Date: 8/12/26 7:16 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Another Semipalmated Sandpiper
All,
This evening, I saw another Semipalmated Sandpiper at Area K, a different juvenile to the one from a few days ago. There was also the first juv SB Dowitcher of the season there
Regards,
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/12/26 2:38 am From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Figueroa Mountain Purple Martin breeding update
Responding to John Lewis's request for further comments of Figuroa Mountain bird activity this year I can add a bit on my observations. Not all of these are necessarily related to recovery from the fire as per John's request for feedback. Several good winters of rain may have had an impact as well.
1. Lawerence's Goldfinches were very numerous in the burn area along Figueroa Mountain Road between the burned-out campground and Davey Brown trailhead.
2. Lazuli Buntings were in good numbers in the area mentioned above and also in the burned-out area of Cachuma Creek above Cachuma Campground. On April 6 and especially April 9 I had Lazuli Buntings migrating up Lion Canyon and passing over the saddle just below Ranger Peak towards the back country. On the 9th I had a rough estimate of 120 or so pass over in about 30 minutes. The birds were coming in pulses so fully accurate count and ID of every bird not possible but this number a good estimate. I plan to revisit this spot next spring.
3. Several trips down Davey Brown trail did not yield any Cassin's Vireo in areas where they are usually reliable, not surprising with most of the understory burned away. There sure were a lot of Humbolt Lily visible though.
4. I had confirmed breeding of Northern Pygmy Owl a bit lower down on E and W slope of mountain and a few more heard only records within Sedgwick Reserve (restricted access).
5. Olive-sided Flycatcher seemed a bit more common than usual with upwards of 3 pair on the summit and 3 more over at Ranger Peak/East Pinery area.
6. Oaks seemed to blossom a bit early this year and it is these blossoming trees where I tend to find mixed flocks of stop-over passerines. The flocks were very had to find this year.
Date: 8/11/26 1:02 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Devereux Slough Aug. 11
I made a short stop at Devereux Slough this morning. I didn't See the continuing Neotropic Cormorant, but I met David Blue at the half-bridge and he said he'd had it earlier perched in the tree where the cormorants often roost.
I concentrated on the small group of Sandpipers that were feeding just north of the bridge parking spot. Again, just Western and Least Sandpipers made up the mix, though I found a Spotted Sandpiper along the near edge of the Channel as well. I had an Osprey circling overhead for a few minutes--the first one I've seen at this location in a while.
One of the Least Sandpipers was very odd-looking. It had a large white patch on the Primaries or wing coverts on one side. In addition, it was also larger than any of the other Least Sandpipers in the group. However, the rest of its coloration and the small, delicate shape of its bill certainly looked like Least. (A "Greater Least"?) We compared it with other possible Shorebirds and ruled out both Bairds and Pectoral for many reasons. I think David got a photo of this bird and I showed it to the Levasheffs and Jeff Hanson as well.
Shorebirds are fun sometimes . . .
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/11/26 7:39 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] No Semiplamated Sandpiper found at Area K Last evening (Aug. 10)
For over an hour, Nick Lethaby and I sorted through every small sandpiper that we could find at Area K last evening. We did not turn up a Semipalmated Sandpiper. The area is drying up fast and we noticed a definite decrease in the Egrets that have been hunting there, as well as fewer Greater Yellowlegs and Black-necked Stilts. Meanwhile, the number of Kildeer seems to have increased.
Best we can hope for at this point is that we'll get another Semi-palm somewhere else this season.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/10/26 10:59 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] San Jose Creek August 10
A quieter place from what it's been for the past two days in that there were very few birds of any species singing this morning. I'm not sure if it's because it was overcast to start or what, but I didn't hear a Yellow Warbler or a Hutton's Vireo sing or call until the sun peeked out at 9 a.m., and then only briefly. No Red-eyed Vireo seen or heard at all. This is what I would normally expect at riparian habitats around here in August, but it was a little disappointing.
I then went to Devereux Slough, where I spent a lot of time looking on the through the Sandpiper flock that often hangs out on the mudflats upstream of the half bridge. Had great views of some 30+ birds, but they were all juvenile Westerns of Least Sandpipers. Sometimes there have been Semi-palmated Plovers with this flock, but not this morning. A lone Red-necked Phalarope was swimming further out in the estuary.
Florence
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 08:11 by Laurel S Luby
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5353699&<ll...>,-119.5353699 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381698627 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "First heard it fly over and then saw it at outlet with Willets and Black-bellied Plovers. Medium sized with bold white eye ring, yellow green legs, bobbing tail as foraging. Photos"
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 08:11 by Andrew Brooks
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5353699&<ll...>,-119.5353699 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381707906 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "First heard it fly over and then saw it at outlet with Willets and Black-bellied Plovers. Medium sized with bold white eye ring, yellow green legs . Photos"
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 08:11 by Tom Beland
- Carpinteria Salt Marsh Reserve (restricted access), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5353699&<ll...>,-119.5353699 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381706076 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "First heard it fly over and then saw it at outlet with Willets and Black-bellied Plovers. Medium sized with bold white eye ring, yellow green legs . Photos"
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 12:34 by David Compton
- Goleta Slough Ecological Reserve--Areas I, J, K, L, M, and N, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.84824&<ll...>,-119.84824 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381734049 - Comments: "Juvenile, seen close in. Short, straight bill with broad tip, dark cap compared to Western and contrasting with pale supercilium, darker face than in Western, dark legs, slightly larger than nearby Least. This individual also lacked the obvious red on the scapulars, visible in young Westerns."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 06:59 by Mario Ramos
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381762519 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing Neotropic Cormorant. Observed perched in a tree on the south side of the pullout at the half bridge. Faint white border and no yellow visible on the lores. Photographed from the pullout"
Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) (1)
- Reported Aug 10, 2026 06:34 by Craig Prater
- San Jose Creek--North of Cathedral Oaks, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8107304&<ll...>,-119.8107304 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381953806 - Comments: "Faintly heard but did not see on La Josa Rd near intersection with N. Patterson, near where spotted by others recently. Several sound IDs by Merlin. Will post audio later. Did not see or hear from N. Patterson bridge over San Jose Creek."
Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 07:18 by David Blue
- San Jose Creek--North of Cathedral Oaks, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8107304&<ll...>,-119.8107304 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381776186 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "This bird was olive-green above with no wingbars, and white below. It had a dark eyeline, and a long distinct white eyebrow with a dark stripe above it bordering a gray crown. The bill was longer and thicker than those of our Western Warbling Vireos.
It was quite vocal at times, singing its repetitive musical phrases nonstop for many minutes from high up in the trees. It was first heard at the end of La Josa Road, 200 yards north of Patterson Avenue. Later it was heard and seen looking south from the bridge where Patterson Avenue crosses San Jose Creek. It flew back and forth from one side of the creek to the other and vocalized strongly from the trees on both sides.
This is quite possibly a summering bird as it was first heard here by Thomas Turner on June 2, 2026, and then again by him on August 7."
Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2026 07:18 by Linda Blue
- San Jose Creek--North of Cathedral Oaks, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8107304&<ll...>,-119.8107304 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381776188 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "This bird was olive-green above with no wingbars, and white below. It had a dark eyeline, and a long distinct white eyebrow with a dark stripe above it bordering a gray crown. The bill was longer and thicker than those of our Western Warbling Vireos.
It was quite vocal at times, singing its repetitive musical phrases nonstop for many minutes from high up in the trees. It was first heard at the end of La Josa Road, 200 yards north of Patterson Avenue. Later it was heard and seen looking south from the bridge where Patterson Avenue crosses San Jose Creek. It flew back and forth from one side of the creek to the other and vocalized strongly from the trees on both sides.
This is quite possibly a summering bird as it was first heard here by Thomas Turner on June 2, 2026, and then again by him on August 7."
***********
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Date: 8/10/26 6:48 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Last evening at Area K
Four birders tried our best to pick up a Semi-palmated Sandpiper at Area K last evening. At that time of day, the glare and heat-shimmer problems were much les than in the morning, but the birds had moved to the center of the wetland and were really distant. Even at high power, I had a prospect but just couldn't be sure it was a Semi-palm. One birder digi-scoped a possible bird but the photo was not sharp due to the distance and "possible" was the best adjective that could be applied.
Eventually the birds flew nearer the eastern end of the wetland where they were easier to see, but still no viable prospect for Semi-palm. I also did not see the bird that in the morning, appeared it could be a Baird's Sandpiper.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/10/26 6:36 am From: John Lewis via groups.io <jwlew...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Figueroa Mountain Purple Martin breeding update
I returned to the summit yesterday morning for the first time since early July and saw no sign of the Purple Martins. I spent several minutes at the nesting cavity and observed no activity there. I didn't have time to explore nearby areas so it's possible they are still there but have left the summit area.
It will be interesting to see if this becomes an established breeding site for the PuMas. I recently looked at the observational data through Bird View and saw there have been several random sightings in the mountain areas over the years, but perhaps most relevant is Lynn Scarlett's 2025 report of one PuMa near the Figueroa Mountain summit. So it seems they have been active in the area at least two years in a row, so we can be hopeful they'll return next year.
My overall sense is that the mountain has recovered well from the 2024 Lake Fire, and that there was a greater number and diversity of birds present this year. Of course, much of the summit was spared from the worst of the fire, so perhaps it makes sense that this would be an area of more concentrated bird activity. Earlier this year, in addition to the PuMa's, I saw a group of about 16 Lawrence's Goldfinch, a trio of Northern Pygmy Owls, and what seemed to me to be greater numbers of Purple Finch, Western Wood Pewee, Mountain Quail, Ash Throated Flycatchers and Steller's Jay. I am curious to hear others thoughts about this.
Date: 8/9/26 3:59 pm From: Dave Compton via groups.io <davcompton60...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Area K this morning (Aug 9)
Hi Florence and everyone,
The Semipalmated Sandpiper was close in and easily identified in the early
afternoon, at least for a few minutes. I took my eye off it and lost it,
after getting good looks. If I had seen it even in the middle of the basin,
it might've been hard to ID, with the heat haze.
Shorebird numbers and variety were decent enough, for an area as small as
Area K, but not as good as they can be here. Both dowitcher species were
present, as were Lesser Yellowlegs (heard, then seen flying off to the
east), Greater Yellowlegs, Western and Least Sandpiper (a few dozen peeps
overall), Killdeer, and Semipalmated Plover. All the Black-necked Stilts I
saw were in Basin B/C, the basin farther east that has a bunch of water at
the moment. Some phalaropes were out there, too, but I could not say for
sure which kind.
Dave Compton
Santa Barbara
On Sun, Aug 9, 2026 at 2:43 PM Florence Sanchez via groups.io
<sanchezucsb11...> wrote:
> After getting the Red-eyed Vireo, I went to area K where Nick Lethaby
> reported a Semi-palmated Sandpiper last evening.
>
> As I anticipated, the glare from the morning sun made viewing difficult
> but I resolutely combed through a group of about 25 Sandpipers repeatedly
> without coming up with anything I felt comfortable calling a Semi-palmated
> Sandpiper. I did keep coming back to a bird that appeared to be an adult
> Baird's sandpiper, but I needed a better (or closer) view to be sure.
> Finally, eyestrain and a headache forced me to give it up for this morning.
>
> I stopped at Devereux where I did not turn up the Neotropic Cormorant.
> There was a nice group of shorebirds feeding on a small mudflat just north
> of the half-bridge. Nothing rare among them. I couldn't help wishing that
> the Semi-palmated Sandpiper had shown up there where the viewing was good,
> there was no heat shimmer, and one could stand in shade to observe.
>
> Florence Sanchez
>
>
>
>
Date: 8/9/26 2:43 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Area K this morning (Aug 9)
After getting the Red-eyed Vireo, I went to area K where Nick Lethaby reported a Semi-palmated Sandpiper last evening.
As I anticipated, the glare from the morning sun made viewing difficult but I resolutely combed through a group of about 25 Sandpipers repeatedly without coming up with anything I felt comfortable calling a Semi-palmated Sandpiper. I did keep coming back to a bird that appeared to be an adult Baird's sandpiper, but I needed a better (or closer) view to be sure. Finally, eyestrain and a headache forced me to give it up for this morning.
I stopped at Devereux where I did not turn up the Neotropic Cormorant. There was a nice group of shorebirds feeding on a small mudflat just north of the half-bridge. Nothing rare among them. I couldn't help wishing that the Semi-palmated Sandpiper had shown up there where the viewing was good, there was no heat shimmer, and one could stand in shade to observe.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/9/26 2:36 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] A Little more on San Jose Creek
As reported earlier, Rob Hofberg and I heard and saw (for me, briefly saw) the Red-eyed Vireo on San Jose Creek at North Patterson Avenue early this morning. I'm glad a later group had it low enough for photographs--when I was there it tended to stay very high up.
Whether one turns up the Vireo or not, it's a great place to bird right now and unusually active for August. A lot of stuff is still singing and I've had a nice complement of singing warblers on my visits: Yellow, Orange-crowned, Wilson's, and Common Yellowthroat. Best surprise yesterday (when I did NOT see or hear the Vireo), was a male Western Tanager high up in a eucalyptus tree.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/9/26 12:51 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Red-eyed Vireo
A small group of birders had relatively good views of this bird from the N Patterson Ave bridge later in the morning around 10:45 am. It was down low in a tree at the south east corner of the bridge (34.457601, -119.810462). It was singing loudly.
Date: 8/9/26 8:37 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Red-eyed Vireo
Singing loudly on San Jose Creek at North Patterson and Queen Anne Lane. Has been on both sides of the Patterson Bridge. Tends to stay high in various trees.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/9/26 8:31 am From: Rob Hofberg via groups.io <rhofberg...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Red-eyed Vireo
This morning at 8:00 Florence Sanchez and I found the red-eyed vireo at the corner of Patterson and the San Jose creek bridge. It was singing loudly. We followed it up the creek a bit and then flew out of sight.
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 08, 2026 08:05 by David Blue
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381303767 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "A continuing bird reported August 2 by Nick Lethaby. The submitted photos show the orange facial skin coming to a point at an acute angle and bordered by a very thin faint white line, and no yellow on the lore.
This bird was perched in a tree on the left (south) side of the pullout at the half bridge and was photographed from this location:
(34.4116231, -119.8770116)
It was first seen at 8:05 AM and then flew off alone at 8:14 down the slough toward the beach."
Along La Josa Road. Just east of the creek, in a mix of live oak and avocado trees: (34.45874,-119.80870).
Sang briefly a few times but it was more distant at that point so audio quality is poor.
Presumably a continuing bird, reported most recently yesterday morning. It briefly seemed possible that there were two individuals in the same tree although I think that's unlikely given their rarity here."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/8/26 12:51 pm From: Dave Compton via groups.io <davcompton60...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Black-and-White Warbler at Goleta tech park
At the business park in Goleta formerly known as LogMeIn, a Bland-and -White Warblerm was in a Tipuana tipu tree in the far southwest corner this morning. Otherwise, things were slow.
No sign of the presumed Neotropic Cormorant at Devereux around midday.
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Nazca Booby (Sula granti) (1)
- Reported Aug 07, 2026 10:45 by Alex Eberts
- Prisoner's and Scorpion's harbors transfer (inshore), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5945501&<ll...>,-119.5945501 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380968798 - Comments: "What an unexpected surprise! Subadult but mostly in adult plumage. Orangeish bill and white central tail feathers. Insanely close pass as it flew alongside the boat as we approached the island."
Nazca Booby (Sula granti) (1)
- Reported Aug 07, 2026 10:45 by Wenzheng Fang
- Prisoner's and Scorpion's harbors transfer (inshore), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5945501&<ll...>,-119.5945501 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380986484 - Comments: "What an unexpected surprise! Subadult but mostly in adult plumage. Orangeish bill and white central tail feathers. Insanely close pass as it flew alongside the boat as we approached the island."
Cooper's Hawk (Astur cooperii) (1)
- Reported Aug 07, 2026 11:00 by Alex Eberts
- Santa Cruz Island--Prisoners Harbor, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6821404&<ll...>,-119.6821404 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380969635 - Comments: "Juvenile, seemed pretty small so likely male. Flew into the trees above the picnic tables by the base of the pier and rested for a few minutes before flying off. Was able to see the graduated tail feathers and more prominent orbital ridge giving it an “angry” expression to rule out Sharp-shinned Hawk. Will post photos."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/7/26 7:45 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Area K August 7
I spent some time at this spot around 5 p.m. today. The place is changing rapidly, with a good section of the eastern end of the wetland now almost dry. This resulted in more shorebird activity in the middle of the wetland, but also pushed the Egret community down to the front of the wetland, where they are hard to see from above.
Dominant species are still Black-necked Stilts and Greater Yellowlegs. I found also found 1 Lesser Yellowlegs, Kildeer, 2 Dowitchers and one each Wilson's and Red-necked Plovers. In the far pod nearer the runway, I could make out at least a half dozen Phalaropes on the water, but the distance and heat haze was such that I could not determine the species, even at highest power through my scope.
I did not re-find the Solitary Sandpiper I saw at this location on Wednessday morning.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/7/26 10:27 am From: Thomas Turner via groups.io <habarimbu...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Red Eyed Vireo
Hi Em,
I saw your post of eBird from last month, so I think you might be right. But if it has been singing regularly, it has been doing it somewhere else. I’m not great at spotting birds, but I’m always listening; I live nearby and walk around here all the time. This morning I could hear it from my house!
Tom
> On Aug 7, 2026, at 10:14 AM, Em Stephen via groups.io <em.stephen...> wrote:
>
> It's possible it's different birds, but I think it's likely this one is oversummering -- saw it with my mom about a month ago at vineyard rd and saw that someone else had it about a month before then.
>
Date: 8/7/26 10:14 am From: Em Stephen via groups.io <em.stephen...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Red Eyed Vireo
It's possible it's different birds, but I think it's likely this one is oversummering -- saw it with my mom about a month ago at vineyard rd and saw that someone else had it about a month before then.
Date: 8/7/26 9:27 am From: Thomas Turner via groups.io <habarimbu...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Red Eyed Vireo
I think I heard a Red Eyed Vireo singing on San Jose Creek this morning. I never saw the bird, and Merlin declined to name it based on the recording, so your thoughts are welcome. I unintentionally deleted the best recording, but I did manage this one:
https://ebird.org/checklist/S380851661 This is quite near where I heard & saw one in the spring, but I haven’t heard it singing again since then, and I’m out there about once a week.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 06, 2026 08:08 by Eunice Schroeder
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380589174 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature. Flew into one of the trees across the road from the parking lot by the nature center just after I got out of my car, and remained perching there almost the whole time I was there. Smaller, slimmer, shorter-billed and longer-tailed than the Double-crested Cormorants also perching in the tree. Yellow facial skin at the end of the lower and upper mandibles is angled, like a sideways V, where they meet the cheek and throat, and there is no yellow skin present at the lores, in contrast with DCCO’s. Photos."
Swinhoe's White-eye (Zosterops simplex) (Exotic: Naturalized) (2)
- Reported Aug 06, 2026 15:39 by Dominick Burnham
- 3304 State St, Santa Barbara US-CA 34.44048, -119.73497, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.734971&<ll...>,-119.734971 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380623339 - Comments: "Male with white eye ring and female or juvenile. Coming from and going back to one of the huge fig trees along the 3300 block of State Street, near the First Bank. Heard on Tuesday as well but couldn’t find this bird. Noticed the unique call, and Merlin detected it, both days."
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Date: 8/6/26 2:03 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Neotropic Cormorant (6 reports)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 05, 2026 13:09 by Libby Patten
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380350623 - Comments: "On sandbar viewable from second turnout. With a group of Double-crested Coromants, but almost half as large and with a thinner bill. Will add poor photo."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 05, 2026 09:18 by James Rounds
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380240383 - Comments: "Continuing bird. Smaller than the double cresteds, with a longer tail. Whitish edge to the gape with no orange above in the lores. Foraging and perched in the trees above the dock thing."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2026 15:33 by DairaMorrigan Torres
- Coal Oil Point, Devereux Beach, Sands Beach, and bluff trails, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8783064&<ll...>,-119.8783064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380325896 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Clearly smaller than nearby double crested cormorants with comparably short and stubby bill, and a longer tail. On careful inspection it lacked the yellow facial skin in the lore to distinguish from the others- although the lore is pale and feathery. The acute angle of the mandible in connection with the cheek and neck also favored Neotropic. It was resting on the slough shore at the terminus with Sands Beach, then went fishing (and caught a small flounder) after which it returned to rest. It made a yawning gesture- which I suspect was to process the digestion of the awkwardly shaped fish. This was a juvenile in dark brown to light tan plumage but a similarly small black one was also seen from a distance but not confirmed by us."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/5/26 3:54 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] More on Area K August 5
As previously reported, I found a Solitary Sandpiper there this morning, near the eastern end of the wetland. I spotted it when a Greater Yellowlegs walked behind a much smaller bird (but not small enough to be a "peep"). Even through my scope I could not determine the actual leg color in the bad light, but all the other factors pointed to a juvenile Solitary Sandpiper.
Also present were the usual high number of egrets, plus at least 10 Greater Yellowlegs, 8 Black-necked Stilts, 2 Dowitchers, 2 Least Sandpipers, 1 Western Sandpiper, and several Kildeer. Most of the shorebirds are still congregating in the eastern end, where vegetation clumps may hide of lot of other birds. Still, in the more central portion of the wetland, I found the Stilts, a few Yellowlegs, and the Dowitchers, so I recommend scanning the whole area. And try to avoid the morning light if you can.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/5/26 12:45 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Neotropic Cormorant (9 reports)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2026 13:44 by Craig Prater
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380023287 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Observed on mudflat opposite parking pullout along with 10 double crested. Decidedly smaller and with needle like beak. Was not there when I first arrived and not sure when or where it flew in from. Poor photo below. See bird to the right of the gull."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2026 07:20 by Lynn Scarlett
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S379955756 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing very small cormorant relative to adjacent double created cormorant. More sharply angled at intersection of bare skin and feathers on head. Photo to come."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2026 10:12 by David Blue
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S379771723 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird reported yesterday by Nick Lethaby, and likely the same bird photographed by Mark Bright on July 22. This bird was much shorter and slimmer and had a shorter bill than the nearby Double-crested Cormorants as shown in the attached photo and those of Armando Aispuro who observed the bird with us. It also lacked any yellow on its lore."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2026 10:12 by Linda Blue
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S379773093 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird reported yesterday by Nick Lethaby, and likely the same bird photographed by Mark Bright on July 22. This bird was much shorter and slimmer and had a shorter bill than the nearby Double-crested Cormorants as shown in the attached photo and those of Armando Aispuro who observed the bird with us. It also lacked any yellow on its lore."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2026 08:45 by Lynn Scarlett
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S379630052 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing, first reported by Nick Lethaby; seen with 3 others in Devereux Slough on mudflat with other DC cormorants. Much smaller, relatively short bill, acute angle where lower mandible joined with cheek. See (poor) photos"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2026 15:33 by Chloe Kwon
- Coal Oil Point, Devereux Beach, Sands Beach, and bluff trails, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8783064&<ll...>,-119.8783064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380057200 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Clearly smaller than nearby double crested cormorants with comparably short and stubby bill, and a longer tail. On careful inspection it lacked the yellow facial skin in the lore to distinguish from the others- although the lore is pale and feathery. The acute angle of the mandible in connection with the cheek and neck also favored Neotropic. It was resting on the slough shore at the terminus with Sands Beach, then went fishing (and caught a small flounder) after which it returned to rest. It made a yawning gesture- which I suspect was to process the digestion of the awkwardly shaped fish. This was a juvenile in dark brown to light tan plumage but a similarly small black one was also seen from a distance but not confirmed by us."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2026 15:33 by Armando Aispuro
- Coal Oil Point, Devereux Beach, Sands Beach, and bluff trails, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8783064&<ll...>,-119.8783064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S380056361 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Clearly smaller than nearby double crested cormorants with comparably short and stubby bill, and a longer tail. On careful inspection it lacked the yellow facial skin in the lore to distinguish from the others- although the lore is pale and feathery. The acute angle of the mandible in connection with the cheek and neck also favored Neotropic. It was resting on the slough shore at the terminus with Sands Beach, then went fishing (and caught a small flounder) after which it returned to rest. It made a yawning gesture- which I suspect was to process the digestion of the awkwardly shaped fish. This was a juvenile in dark brown to light tan plumage but a similarly small black one was also seen from a distance but not confirmed by us."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/4/26 6:23 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Figueroa Mountain Purple Martin breeding update
Back on May 31 of this year, I had reporting sighting Purple Martins on Figueroa Mountain and seeing some indication they may be looking to breed in the area. A small group of us including Glenn Kincaid, Mark Holmgren, John Lewis and I undertook the task of tracking the bird's activity. Over time we were able to detect food delivery to the nest cavity and ultimately the presence of a recently fledged bird. Per Paul Lehman, in spite of a small number of other recent sightings, this is the first confirmed breeding in the mountains and away from the Nojoqui/Alisal area in over 35 years, the prior history is found in his "Birds of Santa Barbara County".
Glenn was particularly active in visiting and observed and recorded some unusual behavior. There was at least one additional adult male in the area and several younger birds which at times were active and attentive around the nest cavity. See Glenn's list here which includes some interesting video for starters: California Bird Atlas Checklist - 3 Jul 2026 - Figueroa Mountain area (parent hotspot) - 26 species. ( https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S367187392?continue )
With the known second adult male around we made some effort in searching for an additional nest site but were unsuccessful in that search. If interested in more I suggest you use the eBird species map function and look at the other list posted for the event. Hopefully Glenn, Mark or John will share any additional insight or photo's they collected in their visits.
Date: 8/4/26 3:57 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Red Knot at COPR NOW
A small group of birders had excellent views of this bird as it continued to forage along the water's edge late into the morning. It remained on the west side of the Point when I last saw it at approx. 10:30 am.
Date: 8/4/26 10:40 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] More on COPR shorebirding Aug.4; Neotropic Cormorant at Devereux
I already sent out a quick note about the highlights of the day. Because the low tide is not particularly low, beach walkers were inevitably getting too close to bird flocks and there was a lot of movement as a result, making counting difficult.
As mentioned, I had a molting adult RED KNOT Slightly west of the Point itself this morning, feeding actively in the surf edge. I spotted Lynn Scarlett and got her on the bird, so we should have some nice photos in the eBird report.
Previously, I found a gorgeous adult RUDDY TURNSTONE on the Ellwood portion of the beach. It was first seen foraging well up on the shore among the kelp clumps, but it soon moved back to join the Black-bellied Plover flock on the beach. That flock was soon spooked by a runner and after flying around offshore for several minutes, the flock finally landed much further east on the beach. The Ruddy was still with them and I was just approaching close enough for a photo when the whole flock spooked again due to some on-coming oblivious-to-everything walkers. The flock headed back up the coast toward Ellwood and I quit chasing at that point.
Earlier, I had a Black Turnstone on the reef along with a Spotted Sandpiper (first Spotty I've seen at that location so far this year). I also had a fly-by of another Black Turnstone well off-shore.
Other species routinely seen continue in approximately the same numbers as previous visits. The same 2 Forester's Terns continue and this morning, they foraged over the estuary channel behind the roped-off area for a while.
After I left,I checked for the Neotropic Cormorant that had been found roosting in the bare branches of the trees behind the Nature Center earlier. By the time I arrived, there were no cormorants in those trees. However, a scan of the row of Cormorants resting on the playa of Devereux turned up the desired bird. Definitely smaller to the naked eye; sharp triangular gular pouch clearly visible through the scope.
So who knows what tomorrow will bring? Unfortunately, I won't be able to check the morning beach due to an appointment, but I hope someone else will be out there looking.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 8/4/26 8:58 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Red Knot at COPR NOW
Feeding at tide line just west of the point.
Also found today was a Ruddy Turnstone with BB Plovers well west on Ellwood portion of the beach. More later.
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2026 10:03 by Maxwell Martin
- South Coast Railroad Museum at the Historic Goleta Depot, Goleta US-CA 34.44294, -119.85280, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.852798&<ll...>,-119.852798 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S379628017 - Comments: "Adult with completely rufus back and belly, touch of green on wing, rest of wing dark. Touch of green on head which could suggest a hybrid. Next to rail station and was stationary for over 10 minutes so we were able to study it closely: has been seen here by other members of group."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2026 10:27 by Armando Aispuro
- Coal Oil Point Natural Reserve--Devereux Lagoon, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8756027&<ll...>,-119.8756027 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S379636987 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird. A small and pale cormorant, perhaps 70% size of nearby Double-crested Cormorants. It lacked yellow facial skin on the lore, although the lore was slightly pale. The bill was also relatively short and stubby compared with others. The acute angle of the lower mandible as it joins with the feathery cheek and throat also favors Neotropic."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/3/26 11:39 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] COPR Beach and Devereux, August 2
The number of shorebirds overall was down this morning, for no apparent reason that I could see. For example, I counted79 Black-bellied Plovers today and they were widely scattered all along the beach; the same for Long-billed Curlews (76). I picked up no new species for the season, but 2 Black Turnstones were present on the Ellwood portion of the beach. Nice to see after missing them yesterday.
I checked the Slough mouth area to see if I could pick up the Neotropic Cormorant Nick found yesterday, but there were no Cormorants present in that portion of the Slough. After I finished my beach walk, I checked Devereux from Slough Road. There were about a dozen Double-crested Cormorants there, but none looked small enough to be a Neotropic Cormorant. A small group of juvenile Western Sandpipers was still foraging in approximately the same area where I had them yesterday.
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/2/26 5:43 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Devereux Beach Neotropic Cormorant
All,
I rediscovered the small cormorant at Devereux today. It was easily viewable from the beach sitting on the south edge of the slough. I am comfortable it is a Neotropic as it is much smaller than the Double-crested and showed some of the requisite distinctions in the pattern of the yellow facial skin.
I asked a visiting birder to take some photos so hopefully will have some in a day or so.
Regards,
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Date: 8/2/26 4:58 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] More on Shorebirds
I checked the beach at Coal Oil Point again early this morning. Surprisingly for a weekend, there were very few people on the beach at that time. Few major changes: I could find either of the Black Turnstones I saw yesterday. A single Forester's Tern continues hanging with the larger terns.
Black-bellied plovers were scattered along the length of the beach, with the majority of them foraging west of the Dune Pond Trail Marker. I counted 103 this morning, all molting adults, no juveniles yet. With the appearance of a Pacific Golden-Plover at the Santa Ynez River mouth, I gave each individual careful scrutiny. We are due for this species.
Afterward, I checked Devereux Slough, which was pretty quiet. I found a small group of small shorebirds fairly near the half-bridge: 7 Western Sandpipers, 1 Least Sandpiper, and 6 Semi-palmated Plovers. Of the 7 Westerns, 6 were fresh-plumaged juveniles.
I then checked Area K, which continues to be overrun with Egrets, both species. Quite an impressive show. The shorebird population was somewhat disappointing--not much species variety. I counted 19 Greater Yellowlegs, 6 Black-necked Stilts, 4 Dowitchers, and 2 Kildeer. All continue to forage at the eastern end of the wetland and thus there may have been other birds tucked out of sight.
Florence Sanchez(PS--A Warning: The Isla Vista portion of the Beach at Coal Oil Point has lots of tar to contend with.)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva) (1)
- Reported Aug 01, 2026 15:53 by James Rounds
- Ocean Beach Park and Santa Ynez River Estuary, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6003785&<ll...>,-120.6003785 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S378939517 - Comments: "Continuing. Found earlier by Nick Lethaby. Super distant, scope essential. Smaller than the many black bellies, looked like potentially a molting female. In flight it showed by the clean white underwings with no black in the armpits."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/1/26 3:13 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Coal Oil Point Reserve BEach August 1
Today we turn a page in the calendar to August, the month when we can start to expect unusual (usually juvenile) shorebirds. Needless to say, I didn't find any today just because the calendar changed. Numbers and species were similar to yesterday's counts, but there were 2 Black Turnstones today instead of just one.
As so often happens on weekends, even early in the morning, the number of beach walkers was greater and the Tern flock was disturbed almost constantly. There were 2 Forster's Terns in the group while I was there--the same basic-plumaged adult I saw yesterday ad an adult in full breeding dress.
Black-bellied Plovers continue to dominate the beach along with Long-billed curlews.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/31/26 6:00 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Forster's Tern (2 reports)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/31/26 3:48 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Coal Oil Point Beaches, July 31
Still a nice assortment of shorebirds present this morning. Black-bellied Plovers are gathering in groups--I counted 63 together in just one group today, with many others scattered along the beach. A Black Turnstone was present this morning--third individual I've had at this location so far this season, but none have ever stayed more than 1-2 days.
There were two Forester's terns in the tern flock today. One was obviously that species; the other was a little tricker as the head molt was just starting and it appeared there might be a faint dark carpal bar. However, I conferred with Armando who got good photos of it today and we agreed that it was a Forster's Tern.
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Craveri's Murrelet (Synthliboramphus craveri) (2)
- Reported Jul 29, 2026 15:45 by Joel Barrett
- Prisoner's and Scorpion's harbors transfer (inshore), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5945501&<ll...>,-119.5945501 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S378064777 - Comments: "Two birds initially sitting on the water obvious murrelets. As they flushed, they lifted immediately up into flight, a dark underwing, and the dark spurr on the upper breast/neck was very very obvious"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/30/26 1:48 pm From: Adrian O'Loghlen via groups.io <aologhlen...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Brant at Sands Beach, COPR
There was a Brant on Sands Beach this morning. It stayed at the water's edge near where the Terns, Gulls, etc. were hanging out for a brief period before flying west with a group of Pelicans. Lehman reports that this species is very rare here in mid-summer.
Date: 7/30/26 10:03 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Coal Oil Point Brach, July 30
Early morning walk at low tide did not turn up any new species of shorebirds for this location, but there was a definite increase in the number of Black-bellied Plovers and Willets this morning.
The Tern flock gradually increased after the tide turned but did not include either of the smaller terns (Common and Forster's) that were reported earlier in the week. I suspect both are still around and might be better looked for at a higher tide time.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/29/26 2:46 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Forster's Tern (3 reports)
- Common Tern (3 reports)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) (1)
- Reported Jul 28, 2026 19:08 by Zach Nett
- Mission Creek outflow, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.6869361&<ll...>,-119.6869361 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S377717575 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "thought it was a Forster’s when seen flying among the Elegants, but relocated in the mix of terns on the ground and got better views. smaller than associating Elegants with black bill and incomplete black cap."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/29/26 8:16 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Area K July 28 (evening)
I checked the area last evening and was surprised at how much the water level had dropped since Sunday. As a result, the Egrets have spread out along the perimeter of almost the entire wetland. I did not try to count them but did san the flocks to see if there might be any species other than Snowy and Great Egrets present.
The shorebird population had changed a little, with about the same number of Stilts, Greater Yellowlegs, and Dowitchers present as I found on Sunday. The single Lesser Yellowlegs was also present. New arrivals included 2 Wilson's Phalaropes and 3 Least Sandpipers.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/28/26 1:09 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Ring-necked Duck (1 report)
- Common Tern (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/27/26 11:24 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/27/26 11:21 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] No luck searching for possible Neotropic Cormorant
I checked both Goleta Beach and Devereux this morning, spending considerable time scanning the individuals at both locations through my scope. There is an individual at Goleta Beach with a rather unusual shape of its gular pouch, but overall size and other characteristics do not indicate a Neo.
The estuary channel at Goleta Beach is extremely full, with water coming well up the banks of the channel. The entrance outfall is securely blocked and it will take human intervention to open it up. Until then, the habitat is lousy for shorebirds. I found only a single Spotted Sandpiper on its shore this morning.
At Devereux, there was a nice mixed flock of small shorebirds feeding upstream of the broken bridge: Semi-palmated plovers, Western Sandpipers, a couple of Least Sandpipers, 2 Dowitchers, and a Kildeer.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/26/26 10:18 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Area K and Devereux Slough, July 26
I checked out Area K this morning and found the east end most productive. Shorebirds are definitely gathering here as the water levels drop and the Egret population is loving it. Best find this morning was a single Lesser Yellowlegs in with the Greaters (at least 10). Also present were at least 10 Dowitchers (silent), 18 Black-necked Stilts, and a single Sandpiper that stayed behind just enough grass to be unidentifiable. I counted 47 Snowy Egrets and 23 Great Egrets as well. I expect the numbers to increase in the days ahead.
Best viewing of this area is probably evening as the light will be behind the observer, not behind the birds as it was this morning. I'd avoid daytime on weekdays because of the hectic construction in the vicinity.
Moving on to Devereux, I found 1 continuing Wilson's Phalarope 27 Western Sandpipers, and 1 Least Sandpiper, along with the usual Herons and Double-crested Cormorants. No sign of a Neotropic Cormorant--I did not check Goleta Beach for the latter species
Florence Sanchez
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Forster's Tern (Sterna forsteri) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jul 25, 2026 07:06 by John Deacon
- Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve, including Santa Maria River Estuary (SBA Co.), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6473815&<ll...>,-120.6473815 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S376263138 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Smallish tern. Pale nape. Distinctive black eye patch. Dark beak. No carpal bar. Deeply forked tail. Flying over estuary."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Jul 25, 2026 17:39 by Asher Perla
- Goleta Beach Park (including east end of Goleta Slough), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.829812&<ll...>,-119.829812 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S376447097 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "(34.4178027, -119.8291650) perched among a bunch of DCCOs. Immediately stood out as small, slender, and long tailed. Watched for quite a while as it sat with DCCOs, fished in the water, and was harassed by DCCO. Seen from several angles. No white around yellow gape, which was limited to just below the bill, none above. The pointedness of the gular skin didn’t stand out to me, but it was somewhat hard to tell at the distance I was seeing it at. Many digibins. My mom independently picked it out and commented on its slender shape and small appearance as well as its “more sleek/dark feathers” without knowing these as field marks for NECO."
***********
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/25/26 8:04 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (1 report)
- Forster's Tern (5 reports)
- Common Tern (1 report)
- Common Yellowthroat (trichas Group) (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/24/26 3:22 pm From: Daniel Farrar via groups.io <jdanielfarrar...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] Rancho Guadalupe Dunes - Tern Show continues with six species
Yesterday at Arroyo Grande Creek mouth there was a one-day wonder Sooty
Tern. Rancho would be a perfect place to refind it!
Today Ocean Park had maybe two dozen terns. Mostly Elegants and no
candidates for something interesting.
Daniel Farrar
Lompoc, CA
<jdanielfarrar...>
On Fri, Jul 24, 2026, 2:46 PM Peter Schneekloth via groups.io
<peterschneekloth...> wrote:
> Seemed to be an uptick in Elegant Terns but I also had Common, Forster's,
> Least, Caspian and Royal Tern this morning. Lots of birds stay well back in
> the estuary but with patience sooner or later they land on beach or give
> reasonable flyby.
>
> Peter Schneekloth
> Buellton
>
>
Date: 7/24/26 2:46 pm From: Peter Schneekloth via groups.io <peterschneekloth...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Rancho Guadalupe Dunes - Tern Show continues with six species
Seemed to be an uptick in Elegant Terns but I also had Common, Forster's, Least, Caspian and Royal Tern this morning. Lots of birds stay well back in the estuary but with patience sooner or later they land on beach or give reasonable flyby.
Date: 7/24/26 6:18 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Northern Pintail (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/23/26 10:46 pm From: Hugh Ranson via groups.io <zonetail1...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Possible Neotropic Cormorant
Yesterday Mark Bright and I had permission to go into the Coal Oil Point Reserve to survey bees on the north side of the dunes. There was a flock of cormorants on the shore of the lagoon that wouldn't have been visible from the beach. I glassed through them but didn't see anything unusual, but upon seeing a photo that Mark took of the flock, it's apparent there was a diminutive bird amongst the group. The size and proportions look good for Neotropis, but the bird was too distant to pick out other features.
Date: 7/23/26 4:36 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (1 report)
- Pacific Loon (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Pacific Loon (Gavia pacifica) (1)
- Reported Jul 16, 2026 13:35 by Daniel Scali
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Anchorage and Beach Area, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5555481&<ll...>,-119.5555481 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S375257333 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "My first thought was some kind of leucisism but then I realized the glare off a breeding plumaged palo made sense for the bird's size and shape"
***********
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Date: 7/22/26 8:27 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] North Coast birding
All,
I decided to go up to the North Coast today. At times I was wearing a hoodie so I got a real shock when I arrived on the South Coast!
The main highlight was the large tern flock at the Santa Maria River Estuary. I eventually dug up 4 different Common Terns (a mostly alternate adult and three 1Y old birds) and there was also a Forster's there as well. I had hoped to see Least Terns well but although they were always in view, they were very distant. Any tips on where to get closer views of them at the SMRE would be welcome.
Shorebirds were pretty distant and I failed to find any of interest. The number of Eared Grebes at the SMRE was impressive. It is interesting to me that there were no Western or Clark's breeding there, like on the SYRE, where there are typically no breeding Eared Grebes.
I then had a good check of the SYRE and it was 'make to want to give up birding' bad, with very few shorebirds and only a single tern (I think the terns there are out of view on the ocean side of a sandspit at the mouth). Generally, I don't think Ocean Park and the SYRE is really worth the drive right now from the S Coast.
Regards.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
Date: 7/21/26 6:59 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Good birding at Santa Maria river mouth
I made the trek this morning and it was well worth hauling my scope a long way over soft sand (and a gimpy knee) to get to the estuary mouth. The big show was the large tern flock. Although they were in full "tern behavior" mode today , never staying in one place for very long, I was lucky enough to pick up the Common Tern reported previously when some of the flock touched down near me. And several Least Terns foraging were fun to watch.
Shorebirds tended to hug the far shore, but there were lots of them to go thorugh and though I didn't find the REd Knot that Jamie discovered earlier, I found a spiffy adult Ruddy Turnstone to make up for it. Though it's early for Long-billed Dowitchers, it did appear that there might have been two of them mixed in with the flock of about 15 Short-billed Dowitchers (red on the underside all the way down through the base of the tail). It was also gorgeous weather.
Afterwards, I stopped at Jack O' Connell Park, which was being mowed, so I checked out the Guadalupe Sewage treatment Ponds, where nothing much was going on. I did, however, have a nice White-tailed Kite circling overhead.
My final stop was Ocean Park, where I was able to bird in shirt sleeves for one of the very few times in all my visits there. A small but persistent flock of small shorebirds kept returning to the mud patch below the edge of the parking lot (Semi-palmated Plovers, Kildeer, Western Sandpipers, and a few Least Sandpipers) but I could pull out nothing else there. The rest of the estuary was pretty quiet. I saw the continuing Osprey too.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/21/26 1:07 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Rose-breasted Grosbeak (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) (1)
- Reported Jul 20, 2026 06:49 by Craig Prater
- Coal Oil Point, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.8816409&<ll...>,-119.8816409 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S374400777 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Heard only in UCSB parking lot 2642 high up in a cedar tree. Heard for maybe 30 seconds with repeated sound ID from Merlin and then went silent or flew away. Have added audio clip which also includes Merlin IDs of Oak Titmouse and California Towee, both of which were heard by me as well, but from different directions than the call that Merlin IDed as the grosbeak."
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Date: 7/19/26 10:59 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Tern (3 reports)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/19/26 11:29 am From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Wilson's Phalaropes still at Devereux
I found three of them this morning with some difficulty. They were viewable from the first pullout on Slough Road through my scope, but they were quite distant and not easy to see. They were hanging out with the continuing group of Western Sandpipers that has been there since very early July. The Sandpiper group was down to 28 from a high of 71.
Shorebird movement continues through Coal Oil Point. Though I haven't turned up any new species over the past couple of days, the number of individuals has been gradually increasing, and we are still getting a good number of them in nice breeding plumage.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/18/26 8:57 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Tern (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/18/26 8:16 am From: Jamie Chavez via groups.io <almiyi...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Fw: [CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Newsletter + Town Hall + Top 20 Species
Forwarding this to sbcobirding because there is an opportunity to view a live Zoom Town Hall this coming Thursday 7/23 at 7:00 PM on late season breeders. You must register to watch this live event, but there will be a recorded replay available later if you can't participate on Thursday. Also check out the Atlas Dispatch, new Code Check tool, and updated Blockboard links in Van's message.
In SBA County to date:
- 123 confirmed breeding species - 177 species coded - 57% of county blocks (181 total) have been censused
Jamie M. Chavez Santa Maria, CA
------- Forwarded Message ------- From: Van Pierszalowski via groups.io <van...> Date: On Wednesday, July 15th, 2026 at 11:41 AM Subject: [CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Newsletter + Town Hall + Top 20 Species To: <CALBIRDS...> <CALBIRDS...>
On Fri, Jul 17, 2026 at 5:09 PM Jamie Chavez via groups.io <almiyi=
<protonmail.com...> wrote:
> Even more on shorebirds from the Santa Maria River mouth today. This
> included a Red Knot, a sizeable flock of Western Sandpipers, and a few
> Red-necked Phalaropes. Also present was a Common Tern. Confirmed breeding
> Eared Grebe for the CA Bird Atlas. Most birds were toward the northern end,
> or what might be considered in SLO. Curiously, there was a 3" white egg
> sitting on the edge of the estuary shoreline. Anyone want to take a stab at
> which species might be involved?
>
> https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S373239714 >
> Jamie M. Chavez
> Santa Maria, CA
>
> On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 3:38 PM, Florence Sanchez via groups.io
> <sanchezucsb11...> wrote:
>
> I have been walking COP Beaches very early in the morning this week. It's
> been nice to pick up returning species like Sanderlings, Least Sandpiper,
> and Black Turnstone, while seeing the numbers increase a little each day
> for Western Sandpipers, SB Dowitchers, Black-bellied Plovers, and all the
> large shorebirds. Today I found an adult Surfbird at the western edge of
> the reef. I think this is quite early for this species.
>
> Also present today were four adult, clean California Gulls. Last year a
> few of these gulls over-summered, but this year, they have been scarce.
>
> Florence Sanchez
>
>
>
> --
> Jamie Chavez
> Santa Maria, CA
>
>
>
Date: 7/17/26 7:19 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Forster's Tern (1 report)
- Common Tern (2 reports)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Jul 17, 2026 10:57 by Jamie Chavez
- Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve, including Santa Maria River Estuary (SBA Co.), Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6473815&<ll...>,-120.6473815 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S373239714 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Shorter than Elegant Terns, and about the same size as the Forster's Tern. Black in the face and on hind neck. Black bill, Black carpal bars visible. Flew around the estuary a couple of times, once close enough for a photo"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 7/17/26 6:20 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] More shorebirds, including a White-rumped Sandpiper (not chaseable)
All,
Thanks to Ben Byerly for pointing out that I meant Wilson's PHALAROPE, not plover.
Nick Lethaby Goleta, CA <nlethaby...> +1 805 284 6200
On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 5:45 PM, Nick Lethaby <nlethaby...> wrote:
> All, > > In addition to the birds reported by Florence at COPR and Jamie at the SMRE, there was a Lesser Yellowlegs and 3 (Lynn S had 6 earlier) Wilson's Plovers at Devereux. I had a Solitary Sandpiper a couple of days back at Laguna Blanca. Shorebird numbers were clearly up (except for Westerns) at the SYRE yestesrday as well, with season highs for pretty much every species I saw there. So it appears things are finally taking off. > > A few days ago, there was an adult White-rumped Sandpiper at the Santa Ynez River Estuary. I could not release the information due it being only visible from base property. It appeared to move on that day and has not been seen subsequently, despite some checking. Some photos are on this blog entry: > > https://thegoletabirder.blogspot.com/2026/07/end-of-38-year-hoodoo-well-sort-of.html > > Nick Lethaby > Goleta, CA, > <nlethaby...> > +1 805 284 6200 > > Sent with [Proton Mail](https://proton.me/mail/home) secure email. > > On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 5:09 PM, Jamie Chavez via groups.io <almiyi...> wrote: > >> Even more on shorebirds from the Santa Maria River mouth today. This included a Red Knot, a sizeable flock of Western Sandpipers, and a few Red-necked Phalaropes. Also present was a Common Tern. Confirmed breeding Eared Grebe for the CA Bird Atlas. Most birds were toward the northern end, or what might be considered in SLO. Curiously, there was a 3" white egg sitting on the edge of the estuary shoreline. Anyone want to take a stab at which species might be involved? >> >> https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S373239714 >> >> Jamie M. Chavez >> Santa Maria, CA >> >> On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 3:38 PM, Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> wrote: >> >>> I have been walking COP Beaches very early in the morning this week. It's been nice to pick up returning species like Sanderlings, Least Sandpiper, and Black Turnstone, while seeing the numbers increase a little each day for Western Sandpipers, SB Dowitchers, Black-bellied Plovers, and all the large shorebirds. Today I found an adult Surfbird at the western edge of the reef. I think this is quite early for this species. >>> >>> Also present today were four adult, clean California Gulls. Last year a few of these gulls over-summered, but this year, they have been scarce. >>> >>> Florence Sanchez >> >> -- >> Jamie Chavez >> Santa Maria, CA >>
Date: 7/17/26 5:45 pm From: Nick Lethaby via groups.io <nlethaby...> Subject: [sbcobirding] More shorebirds, including a White-rumped Sandpiper (not chaseable)
All,
In addition to the birds reported by Florence at COPR and Jamie at the SMRE, there was a Lesser Yellowlegs and 3 (Lynn S had 6 earlier) Wilson's Plovers at Devereux. I had a Solitary Sandpiper a couple of days back at Laguna Blanca. Shorebird numbers were clearly up (except for Westerns) at the SYRE yestesrday as well, with season highs for pretty much every species I saw there. So it appears things are finally taking off.
A few days ago, there was an adult White-rumped Sandpiper at the Santa Ynez River Estuary. I could not release the information due it being only visible from base property. It appeared to move on that day and has not been seen subsequently, despite some checking. Some photos are on this blog entry:
On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 5:09 PM, Jamie Chavez via groups.io <almiyi...> wrote:
> Even more on shorebirds from the Santa Maria River mouth today. This included a Red Knot, a sizeable flock of Western Sandpipers, and a few Red-necked Phalaropes. Also present was a Common Tern. Confirmed breeding Eared Grebe for the CA Bird Atlas. Most birds were toward the northern end, or what might be considered in SLO. Curiously, there was a 3" white egg sitting on the edge of the estuary shoreline. Anyone want to take a stab at which species might be involved? > > https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S373239714 > > Jamie M. Chavez > Santa Maria, CA > > On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 3:38 PM, Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> wrote: > >> I have been walking COP Beaches very early in the morning this week. It's been nice to pick up returning species like Sanderlings, Least Sandpiper, and Black Turnstone, while seeing the numbers increase a little each day for Western Sandpipers, SB Dowitchers, Black-bellied Plovers, and all the large shorebirds. Today I found an adult Surfbird at the western edge of the reef. I think this is quite early for this species. >> >> Also present today were four adult, clean California Gulls. Last year a few of these gulls over-summered, but this year, they have been scarce. >> >> Florence Sanchez > > -- > Jamie Chavez > Santa Maria, CA >
Date: 7/17/26 5:09 pm From: Jamie Chavez via groups.io <almiyi...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] More on shorebirds
Even more on shorebirds from the Santa Maria River mouth today. This included a Red Knot, a sizeable flock of Western Sandpipers, and a few Red-necked Phalaropes. Also present was a Common Tern. Confirmed breeding Eared Grebe for the CA Bird Atlas. Most birds were toward the northern end, or what might be considered in SLO. Curiously, there was a 3" white egg sitting on the edge of the estuary shoreline. Anyone want to take a stab at which species might be involved?
On Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 3:38 PM, Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> wrote:
> I have been walking COP Beaches very early in the morning this week. It's been nice to pick up returning species like Sanderlings, Least Sandpiper, and Black Turnstone, while seeing the numbers increase a little each day for Western Sandpipers, SB Dowitchers, Black-bellied Plovers, and all the large shorebirds. Today I found an adult Surfbird at the western edge of the reef. I think this is quite early for this species. > > Also present today were four adult, clean California Gulls. Last year a few of these gulls over-summered, but this year, they have been scarce. > > Florence Sanchez > >
Date: 7/17/26 3:38 pm From: Florence Sanchez via groups.io <sanchezucsb11...> Subject: [sbcobirding] More on shorebirds
I have been walking COP Beaches very early in the morning this week. It's been nice to pick up returning species like Sanderlings, Least Sandpiper, and Black Turnstone, while seeing the numbers increase a little each day for Western Sandpipers, SB Dowitchers, Black-bellied Plovers, and all the large shorebirds. Today I found an adult Surfbird at the western edge of the reef. I think this is quite early for this species.
Also present today were four adult, clean California Gulls. Last year a few of these gulls over-summered, but this year, they have been scarce.
Florence Sanchez
Date: 7/17/26 8:34 am From: Wim van Dam via groups.io <wim.van.dam...> Subject: [sbcobirding] White-tailed Kite roost, Solvang, 2026-07-16
I was pleasantly surprised last evening when at least 16 White-tailed Kite showed up to roost in my neighbor's yard in Solvang. This location is 10 km to the south-west of Sedgwick Reserve.
Date: 7/14/26 2:21 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [sbcobirding] [eBird Alert] Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Hudsonian Whimbrel (2 reports)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> Santa Barbara County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in Santa Barbara County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN35915 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Hudsonian Whimbrel (Numenius hudsonicus) (12)
- Reported Jul 12, 2026 09:19 by Mathias Kuhlmann
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Anchorage and Beach Area, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5555481&<ll...>,-119.5555481 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S371791582 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Very distant and lousy look while on boat, but is an exact count of birds seen. Flying east just off the northeast side of Santa Cruz Island near the scorpion anchorage. Large, light-brown shorebirds with long downward curving bills and bold, dark lines extending from bill through the eye."
Hudsonian Whimbrel (Numenius hudsonicus) (12)
- Reported Jul 12, 2026 09:19 by Luke Hulse
- Santa Cruz Island--Scorpion Anchorage and Beach Area, Santa Barbara, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.5555481&<ll...>,-119.5555481 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S371793127 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Very distant and lousy look while on boat, but is an exact count of birds seen. Flying east just off the northeast side of Santa Cruz Island near the scorpion anchorage. Large, light-brown shorebirds with long downward curving bills and bold, dark lines extending from bill through the eye."
***********
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
