Date: 12/12/18 5:38 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: White-throated Sparrow as art.
I photographed this White-throated Sparrow in the fading afternoon light today. I thought the light in the photo had some magical qualities that needed to be expressed as made from oil paints.
So here is White-throated Sparrow in fading light on sundial.
The image was shot through a lilac and a winterberry holly.
Exposure data: 1/40 sec, hand-held at f4, ISO 800.
This one might just be suitable for framing!
Enjoy!
Bob Snyder Photographer
-- Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have. Theodore Roosevelt
Date: 12/12/18 9:31 am From: Wentzel, Douglas <djw105...> Subject: Reminder: Robyn Bailey speaking tonight at Millbrook Marsh
Greetings all,
Tonight is our final meeting of 2018 and I hope to see you at Millbrook Marsh Nature Center at 7 pm. Accessible parking is available near the classroom building, and of course the short walk from the parking lot is enjoyable.
Robyn Bailey will give us an overview of the nesting habits of local birds during her “Nest and Eggs” talk. Robyn works at Cornell Lab of Ornithology and is the project leader for NestWatch.
Date: 12/12/18 8:44 am From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Dinner with speaker tonight and Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Hello All,
I have a late confirmation that Robyn and her husband will be having dinner with me at Happy Valley Brewing Company around 5:30 this evening before the meeting.
If you would like join us, please let me know.
Joe
About the bird abundance:
The Cooper's hawk mention seems to be a good one given the points raised in Nick B's talk at the last meeting. State College is busy with hunting Coop's.
Saw a flock of goldfinches this morning foraging high up on sweet gum seed pods while a nearby feeder stood empty except a pair of ginormous squirrels.
eBird has just started to release 10 year abundance trends in their data for select species, for example here's a blue jay map
Blue Jay - Trends map: Non-breeding - eBird Status and Trends<https://ebird.org/science/status-and-trends/blujay/trend-map-non-breeding> ebird.org
This map depicts the ranked amount of change during the non-breeding season in estimated relative abundance across the years 2007-2016. Circles are colored by ranked increasing or decreasing trends and circle sizes are scaled by the maximum estimated relative abundance across 2007-2016. Light gray circles represent locations with trends not significantly different from zero.
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...>
Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2018 11:25 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Mary & have said numerous times the last few weeks that there must be an accipiter around due to the very low activity. Ducks on the creek have also been much lower than last year this time from my data; especially black ducks. I do not count feeder birds in any systematic way so cannot but clearly sparrows and finches are lower. Typically have filled the shelled sunflower feeder daily but it is lasting 4-5 days now due to low numbers of goldfinches. Have joined feederwatch to start quantitative data.
larry
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Randy Poulsen <rpoulsen47...>
Sent: Monday, December 10, 2018 2:48:23 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Just to be contrarian, my feederwatch count for two days last week was exactly one individual each of only four species. Lowest ever in the five years we have been in the area (Park Forest).
On a positive note, we had a very noisy Pileated visit this p.m.
Randy Poulsen
On Mon, Dec 10, 2018 at 1:51 PM Ron Rovansek <rrovansek...><mailto:<rrovansek...>> wrote:
My impression is that I have more than the usual numbers of birds at my feeders. Blue Jays seem very abundant, but lots of other birds also are in good supply.
Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year?
Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers.
Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather?
Date: 12/12/18 8:40 am From: Ann Wilken <abwilken...> Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Julian in Bald Eagle ValleyOur feeder watching is close to normal regarding the usual winter birds (goldfinches, WB nuthatches, juncos, doves, downy and red belly WP, chickadee, titmouse,)But we've had the addition of some others:
Just about everyday:Hairy WoodpeckerCarolina wren
Now and then:RB NuthatchSapsuckerBrown CreeperPurple FinchPine Siskin
Ann
-----Original Message-----
From: Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...>
To: SCBIRDCL <SCBIRDCL...>
Sent: Wed, Dec 12, 2018 11:26 am
Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
#yiv5405847963 #yiv5405847963 -- P {margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;}#yiv5405847963 Mary & have said numerous times the last few weeks that there must be an accipiter around due to the very low activity. Ducks on the creek have also been much lower than last year this time from my data; especially black ducks. I do not count feeder birds in any systematic way so cannot but clearly sparrows and finches are lower. Typically have filled the shelled sunflower feeder daily but it is lasting 4-5 days now due to low numbers of goldfinches. Have joined feederwatch to start quantitative data.larryFrom: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Randy Poulsen <rpoulsen47...>
Sent: Monday, December 10, 2018 2:48:23 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds? Just to be contrarian, my feederwatch count for two days last week was exactly one individual each of only four species. Lowest ever in the five years we have been in the area (Park Forest).
On a positive note, we had a very noisy Pileated visit this p.m.
Randy Poulsen
On Mon, Dec 10, 2018 at 1:51 PM Ron Rovansek <rrovansek...> wrote:
My impression is that I have more than the usual numbers of birds at my feeders. Blue Jays seem very abundant, but lots of other birds also are in good supply. Ron RovansekStormstown, Halfmoon Twp. From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...>On Behalf Of <bluebird6771...>
Sent: Sunday, December 9, 2018 6:06 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Scarcity of Songbirds? Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year? Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers. Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather? Nick Kerlin
Date: 12/12/18 8:26 am From: Ramsey, Lawrence William <lwr...> Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Mary & have said numerous times the last few weeks that there must be an accipiter around due to the very low activity. Ducks on the creek have also been much lower than last year this time from my data; especially black ducks. I do not count feeder birds in any systematic way so cannot but clearly sparrows and finches are lower. Typically have filled the shelled sunflower feeder daily but it is lasting 4-5 days now due to low numbers of goldfinches. Have joined feederwatch to start quantitative data.
larry
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Randy Poulsen <rpoulsen47...>
Sent: Monday, December 10, 2018 2:48:23 PM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Just to be contrarian, my feederwatch count for two days last week was exactly one individual each of only four species. Lowest ever in the five years we have been in the area (Park Forest).
On a positive note, we had a very noisy Pileated visit this p.m.
Randy Poulsen
On Mon, Dec 10, 2018 at 1:51 PM Ron Rovansek <rrovansek...><mailto:<rrovansek...>> wrote:
My impression is that I have more than the usual numbers of birds at my feeders. Blue Jays seem very abundant, but lots of other birds also are in good supply.
Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year?
Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers.
Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather?
Date: 12/11/18 5:04 pm From: Gregory William Grove <gwg2...> Subject: Stone Mt Hawk Watch summary 2018
2018 season Stone Mt summary
Records since 1995. Stone Mt. is on the Huntingdon/Mifflin border, between McAlevys Fort and Allensville.
Much better numbers than the previous two years, thanks in large part to lots of favorable W or NW wind. Only 3 species were below the most recent 10 year average: Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, N Goshawk.
Record count of Golden Eagles - 218
Second highest ever for Bald Eagles and Broad-winged Hawks
Sharp-shins, Red-tails, Kestrels bounced back (to varying degrees) from very poor 2017 counts
Another low year for Osprey, 11th straight below long term average.
Hours of observation – 426 Avg= 375. Down from >500 past two years, so the good season totals this year were not due to more coverage.
Individual Species - avg here is the long term (23 year) average
Osprey – 67; avg = 85
Bald Eagle –158; avg = 65 Tied for second highest count (high was 166 in 2016).
High day was 11 on Oct 12
Northern Harrier – 54; avg = 64. Like OS, 11th straight year below long term avg.
Sharp-shinned Hawk – 892; Avg = 841. Best since 2014
Best day was 188 on Oct 12 (second highest one-day count ever)
Cooper’s hawk – 99; Avg = 158.
After peaking dramatically 2000-2007, numbers have declined.Staying north?
N Goshawk . – 4. Avg = 9. Eighth straight year below avg.
Red-shouldered Hawk – 70. Avg = 57 Best season count since 2005.
Record high one-day count of 19 on 10/18
Broad–winged Hawk - 3027. Avg= 1438. Second highest season ever.
High counts : 637 (9/20), 571 (9/27), 535 (9/16)
Red-tailed Hawk – 700; avg = 1001.
The previous 3 seasons were the lowest 3 ever (all 522 or less).
Rough-legged Hawk - 1. Avg = 2. .
Golden Eagle - 218 . Avg= 104. By far, highest season ever (previous was 171 in 2015)
Top days: An astonishing 61 on 10/29 , obviously a one day record (previous was 30) ,
25 on 11/3, 20 on 10/30
By month: Sept - 1, Oct - 127; Nov - 75; Dec - 15 .
American Kestrel – 102. Avg= 102. (Previous 3 years were 53, 51, 66)
Merlin – 36. Avg = 32.
Peregrine Falcon – 26. Avg = 21.
Unidentified = 35
Turkey Vulture - 258
Black Vulture – 42
Total raptors excluding vultures = 5489 . Avg = 4027
Greg Grove, Nick Bolgiano, David and Trudy Kyler, Ron Crandall, Jon Kauffman, Betsy Manlove, Jason Beale, Doug Wentzel, Jen Anderson, Josh Potter (and many others from Shavers Creek).
Greg Grove
Editor - Pennsylvania Birds
9524 Stone Creek Ridge Road, Huntingdon, PA. 16652
[ callto:814%20643%203295 | 814 643 3295 ]
<gwg2...>
A few folks have asked me where the Northern Pintail was that I photographed and posted to the facebook PA birders site on Sunday. He is still at the Centre Furnace Duck pond as of now. I just left there.
January 23, 2019 (Wednesday)
Regular Meeting
7:00 p.m. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
Program: Chelsea DeMarco will give a program titled "Seeking the Grey Ghosts: an Update from the Pennsylvania Goshawk Project"
February 27, 2019 (Wednesday)
Regular Meeting
7:00 p.m. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
Program: Wayne Laubscher will give a program titled The Falcons of Clinton and Lycoming Counties
March 27, 2019 (Wednesday)
Regular Meeting
7:00 p.m. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
Program: Sarah Ingram will give a program with a title to be announced about birding and drawing comics
April 24, 2019 (Wednesday)
Regular Meeting
7:00 p.m. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
Program: Brian Shema will give a program with a title to be announced about Chimney Swift towers
Date: 12/10/18 11:48 am From: Randy Poulsen <rpoulsen47...> Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Just to be contrarian, my feederwatch count for two days last week was exactly one individual each of only four species. Lowest ever in the five years we have been in the area (Park Forest).
On a positive note, we had a very noisy Pileated visit this p.m.
Randy Poulsen
On Mon, Dec 10, 2018 at 1:51 PM Ron Rovansek <rrovansek...> wrote:
> My impression is that I have more than the usual numbers of birds at my > feeders. Blue Jays seem very abundant, but lots of other birds also are in > good supply. > > > > Ron Rovansek > > Stormstown, Halfmoon Twp. > > > > > > *From:* State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> *On Behalf > Of *<bluebird6771...> > *Sent:* Sunday, December 9, 2018 6:06 AM > *To:* <SCBIRDCL...> > *Subject:* Scarcity of Songbirds? > > > > Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for > songbirds this time of year? > > > > Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or > two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for > common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the > same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in > lower than expected numbers. > > > > Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of > berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a > good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at > limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with > nesting failures due to too much rainy weather? > > > > Nick Kerlin >
Date: 12/10/18 10:51 am From: Ron Rovansek <rrovansek...> Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
My impression is that I have more than the usual numbers of birds at my feeders. Blue Jays seem very abundant, but lots of other birds also are in good supply.
Ron Rovansek
Stormstown, Halfmoon Twp.
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> On Behalf Of <bluebird6771...>
Sent: Sunday, December 9, 2018 6:06 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year?
Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers.
Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather?
Date: 12/9/18 2:49 pm From: Jon Kauffman <jvk5019...> Subject: Field Trip Summary
Hello all,
A chilly morning for 12 participants for this mornings field trip to Stone Valley, but the cold did not inhibit the bird activity. A total of 27 species were tallied and highlights included vibrant Eastern Bluebirds, a flock of feeding Pine Siskins, large flocks of juncos and White-throated Sparrows and close looks of Hermit Thrushes, Golden-crowned Kinglets, and a resting Porcupine. Also noted while driving to and from locations, some participants had a great looks at a perched Barred Owl and a Red-shouldered Hawk.
Thanks for everyone for joining and bringing owl cookies. Can't wait to see what Susan will bring to the meeting this Wednesday!
All the best, Jon
Watershed Road, Masseyburg, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, US Dec 9, 2018 8:46 AM - 10:38 AM Protocol: Traveling 1.05 mile(s) 15 species
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1 Downy Woodpecker 4 Blue Jay 2 American Crow 6 Black-capped Chickadee 17 Red-breasted Nuthatch 4 White-breasted Nuthatch 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet 5 Eastern Bluebird 9 Hermit Thrush 2 Field Sparrow 1 Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 50 White-throated Sparrow 55 Song Sparrow 5 Northern Cardinal 4
Shaver's Creek Env. Center, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, US Dec 9, 2018 10:50 AM - 11:21 AM Protocol: Stationary Comments: Watching the feeders 13 species
Red-bellied Woodpecker 2 Downy Woodpecker 1 Hairy Woodpecker 1 Northern Flicker 1 Blue Jay 3 Black-capped Chickadee 4 Tufted Titmouse 3 Red-breasted Nuthatch 2 White-breasted Nuthatch 3 Purple Finch 1 Pine Siskin 26 American Goldfinch 4 Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) 7
Shaver's Creek Env. Center, Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, US Dec 9, 2018 11:23 AM - 11:50 AM Protocol: Traveling 0.2 mile(s) Comments: Walked to point pavilion to view Lake Perez. 5 species
Date: 12/9/18 12:16 pm From: Nancy Butkovich <njbutkovich...> Subject: Stare College CBC - Central PSU campus
It was a nippy morning to wander around central campus; fortunately, there was very little wind. I noticed on the list that someone commented about a lack of songbirds. I certainly didn't have many in my area, although I attributed my observations it to a lack of good cover. A lot of bushes have been cleaned out, and there didn't seem to be that much for small birds to eat. Squirrels were doing great, though. I saw lots of them, and not a Red-failed Hawk in sight. Sigh.
On the other hand, one of the chickadees appeared to be leucistic. I've attached a picture of it. It was missing the gray on the if the Anyway, here's my report.
Nan Butkovich
Started 8:35amFinished: 12:05pmParty hrs on foot: 2.5 hr, by car: 0.25, total hours 2.75Party miles on foot: 1.75 mi., by car: 0.75, total miles 2.5
Species observed: 7, individuals observed: 35
Species list:American Crow - 1Black-called Chickadee - 5 (one leucistic)White-breasted Nuthatch - 2European Starling -6Dark-eyed Junco - 8Northern Cardinal - 3American Goldfinch - 10
Date: 12/9/18 10:57 am From: John Carter <000031eca779008e-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
I had a really decent showing of chickadees - 7 and titmice - 5 in the woods yesterday while hunting near my home feeding on tulip tree seeds. I also saw the behavior of a titmouse stuffing food under some leaves as someone previously observed and mentioned. Currently on average we are getting between 2-3 each at the house feeders.
I couldn't tell you if it has been a lower reproductive year or not, but I would be on the side of it still being early and plenty of forest foraging going on.
John Carter
On Sunday, December 9, 2018 bluebird6771 <bluebird6771...> wrote:
Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year?
Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers.
Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather?
Date: 12/9/18 6:33 am From: Deborah Grove <dsg4...> Subject: Re: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Our numbers at feeders and surrounding area seem to be the same. We have Feederwatch data for the 5 years here at this house.
I think if we have an average day next Sunday for our CBCs we will find out more about this.
Deb
From: "Nick Kerlin" <bluebird6771...> To: "SCBIRDCL" <SCBIRDCL...> Sent: Sunday, December 9, 2018 9:06:26 AM Subject: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year?
Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers.
Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather?
Date: 12/9/18 6:06 am From: <bluebird6771...> <bluebird6771...> Subject: Scarcity of Songbirds?
Is it just me, or has anyone else noted a lower number than usual for songbirds this time of year?
Looking at eBird postings for Centre County I see a lot of only "one or two" individuals recorded where I believe the numbers should be higher for common species i.e juncos, chickadees, etc. When afield, I have noticed the same thing - birds few and far between and when found, they have been in lower than expected numbers.
Could all the rainy weather of past months have had an effect? Lots of berries, etc, still remaining on vegetation, as it seems to have been a good fruiting year with all the moisture and birds are not congregating at limited sources. Was it also a lower than normal reproductive year with nesting failures due to too much rainy weather?
Date: 12/8/18 9:42 pm From: william chambers <00001038fb156184-dmarc-request...> Subject: merlin
Hello, everyone it seem's Max the Merlin is back in State College. Hoping he stays for the whole winter. The last two winters he has not showed up till the beginning of January. That's ok with me I love to see him. This is the third winter where I have watched him off and on for a few months. He has disappeared around the last month in Feb to the 1st week in Mar the last two years. If you are going through Science Park near Old Gatesburg in the evening or first thing in the morning keep an eye out for him. He was on the pole by the old Jostens building tonight with a full crop.
Thanks Bill C!
Date: 12/8/18 2:44 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: redpolls at Stone Mt HW
I saw 3 small flocks of finches today at Stone Mt HW. The last one obligingly set down nearby and stay just long enough for me to take this picture. As they flew off, I counted 10. I suspect that the 3 flocks were redpolls, as they flew in the same manner.
Our record golden eagle count continued, though the season is close to an end.
Non-raptor Observations: C. Goose-60, Tundra Swan-79, C. Loon-1, C. Redpoll-10 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Date: 12/8/18 10:11 am From: Julia Plummer <julia...> Subject: Another Evening Grosbeak report
While out birding this morning, I stopped by Penns Cave Airport (as it is a hotspot that I hadn't birded previously). It was a good decision as almost as soon as I'd gotten out of the car I started hearing Evening Grosbeaks calling from across the tarmac. The area they were calling from is not accessible to the public and I was not able to see them. But I did get an audio recording for my checklist.
Date: 12/7/18 5:31 am From: E-mail <wnlaubscher...> Subject: The Falcon flies
On Wednesday morning, the injured Peregrine Falcon rescued in February on River Rd. east of Lock Haven was banded by Dan Brauning & Mario Giazzon of the PGC and released where she was found. The falcon immediately headed northwest toward Rt. 150, no stopping, and flying well. Up, up, and away!
A big thanks goes to Robyn Graboski and the folks at Centre Wildlife Care who worked with the falcon to get her back in good condition!
Wayne Laubscher Lock Haven <wnlaubscher...> "Owl be back"
Date: 12/6/18 10:18 am From: Lee, Jen <jal21...> Subject: Re: Titmouse hoarder
I watched a Red-Bellied Woodpecker last weekend make repeated trips into a still standing corn field and take kernels of corn. It was stashing in tree wholes but also into nooks on a telephone pole behind metal boxes and connectors. Well over 10 minutes of stashing.
Jen Lee
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> On Behalf Of DAVIS, SHAWN
Sent: Thursday, December 6, 2018 11:59 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Titmouse hoarder
We put peanuts in shells out on our deck, and usually it's blue jays who come and make off with them. But this time we saw a titmouse take one, fly off, and come back within thirty seconds. It did this several times, and kept flying off to the same area of our yard. Closer inspection revealed that it was burying them in the leaf litter. As we watched, it stashed peanuts in several locations around our yard, in both leaf litter and crotches in bushes. Anyone ever observe this sort of behavior from songbirds before? I know shrikes impale insects for later, but I've never seen a songbird hoard.
Date: 12/6/18 9:11 am From: Kurt <000000926143b032-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Titmouse hoarder
I hang my hunting clothes outside during deer season and am always finding sunflower seeds tucked in pockets and folds. I was assuming it was the chickadees. Research has shown some of our winter/resident birds grow larger brains during the winter to remember their food caches.
Kurt Engstrom
On Thursday, December 6, 2018 DAVIS, SHAWN <sad12...> wrote:
We put peanuts in shells out on our deck, and usually it's blue jays who come and make off with them. But this time we saw a titmouse take one, fly off, and come back within thirty seconds. It did this several times, and kept flying off to the same area of our yard. Closer inspection revealed that it was burying them in the leaf litter. As we watched, it stashed peanuts in several locations around our yard, in both leaf litter and crotches in bushes. Anyone ever observe this sort of behavior from songbirds before? I know shrikes impale insects for later, but I've never seen a songbird hoard.
Best,
Shawn
We put peanuts in shells out on our deck, and usually it's blue jays who come and make off with them. But this time we saw a titmouse take one, fly off, and come back within thirty seconds. It did this several times, and kept flying off to the same area of our yard. Closer inspection revealed that it was burying them in the leaf litter. As we watched, it stashed peanuts in several locations around our yard, in both leaf litter and crotches in bushes. Anyone ever observe this sort of behavior from songbirds before? I know shrikes impale insects for later, but I've never seen a songbird hoard.
I currently have four evening grosbeaks at my feeders in PA Furnace in Huntingdon County. I have been hoping for them for weeks... and they magically appeared just this morning!
Date: 12/6/18 6:07 am From: Jon Kauffman <jvk5019...> Subject: Upcoming Field Trip Reminder
Hello all,
A reminder of this Sunday's field trip to 2 locations in Stone Valley. The
weather looks free of precipitation and temperatures being a bit chilly,
but perfect for a winter walk.
Hope to see you then,
Jon
*Sunday, December 9, 2018 (9am-11:30am)*
Winter Birds of Stone Valley
Spend a morning exploring two prime locations in the Stone Valley
Experimental Forest for winter birds. Watershed Road and Shaver’s Creek
Environmental Center is well known for the high abundance and diversity of
wintering birds that seek shelter and food during the colder months. We
will first enjoy a leisurely walk along Watershed Rd outside the small town
of Masseyburg in hopes to observe Hermit Thrushes, Golden-crowned Kinglets,
Red-breasted Nuthatches, sparrows and other possible winter finches.
Thereafter, the group will visit and relax at Shaver’s Creek Environmental
Center with options to stay and relax by the feeders, visit the boardwalk,
and/or scan the lake for waterfowl.
Please meet at the Jo Hays Vista parking lot at the top of Tussey Mountain
(Route 26) at 8:30am, the group will then carpool to Watershed Road and
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center. Watershed Road is a well-maintained
gravel road that is flat and has very little incline. The group will walk
out and back with a total of ~2 miles. Feel free to bring a packed lunch to
enjoy at Shaver’s Creek.
Date: 12/5/18 3:17 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Bird Club 12/12: Robyn Bailey on "Nests and Eggs"
Please join us next Wednesday Dec 12 at 7 pm at Millbrook Marsh Nature Center for a presentation on "Nests and Eggs" by Robyn Bailey of Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Robyn Bailey is the project leader for NestWatch. Based at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Robyn researches trends in nesting success using data provided by citizen scientists. Her work has been published in journals, on websites and blogs, and in ornithology textbooks. Robyn is a Certified Wildlife Biologist and earned her M.S. while studying Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes in Michigan.
Observation start time: 08:30:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 7 hours Official Counter Darrell Smith Observers: Craig Kochel
*Visitors:* Craig Kochel
*Weather:* Cool and mostly complete overcast with moderate winds from the W.
*Raptor Observations:* Adult BE's 11:25, 1:54, 2 @ 1:56, 2 @ 2:29. Adult GE 11:56. Imm. GE 12:58 Unknown GE @ 2:15. Local TV's, BV's and Redtails.
*Non-raptor Observations:* Pileated WP, Several Flocks of Crows, 11 Tundra Swans, Carolina Wren, One Blue Heron that seemed to be migrating and Ravens.
Date: 12/4/18 6:28 am From: Bob Fowles <rbf...> Subject: Re: State College Christmas Bird Count for 2018
For the State College Christmas Bird Count on Sunday, Dec 16, we have 3 routes still unassigned. Please let me know if you would like to take one of the routes described below.
Thanks,
Bob Fowles
BRANCH-NIXON-GATESBURG ROADS E. Branch Rd/Pike St from the red light at the intersection with Rt 26 to the end of W. Branch Rd where it intersects Rt 45 (Shingletown Rd), including Woodside Drive. The rectangle defined by: Whitehall Rd from West College to Nixon, South Nixon (from W. Whitehall to end of Nixon including North Nixon and Ernest Ln), Old Gatesburg Rd (from end of S. Nixon to Science Park Rd), Science Park Rd, and W. College Ave. NOTES: (1) E. Branch ends at S. Atherton where you cross 322. Turn right at the Sheetz store, and continue onto W. Branch Rd., (2) None of Rt 45 is included.
BIG HOLLOW The eastern part of Big Hollow Rd north of I-99 (bypass) from Fox Hollow (near deer pens and Army Reserve Center) to Rock Rd, and from the intersection of Rock Rd and Big Hollow to the intersection of Houserville Rd and Trout Rd.
CAMPUS The PSU campus: the entire area that is south of Park Ave, west of University Drive, north of College Ave. and east of N. Atherton.
Date: 12/3/18 3:35 pm From: Roana Fuller <roanafuller1956...> Subject: Re: Deb Rittelmann found Evening Grosbeak near Spring Mills this morning
We had 2 evening grosbeaks yesterday. Only saw them one time
Ro
Sent from my iPhone
> On Dec 3, 2018, at 5:13 PM, Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> wrote:
>
> There's a very active bird feeder near the corner of Lingle Valley Rd and Penns Creek Rd between Spring Mills and Coburn, and across the road from that feeder there's a little brook, where a very pretty evening grosbeak was caught taking a bath by Deb Rittelmann this morning.
>
> https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S50393814 >
> Given how ephemeral most sightings have been, I'm going to assume it won't stick around for the Penns Creek CBC. But that would be nice. It's in my territory.
Date: 12/3/18 2:13 pm From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Deb Rittelmann found Evening Grosbeak near Spring Mills this morning
There's a very active bird feeder near the corner of Lingle Valley Rd and Penns Creek Rd between Spring Mills and Coburn, and across the road from that feeder there's a little brook, where a very pretty evening grosbeak was caught taking a bath by Deb Rittelmann this morning.
Given how ephemeral most sightings have been, I'm going to assume it won't stick around for the Penns Creek CBC. But that would be nice. It's in my territory.
Date: 12/3/18 1:36 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: Fwd: Stone Mt., Pa. (03 Dec 2018) 6 Raptors
---------- Forwarded message --------- From: <reports...> Date: Mon, Dec 3, 2018 at 4:34 PM Subject: Stone Mt., Pa. (03 Dec 2018) 6 Raptors To: <nickbolgiano...>
*Stone Mt., Pa.* Allensville, Pennsylvania, USA
*Daily Raptor Counts: *Dec 03, 2018 *Species* Day's Count Month Total Season Total BV 0 0 38 TV 1 1 258 OS 0 0 67 BE 2 2 152 NH 0 0 53 SS 0 0 892 CH 0 0 99 NG 0 0 4 RS 0 0 70 BW 0 0 3027 RT 1 1 690 RL 0 0 1 GE 2 2 205 AK 0 0 102 ML 0 0 36 PG 0 0 26 UA 0 0 6 UB 0 0 3 UF 0 0 1 UE 0 0 1 UR 0 0 24 *Total:* 6 6 5755
Observation start time: 08:45:00 Observation end time: 15:30:00 Total observation time: 6.75 hours Official Counter Nick Bolgiano Observers:
*Weather:* Wind W 8-10 mph, sky cloudy, temp 38-40F
*Raptor Observations:* BE: 1402 Ad, Imm, 2 BE not counted GE: 1059 Ad, 1114 Sub, a Juv was hunting, later went S at 1429, then N 15 min later (not counted)
Date: 11/30/18 11:07 am From: E-mail <wnlaubscher...> Subject: Fwd: St. Nick the snowy owl has been released
A happy ending, which doesn't always happen. I had the opportunity to band this owl in March at CWC. It flew into the razor wire fence at Huntingdon Prison on Christmas Day 2017. He is now a second year male. A lucky jailbird indeed.
Wayne Laubscher Lock Haven <wnlaubscher...> "Owl be back"
---------- Original Message ---------- From: Robyn Graboski <centrewildlifecare...> To: <CWC-SUPPORTER-L...> Date: November 30, 2018 at 12:09 PM Subject: St. Nick the snowy owl has been released
[Snowy Release by Chet.jpg] Picture by Chet Gottfrield
St. Nick came in last Christmas with injuries from razer wire. He was a challenging case. We tried to release him in the spring, but he was not ready. Every time we put him in the flight enclosure, he would stop eating. Then we needed to keep him through the summer because he missed migration up to the tundra. We released him on 11-29-18 in a remote location where he will be safe...actually hours from where he was found in Huntingdon and hours from here. More pictures soon.
Date: 11/29/18 1:29 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: Fwd: Stone Mt., Pa. (29 Nov 2018) 6 Raptors
---------- Forwarded message --------- From: <reports...> Date: Thu, Nov 29, 2018 at 4:26 PM Subject: Stone Mt., Pa. (29 Nov 2018) 6 Raptors To: <nickbolgiano...>
*Stone Mt., Pa.* Allensville, Pennsylvania, USA
*Daily Raptor Counts: *Nov 29, 2018 *Species* Day's Count Month Total Season Total BV 0 1 38 TV 0 39 257 OS 0 0 67 BE 0 34 150 NH 0 8 53 SS 1 24 892 CH 0 8 99 NG 0 1 4 RS 1 14 70 BW 0 0 3027 RT 3 246 689 RL 0 1 1 GE 1 75 203 AK 0 1 102 ML 0 3 36 PG 0 0 26 UA 0 0 6 UB 0 1 3 UF 0 0 1 UE 0 1 1 UR 0 1 24 *Total:* 6 458 5749
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours Official Counter Nick Bolgiano Observers:
*Weather:* Wind initially WNW 8-12 mph, eventually shifting to N 4-7, sky mostly cloudy, but clearing late, temp 24-29F
Date: 11/29/18 8:01 am From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: future Bird Club dates ?
4 24
3 27
2 27
1 23
Hi Jen and everyone,
I don't have all the speakers set yet, but the dates will be
Jan 23, Feb 27, Mar 27, April 24.
Thanks,
Joe
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Lee, Jen <jal21...>
Sent: Thursday, November 29, 2018 10:47:40 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: future Bird Club dates ?
Do we have the dates for Club gatherings in Jan, Feb available? I need to plan some things out and dont want to conflict if possible !!
Date: 11/29/18 7:48 am From: Lee, Jen <jal21...> Subject: future Bird Club dates ?
Do we have the dates for Club gatherings in Jan, Feb available? I need to plan some things out and don't want to conflict if possible !!
I looked online but don't see them?
Date: 11/25/18 11:02 am From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: Areas that are not yet covered for the PABE (Bald Eagle State Park) CBC
Hello All,
I have two routes (Route B and Route C) that are not covered for the Dec 30, 2018 Christmas Count.
I've attached the circle map showing the routes, and here's a brief description of the routes. If anyone is interested in birding these routes for the PABE circle, please let me know by December 15.
You can contact me at this email address, or my old PSU email (<rhs2...>) or by cell phone (814-753-2629). If you are interested, I can send more details to you.
*Route B:* Back Road to Hecla Park in Mingoville, Snydertown, Sand Mountain Rd to Jacksonville (note Route E covers village of Jacksonville) and Slaughterhouse Road terminating at Rt 26.
*Route C:* The Lamar Fish Hatchery and vicinity
Thank you,
Bob Snyder Compiler PABE circle
-- Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have. Theodore Roosevelt
Date: 11/23/18 2:47 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: Sayers Lake level is being dropped to winter elevation.
Sayers Lake has been lowered about 1 ft recently. The mudflats are starting to return at Bullit Run, and the footpath from the parking area to Bald Eagle Creek is now uncovered.
This afternoon I saw 5 Great Blue Herons at Bullit Run, and saw 1 at Sunken Road at Hunter’s Cut in BESP.
I could not identify “Legs” who had been release by Robyn on Nov 6. But I’m sure he is in good company along Bald Eagle Creek.
Date: 11/22/18 11:41 am From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: Evening Grosbeaks briefly in Howard today
This morning, between roasting a turkey and Macy’s parade, I just caught a brief look at 3 Evening Grosbeaks that were ground feeding under the nyjer feeder. I ran for the camera, but ....... gone when I got to the back porch door.
I’ll let you all know if they come back. The few times (fall or spring) that we’ve had them, their stay was at most a few days: usually a few minutes to a few hours.
Date: 11/21/18 4:34 pm From: Nick Bolgiano <nickbolgiano...> Subject: update of golden eagle cumulative charts for 5 PA hawk watches
Attached are updates to the golden eagle cumulative charts that I previously made for 5 PA hawk watches. This allows you to compare this year to previous years. As the cumulative line curves right, as it has since the previously-made charts, you can get a better idea of where the final tally might end up. Nick Bolgiano
No cranes in the area and I think the report is in the wrong location. The gps spot is a couple of miles on the Huntingdon side but Apex drive and the pools in the farm field are in Centre County.
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours Official Counter Mark Shope Observers:
*Weather:* Strong WNW wind, morning snow squalls down both valleys.
*Raptor Observations:* Local Red-tails
*Non-raptor Observations:* TV, BV, BC Chickadee, Hairy and Pileated Woodpeckers, Goldfinch, Juncos, Carolina Wren, Bluebirds, large flock of Canada Geese, Mallards, Blue Jays, Crows, 2 Great Blue Herons flying down the ridge, and an Unkindness of about 30 Ravens also flying down the ridge.
Date: 11/19/18 6:40 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: American Pipits from 11/17/18
Three American Pipits were found in Bald Eagle State Park, at Hunter's Cut (aka; Sunken Road), on the rocky shore, just below the gravel parking area. Saturday afternoon, 11/17/18. Two adults and one juvenile.
The final photo in this group was not very sharp. It was processed with heavy application of the contrast, clarity and sharpness filters in Lightroom CC, and an oil paint filter applied in Photoshop, giving it an art look.
Enjoy.
Bob Snyder
-- Do the best you can, where you are, with what you have. Theodore Roosevelt
Date: 11/17/18 12:39 pm From: Robert Snyder <birdphotoginpa...> Subject: eBird -- Bald Eagle SP -- Nov 17, 2018
Drove around Bald Eagle State Park looking for Northern Shrike and Snow Buntings: nothing yet. Did get 3 American Pipits that stopped briefly at the Sunken Road parking lot (Hunters Cut) side of lot. Got photos!
Typical lovely overcast central PA day; birding was slow but satisfying! 👌
Bald Eagle SP Nov 17, 2018 12:22 PM Traveling 7.67 miles 185 Minutes All birds reported? Yes Comments: Drove around Bald Wagle State Park, maim area looking for Northern Shrike and Snow Buntings: no luck! Did see 3 American Pipits! Submitted from eBird for iOS, version 1.8.0 Build 1
18 American Black Duck -- From Sunken Road Overlook 6 Hooded Merganser -- Sunken Road Overlook 3 Common Merganser -- From Sunken Road Overlook 3 Pied-billed Grebe -- Sunken Rd Overlook 1 Horned Grebe -- Sunken Rd Overlook 4 Ring-billed Gull 5 Common Loon -- From the Beach: 4, from Sunken Rd Overlook: 1 1 Double-crested Cormorant -- At Marina. 1 Great Blue Heron -- Sunken Rd Overlook 1 Red-tailed Hawk 1 Blue Jay 2 American Crow 1 Black-capped Chickadee 1 Northern Mockingbird -- Along road to the marina. 3 American Pipit -- Along shore at Sunken Road Overlook.
Date: 11/15/18 8:04 am From: Gyekis, Joseph Peter <jpg186...> Subject: Re: Bird into window
Aww. White throated sparrow.
________________________________
From: State College (PA) Bird Club <SCBIRDCL...> on behalf of Ilene White <rimwhite...>
Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2018 10:44:04 AM
To: <SCBIRDCL...>
Subject: Bird into window
Raptor Observations: BE: 1128 Ad, 1323 Ad, 2 BE not counted GE: 843 Ad, 911 Unk, 1321 Ad
Non-raptor Observations: Tundra Swan-70, C. Loon-3, Double-crested Cormorant-65 ======================================================================== Report submitted by Nick Bolgiano (<nickbolgiano...>)
Observation start time: 09:00:00 Observation end time: 15:00:00 Total observation time: 6 hours Official Counter Mark Shope Observers:
*Weather:* Fog blew off after 10:00. Cold, damp NW wind.
*Raptor Observations:* Imm GE 10:45 Said the eagles while gliding down Jacks, "It's a wind from the East that this lacks. So we'll go over to Stone And give those guys a bone And make these guys on Jacks look like hacks."
*Non-raptor Observations:* TVs, BVs, Crows, Ravens, Hairy and Pileated Woodpeckers
