Date: 2/14/25 1:34 pm From: Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io <jenniferocoulson...> Subject: [labird] Tuesday: Chloe St. Germain-Vermillion talks about Coastal Bird Surveys
Dear LABIRD,
All are welcome to attend the Orleans Audubon Society's February meeting
and lecture. I thought this topic would be of particular interest! --
Jennifer Coulson, OAS President
*Audubon Coastal Bird Surveys in Louisiana* Speaker: Chloe St.
Germain-Vermillion
Tuesday, February 18
6:30 p.m. social, 7:00 p.m. program
Community Church Unitarian Universalist, 6690 Fleur de Lis (Lakeview) in
New Orleans.
Chloe St. Germain-Vermillion is Audubon Delta’s Coastal Bird Technician, an
Orleans Audubon Society Board Member, and a Committee Member for the
Louisiana Bird Records Committee. Working primarily in Southeastern
Louisiana, Chloe has been monitoring coastal populations of breeding Least
Terns, Common Nighthawks, and Wilson’s Plovers for the past 3 years. She is
also responsible for coordinating the Audubon Coastal Bird Survey in
Louisiana and running the New Orleans Rooftop-Nesting Bird Program in
partnership with Orleans Audubon Society.
The Audubon Coastal Bird Survey (ACBS) provides scientists with valuable
data for addressing conservation needs of coastal waterbirds and shorebirds
along the Gulf Coast. As Audubon Delta’s Coastal Bird Technician for
Louisiana, Chloe is responsible for conducting and coordinating these
surveys in coastal Louisiana during the spring, fall and winter. During
this presentation, you will discover what it takes to conduct a coastal
bird survey, learn some shorebird ID tips, and find out how you can become
involved as a volunteer surveyor!
Date: 2/13/25 3:46 pm From: John Conover via groups.io <jconover...> Subject: [labird] Ferruginous Hawk
Bird was still present along Thibodaux Bypass Road at 5pm today.
Best,
- j
************************************************************** John Conover Associate Director of Library and Information Sciences LUMCON Library Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium 8124 Highway 56 Chauvin, LA 70344 (985) 851-2875 **************************************************************
Date: 2/13/25 6:52 am From: Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Dear fellow naturalists ,
For anyone interested in showing your support of the Stamms and the Purple
Martins and /or want to add any additional information regarding this
issue, the emails of the city council ( there are 5) are on the city
website (harahanla.gov/city-council ) and Mayor's email is:
<tim.baudier...> . Any comment large or small will help. Sorry
so much effort and time has to go into this ridiculous lawsuit. It's a
good thing I have tolerant neighbors because my live oak has dumped a
million acorns into his pool this winter, or I would be facing a complaint
and would have to cut down my Live Oak!
Thank you again,
Cathy DiSalvo
Harahan LA
On Wed, Feb 12, 2025 at 7:57 PM joan garvey <joanmgarvey1...> wrote:
> Wow!!!
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Feb 12, 2025, at 4:58 PM, David P. Muth via groups.io <muthdp=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >
> > FYI due to an Audubon Action Alert in December the mayor of Harahan
> > received more than 3,000 emails
> >
> >> On Wed, Feb 12, 2025, 3:48 PM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
> >> <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >>
> >> I think that could only help . I ll touch base with Mr Wilson and
> respond
> >> back . And thank you Van for input, excellent points that need
> addressing .
> >>>> On Feb 12, 2025, at 2:56 PM, sandabar10 <sandabar10...> wrote:
> >>>
> >>> I can't go to the hearings but like Mac Myers I will write, too, if
> >> that would help. If so, who can supporters write to and where? Would
> >> letters from supporters elsewhere in the country help?
> >>> Sandra
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> -------- Original message --------
> >>> From: "Mac Myers via groups.io" <budogmacm...>
> >>> Date: 2/11/25 10:09 AM (GMT-06:00)
> >>> To: <cedisalvo1...>
> >>> Cc: <seejanebird...>, <jenniferocoulson...>, LABIRD LABIRD <
> >> <labird...>
> >>> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
> >>>
> >>> Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
> >>>
> >>> Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
> >>> reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
> >>> heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government
> body
> >> is
> >>> responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many
> of
> >>> us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
> >>> overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
> >>> boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
> >>>
> >>> Mac
> >>>
> >>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io
> <cedisalvo1=
> >>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending
> >> the
> >>>> Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at
> >> the
> >>>> trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently
> >> putting
> >>>> up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
> >>>>
> >>>> Thanks to All
> >>>> Cathy DiSalvo
> >>>> Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
> >>>>
> >>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io
> >> <seejanebird=
> >>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >>>>
> >>>>> Jenn,
> >>>>>
> >>>>> Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
> >>>> garden
> >>>>> club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but
> >> not
> >>>>> all of them were aware of the issue.
> >>>>>
> >>>>> Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple
> >> Martins
> >>>>> are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will
> >> they
> >>>>> find housing this year?
> >>>>>
> >>>>> —Jane Patterson
> >>>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via
> >> groups.io
> >>>>> <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
> >>>>>
> >>>>>> Dear LABIRD,
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
> >>>> hearing
> >>>>>> in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation
> >> Chair,
> >>>>> Andrew
> >>>>>> Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with
> >> the
> >>>>>> argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post
> >> Facto
> >>>>>> Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
> >>>> passing
> >>>>>> laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal
> >> when
> >>>>> they
> >>>>>> were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with
> >> the
> >>>>>> "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
> >>>> their
> >>>>>> neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
> >>>>> health
> >>>>>> hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
> >>>> bewildering
> >>>>>> because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird
> >> sanctuary.
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
> >>>> hearing
> >>>>>> and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
> >>>>> ranged
> >>>>>> from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard
> >> birds,
> >>>>>> gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
> >>>> that
> >>>>> he
> >>>>>> delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city
> >> time
> >>>> to
> >>>>>> respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m.,
> >> with
> >>>> the
> >>>>>> trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
> >>>>>> dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
> >>>>> attend.
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> Sincerely,
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> Jennifer Coulson
> >>>>>> OAS President
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
Date: 2/12/25 5:57 pm From: joan garvey via groups.io <joanmgarvey1...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Wow!!!
> On Feb 12, 2025, at 4:58 PM, David P. Muth via groups.io <muthdp...> wrote:
>
> FYI due to an Audubon Action Alert in December the mayor of Harahan
> received more than 3,000 emails
>
>> On Wed, Feb 12, 2025, 3:48 PM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>> I think that could only help . I ll touch base with Mr Wilson and respond
>> back . And thank you Van for input, excellent points that need addressing .
>>>> On Feb 12, 2025, at 2:56 PM, sandabar10 <sandabar10...> wrote:
>>>
>>> I can't go to the hearings but like Mac Myers I will write, too, if
>> that would help. If so, who can supporters write to and where? Would
>> letters from supporters elsewhere in the country help?
>>> Sandra
>>>
>>>
>>> -------- Original message --------
>>> From: "Mac Myers via groups.io" <budogmacm...>
>>> Date: 2/11/25 10:09 AM (GMT-06:00)
>>> To: <cedisalvo1...>
>>> Cc: <seejanebird...>, <jenniferocoulson...>, LABIRD LABIRD <
>> <labird...>
>>> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
>>>
>>> Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
>>>
>>> Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
>>> reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
>>> heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body
>> is
>>> responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many of
>>> us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
>>> overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
>>> boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
>>>
>>> Mac
>>>
>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>>> Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending
>> the
>>>> Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at
>> the
>>>> trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently
>> putting
>>>> up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
>>>>
>>>> Thanks to All
>>>> Cathy DiSalvo
>>>> Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
>>>>
>>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io
>> <seejanebird=
>>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> Jenn,
>>>>>
>>>>> Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
>>>> garden
>>>>> club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but
>> not
>>>>> all of them were aware of the issue.
>>>>>
>>>>> Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple
>> Martins
>>>>> are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will
>> they
>>>>> find housing this year?
>>>>>
>>>>> —Jane Patterson
>>>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via
>> groups.io
>>>>> <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>> Dear LABIRD,
>>>>>>
>>>>>> *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
>>>>>>
>>>>>> UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
>>>> hearing
>>>>>> in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation
>> Chair,
>>>>> Andrew
>>>>>> Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with
>> the
>>>>>> argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post
>> Facto
>>>>>> Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
>>>> passing
>>>>>> laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal
>> when
>>>>> they
>>>>>> were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with
>> the
>>>>>> "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
>>>> their
>>>>>> neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
>>>>> health
>>>>>> hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
>>>> bewildering
>>>>>> because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird
>> sanctuary.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
>>>> hearing
>>>>>> and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
>>>>> ranged
>>>>>> from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard
>> birds,
>>>>>> gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
>>>> that
>>>>> he
>>>>>> delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city
>> time
>>>> to
>>>>>> respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m.,
>> with
>>>> the
>>>>>> trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
>>>>>> dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
>>>>> attend.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Sincerely,
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Jennifer Coulson
>>>>>> OAS President
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/12/25 2:58 pm From: David P. Muth via groups.io <muthdp...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
FYI due to an Audubon Action Alert in December the mayor of Harahan
received more than 3,000 emails
On Wed, Feb 12, 2025, 3:48 PM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> I think that could only help . I ll touch base with Mr Wilson and respond
> back . And thank you Van for input, excellent points that need addressing .
> > On Feb 12, 2025, at 2:56 PM, sandabar10 <sandabar10...> wrote:
> >
> > I can't go to the hearings but like Mac Myers I will write, too, if
> that would help. If so, who can supporters write to and where? Would
> letters from supporters elsewhere in the country help?
> > Sandra
> >
> >
> > -------- Original message --------
> > From: "Mac Myers via groups.io" <budogmacm...>
> > Date: 2/11/25 10:09 AM (GMT-06:00)
> > To: <cedisalvo1...>
> > Cc: <seejanebird...>, <jenniferocoulson...>, LABIRD LABIRD <
> <labird...>
> > Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
> >
> > Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
> >
> > Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
> > reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
> > heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body
> is
> > responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many of
> > us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
> > overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
> > boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
> >
> > Mac
> >
> > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
> > <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >
> > > Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending
> the
> > > Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at
> the
> > > trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently
> putting
> > > up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
> > >
> > > Thanks to All
> > > Cathy DiSalvo
> > > Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
> > >
> > > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io
> <seejanebird=
> > > <gmail.com...> wrote:
> > >
> > > > Jenn,
> > > >
> > > > Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
> > > garden
> > > > club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but
> not
> > > > all of them were aware of the issue.
> > > >
> > > > Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple
> Martins
> > > > are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will
> they
> > > > find housing this year?
> > > >
> > > > —Jane Patterson
> > > > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via
> groups.io
> > > > <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > > Dear LABIRD,
> > > > >
> > > > > *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
> > > > >
> > > > > UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
> > > > >
> > > > > Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
> > > hearing
> > > > > in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation
> Chair,
> > > > Andrew
> > > > > Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with
> the
> > > > > argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post
> Facto
> > > > > Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
> > > passing
> > > > > laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal
> when
> > > > they
> > > > > were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with
> the
> > > > > "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
> > > their
> > > > > neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
> > > > health
> > > > > hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
> > > bewildering
> > > > > because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird
> sanctuary.
> > > > >
> > > > > Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
> > > hearing
> > > > > and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
> > > > ranged
> > > > > from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard
> birds,
> > > > > gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
> > > > >
> > > > > The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
> > > that
> > > > he
> > > > > delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city
> time
> > > to
> > > > > respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m.,
> with
> > > the
> > > > > trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
> > > > > dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
> > > > attend.
> > > > >
> > > > > Sincerely,
> > > > >
> > > > > Jennifer Coulson
> > > > > OAS President
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/12/25 1:49 pm From: Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
I think that could only help . I ll touch base with Mr Wilson and respond back . And thank you Van for input, excellent points that need addressing .
> On Feb 12, 2025, at 2:56 PM, sandabar10 <sandabar10...> wrote:
>
> I can't go to the hearings but like Mac Myers I will write, too, if that would help. If so, who can supporters write to and where? Would letters from supporters elsewhere in the country help?
> Sandra
>
>
> -------- Original message --------
> From: "Mac Myers via groups.io" <budogmacm...>
> Date: 2/11/25 10:09 AM (GMT-06:00)
> To: <cedisalvo1...>
> Cc: <seejanebird...>, <jenniferocoulson...>, LABIRD LABIRD <labird...>
> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
>
> Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
>
> Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
> reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
> heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body is
> responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many of
> us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
> overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
> boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
>
> Mac
>
> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
> > Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending the
> > Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at the
> > trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently putting
> > up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
> >
> > Thanks to All
> > Cathy DiSalvo
> > Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
> >
> > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io <seejanebird=
> > <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >
> > > Jenn,
> > >
> > > Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
> > garden
> > > club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not
> > > all of them were aware of the issue.
> > >
> > > Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple Martins
> > > are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will they
> > > find housing this year?
> > >
> > > —Jane Patterson
> > > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io
> > > <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
> > >
> > > > Dear LABIRD,
> > > >
> > > > *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
> > > >
> > > > UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
> > > >
> > > > Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
> > hearing
> > > > in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair,
> > > Andrew
> > > > Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
> > > > argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
> > > > Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
> > passing
> > > > laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when
> > > they
> > > > were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
> > > > "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
> > their
> > > > neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
> > > health
> > > > hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
> > bewildering
> > > > because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
> > > >
> > > > Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
> > hearing
> > > > and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
> > > ranged
> > > > from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard birds,
> > > > gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
> > > >
> > > > The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
> > that
> > > he
> > > > delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city time
> > to
> > > > respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with
> > the
> > > > trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
> > > > dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
> > > attend.
> > > >
> > > > Sincerely,
> > > >
> > > > Jennifer Coulson
> > > > OAS President
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/12/25 12:56 pm From: Sandra Barbier via groups.io <sandabar10...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
I can't go to the hearings but like Mac Myers I will write, too, if that would help. If so, who can supporters write to and where? Would letters from supporters elsewhere in the country help? Sandra -------- Original message --------From: "Mac Myers via groups.io" <budogmacm...> Date: 2/11/25 10:09 AM (GMT-06:00) To: <cedisalvo1...> Cc: <seejanebird...>, <jenniferocoulson...>, LABIRD LABIRD <labird...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out areminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this beingheard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body isresponsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many ofus would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregiousoverreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'llboycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.MacOn Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1...> wrote:> Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending the> Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at the> trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently putting> up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.>> Thanks to All> Cathy DiSalvo> Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io <seejanebird=> <gmail.com...> wrote:>> > Jenn,> >> > Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the> garden> > club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not> > all of them were aware of the issue.> >> > Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple Martins> > are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will they> > find housing this year?> >> > —Jane Patterson> > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io> > <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:> >> > > Dear LABIRD,> > >> > > *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*> > >> > > UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case> > >> > > Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case> hearing> > > in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair,> > Andrew> > > Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the> > > argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto> > > Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from> passing> > > laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when> > they> > > were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the> > > "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because> their> > > neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human> > health> > > hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is> bewildering> > > because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.> > >> > > Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the> hearing> > > and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd> > ranged> > > from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard birds,> > > gardeners and nature enthusiasts.> > >> > > The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so> that> > he> > > delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city time> to> > > respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with> the> > > trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not> > > dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to> > attend.> > >> > > Sincerely,> > >> > > Jennifer Coulson> > > OAS President> > >> > >> > >> > >> > >> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>> >>>
Date: 2/12/25 11:21 am From: James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
LABIRD: it’s great to see everyone going to bat for the martins.
For those on the front line, I’m sure you’re using this in the arguments but just in case … with many thousands of people maintaining Martin boxes in the USA, has there ever been a documented case of the Martins causing a health issue with an owner? Those are the people in most frequent contact with potential problems caused by the excrement, not the neighbors. Also, how many cases are there of heath issues known to have been caused by contact with feces of wild birds in general? It seems to me, naively, that burden-of-proof is on those who would designate PUMA colonies as a health hazard, especially in comparison to other wild birds. I’ll bet the local Mockingbird generates more poop in their yard than the fly-over Purple Martins.
Also, those feces provide free nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the surroundings, including even the beloved lawns.
Also, for those who just don’t like “bugs”, Purple Martins provide free organic bug control. I’m sure there are data on how many flying insects one PUMA consumes per day, which might be useful to include in the public records. Obviously, this is not a point that resonates with people on our LABIRD forum, but in the eyes of the non-ecological-thinking general public, it might.
===================
Dr. J. V. Remsen
Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
najames<at>LSU.edu
> On Feb 12, 2025, at 12:13 PM, Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1...> wrote:
>
> [You don't often get email from <cedisalvo1...> Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
>
> Jennifer and All
>
> I confirmed with Andrew that the hearing is set for March 10 and the trail
> is set for March 12 both at Harahan City Hall 6437 Jefferson Hwy ,
> Harahan. 5:00pm
>
> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 10:09 AM Mac Myers <budogmacm...> wrote:
>
>> Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
>>
>> Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
>> reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
>> heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body is
>> responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many of
>> us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
>> overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
>> boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
>>
>> Mac
>>
>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>>> Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending the
>>> Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at the
>>> trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently putting
>>> up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
>>>
>>> Thanks to All
>>> Cathy DiSalvo
>>> Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
>>>
>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io
>>> <seejanebird=
>>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>>
>>>> Jenn,
>>>>
>>>> Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
>>> garden
>>>> club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not
>>>> all of them were aware of the issue.
>>>>
>>>> Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple
>>> Martins
>>>> are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will
>>> they
>>>> find housing this year?
>>>>
>>>> —Jane Patterson
>>>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io
>>>> <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> Dear LABIRD,
>>>>>
>>>>> *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
>>>>>
>>>>> UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
>>>>>
>>>>> Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
>>> hearing
>>>>> in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair,
>>>> Andrew
>>>>> Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
>>>>> argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
>>>>> Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
>>> passing
>>>>> laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when
>>>> they
>>>>> were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
>>>>> "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
>>> their
>>>>> neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
>>>> health
>>>>> hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
>>> bewildering
>>>>> because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
>>>>>
>>>>> Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
>>> hearing
>>>>> and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
>>>> ranged
>>>>> from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard
>>> birds,
>>>>> gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
>>>>>
>>>>> The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
>>> that
>>>> he
>>>>> delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city
>>> time to
>>>>> respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with
>>> the
>>>>> trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
>>>>> dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
>>>> attend.
>>>>>
>>>>> Sincerely,
>>>>>
>>>>> Jennifer Coulson
>>>>> OAS President
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/12/25 10:13 am From: Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Jennifer and All
I confirmed with Andrew that the hearing is set for March 10 and the trail
is set for March 12 both at Harahan City Hall 6437 Jefferson Hwy ,
Harahan. 5:00pm
On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 10:09 AM Mac Myers <budogmacm...> wrote:
> Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
>
> Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
> reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
> heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body is
> responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many of
> us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
> overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
> boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
>
> Mac
>
> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending the
>> Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at the
>> trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently putting
>> up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
>>
>> Thanks to All
>> Cathy DiSalvo
>> Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
>>
>> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io
>> <seejanebird=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>> > Jenn,
>> >
>> > Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
>> garden
>> > club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not
>> > all of them were aware of the issue.
>> >
>> > Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple
>> Martins
>> > are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will
>> they
>> > find housing this year?
>> >
>> > —Jane Patterson
>> > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io
>> > <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
>> >
>> > > Dear LABIRD,
>> > >
>> > > *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
>> > >
>> > > UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
>> > >
>> > > Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
>> hearing
>> > > in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair,
>> > Andrew
>> > > Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
>> > > argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
>> > > Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
>> passing
>> > > laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when
>> > they
>> > > were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
>> > > "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
>> their
>> > > neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
>> > health
>> > > hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
>> bewildering
>> > > because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
>> > >
>> > > Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
>> hearing
>> > > and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
>> > ranged
>> > > from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard
>> birds,
>> > > gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
>> > >
>> > > The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
>> that
>> > he
>> > > delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city
>> time to
>> > > respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with
>> the
>> > > trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
>> > > dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
>> > attend.
>> > >
>> > > Sincerely,
>> > >
>> > > Jennifer Coulson
>> > > OAS President
>> > >
>> > >
>> > >
>> > >
>> > >
>> > >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
Date: 2/11/25 8:09 am From: Mac Myers via groups.io <budogmacm...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Jenn, Jane, Cathy, et al.,
Thanks for the update on this idiotic litigation. Please send out a
reminder about any future hearings or trials. Also, where is this being
heard or tried--in a Harahan municipal court or ??? What government body is
responsible for this absurd law or interpretation of law? I think many of
us would be glad to write to them expressing outrage at this egregious
overreach of government, at the same time letting them know that we'll
boycott all Harahan businesses if they go forward with this.
Mac
On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 8:30 AM Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending the
> Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at the
> trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently putting
> up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
>
> Thanks to All
> Cathy DiSalvo
> Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
>
> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io <seejanebird=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
> > Jenn,
> >
> > Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the
> garden
> > club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not
> > all of them were aware of the issue.
> >
> > Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple Martins
> > are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will they
> > find housing this year?
> >
> > —Jane Patterson
> > On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io
> > <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
> >
> > > Dear LABIRD,
> > >
> > > *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
> > >
> > > UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
> > >
> > > Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case
> hearing
> > > in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair,
> > Andrew
> > > Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
> > > argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
> > > Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from
> passing
> > > laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when
> > they
> > > were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
> > > "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because
> their
> > > neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
> > health
> > > hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is
> bewildering
> > > because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
> > >
> > > Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the
> hearing
> > > and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
> > ranged
> > > from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard birds,
> > > gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
> > >
> > > The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so
> that
> > he
> > > delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city time
> to
> > > respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with
> the
> > > trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
> > > dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
> > attend.
> > >
> > > Sincerely,
> > >
> > > Jennifer Coulson
> > > OAS President
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/11/25 6:30 am From: Cathy DiSalvo via groups.io <cedisalvo1...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Thank you Jennifer for update and Mr Wilson for diligently defending the
Stamm's and the Martins. It is very important for a show of force at the
trial on March 10. ( if there is one). The Stamm's are currently putting
up their Martin houses and several Martins have already arrived.
Thanks to All
Cathy DiSalvo
Harahan resident and neighbor to Stamms.
On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:23 AM Jane Patterson via groups.io <seejanebird=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Jenn,
>
> Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the garden
> club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not
> all of them were aware of the issue.
>
> Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple Martins
> are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will they
> find housing this year?
>
> —Jane Patterson
> On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io
> <jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
>
> > Dear LABIRD,
> >
> > *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
> >
> > UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
> >
> > Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case hearing
> > in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair,
> Andrew
> > Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
> > argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
> > Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from passing
> > laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when
> they
> > were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
> > "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because their
> > neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human
> health
> > hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is bewildering
> > because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
> >
> > Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the hearing
> > and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd
> ranged
> > from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard birds,
> > gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
> >
> > The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so that
> he
> > delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city time to
> > respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with the
> > trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
> > dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to
> attend.
> >
> > Sincerely,
> >
> > Jennifer Coulson
> > OAS President
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/11/25 5:23 am From: Jane Patterson via groups.io <seejanebird...> Subject: Re: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Jenn,
Thanks for the update. I actually spoke to a group of ladies in the garden
club in Harahan yesterday. They live in the Stamm’s neighborhood but not
all of them were aware of the issue.
Question: what is the status of the colony at this point? Purple Martins
are starting to return and will no doubt return to the Stamm’s. Will they
find housing this year?
—Jane Patterson
On Tue, Feb 11, 2025 at 7:17 AM Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io
<jenniferocoulson...> wrote:
> Dear LABIRD,
>
> *Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
>
> UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
>
> Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case hearing
> in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair, Andrew
> Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
> argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
> Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from passing
> laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when they
> were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
> "crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because their
> neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human health
> hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is bewildering
> because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
>
> Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the hearing
> and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd ranged
> from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard birds,
> gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
>
> The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so that he
> delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city time to
> respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with the
> trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
> dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to attend.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Jennifer Coulson
> OAS President
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 2/11/25 5:17 am From: Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io <jenniferocoulson...> Subject: [labird] Update on Harahan's Purple Martin "nuisance" case
Dear LABIRD,
*Thank you to those of you who attended the hearing last night!*
UPDATE on Harahan’s Purple Martin "Nuisance" Case
Breaking news ... last night at the Purple Martin "nuisance" case hearing
in Harahan, attorney and Orleans Audubon Society Conservation Chair, Andrew
Wilson, presented motions to dismiss. The judge was impressed with the
argument that the case should be dismissed based on the Ex Post Facto
Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits governments from passing
laws that retroactively punish people for actions that were legal when they
were committed. A retired couple in Harahan is being charged with the
"crime" of keeping Purple Martin houses in their backyard, because their
neighbor has declared the martins to be a public nuisance and human health
hazard. The fact that this case is being considered at all is bewildering
because Harahan has officially declared itself to be a bird sanctuary.
Concerned citizens turned out in droves last night to attend the hearing
and show their support for Purple Martins and the Stamms. The crowd ranged
from Harahan residents to bird watchers, folks who feed backyard birds,
gardeners and nature enthusiasts.
The judge considered Mr. Wilson's argument a strong one, so much so that he
delayed the hearing and trial dates by one month, giving the city time to
respond. The hearing is now set for Monday, March 10, 5:00 p.m., with the
trial to follow on Wednesday, March 125:00 p.m., if the case is not
dismissed. OAS hopes that you will mark your calendars and plan to attend.
Date: 2/5/25 7:55 am From: Katie Percy via groups.io <katiepercy...> Subject: [labird] BRAS Program - Wed, Feb 26 @ EBR Parish Main Library
Please mark your calendars for the next program hosted by the Baton Rouge
Audubon Society.
PROGRAM TITLE: Great Bird Books
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
Danny Heitman surveyed publications to come up with a "Great Bird Books"
collection to review in this program for the Baton Rouge Audubon Society.
His categories include books about ornithology, the joy of birds and
nature, bird art, and of course, the world’s most famous bird artist, John
James Audubon. Mr. Heitman is no stranger to this subject matter having
authored “A Summer of Birds: John James Audubon at Oakley House,” among
countless other nature based columns and award winning editorials and
essays. To read more about Mr. Heitman and to access some of his great
work, please visit dannyheitman.com.
PRESENTER: Danny Heitman, magazine editor, columnist, author, and cultural
commentator for national publications.
LOCATION: East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library on Goodwood Blvd; Room 102
(first floor)
DATE: Wednesday, February 26th
TIME: 7:00 - 8:00 PM (in-person social 6:30-7:00)
Although we encourage everyone to attend in person, we do still offer a
virtual option via Zoom.
Date: 2/4/25 7:39 am From: Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io <jenniferocoulson...> Subject: [labird] Orleans Audubon birding trip to Grand Isle changed to Bayou Sauvage!
Dear LABIRD,
The Orleans Audubon Society birding trip location scheduled for this
Saturday has been changed from Grand Isle to the Bayou Sauvage National
Wildlife Refuge. Yesterday, the trip leader, John Nelson, scouted Grand
Isle and found a disturbing absence of birds, possibly due to winter storm
Enzo, and an abundance of mosquitoes. Here are the details for the Bayou
Sauvage NWR trip:
*Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge* – Half Day Trip
*Saturday, February 8, 8:00 a.m.*
Meet at the Ridge Trail parking lot on Chef Hwy: 17160 Chef Menteur Highway
New Orleans, LA 70129. Immediately after crossing the Maxent Canal, look
for the refuge sign and turn onto Ridge Trail Road.
Leader: John Nelson 504-258-1009 <johnnygnelsoniv...>
If you know anyone who was thinking about going, please spread the word
about the change to Bayou Sauvage.
Date: 1/29/25 6:00 pm From: Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io <jenniferocoulson...> Subject: [labird] Grand Isle Winter Birds Trip - Saturday, February 8th
Dear LABIRD,
Orleans Audubon Society has a birding trip to Grand Isle coming up. Here
are the details:
*Grand Isle Winter Birds – All Day Trip*
Saturday, February 8, 8:00 a.m.
Meet at Moran’s grocery/gas station on the corner of Hwy. 1 and Hwy 3090
(Fourchon Rd.) right where you come off of the new bridge. Note: The new
Leeville Bridge across the Intracoastal Waterway is a toll bridge. Moran’s
Marina, 27900 Highway 1, Golden Meadow, LA, located at the end of the
Leeville Bridge.
Leader: John Nelson 504-258-1009 <johnnygnelsoniv...>
Bring binoculars, field guides, bug spray, rain gear, sunscreen and
refreshments. Boots and cell phones may be useful. Snacks and drinks are
recommended. Contact the trip leader if you have questions. Any last minute
changes will be posted on the events page of the Orleans Audubon Society
website, so check *https://jjaudubon.net/events/ <https://jjaudubon.net/events/>* for updates.
At the discretion of the leader(s) trips will be divided into groups if the
number of attendees becomes too large. eBird users: Please share your eBird
account email address with the trip leader and the trip leader or designee
will keep the trip list to share with participants.
Sign up for OAS program and field trip announcements here:
Date: 1/27/25 6:35 am From: Shively, Steve- FS via groups.io <Stephen.Shively...> Subject: Re: [labird] Dr. Remsen’s Buff-bellied Hummingbird surviving 10 degree night.
1st Buff-bellied I ever saw was on the banks of the Rio Grande in the Valley the morning after a 15 degree night resulting from a severe blue norther in 1989 or so.
This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.
Date: 1/26/25 5:59 am From: Jennifer Outlaw Coulson via groups.io <jenniferocoulson...> Subject: [labird] Birds in Print with Pippin Frisbee-Calder - Abita Springs, Jan. 28th
Dear LABIRD,
The Audubon Abita Bird Club, an affiliate of the Orleans Audubon Society,
has an interesting program this coming Tuesday. This program is open to the
public, so please spread the word.
Jennifer Coulson
President
Orleans Audubon Society
Birds in Print
with Pippin Frisbee-Calder January 28, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Abita Springs Town Hall, 22161 Level St, Abita Springs, LA 70420
Pippin’s work investigates organisms and ecosystems and demystifies
science, while calling into question human responsibility. *Working with
scientists she creates amazing large-scale installations and prints
exploring issues of climate change, species extinction and environmental
stewardship.* The work she is happiest with always finds a balance between
printmaking, science and draftsmanship, unifying to tell big picture
stories about humanity’s complicated relationship with nature.
Dr. J. V. Remsen
Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
najames<at>LSU.edu
> On Jan 23, 2025, at 10:40 AM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote:
>
> LABIRD: Video of the birds (500+) swarming my feeders on Tuesday. Several were sluggish and clearly suffering. Heavy wet snow was sticking to plumage and freezing. More later ….
>
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASxqvW08A24 >
>
>
> ===================
>
> Dr. J. V. Remsen
> Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
> Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
> LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
> najames<at>LSU.edu
>
>> On Jan 22, 2025, at 9:00 PM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote:
>>
>> LABIRD: I will post a couple of eBird lists from yesterday with videos to show the feeding frenzy at my place, but meanwhile today …. 100% survival of my hummingbirds despite 10 F. I brought in all feeders last night and had them out before dawn. Because Amazilia is a genus of the lowland tropics, I was most worried about my Buff-bellied, but it made it! This afternoon’s eBird list (5 species hummers):
>>
>> https://ebird.org/checklist/S210310975 >>
>> ===================
>>
>> Dr. J. V. Remsen
>> Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
>> Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
>> LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
>> najames<at>LSU.edu
>>
>>> On Jan 21, 2025, at 3:09 PM, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson...> wrote:
>>>
>>> LAbird,
>>>
>>> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
>>>
>>> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>>>
>>> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>>>
>>> Erik Johnson
>>> Sunset, LA
>>> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/24/25 1:39 pm From: Debra Babin via groups.io <Debra.b...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Wow, sorry for the poor formatting. Not sure what happened. One more try to make it easier to read: Among the usual suspects, we had an elevated number of House Finches(10) and American Goldfinches(15). The Yellow-rumped Warblers have been low(2) and the Northern Cardinals(10) were somewhat typical. Several winters ago we had our highest ever count of Cardinals, 30(!), all of them sunning themselves in a 80 foot long hedgerow! We have also been enjoying Red-winged blackbirds(4), White-throated Sparrows(2), Ruby-crowned Kinglet(1), Orange-crowned Warbler(1), and a Yellow-throated Warbler(1) that has been around since Jan 10th. I believe we've had Yellow-throated Warblers here for about 5 of the past 7 winters. Always excited to see them! The birds hitting the suet during the freeze were Yellow-throated Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Red-bellied & Downy Woodpeckers, Titmice, Chickadees, Carolina Wrens, and even one House Sparrow. This fall, we had Mockingbirds, Brown Thrashers, and even Gray Catbirds "hovering" between the squirrel baffle & the suet feeder, pecking at the suet before flying off with tiny bits. None of these have been see eating suet during this freeze/snow event. Brown Thrashers and Gray Catbirds have not been seen at all over the past week or two. On Jan 24, 2025, at 3:34 PM, Debra Babin via groups.io <Debra.b...> wrote: Among the usual suspects, we had an elevated number of House Finches(10) and American Goldfinches(15). The Yellow-rumped Warblers have been low(2) and the Northern Cardinals(10) were somewhat typical. Several winters ago we had our highest ever count of Cardinals, 30(!), all of them sunning themselves in a 80 foot long hedgerow! We have also been enjoying Red-winged blackbirds(4), White-throated Sparrows(2), Ruby-crowned Kinglet(1), Orange-crowned Warbler(1), and a Yellow-throated Warbler(1) that has been around since Jan 10th. I believe we've had Yellow-throated Warblers here for about 5 of the past 7 winters. Always excited to see them! The birds hitting the suet during the freeze were Yellow-throated Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Red-bellied & Downy Woodpeckers, Titmice, Chickadees, Carolina Wrens, and even one House Sparrow. This fall, we had Mockingbirds, Brown Thrashers, and even Gray Catbirds "hovering" between the squirrel baffle & the suet feeder, pecking at the suet before flying off with tiny bits. None of these have been see eating suet during this freeze/snow event. Brown Thrashers and Gray Catbirds have not been seen at all over the past week or two. On Jan 23, 2025, at 10:40 AM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote: LABIRD: Video of the birds (500+) swarming my feeders on Tuesday. Several were sluggish and clearly suffering. Heavy wet snow was sticking to plumage and freezing. More later …. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASxqvW08A24 =================== Dr. J. V. Remsen Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 najames<at>LSU.edu On Jan 22, 2025, at 9:00 PM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote: LABIRD: I will post a couple of eBird lists from yesterday with videos to show the feeding frenzy at my place, but meanwhile today …. 100% survival of my hummingbirds despite 10 F. I brought in all feeders last night and had them out before dawn. Because Amazilia is a genus of the lowland tropics, I was most worried about my Buff-bellied, but it made it! This afternoon’s eBird list (5 species hummers): https://ebird.org/checklist/S210310975 =================== Dr. J. V. Remsen Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 najames<at>LSU.edu On Jan 21, 2025, at 3:09 PM, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson...> wrote: LAbird, With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing. The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet. Hope everyone is safe and warm. Erik Johnson Sunset, LA Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
Date: 1/24/25 1:34 pm From: Debra Babin via groups.io <Debra.b...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Among the usual suspects, we had an elevated number of House Finches(10) and American Goldfinches(15). The Yellow-rumped Warblers have been low(2) and the Northern Cardinals(10) were somewhat typical. Several winters ago we had our highest ever count of Cardinals, 30(!), all of them sunning themselves in a 80 foot long hedgerow! We have also been enjoying Red-winged blackbirds(4), White-throated Sparrows(2), Ruby-crowned Kinglet(1), Orange-crowned Warbler(1), and a Yellow-throated Warbler(1) that has been around since Jan 10th. I believe we've had Yellow-throated Warblers here for about 5 of the past 7 winters. Always excited to see them! The birds hitting the suet during the freeze were Yellow-throated Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Red-bellied & Downy Woodpeckers, Titmice, Chickadees, Carolina Wrens, and even one House Sparrow. This fall, we had Mockingbirds, Brown Thrashers, and even Gray Catbirds "hovering" between the squirrel baffle & the suet feeder, pecking at the suet before flying off with tiny bits. None of these have been see eating suet during this freeze/snow event. Brown Thrashers and Gray Catbirds have not been seen at all over the past week or two. On Jan 23, 2025, at 10:40 AM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote: LABIRD: Video of the birds (500+) swarming my feeders on Tuesday. Several were sluggish and clearly suffering. Heavy wet snow was sticking to plumage and freezing. More later …. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASxqvW08A24 =================== Dr. J. V. Remsen Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 najames<at>LSU.edu On Jan 22, 2025, at 9:00 PM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote: LABIRD: I will post a couple of eBird lists from yesterday with videos to show the feeding frenzy at my place, but meanwhile today …. 100% survival of my hummingbirds despite 10 F. I brought in all feeders last night and had them out before dawn. Because Amazilia is a genus of the lowland tropics, I was most worried about my Buff-bellied, but it made it! This afternoon’s eBird list (5 species hummers): https://ebird.org/checklist/S210310975 =================== Dr. J. V. Remsen Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 najames<at>LSU.edu On Jan 21, 2025, at 3:09 PM, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson...> wrote: LAbird, With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing. The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet. Hope everyone is safe and warm. Erik Johnson Sunset, LA Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
Date: 1/23/25 9:12 am From: Donata Henry via groups.io <droome...> Subject: [labird] More on snow birds
Thanks for sharing these lists - it's so interesting to see who is at your feeders in this wild weather!
In Abita Springs I have had a couple of Purple Finches and ONE Pine Siskin among the many goldfinches. A Red-headed Woodpecker showed up - they haven't been around our yard for awhile - along with downies, red-bellies, and a sapsucker. Chipping Sparrows but why no White-throated Sparrows? Plenty of Mourning Doves but no blackbirds of any kind. Orange-crowned Warbler and Pine Warblers eager on the suet, and like David I am seeing Yellow-rumped Warblers on the ice around the edge of the lake. They seem to be picking at something but I also observed them drinking water. They seem to have swapped places with the Common Yellowthroat who is now foraging father into the yard than usual, among the dead calico asters. The Yellow-rumps and Ruby-crowned Kinglets are also hovering to the ceiling of the porch and window panes to snap up dead spiders and gnats. Now that the snow is melting the goldfinches are foraging more on the exposed ground than the feeders. Where is the Cooper's Hawk with all of this feeder activity? Surely lurking...
Meanwhile the Pied-billed Grebes on the pond are garbling and bathing away completely un-phased.
So grateful for the snow birds and all of their entertaining behaviors!
Date: 1/23/25 8:40 am From: James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
LABIRD: Video of the birds (500+) swarming my feeders on Tuesday. Several were sluggish and clearly suffering. Heavy wet snow was sticking to plumage and freezing. More later ….
Dr. J. V. Remsen
Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
najames<at>LSU.edu
> On Jan 22, 2025, at 9:00 PM, James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> wrote:
>
> LABIRD: I will post a couple of eBird lists from yesterday with videos to show the feeding frenzy at my place, but meanwhile today …. 100% survival of my hummingbirds despite 10 F. I brought in all feeders last night and had them out before dawn. Because Amazilia is a genus of the lowland tropics, I was most worried about my Buff-bellied, but it made it! This afternoon’s eBird list (5 species hummers):
>
> https://ebird.org/checklist/S210310975 >
> ===================
>
> Dr. J. V. Remsen
> Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
> Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
> LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
> najames<at>LSU.edu
>
>> On Jan 21, 2025, at 3:09 PM, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson...> wrote:
>>
>> LAbird,
>>
>> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
>>
>> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>>
>> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>>
>> Erik Johnson
>> Sunset, LA
>> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/23/25 8:27 am From: Joseph Kennedy via groups.io <jkennedy366...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
We missed the heavier snow by a few miles but still had a few inches.
No new birds feeding but my herd of yellow-rumped warblers jumped from 300+ to about 500 and a few new pine warblers also arrived. Maybe another dozen cardinals. Last year the freeze brought in a good number of strangers but not this year.
Date: 1/23/25 8:17 am From: Jim Todd via groups.io <jimt2453...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Here in Vatican we’ve seen the following:
American Goldfinches(30-40)
Baltimore Oriole(a first at our feeder)
Pine Warblers
Chipping Sparrow
Mourning Doves
Eurasian Collared Doves
Inca Doves
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Eastern Bluebird
Eastern Phoebe
Northern Cardinals
Carolina Chickadee
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Tufted Titmouse
House Sparrows
> On Jan 22, 2025, at 7:55 PM, David P. Muth via groups.io <muthdp...> wrote:
>
> No hummingbirds in my yard this winter, and none have shown up the last two
> days.
>
> Heavy use of black oil sunflower seed yesterday while it snowed by the
> usual suspects, but also including my first (noticed) goldfinches. During a
> heavy snow flurry yesterday, I glimpsed what I thought might be a
> Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Today it posed on the feeder.
> https://ebird.org/checklist/S210321171 >
> David Muth
>
>> On Wed, Jan 22, 2025 at 7:02 PM Anne Gaiennie via groups.io <annegaiennie=
>> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>>
>> Hi Erik,
>> I had 2 hummers the last two days and had not been seeing hummingbirds for
>> weeks. I sent you a picture of one via private email as I was not able to
>> identify.
>> I had a chipping sparrow yesterday and two today--a first time for my
>> yard.
>> Another development yesterday was an onslaught of goldfinches. Before the
>> storm I had been seeing up to 1/2 dozen goldfinches at the feeders, and
>> yesterday there were 50 or more. By this afternoon the numbers were down
>> pretty significantly.
>> It's been wonderful to have the views out the window. Thanks for starting
>> this dialogue.
>>
>> This by Robert Frost came to mind when snow was flying out of tree
>> branches.
>>
>> Dust of Snow
>> By Robert Frost <https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/robert-frost> >> The way a crow
>> Shook down on me
>> The dust of snow
>> From a hemlock tree
>>
>> Has given my heart
>> A change of mood
>> And saved some part
>> Of a day I had rued.
>>
>> On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
>> <audubon.org...> wrote:
>>
>>> LAbird,
>>>
>>> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
>>> all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
>>> you've been seeing.
>>>
>>> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
>>> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
>>> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
>>> little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
>>> regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
>>> which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
>>> hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
>>> Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
>>> Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
>>> Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>>>
>>> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>>>
>>> Erik Johnson
>>> Sunset, LA
>>> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
> --
> David P. Muth
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/22/25 7:00 pm From: James V Remsen via groups.io <najames...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
LABIRD: I will post a couple of eBird lists from yesterday with videos to show the feeding frenzy at my place, but meanwhile today …. 100% survival of my hummingbirds despite 10 F. I brought in all feeders last night and had them out before dawn. Because Amazilia is a genus of the lowland tropics, I was most worried about my Buff-bellied, but it made it! This afternoon’s eBird list (5 species hummers):
Dr. J. V. Remsen
Emeritus Prof. of Natural Science and Curator of Birds
Museum of Natural Science/Dept. Biological Sciences
LSU, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
najames<at>LSU.edu
> On Jan 21, 2025, at 3:09 PM, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson...> wrote:
>
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/22/25 5:55 pm From: David P. Muth via groups.io <muthdp...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
No hummingbirds in my yard this winter, and none have shown up the last two
days.
Heavy use of black oil sunflower seed yesterday while it snowed by the
usual suspects, but also including my first (noticed) goldfinches. During a
heavy snow flurry yesterday, I glimpsed what I thought might be a
Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Today it posed on the feeder.
https://ebird.org/checklist/S210321171
David Muth
On Wed, Jan 22, 2025 at 7:02 PM Anne Gaiennie via groups.io <annegaiennie=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Hi Erik,
> I had 2 hummers the last two days and had not been seeing hummingbirds for
> weeks. I sent you a picture of one via private email as I was not able to
> identify.
> I had a chipping sparrow yesterday and two today--a first time for my
> yard.
> Another development yesterday was an onslaught of goldfinches. Before the
> storm I had been seeing up to 1/2 dozen goldfinches at the feeders, and
> yesterday there were 50 or more. By this afternoon the numbers were down
> pretty significantly.
> It's been wonderful to have the views out the window. Thanks for starting
> this dialogue.
>
> This by Robert Frost came to mind when snow was flying out of tree
> branches.
>
> Dust of Snow
> By Robert Frost <https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/robert-frost> > The way a crow
> Shook down on me
> The dust of snow
> From a hemlock tree
>
> Has given my heart
> A change of mood
> And saved some part
> Of a day I had rued.
>
> On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
> <audubon.org...> wrote:
>
> > LAbird,
> >
> > With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> > all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> > you've been seeing.
> >
> > The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> > devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> > feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> > little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> > regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> > which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> > hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> > Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> > Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> > Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
> >
> > Hope everyone is safe and warm.
> >
> > Erik Johnson
> > Sunset, LA
> > Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/22/25 5:02 pm From: Anne Gaiennie via groups.io <annegaiennie...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Hi Erik,
I had 2 hummers the last two days and had not been seeing hummingbirds for
weeks. I sent you a picture of one via private email as I was not able to
identify.
I had a chipping sparrow yesterday and two today--a first time for my
yard.
Another development yesterday was an onslaught of goldfinches. Before the
storm I had been seeing up to 1/2 dozen goldfinches at the feeders, and
yesterday there were 50 or more. By this afternoon the numbers were down
pretty significantly.
It's been wonderful to have the views out the window. Thanks for starting
this dialogue.
This by Robert Frost came to mind when snow was flying out of tree branches.
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued.
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
<audubon.org...> wrote:
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/22/25 4:12 pm From: Sandra Barbier via groups.io <sandabar10...> Subject: Re: Fw: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
I couldn't get to feeders (too treacherous with bad knees) so I threw
sunflower seed on patio and ground. Had about 65 goldfinches on the ground
at one time and I'm sure there were more. They kept coming all day. I put
up one hummingbird feeder and drew one bird - I don't know what - all day.
It buzzed me by 6 inches while I refilled it once! Today, I put up a second
feeder nearer the door (again, the ice) but the hummingbird ignored it. I
tried a red paper bow, artificial flowers -- nothing worked to draw it
near. Finally the first feeder thawed this afternoon and bird got to feed
again. Hoping I can be more routine tomorrow. It was challenging but a
thrill. Thanks for asking.
On Wed, Jan 22, 2025 at 1:06 PM Catherine Hansen via groups.io
<cathy.hansen...> wrote:
> From: Charles Hughes <crhughes3...>Sent: Wednesday, January 22,
> 2025 at 11:41:47 AM CSTSubject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your
> feeders?
> The one Rufous Hummingbird remains at my feeder. I put a new feeder out
> at dawn to replace the one that froze the night before. Other feeders have
> American Goldfinches, Carolina Wrens, Warblers (sorry, I don’t know what
> they are), House Finches, House Sparrows, Mockingbirds, Grackles, and
> Starlings.
> No woodpeckers or doves.
>
> Chuck Hughes
> Monroe, LA
>
> > On Jan 21, 2025, at 18:46, Catherine Hansen via groups.io <cathy.hansen=
> <cox.net...> wrote:
> >
> > I'm in Mid City Baton Rouge in Goodwood neighborhood. I did get a
> Purple Finch and House Finches, had flocks of Goldfinches, Red-bellied and
> Downies, Mourning and White-winged doves, Tufted Titmouse, RC Kinglets,
> Cardinals, Mockingbirds, Robins, OC Warbler at the suet, Pine Warblers. Put
> feeders out but no hummers although I have not had any lately.
> > In one part of the backyard that has no tree cover we got close to 10".
> Under the Live Oak 4-5".
> > Bundle up everybody!
> > Cathy
> >
> > On Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 03:09:57 PM CST, Johnson, Erik via
> groups.io <erik.johnson...> wrote:
> >
> > LAbird,
> >
> > With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in
> Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there.
> Share what you've been seeing.
> >
> > The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
> >
> > Hope everyone is safe and warm.
> >
> > Erik Johnson
> > Sunset, LA
> > Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/22/25 11:06 am From: Catherine Hansen via groups.io <cathy.hansen...> Subject: Fw: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
From: Charles Hughes <crhughes3...>Sent: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 11:41:47 AM CSTSubject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
The one Rufous Hummingbird remains at my feeder. I put a new feeder out at dawn to replace the one that froze the night before. Other feeders have American Goldfinches, Carolina Wrens, Warblers (sorry, I don’t know what they are), House Finches, House Sparrows, Mockingbirds, Grackles, and Starlings.
No woodpeckers or doves.
Chuck Hughes
Monroe, LA
> On Jan 21, 2025, at 18:46, Catherine Hansen via groups.io <cathy.hansen...> wrote:
>
> I'm in Mid City Baton Rouge in Goodwood neighborhood. I did get a Purple Finch and House Finches, had flocks of Goldfinches, Red-bellied and Downies, Mourning and White-winged doves, Tufted Titmouse, RC Kinglets, Cardinals, Mockingbirds, Robins, OC Warbler at the suet, Pine Warblers. Put feeders out but no hummers although I have not had any lately.
> In one part of the backyard that has no tree cover we got close to 10". Under the Live Oak 4-5".
> Bundle up everybody!
> Cathy
>
> On Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 03:09:57 PM CST, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <erik.johnson...> wrote:
>
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/22/25 11:04 am From: Paul Conover via groups.io <zoiseaux...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Erik, All,
My backyard hasn't been very active this year, but it was
interesting to see how the birds that were there handled the snow and
the record cold that followed. I put some videos on YouTube from
yesterday and this morning:
On 1/21/2025 3:09 PM, Johnson, Erik via groups.io wrote:
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 7:22 pm From: Mac Myers via groups.io <budogmacm...> Subject: Re: [labird] Limpkin sent packing?
Several years ago, post-Limpkin arrival, we had very cold weather with
low-teens and a long subfreezing period here in Eunice. It was probably not
quite so cold in Kraemer, but both Limpkins and apple snails survived and
thrived.
BTW, we had about 10 inches here in Eunice, and overnight lows will
probably reach single digits!
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 8:30 PM Paul Dickson via groups.io <paul=
<morrisdickson.com...> wrote:
> Labird:
> Got some amazing snow photos from Kraemer, La where Limpkins were first
> found. I wonder what effect this freeze and snow is going to have on Apple
> Snails. Will the Limpkin era abruptly end?
> Paul Dickson,
> Wondering from a snowless N. La.
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 6:30 pm From: Paul Dickson via groups.io <paul...> Subject: [labird] Limpkin sent packing?
Labird:
Got some amazing snow photos from Kraemer, La where Limpkins were first found. I wonder what effect this freeze and snow is going to have on Apple Snails. Will the Limpkin era abruptly end?
Paul Dickson,
Wondering from a snowless N. La.
Date: 1/21/25 4:46 pm From: Catherine Hansen via groups.io <cathy.hansen...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
I'm in Mid City Baton Rouge in Goodwood neighborhood. I did get a Purple Finch and House Finches, had flocks of Goldfinches, Red-bellied and Downies, Mourning and White-winged doves, Tufted Titmouse, RC Kinglets, Cardinals, Mockingbirds, Robins, OC Warbler at the suet, Pine Warblers. Put feeders out but no hummers although I have not had any lately.
In one part of the backyard that has no tree cover we got close to 10". Under the Live Oak 4-5".
Bundle up everybody!
Cathy
On Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 03:09:57 PM CST, Johnson, Erik via groups.io <erik.johnson...> wrote:
LAbird,
With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
Hope everyone is safe and warm.
Erik Johnson
Sunset, LA
Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
Date: 1/21/25 4:07 pm From: Harriett Pooler via groups.io <harriett.pooler...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Hi everyone,
I've gotten a flurry of the same birds, especially lots of Goldfinches and
Yellow rumps with the cold weather. A new hummer appeared and I have
no idea what it is. Interesting bird behavior I observed...there is an
orange crowned warbler that hangs out at the feeder and eats butter bark I
have smeared on the top/side for it. A starling (of all birds) showed up
this morning at the feeder and chased away the OC warbler several times to
eat the bark. Who knew Starlings ate bark butter? I chased the Starling
away.............
Happy birding,
Harriett
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 5:01 PM Toddy Guidry via groups.io <guidrys=
<cox.net...> wrote:
> Erik at al
> Its been a real smorgasbord here.
> The snow marked my ruler between 9-10 inches.
> Obviously lots of Goldfinches, but Cardinals, Pine Warbs, OC Warbs(also
> hitting hummingbird feeders), Grackles, WT Sparrows, 1 Swamp Sparrow, YR
> Warbs, 1 Junco, Chickadees, a few Blue Jays have all hit the platform
> feeder
> with mixed seeds.
> No other finches, no siskins.
>
> But I definitely have new hummers. I have 6 feeders out and birds fighting,
> flying all over the yard. R/A, BC,RT, BB all seem to be here.
> Hopefully they will hang around until the LOS tour Friday.
>
> Like many of you, I was up at dawn to put hummer feeders out and have been
> outside most of the day sweeping snow off my seed feeders and refreshing
> hummingbird feeders freezing constantly.
> It has definitely been a diligent day!
>
> BTW - Elaine texted me she had a male Painted Bunting at her seed platform.
>
> Toddy
> South Lafayette near Milton
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: <labird...> <labird...> On Behalf Of Johnson, Erik via
> groups.io
> Sent: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 3:10 PM
> To: <labird...>
> Subject: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
>
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> little
> group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly
> come
> to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't
> had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are
> accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new
> has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and
> about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine
> Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 4:03 pm From: Michael Cavanaugh via groups.io <michaelcav...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
We had a nice long list today, including our 114th yard bird, a Rusty Blackbird. We also had a mystery bird we are still working on. Lots of photos but none great. I'll post it if we can't figure it out. MAYBE a kinglet with unusual markings. Anyway, here is the known list below: ThanksMichael Cavanaugh(1 mile south of LSU just off Highland Road) Downy woodpeckerRusty blackbirdBlue JayRobinCarolina WrenTitmouseWhite-throated sparrowChickadeeGoldfinchHouse finchRuby-crowned kingletCardinalHermit ThrushHummingbird, believed to be ruby-throatRed-bellied sapsuckerPine warbler
Date: 1/21/25 3:58 pm From: Jane Patterson via groups.io <seejanebird...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Three Rufous type hummingbirds are trying to share two heated feeders with
reasonable success. I've got loads of red-winged blackbirds, c. grackles,
and am Goldfinches, etc. but the most unusual visitor has been a Winter
Wren in an azalea right outside my kitchen window. It was a brief look but
unmistakable. It didn't stick around for a photo though...
--Jane Patterson
Ponchatoula
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
<audubon.org...> wrote:
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 3:50 pm From: David P. Muth via groups.io <muthdp...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
I walked to City Park in New Orleans between 2 and 3 p.m. Snow was still
falling heavily, and blowing blizzard-like from the north. I estimate
nearly 8 inches had accumulated. An Anhinga with its head tucked under a
wing in an overhanging branch on Bayou St. John. Canada Geese with white
backs serenely paddling on Big Lake near MOMA.
Most interesting: several Yellow-rumped Warblers foraging on the snow-free
edge of the lagoons, which edge is only a few inches wide and patchily icy,
but must harbor something for them to eat. Otherwise, all YRWA seen were in
fruit-laden wax myrtle.
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 5:28 PM Missy Bowen via groups.io <missybowen=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> At the same time: Eastern Bluebird, Brown Thrasher, a bullying Summer
> Tanager, several Warbler flavors, finches galore (but no pufis or juncos),
> and the usual suspects...Cardinals, chickadees, blue jays, and sparrows.
> The Rufous hummer is obnoxiously running off all other comers to its
> feeder. I stuck an old sun hat over the hummer feeder after getting tired
> of brushing it off every 10 minutes. That gentleman in Labadieville had the
> right idea!
>
> On Tue, Jan 21, 2025, 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
> <audubon.org...> wrote:
>
> > LAbird,
> >
> > With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> > all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> > you've been seeing.
> >
> > The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> > devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> > feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> > little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> > regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> > which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> > hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> > Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> > Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> > Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
> >
> > Hope everyone is safe and warm.
> >
> > Erik Johnson
> > Sunset, LA
> > Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 3:28 pm From: Missy Bowen via groups.io <missybowen...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
At the same time: Eastern Bluebird, Brown Thrasher, a bullying Summer Tanager, several Warbler flavors, finches galore (but no pufis or juncos), and the usual suspects...Cardinals, chickadees, blue jays, and sparrows. The Rufous hummer is obnoxiously running off all other comers to its feeder. I stuck an old sun hat over the hummer feeder after getting tired of brushing it off every 10 minutes. That gentleman in Labadieville had the right idea!
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025, 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson= <audubon.org...> wrote:
> LAbird, > > With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), > all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what > you've been seeing. > > The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds > devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed > feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A > little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't > regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, > which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter > hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and > Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 > Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No > Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet. > > Hope everyone is safe and warm. > > Erik Johnson > Sunset, LA > Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org > > > > > >
Date: 1/21/25 3:01 pm From: Toddy Guidry via groups.io <guidrys...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Erik at al
Its been a real smorgasbord here.
The snow marked my ruler between 9-10 inches.
Obviously lots of Goldfinches, but Cardinals, Pine Warbs, OC Warbs(also
hitting hummingbird feeders), Grackles, WT Sparrows, 1 Swamp Sparrow, YR
Warbs, 1 Junco, Chickadees, a few Blue Jays have all hit the platform feeder
with mixed seeds.
No other finches, no siskins.
But I definitely have new hummers. I have 6 feeders out and birds fighting,
flying all over the yard. R/A, BC,RT, BB all seem to be here.
Hopefully they will hang around until the LOS tour Friday.
Like many of you, I was up at dawn to put hummer feeders out and have been
outside most of the day sweeping snow off my seed feeders and refreshing
hummingbird feeders freezing constantly.
It has definitely been a diligent day!
BTW - Elaine texted me she had a male Painted Bunting at her seed platform.
Toddy
South Lafayette near Milton
-----Original Message-----
From: <labird...> <labird...> On Behalf Of Johnson, Erik via
groups.io
Sent: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 3:10 PM
To: <labird...>
Subject: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
LAbird,
With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
you've been seeing.
The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little
group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come
to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't
had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are
accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new
has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and
about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine
Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
Hope everyone is safe and warm.
Erik Johnson
Sunset, LA
Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
Date: 1/21/25 2:57 pm From: Kevin Colley via groups.io <Kcolley71...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Same here in Algiers. Black-chinned, Rufous, Buff-bellied. Surprise Spotted sandpiper. A few Goldfinches, House finches. An Orange-crowned warbler desperately using the hummingbird feeders. I guess its other sources of food are not available in this weather. Keeping the snow off the feeders is an ongoing process and a pain in the neck!
Kevin Colley
> On Jan 21, 2025, at 3:25 PM, James W. Beck via groups.io <loxosceles928...> wrote:
>
> Nice, Erik!
> Kind of slow here in Marrero. Yellow-throated Warbler, three Ruby-throats,
> our Black-chinned and Rufous has been about it so far.
>
>> On Tue, Jan 21, 2025, 15:09 Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
>> <audubon.org...> wrote:
>>
>> LAbird,
>>
>> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
>> all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
>> you've been seeing.
>>
>> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
>> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
>> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
>> little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
>> regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
>> which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
>> hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
>> Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
>> Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
>> Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>>
>> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>>
>> Erik Johnson
>> Sunset, LA
>> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 2:30 pm From: James W. Beck via groups.io <loxosceles928...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
It seems to be a trend here on the West Bank in the last few years in
general with declining goldfinch numbers. For example, today I have had
one, and that bird never even came to feeders, it was a flyover.
James W. Beck
Estelle, Louisiana
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 16:28 muchio7 via groups.io <muchio7=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> We got about 7 inches of snow in southeast Baton Rouge parish.
>
> So far in my backyard and feeder I have had the following in much higher
> numbers than usual: American Goldfinches, Northern Cardinals, Ruby-Crowned
> Kinglet, Pine Warblers, Tufted Titmouse, Chickadees, Bluejays, Brown
> Thrasher and Carolina Wrens. New visitors to the yard are two Brown-headed
> cowbirds and an American Pipit.
>
> One interesting observation over lunch was a Wilson's Snipe walking the
> sidewalk of the neighborhood.
>
> Brandon
>
> On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
> <audubon.org...> wrote:
>
> > LAbird,
> >
> > With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> > all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> > you've been seeing.
> >
> > The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> > devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> > feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> > little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> > regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> > which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> > hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> > Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> > Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> > Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
> >
> > Hope everyone is safe and warm.
> >
> > Erik Johnson
> > Sunset, LA
> > Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 2:28 pm From: muchio7 via groups.io <muchio7...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
We got about 7 inches of snow in southeast Baton Rouge parish.
So far in my backyard and feeder I have had the following in much higher
numbers than usual: American Goldfinches, Northern Cardinals, Ruby-Crowned
Kinglet, Pine Warblers, Tufted Titmouse, Chickadees, Bluejays, Brown
Thrasher and Carolina Wrens. New visitors to the yard are two Brown-headed
cowbirds and an American Pipit.
One interesting observation over lunch was a Wilson's Snipe walking the
sidewalk of the neighborhood.
Brandon
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025 at 3:09 PM Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson=
<audubon.org...> wrote:
> LAbird,
>
> With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!),
> all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what
> you've been seeing.
>
> The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds
> devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed
> feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A
> little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't
> regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco,
> which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter
> hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and
> Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14
> Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No
> Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
>
> Hope everyone is safe and warm.
>
> Erik Johnson
> Sunset, LA
> Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 1/21/25 1:25 pm From: James W. Beck via groups.io <loxosceles928...> Subject: Re: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
Nice, Erik! Kind of slow here in Marrero. Yellow-throated Warbler, three Ruby-throats, our Black-chinned and Rufous has been about it so far.
On Tue, Jan 21, 2025, 15:09 Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson= <audubon.org...> wrote:
> LAbird, > > With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), > all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what > you've been seeing. > > The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds > devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed > feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A > little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't > regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, > which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter > hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and > Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 > Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No > Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet. > > Hope everyone is safe and warm. > > Erik Johnson > Sunset, LA > Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org > > > > > >
Date: 1/21/25 1:10 pm From: Johnson, Erik via groups.io <Erik.Johnson...> Subject: [labird] Snow birds? What's at your feeders?
LAbird,
With such an unprecedented snowfall (8.25 inches at my place in Sunset!), all kinds of interesting bird observations must be out there. Share what you've been seeing.
The most interesting observation at my place was 4 Rusty Blackbirds devouring black oil sunflower. Also, a Brown Thrasher visited the seed feeder, which I think may be a first for me (at least in south LA). A little group of Common Grackles briefly stopped by, which also don't regularly come to my seed feeders. One quick visit by a Dark-eyed Junco, which I haven't had at the feeder yet this winter. Most of my winter hummingbirds are accounted for - I have a few each of Black-chins and Rufous, and no one new has arrived as far as I can tell. Maxed out at 14 Northern Cardinals and about 50 American Goldfinches in view at once. No Purple Finches or Pine Siskins, but this isn't over yet.
Hope everyone is safe and warm.
Erik Johnson
Sunset, LA
Erik.Johnson AT Audubon DOT org