Date: 2/23/19 2:14 pm From: <rcd2...> Subject: [wisb] Last Call for Totals
For those interested in submitting their Totals for print in the Badger Birder, the deadline for doing so is March 1 (this coming Friday). You can do so by sending your Totals back channel to me at the address shown. Details of what is being requested are shown below. Hope to hear from you --
--Bob Domagalski, St. Nazianz, Manitowoc County
It is the start of a new birding year and, thus, it is that time again to share your birding numbers from the year just past. For those who wish to do so, the WSO will again be publishing in the Badger Birder your totals from 2018. You do not need to be a member of the WSO to participate. Any birder who meets the threshold numbers is welcomed to submit. To do so, one need only reply back channel to this message and share your totals for the following categories. And THANKS for sharing!
Categories --
1. 2018 Wisconsin Year Total (threshold 200)
2. Wisconsin Life Total (threshold 200)
3. ABA Area Life Total (threshold 400) -The ABA Checklist delineation of the "ABA Area" will be used. Thus the ABA Area encompassed "the 49 continental states of the US plus Hawaii, Canada, the French islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon (which will add numerous birds to most totals), the adjacent waters to a distance of 200 nautical miles from land or half the distance to a neighboring country, whichever is less. Excluded by these boundaries are Bermuda, the Bahamas, and Greenland." Participation in submitting this total is limited to those who have a claim to at least part time residence in Wisconsin.
4. 2018 BIGBY Total (sometimes called a Green Year) with a threshold of 100. This number is the total of species seen by selecting a center point (most likely your residence) and then noting all the birds found when walking, biking, canoeing, etc. from this central location. Any species found with the aid of a motorized form of transportation are not countable.
5. County Life Totals (threshold 125). For any county in which one has found 125 or more species, enter the name of the county followed by the number of species found.
Date: 2/22/19 2:52 pm From: <eileenworman...> Subject: [wisb] Sandhill Crane, etc., Richfield, Washington County
Pretty neat to see a single Sandhill Crane flying high, circling over our property this afternoon and ironically on the same date as last year's first arrivals. But this year they will find the creek in our backyard covered in snow and ice, unlike last year when they walked right into it late in the afternoon on Feb. 22nd. I took a documentary quality shot only, so I won't share it.This winter was a bit different than last winter, which was our first year at this house. We had Common Redpolls from late December 2017 through February 2018, but this winter, none, just like many others have reported.We have enjoyed seeing Pine Siskins on occasion, though.We also had a very determined Northern Shrike on many November, December and January days, although I never saw it get any birds. We have two Cooper's Hawks who visit almost daily, occasionally snagging a snack.Today I witnessed the males of several species doing some form or other of battles in flight...it's getting noisy out there, too, which is wonderful.A pair of Northern Flickers have also been visiting our feeders almost daily this winter and the peanut butter on our Christmas tree on the deck has been a popular spot for many species, including Northern Cardinals, American Tree Sparrows, Downy, Hairy, Red-bellied WPs and the Flickers, Juncos and Chickadees. I'm about to open my sixth 4 lb. jar of peanut butter!An occasional adult Bald Eagle sighting and even a visit right in the yard was exciting this winter, too.Eileen WormanRichfield, Washington County
I decided to spend this nice day checking along Lake Michigan, before the weekend storm arrives. Nothing seems to have changed since I was there more than a month ago. Very, very QUIET!!! Starting in Port Washington I worked north to Harrington Beach and Kohler SPs, Indian Mound Park and Sheboygan. The only bird of interest (?) in the Port harbor was a Coot. Thousands of geese were present (all Canadas) plus the usual diving ducks and Mallards; NO gulls were seen; neither the loon or scoter from last Sat. Harrington Beach (end of D) had lots of ice with very limited open water. The usual diving ducks were present plus a pair of Long-tailed Ducks in quite close. Kohler had nothing of note. Finally gulls were found at Sheboygan (Ring-billed, Herring and 1 adult Great Black-backed) plus a female Long-tailed Duck. There was very limited open water in the harbor with the river all ice.
To me it is amazing how quiet this winter continues to be. The limited amount of times I have been in the field confirms it. I have about as many birds in my yard as I saw in the field today. And I still have 2 White-throated Sparrows (down one from most of the winter). Daryl Tessen Appleton,, WI
Date: 2/22/19 7:53 am From: Packett, Diane L - DNR <Diane.Packett...> Subject: [wisb] Spring waterbird migration, east and west
Join waterbird biologists to witness Spring migration with the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. Proceeds benefit the Bird Protection Fund, which has raised over $1 million for bird protection and research since 2009.
Waterfowl ecologists Jim Nissen and Jeb Barzen will lead a bus tour along the Mississippi River to watch migrating waterbirds of all kinds, as well as eagles and other raptors, and will talk about the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge and how the river is managed to benefit both people and birds.
On the other side of the state, you can see one of our Bird Protection Fund Priority Projects at work monitoring migrating waterbirds along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Bill Mueller, Director of the Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory, will talk about their longshore and offshore migration research, and lead participants to the field site where research is in progress. Spring migration on the lake brings ducks, gulls, loons, cormorants, terns, and shorebirds.
More information and registration at the link below. You do not have to be a Foundation member to join these tours.
Date: 2/20/19 1:48 pm From: Jim Edlhuber <jimedlhuber...> Subject: [wisb] Herring Gull enjoys some of a Rock Bass ~ Fox River Waukesha 2/20/19, some images...
Hi all, Doing some birding today in Waukesha along the Fox River I came across a Herring Gull enjoying some Rock Bass for lunch. That was the highlight of the misty-cloudy-snowy day.
Some images of the Herring Gull enjoying some of the Rock Bass today at this link if you care to view them:
I have had three white-throated sparrows in the yard, around the feeders, all winter - a first for me. Peg Zappen Trempealeau County
On Wed, Feb 20, 2019 at 1:21 PM Gregory Neu <gneubirdphotographer...> wrote:
> Cathy, > We've had a White-throated Sparrow at our feeder on and off (mostly off!) > during the winter season. It was last spotted on February 8 by my wife > Eileen. > > Greg Neu > Waukesha, Waukesha County > > On Wed, Feb 20, 2019 at 12:05 PM Richard Dermody <randcdermody7...> > wrote: > > > Very out of season, but there's a White-throated Sparrow under my feeder > > now! > > Cathy Dermody, Milwaukee County > > > > > > #################### > > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > > > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/20/19 11:21 am From: Gregory Neu <gneubirdphotographer...> Subject: [wisb] Re: MKE white-throated Sparrow
Cathy, We've had a White-throated Sparrow at our feeder on and off (mostly off!) during the winter season. It was last spotted on February 8 by my wife Eileen.
Greg Neu Waukesha, Waukesha County
On Wed, Feb 20, 2019 at 12:05 PM Richard Dermody <randcdermody7...> wrote:
> Very out of season, but there's a White-throated Sparrow under my feeder > now! > Cathy Dermody, Milwaukee County > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/20/19 11:09 am From: janek cieszynski <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender cieszyn for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: white-throated Sparrow MKE
I’ve had a male white throated sparrow since December 5th in my yard. He stays close to my house in the bushes and I’ve been throwing bird food on the ground underneath. He disappeared for 3 days after our bitter cold temps a couple of weeks ago but returned. He seems to be doing well and just hangs by himself. I’ll be glad when the warmer temps come for him! Laurie Cieszynski Omro Winnebago County
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 20, 2019, at 12:16 PM, Karen Etter Hale (Redacted sender "chimneyswift1" for DMARC) <dmarc-noreply...> wrote: > > Hi Cathy, > We’ve had one here in Lake Mills since Dec. 24, off and on. It was here again this morning. Not “usual” but not completely unusual, either. > > Karen > -- > Karen Etter Hale > Lake Mills, WI > <chimneyswift1...> > > ***** > Making time for birds > >> On Feb 20, 2019, at 11:31 AM, Richard Dermody <randcdermody7...> wrote: >> >> Odd time of the year for a White-throated Sparrow, but it is under my >> feeder now! >> Cathy Dermody, Southeastern MKE county >> >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/20/19 10:57 am From: Betsy Abert <betsyacorn...> Subject: [wisb] Re: white-throated sparrow-Door County
I have had two white-throateds all winter, and generally have one every year. They hang with some regular juncos and a single tree sparrow. Betsy Abert, So. Milwaukee, Mke Co. On Wed, Feb 20, 2019 at 12:24 PM Charlotte Lukes <clukes...> wrote:
> Last Sunday, Feb. 17th, a friend living in Ellison Bay had a white-throat > in > her yard and snapped a photo for documentation. > Charlotte Lukes > > Egg Harbor > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/20/19 10:16 am From: Karen Etter Hale <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender chimneyswift1 for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: white-throated Sparrow MKE
Hi Cathy, We’ve had one here in Lake Mills since Dec. 24, off and on. It was here again this morning. Not “usual” but not completely unusual, either.
Karen -- Karen Etter Hale Lake Mills, WI <chimneyswift1...>
***** Making time for birds
> On Feb 20, 2019, at 11:31 AM, Richard Dermody <randcdermody7...> wrote: > > Odd time of the year for a White-throated Sparrow, but it is under my > feeder now! > Cathy Dermody, Southeastern MKE county > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/19/19 8:36 am From: Bob Matyas <bobmatyas...> Subject: [wisb] Red-winged Blackbird-Milwaukee County
Hello, Our yard in Franklin is a regular refueling stop for Red-winged Blackbirds until their marshes they breed in thaw out. I was surprised to see a male Red-winged Blackbird in our yard late yesterday afternoon singing away in the intermittent sunshine. Did not see him this morning, so hopefully he ate and went back southwards. It was nice to see the Sunshine and the Red-winged Blackbird in our very Snow-filled yard. By the way, Zero Common Redpolls here all Winter long, and only an occasional Pine Siskin, although the Red-breasted Nuthatches have been here all Winter. Good Birding, Bob and Lu Ann Matyas Franklin, WI. #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn
Date: 2/19/19 7:22 am From: Susan Hoffert <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender shoffert for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls and Pine Siskins
No redpolls up here at the tip of the peninsula either. I did have a big flock of siskins in December as well but they left us by January and we haven’t seen a feather. Even the goldfinches are irregular visitors. But the woodpeckers are keeping us filling the suet feeders.
Susan Hoffert Gills Rock Door County
> On Feb 19, 2019, at 6:39 AM, Dennis Kirschbaum <kad9801...> wrote: > > I had no redpolls in the Prairie du Chien area this season either. > However I did have 50 or so pine siskins from early Dec to the cold snap > of January. After that cold snap the siskins numbers fell to 15. They > are still daily visitors. > > On 2/18/2019 7:13 AM, <rcd2...> wrote: >> The Fall 2018 season for both the redpolls and the siskins was weak. With a poor showing of these birds and others, such as crossbills, it is likely a dull winter for birding in northern Wisconsin. Following is a rough draft of what I am writing. >> >> -- Bob Domagalski, St. Nazianz, Manitowoc County >> >> Common Redpoll – This was not an irruptive fall for redpolls. They were reported from 24 counties, which compares to 36 in 2017 and 11 in 2006. October arrival dates were 26 October in Oneida County (Steve Brezinski), 29 October at the Brady House in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady), 31 October in Ashland County (Nick Anich), and 31 October in Douglas County (Peder Svingen). The high count was 60 on 17 November at the Fischer Creek Conservation Area in Manitowoc County (Jeff Baughman) followed by 47 on 3 November at the Brady House in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady) and 43 on 10 November at the same location. >> >> Hoary Redpoll – For the second consecutive year, there were no fall reports. >> >> Red Crossbill – This was a weak fall for Red Crossbills. They were reported from 14 counties, which compares to the invasive fall of 2017 when they were found in 39 counties. As in 2017, these crossbills were divided into types based on call notes. Early August finds came from the counties of Bayfield, Lincoln, Price, and Sawyer. The high count was 24 on 7 August in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady) followed by 15 on 24 October in Bayfield County (Brady) and 15 on 17 November in Burnett County (Owen Boyle). >> >> White-winged Crossbill – There was one report. That report was of a single bird on 18 November at Porterfield in Marinette County (Jay Watson). >> >> Pine Siskin – This was a poor fall for Pine Siskins. Unlike the fall of 2017 when Pine Siskins were reported in early August from 13 counties, in the fall of 2018 there were early August reports from only two counties. Those two were 2 birds on 4 August in Door County (Adam Arvidson) and 2 birds on 1 August in Vilas County (Rudy Crawford and Michael Gillett). After 4 August, the next find of a siskin in Door County did not come until 2 September. After 1 August, there were only 2 other reports of siskins in Vilas County for the entire fall season. The high count was 100 on 12 and 15 November on Washington Island in Door County (Kristy Larson and Melody Walsh) followed by 85 on 9 November in Ashland County (Donald Jones). These contrast to highs of 487 and 428 in 2017. >> >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> >> > -- > Dennis and Alice Kirschbaum > 1505 E. Parrish St. > Prairie du Chien, Wi 53821 > 608-326-2718 > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/19/19 4:39 am From: Dennis Kirschbaum <kad9801...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls and Pine Siskins
I had no redpolls in the Prairie du Chien area this season either. However I did have 50 or so pine siskins from early Dec to the cold snap of January. After that cold snap the siskins numbers fell to 15. They are still daily visitors.
On 2/18/2019 7:13 AM, <rcd2...> wrote: > The Fall 2018 season for both the redpolls and the siskins was weak. With a poor showing of these birds and others, such as crossbills, it is likely a dull winter for birding in northern Wisconsin. Following is a rough draft of what I am writing. > > -- Bob Domagalski, St. Nazianz, Manitowoc County > > Common Redpoll – This was not an irruptive fall for redpolls. They were reported from 24 counties, which compares to 36 in 2017 and 11 in 2006. October arrival dates were 26 October in Oneida County (Steve Brezinski), 29 October at the Brady House in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady), 31 October in Ashland County (Nick Anich), and 31 October in Douglas County (Peder Svingen). The high count was 60 on 17 November at the Fischer Creek Conservation Area in Manitowoc County (Jeff Baughman) followed by 47 on 3 November at the Brady House in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady) and 43 on 10 November at the same location. > > Hoary Redpoll – For the second consecutive year, there were no fall reports. > > Red Crossbill – This was a weak fall for Red Crossbills. They were reported from 14 counties, which compares to the invasive fall of 2017 when they were found in 39 counties. As in 2017, these crossbills were divided into types based on call notes. Early August finds came from the counties of Bayfield, Lincoln, Price, and Sawyer. The high count was 24 on 7 August in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady) followed by 15 on 24 October in Bayfield County (Brady) and 15 on 17 November in Burnett County (Owen Boyle). > > White-winged Crossbill – There was one report. That report was of a single bird on 18 November at Porterfield in Marinette County (Jay Watson). > > Pine Siskin – This was a poor fall for Pine Siskins. Unlike the fall of 2017 when Pine Siskins were reported in early August from 13 counties, in the fall of 2018 there were early August reports from only two counties. Those two were 2 birds on 4 August in Door County (Adam Arvidson) and 2 birds on 1 August in Vilas County (Rudy Crawford and Michael Gillett). After 4 August, the next find of a siskin in Door County did not come until 2 September. After 1 August, there were only 2 other reports of siskins in Vilas County for the entire fall season. The high count was 100 on 12 and 15 November on Washington Island in Door County (Kristy Larson and Melody Walsh) followed by 85 on 9 November in Ashland County (Donald Jones). These contrast to highs of 487 and 428 in 2017. > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > -- Dennis and Alice Kirschbaum 1505 E. Parrish St. Prairie du Chien, Wi 53821 608-326-2718
Date: 2/18/19 3:32 pm From: tracy chiconas <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender tchiconas for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] checklist from Indiana
Hi, I just stumbled upon this checklist from someone from the 16th from St. Joseph Co. Indiana. I know that this is not from WI, but it seems relevant if not at least interesting. The birds came in from the East at about 7:00pm 1,200 CAGO flew in w/1 Ross's. There was also some nice ducks reported; & by his comment it seems this place can be quite the hot spot for gulls. I also appreciate the detail he put into this checklist.
Date: 2/18/19 10:05 am From: Peter Fissel <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender peter.fissel for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Is it unusual for a Bald Eagle to fly with it's Talons hanging rather than flat against the body?
Mary -
When we were there on Saturday, we noticed the same thing. Some of the eagles were landing very close to the parking lot (fortunately, people were being considerate and staying in their cars,) and we noticed that they would bend down to their talons and appear to be eating something. We finally concluded that they were plucking small fish right off (or just below) the surface - likely gizzard shad or a similar species that had come through the dam gates and were either stunned or dead. The fish were simply too small to be visible in those huge talons, even through binoculars.
It would take a lot of successful forays to make a meal of those little fish! Ordinarily, there would be lots of gulls there, feasting on the bounty, but 100+ Bald Eagles tends to make the gulls very, very nervous.
Peter Fissel
Madison WI
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Mary Zenker <dmzenker...> Sent: Monday, February 18, 2019 10:47 AM To: wisbirdn Subject: [wisb] Is it unusual for a Bald Eagle to fly with it's Talons hanging rather than flat against the body?
Like many, I have been enjoying the great number of Bald Eagles in the Sauk Prairie area. Yesterday, I saw an Eagle approaching and I grabbed my binoculars because it appeared it was carrying prey. On closer examination, I saw that it's talons were empty. It continued on it's way with the talons hanging. While it is possible that it was carrying something small that I didn't see, it was flying in such a way that it did not appear to be high-tailing it to a roost to eat or nest to share food. Is that unusual and/or a sign of a problem? I am not an experienced birdwatcher but I tried to pay attention for the rest of the day and never saw another Eagle with talons extended unless it was attempting to catch prey.
Mary Zenker Sauk City
#################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn FreeLists / Wisconsin Birding Network<http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn> www.freelists.org WISBIRDN is an open discussion list principally focused on Wisconsin birds and birding. Topics may include the timely reporting of rare bird sightings, trip reports, RFIs, activities of the Wisconsin Society of Ornithology, and other birding-related organizations and research. In order to participate you must be subscribed.
Date: 2/18/19 9:07 am From: Drew Cashman <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender drcashman11 for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Is it unusual for a Bald Eagle to fly with it's Talons hanging rather than flat against the body?
d Eagle to fly with it's talons down like you described. On Monday, February 18, 2019, 11:04:12 AM CST, Drew Cashman <dmarc-noreply...> wrote:
ike you described. It hard to say for sure if it has some sort of problem. They do sometimes get fishing line wrapped around their feet that could be harmful and it could cause a lack of circulation to the feet or legs. Thanks! Drew CashmanMadison Audubon SocietyBald Eagle Nest Watch coordinator
On Monday, February 18, 2019, 10:47:46 AM CST, Mary Zenker <dmzenker...> wrote:
Like many, I have been enjoying the great number of Bald Eagles in the Sauk Prairie area. Yesterday, I saw an Eagle approaching and I grabbed my binoculars because it appeared it was carrying prey. On closer examination, I saw that it's talons were empty. It continued on it's way with the talons hanging. While it is possible that it was carrying something small that I didn't see, it was flying in such a way that it did not appear to be high-tailing it to a roost to eat or nest to share food. Is that unusual and/or a sign of a problem? I am not an experienced birdwatcher but I tried to pay attention for the rest of the day and never saw another Eagle with talons extended unless it was attempting to catch prey.
Date: 2/18/19 9:04 am From: Drew Cashman <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender drcashman11 for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Is it unusual for a Bald Eagle to fly with it's Talons hanging rather than flat against the body?
ike you described. It hard to say for sure if it has some sort of problem. They do sometimes get fishing line wrapped around their feet that could be harmful and it could cause a lack of circulation to the feet or legs. Thanks! Drew CashmanMadison Audubon SocietyBald Eagle Nest Watch coordinator
On Monday, February 18, 2019, 10:47:46 AM CST, Mary Zenker <dmzenker...> wrote:
Like many, I have been enjoying the great number of Bald Eagles in the Sauk Prairie area. Yesterday, I saw an Eagle approaching and I grabbed my binoculars because it appeared it was carrying prey. On closer examination, I saw that it's talons were empty. It continued on it's way with the talons hanging. While it is possible that it was carrying something small that I didn't see, it was flying in such a way that it did not appear to be high-tailing it to a roost to eat or nest to share food. Is that unusual and/or a sign of a problem? I am not an experienced birdwatcher but I tried to pay attention for the rest of the day and never saw another Eagle with talons extended unless it was attempting to catch prey.
Date: 2/18/19 8:47 am From: Mary Zenker <dmzenker...> Subject: [wisb] Is it unusual for a Bald Eagle to fly with it's Talons hanging rather than flat against the body?
Like many, I have been enjoying the great number of Bald Eagles in the Sauk Prairie area. Yesterday, I saw an Eagle approaching and I grabbed my binoculars because it appeared it was carrying prey. On closer examination, I saw that it's talons were empty. It continued on it's way with the talons hanging. While it is possible that it was carrying something small that I didn't see, it was flying in such a way that it did not appear to be high-tailing it to a roost to eat or nest to share food. Is that unusual and/or a sign of a problem? I am not an experienced birdwatcher but I tried to pay attention for the rest of the day and never saw another Eagle with talons extended unless it was attempting to catch prey.
Date: 2/18/19 8:25 am From: Charles Peterson <suechick...> Subject: [wisb] Pine Grosbeaks in Ephraim
At 9:45 a.m. this morning I watched about 12 female Pine Grosbeaks eating berries in a small berry tree across the street from Ephraim's Visitor Center, Highway 42. They seem to move from that tree to the cedar trees nearby. The only other bird I saw was a crow flying over the frozen ice on the harbor. Sue Peterson Ephraim WI #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn
Date: 2/18/19 5:14 am From: <rcd2...> Subject: [wisb] Redpolls and Pine Siskins
The Fall 2018 season for both the redpolls and the siskins was weak. With a poor showing of these birds and others, such as crossbills, it is likely a dull winter for birding in northern Wisconsin. Following is a rough draft of what I am writing.
-- Bob Domagalski, St. Nazianz, Manitowoc County
Common Redpoll – This was not an irruptive fall for redpolls. They were reported from 24 counties, which compares to 36 in 2017 and 11 in 2006. October arrival dates were 26 October in Oneida County (Steve Brezinski), 29 October at the Brady House in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady), 31 October in Ashland County (Nick Anich), and 31 October in Douglas County (Peder Svingen). The high count was 60 on 17 November at the Fischer Creek Conservation Area in Manitowoc County (Jeff Baughman) followed by 47 on 3 November at the Brady House in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady) and 43 on 10 November at the same location.
Hoary Redpoll – For the second consecutive year, there were no fall reports.
Red Crossbill – This was a weak fall for Red Crossbills. They were reported from 14 counties, which compares to the invasive fall of 2017 when they were found in 39 counties. As in 2017, these crossbills were divided into types based on call notes. Early August finds came from the counties of Bayfield, Lincoln, Price, and Sawyer. The high count was 24 on 7 August in Bayfield County (Ryan Brady) followed by 15 on 24 October in Bayfield County (Brady) and 15 on 17 November in Burnett County (Owen Boyle).
White-winged Crossbill – There was one report. That report was of a single bird on 18 November at Porterfield in Marinette County (Jay Watson).
Pine Siskin – This was a poor fall for Pine Siskins. Unlike the fall of 2017 when Pine Siskins were reported in early August from 13 counties, in the fall of 2018 there were early August reports from only two counties. Those two were 2 birds on 4 August in Door County (Adam Arvidson) and 2 birds on 1 August in Vilas County (Rudy Crawford and Michael Gillett). After 4 August, the next find of a siskin in Door County did not come until 2 September. After 1 August, there were only 2 other reports of siskins in Vilas County for the entire fall season. The high count was 100 on 12 and 15 November on Washington Island in Door County (Kristy Larson and Melody Walsh) followed by 85 on 9 November in Ashland County (Donald Jones). These contrast to highs of 487 and 428 in 2017.
Date: 2/18/19 5:09 am From: Rick Pertile <mugzy1960...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls this winter
There are some redpolls by me in Sawyer county. Numbers at my feeder are small, about 6 -12 showing up daily with goldfinches. I have see other flocks in the area feeding in alder thickets and on birch catkins and those being larger groups of 2-3 dozen birds. The only siskins I've seen are at my house in Minneapolis which is a first. Rick Pertile Sawyer county Get Outlook for Android<https://aka.ms/ghei36>
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Russell Schrinner <schrinner...> Sent: Sunday, February 17, 2019 10:04:47 PM To: <dmarc-noreply...> Cc: <jfreiberg80...>; <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls this winter
I have seen no redpolls here in Jackson county, either. Also, only a couple of pine siskins.
Sent from my iPad
> On Feb 17, 2019, at 3:56 PM, Suzanne Harp (Redacted sender "suzharp" for DMARC) <dmarc-noreply...> wrote: > > I have been wondering that myself. Im in Madison and have not seen any this year. > Suzanne Harp > > > > >> On Feb 17, 2019, at 12:00 PM, Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> wrote: >> >> I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers >> down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg >> Southern Fond du Lac County >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/17/19 8:05 pm From: Russell Schrinner <schrinner...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls this winter
I have seen no redpolls here in Jackson county, either. Also, only a couple of pine siskins.
Sent from my iPad
> On Feb 17, 2019, at 3:56 PM, Suzanne Harp (Redacted sender "suzharp" for DMARC) <dmarc-noreply...> wrote: > > I have been wondering that myself. I’m in Madison and have not seen any this year. > Suzanne Harp > > > > >> On Feb 17, 2019, at 12:00 PM, Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> wrote: >> >> I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers >> down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg >> Southern Fond du Lac County >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Last winter I had 100 Redpolls a day. They were raining from the trees there were so many, crazy irruptive year at my station. I was using 50#'s of thistle/nyjer a month. This year....not one Redpoll. A couple of Pine Siskins and that's it. In fact it is an off year for the usual suspects as well
Owen Hanson Stevens Point, WI
On 2/17/19, Mark Korducki <korducki...> wrote: > Redpolls like most winter finches are irruptive and their numbers vary > considerably from one year to the next depending on natural food supplies. > This is a down year for redpolls and there have only been a few sightings > around the state. > > Mark Korducki, New Berlin > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Feb 17, 2019, at 3:56 PM, Suzanne Harp (Redacted sender "suzharp" for >> DMARC) <dmarc-noreply...> wrote: >> >> I have been wondering that myself. I’m in Madison and have not seen any >> this year. >> Suzanne Harp >> >> >> >> >>> On Feb 17, 2019, at 12:00 PM, Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> >>> wrote: >>> >>> I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers >>> down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg >>> Southern Fond du Lac County >>> >>> #################### >>> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin >>> Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >>> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >>> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >>> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >>> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >>> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >>> >>> >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin >> Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding > Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn
Date: 2/17/19 3:19 pm From: Mark Korducki <korducki...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls this winter
Redpolls like most winter finches are irruptive and their numbers vary considerably from one year to the next depending on natural food supplies. This is a down year for redpolls and there have only been a few sightings around the state.
Mark Korducki, New Berlin Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 17, 2019, at 3:56 PM, Suzanne Harp (Redacted sender "suzharp" for DMARC) <dmarc-noreply...> wrote: > > I have been wondering that myself. I’m in Madison and have not seen any this year. > Suzanne Harp > > > > >> On Feb 17, 2019, at 12:00 PM, Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> wrote: >> >> I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers >> down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg >> Southern Fond du Lac County >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/17/19 1:59 pm From: Suzanne Harp <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender suzharp for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls this winter
I have been wondering that myself. I’m in Madison and have not seen any this year. Suzanne Harp
> On Feb 17, 2019, at 12:00 PM, Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> wrote: > > I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers > down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg > Southern Fond du Lac County > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/17/19 11:40 am From: Kenneth Younger <kyounger...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Is There a Way to Search eBird by Route?
Not that I'm aware of. The best that I've found is to use eBird's hotspot map (https://ebird.org/hotspots) and just sort of look at what's along your route. It's not a perfect solution, because that only shows public hotspots, but it usually works well enough. You can even limit that view to show activity at the hotspots for specific time frames (e.g. the last month, to see where reports are being generated recently). Also, I'll look at rare bird reports for the counties along my way -- that will sometimes produce spots to stop (and maybe even target birds) that wouldn't necessarily be revealed from public hotspots. But yeah, currently it's a manual compilation. Another approach is to join other email lists or facebook groups for those states and mention your route and see if you can crowdsource the info.
I've often wished for something like this with regard to weather; especially in spring. I might be willing to take an extra 30 minute detour if I can avoid a line of storms, for example.
eBird could build something like this, but it's actually a reasonably difficult computational problem, to the degree that it would probably be prohibitively expensive for them to do so. A company like Google would probably have the resources, but would have to collaborate with eBird on sourcing the data. So, probably unlikely we'll see this anytime soon!
May the rare birds find you, -Kenny Younger Fort Worth, TX (formerly Madison, WI)
On Sun, Feb 17, 2019 at 9:39 AM Steve Betchkal <stevebetchkal...> wrote:
> This is how I bird - often in unfamiliar locales. I know where I'm headed, > along a specific route. Is there a way to plot that route on eBird, so that > I can then see the concentrations of desired birds, or best locales along a > given route? In other words - kind of a hybrid between google maps and > eBird? Searching the opposite way - starting with the bird or locale (on > eBird) and then trying to see if it's anywhere near my route, is very > user-unfriendly... > Steve Betchkal > Eau Claire > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> Sent: Sunday, February 17, 2019 12:00 PM To: <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Redpolls this winter
I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg Southern Fond du Lac County
Date: 2/17/19 10:41 am From: Tim Hahn <thahnbirder...> Subject: [wisb] Postponed - Goss Bird Club - 7:00 PM, 2/17
The Goss Bird Club meeting scheduled for tonight will not be taking place. If you were looking forward to hearing about the Walk to Sustain Our Great Lakes, we will have the same program on April 14, including a new trailer for their film The Worth of Water.
Tim Hahn Pewaukee, WI Waukesha Cty WBBA II Coordinator Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club
On Sun, Feb 10, 2019, 11:39 AM Tim Hahn <thahnbirder...> wrote:
> Join the Goss Bird Club next Sunday 2/17 evening at Retzer Nature Center > in Waukesha for a inspiring story of two women who walked hundreds of miles > for fresh water! The Great Lakes are crucial to the survival of birds, > animals, plants, and people, and they are facing intense pressures. Julia > and Alyssa took steps, (many steps!) that most could not, to highlight the > importance of the largest freshwater system in the world. Come hear their > story and be inspired! > > Refreshments are served at 6:45. Presentation starts at 7:00 with a > business meeting to follow. > > https://www.facebook.com/WSOGL/ > > www.gossbirdclub.org > https://www.facebook.com/gossbirdclub/ > > Cheers! > > Tim Hahn > Pewaukee, WI > Waukesha County > > >
Date: 2/17/19 10:13 am From: jeffrey fortier <jfortier300...> Subject: [wisb] Port Washington
My wife and I spent a few hours at Port Washington yesterday and there were some nice finds. The standouts were the Red Throated Loon, White Winged Scoter. and a River Otter along Coal Dock Park. I have attached some my favorite images of the day if you would like to see them . https://www.flickr.com/photos/149838167@N06/albums/72157706905129274
Date: 2/17/19 10:08 am From: Tim Hahn <thahnbirder...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Redpolls this winter
Hi Jim, Just like other birds, redpolls migrate I search of food. We see them in WI when food is scarce up north and we don't see them when food is abundant. Last year was a rather good year to see redpolls in WI. This year has not been so far.
Tim Hahn Pewaukee, WI Waukesha Cty WBBA II Coordinator Benjamin F. Goss Bird Clu
On Sun, Feb 17, 2019, 12:01 PM Jim Freiberg <jfreiberg80...> wrote:
> I have not had any Redpolls at the feeder this winter. Are their numbers > down or is it just me. Jim Freiberg > Southern Fond du Lac County > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/17/19 8:46 am From: Wayne Kuhn <waylin98...> Subject: [wisb] Eastern Meadowlark in Brown County
I found my FOY Horned Larks feeding at the roadside along Willow Road just east of the intersection with Grandview Road, east of Green Bay. On Buyarski Road just north of the intersection with Willow Road I flushed another bird that was feeding next to the road. By the fluttering wing beats I immediately knew it was a Meadowlark! It landed after a short distance and I got good views of his yellow chest. Thankfully it also called out several times confirming that it was an Eastern Meadowlark.
As I continued my travels along country roads I saw quite a few more Horned Larks now that the deep snow has pushed them to the roadsides.
Date: 2/17/19 8:39 am From: Timothy Lewis <lewistimothy...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Is There a Way to Search eBird by Route?
That would be really helpful! I have had good luck checking spots in shorter route areas. Last weekend I went to Rhode Island. To plan the trip, I saw heavier reporting with Narragansett sort of in the center (filtered for current year). I found a B&B less than a mile from the hot spot with the most species reported (Trustom Pond NWR). I then pulled up other nearby reports to plan my weekend, focusing on potential lifers and species I had not seen much of (like male Harlequin ducks). I called Rhode Island Audubon to make sure I was on the right track. I ended up visiting Trustom Pond NWR, Ninigret NWR, Beavertail State Park, Sachuest Point NWR, and Norman Bird Sanctuary. I also scoured inlets, harbors and bays around Jamestown and Newport. I ended up with 51 species, 4 lifers (plus the male Harlequins) and two "special bird behaviors".
Best regards,
Tim Lewis 401 N Main St Unit A Thiensville, WI 53092
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Steve Betchkal <stevebetchkal...> Sent: Sunday, February 17, 2019 9:38 AM To: <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Is There a Way to Search eBird by Route?
This is how I bird - often in unfamiliar locales. I know where I'm headed, along a specific route. Is there a way to plot that route on eBird, so that I can then see the concentrations of desired birds, or best locales along a given route? In other words - kind of a hybrid between google maps and eBird? Searching the opposite way - starting with the bird or locale (on eBird) and then trying to see if it's anywhere near my route, is very user-unfriendly... Steve Betchkal Eau Claire
Date: 2/17/19 7:39 am From: Steve Betchkal <stevebetchkal...> Subject: [wisb] Is There a Way to Search eBird by Route?
This is how I bird - often in unfamiliar locales. I know where I'm headed, along a specific route. Is there a way to plot that route on eBird, so that I can then see the concentrations of desired birds, or best locales along a given route? In other words - kind of a hybrid between google maps and eBird? Searching the opposite way - starting with the bird or locale (on eBird) and then trying to see if it's anywhere near my route, is very user-unfriendly... Steve Betchkal Eau Claire
Date: 2/16/19 6:40 pm From: Peter Fissel <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender peter.fissel for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Sauk Co. Varied Thrush today
Steve Thiessen, Pat Ready and I went up to Sauk Co. this morning to look for the previously reported Varied Thrush. We also were hoping to find a Golden Eagle. We were successful on both species, fortunately.
We had our first Golden Eagle on the way to Leland via County PF. Steve spotted it perched up on top of a bluff just east of Oscar Dr. (a private driveway,) about a half-mile west of Tower Bluff elementary school. It took off as I was getting the scope out of the car, so we had good looks at the dihedral wings and tawny nape. It was probably a near-adult bird, as we didn't see any obvious lighter patches, although our view of it flying was brief. The second was as we were coming back from Leland, also along PF, maybe two miles east of Tower Bluff. This one was soaring when we spotted it, and was obviously a younger bird, with well-defined white patches in the center of each wing and a lighter base to the tail. It also characteristically began each wingbeat with a downstroke.
We got to Reich Dr. north of Leland around 9:30 or so. We found the house, and enjoyed the activity at the feeders - lots of Blue Jays, Cardinals, nuthatches, woodpeckers, Tufted Titmice, etc. After a half an hour or so, I was about to suggest that we try cruising the area, when Pat spotted the Varied Thrush as it briefly landed on a branch in a tree in front of the house. Steve and I had a quick look at it as it flushed. The pattern was obvious even in that brief look at it flying. We thought it had landed near the garage, so got out to look over the snowbank, but Pat saw it back behind and to the south of the house. He tried to get us on it, but it flushed again and Steve thought he saw it fly further south. Jim Frank arrived shortly after that. I see he got it not long after we left.
The homeowner did come out to ask us what we were doing, after we had seen the bird. While she was cordial, she didn't seem overly pleased that the location had become widely known. She also indicated that the bird spooks easily, and usually only comes briefly in the mornings.
Other than a few Horned Larks, we saw no field birds flushing from the roadsides, even though the shoulders were plowed well back from the roadway. The snow is probably too deep and crusty.
Steve already mentioned all the Bald Eagles at the Prairie du Sac dam - pretty amazing. None of us could recall ever seeing so many there.
Join members of the Horicon Marsh Bird Club on Thursday Feb 21st at 7 PM for a rare chance to unveil an exceptionally preserved specimen of an extinct bird that once darkened the skies of Wisconsin. A mounted Passenger Pigeon that had been in the family of Drew Pattee for generations was just recently donated to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to be displayed at the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center.
It is believed that the bird was taken near Alto, WI by William Drew (W.D). Pattee (1858-1925) as a young man. This prized specimen, along with many other birds were passed along to his heirs until this past fall when they decided to donate the taxidermied mounts to the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center for public display.
On this special night, we will have a brief unveiling ceremony with members of the donor family in attendance, followed by a presentation "Lost Birds of Wisconsin" by Horicon Marsh Bird Club President, Jeff Bahls.
Learn about the demise of a bird that once numbered in the billions along with information about birds that are no longer in Wisconsin. Examples of birds that are now extinct as well as other birds that previously nested in Wisconsin but no longer call this state home will also be discussed. Several of these species now have drastically reduced ranges in today’s landscape.
A special thanks to Curt Muche of Curt’s Taxidermy in Mayville, WI for cleaning and remounting these historic specimens!
The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center is located between Horicon and Mayville on Highway 28. For a detailed list of all Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center special events, please visit the Friends of Horicon Marsh website at www.horiconmarsh.org. Horicon Marsh Bird Club information can be found at www.horiconmarshbirdclub.com. Free event, and all ages are welcome. For more information, call 920-387-7893.
By the time I arrived at about 12:20 P.M., the Red-throated Loon had moved into the harbor. It was continuously diving and remaining submerged for long periods of time, but several times it came up fairly close to the walkway giving great views and could even be seen without optics. Thanks for the post, Jeff! I had tried for this species, which is fairly regular at that location in winter, several times without success. The lack of small fish (alewives, gizzard shad, etc.) has contributed to the lack of gulls this winter, driving most of them to landfills I suspect, but a landfill is not an option for a loon, so I was pessimistic about seeing one in Port Washington. I hope this bird finds enough fish to make it through the winter. After Port Washington, I went to Harrington Beach and found only Common Goldeneye, Red-breasted Mergansers, and fly-by Greater Scaup on the lake. I always try to remember to bring some seed, and I enjoyed the very tame Chickadees. When I drove out, the Northern Shrike was perched on the south side of the park road, not far from the entrance station. Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County
-----Original Message----- From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> [mailto:<wisbirdn-bounce...>] On Behalf Of Jeff Baughman Sent: Saturday, February 16, 2019 10:10 AM To: wisbirdn Subject: [wisb] Red-throated Loon
Just a heads up that I observed a Red-throated Loon from the Coal Dock Park in Port Washington about 20 minutes ago. The bird was seen from the middle of the 3 overlooks at the east end of the park. It was feeding frequently out on the lake and would move several 100 yards before surfacing again. I did have good scope looks at it 3-4 times before it disappeared. It’s probably still in the area so with some patients and warm clothes your chances are good you’ll relocate the bird. Of the 3 gulls (individuals) I saw in the harbor area, one was a Great Black-backed. The other 2 were Herring. Where are all the gulls this winter? Quite the change from past years especially last year.
Good luck and good birding. Jeff Baughman Campbellsport FDL County
Date: 2/16/19 2:04 pm From: Steve <stevethiessen...> Subject: [wisb] Bald Eagles, Prairie du Sac Dam
Peter Fissel ,Pat Ready and I stopped at the dam, on our way home, from birding up in Sauk County. I counted over 65, in one quick scan. From the dam and through both towns, 100 Bald Eagles would be a fair estimate. Viewing is excellent and many eagles would land very close. We saw 2 Golden Eagles, while going through the hills , in Sauk County. Steve Thiessen Stoughton Dane Co.
Date: 2/16/19 8:11 am From: Jeff Baughman <jlbirder...> Subject: [wisb] Red-throated Loon
Just a heads up that I observed a Red-throated Loon from the Coal Dock Park in Port Washington about 20 minutes ago. The bird was seen from the middle of the 3 overlooks at the east end of the park. It was feeding frequently out on the lake and would move several 100 yards before surfacing again. I did have good scope looks at it 3-4 times before it disappeared. It’s probably still in the area so with some patients and warm clothes your chances are good you’ll relocate the bird. Of the 3 gulls (individuals) I saw in the harbor area, one was a Great Black-backed. The other 2 were Herring. Where are all the gulls this winter? Quite the change from past years especially last year.
Good luck and good birding. Jeff Baughman Campbellsport FDL County
Date: 2/15/19 1:56 pm From: Alan & Joan Linquist <linquists...> Subject: [wisb] Northern Kettle Moraine
Last year, I had the time to bird the Northern Kettle Moraine on a regular basis. This year, things won't be so easy. That also goes for finding birds up there. I stopped by sometime in early January and all of the water was open and I hardly saw any birds. This afternoon, I got away to look at some of the lakes. They are now frozen over solid with no openings at all. Maybe its because it was early afternoon? Just a guess. I saw a few crows, a blue jay, a few chickadees and a few mourning doves. The only open water was near the Dundee mill race. There I saw my only waterfowl: several Goldeneyes. Surprisingly, I saw no Canada Geese, not even goose poop on the Dundee mill trail. Hopefully, I'll get a better chance in early March. Alan LinquistWashington County #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn
Date: 2/15/19 1:53 pm From: Shawn Miller <608shawnmiller...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Sauk County Varied Thrush
Good afternoon. I am the owner of two of those eBird checklist.s where the bird was NOT found. One from Wednesday and one from Thursday. Each time I sat in front of the home on the street in my car for 90120 minutes. No hint of the bird either time. On Thursday I also slowly drove around town trying to check into yards and feeders from the road. No luck in that effort either.
Thanks, --Shawn Miller Dane County
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Eric Hamburg <ehamburg...> Sent: Friday, February 15, 2019 3:42 PM To: <dmmowers...> Cc: <jenthreat...>; Aaron Balogh; Birders Subject: [wisb] Re: Sauk County Varied Thrush
As one of those who did find the Varied Thrush on Monday, I went back again today to that site, but had no luck finding it. It had also been reported at another site in the Leland area, but also no luck there.
Eric Hamburg Baraboo, WI
> On Feb 15, 2019, at 3:30 PM, Dave Mowers <dmmowers...> wrote: > > I saw this bird very briefly on Monday morning in front of a home just > north of the Hemlock/Reich Rd intersection, near a birdfeeder that it has > been frequenting for a while. We attempted to contact the homeowner for > permission, but the feeder is clearly visible from the public road (which > is very very lightly traveled). > To my knowledge, the last time this bird was seen was Monday afternoon, a > couple hours after I saw it. It looks like there are several e-bird reports > in the area over the last few days but no thrush. > > Sorry I can't be more helpful! > > > > > The Rev. Dave Mowers > 115 6th Ave. > Baraboo, WI 53913 > <dmmowers...> > > "People notice peacemakers because they dress funny. We know how people who > make war dress - in uniforms and medals, or in computers and clipboards, or > in absoluteness, severity, greed and cynicism. But the peacemaker is > dressed in righteousness, justice and faithfulness - dressed for the work > that is to be done." - Walter Brueggemann > > > On Fri, Feb 15, 2019 at 3:22 PM Jennifer Ambrose <jenthreat...> > wrote: > >> I've been dying to see one of these birds within a few hours from home, >> too. I'd love to know any information as well. >> Jennifer Ambrose >> Milwaukee >> >> On Fri, Feb 15, 2019, 2:46 PM Aaron Balogh <crotalus269...> wrote: >> >>> Hello All, >>> According to eBird the Sauk County Varied Thrush was seen as recently as >>> 2/11. Is this bird still being seen and is the homeowner accepting >>> visitors? I'm interested in trying to see it this weekend if possible. >>> >>> >>> Thanks, >>> >>> -Aaron Balogh >>> Middleton, WI >>> >>> >>> #################### >>> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin >>> Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >>> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >>> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >>> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >>> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >>> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin >> Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> >> > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/15/19 1:42 pm From: Eric Hamburg <ehamburg...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Sauk County Varied Thrush
As one of those who did find the Varied Thrush on Monday, I went back again today to that site, but had no luck finding it. It had also been reported at another site in the Leland area, but also no luck there.
Eric Hamburg Baraboo, WI
> On Feb 15, 2019, at 3:30 PM, Dave Mowers <dmmowers...> wrote: > > I saw this bird very briefly on Monday morning in front of a home just > north of the Hemlock/Reich Rd intersection, near a birdfeeder that it has > been frequenting for a while. We attempted to contact the homeowner for > permission, but the feeder is clearly visible from the public road (which > is very very lightly traveled). > To my knowledge, the last time this bird was seen was Monday afternoon, a > couple hours after I saw it. It looks like there are several e-bird reports > in the area over the last few days but no thrush. > > Sorry I can't be more helpful! > > > > > The Rev. Dave Mowers > 115 6th Ave. > Baraboo, WI 53913 > <dmmowers...> > > "People notice peacemakers because they dress funny. We know how people who > make war dress - in uniforms and medals, or in computers and clipboards, or > in absoluteness, severity, greed and cynicism. But the peacemaker is > dressed in righteousness, justice and faithfulness - dressed for the work > that is to be done." - Walter Brueggemann > > > On Fri, Feb 15, 2019 at 3:22 PM Jennifer Ambrose <jenthreat...> > wrote: > >> I've been dying to see one of these birds within a few hours from home, >> too. I'd love to know any information as well. >> Jennifer Ambrose >> Milwaukee >> >> On Fri, Feb 15, 2019, 2:46 PM Aaron Balogh <crotalus269...> wrote: >> >>> Hello All, >>> According to eBird the Sauk County Varied Thrush was seen as recently as >>> 2/11. Is this bird still being seen and is the homeowner accepting >>> visitors? I'm interested in trying to see it this weekend if possible. >>> >>> >>> Thanks, >>> >>> -Aaron Balogh >>> Middleton, WI >>> >>> >>> #################### >>> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin >>> Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >>> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >>> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >>> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >>> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >>> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin >> Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: >> http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn >> >> >> > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/15/19 1:31 pm From: Dave Mowers <dmmowers...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Sauk County Varied Thrush
I saw this bird very briefly on Monday morning in front of a home just north of the Hemlock/Reich Rd intersection, near a birdfeeder that it has been frequenting for a while. We attempted to contact the homeowner for permission, but the feeder is clearly visible from the public road (which is very very lightly traveled). To my knowledge, the last time this bird was seen was Monday afternoon, a couple hours after I saw it. It looks like there are several e-bird reports in the area over the last few days but no thrush.
Sorry I can't be more helpful!
The Rev. Dave Mowers 115 6th Ave. Baraboo, WI 53913 <dmmowers...>
"People notice peacemakers because they dress funny. We know how people who make war dress - in uniforms and medals, or in computers and clipboards, or in absoluteness, severity, greed and cynicism. But the peacemaker is dressed in righteousness, justice and faithfulness - dressed for the work that is to be done." - Walter Brueggemann
On Fri, Feb 15, 2019 at 3:22 PM Jennifer Ambrose <jenthreat...> wrote:
> I've been dying to see one of these birds within a few hours from home, > too. I'd love to know any information as well. > Jennifer Ambrose > Milwaukee > > On Fri, Feb 15, 2019, 2:46 PM Aaron Balogh <crotalus269...> wrote: > > > Hello All, > > According to eBird the Sauk County Varied Thrush was seen as recently as > > 2/11. Is this bird still being seen and is the homeowner accepting > > visitors? I'm interested in trying to see it this weekend if possible. > > > > > > Thanks, > > > > -Aaron Balogh > > Middleton, WI > > > > > > #################### > > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > > > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/15/19 1:22 pm From: Jennifer Ambrose <jenthreat...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Sauk County Varied Thrush
I've been dying to see one of these birds within a few hours from home, too. I'd love to know any information as well. Jennifer Ambrose Milwaukee
On Fri, Feb 15, 2019, 2:46 PM Aaron Balogh <crotalus269...> wrote:
> Hello All, > According to eBird the Sauk County Varied Thrush was seen as recently as > 2/11. Is this bird still being seen and is the homeowner accepting > visitors? I'm interested in trying to see it this weekend if possible. > > > Thanks, > > -Aaron Balogh > Middleton, WI > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Hello All, According to eBird the Sauk County Varied Thrush was seen as recently as 2/11. Is this bird still being seen and is the homeowner accepting visitors? I'm interested in trying to see it this weekend if possible.
Date: 2/14/19 5:59 pm From: Jim Edlhuber <jimedlhuber...> Subject: [wisb] Great Horned Owls, a nesting pair in MKE Co. 2/14/19, some images...
Hi all, It was nice to come across a pair of nesting Great Horned Owls late morning. The female was on the nest up high while the male was perched high too in a spruce tree about 100 feet away. First nesting pair of the year for me. It was a beautiful day, almost felt like spring. Temps around 40, started out with a little sun but clouded over around noon, with low winds.
A link to a couple of Great Horned Owl images from today at this link if you care to view them:
Date: 2/14/19 9:45 am From: Dave & Margaret Brasser <2shebbirders...> Subject: [wisb] SE Arizona Birding Roadtrip Report - LONG
Friday Jan. 18: Left Sheboygan. Tuesday Jan. 22: Entered Arizona on I-10. After 2000 miles of driving across our beautiful country, we arrived at the Santa Rita Lodge in Madera Canyon (just east of Green Valley) and stayed through Saturday morning, Jan. 26. [No restaurant. Take groceries along! Efficiency kitchen. No cell phone reception. Spotty internet.] Along with many other birders, we spent our days watching the variety of birds at the amazing feeder set-up at the Lodge (parking area for day-birders) or walking the paved trail from Proctor Road parking area to Whitehouse Picnic Area (gentle uphill grade; 3/4-mile one way). Arizona specialties seen at the feeder set-up: Acorn Woodpeckers, Annas Hummingbird, Arizona Woodpeckers, Bewicks Wrens, Blue-throated Hummingbird, Bridled Titmice, Yellow-eyed Juncos, Hepatic Tanagers, Lesser Goldfinches, Mexican Jays, Northern (red-shafted) Flicker, Painted Redstart. Animal at a sugar water feeder: Coatimundi (hilarious!). Specialties seen along the trail from Proctor Road parking area to Whitehouse picnic area: Acorn Woodpeckers, Bridled Titmice, Huttons Vireos, Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Mexican Jays, Northern (red-shafted) Flicker, Red-naped Sapsucker, Townsends Solitaires, Townsends Warbler, Verdins, Western Bluebirds, WHITE-THROATED THRUSH (LIFER!)! Numerous butterflies! : ) Thursday morning, Jan. 25, we hiked a mile up the steep, rocky Florida Canyon Trail. Did NOT see the Rufous-capped Warbler [again! This is the fifth trip that weve looked for it! : ( ], though others saw it on other days. On that trail we did see Bewicks Wren, Canyon Towhee, Hammonds Flycatcher, Huttons Vireo, Lesser Goldfinches, Northern (red-shafted) Flicker, Spotted Towhee. [When we got groceries in Sahuarita: 2 Roadrunners!]
Monday Jan. 28: After staying in Green Valley for two nights, we moved a few miles south. At Amado (Exit 48 on I-19) we stopped at the small wastewater treatment pond and found ducks also found in Wisconsin, plus Eared Grebes, Great-tailed Grackles, Vermillion Flycatcher, Says Phoebe. Then it was on to Rancho Santa Cruz B&B for three nights [http://ranchosantacruz.us/index.html]. (Exit 29 on I-19) This is a great new birding spot, since the Santa Cruz River and the De Anza Trail cross the entire 115-acre ranch and are well-known for birdssome rare. The ranch has been designated an Important Bird Area by Tucson Audubon. (Take groceries for lunch and supper. Barbecue grill. Communal refrigerator.) There is a parking area where day-birders are welcome to park, enjoy the birds around the buildings, and walk the well-marked trails to the Santa Cruz River. From the familys experience while working on restoring the historic but derelict ranch buildings (which took two years), migration brings an incredible number and variety of birds through the ranch. Specialties we saw in and around the ranch compound: Aberts Towhees, Bewicks Wren, Black Phoebe, Bridled Titmice, Gila Woodpeckers, Green-tailed Towhee, Inca Doves, Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Lesser Goldfinches, Northern (red-shafted) Flickers, Phainopepla, Plumbeous Vireo, Spotted Towhee, Vermillion Flycatcher, White-winged Doves. Green Kingfishers are regularly seen and Rose-throated Becards have nested along the Santa Cruz River on the property.
Thursday Jan. 31: We drove south on I-19 to Exit 12, and then west on Hwy 289 to 52-acre, man-made Pea Blanca Lake. First time we had been there, and found it to be beautiful and peaceful. Specialties seen here: Cinnamon Teals, Says Phoebe, Hammonds Flycatcher, Black Phoebes. Back to I-19, we took the east bypass around Nogales and got on Hwy 82 northeast to Patagonia, staying at the Stage Stop Inn (the only place around). Several times we went to Tucson Audubons Paton Center for Hummingbirds (and lots of other birds!) on the southwest corner of this tiny town and artist colony. [http://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/tucson-audubons-paton-center-for-hummin gbirds/ ] Specialties found here: Aberts Towhees, Bewicks Wrens, Black Phoebes, Bridled Titmice, Broad-billed Hummingbirds, Curve-billed Thrasher, Gila Woodpeckers, Inca Doves, Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, Lark Sparrows, Lazuli Buntings, Lesser Goldfinches, Plumbeous Vireo, Pyrrhuloxia, Rufous-winged Sparrows, VIOLET-CROWNED HUMMINGBIRD, White-winged Doves.
Saturday Feb. 2: We moved to Sierra Vista for five nights. Saw 14 species of birds right around our motel, which had large vacant lots to the south and west of the property (dry grasses, shrubs, trees). Specialties seen here: Gambels Quail, Mockingbird, White-winged Doves, Bewicks Wren, Gila Woodpeckers, Curve-billed Thrashers, Pyrrhuloxias, Verdins, Annas Hummingbird. This is also where the common ravens are Chihuahuan Ravens. Seven miles east of Sierra Vista is the San Pedro House Riparian Area. We just birded around the house (gift shop and sighting reports), but there are good trails to and along the San Pedro River. Specialties seen here: Chihuahuan Ravens, Common Ground-Doves, Curve-billed Thrashers, Gila Woodpeckers, Green-tailed Towhees, Lesser Goldfinches, Pyrrhuloxias, Says Phoebes, Western Screech Owl (LIFER!), White-winged Doves
Thursday Feb. 7: We drove east to Bisbee and took Double Adobe Road east to Frontier Road. On the 8-mile drive north to Davis Road we found an astonishing number of birds, including these specialties: Prairie Falcon, Pyrrhuloxia, Loggerhead Shrikes, Black-throated Sparrows, Brewers Blackbirds, Cactus Wren, Chihuahuan Ravens, Canyon Towhee, Curve-billed Thrasher, Roadrunner. Nearby was fabulous Whitewater Draw Natural Area, with over 10,000 very vocal Sandhill Cranes, a Great-Horned Owl on a nest on a rafter at one end of the (empty) hay shed, Snow and Ross Geese, Cinnamon Teal, Greater Yellowlegs, Black and Says Phoebes, Chihuahuan Ravens, and ducks we see in Wisconsin. On the south side of Willcox is Twin Valley Lakes Golf Course and Lake Cochise, and there were birds to be found here, too: hundreds of ducks and one Eurasian Wigeon, Curve-billed Thrasher, Says Phoebe.
After all these great days of birding and beautiful weather, it was time to return to the cold and snowy Midwest.
-- Margaret & Dave Brasser Sheboygan Sheboygan County Safely back home, where the winter storms have passed and Spring will soon be upon us (we hope!)
Date: 2/13/19 1:22 pm From: Tom Wood <tcwood729...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Ross's Goose at the Mill Pond in South Milwaukee
I arrived at about 12:50 P.M. and another birder (maybe Todd?) got me on it right away. It seemed very relaxed and quite tame, resting on the snow with Canada geese at the northeast? corner of the pond very close to the road. I left after 10 minutes to go check the feeder in the park (nothing unusual) and returned to the Mill Pond at 1:30 P.M.and did not see it. Maybe something disturbed the geese or they felt the need to roam. Nice find by Todd and thanks to Rita for the post! Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County ---- KAREN JOHNSON <kmjbirders...> wrote: > I drove around and walked around the Mill Creek for 45 min. at 2PM today and did not see the Ross’s Goose. Maybe he’s hidden by the snow! > > Karen Johnson > Milwaukee County > > On Feb 13, 2019, at 10:29 AM, Rita Wiskowski <rita.birdnerd...> wrote: > > > > Todd Leech has reported that there is now a Ross's Goose at the Mill > > Pond/Grant Park in South Milwaukee. I wonder if it is the same one that was > > in Oak Creek a few days ago. > > > > Rita Flores Wiskowski > > South Milwaukee > > > > > > #################### > > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/13/19 1:10 pm From: KAREN JOHNSON <kmjbirders...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Ross's Goose at the Mill Pond in South Milwaukee
I drove around and walked around the Mill Creek for 45 min. at 2PM today and did not see the Ross’s Goose. Maybe he’s hidden by the snow!
Karen Johnson Milwaukee County > On Feb 13, 2019, at 10:29 AM, Rita Wiskowski <rita.birdnerd...> wrote: > > Todd Leech has reported that there is now a Ross's Goose at the Mill > Pond/Grant Park in South Milwaukee. I wonder if it is the same one that was > in Oak Creek a few days ago. > > Rita Flores Wiskowski > South Milwaukee > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/13/19 11:17 am From: Steve <stevethiessen...> Subject: [wisb] Johnson Creek Gulls
I stopped at Johnson Creek, today. All the loafing gulls were over by Kohl’s, south of the interstate. I watched from 10 till 11, and the flock grew to well over 400. It was tough to sort through all the gulls, with many being blocked by others. There was 1 adult Great Black-backed, 2 immature Glaucous, 1 light first winter Iceland. There was also 1 black-backed I couldn’t get a look at and a possible second winter Thayer’s. I never saw an adult Thayer’s type today. Of course ,when I was in the turn lane, to go home, all the gulls got up and were circling. Steve Thiessen Stoughton Dane co.
Date: 2/13/19 9:03 am From: Peter Fissel <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender peter.fissel for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Signs of Spring...
Or at least of the increasing daylight length. I've been hearing Cardinals singing occasionally for the last week or so as I walk to the bus stop in the mornings, but yesterday, while digging out and refilling the bird feeders, the House Finches and Juncos were also singing. Cheery sound in the midst of the ice and snow...
Date: 2/13/19 8:30 am From: Rita Wiskowski <rita.birdnerd...> Subject: [wisb] Ross's Goose at the Mill Pond in South Milwaukee
Todd Leech has reported that there is now a Ross's Goose at the Mill Pond/Grant Park in South Milwaukee. I wonder if it is the same one that was in Oak Creek a few days ago.
eBirders be forewarned, many "common" but challenging to identify species have tightened filters during this time (e.g. Purple Finch, Carolina Wren, Red-headed Woodpecker) due to the large influx of novice birders using the system. We appreciate your patience! Everything will return to normal on 2/22 (the last possible date for the GBBC in any given year).
Hi bird lovers, I heard and saw a Pileated woodpecker at Picnic Pt. in Madison near noon today. It was near the edge of the woods on the west Side of the Biocore Prarie near the trail that goes from the road to the lake. I park in the small Frauchi parking lot and take the new trail past the Pumping station. I rarely see them in Madison. Judy Middleton
Date: 2/10/19 3:21 pm From: Joe Riederer <wisbird.riederer...> Subject: [wisb] Any suggestions for waterfowl in winter?
I thought I would share a few photos from this weekend. If anyone has suggestions for places with open water to see waterfowl in winter I’d love to hear about it. -
Same here. I was there at noon today. No geese. Ho hum.... Karen
Karen Johnson Milwaukee County
Sent from my iPad
> On Feb 10, 2019, at 3:00 PM, Tom Wood <tcwood729...> wrote: > > I checked the area described by Rita at about 10:00 A.M. this morning and again at about 1:00 P.M. and saw no geese. They may move around the area and eventually return, but I was unable to find them today. > Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County > ---- Rita Wiskowski <rita.birdnerd...> wrote: >> There's a Ross's Goose in a neighborhood in the city of Oak Creek. There >> are a couple of dozen Canada Geese and the Ross's. The best way to get >> there is to look for the address 955 E. Orchard Ct, Oak Creek. Orchard Ct >> is a cul du sac and near the end of the cul du sac is a small pond. A small >> creek runs near it too. The geese were walking along the creek and iced >> over pond and through back yards, but are very visible from the end of >> Orchard Court this morning and afternoon. >> Rita Flores Wiskowski >> Southern Milwaukee County >> >> >> #################### >> You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). >> To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn >> Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn
I checked the area described by Rita at about 10:00 A.M. this morning and again at about 1:00 P.M. and saw no geese. They may move around the area and eventually return, but I was unable to find them today. Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County ---- Rita Wiskowski <rita.birdnerd...> wrote: > There's a Ross's Goose in a neighborhood in the city of Oak Creek. There > are a couple of dozen Canada Geese and the Ross's. The best way to get > there is to look for the address 955 E. Orchard Ct, Oak Creek. Orchard Ct > is a cul du sac and near the end of the cul du sac is a small pond. A small > creek runs near it too. The geese were walking along the creek and iced > over pond and through back yards, but are very visible from the end of > Orchard Court this morning and afternoon. > Rita Flores Wiskowski > Southern Milwaukee County > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/10/19 9:40 am From: Tim Hahn <thahnbirder...> Subject: [wisb] Walk to Save Our Great Lakes - Goss Bird Club - 7:00 PM, 2/17
Join the Goss Bird Club next Sunday 2/17 evening at Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha for a inspiring story of two women who walked hundreds of miles for fresh water! The Great Lakes are crucial to the survival of birds, animals, plants, and people, and they are facing intense pressures. Julia and Alyssa took steps, (many steps!) that most could not, to highlight the importance of the largest freshwater system in the world. Come hear their story and be inspired! Refreshments are served at 6:45. Presentation starts at 7:00 with a business meeting to follow.
Hello friends: Made a visit to Port Washington harbor this afternoon. About 1,00 Canada Geese. Not too much activity in the harbor area, except for this nice Goldeneye, at a distance of about 20 feet.
This site and South Shore Yacht Club area are probably my two favorite duck areas, although there are many others.
There's a Ross's Goose in a neighborhood in the city of Oak Creek. There are a couple of dozen Canada Geese and the Ross's. The best way to get there is to look for the address 955 E. Orchard Ct, Oak Creek. Orchard Ct is a cul du sac and near the end of the cul du sac is a small pond. A small creek runs near it too. The geese were walking along the creek and iced over pond and through back yards, but are very visible from the end of Orchard Court this morning and afternoon. Rita Flores Wiskowski Southern Milwaukee County
Date: 2/9/19 9:48 am From: Owen Hanson <wely09...> Subject: [wisb] Re: dove in trouble
Hi Sandy,
Hard to say from your description if the dove is in trouble( injured or ill)or if it is simply trying to stay warm. I have doves that camp out on my heated water feature from time to time and it is not uncommon for it to be only one. If you are overly concerned you could take it to a vet that can handle avian cases. That is if you can safely( for you and the bird) catch the dove. You could offer water and seed like safflower, black oil sunflower(whole or hearts) or maybe thistle(nyjer). Good luck
Owen Hanson Stevens Point, WI
On 2/9/19, Sandy Petersen <buboarcto2...> wrote: > A single mourning dove > sitting under the framework holding the heated water ... > alone ... in my porch corner ... > Sandy Petersen rural Dane county > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding > Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn
Date: 2/9/19 8:11 am From: Karen Etter Hale <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender chimneyswift1 for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Waxwings, North Ephraim, Door Co.
Hi Sue, Thanks for the good report. The High Point Inn in north Ephraim is exactly where I FINALLY found my first Bohemian Waxwings in Wisconsin! There were about 30 of them (no Cedars) feeding on the crabapples in front of the Inn yesterday morning.
Then, as soon as we got home yesterday, about 4:30 p.m., there were 28 Cedar Waxwings in our hackberry tree. These are the first I've seen anywhere in Lake Mills since Dec. 23, despite walking more than 50 miles all over town.
Any day is a good day when it's book-ended with waxwings!
Karen -- Karen Etter Hale Lake Mills, WI <chimneyswift1...>
***** Making time for birds
> On Jan 29, 2019, at 1:35 PM, Charles Peterson <suechick...> wrote: > > At One P.M. today I watched about 100 Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings feeding on berries at the trees in front of High Point Inn in north Ephraim. There was one Robin with them, a Crow watching further away. I'd guess about 60 Bohemians, 40 Cedar Waxwings. They fly up to the tall maples across the street to rest. High Point Inn is on Hwy 42. > Sue Peterson > > Ephraim > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/7/19 1:55 pm From: Thomas Erdman <ErdT4...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Snowy Owl Sightings in the Arlington/DeForest Area Columbia/Dane Counties
Gene, I suspect you are correct since the incident was on the roadway where a Snowy would not naturally sit. From what Ive seen Snowies are pretty wary of the eagles. Back in the old days before we the huge increase in eagles we use to have owls congregate around the open water at the mouth of the Fox River sitting on ice or on storage tanks. Now one can see dozens of eagles around the open water and the owls have moved out to Cat Island causeway about 1.5 miles north.
However, I dont doubt that an eagle can or would take a Snowy given the chance. I have lots of eagles wintering here and have watched adults take turkeys in the winter. I also had an adult in early summer attempt to take flightless Sandhill Crane colts crossing a road in the protection of the adults. It was standoff with adult cranes jumping and flapping as the eagle made passes. Our cranes here often take the young into the flooded woods/swamp to feed on frogs and probably protect them from eagles.
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Gene Jacobs <gene...> Sent: Tuesday, February 5, 2019 10:27:32 PM To: Mark Martin; WisBirdN Cc: MICHAEL G BERTRAM; David Brinker; <scottweidensaul...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Snowy Owl Sightings in the Arlington/DeForest Area Columbia/Dane Counties
Hi Mark, Very interesting encounter with the eagle and snowy. Just a thought, is it possible the owl was injured from an automobile strike, making it easier for the eagle to catch the snowy? Or is it possible the owl was already dead and the eagle was carrying away a road kill.
Thanks for the information,
Gene
*From:* Mark Martin [mailto:<marksuemartin...>] *Sent:* Tuesday, February 05, 2019 7:20 PM *To:* WisBirdN *Cc:* Gene Jacobs; MICHAEL G BERTRAM; David Brinker; <scottweidensaul...> *Subject:* Snowy Owl Sightings in the Arlington/DeForest Area Columbia/Dane Counties
Hello all,
On Monday January 28th the first snowy owl in the local area was reported at the UW Arlington Research Farms by Jerry Schulz who works at the farms. He spotted the bird which had prominent brown checkering along Badger Road between Highway 51 and Hopkins Road. We saw the owl twice that afternoon and also on February 1st when it was sitting on top of a silo on the south side of Badger Lane at the UW dairy farm.
On Wednesday the 30th, Jerry was driving on Goose Pond Road by the pond when he first saw an eagle in the road "jumping up and down" close to the Manthe farm on the north side of Goose Pond Road. As he approached he could see an adult eagle had just killed a snowy owl, and the eagle flushed carrying the owl to the west toward our house. We did not learn about this until today. A pair of eagles built a nest in a pine tree in the Manthe front yard five years ago but decided to nest three miles to the north west of Goose Pond Road. We frequently see bald eagles hunting at Goose Pond. That day felt like the arctic with a low of - 30 degrees and a high of -12 with -50 wind chill. Snowy owls can take the weather, but we have no idea why the eagle was able to take the owl or why the owl was in this location. It is sad to lose one of our feathered friends, and very surprising to see that it was taken by an eagle.
Diane Harvey reported in a previous email about an owl one mile east of DeForest on Saturday February 2nd at the intersection of Vinburn and Portage Road. In the past, that area and 1.5 miles north along Portage Road has been a good area to search for snowy owls. When driving around you may come by Snowy Owl Court that was named for the high number of snowy owls in the Township in the winter of 2014-2015.
Let us know if see any snowy owls in the Arlington DeForest Area.
Date: 2/6/19 12:17 pm From: Susan Hoffert <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender shoffert for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Turkeys
I can attest to how well the turkeys are doing this winter! As I type this, there are 17 gobbling up all the birdseed at our feeders. And I’ve been seeing far larger flocks in the fields a few miles away.
Susan Hoffert Gills Rock
Sent from my iPhone
> On Feb 6, 2019, at 1:16 PM, K Petersen <loonp...> wrote: > > Yesterday were drove over to our cottage in Marquette County for a winter > visit. We were somewhat surprised to see a large flock of turkeys in a field > near a woods. There must have been 60 of them. Apparently they are doing > well despite the record cold snap last week. > > > Kurt Petersen > > Sheboygan County > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 2/6/19 11:16 am From: K Petersen <loonp...> Subject: [wisb] Turkeys
Yesterday were drove over to our cottage in Marquette County for a winter visit. We were somewhat surprised to see a large flock of turkeys in a field near a woods. There must have been 60 of them. Apparently they are doing well despite the record cold snap last week.
Date: 2/5/19 8:29 pm From: Gene Jacobs <gene...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Snowy Owl Sightings in the Arlington/DeForest Area Columbia/Dane Counties
Hi Mark, Very interesting encounter with the eagle and snowy. Just a thought, is it possible the owl was injured from an automobile strike, making it easier for the eagle to catch the snowy? Or is it possible the owl was already dead and the eagle was carrying away a road kill.
Thanks for the information,
Gene
*From:* Mark Martin [mailto:<marksuemartin...>] *Sent:* Tuesday, February 05, 2019 7:20 PM *To:* WisBirdN *Cc:* Gene Jacobs; MICHAEL G BERTRAM; David Brinker; <scottweidensaul...> *Subject:* Snowy Owl Sightings in the Arlington/DeForest Area Columbia/Dane Counties
Hello all,
On Monday January 28th the first snowy owl in the local area was reported at the UW Arlington Research Farms by Jerry Schulz who works at the farms. He spotted the bird which had prominent brown checkering along Badger Road between Highway 51 and Hopkins Road. We saw the owl twice that afternoon and also on February 1st when it was sitting on top of a silo on the south side of Badger Lane at the UW dairy farm.
On Wednesday the 30th, Jerry was driving on Goose Pond Road by the pond when he first saw an eagle in the road "jumping up and down" close to the Manthe farm on the north side of Goose Pond Road. As he approached he could see an adult eagle had just killed a snowy owl, and the eagle flushed carrying the owl to the west toward our house. We did not learn about this until today. A pair of eagles built a nest in a pine tree in the Manthe front yard five years ago but decided to nest three miles to the north west of Goose Pond Road. We frequently see bald eagles hunting at Goose Pond. That day felt like the arctic with a low of - 30 degrees and a high of -12 with -50 wind chill. Snowy owls can take the weather, but we have no idea why the eagle was able to take the owl or why the owl was in this location. It is sad to lose one of our feathered friends, and very surprising to see that it was taken by an eagle.
Diane Harvey reported in a previous email about an owl one mile east of DeForest on Saturday February 2nd at the intersection of Vinburn and Portage Road. In the past, that area and 1.5 miles north along Portage Road has been a good area to search for snowy owls. When driving around you may come by Snowy Owl Court that was named for the high number of snowy owls in the Township in the winter of 2014-2015.
Let us know if see any snowy owls in the Arlington DeForest Area.
Date: 2/5/19 5:29 pm From: Mark Martin <marksuemartin...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Pheasant Survives Cold Snap But Not Cooper's Hawk
Hi A number of years ago when we had very high pheasant number we had Cooper's hawks hunting pheasants and catching mostly hens. We will always remember looking out the window to the south wetland and seeing a flock of 62 roosters and 3 hens. Deep snow really exposes the birds especially when they are searching for food. It is important to provide shelter and food. Today we saw 15 - 20 pheasants fly into our sorghum and sunflower food plot. Mark and Sue Foote-Martin, Goose Pond Sanctuary, Columbia County Arlington
On Sat, Feb 2, 2019 at 1:44 PM K Petersen <loonp...> wrote:
> We have Cooper's feed on wood ducks every spring in our backyard flooded > woodland. > > Kurt Petersen > Sheboygan County > > -----Original Message----- > From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> On > Behalf Of Bill Volkert > Sent: Saturday, February 2, 2019 1:15 PM > To: Wisconsin Bird Network <wisbirdn...> > Subject: [wisb] Pheasant Survives Cold Snap But Not Cooper's Hawk > > Ever since mid-November we have had a pheasant rooster hanging around the > neighborhood. It was a frequent visitor to our bird feeders around the > house and would often sit under a large red cedar tree between meals. We > were surprised to see how well it did during the cold weather with > temperatures down to -23 F. It would scratch for seeds below the feeder > and > then sit out of the wind all puffed out and hunkered down. I put a small > pile of bird seed out on the ground as a convenient offering and would > watch > it out of a window by my office as I worked. > However, yesterday afternoon I stepped outside and saw a large bird take > off > from the other side of the cedar tree and noticed a puff of feathers > floating in the air as it left. I quickly saw that this was a Cooper's > hawk > as it flew across the woods and took a perch. At first I thought it had > taken a mourning dove, which seems to be a common prey item, but then > noticed that the feathers were quite large. As I walked closer I saw that > this was our local pheasant who ended up as a meal. > > I was surprised that a Cooper's hawk would take something as large as a > pheasant, which was not quite twice its size. But these are powerful > hunters and like most predators will try to take down larger prey when the > opportunity presents itself. > > I watched for the last hour in the afternoon as it returned to feed and > then > saw it again this morning working on this large meal. I thought of putting > up a trail camera, but I think it would be an effort to set a post in the > frozen ground to support it, so I will just watch from the window to see if > it returns again. Tough ending for the pheasant. > > Bill > FdL Co. > > -- > Bill Volkert > Naturalist > www.billvolkert > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding > Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
-- *Mark and Susan Foote-Martin* *W7503 Kampen Road* *Arlington, WI 53911* *Home phone 608-635-4160* *Mark's cell 608-333-9645*
Date: 2/5/19 5:21 pm From: Mark Martin <marksuemartin...> Subject: [wisb] Snowy Owl Sightings in the Arlington/DeForest Area Columbia/Dane Counties
Hello all, On Monday January 28th the first snowy owl in the local area was reported at the UW Arlington Research Farms by Jerry Schulz who works at the farms. He spotted the bird which had prominent brown checkering along Badger Road between Highway 51 and Hopkins Road. We saw the owl twice that afternoon and also on February 1st when it was sitting on top of a silo on the south side of Badger Lane at the UW dairy farm.
On Wednesday the 30th, Jerry was driving on Goose Pond Road by the pond when he first saw an eagle in the road "jumping up and down" close to the Manthe farm on the north side of Goose Pond Road. As he approached he could see an adult eagle had just killed a snowy owl, and the eagle flushed carrying the owl to the west toward our house. We did not learn about this until today. A pair of eagles built a nest in a pine tree in the Manthe front yard five years ago but decided to nest three miles to the north west of Goose Pond Road. We frequently see bald eagles hunting at Goose Pond. That day felt like the arctic with a low of - 30 degrees and a high of -12 with -50 wind chill. Snowy owls can take the weather, but we have no idea why the eagle was able to take the owl or why the owl was in this location. It is sad to lose one of our feathered friends, and very surprising to see that it was taken by an eagle.
Diane Harvey reported in a previous email about an owl one mile east of DeForest on Saturday February 2nd at the intersection of Vinburn and Portage Road. In the past, that area and 1.5 miles north along Portage Road has been a good area to search for snowy owls. When driving around you may come by Snowy Owl Court that was named for the high number of snowy owls in the Township in the winter of 2014-2015.
Let us know if see any snowy owls in the Arlington DeForest Area.
-- *Mark and Susan Foote-Martin, Graham Steinhauer* *Goose Pond Sanctuary, Columbia County* *Arlington, WI 53911* *Home phone 608-635-4160 **Mark's cell 608-333-9645*
Thank you, Bill! This is so important. I hope that everyone on this list serv signs! Jennifer Ambrose Milwaukee
On Tue, Feb 5, 2019 at 3:47 PM William Mueller <wpmueller1947...> wrote:
> U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA), along with > 15 other co-sponsors, reintroduced the Bird-Safe Buildings Act, H.R. 919 on > 30 January 2019, where it was referred to the House Committee on > Transportation and Infrastructure. This bipartisan proposal is designed to > reduce bird mortality by calling for federal buildings to incorporate > bird-safe building materials, design features, and lighting. > > As many as a billion birds a year die in collisions with buildings in North > America alone. And a 2014 study found that White-throated Sparrow, > Dark-eyed Junco, Ovenbird, and Song Sparrow were among the species most > commonly killed by these collisions with buildings. The study also reported > that several species of national conservation concern seem to be especially > vulnerable to collisions. Affected species include Wood Thrush, > Golden-winged Warbler, Canada Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, and Painted > Bunting. > > You can take action and ask your members of Congress to support this bill > here: > https://bit.ly/2RzRIxu > <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f > > William Mueller > Director, WGLBBO > Website: https://wglbbo.org/ > Midwest Migration Network: > https://midwestmigrationnetwork.org/ > <wpmueller1947...> > cell 414-698-9108 > blog: futureofbirds.blogspot.com > Milwaukee, WI > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/5/19 2:48 pm From: Tom Wood <tcwood729...> Subject: [wisb] Possible Snow x Greater White-fronted Goose in McFarland/Dane County
Thanks to Steve Thiessen's post about Lower Mud Lake on 2/2, I went there today and had a very good time. Not only did I see many of the birds Steve reported, I met Steve himself when I went to the south end of the lake, and enjoyed birding with him for part of the morning. I mentioned to Steve that when I was at Lewis Park on the north side of the lake that I had seen a dark morph Snow Goose which had remained for only about 20 seconds. However, later in the day I stopped at the bridge on Dyreson Road that passes over the Yahara River and saw the same bird, this time through the scope. I noted that it had a rather dull bill with no "grin patch." This did not look like a pure Snow Goose. I also recalled that when the bird flew from Lewis Park that the tail was dark with a well-defined white band at the rump. I couldn't remember what the tail looks like on a dark morph Snow Goose in flight, but when I got home I looked in the field guides and realized the tail was very much like the tail of a Greater White-fronted Goose! With a bill and tail looking like a Greater White-fronted and everything else in between looking like a dark morph Snow Goose, I suspect this is a hybrid of the two. Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County
U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL) and Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA), along with 15 other co-sponsors, reintroduced the Bird-Safe Buildings Act, H.R. 919 on 30 January 2019, where it was referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. This bipartisan proposal is designed to reduce bird mortality by calling for federal buildings to incorporate bird-safe building materials, design features, and lighting.
As many as a billion birds a year die in collisions with buildings in North America alone. And a 2014 study found that White-throated Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Ovenbird, and Song Sparrow were among the species most commonly killed by these collisions with buildings. The study also reported that several species of national conservation concern seem to be especially vulnerable to collisions. Affected species include Wood Thrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Canada Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, and Painted Bunting.
Greetings all, While walking my nephew's dog this p.m. I saw an immature Bald Eagle fly over the lakeshore heading South. I stopped by the Marina area on my way home and found the (an) elusive Snowy Owl sitting on the rocks that form the outer barrier of the marina. It is sitting straight out from the northern edge of the fueling facility. There is a small bush just to the right of the owl. Great birding all, Jim Hess, Sheboygan, WI Sheboygan County
Date: 2/5/19 8:45 am From: d pan <birdmandan813...> Subject: [wisb] SANC Birdclub meeting/speaker Milwaukee county
Wed Feb 13th at 6:30pm- NOTE- this is next Wednesday, not tomorrow- at the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center- The program is free and open to the public- Plenty of parking is available- Scott Diehl, Director of the Wisconsin Humane Society Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, will share stories from his career in avian rehabilitation. He holds a WI DNR Endangered and Threatened Species Rehab Authorization and is a federally licensed Master Bird Bander. Bird hikes will follow presentations when weather is permissible. Young adults and birders of all interest levels are welcome.-
I need help filling some vacant BBS routes in Wisconsin. There are a few more open routes this year due to the retirement of Jerry and Karen Smith who had 3 routes in the NW part of the state. Thank you for your years of service Jerry and Karen!
Date: 2/3/19 2:01 pm From: Jeremy Meyer <jmeyer4044...> Subject: [wisb] Brown Creeper and Nuthatches in my yard 2/3, photos
Good afternoon, I always have both nuthatches and creepers over winter every year, in my yard. Today it was nice enough to stand outside and watch them for awhile. They were quite active, making a bunch of ruckus, going up and down my pine trees. Since not much has really been going on lately, with the frozen weather, I thought I'd share some photos with you of three them. Photos can be seen at the link below. Have a great evening.
At about 4:05 yesterday my husband and I spotted a Snowy Owl just down the road from our home in rural Windsor, less than a mile from DeForest. It was sitting on top of a telephone pole along Vinburn Road, about 5 telephone poles west of the intersection of Vinburn and Portage Roads, in a stretch where the poles are on the south edge of Vinburn Road. If you are coming from either the north or south on Hwy 51, just where you reach the outskirts of DeForest, at the intersection of Hwy. 51 and Vinburn Road there is a tavern called Club 51. Turn east onto Vinburn Road, and shortly before you reach the next intersection, you'll see telephone poles on the right-hand (south) side of the road, and that's where we saw the bird.
A few years ago when we had so many snowies in our neighborhood, they were concentrated along Portage Road, about 1 to 1-1/2 miles north from the intersection I've just described. Coincidentally, we spotted them back then on Super Bowl Sunday! I didn't see this bird again today when we drove past, but will check out the neighborhood this afternoon to see if there are any more. It's pretty foggy here right now, so visibility is not the best.
Date: 2/3/19 9:23 am From: Steve <stevethiessen...> Subject: [wisb] Hybrid Goldeneye
I had what I believe an adult male Barrow’s/Common Goldeneye. It was at the Cty B Yahara River bridge, just north of Stoughton. It had the Barrow’s back colors. I thought the white rectangles may have been a bit big. The white facial spot went up a little ,but was rounded, not pointed. The hybrid plate in NG field guide, is a very close match. I’m going to try to refind this duck, and get a scope on it. The goldeneyes are very spooky. There’s also been a lot, in Stoughton, near Mandt Park. Steve Thiessen Stoughton Dane Co.
Date: 2/3/19 6:18 am From: tracy chiconas <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender tchiconas for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Delafield Sandhill update
That is great to hear! Thank you for checking on the bird & for sharing the information with us Mary.
- Tracy Chiconas Mil Wi <tchiconas...>
On Saturday, February 2, 2019, 10:20:57 PM CST, Mary Cullen <contrarymary53058...> wrote:
Thank you to all who shared their wisdom regarding the iced up Sandhill Crane on the Bark River.😊 I check on the bird near dusk Friday evening. lo and behold, six more Sandhills had joined it in the river! Early Saturday morning all were still there. The softball-sized lumps were now tennis ball sized and he was still working away at them. Early evening on Saturday found no cranes. I was told by a local that several have overwintered in previous years. That’s one very determined bird! More power to him.
Thank you to all who shared their wisdom regarding the iced up Sandhill Crane on the Bark River.😊 I check on the bird near dusk Friday evening. lo and behold, six more Sandhills had joined it in the river! Early Saturday morning all were still there. The softball-sized lumps were now tennis ball sized and he was still working away at them. Early evening on Saturday found no cranes. I was told by a local that several have overwintered in previous years. That’s one very determined bird! More power to him.
Date: 2/2/19 7:00 pm From: Peter Fissel <pfissel...> Subject: [wisb] Milwaukee/Johnson Creek today
Steve Thiessen, Jim Schwarz and I braved the fog to go over to Lake Michigan today. Fortunately, visibility got better the farther east we went. We made a quick pass at the gull spots in Johnson Creek, but it was nearly devoid of birds, so we headed for Milwaukee. Our first stop was at the junction of the two rivers near the Summerfest grounds. Lots of Herring Gulls and common diving ducks (Common Goldeneye, Common and Red-breasted Mergansers, Greater Scaup,) and a few Mallards. The rivermouth was better, with the same duck species (only many more - well over 1,000 G. Scaup,) plus a single White-winged Scoter, and a Great Black-backed Gull well away from the dozen or so Herring Gulls. As we walked back to the car, a nice male Am. Kestrel zipped over and landed in a treetop by the parking lot. At the Bradford Beach parking lot, more of the same ducks, plus a very close male Long-tailed Duck that was working the edge of the ice shelf. It was tough to find, as it was only visible when it was between shelves projecting out into the lake (not to mention how long they can stay under during a dive.) A couple of Ring-billed Gulls on top of ice shoves on the beach were the only ones we saw on the day. An adult Bald Eagle gave the non-birders who were there taking photos quite a thrill as it flew by offshore. We got a tip that a Peregrine had been seen earlier that morning at the South Shore Yacht Club, and we knew an Iceland Gull and Snowy Owl had been seen in that vicinity earlier this month, so we headed there next. Other than a few Canada Geese and Mallards, there wasn't much by the boat launch and docks. We could see some common divers and gulls out by the gap in the breakwall to the south, so we headed up to the Texas Ave. overlook. There were lots of divers farther out, but most appeared to be RB Mergansers. Steve did spot a female-type Long-tailed Duck working the gap, and Jim and I finally spotted it. We went under the Hoan Bridge to check the Petroleum Pier for Snowies, without success. However, while Steve was scoping the distant ducks far to the north, he spotted a Peregrine flying low away from us. Suddenly, it veered up and grabbed a duck out of the air! Jim and I finally got it in our scopes and watched as it flew quite a ways west with the duck in its talons, until we finally lost it under the bridge. On the way back, we stopped at Johnson Creek again. This time, there were lots of gulls up on the landfill hill. A couple of Bald Eagles made occasional flyovers, which would get the gulls up in the air. There was also a bulldozer working down at the base of the hill, and we could see a lot of gulls dropping down behind the ridge in front of us. Steve finally picked out an immature Glaucous Gull up on the hill, and there was also an adult Great Black-backed at the top. Steve had just gotten onto one he was sure was an Iceland when I happened to look up and saw one flying practically over our heads - nice adult Kumlien's-type. Quite a few gulls flew over us, headed west, and they were landing on the blue truck-wash building and also beyond. We drove over there and went north of the BP/McDonald's. Rather than landing in the field to the north, most of the gulls were up on top of the hill even further north. Those seemed to be all Herrings, but there was at least one a dult Glaucous up on the truck wash. We called it a day and grabbed lunch before heading home. It was good to get out of the house and enjoy the (comparatively) balmy temps - and see some interesting birds! Peter Fissel
Date: 2/2/19 5:39 pm From: Bill Krouse <bkrouse1...> Subject: [wisb] Door County
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Date: 2/2/19 5:30 pm From: Peter Fissel <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender peter.fissel for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Fw: Northwoods today
Forwarding for Steve. (I might note that most reports from the Northwoods I've seen recently have indicated that it is VERY quiet overall.)
________________________________ From: gungagalunga23 <gungagalunga23...> Sent: Saturday, February 2, 2019 6:47 PM To: Peter Fissel Subject: Northwoods today
Peter , my Dad my Mom, Connie and me birded the Northwoods today-here is what we saw. We got to Alvin about 9 a.m. and only observed 2 Evening grosbeaks a male and a female at the bird feeders on the hill. The bird feeder on the northeast end of that town appeared to not have any bird seed in it today. We drove the length of Pine River Road/Sheltered Valley Road from Highway 55 to Three Lakes and did not pick up a quality bird. At Three Lakes High School we found 7 female Pine Grosbeaks in a fruit tree right next to the school. In Rhinelander on Pelham Street 100 feet south of Randall Avenue we saw a hundred and Seventeen Bohemian Waxwings in a fruit tree at 3:15 p.m. and then we headed back home. We whiffed at Nicolet College (Rhinelander). We saw two Ruffed Grouse in trees on Highway 45 on the way back. Other Bird highlights of the day included at least 15 Ravens and two shrikes one was on the Eastside of Rhinelander and the other was southeast of Rhinelander. We had three rough-legged Hawks on the day and one bald eagle. Hopefully that helps somebody out for tomorrow, Steve Mullen , Daryl and Sherry Christensen, Connie Phelps, Oshkosh Wisconsin.
Date: 2/2/19 2:35 pm From: Steve <stevethiessen...> Subject: [wisb] Lower Mud Lake, McFarland
Stopped by Lewis Park in McFarland, this afternoon. I was surprised to see so much waterfowl. There were 10 Trumpeter and 64 Tundra Swans, way over 100 shovelers, lots of goldeneyes and Common Mergansers, 3 Ring-necked Ducks, 2 Lesser Scaup, 2 Canvasbacks, 1 Black Duck and Mallards. Steve Thiessen Stoughton Dane co.
Date: 2/2/19 11:44 am From: K Petersen <loonp...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Pheasant Survives Cold Snap But Not Cooper's Hawk
We have Cooper's feed on wood ducks every spring in our backyard flooded woodland.
Kurt Petersen Sheboygan County
-----Original Message----- From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> On Behalf Of Bill Volkert Sent: Saturday, February 2, 2019 1:15 PM To: Wisconsin Bird Network <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Pheasant Survives Cold Snap But Not Cooper's Hawk
Ever since mid-November we have had a pheasant rooster hanging around the neighborhood. It was a frequent visitor to our bird feeders around the house and would often sit under a large red cedar tree between meals. We were surprised to see how well it did during the cold weather with temperatures down to -23 F. It would scratch for seeds below the feeder and then sit out of the wind all puffed out and hunkered down. I put a small pile of bird seed out on the ground as a convenient offering and would watch it out of a window by my office as I worked. However, yesterday afternoon I stepped outside and saw a large bird take off from the other side of the cedar tree and noticed a puff of feathers floating in the air as it left. I quickly saw that this was a Cooper's hawk as it flew across the woods and took a perch. At first I thought it had taken a mourning dove, which seems to be a common prey item, but then noticed that the feathers were quite large. As I walked closer I saw that this was our local pheasant who ended up as a meal.
I was surprised that a Cooper's hawk would take something as large as a pheasant, which was not quite twice its size. But these are powerful hunters and like most predators will try to take down larger prey when the opportunity presents itself.
I watched for the last hour in the afternoon as it returned to feed and then saw it again this morning working on this large meal. I thought of putting up a trail camera, but I think it would be an effort to set a post in the frozen ground to support it, so I will just watch from the window to see if it returns again. Tough ending for the pheasant.
Date: 2/2/19 11:15 am From: Bill Volkert <billvolkert11...> Subject: [wisb] Pheasant Survives Cold Snap But Not Cooper's Hawk
Ever since mid-November we have had a pheasant rooster hanging around the neighborhood. It was a frequent visitor to our bird feeders around the house and would often sit under a large red cedar tree between meals. We were surprised to see how well it did during the cold weather with temperatures down to -23 F. It would scratch for seeds below the feeder and then sit out of the wind all puffed out and hunkered down. I put a small pile of bird seed out on the ground as a convenient offering and would watch it out of a window by my office as I worked. However, yesterday afternoon I stepped outside and saw a large bird take off from the other side of the cedar tree and noticed a puff of feathers floating in the air as it left. I quickly saw that this was a Cooper's hawk as it flew across the woods and took a perch. At first I thought it had taken a mourning dove, which seems to be a common prey item, but then noticed that the feathers were quite large. As I walked closer I saw that this was our local pheasant who ended up as a meal.
I was surprised that a Cooper's hawk would take something as large as a pheasant, which was not quite twice its size. But these are powerful hunters and like most predators will try to take down larger prey when the opportunity presents itself.
I watched for the last hour in the afternoon as it returned to feed and then saw it again this morning working on this large meal. I thought of putting up a trail camera, but I think it would be an effort to set a post in the frozen ground to support it, so I will just watch from the window to see if it returns again. Tough ending for the pheasant.
Date: 2/2/19 5:47 am From: Karen Mckinley <kaymack58...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Sand hill stuck
sometimes there is nothing that can safely be done. it's nature
On Sat, Feb 2, 2019 at 12:18 AM Mitchell Nussbaum < <dmarc-noreply...> wrote:
> Seems like something the DNR might deal with. > -Genie Ogden > Madison > > > > -------------------------------------------- > On Fri, 2/1/19, Mary Cullen <contrarymary53058...> wrote: > > Subject: [wisb] Sand hill stuck > To: "wisbirdn" <wisbirdn...> > Date: Friday, February 1, 2019, 2:57 PM > > Hi all. Am in Delafield. By fish hatchery. > Sandhills stuck in Bark River. Big chunk of ice on wing. > Called Wildlife in Need . Not sure they can help. Dangerous > to attempt capture because of river. Bird in water almost to > top of legs. Thought I’d just put info out there for > folks. Call me if you’d like. > > > Mary Cullen > Waukesha > 262-370-8094#################### > You received this email because you are > subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the > Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use > the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
Date: 2/1/19 11:18 pm From: Mitchell Nussbaum <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender acornwithteeth for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Sand hill stuck
Seems like something the DNR might deal with. -Genie Ogden Madison
-------------------------------------------- On Fri, 2/1/19, Mary Cullen <contrarymary53058...> wrote:
Subject: [wisb] Sand hill stuck To: "wisbirdn" <wisbirdn...> Date: Friday, February 1, 2019, 2:57 PM
Hi all. Am in Delafield. By fish hatchery. Sandhills stuck in Bark River. Big chunk of ice on wing. Called Wildlife in Need . Not sure they can help. Dangerous to attempt capture because of river. Bird in water almost to top of legs. Thought I’d just put info out there for folks. Call me if you’d like.
Date: 2/1/19 12:59 pm From: Mary Cullen <contrarymary53058...> Subject: [wisb] Sand hill stuck
Hi all. Am in Delafield. By fish hatchery. Sandhills stuck in Bark River. Big chunk of ice on wing. Called Wildlife in Need . Not sure they can help. Dangerous to attempt capture because of river. Bird in water almost to top of legs. Thought I’d just put info out there for folks. Call me if you’d like.
Date: 2/1/19 10:20 am From: Thomas Erdman <ErdT4...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Hybrid Mallard -Black Duck?
! agree, The Black duck population continues to decline across Midwest and east coast. Unfortunately Mallards will mate with just about anything and this is pretty typical. Any Black duck you see with white on the lower edge of the wing speculum has some Mallard in its genes.
When I kid the ratio of Black ducks to Mallards was about 5 to 1 at the Green Bay Sanctuary. Today it is probably at least 1-20 or 30 in favor of Mallards. We had so many Black ducks winter here that DNR spent several winter trapping and banding them back in the 1980s. We also had nesting records here back then too. Times are a changing.
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Joe Riederer <wisbird.riederer...> Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2019 7:32:56 PM To: <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Hybrid Mallard -Black Duck?
My nephew found this odd looking duck on the Wisconsin River in Wisconsin Rapids. Is it a hybrid Mallard - Black Duck, or some other creative mix? (admittedly this is a grainy picture, but I hope you can see what I asking about) https://drive.google.com/open?id lKl_k56P04p5yKlgxXdwW0s16Oq63Vc
Date: 2/1/19 8:05 am From: Dave Moffat <moffatfam...> Subject: [wisb] Bellbrook Rd Short-eared Owls - No
Ann and I drove along Bellbrook and Tipperary Rds yesterday evening between 4 and 5:15. We saw lots of American Tree Sparrows, several Red-tailed Hawks, and four turkeys (three way up in trees). No Northern Harriers or Short-eared Owls. At 5:05 a large bird that could have been a Short-eared Owl flew over Bellbrook at the bridge but we lost it in the low brush.
Date: 1/31/19 6:31 pm From: Patrick Ready <birdsready...> Subject: [wisb] Dodge Co Snowy Owl
I was returning to Madison from a Beaver Dam this aft (1:45) when I saw a Snowy Owl fly from the top of a utility pole. It dropped ahead of a semi about 100 yards in front of me. Close call! I tried to keep an eye on it as it drifted over the snow covered field to the west. Looking between the tree row I saw it glide over the field and just as I was even with it it banked left (south) toward N. Salem Rd. I could see it was definitely a Snowy, overall white with some black spotting on body & wings. 60/40. Pat Ready Madison
Date: 1/31/19 6:00 pm From: Hondochica z <hondochica...> Subject: [wisb] Re: ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI
Nice Bird! As a temporarily displaced Colorado resident (here in Milwaukee for a bit yet) - it's amazing (?) that a varied thrush has also turned up on the CO RBA in the Boulder area (outside of Denver) on the 24th! I don't believe in coincidences - seems they are on the move right now. Cheers Kelly Goocher Milwaukee
On Thu, Jan 31, 2019 at 4:59 PM David Johnson <djohnsoda...> wrote:
> They seem to love cracked corn for some reason. > > David B Johnson > NE IL > <djohnsoda...> > > Sent from my iPhone > > > On Jan 31, 2019, at 12:18 PM, Tom Wood <tcwood729...> wrote: > > > > Hi Jane- > > Although Varied Thrushes are highly unusual in the state, it seems that > one or more make a winter appearance every year. I see from eBird that one > was visiting from January 13 to April 12 at a private residence in Door > County last year, so they seem to get by and probably move on when they are > ready. I don't think any intervention on your part is necessary, and as > long as he is sustaining himself at your feeders, he may remain for a > while. Enjoy your beautiful and unusual visitor! > > Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County > > -----Original Message----- > > From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> [mailto: > <wisbirdn-bounce...>] On Behalf Of JBenson > > Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2019 11:32 AM > > To: <wisbirdn...> > > Cc: Jeff Benson > > Subject: [wisb] ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI > > > > Hello, I’m new to wisbirdn, and found out about you through Lori > Bankson, the awesome Animal Curator of Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary in > Green Bay, WI. My husband and I live in Suamico, WI, and have backyard > feeders between our house and nearby woods. The woods are a mix of > hardwoods and coniferous trees. > > > > On about January 23rd, 2019, a handsome varied thrush appeared at our > feeders. He’s been a regular since then. It took a while to identify him, > since his normal habitat is on the far west coast in California and WA > state. We think he blew in with the blizzard last week. > > > > He looks healthy, is eating well and getting along fine with the other > birds. We’re just wondering if he’ll be able to get back to his normal turf > to find a mate and other varied thrushes. > > > > Should we do anything to help him, or just let nature take its course? > Are varied thrushes being spotted elsewhere in WI? > > > > Thank you- > > Jane Benson#################### > > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > > > > > --- > > This email has been checked for viruses by AVG. > > https://www.avg.com > > > > #################### > > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > >
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Joe Riederer <wisbird.riederer...> Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2019 7:32:56 PM To: <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Hybrid Mallard -Black Duck?
My nephew found this odd looking duck on the Wisconsin River in Wisconsin Rapids. Is it a hybrid Mallard - Black Duck, or some other creative mix? (admittedly this is a grainy picture, but I hope you can see what I asking about) https://drive.google.com/open?id lKl_k56P04p5yKlgxXdwW0s16Oq63Vc
My nephew found this odd looking duck on the Wisconsin River in Wisconsin Rapids. Is it a hybrid Mallard - Black Duck, or some other creative mix? (admittedly this is a grainy picture, but I hope you can see what I asking about) https://drive.google.com/open?id=1DlKl_k56P04p5yKlgxXdwW0s16Oq63Vc
Date: 1/31/19 3:10 pm From: Ted Treska <ttreska...> Subject: [wisb] Bald eagles - Green Bay
There is a Bald Eagle congregation in the trees just north of the composting site off of Hurlbut St (parallel to Hwy 43). There must have been 10-12 eagles today at about 5 pm. The site is about 2 miles west of the mouth of the Fox River. Not sure if they will be back again tomorrow. Ted Treska Brown county
Date: 1/31/19 2:59 pm From: David Johnson <djohnsoda...> Subject: [wisb] Re: ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI
They seem to love cracked corn for some reason.
David B Johnson NE IL <djohnsoda...>
Sent from my iPhone
> On Jan 31, 2019, at 12:18 PM, Tom Wood <tcwood729...> wrote: > > Hi Jane- > Although Varied Thrushes are highly unusual in the state, it seems that one or more make a winter appearance every year. I see from eBird that one was visiting from January 13 to April 12 at a private residence in Door County last year, so they seem to get by and probably move on when they are ready. I don't think any intervention on your part is necessary, and as long as he is sustaining himself at your feeders, he may remain for a while. Enjoy your beautiful and unusual visitor! > Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County > -----Original Message----- > From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> [mailto:<wisbirdn-bounce...>] On Behalf Of JBenson > Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2019 11:32 AM > To: <wisbirdn...> > Cc: Jeff Benson > Subject: [wisb] ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI > > Hello, I’m new to wisbirdn, and found out about you through Lori Bankson, the awesome Animal Curator of Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary in Green Bay, WI. My husband and I live in Suamico, WI, and have backyard feeders between our house and nearby woods. The woods are a mix of hardwoods and coniferous trees. > > On about January 23rd, 2019, a handsome varied thrush appeared at our feeders. He’s been a regular since then. It took a while to identify him, since his normal habitat is on the far west coast in California and WA state. We think he blew in with the blizzard last week. > > He looks healthy, is eating well and getting along fine with the other birds. We’re just wondering if he’ll be able to get back to his normal turf to find a mate and other varied thrushes. > > Should we do anything to help him, or just let nature take its course? Are varied thrushes being spotted elsewhere in WI? > > Thank you- > Jane Benson#################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > > --- > This email has been checked for viruses by AVG. > https://www.avg.com > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 1/31/19 10:19 am From: Tom Wood <tcwood729...> Subject: [wisb] Re: ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI
Hi Jane- Although Varied Thrushes are highly unusual in the state, it seems that one or more make a winter appearance every year. I see from eBird that one was visiting from January 13 to April 12 at a private residence in Door County last year, so they seem to get by and probably move on when they are ready. I don't think any intervention on your part is necessary, and as long as he is sustaining himself at your feeders, he may remain for a while. Enjoy your beautiful and unusual visitor! Thomas Wood, Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County -----Original Message----- From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> [mailto:<wisbirdn-bounce...>] On Behalf Of JBenson Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2019 11:32 AM To: <wisbirdn...> Cc: Jeff Benson Subject: [wisb] ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI
Hello, I’m new to wisbirdn, and found out about you through Lori Bankson, the awesome Animal Curator of Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary in Green Bay, WI. My husband and I live in Suamico, WI, and have backyard feeders between our house and nearby woods. The woods are a mix of hardwoods and coniferous trees.
On about January 23rd, 2019, a handsome varied thrush appeared at our feeders. He’s been a regular since then. It took a while to identify him, since his normal habitat is on the far west coast in California and WA state. We think he blew in with the blizzard last week.
He looks healthy, is eating well and getting along fine with the other birds. We’re just wondering if he’ll be able to get back to his normal turf to find a mate and other varied thrushes.
Should we do anything to help him, or just let nature take its course? Are varied thrushes being spotted elsewhere in WI?
Date: 1/31/19 9:33 am From: JBenson <janebenson...> Subject: [wisb] ALERT: Varied Thrush in Suamico, WI
Hello, I’m new to wisbirdn, and found out about you through Lori Bankson, the awesome Animal Curator of Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary in Green Bay, WI. My husband and I live in Suamico, WI, and have backyard feeders between our house and nearby woods. The woods are a mix of hardwoods and coniferous trees.
On about January 23rd, 2019, a handsome varied thrush appeared at our feeders. He’s been a regular since then. It took a while to identify him, since his normal habitat is on the far west coast in California and WA state. We think he blew in with the blizzard last week.
He looks healthy, is eating well and getting along fine with the other birds. We’re just wondering if he’ll be able to get back to his normal turf to find a mate and other varied thrushes.
Should we do anything to help him, or just let nature take its course? Are varied thrushes being spotted elsewhere in WI?
Date: 1/31/19 4:52 am From: Mark Korducki <korducki...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Scott's Oriole in '96
Nice memory Steve. I saw the bird about a week earlier when the temps in Adams were a balmy -16. That was a cold winter.
Mark Korducki, New Berlin Sent from my iPhone
> On Jan 31, 2019, at 6:12 AM, Steve Konings <stvknngs...> wrote: > > The cold weather reminded me of seeing the Scott's Oriole exactly 23 years > ago this weekend in Adams. The high that day (2/2) was -15 F and about -30 > F that night in the Dell's. The bird was never seen again. > Steve Konings > Mike Co. > > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: http://www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: http://www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > >
Date: 1/31/19 4:13 am From: Steve Konings <stvknngs...> Subject: [wisb] Scott's Oriole in '96
The cold weather reminded me of seeing the Scott's Oriole exactly 23 years ago this weekend in Adams. The high that day (2/2) was -15 F and about -30 F that night in the Dell's. The bird was never seen again. Steve Konings Mike Co.
Date: 1/30/19 7:59 pm From: Scott Weberpal <scott.weberpal...> Subject: [wisb] Nocturnal Tundra Swan Flyover at -18 F
I was a bit surprised to have a flock of about 25 Tundra Swans fly over the northeast side of Janesville just a bit ago (around 9:45 PM). I initially heard their flight calls when I let my dog out and looked up and was able to see their all-white bodies reflecting the city lights. I assume they are relocating from the Madison chain of lakes as that is the only location ebird has shown them in good numbers recently. Scott Weberpal Janesville
I watched a lone Short eared Owl cruse my neighbors field in front of my house just before dark today. It's the first SEOW I've seen in the 8 years I've been at this location west of Viroqua. A desperate Song Sparrow, American Tree Sparrow and rooster Ring necked Pheasant were new arrivals under my feeder today and yesterday. The wary pheasant caught his reflection on my storm door and spent some time growling, snarling, and pecking at the glass.
There was a flock of robins on our block yesterday. About 20 of them eating berries in a Hackberry tree, and a small group of them huddled on a roof vent. And today I saw a small flock on some berry and crab apple trees on campus.
Date: 1/29/19 11:36 am From: Charles Peterson <suechick...> Subject: [wisb] Waxwings, North Ephraim, Door Co.
At One P.M. today I watched about 100 Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings feeding on berries at the trees in front of High Point Inn in north Ephraim. There was one Robin with them, a Crow watching further away. I'd guess about 60 Bohemians, 40 Cedar Waxwings. They fly up to the tall maples across the street to rest. High Point Inn is on Hwy 42. Sue Peterson
Date: 1/28/19 8:20 am From: Peter Fissel <dmarc-noreply...> (Redacted sender peter.fissel for DMARC) Subject: [wisb] Re: Swan Questions
Tom answered your first question quite well. As far as your second question, most Tundra Swans overwinter on the North Carolina coast and in Chesapeake Bay. That's why you typically see them flying ESE in large flocks in November.
Peter Fissel
Madison WI
________________________________ From: <wisbirdn-bounce...> <wisbirdn-bounce...> on behalf of Joe Riederer <wisbird.riederer...> Sent: Monday, January 28, 2019 9:05 AM To: <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Swan Questions
Date: 1/28/19 8:06 am From: Tom Schultz <trschultz...> Subject: [wisb] Re: Swan Questions
Yes, I would ID these as Trumpeter Swans, due to the bill shape and the wide bill connection to the eye. Nice photos! In my experience, this species is much more likely to be found in winter in Wisconsin (than are Tundras), in places where there is open, fairly shallow water.
Tom Schultz Green Lake Co.
-----Original Message----- From: Joe Riederer Sent: Monday, January 28, 2019 9:05 AM To: <wisbirdn...> Subject: [wisb] Swan Questions
Date: 1/27/19 4:53 pm From: Rita Wiskowski <rita.birdnerd...> Subject: [wisb] Red-tailed Hawks and Rough-legged Hawks - Milwaukee County
I birded Pennsylvania Avenue today in the city of Oak Creek (Milwaukee County) between Puetz and Oakwood Avenues. More red-tailed hawks than you could shake a stick at, including the dark morph that has been showing up there for the last 6 or 7 winters. I missed that one today, but a couple of other birders saw it. There was another one that seemed smaller than the other red-taileds and was darker on the breast too, but not as dark as the dark morph, but was indeed another red-tailed. Another pair was soaring about making their ‘keeeeeer’ call, so that was cool. At one point three or four were kettling right over our heads.
At least two rough-legged were active and hunting. This is the first of the season for me for the rough-legged, later to show up than previous years. I even checked there yesterday and nothing, so good to see them back.
Date: 1/26/19 4:13 pm From: Jim Edlhuber <jimedlhuber...> Subject: [wisb] Dark-eyed Junco eating Sumac seeds Lake Park MKE Co. 1/26/19, images...
Hi all, One of my birding stops this morning was Lake Park in Milwaukee, about the only place that there were birds seen and that was slim. The highlight if you can believe it was a Dark-eyed Junco, but it was doing something I had never witnessed before. It was eating Staghorn Sumac seeds off a plant there. Could be common thing, I just have never seen it. It was brief but I did get a couple of shots of the event to share. Other birds near the feeder that was full of seed by the statue were White-breasted Nuthatches, Black-capped Chickadees, more Dark-eyed Juncos and Red-bellied and Downy Woodpeckers. Along the lakefront things were pretty much froze up except for an area just off North Point. There were a few Common Goldeneye, Greater Scaup and Bufflehead present there. I saw ONE Gull along the lakefront flying far off in a distance. My short birding run along the lake was Lake Park south to South Shore Yacht Club where 20 Canada Geese were loafing on the ice.Chilly morning starting out at -10F, but with very little wind it was not too bad out there.
A couple images of the Dark-eyed Junco eating Staghorn Sumac seeds at the link below if you care to view them:
Date: 1/25/19 5:12 pm From: Jeff Bahls <jbahls...> Subject: [wisb] Horicon Owl Prowl 2nd bus added
We quickly sold out the first bus ... We were able to add a 2nd bus to the Horicon Marsh Owl On Feb 2. Don't delay book today.
Owl Prowl Horicon Marsh Feb 2 3-5:30PM Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center
Join Horicon Marsh Bird Club members on a search for winter owls. During our bus ride to historical owl areas, trip leaders will fill us in on fun facts about owls. New this year we will be traveling by bus to avoid large amounts of cars in caravans. Pre-registration and $15 fee required for the 3-5:30pm bus trip.
Afterwards you're welcome to bring a picnic dinner and stay for part 2 which will start at 6:30PM . We have owl pellets to dissect from 5:30 to 6:30
Owl Prowl -part 2 FREE Feb 2 6:30PM- 8:30PM Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor
At 6:30 Naturalist Liz Herzmann from the Wisconsin DNR will give a talk at the Ed center about Owls and then hike to Indermuhle Island to call for some owls. The talk will have various owl parts for you to look at discuss fun facts about Owls.
Date: 1/25/19 1:22 pm From: Jim Edlhuber <jimedlhuber...> Subject: [wisb] Northern Saw-whet Owl ~ Wisconsin 1/12/19, some images...
Hi all, On winter days when birding is slow I spend a lot of hours for weeks looking for the Northern Saw-whet Owl. I found this beautiful owl doing just that. I had views for less than 2 minutes before it left the tree. I was looking down at my camera to check the exposure, heard a flutter and had just a glimpse of it flying off. I spent a few minutes quietly looking to an area it went to with no luck.
A link to a couple images the Northern Saw-whet Owl at the link below if you care to view them:
Date: 1/24/19 5:35 pm From: Jym Mooney & Carol Lee Hopkins <hopmoon...> Subject: [wisb] Milwaukee Lake Park Duck Watch on 1/26/19 is CANCELLED due to cold weather
Duck Watch at Lake Park in Milwaukee on 1/26/19 is cancelled due to cold weather. See you on2/9. Jym Mooney, Milwaukee
