that I have seen several times along Tunnel Drive Rd onto my Birds and Nature blo <https://birdsandnature.blogspot.com/>g.
Adult Long-eared owl seen today at 11:00am. On Springbrook north loop trail south of highway 170 near Eldorado Springs. In ponderosa forrest. Need to hike 1-2 miles from trailhead. Alison Sheets
Date: 4/9/18 7:50 pm From: 'Norm Lewis' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Am. Goldfinches - Pueblo
I was surprised to find a flock of fifteen American goldfinches in the town of Briggsdale this afternoon. eBird flagged it.
Norm Lewis
Lakewood, CO
-----Original Message-----
From: Leon Bright <urraca2...>
To: Cobirds <cobirds...>
Sent: Mon, Apr 9, 2018 9:46 am
Subject: [cobirds] Am. Goldfinches - Pueblo
COBirders-- While this post doesn’t compare to the others this morning about super rarities, I wanted to share my pleasure observing the flock of 12-15 American Goldfinches that have been visiting my feeders for the last fortnight. It is interesting to observe the variety of stages of molt in the males. This morning one appeared that had almost achieved full breeding plumage while others are still in intermediate stages. Also, a few Pine Siskins have begun to show up after an absence of over a year. I’ve noticed that at times these two irruptive species appear to be associated in their wanderings.
Leon Bright
Pueblo
--
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Observation start time: 08:15:00
Observation end time: 14:00:00
Total observation time: 5.75 hours
Official Counter: Joyce Commercon
Observers:
Visitors:
Not many people were on the trail today. One biker came up for the view and
to look at the Moto-cross track. A trail-runner, who apparently was doing a
6-mile circuit, took in the view; she was surprised and impressed by the
rockiness of the trail further south on the Ridge.
Weather:
The watch started not long after a light rain/snow shower had passed; the
cloud-ceiling was low and visibility down the Ridge and along all the
western ridges was obscured; the area around Green Mountain was partially
enveloped by fog. Visibility was normal by mid-morning when the
cloud-ceiling lifted from the western ridges. Winds were primarily from the
east, often with a southeastern component, and mildly breezy at bft 2, with
the occasional gust at bft 3. Cloud-cover started at 85-percent; brightened
patches roamed the valleys and ridges in the morning where breaks in the
clouds allowed the sun to peak through. Over the course of the morning,
cloud-cover decreased to 40-percent. Twice during the watch, a sunlit
sprinkling of light snow briefly fell upon the HawkWatch platform. In
general, the clouds were very, very mobile today. A few translucent,
gossamer clouds appeared out of the blue. There were all sizes of
cumulus-types; most were tattered-looking with edges seemingly shredded
from shearing past each other while carried by opposing winds. In the
afternoon, heavier gray clouds formed far south down the Ridge as well as
just north of the platform. Temperatures rose from 5 C to 10 C.
Raptor Observations:
The number of migrants today was not particularly high but the variety was
very welcome. Most of the migrants passed to the west of the Ridge today.
The first official migrant of the morning was an Osprey that passed nearby
at eyelevel over the western valley. Not long afterwards, a warm-brown,
juvenile Ferruginous Hawk was spied moving north along the western ridges.
The highlight of the day occurred later in the morning when an adult
Northern Goshawk was spotted mid-level in the valley in front of Mount
Morrison; it circled up high, moving north along WestRidge, then
disappeared heading west-northwest. Raptor activity slowed for both
migrants and locals for a period before noon MST, but this lull was broken
by the arrival of a heavily-bibbed, adult Swainson's Hawk that was spotted
southwest of the platform and, after circling up fairly high (still visible
to the unaided eye), migrated north along the western valley.
One interesting note: the watch opened with the near-immediate sighting of
a Cooper’s Hawk (a probable juvenile) rising up just to the east of the
HawkWatch platform; it headed northeast, disappearing into the fog near
Green Mountain, and was noted as a possible migrant. Within the next
half-hour, a group of Rock Pigeons were spotted, flying a bit raggedly back
and forth (not the usual graceful and synchronous wheeling-about one
expects), just north of I-70 in the western valley. A second look revealed
a Cooper’s Hawk giving chase among them, likely the same one seen earlier.
A couple of hours later, a juvenile Cooper’s Hawk, possibly the same one,
was observed to circle up very high in the western valley over I-70 then
shoot northward.
Non-raptor Observations:
A Western Meadowlark was heard a few times this morning. Not to be outdone,
a Canyon Wren was heard several times. A little over fifteen American
Robins were observed to fly south over the western valley and descend into
Matthews-Winters Park. Also seen were Townsend's Solitaire, Rock Pigeon,
Black-billed Magpie, Black-capped Chickadee, Common Raven, Northern
Flicker, American Crow, Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay, a gull species,
White-throated Swift, and a lone Bushtit. About 8 Mule Deer were spotted
just below the trees on WestRidge
========================================================================
Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>)
Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at:
http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description:
Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is
the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur
Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of
the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger
long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie
Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned
Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and
Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular.
Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western
Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or
Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome.
The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of
the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site:
From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take
left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from
the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an
old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the
ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through
the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the
ridge.
Date: 4/9/18 3:42 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Red-breasted x Red-naped Sapsucker hybrid - Bent Co. 4/9
The bird is at campsite 67, for anyone interested in trying to see this bird today.
-- Brandon Percival Pueblo West, CO
> Brian Gibbons just texted me, that he and his group is looking and trying > to photograph a hybrid Red-breasted x Red-naped Sapsucker at Hasty > Campground, Bent County, in SE Colorado on 4/9. I know there have been at > least a couple of these hybrids in Colorado, though not too many I don't > think. > > -- > Brandon Percival > Pueblo West, CO >
Date: 4/9/18 3:38 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Red-breasted x Red-naped Sapsucker hybrid - Bent Co. 4/9
Brian Gibbons just texted me, that he and his group is looking and trying to photograph a hybrid Red-breasted x Red-naped Sapsucker at Hasty Campground, Bent County, in SE Colorado on 4/9. I know there have been at least a couple of these hybrids in Colorado, though not too many I don't think.
Date: 4/9/18 3:36 pm From: Sharon Kay <sharonkay.mt...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Long-billed Dowitcher and Great Egret [Weld]
I saw that egret today in the same place Gary. Today is Monday. It flew east after a bit. Beautifully white.
On Monday, April 9, 2018 at 10:22:46 AM UTC-6, The "Nunn Guy" wrote: > > Hi all > > On my usually Sunday morning route ... > > - Great Egret (small irrigation pond west side of Weld CR 47 just > south of Weld CR 48) > - Long-billed Dowitcher (Cozzens Lake along with Greater and Lesser > Yellowlegs) > - Lesser Black-backed Gull (adult, on west side of Weld CR 23 with > usual gull flock north of Drake Lake in field adjacent to house on north > side of Drake Lake. Also, half dozen or so Franklin's Gull) > > Reminder Saturday Pawnee NG field trip: > http://coloradobirder.club/m/events/view/Prairie-Wonders-of-the-Pawnee-National-Grassland > > > Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn > > http://coloradobirder.club/ > > >
Date: 4/9/18 3:21 pm From: Richard Trinkner <richardinboulder...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
Some personal House Sparrow data:
Between 1996 and 2015, House Sparrows appear on 30.16% of my Colorado checklists.
Between 2015 and 2018, they appear on only 13.44% of my Colorado checklists.
They used to be very common bird for my backyard feeders. Between 1996 and 2015, House Sparrows were on 58.21% of my backyard checklists. *So far in 2018, I haven't had a single House Sparrow*. Not one. I've completed 26 checklists for my yard this year: not a single House Sparrow.
In Boulder, House Sparrows seem to be hanging on in small numbers in very urban areas. I walk to work most mornings in central Boulder. I used to nearly trip on House Sparrows. I still see them often (72% of my morning walk checklists), but now I have to listen carefully for their call and I generally only get a small handful of individuals.
On the center-north Boulder CBC route on which I counted last December, we only found sparrows in only two locations, whereas in past years they were extremely common.
I've also read that they may be particularly susceptible to cell phone tower radiation, and that their bug food source may be susceptible to such radiation as well.
Cheers,
Richard Trinkner Boulder
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a > unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? > > She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or > two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. > Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? > > > Hugh Kingery > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
As a follow-up to Kevin's post today about hummingbirds....they're definitely trickling in now.
At least one male Broad-tailed Hummingbird has been frequenting my feeder almost daily since last Friday April, 6th (put the feeder up on April 1st with the cold weather we've been having but have been out of town since then so maybe he has been visiting longer).
Date: 4/9/18 1:29 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Two Red-necked Grebes - Pueblo Res. SWA 4/9
This morning, before the El Paso County Monday Birders (MAMBO) appeared, I saw two breeding plumage *Red-necked Grebes *seen from the State Wildlife Area, in the north west side of Pueblo Reservoir (Pueblo County) Luckily for the group, we all saw one of them. We had a nice morning, into the afternoon of birding around Lake Pueblo State Park, Swallows, and the SWA. Check their e-bird lists for more information on where we saw things.
Some of the other highlights: were a pair of Black Phoebes and a pair of Eastern Phoebes that have been around for a few weeks now, one non-breeding plumage Common Loon, and a flyover calling Red Crossbill at Swallows. Shorebirds were, 13 American Avocets, both Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, and three Baird's Sandpipers. We saw all six Colorado grebe species, and both Franklin's and Bonaparte's Gulls.
Date: 4/9/18 1:06 pm From: 'Jean Stevenson' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: RE: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
I don’t know about the woman in Lafayette, But the lack of house sparrows I reported in southeast Aurora is an observation covering the entire year. Jean Stevenson
=J=
From: Nicholas Komar
Sent: Monday, April 9, 2018 1:03 PM
To: <ouzels8...>
Cc: <cobirds...>
Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
The answer is that they have dispersed from their winter flocks for breeding. This is an annual phenomenon.
Best,
Nick Komar
Fort Collins CO
On Apr 9, 2018, at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> wrote:
Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone?
She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows?
Hugh Kingery
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Date: 4/9/18 12:33 pm From: kevygudguy via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Broad-tailed? Hummingbird in west Centennial, Arapahoe County
Hello Fellow Birders,
Just got glimpses of a hummingbird in my little townhouse yard in west Centennial, near Holly & Arapaho. Pretty sure it wan't a Rufous or Calliope, so I'm guessing Broad-tailed. I'm attaching a couple of crummy pictures of it.
Keep Smilin',
Kevin
Sent from my Remington Rand Typewriter via my Rotary Dial Wall Phone
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Date: 4/9/18 12:03 pm From: Nicholas Komar <quetzal65...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
The answer is that they have dispersed from their winter flocks for breeding. This is an annual phenomenon.
Best,
Nick Komar Fort Collins CO
> On Apr 9, 2018, at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> wrote: > > Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? > > She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? > > > Hugh Kingery > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
Date: 4/9/18 11:06 am From: Todd Deininger <goldeneagle90a...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
In Longmont I noticed a big decline after the rains and flood of Sep 2013.
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018, 11:48 AM 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a > unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? > > She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or > two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. > Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? > > > Hugh Kingery > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit > https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
Date: 4/9/18 11:01 am From: 'Jean Stevenson' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: RE: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
Yes, in southeast Aurora, over the years, we have definitely noticed fewer house sparrows. For several years house finches have dominated with lots of other interesting species occurring , more nuthatches, more goldfinches, occasional bushtits, solitaires and this year even red crossbills.
Jean Stevenson, Arapahoe County, east of Quincy Reservoir
=J=
From: 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds
Sent: Monday, April 9, 2018 11:48 AM
To: <cobirds...>
Subject: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone?
She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows?
Hugh Kingery
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Date: 4/9/18 10:54 am From: Patrick O'Driscoll <patodrisk...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
Since last fall and through winter, I averaged 25-30 in/around my back yard in east-central Denver (off East Colfax). The past few weeks, the number is more like 10-12. I had assumed maybe some natural reason, like the rest going off to make nests and have babies elsewhere.
Patrick O'Driscoll Denver
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a > unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? > > She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or > two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. > Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? > > > Hugh Kingery > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
Date: 4/9/18 10:54 am From: Joe Roller <jroller9...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
House Sparrow decline has been well-studied in England and India, and seems to be patchy, but world-wide. Here is a way to find relevant articles on the web:
type in key words: *house sparrow population decline*
eBird is a great data base for studying this, in the US and all over, so don't do what I used to do and put "x" in the number box for those charming Weavers, put a number.
Joe Roller, Denver
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 11:48 AM, 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a > unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone? > > She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or > two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. > Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows? > > > Hugh Kingery > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<162ab861dc0-179e-141ed...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
Date: 4/9/18 10:48 am From: 'Hugh Kingery' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] House Sparrows - Boulder & metro area
Denver Audubon just received a call from a woman in Lafayette with a unique subject: where have the House Sparrows gone?
She says she used to have as many as 80, but now she sees only a pair or two, sproadically. They check out her yard and continue on somewhere else. Have any of you experienced a diminishing numbers of House Sparrows?
Hugh Kingery
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Date: 4/9/18 9:22 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Long-billed Dowitcher and Great Egret [Weld]
Hi all
On my usually Sunday morning route ...
- Great Egret (small irrigation pond west side of Weld CR 47 just south of Weld CR 48) - Long-billed Dowitcher (Cozzens Lake along with Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs) - Lesser Black-backed Gull (adult, on west side of Weld CR 23 with usual gull flock north of Drake Lake in field adjacent to house on north side of Drake Lake. Also, half dozen or so Franklin's Gull)
Date: 4/9/18 8:47 am From: Leon Bright <urraca2...> Subject: [cobirds] Am. Goldfinches - Pueblo
COBirders-- While this post doesn't compare to the others this morning about super rarities, I wanted to share my pleasure observing the flock of 12-15 American Goldfinches that have been visiting my feeders for the last fortnight. It is interesting to observe the variety of stages of molt in the males. This morning one appeared that had almost achieved full breeding plumage while others are still in intermediate stages. Also, a few Pine Siskins have begun to show up after an absence of over a year. I've noticed that at times these two irruptive species appear to be associated in their wanderings.
Date: 4/9/18 8:28 am From: 'The \Nunn Guy\' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Weld County Spring Birds
Hi all
To continue about the ethics of entering oil and gas operations access roads ... "Birders were out birding the other day and drove that oil road behind Behrens Res. again. The farmer came out on a motorcycle and said it is private and went on and on about people (not birders) causing problems back there. He's considering putting up a no trespassing sign." Sounds like birders behave. :-)
I "assume" the same access issues for the oil and gas access road on east side of Loloff Reservoir. When in doubt about access ask the locals would be my advice--they would probably allow access knowing who is going back there.
We told him we would leave immediately and he said we could look as he knows my car now. We left immediately. We will not drive that road again. On Monday, April 2, 2018 at 8:59:39 AM UTC-6, The "Nunn Guy" wrote: > > Hi all > > In the process of uploading photos ... > > - Mountain Bluebird - 5 [Weld CR 100 and 108] > - Sage Thrasher - 1 [Weld CR 114 about one mile east of Hwy 85] > - Mourning Dove - 1 [Weld CR 102] > - Say's Phoebe - 3 [My Nunn yard, Windsor Lake and Weld CR 48 Marsh] > - Spotted Sandpiper - 2 [Crom Lake] > - Great-tailed Grackle - 13 [Woods Lake (10); Crom Lake (1); Drake > Lake (1); Weld CR 86 Marsh (1)] > - Franklin's Gull - 5 [Drake Lake] > - Greater Yellowlegs - 9 [Weld CR 48 Marsh (5); Weld CR 23 Pond > (Severance) (4)] > - Least Sandpiper - 2 [Weld CR 23 Pond (Severance)] > - American Avocet - 8 [Beebe Draw] > - Yellow-headed Blackbird - 1 [Weld CR 84 Marsh (Pierce)] > - Sandhill Crane - 1 [Behren's Reservoir] > - Loggerhead Shrike, Black-necked Stilt in Latham Reservoir and Beebe > Draw complex reported by local birders in conversation afield > > Ethics issues/questions: > > - Saw two birders blatantly trespassing in LaSalle-area hot spot. It > is an oil and gas service/ranching road which also had no trespass sign at > the access entrance-in talking with the local birders above they mentioned > the two birders said they were not from the area > - Question: Is the oil and gas service road on east side of Behrens > Reservoir public access? Does not have No Trespass sign. > - Question: Is the oil and gas road on east side of Loloff Reservoir > public access? Does not have No Trespass sign. > > Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn > > http://coloradobirder.club/ > > >
Date: 4/9/18 8:24 am From: Nicholas Komar <quetzal65...> Subject: [cobirds] Boedecker Lake rarities (Larimer)
This morning a Sagebrush Sparrow was photographed along the north shore of Boedecker Lake in southwest Loveland (see photo below). Also, a presumed escaped Eurasian Goldfinch was observed (but not photographed) in a flock of American Goldfinches near southwest shore (on Swainsona Drive). According to local birders it has been around for a few days.
To search for the sagebrush sparrow, park at the state wildlife area parking lot at the northwest corner and hike along the shore for about a quarter-mile until you get to a grassy peninsula.
Date: 4/9/18 7:53 am From: Ira Sanders <zroadrunner14...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] California quail -- new state bird?
Mark, The state list is at 501 and the California Quail is not on it. Ira Sanders
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 8:48 AM, 'Mark Obmascik' via Colorado Birds < <cobirds...> wrote:
> Kenny Frisch's documentation of a California quail this weekend at > Dinosaur National Monument (Moffat County) made me wonder two things: > > 1. How big is Colorado's state list these days? > 2. Whatever happened to the group of ruffed grouse in the aspen grove > above Browns Park a few years back? The most recent record on ebird is 10 > years ago. Has anyone tried for them since? > > Here's Kenny's ebird list with the quail: > https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S44389097 > > Mark Obmascik > Denver, CO > > -- > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups > "Colorado Birds" group. > To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an > email to cobirds+<unsubscribe...> > To post to this group, send email to <cobirds...> > To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/ > msgid/cobirds/<979543579.734262.1523285321061...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<979543579.734262.1523285321061...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > . > For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. >
-- Ira Sanders Golden, CO "My mind is a raging torrent flooded with rivulets of thought cascading into a waterfall of creative alternatives."
Date: 4/9/18 7:48 am From: 'Mark Obmascik' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] California quail -- new state bird?
Kenny Frisch's documentation of a California quail this weekend at Dinosaur National Monument (Moffat County) made me wonder two things:
1. How big is Colorado's state list these days?2. Whatever happened to the group of ruffed grouse in the aspen grove above Browns Park a few years back? The most recent record on ebird is 10 years ago. Has anyone tried for them since?
Here's Kenny's ebird list with the quail: https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S44389097
Date: 4/9/18 7:44 am From: 'Steven Mlodinow' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] First photographically documented California Quail in CO
Greetings All,
Kenny Frisch, a Utah birder, was the first to confirm (with photographs of a male) the occurrence of California Quail in CO. It was at the Dinosaur National Monument, Canyon Area Visitor Center, just north of US 40 a few miles west of the town of Dinosaur, Moffat County over the weekend.
Probably, all (or at least most) sightings of "Gambel's Quail" from Moffat County pertain to this species which - in Utah - occurs pretty much to the CO border near Dinosaur. Quail have been found at Browns NWR headquarter feeders, feeders in the town of Dinosaur, Deer Lodge Park, and Irish Canyon (the latter well documented by Andrew Spencer from a number of years ago)
Kathy Mihm-Dunning, David Dowell and I have each made trips over several years to this area without success, so many congratulations to Kenny.
Good Lucky and Good Birding
Steven Mlodinow, Longmont CO
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Date: 4/9/18 6:57 am From: Patrick O'Driscoll <patodrisk...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Graylag goose
Yes, Rod, actually it is one of two Graylag/Swan/Domestic goose hybrids
that have lived in the park year-round for at least several years.
Patrick O'Driscoll
Denver
On Mon, Apr 9, 2018 at 6:01 AM, Roderick Webb <roderickwbb...> wrote:
> We have been seeing what appears to be a graylag goose at the Duck Pond at
> City Park- haven’t seen any report of this here. Is this old news? The
> goose has been present for 5 days or so.
> Rod Webb
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
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We have been seeing what appears to be a graylag goose at the Duck Pond at City Park- haven’t seen any report of this here. Is this old news? The goose has been present for 5 days or so.
Rod Webb
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Mike Fernandez
Observers:
Visitors: From ~ 11:30-12:30 MST, Pam Batton (longtime Dinosaur Ridge Hawkwatcher), led a group of secondary school teachers taking a continuing education class on raptors through the School of Mines. The group of 12, including Pam, had some excellent preparation and many had prior personal experience. They spent about an hour with eyes on the skies and then Pam had them present their raptor reports on the platform. It was a learning experience for me as well!
Qwahn Kent joined at around noon and stayed till 2:30 MST. Qwahn is a high school senior in Vail and is a passionate birder. He starts at Cornell in the fall with the intention of majoring in ecology. We had a good conversation and he gets the protocol. He now has all of our DinoHawk info (via that business card) and is interested in helping us in the future (during spring break?). Qwahn was truly helpful in spotting and identifying raptors. He was in Denver with his family for a track meet, had done some research and found out about our site, and chose to stay over an extra day to do some birding from Dnosaur Ridge.
Weather: Intense sun and wind (again) today, with gusts up to 34 mph, BFT 7 (whole trees in motion; resistance felt walking against the wind; hard to hold the binocs steady).
Raptor Observations: Migrating Raptors: There were a few brief periods of respite from the intense winds when i expected a flood of migrators. But no. Today they were up to (and even seemed to prefer) the challenge, trying a grueling low height of flight (HOF zero) west of the ridge, pausing suspended in mid air, eye level, for long periods (and great photo ops). Then going up a thermal near our site and soaring oddly, facing west while flying north, swinging south at times, regaining their path. Raptors were all over the place, far west black specks, directly over ridge, east of ridge, west of ridge, high and low. Trying to figure it out. It was a migration in slow motion today. Profiles were atypical, shaped by wind. Hard to tell locals from migrators due to circumnavigation. Often showing up west of ridge at eye level and then suddenly disappear.
Non-Migrating Raptors: Locals showed up west and east of ridge and then disappeared suddenly, i'm guessing because they turned tail and zipped away and down with the wind. A couple of local red-taileds did provide throughway escort several times, including dive-bombing the Golden over Table Mountain and forcing a migrating male Kestrel out of his original path.
Local Female Northern Harrier patrolled the trail low up Matthews-Winters park.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swifts (13), Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay (2), Black-billed Magpie (2), American Crow (6), Common Raven (1), Swallow Sp. (2), Pygmy Nuthatch (2) (could be challenged), Townsend's Solitaire (3) in their favorite spot.
Predictions: TUVUs are on the rise.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Date: 4/8/18 10:16 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] Grandview Cemetery late Sunday 8April2018 (Fort Collins, Larimer)
Late this afternoon (4-6PM) I decided watching the Master's on TV was insufficient exercise and headed to Grandview Cemetery in Fort Collins. It was fairly warm but quite windy. The clouds seemed to be going two different directions and usually such conditions in the right season have potential to produce interesting birds. Today was no exception.
Highlights:
Turkey Vulture (I estimated 80 but this could be 50% low). They swirled this way and that, often just above tree-top level. With low light and a big dark gray storm backdrop to the east, their black and silver figures were quite dramatic, and somehow fitting for a cemetery. My friend Georgia who lives several blocks east of the cemetery reported 100+ vultures last week, most of which will move on, but dozens will probably try to roost in spruce trees all summer as has been their habit for years. Mountain Avenue south along Washington for a few blocks seems to be the epicenter of activity.
Dark-eyed Junco (big influx, with at least 35 feeding voraciously on unknown seeds along the edge of one particular cemetery road bordered by turf. Mostly they were pink-sided with a fair number of slate-colored and just a few Oregon).
Tree Swallow (2 flying straight north together).
Peregrine Falcon (1) Initially alone, it later mixed in with the vultures for a time before disappearing into the neighborhood to the east.
[cid:5b1ca6ab-8a05-43be-9523-ab9776b29f38]
Brown Creepers and Mountain Chickadee still present. Did not see Pygmy Nuthatches today. Still no male Broad-tailed Hummingbirds heard (had one last year in late March).
Total of 21 species.
Other observations: fox squirrels mostly eating flowers of green ash; a few American elm flowers have burst from their buds; peonies sprouts are about 6 inches tall; dandelions flowering.
A Loon was reported on April 7 and 8 at Brush Hollow. It is still in basic plumage. It has been identified as both Pacific Loon and Common Loon. Jerry DeBoer posted photos on his eBird Report for 4/8. Maybe some Loon experts can clarify the identification.
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 14:30:00 Total observation time: 6 hours
Official Counter: Mike Fernandez
Observers:
Visitors: From ~ 11:30-12:30 MST, Pam (longtime Dinosaur Ridge Hawkwatcher), led a group of secondary school teachers taking a continuing education class on raptors through the School of Mines. The group of 12, including Pam, had some excellent preparation and many had prior personal experience. They spent about an hour with eyes on the skies and then Pam had them present their raptor reports on the platform. It was a learning experience for me as well!
Qwahn Kent joined at around noon and stayed till 2:30 MST. Qwahn is a high school senior in Vail and is a passionate birder. He starts at Cornell in the fall with the intention of majoring in ecology. We had great conversations and he gets the protocol. He now has all of our DinoHawk info (via that business card) and is interested in helping us in the future (during spring break?). Qwahn was truly helpful in spotting and identifying raptors. He was in Denver for a track meet with his family and chose to stay over and visit our site while in town.
Weather: Intense sun and wind (again) today, with gusts up to 34 mph, BFT 7 (whole trees in motion; resistance felt walking against the wind; hard to hold the binocs steady).
Raptor Observations: Migrating Raptors: There were a few brief periods of respite from the intense winds when i expected a flood of migrators. But no. Today they were up to (and seemed to prefer, or at least resigned to) the challenge, trying a grueling low height of flight (HOF zero) west of the ridge, pausing suspended in mid air, eye level, for long periods (and great photo ops). Then going up a thermal near our site and soaring oddly, facing west while flying north, swinging south at times, regaining their path. Raptors were all over the place, far west black specks, directly over ridge, east of ridge, west of ridge, high and low. Trying to figure it out. It was a migration in slow motion today. Profiles were atypical, shaped by wind. Hard to tell locals from migrators due to circumnavigation. Often showing up west of ridge at eye level and then suddenly disappear.
Non-Migrating Raptors: Locals showed up west and east of ridge and then disappeared suddenly, i'm guessing because they turned tail and zipped away and down with the wind. A couple of local red-taileds did provide throughway escort several times, including dive-bombing the Golden over Table Mountain and forcing a migrating male Kestrel out of his original path.
Local Female Northern Harrier patrolled the trail low up Matthews-Winters park.
Non-raptor Observations: White-throated Swifts (13), Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay (2), Black-billed Magpie (2), American Crow (6), Common Raven (1), Swallow Sp. (2), Pygmy Nuthatch (2) (could be challenged), Townsend's Solitaire (3) in our favorite spot.
Predictions: TUVUs are on the rise.
======================================================================== Report submitted by Matthew Smith (<matt.smith...>) Dinosaur Ridge - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies information may be found at: http://www.birdconservancy.org/
Site Description: Dinosaur Ridge is the only regularly staffed hawkwatch in Colorado and is the best place in the world to see migrating Ferruginous Hawks. Dinosaur Ridge may be the best place in the country to see the rare dark morph of the Broad-winged Hawk (a few are seen each spring). Hawkwatchers who linger long enough may see resident Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Prairie Falcons, in addition to migrating Swainson's, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks, American Kestrels and Turkey Vultures. Peregrine Falcons and Ferruginous Hawks are uncommon; Northern Goshawk is rare but regular. Non-raptor species include Rock Wren, and sometimes Bushtit, Western Bluebird, Sandhill Crane, White-throated Swift, American White Pelican or Dusky Grouse. Birders are always welcome. The hawkwatch is generally staffed by volunteers from Bird Conservancy of the Rockies from about 9 AM to around 3 PM from March 1st to May 7th.
Directions to site: From exit 259 on I-70 towards Morrison, drive south under freeway and take left into first parking lot, the Stegosaurus lot. Follow small signs from the south side of lot to hawkwatch site. The hike starts heading east on an old two-track and quickly turns south onto a trail on the west side of the ridge. When the trail nears the top of the ridge, turn left, head through the gate, and walk to the clearly-visible, flat area at the crest of the ridge.
Date: 4/8/18 11:58 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Marbled Godwit at Pueblo Res. SWA 4/8
David Chartier found and I also saw a *Marbled Godwit *this morning, for like 20 minutes at the State Wildlife Area, in NW side of Pueblo Reservoir, Pueblo County. This appears to be an early date for the Pueblo Area (by one day). The godwit got up and flew east, and we didn't see it again. We also saw two Common Loons (one in full breeding plumage). The breeding plumage Red-necked Grebe was still present as of April 6th, kind of windy today, when I looked briefly. Other shorebirds we saw today, were Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, American Avocet, Wilson's Snipe and lots of Killdeer. Recently, though not today, Baird's Sandpiper and Long-billed Dowitcher have seen at Pueblo Reservoir SWA. Both Bonaparte's and Franklin's Gulls were around today. I saw Tree, Violet-green, Barn, Cliff, and Bank Swallows today. I saw one Savannah Sparrow in SWA, on third time I was there today. These shorebird places seem to get different birds, off and on all day. Some getting late ducks, were a female Common Goldeneye and a male and female Hooded Mergansers. Breeding plumage Eared and Horned Grebes were around today as well. Lots of other ducks were present around Pueblo Reservoir and the SWA.
Date: 4/8/18 3:06 am From: Joyce Takamine <jabirujt...> Subject: [cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert, 8 April 2018
Compiler: Joyce Takamine
Date: April 8, 2018
e-mail: RBA AT cobirds.org
This is the Rare Bird Alert for Sunday, April 8 sponsored by Denver Field
Ornithologists and the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies.
Highlight species include: (* indicates new information on this species)
NOTE: The RBA is now using the new AOU checklist and the order of families
has changed.
Snow Goose (*Boulder, Garfield, San Miguel)
Ross’s Goose (*Douglas, *Weld)
Greater White-fronted Goose (*Jefferson, Prowers, *Rio Grande, *Weld)
Wood Duck (Montezuma)
Sharp-tailed Grouse (*Weld)
Red-necked Grebe (*Jefferson)
Clark’s Grebe (*Fremont)
Chimney Swift (Boulder)
White-throated Swift (Chaffee, Pueblo)
Broad-tailed Hummingbird (El Paso)
Virginia Rail (Chaffee)
Sandhill Crane (*Jefferson, *Larimer, Mesa, Montezuma, *Rio Grande, *Weld)
Black-necked Stilt (*Weld)
Mountain Plover (El Paso, Lincoln)
Long-billed Curlew (*Boulder, Mesa)
Least Sandpiper (La Plata, *Weld)
Long-billed Dowitcher (El Paso)
Lesser Yellowlegs (El Paso, Jefferson)
Willet (Arapahoe)
Bonaparte’s Gull (Boulder, Chaffee)
Franklin’s Gull (Montezuma)
California Gull (Douglas, Mesa)
Iceland Gull (El Paso, Pueblo)
Glaucous Gull (Washington)
Pacific Loon (*Fremont)
Double-crested Cormornants (*Denver)
American White Pelican (Douglas)
Great Egret (Chaffee, La Plata, *Larimer, Moffat, *Weld)
Snowy Egret (Adams, *Denver)
Little Blue Heron (*Otero)
White-faced Ibis (*Mesa, Rio Grande)
Turkey Vulture (*Boulder, Douglas, Larimer, Mineral)
Northern Goshawk (*Douglas, *Jefferson, Larimer)
Swainson’s Hawk (*Jackson, Jefferson)
Burrowing Owl (*El Paso, Mesa)
Ladder-backed Woodpecker (*El Paso)
Black Phoebe (Fremont, *Mesa)
Eastern Phoebe (*Boulder, *Chaffee, Custer, *Fremont, *Larimer, *Otero)
Vermilion Flycatcher (El Paso)
Western Kingbird (El Paso)
Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay (Adams)
Chihuahuan Raven (*Crowley, Fremont)
Tree Swallow (*Otero)
Violet-green Swallow (Araphoe, *Denver, *Fremont, *Jefferson, *Larimer)
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Arapahoe, *Larimer)
Bank Swallow (*Chaffee, *Larimer, *Otero)
Cliff Swallow (*Chaffee, *Larimer, *Otero)
Barn Swallow (*Broomfield, *Chaffee, *Denver, *Larimer, *Otero)
Mountain Chickadee (*Otero)
Golden-crowned Kinglet (*Denver)
Mountain Bluebird (Lincoln)
Swainson’s Thrush (*Adams)
Hermit Thrush (Adams, *Denver, Lincoln, *Weld)
Gray Catbird (Larimer)
Curve-billed Thrasher (*El Paso, *Fremont)
Sage Thrasher (*Boulder, El Paso)
Northern Mockingbird (Broomfield, El Paso)
American Pipit (*Crowley, Jefferson, Larimer, Lincoln)
Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (San Miguel)
Black Rosy-Finch (San Miguel)
Brown-capped Rosy-Finch (San Miguel)
Chestnut-collared Longspur (El Paso, Lincoln, *Weld)
McCown’s Longspur (El Paso)
Green-tailed Towhee (Jefferson)
Cassin’s Sparrow (El Paso)
Chipping Sparrow (*Yuma)
Vesper Sparrow (*Boulder, *Crowley, *El Paso, Jefferson)
Sagebrush Sparrow (Boulder, *Larimer)
Savannah Sparrow (*Weld)
Lincoln’s Sparrow (*Adams, *Crowley, *Larimer, *Otero, *Weld)
Harris’s Sparrow (*Denver, El Paso, *Weld)
Brown-headed Cowbird Yuma)
Northern Cardinal (Boulder)
ADAMS COUNTY:
---On April 3 at Lowell Ponds (Clear Creek Valley Park), Christy Payne
reported Snowy Egret.
---On April 3 at east Lake Shores Park, Don Mullson reported Woodhouse’s
Scrub-Jay.
---On April 3 at Lake Sangraco, Christy Payne reported Snowy Egret.
---On April 6 at Barr Lake SP, Susan Quinlan reported Hermit Thrush. On
April 7 at Barr Lake SP Niedrach trail and Visitor Center, Brian Johnson
reported Swainson’s Thrush.
---On April 7 at Pond N of Big Dry Creek Park, Matt Hofeditz reported
Lincoln’s Sparrow.
---On April 7 at Metzger Farms OS, Matt Hofeditz reported Lincoln’s Sparrow.
---On April 7 at Mann-Nyholt Lake, Adam Veseley reported Lincoln’s Sparrow.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY:
---On April 6 at South Platte Park, Edward Donnan reported Willet.
---On April 6 at Centennial Park, Art Hudak reported Northern Rough-winged
Swallow and 8 Violet-green Swallows.
BOULDER COUNTY:
---On April 4 at Boulder Reservoir complex Ted Floyd reported 2 Snow Geese,
Bonaparte’s Gull, Sage Thrasher, and Vesper Sparrow; Dan Zmolek and Leslie
S reported 2 Snow Geese and Sage Thrasher. On April 6 at Boulder Reservoir
Complex, David Dowell reported 2 Snow Geese. On April 7 at Boulder
Reservoir Complex Ron Podhajsky, Peter Burke, Kathie Lehman, and David
Haskell, Dan Zmolek, and Leslies S reported 2 Snow Geese, 2 Vesper
Sparrows, and Sage Thrasher and 3 Turkey Vultures.
---On April 4 at Boulder Creek and 75th St, Nancy Ries Morrison and Ted
Floyd reported Eastern Phoebe. On April 5 at Boulder Creek and 75th St,
Gregg Goodrich and Anna Troth reported Eastern Phoebe on both sides of the
bridge. On April 7 at Boulder Creek and 75th St, Emil Yappert and Richard
Trinkner reported Eastern Phoebe; Ernest Crvich reported 2 Eastern Phoebes
at Boulder Creek and 75th St but west of bridge.
---On April 4 at Pella Crossing OS, Carl Starace reported 5 Chimney Swift.
---On April 4 at Melody Park (16th and Kingwood) in Boulder, Bob Fiehweg
reported Northern Cardinal.
---On April 5 at Foothills Community Park North end, Christian Nunes
reported Sagebrush Sparrow and several birders got to see it.
---On April 5 at Twin Lakes, Laura Steadman reported 20 Chimney Swifts.
---On April 5 at Stearns Lake, Ted Floyd reported 2 Snow Geese.
---On April 7 in area around Hwy 66 between N 61st and N 63rd St in
Longmont, Ethan Kistler, Christian Nunes, David Waltman, Dan Zmolek, Leslie
S reported 2 Long-billed Curlews and Peter Burke reported 3 Long-billed
Curlews N of Hwy 66; Willem van Vliet reported 3 Long-billed Curlews on
N63rd West of McCall Lake.
BROOMFIELD COUNTY:
---On April 7 at Plaster Reservoir, Matt Hofeditz reported Barn Swallow.
CHAFFEE COUNTY:
---On April 3 at Buena Vista Ice Pond (view from road), Mike Buccieri
reported Bonaparte’s Gull. On April 4 at Buenta Vista Ice Pond (view from
road), Christian Hagenlocher reported Great Egret and Bonaparte’s Gull.
---On April 4 on CR 367, Christian Hagenlocher reported 2 Barn Swallows.
---On April 5 at Bob’s Rocks, Christian Hagenlocher reported 4
White-throated Swifts.
---On April 7 at Sands Lake SWA, Michael O’Brien and VENT Grouse Tour
reported Bank Swallow, Eastern Phoebe, 20 Cliff Swallows, and 5 Barn
Swallows.
CROWLEY COUNTY:
---On April 7 at Lake Henry, Steve Mlodinow reported Chihuahuan Raven, 3
American Pipits, Vesper Sparrow, and 2 Lincoln’s Sparrows.
CUSTER COUNTY:
---On April 4 in Wetmore Area, Jerry DeBoer reported 2 Eastern Phoebe.
DENVER COUNTY:
---On April 5 at First Creek at DEN OS, John Breitsch reported Harris’s
Sparrow. On April 7 at First Creek at DEN OS, Lorraine Lanning reported
Harris’s Sparrow.
---On April 7 at Denver City Park, Patrick O’Driscoll and DFO Field Trip
reported 4 Snowy Egrets, 445 Double-crested Cormornants and 200 nests, 2
Violet-green Swallows, 3 Barn Swallows and Golden-crowned Kinglet.
---On April 7 at Denver Botanic Gardnes and Cheeseman Park, Rebecca Laroche
reported 2 Golden-crowned Kinglets and Hermit Thrush.
DOUGLAS COUNTY:
---On April 5 at Parker Regional Park (aka Salisbury Equestrian Park), Tim
Ryan reported Ross’s Goose. On April 7 at Parker Regional Park (aka
Salisbury Equestrian Park), Sue Plankis reported Ross’s Goose.
---On April 7 at Roxborough SP, Candice Johnson reported Northern Goshawk.
EL PASO COUNTY:
---On April 5 at Hanover Road, Diane Roberts and her DFO Field Trip
reported pair of Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Curve-billed Thrasher, 2
Burrowing Owls, 4 Sage Thrashers, and 2 Cassins Sparrows. On April 6 on
Hanover Rd on pine tree at oasis, Jim Merritt reported Ladder-backed
Woodpecker; R Knapp reported 2 Western Kingbirds. On April 7 on Hanover
Road Gloria Nikolai reported 3 Curve-billed Thrashers and 2 Burrowing Owls.
---On April 4 at Ramah Reservoir SWA, Cheri Phillips reported Long-billed
Dowitcher.
---On April 3 at Squirrel Creek Road Reservoir, Diane Roberts, Chris Brobin
and Tanja Britton reported Lesser Yellowlegs.
---On April 2 at Hanover Fire Station, Linda Hodges and many other birders
reported m Vermilion Flycatcher and Curve-billed Thrashers, and Cassin’s
Sparrows. On April 3 at Hanover Fire Station, David Tonnessen and several
other birders reported that the Vermilion Flycatcher continues with
Curve-billed Thrashers. On April 4 at Hanover Fire Station, Christy Payne
and several other birders reported Vermilion Flycatcher.
---On April 2 at Chico Basin Ranch on road to banding station, Linda Hodges
reported 4 Sage Thrashers. On April 5 at Chico Basin Ranch (fee area),
Jeannie Mitchell and John Drummond reported 2 Burrowing Owls, 3
Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, and Curve-billed Thrasher; Patraicia Bacchetti
reported Curve-billed Thrasher.
---On April 2 at Hanover Road and De Groot, Linda Hodges reported 4
Burrowing Owls. On April 4 at Hanover Road and De Groot, Rod Schmidt
reported Curve-billed Thrasher.
---On April 2 at Squirrel Creek Rd and Bar O Rd, John Bruder reported 6
Chestnut-Collared Longspurs. On April 2 at Squirrel Creek Rd East, Monday
Birders reported 3 Burrowing Owls and 3 Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 3 on De Groot Rd, Loch Kilpatrick reported 2 Cassin’s
Sparrows. On April 5 at DeGroot Road John Drummond reported Cassin’s
Sparrow.
---On April 3 on Hanover Road, Gregg Goodrich reported 2 Cassin’s
Sparrows. On April 4 on Hanover Road, Cheri Phillips reported 2
Ladder-backed Woodpeckers and Diana Beatty reported Cassin’s Sparrow.
---On April 5 at 19250 Loop Rd Uldrickson Farm, Christine Alexander, Ginny
Bergstrom and Tom Johnson and his Field Guides tour reported Vermilion
Flycatcher.
---On April 5 at Hanover Fire Station, Jeannie Mitchell and John Drumond
reported Cassin’s Sparrow.
---On April 5 on Birdsall Road, Jim Merrit reported Curve-billed Thasher.
---On April 5 at Blair Bridge OS, Joy Lake reported Broad-tailed
Hummingbird.
---On April 6 on Sanborn Rd near Yoder, David Tonnessen reported 4 McCown’s
Longspur and Vesper Sparrow.
---On April 7 on Loop Road, Riley Morris reported 2 Curve-billed Thrashers.
---On April 76 on S Meridian Road Hanover Rd to Pueblo County Line, Roger
Massey, reported Ladder-backed Woodpecker and Vesper Sparrow.
FREMONT COUNTY:
---On April 2, SeEtta Moss reported Black Phoebe at Florence River Park,
MacKenzie Ave Bridge in Canon City, Sell’s Lake in Canon City.
---On April 3, SeEtta Moss reported 2 Eastern Phoebe at Tunnel Drive Rd in
Canon City, and 2 Eastern Phoebe at Sell’s Lake Trailhead to Canon City
Riverwalk.
---On April 7 at Brush Hollow, Cheryl Teuton and Norm Erthal reported basic
plumaged Pacific Loon; Erthal reported Clark’s Grebe and Chihuahuan Raven;
DeBoer reported Curve-billed Thrasher.
---On April 7 at Canon City Valco Pond, Jerry DeBoer reported 4
Violet-green Swallows and Eastern Phoebe.
GARFIELD COUNTY:
---On April 3 at Ponds near Rifle Garfield Airport (view from road), JoAnn
Riggle reported 2 Snow Geese.
JACKSON COUNTY:
---On April 7 on Hwy 14 S of Coalmont, Mike Buccieri reported Swainson’s
Hawk.
JEFFERSON COUNTY:
---On April 3 at Wheat Ridge Greenbelt Prospect Park and Lake, Tuesday
Birders and Matt Clark reported 2-3 Lesser Yellowlegs and 100 Sandhill
Cranes. On April 4 at Wheat Ridge Greenbelt Prospect Park and Lake, Ginny
Bergstrom reported 3 Lesser Yellowlegs.
---On April 3 at Bear Creek Lake Park at Pelican Point, Mark Chavez and
Myron Gerhard reported Vesper Sparrow. On April 6 at Bear Creek Lake Park,
Mark Chavez reported American Pipit.
---On April 4 on Kipling going north, north of Ridge Rd, Anne Price
reported Swainson’s Hawk.
---On April 5 at Ken Caryl Cathy Johnson Trail, David Suddjian reported
Green-tailed Towhee.
---On April 7 at Chatfield SP, Susan Blansett reported 6 Violet-green
Swallows flying over the South Platte River.
---On April 7 at Maxwell Falls Lower Trail, Shayna Wieferich reported
Northern Goshawk and 2 Sandhill Cranes.
---On April 7 at Ralston creek trail thru west Woods Golf Course, John
Shunk reported Greater White-fronted Goose.
---On April 7 at Coors Ponds, Bruce Snyder reported Red-necked Grebe.
LA PLATA COUNTY:
---On April 3 at Pastoroius Reservoir, Jason St. Pierre reported Least
Sandpiper. On April 6 at Pastorius Reservoir, Susan Allerton reported
Least Sandpiper and Great Egret; Ryan Votta reported Great Egret.
LARIMER COUNTY:
---On April 5 at Arapahoe Bend NA Rigden Reservoir (Strauss Cabin Lake),
Walter Wehtje reported 4 Barn Swallows and 2 Cliff Swallows. On April 6
at Arapahoe Bend NA Rigden Reservoir (Strauss Cabin Lake), Lori Zabel
reported Barn Swallow, 2 Vesper Sparrows, and 12 American Pipits. On April
7 at Arapahoe Bend NA Rigden Reservoir (Strauss Cabin Lake), Christine and
Richard Sparks, John Shenot, Brandon Nooner, Heather Shirley, and Eva
Matthews Lark reported 20 Sandhill Cranes, Violet-green Swallow, Northern
Rough-winged Swallow, Bank Swallows, Cliff Swallows, and Barn Swallows.
---On April 5 at Lee Martinez Park, Ethan Kistler reported 125 Turkey
Vultures from 0900 and Gray Catbird.
---On April 7 at CSU Environmental Learning Center riparian area upstream
of dam, Lori Zabel reported Eastern Phoebe.
---On April 7 at Bobcat Ridge NA, Skyler Bol reported Sagebrush Sparrow,
and Lincoln’s Sparrow.
LINCOLN COUNTY:
---On April 6 on CR S near Karval, David Tonnessen reported American Pipit
and 8 Chestnut-collared Longspur.
---On April 6 on CR T near Karval, David Tonnessen reported 14 Mountain
Plover and Mountain Bluebird.
---On April 6 in Karval (town), David Tonnessen reported Hermit Thrush.
---On April 7 at Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary, Ethan Kistler reported
Great Egret.
MESA COUNTY:
---On April 7 at Horsethief Canyon SWA, Carol Ortenzio and Katey Buster
reported Black Phoebe.
---On April 6 at Highline Lake SP, Kathleen McGinley and Mike Henwood
reported White-faced Ibis and 2 Sandhill Cranes.
---On April 6 at Brewster Ridge, Mike Henwood reported 5 Long-billed Curlew.
---On April 6 on old Us Hwy 6 & 50 2 8/10 Rd N, Mike Henwood and Kathleen
McGinley reported Burrowing Owl.
---On April 7 at Shiprock Pond, Nic Korte reported 3 White-faced Ibis.
MINERAL COUNTY:
---On April 5 at West Fork Rd, Ben Bailey reported 2 Turkey Vultures. West
Fork Rd is at mm158 on north Hwy 160.
MOFFAT COUNTY:
---On April 5 at Moffat County Road Dept Ponds, John Vaderpoel reported
Great Egret.
MONTEZUMA COUNTY:
---On April 5 at Totten Lake, Glenn Dunmire reported 2 Sandhill Cranes and
6 Franklin’s Gulls.
---On April 5 at Centennial Park pond in Cortez, Glenn Dunmire reported
pair of Wood Ducks.
OTERO COUNTY:
---On April 6 at Holbrook Reservoir, Tom Johnson and his Field Guides
Grouse Tour reported Little Blue Heron, 2 Tree Swallows, 2 Bank Swallows,
and 6 Barn Swallows. On April 7 at Lake Holbrook east side outflow, Janeal
Thompson reported Little Blue Heron.
---On April 7 at Rocky Ford Dike, Steve Mlodinow reported 30 Tree Swallows,
2 Bank Swallows, 80 Barn Swallows, and 8 Cliff Swallows.
---On April 7 at Rocky Ford SWA Ryans Ponds, Steve Mlodinow reported 2
Eastern Phoebe, 2 Mountain Chickadees and Lincoln’s Sparrow.
PROWERS COUNTY:
---On April 4 at Northgate, Jane Stulp reported 2 Greater White-fronted
Geese.
RIO GRANDE COUNTY:
---On April 4 at Monte Vista NWR, Dale Pate reported 2 White-faced Ibis and
400 Sandhill Cranes.
SAN MIGUEL COUNTY:
---On April 4 at The Terraces, Eric Hynes reported 1 Gray-crowned
(Hepburn’s) Rosy-Finch, 4 Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch, 6 Black Rosy-Finch, and
140 Brown-capped Rosy-Finch.
---On April 6 at Hwy 145 and 44Z S Road, George Steele reported Snow Goose.
WASHINGTON COUNTY:
---On April 4 at Prewitt Reservoir, Norm Erthal reported Glaucous Gull.
WELD COUNTY:
---On April 7 at ponds west of CR 41 N of CR 46, Sharon Kay reported Great
Egret, 3 Black-necked Stilits, and 12 Sandhill Cranes across the road.
---On April 7 at CR 1376 W of CR 105, James Holmes reported Sharp-tailed
Grouse, Savannah Sparrow, and 8 Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
---On April 7 at CR 111 and CR 134, James Holmes reported 3 Sharp-tailed
Grouse.
---On April 7 at Briggsdale (town) at corner of Main and 5th Ave, James
Holmes reported Harris’s Sparrow.
---On April 7 at Clark Lake, James Holmes reported 4 Ross’s Geese, and 4
Greater White-fronted Geese.
---On April 7 at Behren Reservoir area, Renee Casias and David Dowell
reported Least Sandpiper.
---On April 7 at Crow Valley Campground, David Dowell and Georgiah Hartman
reported Hermit Thrush and 2 Lincoln’s Sparrows.
--- On April 7 at CR 136 and CR 111 Georgiah Hartman reported Sharp-tailed
Grouse; at CR 111 and CR 134, Matt Clark reported 2 Sharp-tailed Grouse.
YUMA COUNTY:
---On April 7 at Wray, Bill Kaempfer reported Chipping Sparrow.
DFO Field Trips:
The DFO Field Trip for Sunday, April 8 will be to Cherry Creek SP Wetlands
Loop led by Karen von Saltza and Bill Wuerthle (kvonsaltza AT yahoo.com;
303-941-4881) Meet at 0800 at Prairie Loop lot in Cherry Creek SP. From
either park entrance, followLake View Rod to the Prarie Loop that is
locataed at the south rim of the reservoir. State Parks pass or day pass
required.
This is a half day of walking that passes through most of the important
habitats found in the park over a distance of about 3.5 miles. Trails
could be slippery or muddy. Bring water and snacks; lunch is optional.
Beginning birders are welcome. Register online or contact leader.
The DFO Field Trip for Monday, April 9 will be to Southwest Metro Area
Ponds and Lakes led by David Suddjian (dsuddjian At gmail.com;
831-713-8659) This trip is FULL.
