Date: 9/20/18 5:04 pm From: Betsy Checchia <betsy.checchia...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ -- Lakeside Park, East Tucson Today
Stopped at Lakeside Park this morning to see if anything interesting had come in with yesterday's all-day rainstorm, and -- no. There were almost no waterfowl in evidence, not even the usual mob of Mallards and "mutants." However, there was a flock of Yellow-headed Blackbirds, 3 kinds of hummingbirds, and a Black-crowned Night-Heron sitting under a tree next to a group of fishermen, apparently waiting for a handout. 36 species total -- list is on eBird.
Date: 9/20/18 4:30 pm From: Jeff Ritz <vaiboy777...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Correction - American Golden-Plover at Glendale Recharge Ponds
This bird just raised it's wings it has black axillary feathers.
Jeff Ritz
On Thu, Sep 20, 2018, 2:40 PM Steve Hosmer <sjhosmer...> wrote:
> At the Glendale Recharge Ponds (Maricopa Co.) this morning I found what I > initially reported to be a rather brightly colored juvenile Black-bellied > Plover (had a lot of gold speckles above) on mudflats in Pond 1 (NE pond > basin). However after review by a number of birders, it was concluded > this is > actually an American Golden-Plover. Hopefully it is still there. > > Take care and good birding. > > Steve Hosmer > Anthem, AZ > Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds > To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. > To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/20/18 4:24 pm From: Jeff Ritz <vaiboy777...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Correction - American Golden-Plover at Glendale Recharge Ponds
Still present as of 4:20
Jeff Ritz Phoenix AZ
On Sep 20, 2018 2:40 PM, "Steve Hosmer" <sjhosmer...> wrote:
At the Glendale Recharge Ponds (Maricopa Co.) this morning I found what I initially reported to be a rather brightly colored juvenile Black-bellied Plover (had a lot of gold speckles above) on mudflats in Pond 1 (NE pond basin). However after review by a number of birders, it was concluded this is actually an American Golden-Plover. Hopefully it is still there.
Take care and good birding.
Steve Hosmer Anthem, AZ Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/20/18 2:40 pm From: Steve Hosmer <sjhosmer...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Correction - American Golden-Plover at Glendale Recharge Ponds
At the Glendale Recharge Ponds (Maricopa Co.) this morning I found what I initially reported to be a rather brightly colored juvenile Black-bellied Plover (had a lot of gold speckles above) on mudflats in Pond 1 (NE pond basin). However after review by a number of birders, it was concluded this is actually an American Golden-Plover. Hopefully it is still there.
At the Glendale Recharge Ponds (Maricopa Co.) this morning I found a rather brightly colored juvenile Black-bellied Plover (had a lot of gold speckles above) on mudflats in Pond 1 (NE pond basin). Other birds of interest included a Baird's Sandpiper and three Stilt Sandpipers, all of which were along the east shore of Pond 4 (SW pond basin).
Date: 9/20/18 10:59 am From: David Pearson <dpearson...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZ Maricopa Co., Gilbert Water Ranch Possible Red-eyed/Yellow-green Vireo
This morning at 9:45 am Peter Ginsburg and I watched a vireo foraging at eye level in desert willow and broom on the trail between Pond 2 and Pond 3 about 200 feet from the west end of the trail. It had yellow wash all along the flanks almost to the throat; the back was an ambiguous olive, and it had a distinct white eyeline, with a grayish cap and a large bill. It did not call or sing. Peter's photos are better than mine, and he will be posting them on eBird soon.
David L Pearson
School of Life Sciences
Arizona State University
Tempe AZ 85287-4501
Date: 9/20/18 5:52 am From: Malcolm S Chesworth <malcolmsc...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] se AZ: Amado - Tricolored Heron
Checked the pond again yesterday morning but no sight of the Heron. There were however four Cattle Egrets on the northerly blue platform and one immature Black-crowned Night Heron at 8:15.
On Sunday, September 16, 2018 09:05:20 PM PDT, Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> wrote:
Mike Terenzoni reported that though he was unable to see the Tricolored Heron on his visit today (9/16), another birder told him that the heron was taking refuge under the dock-like structure in the northeast corner of the pond and hard to see from the road.
So it is evidently still around, but can be difficult to see.
thanks Mike!
Andrew Core
SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZhttp://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/southeast-arizona-rare-bird-alert/
On Wed, Sep 12, 2018 at 11:08 AM Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> wrote:
From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org):
Richard Wilt reports:There is a Tricolored Heron working the north bank of the Amado Sewage Pond today, Wednesday. It was observed both at 9:15 am and 10:45 am. thanks Richard!
Andrew Core
SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZhttp://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/southeast-arizona-rare-bird-alert/
Date: 9/19/18 7:02 pm From: <theloraxx365...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Belated LBBG report from Lake Mead, Mohave County, Az
Hey All,
A bit of a belated report, but a group of us had a near Adult Lesser Black- backed Gull on the Arizona side of Lake Mead on Sunday, 16th September, while on a "pelagic."
The bird was seen sitting on the big water before taking flight towards the NV shore. Quite unexpected.
On Wed, Sep 19, 2018, 10:43 AM Mark Stevenson <drbrdr...> wrote:
> For anyone interested, the GPS coordinates for the turn-off onto Road 52 > to Old Gov't Corral at San Carlos Lake are > > 33.2196 -110.5064 > > Road 52 takes you somewhat west of but close to the (CURRENT) > upstream/eastern end of the lake. > > > Mark Stevenson > Tucson, AZ > -------------------------------------------- > On Tue, 9/18/18, MOLLY POLLOCK <mollymp...> wrote: > > Subject: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Gila County Birding 9/18/18 > To: "AZNM Birds" <aznmbirds...> > Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2018, 7:42 PM > > Hello birders, > > Dave Stejskal, Mark Stevenson and I > started our Gila County birding day at Tufa Stone Tank (see > Tommy B.'s earlier posts for details on this > location). As we arrived a phalarope flew through and > continued on its way. Some highlights at this > location: American Redstart, Black-and-White Warbler, > Dickcissel, and Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay. > > Then we headed to San Carlos Lake, > first stopping at the Sewage Ponds, where we had a calling > Pyrrhuloxia that we all saw well. We next drove down > dirt road 52 (old government corral) to San Carlos Lake > where Dave soon spotted the PARASITIC JAEGER. Here we > had several Cattle Egrets, four Forster's Terns (which the > jaeger eventually harassed), a Black Tern, and a huge group > of more than 350 cormorants that sat the south side of the > lake. > > Finally, we headed to Bermuda Flats at > Roosevelt Lake for the continuing REDDISH EGRET. Three > Forster's Terns sat on nearby buoys. > > See detailed bird lists and photos > (still being added) in our eBird checklists. > > Good Birding, > > Molly Pollock > Tucson, AZ > Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds > To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. > To view archive: click "Archive" on that page. > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > > Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds > To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. > To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/19/18 10:43 am From: Mark Stevenson <drbrdr...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Gila County Birding 9/18/18
For anyone interested, the GPS coordinates for the turn-off onto Road 52 to Old Gov't Corral at San Carlos Lake are
33.2196 -110.5064
Road 52 takes you somewhat west of but close to the (CURRENT) upstream/eastern end of the lake.
Mark Stevenson
Tucson, AZ
--------------------------------------------
On Tue, 9/18/18, MOLLY POLLOCK <mollymp...> wrote:
Subject: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Gila County Birding 9/18/18
To: "AZNM Birds" <aznmbirds...>
Date: Tuesday, September 18, 2018, 7:42 PM
Hello birders,
Dave Stejskal, Mark Stevenson and I
started our Gila County birding day at Tufa Stone Tank (see
Tommy B.'s earlier posts for details on this
location). As we arrived a phalarope flew through and
continued on its way. Some highlights at this
location: American Redstart, Black-and-White Warbler,
Dickcissel, and Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay.
Then we headed to San Carlos Lake,
first stopping at the Sewage Ponds, where we had a calling
Pyrrhuloxia that we all saw well. We next drove down
dirt road 52 (old government corral) to San Carlos Lake
where Dave soon spotted the PARASITIC JAEGER. Here we
had several Cattle Egrets, four Forster's Terns (which the
jaeger eventually harassed), a Black Tern, and a huge group
of more than 350 cormorants that sat the south side of the
lake.
Finally, we headed to Bermuda Flats at
Roosevelt Lake for the continuing REDDISH EGRET. Three
Forster's Terns sat on nearby buoys.
See detailed bird lists and photos
(still being added) in our eBird checklists.
Good Birding,
Molly Pollock
Tucson, AZ
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page.
To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
-----Inline Attachment Follows-----
Dave Stejskal, Mark Stevenson and I started our Gila County birding day at Tufa Stone Tank (see Tommy B.'s earlier posts for details on this location). As we arrived a phalarope flew through and continued on its way. Some highlights at this location: American Redstart, Black-and-White Warbler, Dickcissel, and Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay.
Then we headed to San Carlos Lake, first stopping at the Sewage Ponds, where we had a calling Pyrrhuloxia that we all saw well. We next drove down dirt road 52 (old government corral) to San Carlos Lake where Dave soon spotted the PARASITIC JAEGER. Here we had several Cattle Egrets, four Forster's Terns (which the jaeger eventually harassed), a Black Tern, and a huge group of more than 350 cormorants that sat the south side of the lake.
Finally, we headed to Bermuda Flats at Roosevelt Lake for the continuing REDDISH EGRET. Three Forster's Terns sat on nearby buoys.
See detailed bird lists and photos (still being added) in our eBird checklists.
Date: 9/17/18 7:21 pm From: Lauren Harter <lbharter...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZFO: Several new photos
Field Ornithologists,
Doug Jenness contributed photos of Roseate Spoonbill and Reddish Egret
and Lauren Harter contributed photos of Parasitic Jaeger and
Blue-footed Booby. Under “Out of Season”, Julian Donahue contributed
photos of Rufous-backed Robin. Thanks Doug, Julian, and Lauren!
Thanks to all who use the online form below to submit photos. It
makes our job a lot easier and ensures your photos will be posted more
quickly.
Hi folks, This evening as I was taking down the bird feeders at the Foothills Road feeders in Portal a Thick-billed Kingbird was calling from the large sycamore over the picnic table. I have only had this species on the property once before. Also, Crissal Thrashers have been quite vocal on and off throughout the day for several weeks. All for now.
New Mexico Rare Bird Report
September 17, 2018
Compiler: Matt Baumann
Phone: 505-264-1052
E-mail address: <mbaumann22...>
This is the New Mexico Rare Bird Report for September 17, 2018 sponsored by
the New Mexico Ornithological Society. When phone numbers are given for
private property, please call before going to ask for permission. In ranch
country, do not stray off the roads. Places mentioned in the report, a
checklist of N.M. birds, and more locations on uncommon and specialty
species can be found in the N.M. Bird Finding Guide. You can purchase the
NM Bird Finding Guide at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=83. A more
complete, updated version of the checklist can be found at
http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=1666 for prior records of species in New
Mexico, search the online archive of the NMOS Field Notes at
http://nhnm.unm.edu/partners/nmos/index.html.
NMOS is on Facebook, search for New Mexico Ornithological Society. All
individuals are encouraged to submit their observations to NMOS. This
includes not only records of Review List species and species potentially
new to the state, but also records of uncommon species, species of
conservation concern, records documenting breeding, and early, late, or
out-of-season/range birds. Details and photos should be sent to Sandy
Williams, 1819 Meadowview Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, or (preferred)
to <sunbittern...> Details will be used for NMOS Field Notes,
North American Birds, and the New Mexico Bird Records Committee.
NOTE: Additional reports of unseasonal birds or county rarities can be seen
on the eBird New Mexico Rare Bird Alert:
http://ebird.org/ebird/alert/summary?sid=SN35650. You do not need an eBird
account to view this.
Birds Mentioned and Counties (NMBRC review species are in CAPITAL
letters):
RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Curry, Dona Ana, Eddy)
Jaeger sp. (San Miguel)
Sabine’s Gull (Cibola)
Tricolored Heron (Chaves)
REDDISH EGRET (Eddy)
Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Curry)
RED-SHOULDERED HAWK (Eddy, Lea)
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Catron)
Great Crested Flycatcher (Roosevelt)
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Eddy)
Carolina Wren (Socorro)
RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROW (Hidalgo)
BALTIMORE ORIOLE (Roosevelt)
Hooded Warbler (Santa Fe)
CATRON County:
--Wootten and Zummach photographed a SHORT-TAILED HAWK along the Bursum Rd
east of Mogollon August 24. Location: Lat. 33.37, Long. 108.6861 About 1/2
mile before Sandy Point Turnout after Silver Creek Divide turnout. The
location is at the base of a talus slope in a burn.
CHAVES County:
--Landi reported a juvenile TRICOLORED HERON at Bitter Lake NWR August 10.
It was seen on Unit 5 and continued to September 9 at the Oxbow.
CIBOLA County:
--Score et al. reported a SABINE’S GULL at Bluewater Lake September 15.
CURRY County:
Beauprez reported a sub-adult male RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD at his Curry
Co home September 10.
--Parmeter reported four YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS at the CLOVIS WWTP
August 17. Three continued to September 16.
DONA ANA County:
--Tim Lawton has a RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD visiting his Las Cruces area
home since September 11. Contact him for further information
<tlawton...> It continued to September 14.
EDDY County:
--Kelly reported a RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD at the SKP RV Ranch north of
Brantley Lake September 10 and it continued to September 11.
--Nieman reported two TROPICAL KINGBIRDS in Carlsbad September 3. They were
seen in the park along the river near the railroad bridge (Lake Carlsbad).
One continued the following day.
--Nieman reported a white phase REDDISH EGRET at Lake Avalon August 25. It
continued at the northwest end of the lake to September 15.
--Nieman reported the continuing RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at Rattlesnake Springs
August 26.
HIDALGO County:
--Jaremko-Wright and Swackhamer reported two RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROWS in
Guadalupe Canyon July 15. Eight were present for Egelhoff and Hetrick
August 25.
LEA County:
--Nieman reported a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at the Tatum Sewage Ponds August
31.
ROOSEVELT County:
--A GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER was at the Melrose Trap September 11 to
September 16.
--Score reported a BALTIMORE ORIOLE at the Melrose Trap September 11.
SAN MIGUEL County:
--Godfrey reported an unknown JEAGER Sp. at Storrie Lake September 9.
SANTA FE County:
--Hardy reported a HOODED WARBLER at Santa Fe Canyon Preserve June 9.
Likely the same bid was reported to September 8.
SOCORRO County:
--Up to four CAROLINA WRENS are again present along the usual stretch of
the Seasonal Road, between the 90 degree turns, at Bosque del Apache.
Date: 9/17/18 6:31 am From: mary klinkel <munchita...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ Mt. Lemmon Incinerator Ridge
This is most likely American Snout (Libytheana carinenta) and they come up by the thousands or hundreds of thousands from MX in late Summer/Fall. Their host plant is hackberry, and their caterpillars are an important food source for migrating warblers & other birds. Take a closer look at them & see the “snout” (elongated labial palps).
Come out on field trips with Southeast AZ Butterfly Association, and join us for the Fall Santa Rita Mts butterfly count set for Sat. Sept. 29. Meet 7:30am at Safeway/McDonald’s parking lot at Continental Road just west of I-19.
Possible juvenile Short Tailed Hawk at the east facing overlook at the end of the road.
Not much in other birds, but there were thousands of high flying small dark butterflies all flying in the same direction (East) at the same altitude. Does anyone know anything about this migration?
Date: 9/16/18 9:05 pm From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] se AZ: Amado - Tricolored Heron
Mike Terenzoni reported that though he was unable to see the Tricolored Heron on his visit today (9/16), another birder told him that the heron was taking refuge under the dock-like structure in the northeast corner of the pond and hard to see from the road.
So it is evidently still around, but can be difficult to see.
On Wed, Sep 12, 2018 at 11:08 AM Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> wrote:
> From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert > AT tucsonaudubon.org): > > Richard Wilt reports: > There is a Tricolored Heron working the north bank of the Amado Sewage > Pond today, Wednesday. It was observed both at 9:15 am and 10:45 am. > > thanks Richard! > > Andrew Core > SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ > http://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/southeast-arizona-rare-bird-alert/ > >
Date: 9/16/18 6:52 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--16 Sep 2018
Hi, birders,
Another rewarding morning for the 10 people walking the Sierra Vista EOP dikes. The group tally was a high 86 species, with an additional 6 species noted by single observers as night gave way to early morning, accounting for an astonishing 92 species. This is probably the highest single day count for the EOP ever, made all the more exciting by adding a new species to the EOP bird list in the late morning.
Highlights today: VIRGINIA RAIL, SORA, and DICKCISSEL.
We neither heard nor saw any bitterns today, unlike last week's show. There was, however, a Virginia Rail well seen by everyone as it walked along the interface between the lower edge of a berm, the water line, and thick cattails in one of the main impoundments. At least 3 of the 9 Sora were also admired, with an immature Sora trying to pretend it wasn't there as it crouched in the meager shade of flooded grasses and algae in a Moson Road impoundment.
The best birds of the day were three different Dickcissels spotted in the mesquites edging the Moson Road impoundments in the late morning. It is not every day that we can add a new species to the EOP list.
First, an immature bird sporting a pale yellow eyebrow, thick eye ring, and white throat, but with its brown body largely covered by mesquite leaves, was spotted sitting high in a mesquite, repeatedly giving its distinctive call note. Then, a bit further along a pair was spotted, again sitting near the top of a mesquite, but these were much more colorful and vocal. The male's strong yellow eyebrow, white chin, bright yellow breast below a black throat patch, and bright russet shoulder patches made it an easy identification. Both birds were chipping, then gave deep, buzzy flight calls as they took off. Everyone in the group got good binocular looks and even scope views before the birds moved off.
Summary of the long list included 7 duck species, 7 raptor species, 5 shorebirds, 6 flycatcher species, a passing Warbling Vireo, 6 swallow species, 4 wren species (Marsh Wrens are back), 5 warbler species, 11 sparrows (first Green-tailed Towhees), Yellow-breasted Chat, Western Tanager, and 6 blackbird species.
Possible juvenile Short Tailed Hawk at the east facing overlook at the end of the road.
Not much in other birds, but there were thousands of high flying small dark butterflies all flying in the same direction (East) at the same altitude. Does anyone know anything about this migration?
Date: 9/16/18 4:04 pm From: David Vander Pluym <scre...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Continuing Jaeger and Booby
A group of us rented a boat this morning ( 16 Sep) and had excellent looks at both species on Lake Havasu. The Jaeger was all over the lake while the booby was at the north end of the lake. Both species were seen in both states.
Date: 9/16/18 10:48 am From: Scott Crabtree <the.crabtrees51...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Elf Owl
Hi all,
On two occasions in the past week, I've had an ELF OWL vocalizing in my back yard, once at around 0400, the other at 2040. Located in the Catalina Foothills of Tucson, there is ample habitat containing saguaro cactus which could be their breeding habitat.
Great Saturday morning spent in Sycamore Canyon off Ruby Road. Warblers were on the move with 9 species, including 2 Black-and-white Warblers (male and female). The canyon is full of butterflies and is pretty amazing right now!
Date: 9/15/18 5:32 pm From: David Stejskal <dstejskal...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Tri-colored Heron
Hi birders,
I just checked the Amado w.t.p. south of Green Valley late this afternoon and couldn’t find the Tricolored Heron seen earlier in the day. Maybe it occasionally wanders to another nearby pond, but all that I could find for herons during my brief visit were a juvenile GREEN HERON & a juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON.
Cheers,
Dave Stejskal
Field Guides Inc.
Sent from my iPhone
> On Sep 15, 2018, at 10:37 AM, <bncthay...> wrote:
>
> Tri-colored Heron still present Saturday morning at Amado
>
> Craig Thayer
> Tucson
>
> Sent from AOL Mobile Mail
> Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds > To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page.
> To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/15/18 12:49 pm From: Sharon Goldwasser <azfiddle...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ: Lakeside, Sam Lena parks
The Greater White-fronted Goose is still present at Lakeside Park- feeding in the grass with the Snow Goose and some mallards.
I had a single Lucy’s Warbler and a Plumbeous Vireo (with a somewhat less distinct eye ring than a typical Plumbeous) at the big wash just north of Valencia Rd.
At Sam Lena Park, there were three Green Herons, a Spotted Sandpiper, Great Egret and a Peregrine Falcon in the ponds west of the YMCA, and I was somewhat surprised to see another White-fronted Goose in the more secluded pond on the east side of Sam Lena Park (close to Country Club Dr), swimming amongst the Mallards.
Date: 9/15/18 10:37 am From: <bncthay...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Tri-colored Heron
Tri-colored Heron still present Saturday morning at Amado
Craig Thayer Tucson
Sent from AOL Mobile Mail Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/14/18 10:56 pm From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 14 September 2018
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Audubon Society's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona was made on September 14, 2018; the next update will be made on September 21. Phone your reports to 520-629-0510 X 3, or email to rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org.
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*) preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted at http://www.azfo.org/gallery/1main/whatIsABC.html.
For more information about Tucson Audubon field trips, lectures and educational opportunities, please see www.tucsonaudubon.org.
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT INCLUDE: #Tricolored Heron *WOOD STORK #Semipalmated Sandpiper Common Tern #Lucifer Hummingbird #Green Kingfisher *ROSE-THROATED BECARD #Black-capped Gnatcatcher #Louisiana Waterthrush #Clay-colored Sparrow #Painted Bunting #Dickcissel #Orchard Oriole
BENSON area A *WOOD STORK was photographed at a private pond on 9/8 (Laura Stewart) near St. David but was gone the next morning. A # CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was reported in a yard in the Dragoon Mountains on 9/11 (Arlene Ripley).
TUBAC area (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/yDqi0) A pair of *ROSE-THROATED BECARDS continued about 1/4 mile north of the Tubac bridge this week (m.ob.). A #PAINTED BUNTING continued this week (m.ob.). A pair of *ROSE-THROATED BECARDS continued along the De Anza Trail at Tumacacori this week (m.ob.); from the trailhead just north of the mission and opposite the post office, head east to the kiosk. There is a short spur to the river just east of here, and they have been seen in this area and just to the north. A #PAINTED BUNTING continued this week (m.ob.). A #GREEN KINGFISHER was reported along the De Anza Trail at Santa Gertrudis Lane 9/14 (Tim DeJonghe). Remember to park along the frontage road and walk in.
AMADO A #TRICOLORED HERON was reported at the Amado STP on 9/13 (Richard Wilt) and continued through 9/14 (m.ob.), though it occasionally departed and retuned.
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY A #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued on 9/9 (Michael Welch) at Lake Cochise by the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox. A #PAINTED BUNTING was photographed on 9/9 (Michael Welch). A # DICKCISSEL was reported in a yard in Willcox on 5/12 (Max Jarrett).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued at Ash Canyon B&B this week (m.ob.). At the San Pedro House, at least one #LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH was reported on 9/12 (John Broz) between markers #6 and #7 south of the bridge and was photographed on 9/14 (Rob Woodward), when a #CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was also photographed. A #DICKCISSEL was reported from Brown Canyon Ranch on 9/11 (Charity Hagen).
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/XfXfX) A #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRD continued this week (Dawn Zappone) in a yard near Horseshoe Canyon; a #CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was photographed on 9/13. An #ORCHARD ORIOLE was photographed on 9/12 (Rick Taylor) in a yard in Whitetail Canyon;
PATAGONIA At Patagonia Lake (annotated map: http://goo.gl/GgNvs), a #GREEN KINGFISHER and #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER continued this week (m.ob.) at the east end along the Birding Trail. Another one was photographed below the dam in the Sonoita Creek State Natural Area (permit required) on 9/2 (Pierre Deviche).
WHITEWATER DRAW A #GREEN KINGFISHER was photographed on 9/9 (Chet & Debbie Whiting) near the start of the trail around the berm at Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area.
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS In Madera Canyon (map: http://goo.gl/dXBYP), #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS continued along Proctor Rd this week (m.ob.).
MAMMOTH Two #CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS were photographed in a Mammoth yard on 9/9 (Jody Johnson).
TUCSON area A flyover #DICKCISSEL was reported in southeast Tucson on 9/8 (Brian Gibbons). A COMMON TERN was photographed at Arthur Pack Park on 9/12 (Carol Pierce).
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching" link on this page for important information regarding access: http://webcms.pima.gov/government/wastewaterreclamation/
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON B&B: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Wednesday, when open noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at http://www.huachuca.army.mil/pages/des/accesscontrol.html. The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and insurance as well. Foreign nationals must be accompanied by an approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE: apparently some states driver's licenses do not meet federal requirements for base entry (KY, ME, MT, PA, SC, MN, MO, and WA); see https://www.dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs or http://huachuca-www.army.mil/pages/des/visitoraccess.html for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open 7AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not linger, you will be locked inside).
GREEN VALLEY WRF: under construction, access uncertain. When open, use the call box at the gate, sign in and out at the office, and stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
ROGER ROAD WRF, CORONA DE TUCSON WRF, and NOGALES STP: Closed.
Date: 9/14/18 6:11 pm From: Tommy DeBardeleben <debardelebentommy...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Gila County Birding (12-13 Sept. 2018)
Hi Everyone,
On this recent Wednesday and Thursday, I continued to explore Gila County lowlands again.
Similar to last week, I went back to the San Carlos Reservation again on Wednesday the 12th. I started my day off at Tufa Stone Tank, making my third visit there in three weeks. It was fun as usual. In over 70 species at the site, I had highlights of Vaux's Swift, Red-necked Phalarope, a juvenile COMMON TERN, Prairie Falcon, CASSIN'S SPARROW (for real this time), the continuing GRASSHOPPER SPARROW (both seen within a minute of each other and roughly 30 feet apart), Indigo Bunting, and DICKCISSEL. I believe the tank already has close to 120 species in a combined effort of 4 checklists via eBird since August 30th.
Nearby Talkalai Lake hosted a FORSTER'S TERN, NORTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET, and LEAST BITTERNS.
An visit to San Carlos Lake that was meant to be an intended two hours or less turned into the rest of my day. While scanning the northern side of the lake from the south side of the lake, I saw a JAEGER swimming on the north side. This was my first Jaeger, and due to excitement of never seeing a Jaeger and wanting to get documentation of a bird I lack experience in, I left my viewpoint and tried to get closer. It was a horrible detour and idea, and I ended up going to the wrong spot where I thought the Jaeger was at but really wasn't. I spent the rest of my time looking but I couldn't refind the bird, a hard lesson to learn and I wish I would've stayed put at the spot where I first caught sight of it. It lifted up it's wing once while I watched it to reveal a nice row of white primary shafts. Time of year and record-wise indicate Parasitic Jaeger for a jaeger that shows striking primary shafts on it's upperwing. It was dark and had a bi-colored bill that I could see from the distance. I didn't care about any other birds at the lake once I saw the Jaeger.
I camped out at Roosevelt Lake that night and went to the town of Gisela on the morning of the 13th to bird that stretch of Tonto Creek extensively. Highlights I had at Gisela included watching 8 VAUX'S SWIFTS fly over in a short time span, 2 BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLERS, and a NORTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET. Seemed pretty far north for the latter.
After Tonto Creek via Gisela, I went back to Roosevelt Lake to close out the day. Bermuda Flat held the noteworthy highlights. The REDDISH EGRET continued. Bermuda has ideal and perfect shorebird habitat in many spots right now, especially where the creek flows into the lake. From this point there weren't any shorebirds, quite shocking. Walking further north up the creek from the lake turned up a smallish flock of Least and Western Sandpipers that hosted two PECTORAL SANDPIPERS. Another fun two days of birding under-birded areas.
I spent two and a half days (September 11th, 12th and 13th) birding the Springerville-Eagar area. Nothing real rare but lots of nice birds. Some of the places visited and species seen were as follows:
Concho Lake
A stop here produced a Bald Eagle, a flock of Cedar Waxwings, and the usual Phainopeplas and Townsend’s Solitaires. There was also an American Crow.
Lyman Lake
The water level was as low as I have ever seen it. Among the shorebirds were (2) Semipalmated Plovers, (1) Western Sandpiper and several Least and Spotted Sandpipers. There was a flock of (12) Red-necked Phalaropes out on the water. At the far end there were (2) American White Pelicans, a flock of (25) American Avocets, (6) Snowy Egrets and (1) Great Egret. Among the ducks was a flock of (6) Common Mergansers. Other birds seen around the lake included a Mountain Bluebird, Hairy Woodpecker, Great Horned Owl and a flock of about (300) Yellow-headed Blackbirds. There was a very large and continuing swallow migration every day with (6) different species.
South fork
Among the birds seen were (2) Gray Catbirds, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Hammonds, Dusky, and Western, Flycatchers, Pinyon Jays, and a lingering Hepatic Tanager. A Calliope Hummingbird was coming to a feeder at Sipe Wildlife Area.
Wenima
There was a nice assortment of birds here including Sage Thrasher, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Canyon Towhee, Gray Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, and a Nashville Warbler.
Becker Lake
Another Bald Eagle, Osprey, Northern Harrier, and a Lesser Goldfinch doing a great Plumbeous Vireo imitation.
About 116 species for the area including (9) sparrow species, (5) empidonax species, (8) warbler species and (6) swallow species.
Date: 9/14/18 1:14 pm From: Brian Nicholas <weehawker2...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ Amado Tricolored Heron continues
Seen at 12:20 on north shoreline. Brian Nicholas
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/14/18 8:59 am From: Marcia Lincoln <boahiss...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Miller Canyon Huachucas 9/13
Tried again for the Rufous-capped Warblers in upper Miller Canyon yesterday, no luck. In fact, I saw very few warblers period. One Black-throated Gray. Lots of vireos, White-breasted and Bridled Titmouse, Jays and Acorn Woodpeckers, a couple of Arizona Woodpeckers; heard the Goshawk but didn't see one this time. Highlight of the day was 2 Mexican Spotted Owls sitting fairly close to the trail in plain view. Can anyone tell me if the Rufous-capped Warblers stay here all year long or just in the summer? Thank you, it's a beautiful canyon with or without them.
Date: 9/14/18 6:46 am From: mary klinkel <munchita...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ: Costa's Hummingbird immature males
I’ve watched many of these over the past 20 years, and they are hilarious-looking as their purple feathers come in, but this year I’ve seen something new: a male with feathers coming in on one side only, reminds me of a college friend who shaved off his beard only on the left side of his face years ago!
Date: 9/13/18 11:47 am From: David Vander Pluym <scre...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Havasu Blue-footed Booby and continuing jaeger
Lauren Harter, Dave Stejskal and I scanned Lake Havasu this morning. The BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY continues on the California side of the lake. The PARASITIC JAEGER was at Mesquite Bay and I found an early PACIFIC LOON off the north end of Lake Havasu. No Sabine's Gulls were seen today or yesterday. Good birding.
David Vander Pluym Lake Havasu City
-----Original Message----- From: Lauren Harter <lbharter...> To: AZ/NM Listserv <aznmbirds...> Sent: Wed, Sep 12, 2018 8:27 am Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Havasu Blue-footed Booby and continuing jaeger
9/12/2018 - This morning from Pittsburgh Point on Lake Havasu I saw a young BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY as well as the continuing jaeger, which appears to be a Parasitic (need to examine photos).
The booby only did a fly-by along the Arizona side, interspersed with some diving, and headed south. No success in refinding it this morning, so it is unknown whether it will hang around the city or go somewhere else, potentially to the Bill Williams Delta.
The red and white lighthouse is the best vantage point at Pittsburgh Point (aka the Island).
Date: 9/13/18 10:20 am From: J P Hirth <jphmdh8...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Puerto Cyn, SEAZ
Hi All: There was an interesting warbler show around 9 AM at the spring near the iron fences, about 7 miles into Puerto Canyon. In 25 minutes, watching the two tiny ponds, I saw the following warblers: Nashville (4), MacGillivray’s (2) and one each of: Wilson’s, Black-throated Gray, Lucy’s and Orange-crowned. There was also one Townsend’s in the cottonwoods. Full list on e-bird.
Good birding,
Jon Hirth
Green Valley, AZ
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
As Andrew reported I saw a first-year ROSEATE SPOONBILL this morning at a flooded alfalfa field north of Stanfield in Pinal County. This is the 7th record that I know of for Pinal Co.
The field also had 125 CATTLE EGRETS, 91 LONG-BILLED CURLEWS, 47 WHITE-FACED IBIS, and several GREATER YELLOWLEGS. Many of the birds appeared to be feeding on the abundance of dragonflies in the field. My report on eBird can be seen at https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S48465079
The field is on the east side of Stanfield Rd. so easily viewable from a public location. The spoonbill was relatively close to the road, mostly hanging out with the egrets. It was about 0.5 mi. n. of Barnes Rd.
I also observed a juvenile SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER at White Star Dairy in the Stanfield area.
A quick drive through the Santa Cruz Flats produced an OSPREY on Phillips Rd. and an adult FERRUGINOUS HAWK along Pretzer, about 2 miles from where one was reported the week before so possibly the same bird. Both dates are earlier than the previous early record for this species at the Flats, which was 26 September.
Doug Jenness
Tucson, AZ
________________________________
From: <aznmbirds-request...> <aznmbirds-request...> on behalf of Andrew Core <tucsonrba...>
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2018 4:31 PM
To: AZNM
Subject: [AZNMbirds] Pinal County - Roseate Spoonbill
From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3<tel:520-629-0510%20X%203> or rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org<http://tucsonaudubon.org/>):
Doug Jenness called (9:15am on 9/12) to report a Roseate Spoonbill in a flooded field west of Casa Grande in the Stanfield area.
It is on the east side of Stanfield Rd between Barnes and Miller Rd. (note that Miller Rd is also called Louis Johnson Rd on Google Maps).
It is across from the dairy in a flooded field with about 125 Cattle Egrets, White-faced Ibis, Long-billed Curlews etc.
Sent from the Desert Harrier iPhone
Desert Harrier Guide Services
Laurens Halsey
Green Valley, AZ
> On Sep 12, 2018, at 11:08 AM, Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> wrote:
>
> From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org):
>
> Richard Wilt reports:
> There is a Tricolored Heron working the north bank of the Amado Sewage Pond today, Wednesday. It was observed both at 9:15 am and 10:45 am.
>
> thanks Richard!
>
> Andrew Core
> SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ
> http://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/southeast-arizona-rare-bird-alert/ >
> Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds > To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page.
> To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/12/18 3:07 pm From: J P Hirth <jphmdh8...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Tri-colored Heron, AZ
Still present at 2:20 PM. Seen by three birders. Flew off to the North at 2:35 PM. However, it perched for a while on a power line so it could return.
Good Birding,
John Hirth
Green Valley, AZ
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/12/18 1:56 pm From: Steve Valasek <botheringbirds...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] Pinal County - Roseate Spoonbill
I'm down here now, but I don't have my spotting scope. So I can't pick the spoonbill out from the other white birds.
I found a better location to look north into the field. 32.923083,-111.954979
-Steve Valasek
On Wed, Sep 12, 2018, 09:32 Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> wrote:
> From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert > AT tucsonaudubon.org): > > Doug Jenness called (9:15am on 9/12) to report a Roseate Spoonbill in a > flooded field west of Casa Grande in the Stanfield area. > > It is on the east side of Stanfield Rd between Barnes and Miller Rd. (note > that Miller Rd is also called Louis Johnson Rd on Google Maps). > > It is across from the dairy in a flooded field with about 125 Cattle > Egrets, White-faced Ibis, Long-billed Curlews etc. > > Approximate map: https://goo.gl/maps/Lc1KEkAbLAr > GPS: 32.930191, -111.963854 > > thanks Doug! > > Andrew Core > SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ > http://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/southeast-arizona-rare-bird-alert/ > Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds > To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. > To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/12/18 12:43 pm From: john broz <johnbroz1944...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ, Sierra Vista, San Pedro House, Louisiana Waterthrush
One and possibly two Louisiana Waterthrushes were seen and heard this morning on the Wednesday Bird Walk. The sightings were at the River near a large pile of logs between markers #6 and 7. A female MacGillivray’s Warbler was seen just past the first curve in Garden Wash west of del Valle Road while an Indigo Bunting was seen along the trail between Kingfisher Pond and the River.
Every Wednesday Bird Walks for the fall, winter, and spring have started and the next bird walk is next Wednesday, September 19th at 7. The last couple of Bird Walks in September of last year were quite good.
John BrozSierra Vista
Date: 9/12/18 11:12 am From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] se AZ: Amado - Tricolored Heron
From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org):
Richard Wilt reports: There is a Tricolored Heron working the north bank of the Amado Sewage Pond today, Wednesday. It was observed both at 9:15 am and 10:45 am.
Date: 9/12/18 8:27 am From: Lauren Harter <lbharter...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Havasu Blue-footed Booby and continuing jaeger
9/12/2018 - This morning from Pittsburgh Point on Lake Havasu I saw a young BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY as well as the continuing jaeger, which appears to be a Parasitic (need to examine photos).
The booby only did a fly-by along the Arizona side, interspersed with some diving, and headed south. No success in refinding it this morning, so it is unknown whether it will hang around the city or go somewhere else, potentially to the Bill Williams Delta.
The red and white lighthouse is the best vantage point at Pittsburgh Point (aka the Island).
Date: 9/11/18 12:51 pm From: David Vander Pluym <scre...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Lake Havasu continuing Jaeger and Sabine's Gulls
Today 9/11 Lauren Harter and I scanned the Lake Havasu. The JAEGER continued and though we are keeping it as a slash we both lean Parasitic on it, but photos show a couple points that might be better for Long-tailed so better views are desired. The bird today was hanging off Mesquite Bay, hopefully, it is there again tomorrow. We also had at least 3 continuing adult SABINE'S GULLS, yesterday had 4 adults and a juvie breaking my previous total number of adults in Arizona. The birds were hanging out on the Arizona side of the lake but could easily make it over to the California side (which is difficult to see right now due to heat haze). Good birding.
Date: 9/11/18 9:06 am From: Sharon Goldwasser <azfiddle...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ - SE Tucson fly by Osprey and misc.
I had an unexpected sighting of an Osprey flying near the Pantano Wash at Sellarole Road (west of Harrison) on my way in to work this am.
Migrants numbers are down, but I’m still seeing the occasional warbler Wilson’s and Nashville this week), Blue Grosbeak immature and a few Green-tailed Towhees have been lurking in the washes between Irvington and Valencia Roads.
I occasionally see a Peregrine somewhere between 22nd and Sellarole along the Pantano, but not predictably in one place.
Happy birding.
Sharon Goldwasser
Desert Sky Middle School
Team B Science
879-2739
<goldwassers...> <mailto:<goldwassers...>
Date: 9/10/18 7:27 am From: scre <scre...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Havasu jaeger and Sabines Gulls
Just arrived at Pittsburgh Pt on Lake Havasu and have had a distant LT/PARASITIC JAEGER and 2 adult and a juv SABINE'S GULLS. David Vander PluymLake Havasu City
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphoneHome Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/9/18 7:33 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--09 Sep 2018
Hi, birders,
Another stellar day for the 14 of us who walked the Sierra Vista EOP dikes this morning. At the end of the morning the group tally was 86 species, including three species from a predawn count.
Highlights were: SORA, VAUX'S SWIFT, AM. BITTERN, and LEAST BITTERN, all of these seen by everyone. At least 8 Sora were calling today, with binocular views of a young bird on a cattail mat in the first cattail bed. The Vaux's Swift was flying straight along the dike towards us, flew right over our heads, and continued south.
A few minutes later an adult Am. Bittern was flushed from the edge of the cattails and flew heavily away. It was relocated when it flew again, landing on dead cattails for scope views. Between the Am. Bittern sightings, two Least Bitterns were located in the same impoundment--one playing hard to see in the upper cattails, and the other foraging just above the water level, allowing scope views as it climbed around.
Such good birds put the continuing shorebird show down the list, but we did have six species in the shrinking rain pools. Five flying Snowy Egrets, seen twice, were a good find, along with Great Blue Heron and Green Heron.
The long list of species consisted 1-5 birds of this and that, although a large 200+ flock of Barn Swallows perched in bulrushes was quite a sight, with small numbers of other swallow species among them. The usual flycatchers were augmented by W. Wood-Pewee and Pacific-Slope Flycatcher; Cassin's Kingbird was notable for its absence. Newly arrived sparrows included Brewer's, Vesper, and Lincoln's. The first Brewer's Blackbird of the season was among a mixed blackbird flock.
Today (9/9) I got quite a surprise bird at my feeders (near Silver City, NM; Grant Co.): my first ever in this location GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET. I was on my screened-in porch washing some art brushes while watching the peanut and seed feeders which were attracting perhaps 25 BUSHTITS (so many on the suet feeders that the cages holding the suet cakes were invisible through the bird bodies), nearly as many BRIDLED TITMICE (Titmouses?), a HOUSE WREN, and a BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, among other birds (HOUSE FINCHES, CANYON TOWHEES, SPOTTED TOWHEES, CURVE-BILLED THRASHERS, 2 remaining male BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAKS and 1 female WESTERN TANAGER). A small gray bird was accompanying the feeding frenzy flock at the peanut feeders which flashed me a bright yellow head. Paying closer attention, I was able to see the golden crown quite clearly, as well as the black lines bordering the yellow and the black eye stripe. The throat was clearly lighter than the rest of the body. I ran inside for my camera and tried to photograph the bird, which then was only partially visible on the opposite side of the feeder and the tree trunk. He played hide-and-seek for a half minute, then took off with the rest of the flock of Bushtits away from the yard when I tried to sneak outside for a better photo vantage point. I never did get a usable picture, alas.
9/9/2018 - David Vander Pluym and I checked a few sites around Parker this morning. We had decent numbers of migrants but all common species, with the exception of a female BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD at 'Ahakhav Tribal Preserve, feeding on blooming desert willows near the restroom.
Date: 9/9/18 11:49 am From: Michael Welch <mjwelch244...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Probable Painted Bunting at Willcox and a Gr. White-fronted Goose at Benson
At Willcox this morning, I photographed an immature Bunting with a green back, so I believe it is an immature Painted Bunting. The bird popped up from the reeds along the road that goes along the pond closest the golf course on the west side. On the way home, I checked the Benson pond next to the animal shelter and found a Greater White-fronted Goose on the far shore. Photos of both will be in my ebird submissions.
Date: 9/9/18 8:44 am From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] se AZ: St. David area - Wood Stork
Just an update - Laura reports that the Wood Stork was gone this morning (9/9); hopefully it gets refound wherever it landed.
Andrew
On Sat, Sep 8, 2018 at 9:35 PM Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> wrote:
> From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert > AT tucsonaudubon.org): > > Laura Stewart sent some photos of a WOOD STORK taken this evening at an > ephemeral pond near St. David (Cochise County). It was on private property > along the San Pedro River and near (but not at) the monastery. > > The TAS guide lists 3 records since the 1970s for southeastern AZ. > > If the bird sticks around there *may* be an opportunity to see it. No > promises but I will update here if so. > > thanks Laura! > > Andrew Core > SEAZ RBA Compiler - Tucson, AZ > http://tucsonaudubon.org/go-birding/southeast-arizona-rare-bird-alert/ >
Date: 9/9/18 12:03 am From: David Wright <dwmea...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Green Kingfisher, Patagonia Lake
The highlight of a quick stop at Patagonia Lake late this morning (Sat 8 Sep) was a female Green Kingfisher on the Birding Trail (a little after 11 am, maybe 10 yds downstream of the streamside Upper/Lower trail junction). And the White Pelican was still present on the lake.
Date: 9/8/18 9:36 pm From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] se AZ: St. David area - Wood Stork
From the Tucson Audubon Society's RBA (520-629-0510 X 3 or rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org):
Laura Stewart sent some photos of a WOOD STORK taken this evening at an ephemeral pond near St. David (Cochise County). It was on private property along the San Pedro River and near (but not at) the monastery.
The TAS guide lists 3 records since the 1970s for southeastern AZ.
If the bird sticks around there *may* be an opportunity to see it. No promises but I will update here if so.
Date: 9/8/18 5:22 pm From: Troy Corman <aplomado...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ: Maricopa Co., Morgan City Wash - Red-eyed Vireo
I spent over five hours exploring the Morgan City Wash area today, including the adjacent Agua Fria River bottom. This desert oasis, just south of Lake Pleasant, was uncomfortably warm for much of the hike and the mosquitoes in the riparian area along the river bottom were quite bothersome. However, a visit here during migration is almost always worth the effort if you don't mind bushwhacking your way around. I managed to identify about 75 warblers of eight expected species and four vireo species. The highlight was a RED-EYED VIREO in the upper riparian section of Morgan City Wash. This is actually the third record for this location with the last in 2016. All have been in September. Other noteworthy finds included an adult COMMON BLACK HAWK (only a migrant here) and my first of the fall and a little early, WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW. The latter was a juvenile, possibly one of the dark-lored races.
Date: 9/8/18 3:46 pm From: Clifford Cathers <cacathers...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZ:09/08/18:TAS Willcox Benson St David
I led the Tucson Audubon Society field trip today to Willcox Cochise Lakes, Benson WWTP and St David Monastery this Saturday morning. It was an excellent day of birding despite the heat creeping back in.
Cochise Lakes was hopping with birds this morning with 2 SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERs, 1 SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, 30 BLACK-NECKED STILTs, 111 AMERICAN AVOCETs, 8 KILLDEER, 1 SPOTTED SANDPIPER, 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 BAIRDS SANDPIPER, 150 LEAST SANDPIPERs, 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER, 4 WESTERN SANDPIPERs, 350 or so WILSON'S PHALAROPEs, 7 RED-NECKED PHALAROPEs, 4 BLACK TERNs, 1 GREAT EGRET, 18 WHITE-FACED IBIS and 2 SWAINSON'S HAWKs, among others.
Over at the golf course pond, a bright NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH flew up from beneath the large willow for a short view. There was also a BELTED KINGFISHER, BLACK PHOEBE, VERMILION FLYCATCHER, WILSONS WARBLER, YELLOW WARBLER and a COMMON YELLOWTHROAT.
Benson Wastewater Treatment Plant is mostly dried up these days with the south pond filled in and vegetated. The north pond is getting "chunky", enough said. We did see a nice flock of YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRDs, a SPOTTED SANDPIPER, a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, 1 REDHEAD, MEXICAN MALLARDs and a few others.
The St. David Holy Trinity Monastery was mostly hot in the low 90's but we did see several TROPICAL KINGBIRDs, CASSIN'S KINGBIRDs, WESTERN KINGBIRDs, WESTERN WOOD PEWEE, CEDAR WAXWINGs, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, VERMILION FLYCATCHER and more. We were kite-less while in town.
Date: 9/8/18 2:49 pm From: Bernard Morris <mtnbluebird...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] CNM: Red-eyed Vireo in Corrales, Sandoval Co.
This morning we had a Red-eyed Vireo at the Dixon Rd. access of the Corrales Bosque. From Corrales Rd., go SE on Dixon Rd. and drive to the end of the road. Walk over the two ditches, and go right along the levee about 1/2 mile. The bird was seen near the can marked 2.7. In the same general area we also had two Gray Catbirds and a Northern Waterthrush. ID details are on my eBird report.
Bernie & Pauline Morris
Albuquerque
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/8/18 10:32 am From: Chris McCreedy <cristofolos...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Cochise/ Northern Waterthrush Lake Cochise
There is a Northern Waterthrush in the big weeping willow next to the golf course, the one near the power station that you can just walk up to from the parking lot on the south side of the course. It is the third Northern Waterthrush I have seen in this tree on my last two visits here.
Date: 9/8/18 8:35 am From: Tommy DeBardeleben <debardelebentommy...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZ: Gila County Birding (September 5-6 2018)
Hi Everyone,
This past Wednesday and Thursday, September 5-6th, I birded in the Gila County lowlands and covered tanks, riparian areas, and lakes.
Most of Wednesday was spent on the San Carlos Reservation. I was pumped to go back to Tufa Stone Tank after I enjoyed it as much as I did on my first visit (previously posted). The tank was just as great again this time. Janine McCabe was also there to check it out, and we alerted each other to cool birds we were finding during the morning. Highlights for me included 2 DICKCISSEL, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE, 9 Shorebird species, Bald Eagle, Vaux's Swift, SAGE THRASHER, flyover PECTORAL SANDPIPER, etc. What I initially thought was a Grasshopper Sparrow in the field and then called a Cassin's Sparrow, has turned out to be a GRASSHOPPER SPARROW. I don't know how I mixed those species up, but I did. When reviewing my pictures it was clear, "Duh Tommy, CASP never has a round BOLD complete eye ring and a short tail". In the same spot last week, I heard what I thought was a Grasshopper Sparrow calling briefly, but the calls remained inconclusive. It was likely there for at least a week as of a few days ago if that assumption is correct. There were many many migrants, and between Janine and I combined, I believe we detected about 90 species between the two of us (each of us had birds the other didn't!). As long as the water stays intact, I think this place will stay awesome and full of birds. There is no right or wrong way to bird this spot, but if one wants to navigate around to the western side of the tank where the willows are (which have been full of migrants each visit), you'll probably have to walk through tall and wet grass and weeds that are on the north side of the tank in order to get to that western side. This grassy section at the northern side of the tank are where the two Dickcissels were found, and the potential for other birds that favor such habitat may certainly show up too. Here is the eBird hotspot page for Tufa Stone Tank:
I spent some time later scanning San Carlos Lake. Janine was there too, and she spent much more time than I did at the lake and she probably found many awesome birds. I enjoyed seeing 3 BLACK TERNS fishing over a portion of the lake, as well as a flock of GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE. The water levels are extremely low on San Carlos Lake right now, and there is water on the western fourth of the lake. It makes the birding interesting, as most of the lake's water birds are congregated along the southwest portion of the lake, which is mostly in Pinal County. There are marshy channels of the lake too, which were hosting an abundance of birds that included at least 300 AMERICAN AVOCETS (most I've ever seen at one time).
A permit is needed to bird on the San Carlos Reservation, and a permit is $10 per person. Permits can be purchased at two 24/7 stores on the east side of Globe: Circle K 1.25 mi. west of the intersection of US 70 and AZ 77, and Good to Go 2.3 mi west of the same intersection.
After San Carlos I went to Roosevelt Lake later in the afternoon, where I ran into Dara Vazquez and birded with her for awhile, as she was completing an awesome day of birding. AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN numbers are picking up at the south side of Roosevelt Lake, which is viewed best from Schoolhouse Point Rec Site. This rec site, along with Bermuda Flat Recreation Site, the north and south parts of the lake, usually offer the best chances of seeing greater bird diversity on the lakes than the other recreation sites. The REDDISH EGRET I reported a few weeks ago continued at Bermuda Flat after not being present Wednesday or Thursday of last week.
Camping at Roosevelt Lake I heard WESTERN SCREECH, GREAT HORNED, and BARN OWLS during the night, and my truck was surrounded at times by howling Coyotes, all great sounds to hear and enjoy at night!
On Thursday, September 6th, I started the day off by birding along Tonto Creek north of Roosevelt Lake. When I've birded this area in the past, I've usually covered the dense riparian jungles accessed via Bar X Road. While the habitat is awesome, there is a ton of it. I decided this time to explore the riparian corridor via A Cross Road. There is great habitat, but there is much less of it, giving a better chance to detect things. I wasn't disappointed. In over 50 species present at this awesome spot, my highlights were DICKCISSEL, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, LARK BUNTING, and a flyover VAUX'S SWIFT. Here is a link to my eBird checklist for this location, which includes a link to the map location:
I spent the rest of the day at Roosevelt Lake before heading home. Bermuda Flat had perfect shorebird conditions at the northern reach of the lake, but only one Killdeer. I was shocked. The REDDISH EGRET continued again on this visit, and it was feeding and foraging with Great and Snowy Egrets and Great Blue Herons, kinda cool to see the species mix. Roosevelt Lake was pretty quiet for activity, but when I got to Schoolhouse Point to conclude the day, I enjoyed seeing a flock of 16 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE as well as 6 BLACK TERNS foraging over a section of the lake. One smallish tern thing that was larger than the Black Terns interested me, but it was far too distant for me to get an identification.
Date: 9/7/18 11:16 pm From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 7 September 2018
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Audubon Society's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona was made on September 7, 2018; the next update will be made on September 14. Phone your reports to 520-629-0510 X 3, or email to rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org.
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*) preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted at http://www.azfo.org/gallery/1main/whatIsABC.html.
For more information about Tucson Audubon field trips, lectures and educational opportunities, please see www.tucsonaudubon.org.
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT INCLUDE: #Whimbrel #Semipalmated Sandpiper #Short-billed Dowitcher #Lucifer Hummingbird #Green Kingfisher #Eastern Phoebe #Scissor-tailed Flycatcher *ROSE-THROATED BECARD #Black-capped Gnatcatcher #Rufous-capped Warbler #Clay-colored Sparrow #Painted Bunting #Dickcissel
TUBAC area (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/yDqi0) A pair of *ROSE-THROATED BECARDS continued along the De Anza Trail at Tumacacori this week (m.ob.); from the trailhead just north of the mission and opposite the post office, head east to the kiosk. There is a short spur to the river just east of here, and they have been seen in this area and just to the north. A *ROSE-THROATED BECARD was reported along the De Anza Trail at Santa Gertrudis Lane on 9/1 (Ken Murphy). Remember to park along the frontage road and walk in.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS A #WHIMBREL was reported from Pretzer Rd on 9/5 (Doug Jenness, Tim DeJonghe).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY Two #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS continued on 9/6 (Andy Moore) at Lake Cochise by the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox.
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS A #SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER was photographed at the Green Valley WWTP on 9/4 (Ricardo Barrios) and continued through 9/6 (m.ob.), the first report since early August. Visitors MUST check in before birding. Protocol for visiting: The facility is open from 8am-2pm (some sources say beginning at 7am); use the call box at the gate, sign in and out at the office on the west side of the complex, and stay away from buildings and construction equipment. If gate is open, proceed to office to sign in. Access depends on being able to get a worker to answer the call button; they aren't always in the office, and sometimes a wait is necessary. When done, sign out at the office. The bird has been frequenting the southeast pond, which is somewhat visible from outside the fence. Failure to abide by these regulations will result in a closure of the facility to birders. In Montosa Canyon (annotated map: http://goo.gl/8L8tv) a #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER continued this week (m.ob.) near the culvert, upstream of the concrete stream crossing. In Madera Canyon (map: http://goo.gl/dXBYP), #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS continued along Proctor Rd this week (m.ob.). A #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRD continued in Box Canyon on 9/7 (Laurens Halsey) about 6.7 miles east of Madera Canyon Rd. Five-striped Sparrows continued in nearly the same spot this week (m.ob.). In Florida Canyon (annotated map: http://goo.gl/AAzD6), a #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER continued this week (m.ob.) in the West Fork above the dam. Directions: About 400 yards from parking lot is a metal gate, and just past the gate the canyon forks. The main trail follows the East Fork, but most sightings have been in the West Fork to the right. About 125 yards up the rough trail in the West Fork is a large water tank and a low dam. The oak grove is about 1/3 mile past the dam. Note: The trail for the West Fork can be difficult to find, and is steep and rough in places. If you see the sign with distances to Florida Saddle, Madera Canyon, etc you've missed the turn. It is not necessary, recommended or permissible to enter the research station to see these birds.
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued at Ash Canyon B&B this week (m.ob.).
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/XfXfX) One or two #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued this week (Rick Taylor) in a yard in Whitetail Canyon; an #EASTERN PHOEBE was reported on 9/6. A #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRD continued this week (Dawn Zappone) in a yard near Horseshoe Canyon; a #CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was photographed on 9/3.
PATAGONIA At Patagonia Lake (annotated map: http://goo.gl/GgNvs), a #GREEN KINGFISHER continued this week on 9/4 (Cathy Beck) at the east end along the Birding Trail. Another one was photographed below the dam in the Sonoita Creek State Natural Area (permit required) on 9/2 (Pierre Deviche).
TUCSON area A flyby #SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER was reported near the intersection of La Canada Dr and Magee Rd in Oro Valley on 9/4 (Larry Norris). Flyover #DICKCISSELS were reported in northwest Tucson at the El Rio Preserve on 9/3 (Andrew Core) and in southeast Tucson on 9/1 and 9/5 (Brian Gibbons), when one was photographed in flight.
NOGALES area #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS continued this week (m.ob.) at the south end of California Gulch at the confluence with Warsaw Canyon. Annotated map: http://goo.gl/wSr0mi At Pena Blanca Lake (annotated map: http://goo.gl/zBbzl), a # LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH continued on 9/1 (m.ob.). A #PAINTED BUNTING was reported along the Anza Tail at Palo Parado Rd on 9/3 (Bill Lisowsky). A #PAINTED BUNTING was reported at Cemetery Tank on FR4125 west of Warsaw Canyon on 9/1 (Caleb Strand).
BENSON area A #DICKCISSEL was photographed in a yard in the Dragoon Mountains on 9/1 (Arlene Ripley).
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching" link on this page for important information regarding access: http://webcms.pima.gov/government/wastewaterreclamation/
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON B&B: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Wednesday, when open noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at http://www.huachuca.army.mil/pages/des/accesscontrol.html. The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and insurance as well. Foreign nationals must be accompanied by an approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE: apparently some states driver's licenses do not meet federal requirements for base entry (KY, ME, MT, PA, SC, MN, MO, and WA); see https://www.dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs or http://huachuca-www.army.mil/pages/des/visitoraccess.html for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open 7AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not linger, you will be locked inside).
GREEN VALLEY WRF: 8am-2pm; use the call box at the gate, sign in and out at the office, and stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
ROGER ROAD WRF, CORONA DE TUCSON WRF, and NOGALES STP: Closed.
Date: 9/7/18 9:34 pm From: Mary Jo Ballator <mjballator...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ: Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary Hummingbirds, Huachuca Mountains
The peak of the hummingbird season is here now. Today, there were many individuals of six species (Broad-billed, Anna’s, Black-chinned, Rivoli’s, Lucifer, and Rufous) and one each of Violet-crowned and Broad-tailed. Last weekend, in addition to all these, were a female Calliope, and a young male Costa’s. The numbers of individuals are very high at the moment. Come soon for the most birds.
There is just one more month in 2017 to see the Lucifers here. They leave for Mexico just after the first week of October, after which we will not see them again until mid-March, 2019.
Mary Jo
Mary Jo Ballator
Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary (formerly Ash Canyon B&B)
5255 E. Spring Road
Hereford, AZ 85615
Web site: ashcanyon.com
520-378-0773
<mjballator...>
Hours: Dawn to dusk daily except Wednesday noon to dusk
Date: 9/7/18 3:38 pm From: Tim Helentjaris <tnhelentjaris...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Return to The Gulch
Figured I would give it a few days to dry out before trying to get back down to California Gulch after Monday’s aborted attempt. Didn’t make it very far past even Amado that day but not surprising given that they got somewhere between 3 and 5 inches of rain the previous night. This morning, the road from there to Arivaca was fine, the dirt/mud berms were all pushed out and the Road Closed Signs back on the side of the road. From Arivaca to the turn-off, the road was about as usual, not great, and the road on down to the confluence was about the same, with just the usual two large pools shortly after the turn-off. Given they are pretty hard-bottomed, they’re not an issue, so made it down by sun-up this morning.
A lot of bird activity this morning, singing and frenzied feeding, as migrants woke up and began to eat those bugs as fast as they could find them. As I and others have mentioned recently, the pulse of NASHVILLE and WILSON’S WARBLERS along with WARBLING VIREOS were all still in evidence. Also had three species of tanagers there, SUMMER and WESTERN were expected, but I was a little surprised by the female HEPATIC TANAGER. The FIVE-STRIPED SPARROWS were still actively singing on the hillsides along here and I also picked up BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS in a couple of spots.
I spent the greater part of my effort trying to refind the Nutting’s Flycatcher but to no avail. For that part, there weren’t many flycatchers I would have to worry about confusing it with, just VERMILION FLYCATCHERS, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, and one PACIFIC SLOPE passing through. I thought I might have heard a tell-tale “wheep" or “wheek" but there was so much aural pollution from the many YELLOW-BREASTED CHATS goofing on me, I am sure it was just them. Lot of little toads underfoot everywhere down here, it is very green and seems to have benefitted from a lot of rain this monsoon.
Tim Helentjaris
Tucson, AZ
“I wake to sleep, and take my waking slow.
I feel my fate in what I cannot fear.
I learn by going where I have to go.”
- The Waking, Theodore Roethke
The duo of Tropical Kingbirds found by Neiman earlier in the week continue this morning just south of the water slide area on the west side (across the street) near an alley and a sports complex. This is on the west side of Lake Carlsbad. Approximate coordinates: 32.4269628, -104.2211597 Both were heard calling briefly, but we're mostly silent. Lots of European Starlings giving similar trilling noises can make it difficult to track them down at times. Happy Birding,
Date: 9/6/18 9:53 am From: Jerry Friedman <jerry_friedman...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RFI Sedona this weekend
Hi, all. What would be good places for birding in or near Sedona this weekend?
A co-worker who's something of a birder told me he's meeting friends there, and he recently found out that friends of theirs are joining the get-together and would like to do some birding, and my co-worker is in charge, since he has some familiarity with Sedona. He hasn't heard anything about target species--his idea is just to spend a morning or less in a pleasant spot with good chances for some pretty birds.
He's thinking of walking along Oak Creek, but he'd be interested in any other suggestions.
Jerry Friedmanhas never been to Sedona
New Mexico Rare Bird Report September 5, 2018 Compiler: Matt Baumann Phone: 505-264-1052 E-mail address: <mbaumann22...>
This is the New Mexico Rare Bird Report for September 5, 2018 sponsored by the New Mexico Ornithological Society. When phone numbers are given for private property, please call before going to ask for permission. In ranch country, do not stray off the roads. Places mentioned in the report, a checklist of N.M. birds, and more locations on uncommon and specialty species can be found in the N.M. Bird Finding Guide. You can purchase the NM Bird Finding Guide at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=83. A more complete, updated version of the checklist can be found at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=1666 for prior records of species in New Mexico, search the online archive of the NMOS Field Notes at http://nhnm.unm.edu/partners/nmos/index.html.
NMOS is on Facebook, search for New Mexico Ornithological Society. All individuals are encouraged to submit their observations to NMOS. This includes not only records of Review List species and species potentially new to the state, but also records of uncommon species, species of conservation concern, records documenting breeding, and early, late, or out-of-season/range birds. Details and photos should be sent to Sandy Williams, 1819 Meadowview Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, or (preferred) to <sunbittern...> Details will be used for NMOS Field Notes, North American Birds, and the New Mexico Bird Records Committee. NOTE: Additional reports of unseasonal birds or county rarities can be seen on the eBird New Mexico Rare Bird Alert: http://ebird.org/ebird/alert/summary?sid=SN35650. You do not need an eBird account to view this.
Birds Mentioned and Counties (NMBRC review species are in CAPITAL letters): Upland Sandpiper (Bernalillo) SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER (Sierra) Tricolored Heron (Chaves) REDDISH EGRET (Eddy) Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Chaves, Curry) RED-SHOULDERED HAWK (Eddy) SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Catron) EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE (Curry) Great Crested Flycatcher (Lea, Roosevelt) TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Eddy) Carolina Wren (Sandoval, Socorro) RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROW (Hidalgo) Hooded Warbler (Bernalillo, Santa Fe) Chestnut-sided Warbler (Bernalillo, Curry)
BERNALILLO County: --Griffith and Ramsey reported an UPLAND SANDPIPER at Valle de Oro NWR August 31. It continued to the following day.
--Haughawout reported a CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER at the Rio Grande Nature Center August 29 just south of the visitors center. It continued the following day.
--Morris reported a young male/female HOODED WARBLER in the bosque south of Montano August 17. It was seen near the river about half way from Montano to the trail going out to the pumping station. It continued to August 30.
CATRON County: --Wootten and Zummach photographed a SHORT-TAILED HAWK along the Bursum Rd east of Mogollon August 24. Location: Lat. 33.37, Long. 108.6861 About 1/2 mile before Sandy Point Turnout after Silver Creek Divide turnout. The location is at the base of a talus slope in a burn.
CHAVES County: --Landi reported a juvenile TRICOLORED HERON at Bitter Lake NWR August 10. It was seen on Unit 5 and continued to August 19 near the oxbow.
--a juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was reported at Bitter Lake NWR August 15 by Bennett and Collins at Unit 7. It continued to August 17.
CURRY County: --Rustay, Drilling, and Beauprez reported a CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER and an EASTERN WOOD-PEWEE at Ned Houk Park September 3.
--Parmeter reported four YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS at the CLOVIS WWTP August 17. Three continued to August 31.
EDDY County: --Nieman reported two TROPICAL KINGBIRDS in Carlsbad September 3. They were seen in the park along the river near the railroad bridge (Lake Carlsbad). One continued the following day.
--Nieman reported a white phase REDDISH EGRET at Lake Avalon August 25.
--Buckley, Brozek, and Nieman reported a juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON at Rattlesnake Springs August 26. It was seen at the spring at the west end of the park.
--Nieman reported the continuing RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at Rattlesnake Springs August 26.
HIDALGO County: --Jaremko-Wright and Swackhamer reported two RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROWS in Guadalupe Canyon July 15. Eight were present for Egelhoff and Hetrick August 25.
LEA County: --Nieman reported a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at the Tatum Sewage Ponds August 31.
--Nieman reported a GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER at Conoco Pond August 31.
ROOSEVELT County: --Rustay and Drilling reported a GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER at the Melrose Trap September 2.
SANDOVAL County: --the Thursday birders reported a CAROLINA WREN at Las Huertas Picnic Area August 16.
SANTA FE County: --Hardy reported a HOODED WARBLER at Santa Fe Canyon Preserve June 9. Likely the same bid was reported to August 26.
SIERRA County: --the two SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHERS found by Cleary at Elephant Butte continued to September 3. They have been seen out from South Highlands.
SOCORRO County: --Up to four CAROLINA WRENS are again present along the usual stretch of the Seasonal Road, between the 90 degree turns, at Bosque del Apache.
Date: 9/5/18 8:57 am From: David Vander Pluym <scre...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Sabine's Gull on 4 Sep
Yesterday afternoon I scanned Lake Havasu from Pittsburgh Point. Of note was an adult SABINE's GULL. Though regular on Lake Havasu in September I've only had a couple adults prior. Good birding.
Date: 9/4/18 8:57 am From: Linda Lyberg <llyberg...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Question
Hello all- I am new here and have a question. for at least 5 years, throughout the summer I have had 30-40 lovebirds feeding everyday at my feeders and using water sources I have provided.I have spotted many baby ones as well, and was able to observe the parents feeding them.It was quite a sight to see.
I even have a masked lovebird that comes around as well and on occasion, I have spotted a blue parakeet.
Most recently, the lovebird population has dwindled considerably- I see perhaps 8-10 at any given time.
My question- do lovebirds migrate? And if they do, where do they go?
They come back every year to my yard, which is why I am curious. Thank you, Linda Lyberg
Date: 9/3/18 2:14 pm From: tad lamb <tadlamb...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Scruffy Gull at Lake Cochise
Hello birders,
I spent the morning birding Lake Cochise. Highlights included Semi-palmated Plover, Red-necked Phalarope, Willets lots of stilts and avocets and a Peregrine Falcon terrorizing the many peeps. There was also a large gull in really rough shape picking through the grass on the south shore. II have a pic of it in my eBird report if anyone wants to take a shot at it.
Date: 9/3/18 10:32 am From: Tim Helentjaris <tnhelentjaris...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] California Gulch - Nope, Plan B
After reading Melody’s post the other day, thought I would head down to California Gulch and ponder some flycatchers. The long rain in the night worried me a bit, but I thought I would give it a try this morning. Didn’t even make it to Arivaca, the road was a mess. Not that the washes were still running, it was that there were large berms washed up in the road that were very hard to drive up and over. After about five of these with several BP vehicles in front of me waiting for a chance to get through. Gave up and turned around. Driving over the might Santa Cruz, good to see water in it, rushing along from all the rain last night.
So, where to now? Pena Blanca Lake, nah, not on Mem Day weekend? Also thought most of the off-road spots might be kind of dicey? So, back out to the highway and over to Montosa Canyon. Quiet start until the sun came over the ridge and began to dry things out, including the birds perching up, many of them singing as well. Mostly the usual suspects but a couple of mixed migrant flocks woke up and began to feed, WARBLERS including NASHVILLE, WILSON’S, BLACK-THROATED RAY, along with some VIREO’S, WARBLING and PLUMBEOUS, not to mention the resident BELL’S. A lot of TANAGERS hanging around as well, both WESTERN and SUMMER. Saw a YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO carrying food and heard its mate soft-knocking to it from a nearby tree, but never could get on the nest or young that are sure to be there. BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER still calling near the culvert but couldn’t pick up the Five-striped Sparrow this morning, not that they aren’t still around?
Tim Helentjaris
Tucson, AZ
“Now, now my good man, this is no time to be making enemies.”
― Voltaire (on his deathbed in response to a priest asking him that he renounce Satan.)
Date: 9/3/18 6:59 am From: Bob Nieman <carlsbob...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SENM TROPICAL KINGBIRDS in Carlsbad
I happened across a pair of calling TROPICAL KINGBIRDS in the park along the river downstream of the railroad bridge (locals would say “at the Rocket Slide”). I saw and heard at least two birds but there could have been a third. They are also flying across the river to Riverview Park (they are loud enough to hear all the way over there).
The pair I found earlier at Rattlesnake Springs have been absent over a month. No telling how long they have been here-it isn’t a spot I visit regularly.
Date: 9/2/18 4:38 pm From: Mark Krenitsky <mkrenitsky...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP - 2 September 2018
A dozen birdwatchers from three states enjoyed a fine morning birding the Sierra Vista EOP. We identified 80 species, including ten species of shorebirds and five herons.
The monsoon rains have turned the uneven turf/mud of the EOP into puddles, and the shorebirds have taken advantage. There were good numbers of peeps, and assorted other sandpipers:
Date: 9/2/18 4:13 pm From: Elaine Halbedel <inannaqoh...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SW NM: A Silver City Common Black Hawk
Today (9/2) I was attending a picnic event at the Gomez Peak Trailhead Group area at Little Walnut Picnic Ground, which is located about 4 miles north of the center of Silver City, NM, just after the rains stopped at mid-morning. I heard the 'angry' sounding continuous call of a COMMON BLACK HAWK and left the picnic shelter to find it circling overhead rather low to the ground, only just above the pine tops. It seemed to be annoyed at a kettle of Turkey Vultures that was massing nearby. Because it was so low in elevation, I was easily able to see without binoculars the features that marked it as a full adult: distinct white band in the tail, dark underwings, yellow feet and beak, very dark body. While this isn't the first time that I have seen this species in the home city area, they don't appear to be common this close to civilization and far from the banks of the Gila River.
Date: 9/2/18 11:45 am From: Sharon Goldwasser <azfiddle...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ- east Tucson
I rode around the south side of the “Loop” bike path (Pantano Wash/ Julian Wash) this morning. There was a Peregrine on the microwave tower at 22nd east of Prudence, at Lakeside Park I had two Spotted Sandpipers and all the regular stuff, and I checked the washes between Irvington and Valencia (a few migrants, including one Macgillivray’s that almost appeared to have a complete eye ring).
The most interesting bird of the morning was an immature Gray Hawk that soared out of the south side Sam Lena KERP basin around 10 am. There were a couple more Spotted Sandpipers.
Sharon Goldwasser
Tucson, AZ
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 9/1/18 6:13 pm From: Sharon Goldwasser <azfiddle...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Willcox Twin Lakes golf course/Lake Cochise
I stopped by to look for shorebirds Friday evening again Saturday around noon. I’m sure there are a lot of birds moving in and out- tons of sandpipers. I could not pick out any Semi-palmate Sandpipers from the many I looked at but did not have a scope unfortunately. I had one Willet, and one Semi-palmated Plover. Many more Westerns than Leasts. I saw at least one Dowitcher but couldn’t narrow it down to species. I didn’t estimate any numbers- and didn’t have time to be as thorough as I wanted overall because I was really focusing on the small sandpipers.
There was a lot of commotion when a Peregrine flew by!
I wish I’d had the scope and another hour. It’s s great opportunity to study shorebirds there right now.
I also biked from Willcox to the turn off to Chiricahua N.Monument. Not much action besides Western Kingbirds, Cassin’s Sparrows, a Botteri’s Sparrow, SwaInson’s Hawks, Blue Grosbeaks and a few other things. But it’s such gorgeous country!
Date: 9/1/18 5:14 pm From: Steve Hosmer <sjhosmer...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Aztec Sludge Ponds - Sanderling - No
This morning I looked for the Snowy Plover and Sanderling that Brian Johnson posted in eBird yesterday at the Aztec Sludge Ponds (Yuma County). I had no problem finding the very cooperative Snowy Plover, but could not find the Sanderling after intensive scanning with my scope from the window of my truck, and after looking through over 300 photos I took of every sandpiper in the sludge pond.
Date: 9/1/18 5:04 pm From: Steve Hosmer <sjhosmer...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] WAZ: Paloma Ranch RED KNOT - yes
This morning I looked for the Red Knot that Brian Johnson found yesterday at the Paloma Ranch (Maricopa County). It was still present on mudflats along the westernmost pond between 6:50 AM and at least 7:43 AM. I went back to the pond on the way home in the early afternoon, but could not relocate it. Thank you Brian for posting the sighting of this bird on the listserv and in eBird! I will be posting my sighting of the Red Knot and photographs in eBird tonight.
Date: 9/1/18 2:57 pm From: Olga Harbour <oharbour...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE AZ Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve
Hello Birders,
My husband and I spent several sticky hours this morning at Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve. The foliage is so thick and green that many birds were more easily heard than seen. I must say we got killer looks at a YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO on the Railroad Trail. It was a close competition between LAZULI BUNTING and LESSER GOLDFINCH for sheer numbers seen.
Here's what we saw or heard this morning: TURKEY VULTURE GREY HAWK AMERICAN KESTREL WHITE-WINGED DOVE YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO INCA DOVE VIOLET-CROWNED, BROAD-BILLED, and BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD GILA and LADDER-BACKED WOODPECKERS WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE VERMILION and DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER BELL'S VIREO COMMON RAVEN BRIDLED TITMOUSE BUSHTIT WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH BEWICK'S WREN PHAINOPEPLA YELLOW WARBLER SUMMER TANAGER ABERT'S TOWHEE SONG SPARROW NORTHERN CARDINAL BLACK-HEADED and BLUE GROSBEAK LAZULI BUNTING LESSER GOLDFINCH
Thanks to everyone who continues to post their sightings to the listserv. I so enjoy reading them, and they help me decide where to plan the next outing, whether it's here in Arizona or in New Mexico. It's always a pleasure to meet you out in the field and put a face to the name I already know!
Date: 9/1/18 1:38 am From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 31 August 2018
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Audubon Society's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast
Arizona was made on August 31, 2018; the next update will be made on
September 7. Phone your reports to 520-629-0510 X 3, or email to
rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org.
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information
on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding
areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*)
preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full
documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details
are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted
at http://www.azfo.org/gallery/1main/whatIsABC.html.
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS
In Huachuca Canyon, a *SINALOA WREN was reported again about 100 yards past
the upper parking area on 8/29 (Pete Siminski). The upper parking area is
1.7-miles from the mouth of the canyon.
In Hunter Canyon (https://goo.gl/CR4YXm), #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLERS continued
this week through 8/31 (m.ob.) in the upper canyon about 0.7 miles up the
trail from the end of Hunter Canyon Road just as the trail enters the grove
of trees.
A #SHORT-TAILED HAWK was photographed over Miller Canyon on 8/27 (Brian
Gibbons); remarkably, it was apparently delivering food to juvenile
goshawks! A family group of five #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLERS was photographed
above Split Rock near the junction with a sign for Miller Canyon Trail 106.
Split Rock is about a mile from the parking area.
#LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued at Ash Canyon B&B this week (m.ob.).
An #ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRD was reported at the San Pedro House on 8/25
(Bradlee Sulentic).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS
A *FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCK was seen again at the Green Valley WWTP on 8/30
(m.ob.), the first report since early August. Visitors MUST check in before
birding. Protocol for visiting: The facility is open from 8am-2pm (some
sources say beginning at 7am); use the call box at the gate, sign in and
out at the office on the west side of the complex, and stay away from
buildings and construction equipment. If gate is open, proceed to office to
sign in. Access depends on being able to get a worker to answer the call
button; they aren't always in the office, and sometimes a wait is
necessary. When done, sign out at the office. The bird has been frequenting
the southeast pond, which is somewhat visible from outside the fence.
Failure to abide by these regulations will result in a closure of the
facility to birders. Map: https://goo.gl/FA2TVJ In Montosa Canyon (annotated map: http://goo.gl/8L8tv) a #BLACK-CAPPED
GNATCATCHER continued this week (m.ob.) near the culvert, upstream of the
concrete stream crossing. A Five-striped Sparrow continued as well,
possibly the only one adjacent to a paved road in the country.
In Madera Canyon (map: http://goo.gl/dXBYP), #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS
continued along Proctor Rd this week (m.ob.).
A #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER continued in Box Canyon on 8/29 (Cathy Beck)
about 6.7 miles east of Madera Canyon Rd. Five-striped Sparrows continued
in nearly the same spot this week (m.ob.).
In Josephine Canyon a #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER was reported on 8/29 (Sue
Carnahan).
In Florida Canyon (annotated map: http://goo.gl/AAzD6), a #RUFOUS-CAPPED
WARBLER continued this week (m.ob.) in the West Fork above the dam.
Directions: About 400 yards from parking lot is a metal gate, and just past
the gate the canyon forks. The main trail follows the East Fork, but most
sightings have been in the West Fork to the right. About 125 yards up the
rough trail in the West Fork is a large water tank and a low dam. The oak
grove is about 1/3 mile past the dam. Note: The trail for the West Fork can
be difficult to find, and is steep and rough in places. If you see the sign
with distances to Florida Saddle, Madera Canyon, etc you've missed the
turn. It is not necessary, recommended or permissible to enter the research
station to see these birds.
TUBAC area (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/yDqi0)
A pair of *ROSE-THROATED BECARDS continued along the De Anza Trail at
Tumacacori this week (m.ob.); from the trailhead just north of the mission
and opposite the post office, head east to the kiosk. There is a short spur
to the river just east of here, and they have been seen in this area and
just to the north.
A pair of *ROSE-THROATED BECARDS continued about 1/4 mile north of the
Tubac bridge this week (m.ob.). A #PAINTED BUNTING continued this week
(m.ob.).
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY
A *GLOSSY IBIS was photographed on 8/26 (Dave Stejskal, Doug Gochfeld) at
Lake Cochise by the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox. A #SHORT-BILLED
DOWITCHER and three #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS continued on 8/30 (Eric Hough).
NOGALES area
A *NUTTING'S FLYCATCHER was reported in California Gulch on 8/31 (Melody
Kehl) at the south end of California Gulch at the confluence with Warsaw
Canyon. Documentation for this megararity is solicited and can be submitted
at http://www.azfo.org/gallery/1main/whatIsABC.html At Pena Blanca Lake (annotated map: http://goo.gl/zBbzl), a # LOUISIANA
WATERTHRUSH was photographed on 8/31 (Ron Friesz).
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/XfXfX)
Several #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued this week (Rick Taylor) in a yard
in Whitetail Canyon.
A #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRD continued this week (Dawn Zappone) in a yard near
Horseshoe Canyon.
PATAGONIA
At Patagonia Lake (annotated map: http://goo.gl/GgNvs), #BLACK-CAPPED
GNATCATCHERS continued this week (m.ob.) at the east end along the Birding
Trail.
DOUGLAS area
A #GREEN KINGFISHER continued from San Bernardino NWR on 8/30 (Richard
Webster). The kingfisher has been in the Twin Ponds area (near the
cemetery) south of where the main refuge entrance road crosses Black Draw,
the main N-S drainage line. San Bernardino NWR annotated map:
https://goo.gl/uX96Pw
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security
procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching"
link on this page for important information regarding access:
http://webcms.pima.gov/government/wastewaterreclamation/
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON B&B: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Wednesday, when open noon to dusk.
Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at
http://www.huachuca.army.mil/pages/des/accesscontrol.html. The Visitor
Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The fort is an
active military installation and will suspend your driving privileges on
Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a cell phone
while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry requirements
(subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a background
check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in the vehicle
at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and insurance as
well. Foreign nationals must be accompanied by an approved military escort;
contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the Sierra Vista Visitor's
Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE: apparently some states
driver's licenses do not meet federal requirements for base entry (KY, ME,
MT, PA, SC, MN, MO, and WA); see https://www.dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs or
http://huachuca-www.army.mil/pages/des/visitoraccess.html for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked
birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from
perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open 7AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not linger,
you will be locked inside).
GREEN VALLEY WRF: Protocol for visiting: use the call box at the gate, sign
in at the office on the west side of the complex before birding, and stay
away from buildings and construction equipment. If gate is open, proceed to
office to sign in. Sign out when finished. Map: https://goo.gl/FA2TVJ
ROGER ROAD WRF, CORONA DE TUCSON WRF, and NOGALES STP: Closed.
Another delightful evening perusing the gulch and surrounding area to see what we could see. Birding going in was great with the sparrows and flycatchers showing well.
We had no trouble finding Five-striped Sparrows this evening. Botteri's and Cassin's were both very cooperative on the way across Ruby Road. No BCnightjars were seen or heard this evening. We did hear a couple Poorwills with one visual.
Just a heads up for anyone visiting the area of the confluence of Warsaw and California Gulch. .. we most certainly found the Nutting's Flycatcher again this evening on the ridge to the east of the actual river crossing at the confluence. What was strange is that I first heard the Thick-billed Kingbird that has been in the area most of the summer. . . it was actually interacting with the kingbird. You can imagine the surprise when I looked in the scope and saw the flycatcher and not the kingbird. It was bright yellow belly, whitish throat, large bill. Unfortunately, could not see the tail webbing to confirm the id. However, it did call a couple times which confirmed the id in my mind. When we lost it, it went over the hill to the east. It was really tempting to try to crawl up that hill for a confirmation. Anyway. . . like I said, just a heads up. Melody
Date: 8/31/18 11:24 am From: Tommy DeBardeleben <debardelebentommy...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZ: Tufa Stone Tank/San Carlos Reservation
Hi Everyone,
Yesterday on August 30th, 2018, I birded the San Carlos Reservation, specifically at locations north of the US 70, accessed from Highway 170 into the main town of San Carlos, adjacent to Coolidge Dam Road that goes south to the more well known San Carlos Lake. This is a great birding area, and it's become an area I realize I need to visit more.
Awhile ago, I saw by maps that in the northwest direction of town is this large tank labeled Tufa Stone Tank. It looked interesting from Google Maps, and I decided to check it out. I checked it out, and I was beyond impressed. It has a dam, and it's big and harbors a lot of habitat, and birds! There was lots of habitat diversity around this big tank: a line of willow trees, variable water levels in the tank, surrounding desert, stands of mesquite, surrounding desert, grassy areas and areas with tall weeds. In the two hours I spent there, I had 72 species of birds. The best were two NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH at the west side of the tank in the willows. To get to the west side, I did have to walk through some wet tall grass and weeds around the north side of the tank, but it was worth it. Migrants were everywhere, and there wasn't a time I wasn't looking at something. Because I had a lot of ground to cover and locations to visit, I didn't spend as much time at the tank as I wished I could've. Since this is on the Reservation, a permit is needed (see end of report). This place was awesome, and hopefully it can be birded more. As long as it has water the potential is endless for birding. For anyone heading out to bird San Carlos Lake, this could be an easy stop. Road 903, the access road to Tufa, was in mostly decent shape, despite one rutted out part of the road, which most vehicles can handle. From the turnoff of Highway 70, it's probably about a ten minute drive Here is my checklist from this promising location, and Tufa Stone Tank is now a hotspot on eBird:
I left Tufa Stone Tank earlier than I wanted to give Talkalai Lake and the San Carlos River some decent attention before the heat would set in. Talkalai Lake is northeast of town and is accessed on Road 1110 from Road 1100. Talkalai is a medium sized lake in both Gila and Graham Counties. It is surrounded by desert, tall reeds, and riparian habitat. This is probably the one reliable spot in Gila County where one can get LEAST BITTERN. During my time, I had three calling around the lake. This lake has potential for interesting diving ducks, loons, gulls, and terns, as well as passerines in the desert and riparian.
Following Talkalai, I went just south of the dam to bird the San Carlos River for awhile. It is here too that Gila and Graham Counties are on opposite sides of the river. Right after parking and birding, I had my third NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH of the day, calling from the river.
I returned to Road 1100, which goes for miles. I decided to check out a few more smaller tanks that had water with them along 1100's first few miles. Both tanks had plenty of water and the only waterbird was a Northern Pintail, but the tanks can change at any given second. On another note, following Indian Road 1100 further north for up to 25 miles gives one an increase and big change in elevation as the road goes on and up into coniferous forest. Looking at maps, there are many more tanks up there (Sawmill Tank being one of them), which look to have nice size to them. With the many amazing birds that are found by Flagstaff birders up in Flag in random tanks, who knows, maybe things will be found in these other tanks on the San Carlos Reservation. 1100 is a bumpy road in decent shape in the first few miles, but 25 miles later, I'd probably want to go with a much bigger vehicle. If I were to start my way at Tufa Stone and work my way north to the tanks via Road 1100 in higher elevation, I'd imagine the birds seen for the day would be an awesome variety.
As far as getting a recreation permit for San Carlos, here is a quote on the subject from Doug Jenness in an article that he wrote: "The San Carlos Apache Nation welcomes visitors, but a recreational use permit must be purchased ($10 per day) to camp, picnic, hike, or drive onto back roads off the U. S. highways. Permits can be obtained at the San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife Center, on US 70 1.4 mi east of the turnoff to Indian Route 3; the opening hours are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Saturdays, but the Center is closed on Sundays. Early birds can purchase permits at two 24/7 stores on the east side of Globe: Circle K 1.25 mi. west of the intersection of US 70 and AZ 79, and Good to Go 2.3 mi west of the same intersection".
Date: 8/31/18 9:01 am From: Richard Webster <webster.re...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Green Kingfisher at San Bernardino NWR
Hi Folks,
Yesterday, 30 August/Thursday, there was a Green Kingfisher catching fish at Twin Ponds at San Bernardino NWR. These are the ponds on the west side of Black Draw (the main N-S drainage line) just south of where the main refuge road crosses Black Draw (just south of the cemetery, which is marked on the refuge trail signs). It (and others) have been around in general, but they are highly mobile. A Northern Waterthrush was in lower Black Draw just above the concrete "dam/barrier"). A medium diversity of migrants in very low numbers.
SBNWR is 15 miles east of Douglas on Geronimo Trail (15th Street) and is open to walk-in traffic all daylight hours. Slaughter Ranch is 14 miles east and is open 10-3 Wed-Sun.
August 30, 2018
This afternoon I did a check of Lake Cochise/Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox (Cochise Co.), with hundreds of shorebirds present and not enough time to sift through them thoroughly. Shorebirds included at least 3 SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS, a juvenile hendersoni SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER with 4 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS, 3 WILLETS, a LONG-BILLED CURLEW, 12 RED-NECKED and 1,150+ WILSON’S PHALAROPES; 650+ WESTERN, 200+ LEAST SANDPIPERS, one STILT, 10+ BAIRD’S SANDPIPERS, and 150+ unidentified peeps, 305+ AMERICAN AVOCETS, 70+ BLACK-NECKED STILTS, 12 LESSER and 2 GREATER YELLOWLEGS. Ducks included at least 14 BLUE-WINGED TEAL, 4 NORTHERN SHOVELERS, 2 female NORTHERN PINTAILS, and 160+ MALLARDS/MEXICAN DUCKS (didn’t have time to sift through pure/eclipse/intergrade birds).
At the pond by the golf course I heard a TROPICAL KINGBIRD having an altercation with a Western. Two other birders said they saw the continuing AMERICAN WIGEON there.
Date: 8/30/18 12:47 pm From: Brian Nicholas <weehawker2...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ Ajo Sewage Ponds Snowy Plovers
I found what looks like 2 Snowy Plovers at the Ajo Sewage ponds today. They were still there at 12:00 on the near pond (middle to back on the right side of basin)I have no experience with this species but some ID quality pics can be found on my eBird list at eBird Checklist – Ajo Sewage Ponds, Pima County, Arizona, US – Thu Aug 30, 2018 – 16 species
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eBird Checklist – Ajo Sewage Ponds, Pima County, Arizona, US – Thu Aug 30, 2018 – 16 species
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Date: 8/30/18 12:07 pm From: cjbabbitt cjbabbitt <cjbabbitt...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Needle Rock and Box Bar
For the second year in a row (two days apart) I had a Black-and-white Warbler in the willows at Needle Rock on the Verde River. It was a very birdy morning with good numbers and a pretty good variety of migrants coming through as well as good numbers and variety of continuing summer residents. Complete list of birds from Needle Rock and Box Bar will be posted on ebird tomorrow.
Don’t forget that dove hunting season starts Saturday. Be careful out there.
Date: 8/30/18 11:45 am From: Eric Hough <thebirdwhisperer22...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Stewart CG Mexican Chickadee; Calliope Hummingbirds
The past few days (August 27-30, 2018) my dad and I were camping in Cave Creek Canyon on the east side of the Chiricahua Mountains (Cochise Co.), with highlights including a MEXICAN CHICKADEE on the morning of 8/28 with a mixed flock of titmice and warblers at Stewart Campground. This is the lowest I’ve ever detected this species in the canyon, with the next lowest sightings in years past being up South Fork Canyon and on the north-facing slope at the Old Snowshed Trailhead next to the “Hidden Terrace/Cazier’s” turn off (both of these were in summer). I ran into Rick Taylor at the Portal Store this morning and he said the lowest in the canyon he had ever seen them was Sunny Flat Campground.
I saw several female/immature type CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRDS at most locations with feeders on 8/29, including two at the Southwestern Research Station (SWRS) and single birds at the George Walker House in Paradise, and at the Jasper and Rodrigues yards in Portal.
Other highlights included a MEXICAN WHIP-POOR-WILL giving just a few whip calls around 5:00am on 8/28 at Stewart CG, at least two WHISKERED SCREECH-OWLS last night (8/29) and NORTHERN PYGMY-OWL briefly calling earlier in the afternoon, a mass flock of 110+ WHITE-THROATED SWIFTS flying high over South Fork on 8/28, a JUNIPER TITMOUSE at the Paradise Cemetery on 8/29, a female MACGILLIVRAY’S WARBLER bathing at the Jasper yard on 8/29, and a few CRISSAL THRASHERS calling at the Rodrigues yard near sunset on 8/29. Migrants in the canyon were few, but included a HAMMOND’S FLYCATCHER at Stewart CG on 8/28 and at least one WILSON’S WARBLER there each day, small numbers of RUFOUS and BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRDS at most feeders, a WESTERN TANAGER at the Portal Store on 8/30, and a few heard only LAZULI BUNTINGS around Portal. BROAD-BILLED HUMMINGBIRDS were present throughout Cave Creek Canyon and Portal, and also at Paradise. INCA DOVES are still around Portal in small numbers.
Willow Tank on 8/28 was sadly bone dry, but I did still hear a singing BENDIRE’S THRASHER and saw a covey of SCALED QUAIL. The small pond at the Chiricahua Desert Museum near Rodeo, NM (Hidalgo Co.) provided a nice alternative for looking at dragonflies and damselflies, with at least nine species present.
On the trip we also saw a coati, white-tailed and mule deer, skunks, and recent bear scat.
FYI The new grocery store and grill along the NM portion of Portal Rd. is now open and carries a decent supply of food, ice, and other supplies, and also has restrooms.
Date: 8/30/18 8:27 am From: Marcia Lincoln <boahiss...> Subject: RE: [AZNMbirds] Miller Canyon observations 27-28 August 2018
I was up Hunter Canyon 8/29 looking for the Rufous-capped Warblers! Dang, we could just have easily gone over to that other trail...this is becoming a nemesis bird. Do you think the group you saw is the same group that is frequenting the spot in Hunter Canyon? Or is there more than one group? As the bird flys, it is not that far from where you saw them. Now I don't know which spot is best to try again.
Marcia
-----Original Message----- From: <aznmbirds-request...> [mailto:<aznmbirds-request...>] On Behalf Of Brian Gibbons Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2018 7:17 PM To: <aznmbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Miller Canyon observations 27-28 August 2018
Hi Birders
Declan Troy and I had some great birds these days in Miller Canyon in the Huachucas.
At 11:40 on 27 August we were looking for the Northern Goshawk fledglings just outside of the upper gate of the Beatty's. They were screaming and begging as usual. Just as we got into the drainage a white bellied raptor flew by with a large prey item in its talons. It flew directly to a begging wing-fluttering goshawk and dropped off the prey item and immediately left downstream. My thoughts were that it was an adult light morph Short-tailed Hawk. We confirmed this a few hours later around 3 pm when the bird flew through the treetops downstream again. Presumably after dropping off a prey item to one of the juvenile goshawks. I know this is bizarre! Declan and I both got photos of the bird soaring up after the second sighting.
Much farther up canyon we had a family group of at least 5 Rufous-capped Warblers well above split rock - about 150m short of the trail junction with a sign that says Miller Canyon trail 106. We got many photos of these guys too. They were nosy, calling, singing and begging.
We tried again to photo the goshawks on the 28th but didn't see or hear them in a couple hours midday. We did see the continuing Violet-crowned Hummer at the CAS at the Beatty's. It was gathering nesting material.
Good birding Brian Gibbons Tucson Sent from my iPhone
Date: 8/29/18 7:17 pm From: Brian Gibbons <thehornedguan...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Miller Canyon observations 27-28 August 2018
Hi Birders
Declan Troy and I had some great birds these days in Miller Canyon in the Huachucas.
At 11:40 on 27 August we were looking for the Northern Goshawk fledglings just outside of the upper gate of the Beatty’s. They were screaming and begging as usual. Just as we got into the drainage a white bellied raptor flew by with a large prey item in its talons. It flew directly to a begging wing-fluttering goshawk and dropped off the prey item and immediately left downstream. My thoughts were that it was an adult light morph Short-tailed Hawk. We confirmed this a few hours later around 3 pm when the bird flew through the treetops downstream again. Presumably after dropping off a prey item to one of the juvenile goshawks. I know this is bizarre! Declan and I both got photos of the bird soaring up after the second sighting.
Much farther up canyon we had a family group of at least 5 Rufous-capped Warblers well above split rock - about 150m short of the trail junction with a sign that says Miller Canyon trail 106. We got many photos of these guys too. They were nosy, calling, singing and begging.
We tried again to photo the goshawks on the 28th but didn’t see or hear them in a couple hours midday. We did see the continuing Violet-crowned Hummer at the CAS at the Beatty’s. It was gathering nesting material.
Good birding
Brian Gibbons Tucson
Sent from my iPhone
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 8/29/18 4:59 pm From: Robert Behrstock <rbehrstock...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Huachuca Canyon, Fort Huachuca
Dear birdsters,
I spent a pleasant morning in Huachuca Canyon with clients today. There was a dramatic increase in migrants, mostly Hermit and Nashville warblers with a sprinkling of Wilson's, Orange-crowneds, and Townsend's, as well as a few Warbling Vireos. We heard one trogon, then had great looks at a roadside male as we were driving out of the canyon and nearing the large, paved, open, dry low water crossing (not the crossing by the 1.7 mile parking area). The trogon was loosely associating (?) with a noisy group of Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers.
Best to all, Bob Behrstock
Bob Behrstock Naturewide Images Hereford, AZHome Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 8/29/18 3:24 pm From: Larry <oldbirdbum...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ - BUENOS AIRES NWR
Birders:
On August 28, 2018, I again birded the Aguirre Lake Trail and environs on the Buenos Aires NWR just to see how migration was coming along. On the drive there, three Crested Caracara were near milepost 36 along Hwy 286.
54 species were observed on the refuge. There is no water in Grebe Pond, but still plenty of water in the channel west of Grebe Pond. Highlights were SOLITARY SANDPIPER 1, LESSER YELLOWLEGS 1, a YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO in the very same mesquite tree as last week. I wonder if this bird is on one of those marginal territories outside of cottonwood-willow riparian that the cuckoo surveyors have been talking about.
Blue Grosbeak males were perched high at the tops of mesquite tree all along the trail singing nearly constantly. I stopped counting at 30+ singing males. MacGillivray's Warblers and Wilson's Warblers readily came into the clear when I made a little pishing sound. The numerical highlight of the day was around 1,200 Cliff Swallows massing in a low point in Aguirre Lake. They would come in waves of 30-50 birds to the deeper south end of the channel and drop down to contact the water. They were not skimming the water, but making audible plops and small splashes as their undersides met the surface. Perhaps a swallow splash bath? 16 Black-necked Stilts fed in the shallows by the brown stalks that were being used by 23 Yellow-headed Blackbirds.
This week on the trail I only saw one immature toad, which proved to be a Great Plains Toad.
Both Sora and Virginia Rail were at the Triangle Pond/Marsh. Over 200 Yellow-headed Blackbirds were jammed into the small clump of rushes there. I counted only groups flying in.
Lastly, on the way back on Hwy 286 at milepost 16 (still on the refuge) a CHIHUAHUAN RAVEN was on a power pole with a Common Raven. I think this is as far west as I have seen the species. And at refuge road #230 along Hwy 286, in mile 23, a GRAY HAWK was perched on a power pole, too. Maybe, like the cuckoo, this is another example of a reestablishing species that has become numerous enough to now be pushed into what I have heard some Arizona birders refer to as marginal habitat, as in not choice gallery-riparian; but still plenty functional for their needs I imagine.
Date: 8/29/18 10:46 am From: Tim Helentjaris <tnhelentjaris...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Florida Canyon - Santa Rita Mts
It gladdened my heart a bit to hear that the RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLERS were refound this week in Florida Canyon after my errant earlier prediction that this species might have winked out at this location, ala French Joe Canyon. Went down myself to see if I could find them. Pretty quiet in the canyon at dawn, except for the NORTHERN CARDINAL families noisily flitting about. Did hear a CRISSAL’S THRASHER calling up on the hillside, I’ve noticed the last couple of weeks that this species has gotten a lot more evident in the mid-elevation foothills. Got onto the RcWa just above the dam around 7AM as the sun just began to come over the ridge and begin to light up the western hillside and down into the drainage. The bird was foraging low in the willows and other lush growth in the canyon bottom, easily detected as it was singing all along the way. A short while later, was joined by Cathy Beck who was looking for the bird and we continued up canyon in the direction I had last seen it headed. We refound it at the big S-turn as it emerged from below and actually foraged high in an oak, again singing all the time, but giving us great views. About this time, the canyon really livened up and we began to pickup a mixed foraging flock, including NASHVILLE and MACGILLIVRAY’S WARBLERS as well as a few WARBLING VIREOS traveling together. Many of the summer residents are still in evidence, VARIED BUNTINGS, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, and even a NORTHERN BEARDLESS TYRANNULET were all still singing. So, a nice mix of them along with some migrant passerines moving through as well, including a CORDILLERAN-PACIFIC SLOPE FLYCATCHER, singing but even that didn’t help me identify it.
Tim Helentjaris
Tucson, AZ
“Religion is a culture of faith; science is a culture of doubt.”
- Richard Feynman
Date: 8/28/18 7:57 pm From: Jerry Friedman <jerry_friedman...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] eBird taxonomy update: Section on MEXICAN DUCK of special interest to AZ-NM eBirders
Thank you very much!
The extract you gave says that these two ducks can't be assigned to species by range in counties bordering on Mexico. I live in Rio Arriba County, N. M., which borders on Colorado. Nevertheless I see that my pre-split records of Mallard have been changed to Mallard/Mexican Duck. So does the guidance below apply here too?
Mexican seems to be quite rare up here, though I've seen one hybrid. For future sightings, I'm planning to call them all Mallard except in the unlikely event that I see Mexican characteristics. Is this the right way to handle it?
Is there a better place to ask these questions?
Jerry FriedmanEspañola, N. M.
On Tuesday, August 28, 2018, 11:25:33 AM MDT, Mark Stevenson <drbrdr...> wrote:
NOTE: Mallard and Mexican Duck will not be possible to accurately assign to species based on range within the border counties of the USA (Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas) since both species are common there. If you had previously reported these to a specific subspecies group prior to this split, then that will be reflected in your lists. If not, please review your records and make changes if you recall which form you observed (or if you have notes like 4 Mexican, 12 Northern, and 2 intergrades). We realize this will not be possible in many cases, so many records will be retained as the Mallard/Mexican Duck option.
Date: 8/28/18 12:49 pm From: J P Hirth <jphmdh8...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Florida Cyn, AZ
Hi Birders: I saw and heard one Rufous-capped Warbler this morning in Lower Florida Canyon. It was at the first stream crossing past the dam. I met another birder who had seen two RCWA earlier, about 150 yards closer to the dam.
Good birding,
John Hirth
Green Valley
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Don't forget to register for the next AZFO Annual Meeting!
The early bird special ends Friday August 31st! New information is now
available on the current list of speakers, field trips and workshops! Hope
to see you there!
Date: 8/28/18 11:03 am From: Mark Stevenson <drbrdr...> Subject: Re: [AZNMbirds] eBird taxonomy update: Section on MEXICAN DUCK of special interest to AZ-NM eBirders
Why did eBird split Mexican Duck when A.O.S. (formerly AOU) didn't? Apparently because eBird follows Clements taxonomy.
The monotypic group Mallard (Mexican) Anas platyrhynchos diazi is elevated to species rank as Mexican Duck Anas diazi. Genetic divergence of Mexican Duck from Mallard is at comparable levels to other similar taxa that are recognized as species, such as American Black Duck Anas rubripes and Mottled Duck Anas fulvigula (McCracken et al. 2001, Lavretsky et al. 2014a, 2014b, 2015); and hybridization between Mallard and Mexican Duck has not been demonstrated to occur at higher levels than between Mallard and other species in the Mallard complex. Revise the range description for Mexican Duck from “S Texas, New Mexico and Arizona south to central Mexico” to “southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and western Texas (Trans-Pecos region) south to central Mexico.”
References:
Lavretsky, P., B.E. Hernández-Baños, and J.L. Peters. 2014a. Rapid radiation and hybridization contribute to weak differentiation and hinder phylogenetic inferences in the New World Mallard complex (Anas spp.). Auk 131: 524-538.
Lavretsky, P., K.G. McCracken, and J.L. Peters. 2014b. Phylogenetics of a recent radiation in the mallards and allies (Aves: Anas): inferences from a genomic transect and the multispecies coalescent. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 70: 402-411.
Lavretsky, P., J.M. Dacosta, B.E. Hernández-Baños, A. Engilis, Jr., M.D. Sorenson, and J.L. Peters. 2015. Speciation genomics and a role for the Z chromosome in the early stages of divergence between Mexican ducks and mallards. Molecular Ecology 24: 5364–5378.
McCracken, K.G., W.P. Johnson, and F.H. Sheldon. 2001. Molecular population genetics, phylogeography, and conservation biology of the mottled duck (Anas fulvigula). Conservation Genetics 2: 87-102.
Mark Stevenson
Tucson, AZ
--------------------------------------------
On Tue, 8/28/18, Mark Stevenson <drbrdr...> wrote:
Subject: [AZNMbirds] eBird taxonomy update: Section on MEXICAN DUCK of special interest to AZ-NM eBirders
To: <aznmbirds...>
Date: Tuesday, August 28, 2018, 10:25 AM
NOTE: Mallard and Mexican Duck will not
be possible to accurately assign to species based on range
within the border counties of the USA (Arizona, New Mexico,
and Texas) since both species are common there. If you had
previously reported these to a specific subspecies group
prior to this split, then that will be reflected in your
lists. If not, please review your records and make changes
if you recall which form you observed (or if you have notes
like 4 Mexican, 12 Northern, and 2 intergrades). We realize
this will not be possible in many cases, so many records
will be retained as the Mallard/Mexican Duck option.
Home Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page.
To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
-----Inline Attachment Follows-----
Date: 8/28/18 10:25 am From: Mark Stevenson <drbrdr...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] eBird taxonomy update: Section on MEXICAN DUCK of special interest to AZ-NM eBirders
NOTE: Mallard and Mexican Duck will not be possible to accurately assign to species based on range within the border counties of the USA (Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas) since both species are common there. If you had previously reported these to a specific subspecies group prior to this split, then that will be reflected in your lists. If not, please review your records and make changes if you recall which form you observed (or if you have notes like 4 Mexican, 12 Northern, and 2 intergrades). We realize this will not be possible in many cases, so many records will be retained as the Mallard/Mexican Duck option.
New Mexico Rare Bird Report August 27, 2018 Compiler: Matt Baumann Phone: 505-264-1052 E-mail address: <mbaumann22...>
This is the New Mexico Rare Bird Report for August 27, 2018 sponsored by the New Mexico Ornithological Society. When phone numbers are given for private property, please call before going to ask for permission. In ranch country, do not stray off the roads. Places mentioned in the report, a checklist of N.M. birds, and more locations on uncommon and specialty species can be found in the N.M. Bird Finding Guide. You can purchase the NM Bird Finding Guide at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=83. A more complete, updated version of the checklist can be found at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=1666 for prior records of species in New Mexico, search the online archive of the NMOS Field Notes at http://nhnm.unm.edu/partners/nmos/index.html.
NMOS is on Facebook, search for New Mexico Ornithological Society. All individuals are encouraged to submit their observations to NMOS. This includes not only records of Review List species and species potentially new to the state, but also records of uncommon species, species of conservation concern, records documenting breeding, and early, late, or out-of-season/range birds. Details and photos should be sent to Sandy Williams, 1819 Meadowview Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, or (preferred) to <sunbittern...> Details will be used for NMOS Field Notes, North American Birds, and the New Mexico Bird Records Committee. NOTE: Additional reports of unseasonal birds or county rarities can be seen on the eBird New Mexico Rare Bird Alert: http://ebird.org/ebird/alert/summary?sid=SN35650. You do not need an eBird account to view this.
Birds Mentioned and Counties (NMBRC review species are in CAPITAL letters): Tricolored Heron (Chaves) REDDISH EGRET (Eddy) Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Chaves, Curry) RED-SHOULDERED HAWK (Eddy) SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Catron) Carolina Wren (Sandoval, Socorro) Phainopepla (Sandoval) RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROW (Hidalgo) Hooded Warbler (Bernalillo, Santa Fe)
BERNALILLO County: --Morris reported a young male/female HOODED WARBLER in the bosque south of Montano August 17. It was seen near the river about half way from Montano to the trail going out to the pumping station.
CATRON County: --Wootten and Zummach photographed a SHORT-TAILED HAWK along the Bursum Rd east of Mogollon August 24. Location: Lat. 33.37, Long. 108.6861 About 1/2 mile before Sandy Point Turnout after Silver Creek Divide turnout. The location is at the base of a talus slope in a burn.
CHAVES County: --Landi reported a juvenile TRICOLORED HERON at Bitter Lake NWR August 10. It was seen on Unit 5 and continued to August 19 near the oxbow.
--a juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was reported at Bitter Lake NWR August 15 by Bennett and Collins at Unit 7. It continued to August 17.
CURRY County: --Parmeter reported four YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS at the CLOVIS WWTP August 17. Three continued to August 19.
EDDY County: --Nieman reported a white phase REDDISH EGRET at Lake Avalon August 25.
--Buckley, Brozek, and Nieman reported a juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON at Rattlesnake Springs August 26. It was seen at the spring at the west end of the park.
--Nieman reported the continuing RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at Rattlesnake Springs August 26.
HIDALGO County: --Jaremko-Wright and Swackhamer reported two RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROWS in Guadalupe Canyon July 15. Eight were present for Egelhoff and Hetrick August 25.
SANDOVAL County: --the Thursday birders reported a CAROLINA WREN at Las Huertas Picnic Area August 16.
--a PHAINOPEPLA was reported in the Corrales bosque near Romero Rd August 16 by Lowry, Kuehn, and Ukens. It continued to August 26.
SANTA FE County: --Hardy reported a HOODED WARBLER at Santa Fe Canyon Preserve June 9. Likely the same bid was reported to August 26.
SOCORRO County: --Up to four CAROLINA WRENS are again present along the usual stretch of the Seasonal Road, between the 90 degree turns, at Bosque del Apache.
Before people start chasing, most have come down on the side of it being a Black-crowned Night-Heron.
David Vander Pluym Lake Havasu City
-----Original Message----- From: scre <scre...> To: aznmbirds <aznmbirds...> Sent: Sun, Aug 26, 2018 12:23 pm Subject: FWD: Yuma Yellow-crowned Night-Heron
For those not on Facebook or ebird an immature Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was found this morning in Yuma County. Details in ebird can be found here https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S48086627 Just forwarding a potential 5th state record. David Vander Pluym Lake Havasu
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
For those not on Facebook or ebird an immature Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was found this morning in Yuma County. Details in ebird can be found here https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S48086627Just forwarding a potential 5th state record.David Vander PluymLake Havasu Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
Date: 8/26/18 5:59 pm From: Steve Valasek <botheringbirds...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] CEAZ - Pectoral Sandpiper in Chandler
As reported by Brian Johnson, and many others, the Pectoral Sandpiper continues in a flooded field at Tumbleweed Rec Center. The park is located In the Southwest corner of Germann and McQueen, just off of the 202. The field in question is just South of the main building and East of the large children's playground. The bird is accompanied by 75 Ibis Great Tailed Grackles, Starlings and Killdeer.
Date: 8/26/18 4:03 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--26 Aug 2018
Hi, birders,
A stellar day for the 14 people who walked the Sierra Vista EOP dikes this morning, including visitors from CA, MA, PA, and UT. The group total was 82 species, quite a jump over the past few weeks. A good variety of shorebirds and some new arrivals accounted for the great diversity today.
Most of the shorebirds were in temporary pools and puddles from recent monsoon rains. But the highlight was hearing Long-billed Curlew calling overhead in the late morning, as we walked the Moson Road dikes. First one and then two birds were spotted flying in, circling, and finally landing at the main impoundments behind us. Another good find were two Semipalmated Plovers among the Killdeer feeding on the main sludge pile. Also present were: Spotted Sandpiper, Solitary Sandpiper, Baird's Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Western Sandpiper, and Wilson's Phalarope. Nine species of shorebird in the somewhat limited habitat at the EOP counts as a 4-star morning.
Adding spice to the shorebird story was the arrival of a young Peregrine Falcon which made fast passes at both the groups of shorebirds and the big flocks of Yellow-headed Blackbirds. Later in the morning an adult Peregrine Falcon flew over the Moson Road dikes.
Marsh birds included a vocal, but hidden, Virginia Rail; up to three Sora, with one walking right out in the open along the cattails; and five White-faced Ibis at a rain pool. The pre-dawn crew noted both Com. Poorwill and Lesser Nighthawk; later in the morning the feathers of a Lesser Nighthawk were found on a dike.
Some new arrivals for the month were N. Shoveler, Rufous Hummingbird, Loggerhead Shrike, Violet-green Swallow, Marsh Wren, MacGillivray's Warbler, and Wilson's Warbler.
Saturday 8/25 I spotted a Zone-tailed Hawk over Michael Perry Park, just south of Golf Links along the Pantano. John Higgins reported one here a few weeks ago.
Migrants are trickling through the desert on a daily basis- in the last week I’ve seen the following species between 22nd and Valencia (mainly in the washes between Irvington and Valencia): quite a few Lazuli Buntings, warblers (Yellow, Wilson’s, Orange-crowned, Black-throated Gray, Nashville & Macgillivray’s), Western Tanagers, Lark Sparrow. Two Lincoln’s Sparrows and a Vesper Sparrow Saturday were the first for the fall.
3-4 Turkey Vultures yesterday seemed to be heading south as well.
I’ve been by Lakeside Park a few times and didn’t see any migrants- however the Snow Goose is still present, as it has been since the winter.
For those not on Facebook or ebird an immature Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was found this morning in Yuma County. Details in ebird can be found here https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S48086627Just forwarding a potential 5th state record.David Vander PluymLake Havasu
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone nullHome Page: https://list.arizona.edu/sympa/info/aznmbirds To unsubscribe use the Unsubscribe button on that page. To view archive: click "Archive" on that page.
Date: 8/26/18 12:02 pm From: David Stejskal <dstejskal...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Willcox GLOSSY IBIS now
Hi birders,
I’m out at Lake Cochise right now and Doug Gochfeld, Micah Riegner & I are looking at what we believe to be an adult GLOSSY IBIS transitioning into basic plumage. Lots if photos and video, but not sure if the quality if those yet. It’s with a flock of about 20 White-faces Ibis.
Date: 8/25/18 11:50 am From: Bob Nieman <carlsbob...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SE NM Reddish Egret at Avalon Lake
This morning I found a white-morph REDDISH EGRET on the north east bay at Avalon Lake north of Carlsbad NM. It was running around and spreading it’s wings in typical fashion. I left when it flew-I couldn’t tell if it was a short distance or if it moved out of the bay.
It was readily accessible from a gravel road just west of the railroad tracks where there are mudflats. Driving along the north shore is difficult in places, especially after a rain. It is the first time I have seen a white morph in New Mexico.
Date: 8/24/18 11:08 pm From: Andrew Core <tucsonrba...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] RBA Tucson, AZ - 24 August 2018
Hello Birders,
This update of Tucson Audubon Society's Rare Bird Alert for Southeast Arizona was made on August 24, 2018; the next update will be made on August 31. Phone your reports to 520-629-0510 X 3, or email to rarebirdalert AT tucsonaudubon.org.
SEVERAL IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS follow the sightings, including information on temporary closures and rules for access to other important birding areas. Abbreviation "m.ob." = multiple observers. An asterisk (*) preceding a species name in the list indicates that it merits careful, full documentation. A pound sign (#) indicates that brief corroborating details are warranted. Documentation and photos of review species may be submitted at http://www.azfo.org/gallery/1main/whatIsABC.html.
For more information about Tucson Audubon field trips, lectures and educational opportunities, please see www.tucsonaudubon.org.
SPECIES MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT INCLUDE: #Semipalmated Sandpiper #Short-billed Dowitcher #Lucifer Hummingbird #Green Kingfisher *ROSE-THROATED BECARD *RED-EYED VIREO #Black-capped Gnatcatcher #Rufous-capped Warbler #Clay-colored Sparrow #Painted Bunting #Dickcissel
TUBAC area (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/yDqi0) A pair of *ROSE-THROATED BECARDS continued along the De Anza Trail at Tumacacori this week (m.ob.); from the trailhead just north of the mission and opposite the post office, head east to the kiosk. There is a short spur to the river just east of here, and they have been seen in this area and just to the north. A *RED-EYED VIREO was photographed here on 8/21 (Bill Lisowsky), and a #GREEN KINGFISHER and a #PAINTED BUNTING continued on 8/23 (m.ob.). A #PAINTED BUNTING continued this week (m.ob.) north of the Tubac bridge; another was photographed at Clark Crossing Rd on 8/18 (Cathy Beck).
GREEN VALLEY & the SANTA RITAS In Montosa Canyon (annotated map: http://goo.gl/8L8tv) a #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER continued this week (m.ob.) near the culvert, upstream of the concrete stream crossing. A Five-striped Sparrow continued as well, possibly the only one adjacent to a paved road in the country. In Florida Canyon (annotated map: http://goo.gl/AAzD6), a *RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER was reported on 8/22 (Eugene Hunn) in the West Fork above the dam, the first report since April. Directions: About 400 yards from parking lot is a metal gate, and just past the gate the canyon forks. The main trail follows the East Fork, but most sightings have been in the West Fork to the right. About 125 yards up the rough trail in the West Fork is a large water tank and a low dam. The oak grove is about 1/3 mile past the dam. Note: The trail for the West Fork can be difficult to find, and is steep and rough in places. If you see the sign with distances to Florida Saddle, Madera Canyon, etc you've missed the turn. It is not necessary, recommended or permissible to enter the research station to see these birds.
WILLCOX & the SULPHUR SPRINGS VALLEY A #SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER was reported and a #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER continued on 8/20 (Stuart Healy) at Lake Cochise by the Twin Lakes Golf Course in Willcox. Three #SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS were reported on 8/22 (Tom Johnson).
SIERRA VISTA & the HUACHUCAS In Hunter Canyon (https://goo.gl/CR4YXm), #RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLERS continued this week through 8/21 (m.ob.) in the upper canyon about 0.7 miles up the trail from the end of Hunter Canyon Road just as the trail enters the grove of trees. In Miller Canyon, a #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRD continued on 8/23 (Diana Doyle). #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued at Ash Canyon B&B this week (m.ob.).
PORTAL & the CHIRICAHUAS (annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/XfXfX) Several #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRDS continued this week (Rick Taylor) in a yard in Whitetail Canyon. A #LUCIFER HUMMINGBIRD continued on 8/22 (Dawn Zappone) in a yard near Horseshoe Canyon.
PATAGONIA A #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHERS and a #DICKCISSEL were photographed on 8/24 (Keith Kamper) at the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve; annotated map: http://goo.gl/maps/0pXsd A # PAINTED BUNTING was reported near Pennsylvania Ave. between 4th Ave. on 8/23 (Robin Baxter).
BENSON area A #BLACK-CAPPED GNATCATCHER continued on the Guindani Loop Trail at Kartchner Caverns State Park this week (Matt Griffiths).
BUENOS AIRES NWR A #CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was reported at Aguirre Lake in Buenos Aires NWR on 8/21 (Larry Norris).
TUCSON area A # PAINTED BUNTING was reported on 8/21 (Jerry Bird) in Sabino Canyon.
The Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department security procedures are subject to change any time. Please see the "bird watching" link on this page for important information regarding access: http://webcms.pima.gov/government/wastewaterreclamation/
RAMSEY CANYON - Ramsey Canyon Preserve is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
ASH CANYON B&B: open dawn to dusk EXCEPT Wednesday, when open noon to dusk. Parking is limited; please carpool whenever possible. No need to call ahead.
FORT HUACHUCA - access requirements are posted on its official webpage at http://www.huachuca.army.mil/pages/des/accesscontrol.html. The Visitor Control Center is located at the Van Deman Gate on Hwy 90. The fort is an active military installation and will suspend your driving privileges on Post for 30 days on your first offense for talking or using a cell phone while driving. You MUST use a hands free device. Current entry requirements (subject to change without notice): US citizens must pass a background check and should be prepared to show photo ID for everyone in the vehicle at the entrance, and possibly your vehicle registration and insurance as well. Foreign nationals must be accompanied by an approved military escort; contact the base (520.533.7111), or possibly the Sierra Vista Visitor's Bureau (520.417.6960) well in advance. ACCESS NOTE: apparently some states driver's licenses do not meet federal requirements for base entry (KY, ME, MT, PA, SC, MN, MO, and WA); see https://www.dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs or http://huachuca-www.army.mil/pages/des/visitoraccess.html for details.
SANTA CRUZ FLATS: Management at the Evergreen Turf Sod Farm has asked birders not to drive into the property (i.e., the 2750 road); birding from perimeter roads (i.e., Tweedy or Pretzer) is still fine.
AVRA VALLEY WRF: Gates open 7AM and close PROMPTLY at 2PM (do not linger, you will be locked inside).
GREEN VALLEY WRF: When open, use the call box at the gate, sign in and out at the office, and stay away from buildings and construction equipment.
ROGER ROAD WRF, CORONA DE TUCSON WRF, and NOGALES STP: Closed.
Date: 8/24/18 1:16 pm From: Felipe Guerrero <fillieg...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] Grasshopper Sparrow breeding in Lonesome Valley, Yavapai
I confirmed breeding for Grasshopper Sparrow in Lonesome Valley this morning - about 15 miles east-southeast of the Williamson Valley population. Two adults seen - one singing and one carrying food. This location is reached by traveling east on Rd 4 S past the Chino Valley Solar Plant and over the hill to this approximately this point: 34.716651, -112.416799
At 5:30 pm Thur. 8/23 I saw an adult male Painted Bunting on Pennsylvania Ave. between 4th Ave. and the TAS Paton Center in Patagonia. It was on the E side near the large cottonwood close to the road past the last house on the way from 4th Ave. heading towards the TAS Paton Center. Always a treat to see in this area, even if it was wet from all the rain and a bit bedraggled looking.
Date: 8/22/18 6:04 pm From: Lauren Harter <lbharter...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] AZFO: Several new photos
Field Ornithologists,
Jeff Ritz contributed photos of Lesser Black-backed Gull (from 2016)
and Short-tailed Hawk, Dave Stejskal contributed photos of Eastern
Kingbird, and under “Other”, Doug Jenness contributed photos of a
partially white Gambel’s Quail. Thanks Jeff, Dave, and Doug!
Thanks to all who use the online form below to submit photos. It
makes our job a lot easier and ensures your photos will be posted more
quickly.
The warblers are still dripping, however, the species have changed. More Townsend’s and Hermit today. Only a handful of Virginia with a sprinkling of the rest. 11 species within an hour this morning from 7:30 am.
Melodys Birding. Com.
Date: 8/22/18 10:33 am From: David Quesenberry <beqrqry...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ De Anza @ Tumacacori Green Kingfisher
I saw a Green Kingfisher perched on a low branch on the west bank of the river near the Rose-throated Becard spot. I did not see any of the other recent rarities in the area.
Date: 8/22/18 5:50 am From: David Stejskal <dstejskal...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Willcox SANDERLING and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS
Hi birders,
I made a quick stop at Willcox on my way to Portal late yesterday afternoon and re-found the SANDERLING reported yesterday working the long sandy spit between the east shore & west shore. I also photographed two SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS very close to the pump outflow when I first drove up to ‘Lake Cochise’. There were at least this many Semis here - maybe three. There were many more WESTERN SANDPIPERS at this site than there were on my last visit, so picking through those might produce even more Semis if you’re patient.
Hi birders, During a Tucson Audubon Yellow-billed Cuckoo survey today in Guindani Canyon (in Kartchner Caverns SP) Susan Atkisson, Kasey Fry, and I had a Violet- crowned, associating with a few Broad-billed hummers. It was up in the canyon where there are a large number of ash trees, almost to where the road turns to trail.
It was a very birdy morning! No sign of the Lucifers today, but migrants coming thru in numbers, 3 species of oriole massing up, Blue Grosbeaks up the wazzoo, Black-capped Gnatcatchers present, and we saw what I believe was a juvie Goshawk. Thanks to the mockingbirds for pointing out that one to us!
New Mexico Rare Bird Report August 21, 2018 Compiler: Matt Baumann Phone: 505-264-1052 E-mail address: <mbaumann22...>
This is the New Mexico Rare Bird Report for August 21, 2018 sponsored by the New Mexico Ornithological Society. When phone numbers are given for private property, please call before going to ask for permission. In ranch country, do not stray off the roads. Places mentioned in the report, a checklist of N.M. birds, and more locations on uncommon and specialty species can be found in the N.M. Bird Finding Guide. You can purchase the NM Bird Finding Guide at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=83. A more complete, updated version of the checklist can be found at http://www.nmbirds.org/?page_id=1666 for prior records of species in New Mexico, search the online archive of the NMOS Field Notes at http://nhnm.unm.edu/partners/nmos/index.html.
NMOS is on Facebook, search for New Mexico Ornithological Society. All individuals are encouraged to submit their observations to NMOS. This includes not only records of Review List species and species potentially new to the state, but also records of uncommon species, species of conservation concern, records documenting breeding, and early, late, or out-of-season/range birds. Details and photos should be sent to Sandy Williams, 1819 Meadowview Drive NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, or (preferred) to <sunbittern...> Details will be used for NMOS Field Notes, North American Birds, and the New Mexico Bird Records Committee. NOTE: Additional reports of unseasonal birds or county rarities can be seen on the eBird New Mexico Rare Bird Alert: http://ebird.org/ebird/alert/summary?sid=SN35650. You do not need an eBird account to view this.
Birds Mentioned and Counties (NMBRC review species are in CAPITAL letters): Common Ground-Dove (Hidalgo) SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHER (Sierra) LITTLE BLUE HERON (Sierra) Tricolored Heron (Chaves) Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Chaves, Curry) RED-SHOULDERED HAWK (Eddy) Carolina Wren (Sandoval, Socorro) Phainopepla (Sandoval) RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROW (Hidalgo) Hooded Warbler (Bernalillo, Santa Fe)
BERNALILLO County: --Morris reported a young male/female HOODED WARBLER in the bosque south of Montano August 17. It was seen near the river about half way from Montano to the trail going out to the pumping station.
CHAVES County: --Landi reported a juvenile TRICOLORED HERON at Bitter Lake NWR August 10. It was seen on Unit 5 and continued to August 19 near the oxbow.
--a juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON was reported at Bitter Lake NWR August 15 by Bennett and Collins at Unit 7. It continued to August 17.
CURRY County: --Parmeter reported four YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERONS at the CLOVIS WWTP August 17. Three continued to August 19.
--Whitecotton reported an immature YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON at the Hillcrest Park in Clovis July 12. It was seen in the large pond at the east end of the park but has been reported from the adjacent zoo as well.
EDDY County: --Nieman reported the continuing RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at Rattlesnake Springs August 3.
HIDALGO County: --Jaremko-Wright and Swackhamer reported two RUFOUS-WINGED SPARROWS in Guadalupe Canyon July 15. Four were present for Pederson and Baumann August 4 along with two COMMON GROUND-DOVES.
SANDOVAL County: --the Thursday birders reported a CAROLINA WREN at Las Huertas Picnic Area August 16.
--a PHAINOPEPLA was reported in the Corrales bosque near Romero Rd August 16 by Lowry, Kuehn, and Ukens.
SANTA FE County: --Hardy reported a HOODED WARBLER at Santa Fe Canyon Preserve June 9. Likely the same bid was reported to August 19 by Foy.
SIERRA County: --Cleary reported two SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHERS at Elephant Butte Lake in the large cove above the North Highlands Rock August 20 and again August 21. This area is accessed from the South Highlands self-pay station off S. Rock Canyon Rd.
--Cleary reported a LITTLE BLUE HERON at Elephant Butte Lake SP August 5. It was seen looking north from the South Monticello Overlook and continued to August 14.
SOCORRO County: --Up to four CAROLINA WRENS are again present along the usual stretch of the Seasonal Road, between the 90 degree turns, at Bosque del Apache.
Date: 8/21/18 6:02 pm From: Larry <oldbirdbum...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: BUENOS AIRES NWR
Hello Birders:
Today, 21 Aug, I spent three hours birding in the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. There is no water in Aguirre Lake or in Grebe Pond (and no sign for Grebe Pond either). But the channel on the west side of Grebe Pond has water.
42 species total. The migrants are coming through; best on the north dike, follow the Aguirre Lake Trail signs.
A yellow-billed cuckoo was calling and perching in the open, two MacGillivray's Warbler came out to some pishing sounds. Best bird was an early (?) CLAY-COLORED SPARROW. At least the earliest that I have encountered in SEAZ. Both CASSIN'S and BOTTERI'S sparrows sang late into the morning, maybe due to the cloud cover? I disturbed a BARN OWL twice as it was trying to roost in the lines of mesquite. While on the very wide trail around Grebe Pond watch were you are stepping. I came across a fast moving horde of nickel-sized Red-spotted Toads. Lots and lots of blackbirds, hundreds of Cliff Swallows. One SORA at the marsh.
I left at 1100 am, and had rain showers all the way in to Tucson. Should be good tomorrow.
It was a fairly quiet morning along Gardner Canyon Road in the Santa Ritas. Just past the AZ trail Trailhead where the creek runs over the main road, here there is a small side channel pool where a NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was skulking. The cautious bird flew upstream, but might come back to this nice deep secretive pool.
I also heard a BELTED KINGFISHER which is on time for return. But I always love hearing my first of the season as a reminder of a cool bird I have been missing.
Date: 8/21/18 2:02 pm From: Bill Lisowsky <ykswosil...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] De Anza @ Tumacacori - RT Becard, RE Vireo, Am. Redstart
Between rain showers, I went back to the nest site to check on progress on the Rose-throated Becards this morning, and luckily for me, I ran into a young CA birder named Noah Arthur who was hoping to see his life bird today. We didn't see or hear any becards, so I suggested we walk north towards the location of the second nest from last summer. Just past that spot, probably about 0.2 miles from the current nest site, we started seeing lots of warblers and other small passerines, furiously picking bugs from the grasses, tallest shrubs and small trees. Among them was a silent Red-eyed Vireo, steadily moving south, usually about 20 feet off the ground. When we got back near the becard viewing spot, Noah spotted the previously reported male American Redstart actively feeding among another flock of birds. A few minutes later, I saw a male Becard fly over the river from the east side and land in a snag right over the viewing spot, where we were able to get good looks and watch it feed on green caterpillars. At one point, we had two other birds calling nearby.
Lucky for us, last night's storms and this morning's showers seemed to have "grounded" both the bugs and the birds. It was noticeably more active today than recent days.
Lists and pictures will be posted to E-bird later today. Good birding,
Date: 8/21/18 9:14 am From: Richard Webster <webster.re...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Chiricahua Mtns important road closure this week
Hi Folks:
Rose Ann and I headed to the Crest Trail this morning, only to find the road from the Portal side closed at East Turkey Creek, just above the junction with the road to Paradise. According to the sign on the gate dated the 20th, the road is closed for construction/repair until the 24th, or until rescinded. Thus, Rustler Park etc. should be accessible from the Willcox side still. We heard a Mexican Chickadee at the locked gate at East Turkey Creek, so that is an option from the Portal side for that species (otherwise very quiet there).
