1869

THE LIBRARY

The Kentucky Warbler

(Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society)

Vol. 49

FEBRUARY, 1973

No. 1

WILD TURKEYS

IN THIS ISSUIL__

SOME NOTES ON A BIRD FEEDING PROJECT, Donald Summerfield . ^ 3
MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT, 1972-1973 ^ . 'Y 5

NOTES FROM BELL COUNTY, Ray Harm . * ife

SHOREBIRDS OBSERVED NEAR HAWESVILLE, - ^

HANCOCK COUNTY, KENTUCKY, Fred J. Alg^ilr?..,';' 18

FIELD NOTES ^ 19

NEWS AND VIEWS TlIE, .20

. Op TT.ir ;

2

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson

President Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Louisville

Vice-President A. L. Whitt, Jr., Richmond

Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Mary Louise Daubard

616 Rudy Lane, Louisville 40207

Recording Secretary Sister Casimer Czurles, Owensboro

Councillors:

Albert Powell, Maceo 1971-1973

Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green 1971-1973

Ramon R. lies, Owensboro 1972-1974

Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1972-1974

Retiring President Ray Nall, Murray

Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville

Staff Artist Ray Harm, Chenoa

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Organ of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. Published quarterly in
February, May, August, and November. The KENTUCKY WARBLER is
sent to all members not in arrears for dues. Membership dues are: Active
or Regular, $3.00; Contributing, $5.00; Student, $2.00; Life, $50.00; Family,
$1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues. All
articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscrip-
tions, memberships, and requests for back issues should be sent to the
treasurer.

Editor Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm, 9101 Spokane Way,

Louisville 40222

Assistant Editor Joseph E. Croft, 2366 Gladstone Avenue,

Louisville 40205

Editorial Advisory Board

Roger W. Barbour Leonard C. Brecher

Herbert E. Shadowen

OUR COVER

A reproduction of Ray Harm’s artistic painting of the Wild Turkey is
featured on the cover page. This past winter these fine birds have been
making their appearance more frequently in such places as Land Between
the Lakes (see Mid-Winter Bird Count elsewhere in this issue) and in
Bernheim Forest.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

3

SOME NOTES ON A BIRD FEEDING PROJECT*

Donald Summerfield

The Beckham Bird Club undertook a study of limited control into the
feeding choices of birds that were visiting the various members’ established
feeding stations.

This work included only those feeds that were easily obtainable com-
mercially and made no effort to make any study of the feeds that were in
any way of an exotic or especially prepared nature, even though it is
recognized that feeds of the latter type are frequently useful in attracting
or holding birds of certain desired species.

The project consisted of issuing 30 packages of prepared feed to mem-
bers at intervals. These packages were of different mixtures and identified
as type A, B, and C, and were composed of the following:

1) Type A — One third ground corn

One third ground wheat
One third rolled oats

2) Type B — One third ground corn

One third wheat
One third cane seed

3) Type C — One fourth ground corn

One fourth wheat
One fourth cane
One eighth sunflower seed
One eighth millet

Of the thirty packages distributed, twelve replies were received; one reply
represented the observer’s experience in watching birds at feeding stations
for more than a decade. The accompanying chart or table represents the
information returned by the members.

The acceptance of the feed at the feeding stations by the 24 species
represented has been broken down into five basic classifications: I Most
accepted; II Accepted; III Accepted as residual feed; IV Rejected; V In-
sufficient information.

Since the primary close range objective of this study was to assist
members in the operation of their feeding stations, there are several obser-
vations which might possibly be made at this point, even though we should
point out most clearly that much additional study is necessary before any
information of a definite nature can be realized.

1) The most accepted feed of the “desirable” birds seems to be sun-
flower seed. Sunflower seed is sold on the market generally as “Large Gray,”
“Medium Gray,” or “Black.” No evaluation has been made of the relative
merit of the different grades. Britton and Brown list some 37 species of

*Ed. note: This paper worked up in 1949 by the late Dr. Harvey B. Lovell and Donald
Summerfield was given at a regular meeting of the Beckham Bird Club some 20 years
ago. It shows an early effort to obtain factual data on bird feeding at established feed-
ing stations. Perhaps many of us could add to this information with what we now
know. Special studies and projects by biologists are being conducted today to determine
just what grains or seeds birds choose at feeding stations.

4

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

Heliayithiis within its range. 2) The next most accepted feed (Class II) is
cracked corn. No evaluation has yet been made of the acceptability of the
grind. 3) Very little information is available on Class III (that which is
acceptable as residual feed), presumably because of twilight or nocturnal
visits to feeding stations by rabbits, squirrels, or other small animals. 4)
The most rejected feed seems to be rolled oats. Following rolled oats as the
most rejected feed would seem to be seeds of the genus Holcus, which in-
cludes cane, Kafir corn, etc. This evaluation is difficult to explain in view
of its known feed value in the wild. 5) Classification V (insufficient infor-
mation category) is the largest group and the one to which we all feel we
already know the answers. The report is compiled, however, only on the
basis of information received. Millet, generally considered a desirable and,
incidentally, a somewhat expensive ingredient of good mixtures, falls in
Classification V probably because its size makes close observation difficult.

Sun-

Med. Cr.

flower

Rolled

Com

Seed

Millet

Cane

Wheat

Oats

Mourning Dove

I

V

III

V

V

V

Yellow-shafted Flicker

II

V

V

rv

V

rv

Red-bellied Woodpecker

III

I

V

IV

V

rv

Red-headed Woodpecker

V

V

V

rv

V

rv

Hairy Woodpecker

V

I

V

rv

V

IV

Downy Woodpecker

V

I

V

rv

V

rv

Blue Jay

II

I

V

V

V

V

Carolina Chickadee

III

I

II

V

V

V

Tufted Titmouse

V

I

V

V

V

rv

White-breasted Nuthatch

V

I

V

V

V

rv

Carolina Wren

V

V

V

V

V

rv

Mockingbird

V

V

V

V

V

rv

Starling

I

V

V

V

V

rv

Myrtle Warbler

V

V

V

rv

V

rv

House Sparrow

I

II

V

III

II

V

Common Crackle

I

V

V

V

V

rv

Cardinal

II

I

V

IV

II

V

Purple Finch

V

I

V

V

V

rv

American Goldfinch

V

V

V

V

V

rv

Rufous-sided Towhee

II

V

V

V

V

rv

Slate-colored Junco

III

V

II

V

V

V

White-crowned Sparrow

I

V

II

V

V

rv

White-throated Sparrow

I

V

V

rv

V

rv

Song Sparrow

II

V

I

V

V

V

I — Most accepted III — Accepted as residual IV — Rejected

II — Accepted feed V — Insufficient information

There are several points of interest, however, that could be pin-pointed
from the study.

a) The favorite feed of the House Sparrow (Passer domestieus) is not
sunflower seed but cracked corn. If one has a House Sparrow problem,
perhaps it could be overcome, in part, by operating two feeders a short
distance apart, one containing cracked corn and the other sunflower seed
to attract the more “desirable” birds.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

5

b) The feeding habits of the woodpeckers should certainly be an inter-
esting pursuit of anyone operating a feeding station in a wooded area.

c) The price of the mixture is no particular index to its acceptability;
note the very wide range of acceptability of ordinary inexpensive cracked
corn.

d) The visits of the Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) to
feeding stations deserves close attention but it is probably a visit in search
of insects incidental to the operation of the feeding station.

e) Of considerable interest in a broader perspective is the apparent
dissimilarity of feeding preferences between birds in the wild and birds at
feeding stations. This situation is pointed up by the low acceptability of
the genus Holms.

This project has pointed out the fact that much additional work is
necessary to present any information of a comprehensive or conclusive
nature. It is felt that the feeding habits or preferences of birds at feeding
stations represents a considerable “gray” area in which a great deal of
general information is available but an area in which exact or documented
information is considerably lacking.

— 9910 Prairie Drive, Valley Station 40272

MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT
1972-1973

Our 1972-1973 count is quite good and is the highest species count since
the census of 1966-1967. A total of 177 people (not counting duplications
because of participation in more than one count) took part this year, find-
ing 110 species, plus one hybrid (Mallard x Black Duck) and six more for
the period. Some unusual species appear on our lists: Greater Scaup, Gos-
hawk, Peregrine Falcon, Black-capped Chickadee, House Wren, Catbird,
Brown Thrasher, Palm Warbler, Vesper Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, and
Lapland Longspur. Red-breasted Nuthatches are widely scattered and in
good numbers. Evening Grosbeaks appear on only three counts, but have
now spread from one end of the state to the other, with large concentrations
in southwestern Jefferson County.

The editor wishes to thank the participants for their support and to
again remind them to send detailed information on unusual birds for the
season. This information is essential in order for us to keep our records
valid and valuable.

THE LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES (all points within a 15-mile
diameter circle, center Mulberry Flat Road and KY 453 (The Trace) ; Lake
river shores 30%, fields 30%, deciduous woods 40%). — Dec. 21; 6:30 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m. Overcast all day; temp. 34° to 44°; wind NNW, 2-3 m.p.h.
Eighteen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours, 46 (16 on foot, 30 by
car). Total party-miles, 231 (17 on foot, 214 by car). Total, 69 species,
125,789 individuals. (Seen in area count period, but not on count day:
American Widgeon, Lesser Scaup, Golden Eagle (1 im.). Brown Creeper,
Brown-headed Cowbird.)

Perhaps the most significant factor was the weather. Recent heavy
rains had raised the lakes almost six feet, and this was at least partially
responsible for dispersing ducks and geese, driving them out of otherwise

6

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

cozy bays and inlets with adequate food supply. Fields were soggy, dimpled
with shallow pools, from some of which we flushed the Common Snipes, a
rare species on this count.

Although once regularly found, the Great Blue Heron was the first
reported on a Christmas Count in this area for many years. Similarly un-
usual were the Red-breasted Nuthatches; and Turkeys though obvious un-
common residents, have seldom been reported on the count. Sightings this
fall and winter indicate widespread movement on the part of Turkeys and
more frequent observations than usual. Perhaps the shortage of food (poor
acorn crop, for example) may be a factor. The Red-headed Woodpecker
boom of recent years has slumped although not to the pre-1967 rare status,
and Loggerhead Shrikes are somewhat more regularly seen in the LBL
than in previous years.

The Starling roost at Kentucky Dam continues to grow annually and
now uses all of the perching area on the metal substructure below the
roadway. Late comers perch almost anywhere on the superstructure. —
Rusty Colvard, Larry Doyle, Joe Tom Erwin, Willard Gray, Nita Graham,
Bob Head, Larry Lamely, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Madrey, Ray Nall, Clell
Peterson (compiler), Lawrence Philpot, Ann Render, Patricia Render, Bob
Smith, Paul W. Sturm, Carl Wallschlaeger, Jack Wilson.

MARION (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Forest
Grove). — Dec. 31; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Clear; temp. 30° to 45°; wind
SW, 0-12 m.p.h. Tw'o observers in 1 party. Total party hours, 11 (5 on
foot, 6 by car). Total party-miles, 21 (6 on foot, 15 by car). Total, 40
species, 1725 individuals. (Seen in area count period, but not on count day:
Sharp-shinned Hawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Catbird.)

The low duck count was disappointing. However, the three Bald Eagles
(one immature, two unclassified to age) w'ere of interest. The Catbird was
found along a 300 foot honeysuckle fence row. — C. L. Frazer (compiler),
Jim Frazer.

MADISONVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center
Madisonville, to include J. W. Hancock farm. Brown Road, Elk Creek, KY
892, 2 lakes near Madisonville; deciduous woodlands and thickets 50%, lake
shore 30%, open fields 20%). — Dec. 31; 6:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Clear;
temp. 32° to 27°; wind SE, 5-20 m.p.h. Lakes open. Ten observers in 1
party. Total party-hours, 10 (8 on foot, 2 by car). Total party-miles, 43 (7
on foot, 36 by car). Total, 42 species, 1762 individuals. (Seen in area count
period, but not on count day: Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead,
Horned Lark, Hermit Thrush, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Cedar Waxwing,
Myrtle Warbler.)

The chilly wind, as it became stronger, kept most land birds under
cover. The few ducks observed may be due to increased hunting pressure
and reportedly illegal hunting practices. Coots were present in good num-
bers. The big blackbird roost has moved away and its present location is
not known. — Edward Barnes, Mrs. Lera Barnes, Chip Coffman, Mrs.
Polly Coffman, Selby Coffman, James W. Hancock (compiler), Mrs. Sue
Place, Dan Reasons, Mrs. Mary Travis, Mrs. Irene Wells.

PENNYRILE FOREST STATE PARK (all points within a 15-mile
diameter circle, center park lodge, to include the park’s deciduous and pine
woods, fields, Pennyrile Lake, and adjoining farmlands). — Dec. 24; 6:30
a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Heavy overcast; light rain in a.m. followed by snow. Six
observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours, 14 (12 on foot, 2 by car). Total

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

7

party-miles, 30 (10 on foot, 20 by car). Total, 35 species, 348 individuals.

This was the poorest count in many years, perhaps due to weather con-
ditions. The immature Golden Eagle observed by Andrews, Kemp, and Gray
was identified by its large size, white tail with black rim, and white patches
under wings.

The Red-breasted Nuthatch, Purple Finch, and American Goldfinch
were in good numbers, but some of our more common species such as the
Mourning Dove, Eastern Bluebird, and House Sparrow were not recorded.
— Don Andrews, Frank Clayton, Willard Gray, Gregory Hancock, James
W. Hancock (compiler), Chesley Kemp.

HENDERSON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center New
Courthouse, to include Audubon State Park, Ohio River from mouth of
Green River, north half of Diamond Island, keeping to Kentucky shore of
Ohio River in agreement with Evansville Audubon Society). — Dec. 31;
7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Clear; temp. 32° to 50°; wind, WSW, 6-12 m.p.h.
Fourteen observers in 11 parties. Total party-hours, 86 (70 on foot, 16 by
car). Total party-miles, 130 (30 on foot, 100 by car). Total, 58 species,
14,696 individuals. (Seen in area count period, but not on count day: Gold-
en-crowned Kinglet.)

Five of the American Woodcocks were seen by Robert Bolds and Donan
Jenkins, Fish and Wildlife Department officers. — King Benson, Robert
Bolds, Davis Gatlin, Carol Gatlin (compiler), Donan Jenkins, Mrs. Ross
Parsons, W. P. Rhoads, Virginia Smith, Judy Utley, Mr. and Mrs. Keith
Utley, Mr. and Mrs. Ike Utley, Lora Wiley.

SORGHO (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Sorgho;
open fields, woodlots, creek bottoms, and streams. This year high water
forced some change in the areas normally covered). — Dec. 28; 8:00 a.m.
to 4:00 p.m. Clear; temp. 30° to 46°; wind, 5-10 m.p.h. Six observers in 3
parties. Total party-hours, 15y2 (14 Vz on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles,
45 (10 on foot, 35 by car). Total, 43 species, 4,513 individuals. (Seen in
area count period, but not on count day: Mallard, Black Duck, Marsh Hawk,
Killdeer.)

A pleasant surprise was finding eight Brown Thrashers. Each winter
this species has shown a slight increase and this may be due, in part, to a
local planting of Multiflora Rose bushes. Bluebirds have also been increas-
ing. — Joe Ford (compiler), Mr. and Mrs. Ramon lies, Mr. and Mrs. L. E.
Wilson.

YELVINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center US
60, approximately 2 miles east of Maceo; largely same territory as in previ-
ous years). — Dec. 30; 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Some rain; temp. 50° to 55°;
wind, 15-20 m.p.h. Seven observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours, 16 (10
on foot, 6 by car). Total party-miles, 43 (8 on foot, 35 by car). Total, 39
species, 907 individuals. (Seen in area count period, but not on count day:
Pileated Woodpecker.)

Due to a rainy and windy day our count was down. Portions of the
Ohio River bottoms from Maceo to Blackford Creek along the River Road
were too muddy to cover. Also, the Blackford Creek bottoms were flooded ;
so we were restricted to the main road. The points of observation along the
Ohio River showed rough water, with white caps.

Mrs. Ray observed the Brown Thrasher in her yard. — Eleanor lies,
Ramon lies, Mildred Powell, A. L. Powell (compiler), George Ray, Mrs.
Marvin Ray, Danny Wells.

MID-WINTER

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

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1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

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12

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

BOWLING GREEN (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center
Three Springs, 6 miles south of Bowling Green). — Dec. 16; 7:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. Clear; temp. 17° to 26°; wind NW, 2-12 m.p.h. Eight observers in
3 parties. Total party-hours, 20 (15 on foot, 5 by car). Total party-miles,
125 (14 on foot. 111 by car). Total, 45 species, 4,650,896 individuals. (Seen
in area count period, but not on count day: Horned Grebe, Pied-billed
Grebe, American Widgeon, Wood Duck, Oldsquaw, Turkey Vulture, Pileated
Woodpecker, Red-headed Woodpecker.

The total species count of 45 is the lowest recorded in the past 12
years. Also, the weather conditions were the most undesirable for the past
12 counts. The most exciting discovery of the day was a Western Grebe at
Grider’s quarry, within the city limits. The bird remained for about two
weeks, and several people had the opportunity to see and identify this un-
usual species. The size of the large roost, which has moved nearer to Bowl-
ing Green this year, was estimated at 4, 650,000 birds and made up of the
following species: Starling, 2,000,000; Common Grackle, 2,000,000, Red-
w'inged Blackbird, 250,000 ; Rusty Blackbird, 200,000 ; and Brown-headed
Cowbird, 200,000. — Hayw'ard Brown, Scott Ford, L. Y. Lancaster, Robert
Pace, Homer Parrent, George Ray, H. E. Shadowen (compiler), Jacky
Shadowen.

MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK (all points w’ithin a 15-mile
diameter circle, center Turnhole Bend Drive-Out). — Dec. 20; 7:00 a.m. to
4:00 p.m. Clear, varying from sunny to overcast; temp. 40° to 50°; wind
(? - none given - Ed.) Six observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours, 31%
(? on foot, ? by car - Ed.) Total party-miles, 98 (19 on foot, 79 by car).
Total, 46 species, 959 individuals.

The 1972 Mammoth Cave Count had good weather, competent birders
and, in comparison with past counts, very few birds. Tbe largest flocks
were those of Dr. Shadowen’s 60 Black Ducks and 24 Evening Grosbeaks,
hence the very low number of 595 individuals. Tbe 46 species listed is
slightly below the average for the park. The most uncommon bird was the
Palm Warbler, which has, however, been found there on at least two prev-
ious Christmas counts. — Mrs. George J. Ellis, Jr., Mrs. James Gillenwater
(compiler), Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Powell, Jr., H. E. Shadowen, Russell Starr.

GLASGOW (all points within a 15-miles diameter circle, center Beech
Grove Baptist Church; same areas as in previous years, but concentrating
on Beaver Creek area, northwest, west, and southwest of Glasgow; Briga-
doon area. South Fork area. Barren River Reservoir ramps, and the “slash”
country; farms and roadsides 45%, woodlands 25%, lake sites 15%, creek
bottoms 15%). — Dec. 31; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Overcast; temp. 45° to
38°; wdnd S, 12-25 m.p.h. Five observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours, 50
(44 on foot, 6 by car). Total party-miles, 62 V2 {WVz on foot, 51 by car).
Total, 58 species, 2760 individuals. (Seen in area count period, but not on
count day: Hooded Merganser, American Coot, Cedar Waxwing, Red-
winged Blackbird.)

The Bald Eagle was an immature and studied at close range on the
Skaggs Creek embayment of the Barren River Reservoir. — Mike and
Nancy Barr, Marquita Gillenwater, Faye Starr, Russell Starr (compiler).

OTTER CREEK PARK (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle,
center 2 miles southwest of park entrance, area as described 1972). — Dec.
22; 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Cloudy, slight mist in early a.m.; temp. 39° to

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

13

39°; wind N, 12 m.p.h. Ponds and river open. Ten observers in 5 parties.
Total party-hours, 35 (23 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles, 103 (26 on
foot, 77 by car). Total, 64 species, 16,598 individuals. (Seen in area count
period, but not on count day: Killdeer, Herring Gull.)

This was our highest species count for the area — 64. The mild fall
may have played a part in the number of birds observed this year. Hawks
were well represented, with a fair count on Red-tailed and Red-shouldered.
Fewer Myrtle Warblers were noted this year. A Catbird was seen at close
range by Ann Norman and George Crabtree. The two Vesper Sparrows
were found by William Rowe and John Westerman. Sue Hall and Mrs. A.
G. Susie reported a Chipping Sparrow in company with Slate-colored
Juncos. The red cap and black bill noted. White-crowned and White-throat-
ed Sparrows as well as Song Sparrows were about the same as last year,
while the Cardinal was down about half. — George Crabtree, Joseph Croft,
Sue Hall, Wilbur Jackson, Ann Norman, William Rowe, Anne L. Stamm
(compiler), F. W. Stamm, Mrs. A. G. Susie, John Westerman.

LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center-
junction of Highways 42 and 22, area as described 1972). — Dec. 17; 5:00
a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Partly cloudy; temp. 7° to 24°; wind light and variable.
Still water frozen, light snow cover on ground. Thirty-six observers in 11
parties. Total party-hours, 75 (39 on foot, 36 by car). Total party-miles,
469 (34 on foot, 435 by car). Total, 85 species, 45,541 individuals. (Seen in
area count period, but not on count day: Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Osprey,
Snowy Owl, Catbird, Ovenbird, Red Crossbill.)

The Ohio River w-as at flood stage, causing scattering of waterfowl
during previous week. A sharp drop in temperature during night before
count froze all open still water, causing departure of some waterfowl lo-
cated on these waters. This was an excellent year for northern birds, with
appearance of Red Crossbills (during week). Goshawk, Evening Grosbeaks,
Sno-wy Owl (during week), and Lapland Longspur, in addition to regular
northern finches. A few normally summer birds may be wintering (Catbird
during week, Ovenbird during week at feeder, and several Brown Thrashers) .
A heron, undoubtedly a Green, flushed along the river by Lawrence Smith,
who was able to note only size and general dark coloration. The Peregrine
Falcon was observed by Mrs. Robertson’s party, well viewed flying along Ohio
River. The Goshawk, an adult, was observed at close range by Anne Stamm
and Joseph Croft. The Vesper and Savannah Sparrows were noted by the
Monroe party at a previously unknown sparrow spot and may be regular
winter visitors. — Leonard C. Brecher, Mrs. Glenn Bryant, A1 Byrd, Mrs.
A. H. Calvert, William Clay, Denny Cornett, George Crabtree, Joseph Croft,
Sue Hall, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Jackson, Joe Knight, Lois Massie, Burt L.
Monroe, Jr. (compiler), Mrs. J. V. Muntan, Catharine Noland, Ann Nor-
man, Nancy Offutt, James Pasikowski, Robert Quaife, Mrs. Charles Robert-
son, Combs Ruhe, Danny Ruhe, William Ruhe, Carl Schultz, Bernice Shan-
non, Bea Short, Mabel Slack, Lawrence Smith, Anne L. Stamm, Frederick
W. Stamm, Chester Sundquist, Mrs. A. G. Susie, Audrey Wright, Mr. and
Mrs. Ray Zollner, (Beckham Bird Club, Louisville Chapter K.O.S.).

DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle
County courthouse). — Dec. 23; 7:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Overcast all day;
temp. 37° to 42°; wind, 0-8 m.p.h. Ground bare, no ice. Twenty-seven ob-
servers in 10 parties. Total party-hours, (? - none given - Ed.) Total party-
miles, (? - none given - Ed.) Total, 50 species, 9,698 individuals. (Seen in

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

area count period, but not on count day: Cooper’s Hawk, Eastern Phoebe,
Bewick’s Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Water Pipit (no details - Ed.),
Pine Siskin.

We have had an unusually poor fall, especially for water birds. In
general, birds were relatively inactive on count day. — W. C. Alcock, Bar-
bara and Fredrick Brown, A1 Byrd, Charlotte Caldwell, Dr. and Mrs. Harry
Caldwell, Jackson Davis, Dena Elliott, Scott Glore, Mrs. Paul Gudgel, Edna
and Frank Heck, Dorothy and West Hill, Mrs. Lavern Hunstad, Mrs.
Arthur Jester, J. W. Kemper, Ross Kreamer, Jane Larson, Frederick and
Naomi Loetscher, Michael Marsh, Mrs. Bowman Myers (compiler), Mrs.
Virgil Reid, Craig and Jane Zimmerman.

FRANKFORT (all points within a 15-miles diameter circle, center at
junction of US 127 and KY 1900, area as described 1972). — Dec. 16; 7:00
a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Clear; temp. 12° to 24°; wind WSW, 19-27 m.p.h. Light
snow cover, ice glaze on vegetation, water open. Fifteen observers in 9
parties. Total party-hours, 42 (29 on foot, 13 by car). Total party-miles,
151 (20 on foot, 13*1 by car). Total, 61 species, 3,282 individuals. (Seen in
area count period, but not on count day: Canvasback, Great Horned Owl.)

Despite the cold and high winds this count set a new record — 61
species, although total individuals were about average. The 61 species is
10 abov'e our 17 year average of 51.

Ducks were well represented though numbers were small. Only the
most common hawks were found and no owls of any kind were noted. All
woodpeckers were represented in spite of the high winds, with Yellow-
bellied Sapsuckers more numerous than usual. Brown Creepers were plenti-
ful and probably many were overlooked.

Cedar berries and other wild fruits are in short supply which may
account for the few Robins and absence of Cedar Waxwings. Pine Siskins
were present in numbers though Purple Finches were widely scattered.
Blackbirds and sparrows seem about av’erage this year. — Marvin Bing,
Reva Ray Caine, William P. Caine, Sr., Douglas Carr, E. J. Carr, Peggy
Sue Derryberry, Mrs. William H. Frymire, William Grayson, Charles
Grayson, Martha Jane Harrod, Howard P. Jones (compiler), Mary Rose
Kautzman, Mary Kathryn Pfouts, Lewis E. Pfouts, Pinkie Mae Richardson.

KLEBER WILDLIFE IMANAGEIMENT AREA (all points within a
15-mile diameter circle, center at junction of US 227 and KY 845 in Owen
County; census conducted principally in the wildlife area itself, but in-
cluded Kentucky River areas near Monterey and Elmer Davis Lake; de-
ciduous w'oods 20%, cedar woods 10%, brushy fields 35%, fields and pas-
tures 25%, and stream bottoms 10%). — Dec. 30; 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Cloudy, rain in afternoon; temp. 52° to 65°; wind S, 22-34 m.p.h. Streams
open. Seven observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours, 18 (14 on foot, 4 by
car). Total party-miles, 85 (9 on foot, 76 by car). Total, 33 species, 562
individuals.

This count was disappointing both from numbers of species as well as
individuals. The weather, with a low moving in, may have accounted for
the quietness to some extent, but not altogether.

No waterbirds were found on Elmer Davis Lake since the lake was 30 to
40 feet below normal as a I’esult of leaks in the dam. The Robins, Purple
Finches, Myrtle Warblers, and Golden-crowned Kinglets, usually present in
numbers in the cedars, were almost totally absent. Few sparrows, with the
exception of Song Sparrows, could be found. — Marvin Bing, William C.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

15

Caroland, James S. Durell, Howard P. Jones (compiler), Mary Rose
Kautzman, Margaret La Fontaine, Pete Lynch.

LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East
Hickman on Tates Creek Pike, to include 23 miles of the Kentucky River,
4 Lexington reservoirs, Nicholasville, University of Kentucky Experimental
Farm; surface water 2%, deciduous woods 3%, towns and suburbs 4%,
pastures, cultivated lands, hedgerows, and farm lots 91%). — Dec. 30; 6:45
a.m. to 5:25 p.m. Overcast, occasional showers; temp. 52° to 65°; wind S,
0-33 m.p.h. Thirty-five observers in 15 parties. Total party-hours, 78 (33 on
foot, 45 by car). Total party-miles, 421 (27 on foot, 394 by car). Total, 74
species, 18,830 individuals. (Seen in area during count period, but not on
count day: Pintail, Blue-winged Teal (no details - Ed.), Common Mer-
ganser, Red-breasted Merganser.

The unusually mild temperature may have contributed to our having
the largest Christmas count — 74 species. Also, more people were counting
birds. The four large lagoons of the new Hickman Creek sewage disposal
plant located on the Ash Grove Pike have attracted eight species of water
birds which formerly were observed more frequently at the Lexington Res-
ervoirs. The House Wren was carefully observed several minutes by Robert
Morris and William Woodward. — Ellen Allen, Mrs. W. R. Allen, Janet
Barclay, Mrs. A. E. Baxter, Mary Burns, Betsy Davis, Brian T. Davis,
Dean Davis, Ruth Davis, Lyda Feck, Michael Flynn, Lewis Francis, Gret-
chen Gibson, Douglas Henderson, Darrell W. Hoskins, Maudie Hurt, Colin
Hyde, Austin Lilly, Betty Maxson, Charles Maxson, Louise Maxson, Bernice
McClure, Robert Morris, Frank Pattie, Richard Ramsdell, Sarah Ramsdell,
Alfred Reece (compiler), Virginia Reece, Joyce Robbins, Barbara Ruff,
Connie Schwein, Ricky Schwein, Conley Webster, James Wood, William
Woodward.

WILLARD (same territory, with little change, since first census made
in 1937; area is through creek bottoms, fields, and woodlands). — Dec. 26;
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Overcast; temp. 38° to 34°; some snow on wet
ground. One observer. Total party-hours, 8 (8 on foot, 0 by car). Total
party-miles, 8 (8 on foot, 0 by car). Total, 23 species, 190 individuals. (Seen
in area count period, but not on count day: Screech Owl, Barred Owl, Cedar
Waxwing) .

The weather may have been a factor in the small number of birds
sighted on my usual eight-mile walk. Although only six Robins were seen
on the census, 50 were seen during the count period. Also, 30 Cedar Wax-
wings were seen during the week. No Evening Grosbeaks have been seen
in Willard, but a sighting of 15 birds at Grayson, in mid-December, has
been reported. — Ercel Kozee (compiler).

16

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

NOTES FROM BELL COUNTY

Ray Harm

Although niy field studies have been limited since living in Bell County,
I have made some observations on waterfowl, which seem worthy to record.

I have a private lake, exactly three acres of surface area, and it is
located between Log Mountain and Pine Mountain off Big Clear Creek near
Chenoa, Kentucky. It is about 20 feet deep on the low side and tapers into
two forks at the tailing. The south edge is mixed pine and deciduous trees
on a rather steep incline supporting my house and a barn some 300 feet
apart. The edges have growth of some cat-tails (Typha latifolia), arrow-
head (Sagittaria latifolia), and sedges (Scirpas pedicellatus and S. validas).
The lake is four years old and has started some grow'th of pondweed
( Potamogeton sp.) and although waterfowl usually feed heavily upon this
plant, I plan controlling it. The house was moved to the edge of the lake
this past fall and, although the barn has stood on its edge since the building
of the lake, I don’t know how much of a deterrent it will be in the lake’s
attracting migrating waterfowl. (However, we had a wild Black Duck
(Anas ruby'ipes) remain the entire winter (1971-72) wdth two domestic
white ducks we keep.)

The lake normally attracts what one would expect: Green Heron
( Butorides virescens) nest successfully each summer in some Virginia pines,
just up the hill from the water’s edge; Belted Kingfishers (Megaceryle
atcyon) are usually fishing the edges; Spotted Sandpipers (Actitis macu-
laria) show up occasionally (mid-July on), while wandering Great Blues
(Ardea herodias) make appearances in the summer, and Osprey’s (Pandion
haliaetus) fish the lake on occasion. I have only seen Common Egrets
(Casmerodius albus) once (mid-August, 1972) and three were present at
that time. As one w'ould expect. Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoe-
nicens) nest each year in bullrushes, and the lake attracts multitudes of
Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) which nest in the barn and under over-
hangs of our house. By the time the young have fledged in July, we often
have notable flocks in continuous flight over the lake dipping into the
water repeatedly. This is enhanced with Purple Martins (Progne sicbis)
doing likewise.

With the absence of natural lakes in east Kentucky and acquatic situ-
ations confined at best to moving streams and some alluvial swampy situa-
tions here and there, the few man-made impoundments should be of interest
to avian reporting because of their attraction to migratory waterfowl over
mountainous areas. Such impoundments quite possibly may turn up species
not heretofore expected or recorded in the area. The Canvasback ( Aythya
valisinei'ia) , for example, was a surprise to me on such a tiny lake as was
a Whistling Swan (Olor colnmbianns) that we recorded one foggy spring
morning on March 8, 1971. A female Canvasback was also noted on March
24, 1970. Other sightings equally as surprising include the following: Green-
winged Teal (Anas caroluiensis), two male birds, March 11, 1970; American
Widgeon (Mareca amcricana), two male birds, March 3, 1969; Redhead
(Aythya americana) (18 both sexes) on March 3, 1969; Common Goldeneye
(Encephala clangula) (three male, one female) on March 15, 1970, and one
on November 23, 1972; Bufflehead (B. albeola), a female on March 11,

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

17

1970, and a pair on November 23, 1972. Although our own little lake to date
has been shy of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) they turn up with some
regularity at the Chenoa Lake about a mile east of us as do Ring-necked
Ducks (Aythya collaris) and Lesser Scaups (A. affinis). Great Blue Herons
are commonly known among the local mountain people along Big Clear Creek
here, as are our Wood Ducks (Aix sponsa) and “diedappers.” Although the
Lesser Scaup and Ring-necked Ducks come with some regularity, along
with American Coots (Fidica americana) and Pied-billed Grebes (Podi-
lymhus podiceps), I didn’t expect to find the Redhead and Goldeneye. We
also get Ruddy Ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis) and Blue-winged Teal (Anas
discors), especially the latter species.

It may be well to mention that four immature Ring-billed Gulls (Larus
delawarensis) were seen at the lake, junction Highway 25E and entrance to
Pine Mountain State Park, April 2, 1970. Also, a Bonaparte’s Gull (L. Phil-
adelphia) was recorded at my private lake, November 23, 1972.

In view of the fact that Robert M. Mengel in his Birds of Kentucky
(1965) states that the American Widgeon, Redhead, Canvasback, Goldeneye,
and Bufflehead have not been recorded from the Cumberland Plateau, these
observations may be of some significance.

— Chenoa, Kentucky 40925

BUFFLEHEADS AND COMMON GOLDENEYE

Reproduction (polaroid shot) of an original Ray Harm field drawing,
from life, in water-color, of the birds that appeared at his lake, N ovemher
’23, 1972.

18

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

SHOREBIRDS OBSERVED NEAR HAWESVILLE,
HANCOCK COUNTY, KENTUCKY

Fred J. Alsop, III

The recent industrialization of Hancock County’s bottomlands border-
ing the Ohio River has created some attractive feeding and resting habitat
for herons, waterfowl, and shorebirds. Perhaps the best of these are the
large settling basins at the Western Kraft paper mill in the Skillman
Bottoms west of Hawesville, Kentucky. Here a squarish six to ten acre basin
has been constructed in the flat flood plain. The basin is surrounded by a
dike with a road on top providing an easy means for birding in the basin
as well as an excellent vantage point for observations of the surrounding
lowlands. The large basin is bisected by a levee road dividing it north to
south. The eastern basin thus created by the central dike has several short
levees extending at right angles into the body of water from the bordering
dikes. These rise approximately 18 inches above the surface of the water
and are almost devoid of vegetation. It was on the latter that most of the
following observations were made.

My initial visit to the basins on September 7, 1972, with Oswaldo Roig
and Fred J. Alsop, Jr., produced nine species of shorebirds feeding and
resting on the short dikes (see the table). The three of us returned to the
basins on September 10 and recorded 13 species of shorebirds on the levees,
and a final check by me on September 14 located seven species.

Thirteen of the 15 species observed during the three visits to the
basins had not been recorded previously in Hancock County (Alsop, Ky.
Warhler, 47:59-70, 1971). Of these the Piping Plover, White-rumped Sand-
piper, Baird’s Sandpiper, and Dunlin are listed as rare in the state by
Mengel {The Birds of Kentucky , 1965) and Monroe {Ky. Warhler, 45:47-
56, 1969). The Dunlins on September 10 are four days earlier than Monroe’s
(1969) extreme fall record of September 14. The Western Sandpiper, Stilt
Sandpiper, and the Sanderling are given a status of rare (Mengel, 1965)
to uncommon (Monroe, 1969) in Kentucky.

There seemed to be little urgency exhibited by the birds to push south-
ward as the numbers of some of the individuals, with the exception of the
Killdeers, remained the same during two or more of my visits. The two

Shorebirds Observed at Western Kraft’s Settling Basins,
Hancock County, Kentucky

Species

SEMIPALMATED PLOVER Charadrius semipalmatus

PIPING PLOVER C. melodus

KILLDEER C. vociferus

SPOTTED SANDPIPER Actitis macularia

SOLITARY SANDPIPER Tringa solitaria

LESSER YBLLOWLEGS Totanus flavipes

PECTORAL SANDPIPER Erolia melanotos

WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER E. fuscicollis

BAIRD'S SANDPIPER E. bairdii

LEAST SANDPIPER E. minutilla

DUNLIN E. alpina

STILT SANDPIPER Micropalama himantopus
SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER Ereunetes pusillus
WESTERN SANDPIPER Ereunetes mauri
SANDERLING Crocethia alba

6 p.m.
Sept. 7
2

18

2

2

3

4

9

5

2

6 p.m.
Sept. 10
3

12

1

2

1

2

2

7

8
1

15

1

2

10 a.m.
Sept. 14

1

20

1

2

5

8

10

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

19

Sanderlings seen on September 7 and again on the tenth were most likely
the same birds, and a study of the table would indicate the same to be true
of the Dunlins and several other species.

On each occasion the birds were easily approached and each individual
was checked with 7x35 binoculars and a 15 to 60X zoom spotting scope at
ranges varying from 150 to 35 feet. I feel the identifications were as ac-
curate as was possible without having the birds in hand. I have seen all the
species listed in the table in the field and had photographed six of them
including the Baird’s, White-rumped, and Stilt Sandpipers two months prior
to these sightings on their breeding grounds in the Arctic (this is men-
tioned only because of the rare status in Kentucky of several of the species
observed) .

Several factors, alone or in combination, might explain the presence
of this variety of species and number of individuals during the ’eight day
period of observation: 1) the extremely poor nesting conditions in the
Arctic this summer resulting in many species summering south of their
normal breeding grounds; 2) the cold fronts with northerly winds which
passed through Kentucky during the period of observation; or 3) the newly
created feeding and resting shorebird habitat of the settling basins adjacent
to the Ohio River, which many birds may follow in their migrations.

In addition to the shorebirds, 11 Wood Ducks (Aix sponsa) and a pair
of Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors) were present in the basins on Septem-
ber 7; seven Wood Ducks were there on September 10; and 17 Blue-winged
Teal were seen during the check of the area on September 14.

— East Tennessee State University, Kingsport, Tennessee 37660.

(Ed. note: We are pleased to have these records since very little has
hitherto been recorded in print on the shorebirds of this area. Although
MengeTs book was published in 1965, his field work was completed in 1952.
In the intervening 20 years the development of competent observers has
brought to light the existence of many species in areas which Mengel alone
could not cover, e.g.. Western, Baird’s, and Stilt Sandpipers as well as Dun-
lin and Sanderlings are observed each autumn at the Falls of the Ohio,
Louisville, so are no longer considered “rare in the state.”)

FIELD NOTES

A SIGHT RECORD OF THE WESTERN GREBE

On November 1, 1972, I was looking over the waterfowl that swam
about on the Ohio River, east of the Pennsylvania Railroad Bridge on the
Indiana side. Suddenly I saw a large bird that sat high and erect on the
water. Its neck was white and long; the top of the head, back of neck, and
back were rather dark, with white underparts. The bird was much larger
than a Horned Grebe (Podiceps auritus) which was seen nearby and made
an interesting comparison. Also, the bill was much longer. The bird was
identified as a Western Grebe ( Aechrnophorus occklentalis). A “bird alert”
was put into motion and within a short period of time a number of other
Beckham Bird Club members had an opportunity to observe this unexpected
western species. The grebe was last seen in the late afternoon of Novem-
ber 2. — Mrs. C. A. ROBERTSON, River Hill Road, Louisville 40207.

20

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

NEWS AND VIEWS

RED CROSSBILLS INVADE KENTUCKY

Apparently this is a flight year (winter 1972-73) for the erratic Red
Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) since a number of records have come to the
editor’s attention. The first report came from Ann Bowne of Owensboro,
Kentucky. She saw two male and five female or immature birds on No-
vember 5, 1972, in Cloverport, Breckenridge County. Walter Sikora re-
ported 20 to 25 birds feeding on pine cones in Red River Gorge (Wolfe
County) on November 11. Jon Rickert, Elizabethtown, called to say he had

found 10-12 of this species at Bern-
heim Forest, Bullitt County, December
3. A group of birds, approximately
the same number, were still there on
January 25 and observed by Dr. and
Mrs. Kenneth P. McConnell. Two to
six Red Crossbills appeared occasion-
ally at the bird feeder at the Dr.
Herbert Clay residence, in Louisville,
between January 7 and January 16,
1973. The accompanying photograph,
made from a color transparency, was
taken by Dr. Clay. During the week
of December 17 one bird was seen by
Dr. Burt L. Monroe, Jr., in Anchor-
age. It is quite possible that the Red
Crossbills arrived in Kentucky in Oc-
tober (1972) since four finches flew
over head in Bernheim Forest on
October 22 when the Beckham Bird
Club (Louisville Chapter K.O.S.)
Red Crossbill at Bird Bath conducted a field trip there. Dr. Mon-
Photo by Dr. Herbert Clay deader of the group, said at the

time that he felt the birds were
crossbills judging by their notes, but
they were not seen well enough to clearly identify. The editor welcomes
hearing of other sightings of this species.

KOS ANNIVERSARY

The fiftieth annual Spring Meeting (50th anniversary) will be held
May 11 to 13, 1973, in Louisville. This city was the site of the founding.
Plans are in the making for a great weekend; so plan now to attend this
historical event.

FALL MEETING

It has been necessary to change the date and place of our Fall Meet-
ing because of previous reservations. The meeting is now planned for Sep-
tember 28-30, 1973, at Kenlake State Resort Park. This will be a joint
meeting with the Kentucky Department of Parks. Warbler migration should
be in full swing. Mark your calendar now!

The Kentucky Warbler

(Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society)

Vol. 49

MAY, 1973

No. 2

KENTUCKY WA^RBLERS AT THE NEST

KOS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY
THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY, 1923-1973,

Evelyn Schneider 23

A SALUTE TO THE KOS, Albert F. Ganier 36

FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY MEETING, May 11-13, 1973,

Sister Casimir Czurles 37

WOODCOCK NESTING RECORDS, Lee K. Nelson 43

FIELD NOTES 44

BOOK REVIEW: KENTUCKY BIRDS, A FINDING GUIDE,

by Roger W. Barbour et al. (Reviewed by Frederick W. Loetscher, Jr.) 46
NEWS AND VIEWS 48

22

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson

President Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Louisville

Vice-President A. L. Whitt, Jr., Richmond

Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Mary Louise Daubard

616 Rudy Lane, Louisville 40207

Recording Secretary Sister Casimir Czurles, Owensboro

Councillors :

Albert Pow^ell, Maceo 1971-1973

Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green 1971-1973

Ramon R. lies, Owensboro 1972-1974

Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1972-1974

Retiring President Ray Nall, Murray

Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville

Staff Artist Ray Harm, Chenoa

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Organ of the Keyitucky Ornithological Society. Published quarterly in
February, May, August, and November. The KENTUCKY WARBLER is
sent to all members not in arrears for dues. Membership dues are: Active
or Regular, $3.00; Contributing, $5.00; Student, $2.00; Life, $50.00; Family,
$1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues. All
articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscrip-
dons, memberships, and requests for back issues should be sent to the
creasurer.

Editor Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm, 9101 Spokane Way,

Louisville 40222

Assistant Editor Joseph E. Croft, 2366 Gladstone Avenue,

Louisville 40205

Editorial Advisory Board

Roger W. Barbour Leonard C. Brecher

Herbert E. Shadowen

OUR COVER

We are indebted to Karl Maslowski for the cover picture of the Ken-
tucky Warbler. His photograph — its subject matter particularly appropri-
ate to this journal — is a rare triumph of patience in catching both parent
birds at the nest at the same moment.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

23

THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY
1923-1973*

Evklyn J. Schneider

For the beginnings and the early years of the Kentucky Ornithological
Society we must refer to the accounts of Dr. Gordon Wilson, one of the
three founders and one to whom the Society became a significant part of
his life.

For several years Dr. Wilson had known Mr. Alfred F. Ganier of
Nashville, Tennessee, a nationally recognized ornithologist who was sec-
retary of the Wilson Ornithological Club (1918-1922) and later served as its
president (1924-1927). Upon Mr. Ganier’s urging the promotion of a state
ornithological society in Kentucky, Dr. L. Otley Pindar of Versailles, Ken-
tucky, Brasher C. Bacon of Madisonville, and Gordon Wilson of Bowling
Green agreed to meet in Louisville in April, 1923, during the annual meeting
of the Kentucky Education Association, for which teachers and others
connected with the public schools in the state came each year. These
gentlemen formulated ambitious plans for the proposed society, adopted a
constitution which Mr. Bacon had outlined, and since there were only three
of them proceeded to elect themselves to the three essential offices: Dr.
Pindar, President; Mr. Bacon, Vice-President; and Dr. Wilson, Secretary-
Treasurer. They agreed that the next meeting would be held in Louisville
the following spring, again in connection with the KEA.

The purposes of the organization as stated by Dr. Wilson at the
beginning still remain fundamental, although they were somewhat ex-
panded in more recent years.

After their discussion. Dr. Wilson, on meeting a young reporter in the
hotel lobby who was eager for news, “fairly overwhelmed him with plans
for the society which had drawn its first breath only a few minutes before.”
The account in the Courier-Journal the next morning induced Miss Emilie
Yunker, school garden and nature study director of the Louisville Public
Schools, to send her dues immediately. Thus she became the first new mem-
ber and remained an ardent supporter to the end of her long and active
life. Very quickly Miss Yunker set out to interest others in the new
organization and was responsible for bringing in a number of members
from Louisville. Miss Yunker died in December, 1940, after fifty-six years
of service to the public schools.

Among the very early KOS members, three merit particular mention
today. Naturally, in fifty years some have been lost by death, including
the three founders, and a few dropped by the wayside. But these three have
been continuous and active members to the present time:

1. Mr. Albert F. Ganier, to whom Dr. Wilson often referred as the
godfather of the Society and who was designated an Honorary Member,
apparently at the very outset, has continued to be a loyal and beloved
friend, supporter, and adviser through all the years. He has attended many
of our meetings, has been the main speaker on numerous occasions, and
has been a constant inspiration to us all. Through him a number of us
have enjoyed the annual meetings of the Tennessee Ornithological Society
as well as the unforgettable field weeks in various areas of their state.

•(Read at KOS 50th Anniversary Meeting, May 11, 1973. Louisville, Kentucky.)

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

2. Dr. L. Y'. Lancaster, then on the faculty of Western State Normal
School in Bowling Green, “came into the Society so early,” Dr Wilson
wrote, “that he almost could be regarded as one of the founders.” Today
Dr. Lancaster is the sole active Kentucky KOS member from that early
day. Always an avid outdoorsman, he was not only one of the most active
members from the beginning, participating in the programs, banding birds,
recording his observations, contributing to the Kentucky Warbler, but his
interest has never diminished. We shall always remember with greatest
pleasure our visits with him and Mrs. Lancaster at their cabins near the
mouth of the Caspar River.

3. Mr. Oscar McKinley Bryens is first listed as a member in the
January, 1926, issue of the Kentucky Warbler, which also contains his 1925
Christmas list, the first of a continuous succession to be published. Mr.
Bryens has made the long trip from his home in Michigan to be with us
at every fall meeting for many years. We have valued his companionship
in the field or on a rainy afternoon indoors, have marv'eled at his keen
sight and hearing, and even more at his meticulous and comprehensive
records.

Also mentioned by Dr. Wilson as other early members are Dr. T.
Atchison Frazer of Marion, Kentucky, whom many of us remember with
deep affection and esteem as “the grand old man” of the Society, and Ben
J. Blincoe, then of Bardstown, known especially for his valuable paper,
“Birds of Bardstown, Nelson County, Kentucky.” Although Dr. Frazer, one
of the first Life Members, is no longer with us, his son, Chastain L. Frazer,
whose name is included with his father’s on Christmas lists as early as
1926, also soon became a Life Member; he and his son, Jim Frazer, are
currently active members, our only three-generation family. Mr. Blincoe,
who had already moved to Dayton, Ohio, read his paper at the first KOS
Spring Meeting. Published later in the Auk, the publication of the American
Ornithologists’ Union, it has been preserved as an important contribution to
early Kentucky ornithology’. In 1952 Mr. Blincoe attended the KOS Fall
Meeting, his first visit since 1924.

Of the three founders, “only a few of us ever knew Dr. L. Otley
Pindar,” Dr. Wilson wrote. “When the Society was formed, he was already
in very bad health and steadily grew worse until he became an invalid. He
died in 1936, leaving some $300.00 as an endowment for the society that
he helped found.”

Brasher C. Bacon, who served as KOS president for five years (1934-
1938), is well remembered by many of its present members. He was host
to the KOS at three fall meetings in Madisonville — 1933, 1934, and 1951.
Long a proponent of conservation and a pioneer in establishing sanctuaries
in his part of the state, he had a persistent interest in every phase of
protecting and preserving all wildlife. Before his death in 1959, he had
arranged to leave his large collection of nests and eggs to the Kentucky
Building at Western Kentucky State College, the alma mater of his two sons.

Any history of the KOS could easily devote a disproportionate amount
of space to Dr. Gordon Wilson, who might be termed the father of the
Society — a loving, protective, hard working, indulgent parent — whom
most of us knew so well. However, the resolution adopted by the Society
shortly after his death in 1970 and the later memorial article, both of
which appear in the Kentucky Warbler, reflect the real worth of the man
and the high regard in which he was held.

Soon after the founding of the KOS, Gordon Wilson asked for affilia-

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

25

tion with the Wilson Ornithological Club — now Society instead of Club —
a national organization named for the early Scottish-born American orni-
thologist, Alexander Wilson. Thus the KOS became its fourth affiliated
group. At that time there were not many state societies. The Tennessee
Society, orgnized in 1915, and the KOS were the two pioneer state organi-
zations in the South; less than half a dozen others existed in the entire
country, according to Mr. Ganier.

Although KOS dues were fifty cents annually — twenty-five cents
for students — members could pay affiliate dues of two dollars, which
included membership in the Wilson Club and receipt of its quarterly
Bulletin. Since Dr. Wilson, as secretary of the Wilson Club (1923-
1925), edited the section of the Bulletin called “Notes Here and There,”
he lost no opportunity to include mention of the KOS and its members. For
example, in the June, 1925, issue he states, “Numerous queries have come
to the Secretary as to the official positions occupied by our members.
Beginning with this issue the Secretary will devote some space to introduc-
tions. For modesty’s sake we shall begin at home.” And heading the list
is Kentucky, the newest affiliate, with personal information concerning
twenty members from the state.

By the time of the first regular meeting in April, 1924, according to
Dr. Wilson, “there was quite a respectable number of members, and the
packed room in the Seelbach Hotel was highly gratifying.” The varied
program would lend credit to an organization with far more experience
and sophistication than our society could have claimed in its first year.
These spring meetings in Louisville with the KEA continued for nearly
thirty years, through 1955, with the exception of three war years, 1943-
1945, when meetings of many organizations were cancelled. The Executive
Secretary of the KEA felt that the Society had much to offer the teachers
of the state in broadening their interests and knowledge, so not only was
our meeting room procured for us, but for a number of years the KEA
contributed toward the expense of bringing an outside speaker of our own
choice. In addition to talks and papers given, chiefly by our own members,
exhibits were often displayed in the meeting room, and usually a group of
school children, carefully trained, demonstrated some phase of bird study.
An early morning field trip was arranged for the hardier souls, and several
years later a luncheon meeting for members added sociability and sometimes
provided the time to conduct a bit of necessary business.

Change, however, is inevitable. With the growth of the KEA, and
possibly a change in perspective, that organization found it could no longer
sponsor the several societies — there were others besides the KOS — which
were not actually connected with it. So at Dr. Wilson’s suggestion, it was
decided to hold the 1956 meeting in Bowling Green, where a number of us
had enjoyed annual visits with him to the wet-weather lakes south of the
city which attract great numbers of water and shore birds. For many
years a study of these transient lakes had been a project of Dr. Wilson’s,
and he felt that we could help continue this study. This “field study pro-
gram” proved so successful that we have continued to meet there in the
spring of each year, with only two exceptions: In 1971, for a joint meeting
with the Tennessee Ornithological Society, we went to Mammoth Cave
National Park, and in this historic year of 1973 we have returned to the
city of our birth, Louisville.

The first Fall Meeting, November 28-30, 1924, was held not in Bowling
Green as originally announced, but jointly with the Wilson Ornithological

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

Club, the Tennessee Ornithological Society, and the Tennessee Academy of
Science in Nashville. Six Kentucky members attended, “and,” wrote Dr.
Wilson, “got our first look-in on a large national science group.” All six
appear in the group photograph published in the Wilson Bulletin with the
proceedings of the meeting (Wilsoyi Bulletin, 37:52, 1925).

The following October, 1925, the KOS did meet in Bowling Green,
beginning the series of annual fall meetings in various parts of the state
which have continued to the present day with the exception of two war
years, 1943 and 1944. For about the first ten years the Society carried out
its policy of interesting children and their parents in bird study and the
preservation of wildlife by giving talks in each locality at neighboring
schools. According to Dr. Wilson, “In the (first) five fall meetings we
have reached more than six thousand school children.”

The Fall Meeting soon came to be designated the Annual Meeting, at
which elections are held and the chief business matters are handled.

Probably the most important function of the Society, in addition to
the regular meetings, is its quarterly publication. Named for the only bird
which bears the name of our state, a species discovered by Alexander
Wilson in 1810 near Lexington, the Kentucky Warbler first came off the
press with the January, 1925, issue under the editorship of Dr. Wilson.
The four-page leaflet was to record the proceedings of the Society, publish
notes and news of interest, field notes, and such papers as fitted within its
scope. A very informal little paper, its opening word in that first issue was
“Howdy!”. How typical of Gordon Wilson, one of the most genuinely
friendly and outgoing persons ever knowm!

Not until the end of 1934, the tenth year, w'as the number of pages
increased; in 1935 each issue was doubled to eight pages. In the early
thirties new contributors began to appear, bringing more field notes and
bird lists. A number of them were already experienced “birders” who had
been accustomed to followung their hobby alone, occasionally in pairs.
Armed only wdth the little Reed Bird Guides — Peterson’s had not been
published then — and poor or no field glasses, they enjoyed their solitary
discoveries. Some later became authorities on the bird life of the state.
The organization of the Louisville Chapter, the Beckham Bird Club, in
January, 1935, and the formation of the Pindar Chapter at Madisonville
and the Audubon Chapter in Henderson in the fall of 1937 provided new
members, much interest, and longer articles for the Kentucky Warbler. The
Glasgow Bird Club followed in 1940, the Paris Bird Club in 1955, and the
Frankfort Chapter in 1956. The Owensboro group, organized in February,
1967, remains one of the most active.

During the comparatively short-term editorship of Burt L. Monroe, Sr.,
the Kentucky Warbler blossomed in 1938 in a colorful cover with a beauti-
fully detailed and artistic drawing by Mr. Ganier of a Kentucky Warbler
at its nest. The inclusion of photographs a few years later and the four-
year index beginning in 1948 added to its value. Due to increased costs of
paper and. printing, however, the cover was discontinued, temporarily, it
was hoped, after fifteen years (1953). The subsequent format, with a
photograph and contents on the cover page and a list of the current officers
with information about the society on the verso, proved both pleasing and
practical.

Today the journal is mailed, in addition to members, to thirty libraries,
colleges, and schools which are paid subscribers and to thirty-two state
and national societies with whom an exchange of publications is maintained.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

27

A number of libraries as well as several individuals have purchased as
nearly complete back files as we could furnish them.

The editorship of the Kentucky Warbler during its forty-nine years of
existence has been held by only four persons. Dr. Wilson served in this
capacity for almost thirty years, being relieved for two years (1937-1938)
by Burt L. Monroe, Sr., and later by Dr. Harvey B. Lovell for eight years
(1946-1953). The present editor, Mrs. F. W. Stamm, had been Associate
Editor and then Co-Editor with Dr. Wilson for six years (1958-1963),
sometimes with full responsibility, when Dr. Wilson asked to be relieved
entirely in order to do some writing in his second field of interest, Ken-
tucky folklore. Mrs. Stamm, during her tenure, has brought acclaim to
herself, to the Kentucky Warbler, and to the Society.

The journal has become, according to Mr. Ganier, “the repository of
an immense amount of information on the birds of Kentucky, its pages being
the foundation upon which must rest any future history of the birds of the
state.”

It has included from the beginning the Mid-Winter Bird Counts taken
by members. A comparison of those of the earlier years, called Christmas
Census then, when as few as four persons individually recorded a modest
number of species, with the extensive tabulations of observations by over
two hundred participants in 1972 covering wide areas of the state, is in
itself an indication of the development of the Society. These lists are also
included among those from all over the country by the National Audubon
Society in its publication, American Birds, which summarizes the status,
movements, and distribution of North American avifauna.

Since 1945 the spring lists taken on a day during the spring migration
period have also been included in the Society’s journal.

In more recent years, beginning in 1961, in cooperation with the
Mississippi Valley Bald Eagle Survey, the KOS has sponsored the One-
Day Bald Eagle Count on a specified day in February. Mrs. Stamm, who
initiated and has coordinated this project in Kentucky since its beginning,
compiles the results and forwards a copy to the chairman of the Survey.
They are also published in the Kentucky Warbler. It is encourging to learn,
for example, that although the 1972 Kentucky count was less than that
of the previous year, the highest in eleven years, the total number of birds
reported from the several states showed a fifty per cent increase over the
year before. Again, our members are contributing to an important study.

KOS members have participated since 1965 in the nationwide North
American Nest-Record Card Program in cooperation with the Laboratory
of Ornithology, Cornell University. This study, designed to collect specific
data on the breeding biology of birds, involves recording the contents of
each nest studied with dated notations for all visits during the incubation
period. It is hoped, too, that the program “will play a key role in the study
of man’s modification of his environment through drainage, urbanization,
and the use of pesticides.”

Members have also collaborated since 1966 with the cooperative Breed-
ing Bird Survey of Eastern North America conducted through the Federal
Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife. Under the leadership of Burt L.
Monroe, Jr., Kentucky continues to be one of the best covered states.

KOS members in Louisville and Murray took part over a period of
several years (1948-1952) in the count of birds in nocturnal flight in both
spring and fall as seen across the full moon through telescopes. Mr.
Charles Strull of Louisville, an able astronomer and a member of the KOS,

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

Editors of The Kentucky Warbler for the first half century.

Gordon Wilson
1925-1936; 1 939-1 9U;
195Jt-1959; 1960-1963 Co-Editor

Harvey B. Lovell
19Jf6-1953

Burt L. Monroe, Sr_
1937-1938

Anne L. Stamm (Mrs. F. W.J
1958-1959 Associate Editor;
1960-1963 Co-Editor;
1963-1973 Editor

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

29

supervised the project. The information from numerous stations over the
country was the subject of a study by Dr. George R. Lowery of Louisiana
State University, published under the title, “A Quantitative Study of the
Nocturnal Migration of Birds.”

Upon advice that the Society should become incorporated because of
the probability of owning properties and for the protection of members
against liability, necessary steps were taken to initiate this procedure.
New bylaws were drawm as required, and when all legal papers were
properly executed and signed, the official name became Kentucky Ornitho-
logical Society, Incorporated. The Society is also registered in the U.S.
Treasury Department as a tax-exempt scientific and educational non-profit
organization.

The holdings of the Society include two invested funds, one of which
is the Endowment Fund, initiated with the bequest of Dr. Pindar, and
augmented by all payments for Life Membership.

Because of a desire among members to honor Dr. Gordon Wilson dur-
ing his lifetime in appreciation of his long and devoted service to the
Society, a committee was appointed to consider appropriate means for doing
so. At its meeting in the fall of 1958, the Society accepted unanimously
the carefully considered recommendations of the committee; To establish
a fund to be known as the Gordon Wilson Fund for Ornithology, the income
of which is to be used for certain specified purposes which were listed in
the Kentucky Warbler, Vol. 64:59, 1958. Contributions by members and
friends have aided its growth each year.

The Society published in 1949 “A Bibliography of Kentucky Ornithol-
ogy,” compiled and annotated by Harvey B. Lovell and Mabel Slack. Pre-
ceding the bibliography itself is a “Brief History of Kentucky Orni-
thology.”

Reprints of the article in the May, 1961, issue of the Kentucky Warbler,
“Birds of the Louisville Region,” compiled by Burt L. Monroe, Sr., and
Burt L. Monroe, Jr., were issued because of its value as a guide and refer-
ence work. The “Summary of Occurrence of Birds in Kentucky,” a project
of the KOS, and compiled by Burt L. Monroe, Jr., published in the Kentucky
Warbler of August, 1969, was issued as a separate pamphlet for the same
reason.

The field cards, which are a checklist of Kentucky birds, also published
by the Society, have undergone revision as needed, and a supply is always
kept in stock for sale to members.

The KOS has voiced its opinions or protests or otherwise taken action
regarding conservational and environmental issues when considered desir-
able or necessary. As a member of Kentuckians for Environmental Planning
and of The Nature Conservancy, it has made modest contributions to the
work of these organizations.

One event that stands out in the memories of those who helped plan it
is the time the KOS was host to the Wilson Ornithological Club in Louisville
for its annual meeting in November, 1939, its first in Kentucky. The
“Proceedings of the Meeting,” published in the Wilsoyi Bulletin of March,
1940, includes the following comments:

“An excellent Bird Photograph Exhibit, arranged in the South Room
on the mezzanine floor of the Brown Hotel, displayed camera work by
members of the Wilson Ornithological Club.” And a list of thirty-four
members whose work was shown includes three from Louisville.

“The Bird Photograph Exhibit was officially opened on Friday evening

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

by a reception given by the Kentucky Ornithological Society and the
Beckham Bird Club. Entertainment was ‘in good Southern style’!” That
was as it was meant to be — refreshments included mint juleps (over the
protest of some of our members), and an excellent Negro foursome provided
the music.

‘‘The Annual Dinner was a notable occasion in the history of the Club,
for at this event the membership reached one thousand, a number long
hoped for.” The speaker at the dinner was none other than our guest this
year, Karl Maslowski of Cincinnati, Ohio, who showed his beautiful natural
color film, “Nature’s Children.”

“On Sunday four motor trips were made to points of interest in Ken-
tucky, the transportation being provided for all members.

“Registration shows that members came from as far aw’ay as Ottawa
and London, Ontario, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Altogether fifteen
states and the District of Columbia were represented.”

So perhaps the KOS did not do too badly in those days.

This account, from the founding, through the early years, with a
glimpse of more current activities, and back to reminiscing, should include
mention of some of those who have made significant contributions to
Kentucky ornithology besides those already named.

Burt L. Monroe, Sr., was one of those recognized by the national
societies for his extensive studies and records not only of the Louisville
region but over the state as well. He worked closely with the League of
Kentucky Sportsmen and the Department of Game and Fish; the latter
designated him State Ornithologist, an advisory office. He was elected to
the Executive Council of the Wilson Ornithological Society and held various
offices culminating in the presidency. The first Kentuckian to be honored
by elective membership in that august body, the American Ornithologists’
Union, he served as its treasurer form 1966 to the time of his death in 1968.

Robert M. Mengel, a Life Member of the KOS, now of Lawrence,
Kansas, grew up in Louisville. Having done much of his work with Burt
Monroe, Sr., he became the author of "The Birds of Kentucky,’’ published by
the AOU in 1965, one of the most comprehensive and scholarly works of
its kind — a book that every Kentuckian who does any serious work in the
field of bird study needs to own.

Burt L. Monroe, Jr., our present president, who collaborated with his
father in much of their work, and is no doubt the foremost professional
ornithologist in the state today, with woidd-wide experience, ranks with
the top scientists of the country. Also an elected member of the AOU, he
has been its treasurer since 1968.

James W. Hancock of Madisonville has done valuable scientific report-
ing of his observations in Hopkins County. Joseph Croft and Haven Wiley
have published scholarly articles of importance. Howard Jones, Frankfort;
Herbert E. Shadow'en, Bowling Green; Clell Peterson, Murray; A. L.
Powell, Owensboro; Anne L. Stamm, Louisville; Leonard Brecher, Louis-
ville; A. L. Whitt, Richmond, have all been faithful in reporting the results
of their studies.

In fact, every one who makes available unusual sightings and dis-
coveries, adds to the total knowledge of Kentucky ornithology. If those
who are making investigations and studies today can inspire in others the
conviction and will to carry on, the next fifty years of the Society is
assured.

— 2525 Broadmade Avenue, Louisville 40205.

1

KOS and TOS 1936 Fall Meetmg
Cheeks Tavern, South of Franklin, Kentucky

The two men in front are, left to right. Brasher C. Bacon, Madisonville,
and Gordon Wilsoyi, Bowling Green, both KOS founders. In the second row
are, from left, Dixon Merritt, George Mayfield, O. C. Webb, and Albert F.
Ganier, all of Nashville, Tennessee, and founders of TOS.

1935 KOS Meeting, Mammoth Cave National Park

Top row, left to right: Amy Deane, Evelyn Schneider, .Jerry Longest,
Burt L. Monroe, Sr., Dr. George R. Mayfield, Nashville, Tennessee, Dr. L.
y. Lancaster, Dr. Gordon Wilson, founder; J. D. Shain, Mrs. -I. D. Shain,
Amy Longest. Front row, left to right: B. C. Bacon, founder; Dr. T. A.
Frazer, Mrs. Burt L. Monroe, Sr., Helen Peil, Emilie Yunker, Mrs. B. C.
Bacon, Mabel Slack, Mrs. Curry, Mrs, Dorthy Hobson, Albert F. Ganier,
Nashville. (Eight of the above are still with the Society; the other are now
deceased.)

Some of the earli/ presidents of the Kentnekp Ornithological Society. They are, from left to right, Leonard
C. Brecher, 1950-51; Evelyn Schneider, 1940-41; Gordon Wilson, 1925-29; 1940-47; Brasher C. Bacon, 1994-38;
Mary Lou Cypert, 1949; Harvey B. Lovell, 1942-44; Mahcl Slack, 1948. Photo taken October 14, 1951, Madison-
ville, Kentucky.

Breakfast at Locust Grove — May 13, 1973

the breakfast; Burt L. Monroe, Jr., president of KOS.

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Vol. 49

A SALUTE TO THE KOS

Albert F. Ganier

A fiftieth anniversary is really a remarkable milestone for any non-
profit organization when one considers how many scores of other well-
meaning groups have risen w'ith enthusiasm, but have fallen by the wayside.
The continuity of the KOS springs from many worthwhile rew'ards
that come to its members, none of which may be assigned to political ad-
vancement, social prestige or mercenary reward.

First and foremost is the natural attraction of nature, the most re-
warding of which is its division of birdlife. The opportunity to enjoy such
outdoor studies and recreation with congenial companions; the placing of
the highlights of our finds and experiences in the pages of The Kentucky
Warbler for the pleasure of fellow members; the kindling of interest in
the minds of new members and sustaining this interest through the years
that follow; and, by no means last, the opportunity to explore the many
and interesting features of Kentucky and with this first-hand information
and contact, to become an ardent advocate of the preservation and conser-
vation of the state’s natural heritage are other satisfactory rewards. Be
not afraid to speak out, for it is your informed and seasoned voice, along
with less experienced conservation organizations, that will be needed to
prevent exploitation of many distinctive areas and the wildlife that is a
treasured part of it.

With due apologies for ancient history, I must admit that I was stung
early by the “bird-bug,” my notebooks beginning in the mid-nineties, and by
1902 I had written a half-dozen articles on southern birds for the minor
bird magazines of that period. In 1915, I organized the Tennessee Orni-
thological Society, and in 1917 was requested to accept the secretaryship
of the mid-regional Wilson Ornithological Club, barely breathing and in
debt for lack of a secretary. In this seiwice, I “burned the midnight oil”
for five years, then served as president for three more. I had induced my
new-made friend, Gordon Wilson of Bowling Green, to take on my WOC
secretaryship and it brought him wide experience.

During my Wilson Club service I became acutely aware of the fact
that the South was losing a lot by being off-center from current orni-
thological activity and resolved that I would do all I could to organize
state societies in each of these states, to affiliate with the WOC. Ken-
tucky follow'ed Tennessee in 1923, with Gordon Wilson at the helm and
editing his four-page quarterly. This was followed by still existing societies
in each southern state.

I have attended nearly all of the KOS annual meetings and have
enjoyed my association with its members. In simple words, they are a fine
lot of people; amply evidenced by their tenacity in keeping the KOS ever
moving forward on an even keel. I treasure my file of The Kentucky W'arhler
and find that in its thousands of pages of infonnation on Kentucky birds,
it has helped to sustain our interest and to seiwe as a foundation for
Robert M. Mengel’s excellent book. The Birds of Kentucky (1965). Running
through this file recently, I wrote down 50 names of those who especially
put their shoulders to the wheel to do what w'as needed to sustain the
Society — would that space permitted me to name them all here. However,
your real history will be found on another page. I do think, however, that

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

37

I should pay special tribute to your hard working editors through the
years, beginning with the indefatigable Gordon Wilson, followed by Burt
L. Monroe, Sr., Harvey B. Lovell, and now, your talented Anne L. Stamm.
— 2112 Woodlawn Drive, Nashville, Tennessee 37212.

FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY MEETING
May 11-13, 1973

The Kentucky Ornithological Society opened its Fiftieth Annual Spring
Meeting at Louisville on Friday, May 11, 1973, with registration in the lobby
of the Holiday Inn-Rivermont at 5:00 p.m. Each registrant was given, in
addition to the usual name tag, an informative pack of materials containing
many items of interest including maps of Louisville, of interesting areas in
the vicinity, of the Zoo, a guide to the artists and paintings of the special
art exhibit, etc., and even a rain bonnet!

At 8:00 p.m., the members were welcomed by President Burt L. Monroe,
Jr., to the Fiftieth Anniversary Meeting and to Louisville, the city where the
Society was founded in April, 1923. Dr. Monroe commented on the growth
of the organization from the three original gentlemen to the 500-some
members as of today. He also reminded the members that the purposes of
the Society were not only to promote the study of wild bird life, but also to
create an interest in the environmental problems of today to maintain the
aesthetic value of the environment for the future.

Dr. Monroe then drew the members’ attention to the display around
the meeting room of the original paintings of nationally known artists
loaned by members of the KOS and Frame House Gallery. (A copy of the
complete list of artists and their paintings is attached).

After announcing the plans for the Locust Grove meeting Sunday, and
the reception after the meeting. Dr. Monroe read a letter of personal
congratulations to the KOS from Congressman Romano Mazzoli. He then
called on Miss Evelyn Schneider, Librarian for the KOS, who had been
asked to write the history of the Society.

Beginning with the original meeting of the first three members, namely
L. Otley Pindar, B. C. Bacon and Gordon Wilson, Miss Schneider held the
attention of all present as she described in minute detail the interesting
growth and spread of the organization through 50 years.

It was moved and seconded that this excellent piece of thorough re-
search by Miss Schneider be printed in its entirety in The Kentucky
Warbler.

Next on the program was the ever-popular color film, “Rainbow
Feathers” by Karl Maslowski.

Dr. Monroe then introduced the leaders for the field trips for Saturday
morning :

Leonard Brecher Falls of the Ohio area

Mrs. F. W. Stamm and

Miss Mabel Slack Cherokee and Seneca Parks

Burt Monroe, Jr. Bernheim Forest

He also announced the forthcoming talk on the Brown Pelican by Ralph
Schreiber on Tuesday, May 29, at 8:00 p.m. at the Louisville Zoo.

The meeting then adjourned at 9:00 p.m. for an autograph session
of the recently published book, Kentucky Birds, a Finding Guide, the co-

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

authors, Roger W. Barbour, Clell T. Peterson, Delbert Rust, Herbert E.
Shadowen, and A. L. Whitt, Jr. all being present.

A giant-sized gold and white cake and punch invited the members to
stay for the reception, renew friendships, and leisurely enjoy the art
exhibit.

Saturday morning dawned sunny, clear and warm, negating the neces-
sity of the rain bonnets provided in the pack at registration. By 7:30 a.m.
the members had disappeared in three directions for the field trips.

At 3:45 in the afternoon there was a general business meeting, with
over forty members present. Dr. Monroe presiding. Since there were no
corrections to the minutes of the 1972 Fall Meeting as published in The
Kentucky Warbler, they were approved as published.

A spontaneous applause of appreciation was given Mrs. Anne L. Stamm
for her many years of service to the KOS, for her fine publication of The
Kentucky Warbler, and her untiring efforts to make this fiftieth meeting
such a success.

Dr. Monroe then announced that the Fall Meeting would be held at
Kenlake Resort State Park on September 28, 29, 30, the time of peak
warbler migration. This is to be a joint meeting with the Kentucky Depart-
ment of Parks Ornithological Weekend. He also reminded the members of
the 6:30 social hour, the 7:00 p.m. banquet with Karl Maslowski as the
principal speaker, the art exhibit of bird paintings, and the Sunday trip
to Locust Grove consisting of breakfast out-of-doors, a field trip through
the twenty acres of ground, and the tour of the historical house where
George Rogers Clark lived and John James Audubon visited. Since the
number of people for this trip was limited. Dr. Monroe suggested that
those who had been unable to obtain reservations contact him and he would
point out good places for field trips around Louisville.

A British film entitled “Wild Wings” and dealing mostly with the
Bird Refuge at Slimbridge was then shown.

The meeting adjourned at 4:55 p.m.

A banquet, buffet style, was served at 7:00 p.m. to some 150 members
and their guests in Rooms B and C of the Holiday Inn-Rivermont. Bouquets
of spring flowers from Audrey Wright’s garden decorated the crowded
tables and at each place there was a brochure of information about the
KOS, a menu, and a copy of the Summary of Occurrence of Birds of Ken-
tucky, bound with a gold cord.

The program began with a welcome by the president Burt L. Monroe,
Jr., who then read letters of best wishes from three members, who, due to
illness, could not attend the Fiftieth Meeting. The letters were from: Oscar
McKinley Bryens of Michigan, who, since 1958 never missed a Fall Meeting.
Mrs. Eugene Cypert a past president, and James W. Hancock who under-
went open-heart surgery on April 19.

The officers and their guests seated at the speaker’s table were then
introduced, including the guest of honor, Albert F. Gainer; Karl Maslowski
the speaker for the evening, and past presidents, Evelyn Schneider, Mrs.
F. W. Stamm, Mabel Slack, and Herbert Shadowen, who is also the incoming
editor of The Kentucky Warbler. Other past presidents, Leonard Brecher,
Clell Peterson, Raymond Nall, and Willard Gray and their wives were
introduced from the floor, as were also the councillors A. L. Powell and
Ramon lies and their wives, and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver.

Dr. Monroe then thanked the local committee and all involved for the
tremendous work that they had done for the success of this Anniversary

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

39

Meeting, including those who obtained the paintings and set up the art
exhibit, singling out Ray Harm, staff artist; Fritz Hilton, Anne Stamm,
Louis Pieper, and Dave Schwartz.

He announced that the Frame House Gallery will sponsor a reception
for a number of current wildlife artists on May 20 at 5:00 p.m. and invited
all who could to attend.

The program was then turned over to Mabel Slack for the presentation
of a plaque to Albert F. Ganier of Nashville, Tennessee, who was instru-
mental in the formation of the KOS and has been a faithful adviser and an
inspiration for so many years.

Mr. Ganier responded in telling of the pride he felt in seeing such a
large gathering before him of members who were not only following the
avocation of bird study but also leading others in the preservation of the
environment, influencing many to enjoy life more. He called attention to
the fact that of the number of members of the first eight years of the
Society’s existence, he was one of the few still alive and that in three
months he would be 90 years old.

He praised highly the work of Miss Schneider and Miss Slack and
called Anne L. Stamm the “backbone of the KOS”. After mentioning many
of the earlier members with whom he had been closely associated he re-
marked that the few members in the early history of the Society could not
have realized the tremendous future as evinced today. He specifically
praised the publication of the Society, The Kentucky Warbler, with its
accumulated wealth of information about the birds of Kentucky, and com-
mended the recently published Kentucky Birds, a Finding Guide for its
superb format and exceptional illustrations.

While necessary preparations were being made for projecting the
movie of the evening, Clell Peterson, chairman of the Resolutions Commit-
tee, read the resolutions consisting of thanks to the many people who had
made this fine meeting possible. The resolutions were unanimously approved.

Mrs. Stamm then introduced the speaker of the evening, Karl Maslow-
ski, who really needed no introduction, having been a friend of the KOS
for over twenty-five years, a frequent speaker and truly “one of us.” Mr.
Maslowski, Mrs. Stamm continued, is a wildlife photographer, a lecturer.
Vice President of the Cincinnati Nature Center, and the nature columnist
on the Cincinnati Enquirer for the last 35 years. He has illustrated many
magazines and has made over 12 motion pictures for the Department of
Fish and Wildlife Resources. Walt Disney has used many portions of these
films for his charming wildlife movies.

In reply, Mr. Maslowski thanked the KOS for including him in this
Fiftieth Anniversary Meeting, having first made contact with the Society
some 40 years ago in meeting Albert Ganier, Gordon Wilson, and Burt
Monroe, Sr., at Reelfoot Lake. He hastened to explain that the film he
was about to show had only been tried in his studio and had never been
shown to a live audience and therefore might have some surprises for
himself and the audience. The movie, “Wildlife By Day and By Night,” a
pictorial record of day and night activities of a variety of animals, with its
usual superb photography and witty comments by Mr. Maslowski, was
thoroughly enjoyed.

With the final totaling of the birds observed during the day — 127
species being reported, the meeting adjourned.

The finale to the three day meeting was the breakfast at Locust Grove,
a bird walk over the grounds there, and a guided tour through the historical

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

I

house where John Janies Audubon visited during his stay in Louisville in
1810-1812.

Respectfully submitted,
Sister Casimir Czurles
Recording Secretary

RESOLUTIONS

The following resolutions were submitted by the Committee on Reso-
lutions (Clell T. Peterson, Chairman, Willard Gray, and Albert Powell)
and approved by the members at the dinner meeting on May 12, 1973.

The Committee on Resolutions is happy to have even a humble part in
this meeting w'hich commemorates the 50th anniversary of the founding
of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. Credit for this meeting goes to a
great many people, some of whom were mentioned by Miss Schneider in her
excellent history of the Society on last night’s program. We are on this
occasion appreciative of all those who have, over the years, filled the offices
of the Society, supported its activities, and passed their knowledge and
enthusiasm on from generation to generation.

However the Committee wishes to acknowledge here the services of a
number of specific persons.

Resolved: For the admirable art exhibit, we wish to thank Mr. Ray Harm,
who is also the Society’s staff artist, and The Frame House Gallery; Dr.
Fritz Hilton; and Mr. David Schwartz. Their hours of labor have produced
an exciting exhibit of original bird art seldom equaled. We thank all those
who have loaned paintings to this show.

Resolved: For the arrangements for the banquet and the use of facilities,
and always with efficiency and courtesy, we wish to thank the Rivermont
Holiday Inn management and staff.

Again, for the arrangements for this meeting, we wish to acknowledge
in particular the work of Mrs. F. W. Stamm. Mrs. Stamm (Anne, or
Annie, as Dr. Barbour would say) has, as always, done her share and more
to make the meeting a success. This is also the occasion to expres apprecia-
tion to Mrs. Stamm for serving as editor of The Kentucky Warbler since
Dr. Gordon Wilson resigned the office in 1963.

Resolved: Inasmuch as Mrs. F. W. Stamm’s careful, informed, and con-
scientious editorship has continued the fine tradition of The Kentucky
Warbler as established by Dr. Gordon Wilson and has made it an outstanding
state ornithological journal, we wish to express to her our appreciation
and gratitude. We are confident that the high standards established will
be maintained by the new editor. Dr. Herbert Shadowen.

Resolved: For the arrangements for tomorrow morning for the breakfast
at Locust Grove, the bird walk on the grounds, and the visit to the historic
home, we wish to thank the board and officers of Locust Grove and
especially Mrs. Irvin (Helen) Abell, Jr.

Resolved: For their loyal, untiring, and capable service we wish to thank
all present, officers of K. 0. S. In their hands, at this moment of the mid-
century point of its history, our beloved Society is secure and thriving.
And finally —

Resolved: That we here express our thanks to the unknown officers and
members who will serve in the next half-century to keep the Kentucky
Ornithological Society a strong and significant organization. Few of us
present today will be on hand to thank those persons in the year 2023.
We thank them now.

I

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

41

THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S ART EXHIBIT

OF

ORIGINAL BIRD PAINTINGS

May 11-12, 1973
Holiday Inn -Ri Vermont
Artists and their Paintings

NEWTON 0. BELT, Blandville, Kentucky (courtesy Mr. and Mrs. L. C.
Brecher and Mrs. F. W. Stamm)

1. Ducks in a Swamp 2. Red-headed Woodpeckers

DON R. ECKELBERRY , Long Island, New York (courtesy Mabel Slack)

1. White-collared Seedeater

ERNEST P. EDWARDS, Sweet Briar, Virginia (courtesy Mabel Slack)

1. Toco Toucan

SIDNEY A. GAUTHREAUX, JR., Clemons, South Carolina (courtesy Dr.
and Mrs. B. L. Monroe, Jr.)

1. Honduran Emeralds 2. Yellow-naped Parrot

RAY HARM, Chenoa, Kentucky (courtesy Ray Harm and Frame House
Gallery)

1. Brown Thrasher 2. Cedar Waxwing

3. American Goldfinch 4. Pileated Woodpecker

FRITZ HILTON, Louisville, Kentucky (courtesy Fritz Hilton)

1. Blue Tit 2. Crossbill

3. Mountain White-crowned Sparrow 4. Waxwing

ROBERT M. MENGEL, Lawrence, Kansas (courtesy Dr. and Mrs. B. L.
Monroe, Jr.)

1. Red-tailed Hawk

JOHN P. O’NEILL, Baton Rouge, Louisiana (^ourtesy Dr. and Mrs. B. L.
Monroe, Jr.) ’

1. Tawny-faced Quail

HOWARD ROLLIN , Weldona, Colorado (courtesy Kentucky Ornithological
Society)

1.

Gyrfalcon

2.

Lapland Longspur

3.

Myrtle Warblers

4.

Ruddy Turnstone

5.

American Redstart

6.

Whip-poor-will

7.

American Woodcock

8.

Hairy Woodpecker

9.

Blackburnian Warblers

10.

Bobolinks

11.

Peregrine Falcon

12.

Great Crested Flycatcher

ARTHUR SINGER, New York, New York (courtesy Frame House Gallery)
1. Avocet 2. A Study on Owls

WILLIAM ZIMMERMAN , Cincinnati, Ohio (courtesy Frame House
Gallery)

1. Ducks in Flight

42

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

ATTENDANCE AT THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY MEETING,
SPRING 1973

BOWLING GREEN: Mrs. H. B. Clark, Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Shadowen.
BROOKS STATION: Amy Deane.

CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. W. R. Kingsolver and Ann.

DANVILLE: Mrs. Bowman Myers.

GLASGOW’: Mrs. George Ellis, Mrs. James Gillenwater, Dr. and Mrs.
Russell Starr.

FRANKFORT : IMartha Harrod, Howard Jones.

JEFFERSONTOW’N : Mr. and Mrs. Roland Jenkins, Mr. and Mrs. WTlliam
B. Mathes.

LEXINGTON: Roger Barbour, Mrs. Robert 0. Meyer.

LOUISVILLE: Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Aldrich, Amelia Alford, Janet Borders,
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Brecher, Virginia Calvert, Dr. and Mrs WTlliam
Clay, George Crabtree, Ray Davis, Mrs. M. L. Daubard, Mr. and Mrs.
W’alter Ellison, Mabel Fibiger, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Fisher, Doris
Garst, Sue Hall, Dr. and Mrs. Frederick Hilton, Mrs. B. L. Hargrove,
Mr. and Mrs. W’ilbur Jackson, Clifford Johnson, Arnold Karpoff, Mr.
and Mrs. J. O. Knight, Jr., Dr. and Mrs. K. P. McConnell, Lois Massie,
jMrs. Burt L. Monroe, Sr., Dr. and Mrs. Burt L. IMonroe, Jr., Mrs. Max
Moore, Mrs. H. V. Noland, Ann Norman, Louis H. Pieper, Mrs. C. A.
Robertson, Rose Mary Rommel, Evelyn Schneider, Mr. and Mrs. F. W^
Schoettler, Mary Schuster, Helga Schutte, Alan Shadburne, Mr. and
Mrs. Francis P. Shannon, Mrs. Eugene Short, Mabel Slack, Lawrence
Smith, W. Virginia Smith, Mr. and Mrs. F. W'. Stamm, I\Ir. and Mrs.
Chester Sundquist, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Susie, Mr. and Mrs. W’. B.
Tabler, Olga Tafel, Lois Von Allmen, Mr. and Mrs. Guy W’ood, Audrey
Wright.

MADISONVILLE : Thelma Gentry, Mrs. Sue Place, Mr. and Mrs. N. M.

Travis, Irene W’ells.

MACEO: Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Powell.

MURRAY : C. W. Kemper, Dr. and Mrs. Ray Nall, Clell Peterson.
NICHOLASVILLE: Michael G. Miller.

OW’ENSBORO: Mrs. J. E. Bickel, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Bowne, Sister
Casimir Czurles, Mary Lydia Greenwell, Mr. and Mrs. Ray lies, Jr.,
Mrs. Ray lies, Sr., W’ynema Sims, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. WTlson.
PROSPECT: Mr. and Mrs. 0. F. Hook.

RICHMOND: A. L. W’hitt, Jr.

VERSAILLES: Mrs. George Gregory.

ALAMO, CALIFORNIA: Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Richmond.

BOONE VILLE, INDIANA: Don Andrews, W’illard Gray, Robert Mc-
Cormick.

COLUMBUS, INDIANA: Mr. and Mrs. Delbert Rust.

TENNYSON, INDIANA: Kim Neese.

PEORIA, ILLINOIS: Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Schafer.

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN: Mr. and Mrs. John A. Cheek.

CINCINNATI, OHIO: Karl Maslowski.

W’AVERLY, OHIO: Mrs. Floyd Brown, Mrs. Karl Jenks.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: Albert F. Ganier,

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

43

WOODCOCK NESTINCx RECORDS

Lee K. Nelson

Two American Woodcock (Philohela minor) nests were discovered on
successive days at two points in western Kentucky. Both were observed
after flushing the hens upon inadvertently walking within a few feet of
the nest sites. Each nest had four eggs in a state of incubation.

The first nest was found on March 21, 1973. It was located on the
ground on a fairly sparsely vegetated hillside on our farm which lies one
mile southeast of Dixon in Webster County. The hillside, which contains
brush and some trees, overlooks a bottom through which Farmer’s Creek
flows. Broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), greenbriar (Smilax spp.),
dogwood (Cornus florida), and sassafras (Sassafras albidu7n) were the
dominant plant species in the vicinity. The nest was revisited on April 6,
but only scattered egg shells were found. It was determined from their
appearance that all of the eggs hatched successfully.

The second nest was found on March 22, 1973, on the Frank Sauerheber
Waterfowl Refuge which is owned and managed by the Kentucky Depart-
ment of Fish and Wildlife Resources. It is located approximately nine
miles northwest of the city of Henderson, in Henderson County. Upon
flushing, the hen attempted to draw my full attention with her “cripple”
act. The nest was located in a six-foot fallow strip between a partially
harvested corn (Zea matjs) field and a fence. The nest location was atop
a low bank overlooking a cypress (Taxodium disfichum) slough — Alves
Slough. Here, too, ground cover was sparse, consisting mostly of dead weeds,
fescue grass (Festuca spp.), and blackberry (Riihus spp.). The overstory
contained black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) with poison ivy (Rhus I'adi-
cans) on the fence. The nest was revisited eleven times in the next 14 days.

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

The hen was found on the nest on each visit, with the exception of April
5. Egg shells found that date gave the appearance of a successful hatching
of all eggs. Hatching had taken place during the previous 24-hour period.
Woodcock are precocial birds and leave the vincinity of the nest as soon
as they hatch. It takes approximately one month for them to develop good
flight ability.

A woodcock flushing observation (sex unknown) was made in a dense
woody thicket approximately 200 feet south of the nest site on March 23.
Another flushing observation was made on April 9 in a densely wooded
thicket approximately 500 yards southwest of the nest site.

Mr. A. L. Powell, Jr., Maceo, Kentucky, took the accompanying photo-
graph and others, including color slides, on March 24. This hen was a
most accommodating subject.

— Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Recources, Route 3, Owens-
boro 42301.

FIELD NOTES

KILLDEER NESTING ON ROOF TOPS

In 1971 during my study of the Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles
minor), I was surprised to find considerable Killdeer (Charadrius vocifer-
>is) activity on the flat- topped roofs of school buildings in Jefferson County.
I visited 20 county schools plus the Shelbyville Road Mall from July 8 to
July 21, and observed Killdeer, with eggs or young, on nine buildings.

All of the buildings were near open fields and many contained stand-
ing water with growing algae. There were no buildings on which both
Common Nighthawk and Killdeer were nesting. In fact, I found Common
Nighthawks exclusively on city schools and Killdeer only on county schools.

All roofs were gravel surfaced. Two of the nests were placed on slant-
ing roofs (about 20°). Below is a summary of the Killdeer nests:

Nest 1. Found July 8; near center of slanting roof of the two-story
gymnasium. Southern High School, 8620 Preston Highway; contained four
eggs. The eggs were located in a slight depression in the center of a cluster
of lightly colored pebbles. The adult bird flushed quietly and perched
momentarily on the roof edge, before leaving the building. The bird re-
turned and called loudly but did not feign injury.

Nest. 2. Found July 8 on the roof of Indian Trail Elementary School,
3 709 Indian Trail; one egg and three young in a slight depression in a
cluster of lightly colored pebbles. The parent bird flew from the nest,
feigning injury, w'hile one fledgling left the nest and walked about.

Nest. 3. Found July 9; three young running inside the gutter on
the roof of the gymnasium. Valley High School, Valley Station, Kentucky.
The building was structually similar to that of Southern High School.

Adult Killdeer were present on the roofs of four other county schools
and also on the Shelbyville Mall. Two nests, with four eggs each, were
reported to me on July 21 as having been found earlier in the season on
the roofs of Hazelwood Baptist Church, Shively, and Smyrna Elementary
School, 6401 Outerloop. I am indebted to the janitors of the latter two
buildings for this information. — EDWIN LARSON, 2104 Baringer, Louis-
ville 40205.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

45

SPRING DANCE OF THE WOODCOCK

On March 9, 1973, at 7:00 p.m. (EST) at Lake Carnico, Nicholas
County, my husband, two daughters and I sat down on the grass at the
head of a partially wooded valley, to hear and see the sky dance of the
American Woodcock ( Philohela minor), just as we had done in previous
years.

The sky still held a crimson glow above the lake when suddenly the
twitter of wings began to circle around us higher and higher, then faster
and faster, descending, then a clucking sound and silence. Then on the
ground — not far below us among the cedars — a nasal beep.

As the darkness deepened at 7:30, the slice of moon became visible
amidst scudding clouds, the display ended. We had witnessed a magical
moment in nature’s classroom — the spring dance of the woodcock.

Also, on March 11 and 12 we observed the aerial flight-song of this
species on our farm, which is located on Scrub Grass Road, Carlisle,
Nicholas County. The area of observation was on a partially cleared ridge
top near a small pond surrounded by mixed hardwood and cedar forest. In
the twilight, on March 12 we could see two birds at close range; one,
presumably the female, also made the beeping sound as well as a soft
guttural sound in answer to the wild display and calling of the male. —
VIRGINIA H. KINGSOLVER, Rt. #2, Carlisle 40311.

NESTING OF THE SONG SPARROW
IN WESTERN HOPKINS COUNTY

About 25 years ago the Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) was re-
garded by me as a rare and irregular summer resident in Hopkins County
(Ky. Warbler, 30:46, 1954). In recent years I have found it more regularly
in summer at certain spots such as at Elk Creek, Brown Road, and Goose
Pond, but I still regard it as an uncommon summer resident within the
county.

For some time I have believed this species to be a nesting bird and
on May 11, 1972, I found evidence of this at Goose Pond, which is two
miles south of Providence.

As I walked along the levee bordering the marsh, I flushed a sitting
bird and found the nest in a clump of grass; it contained five eggs. Four
of the eggs were heavily speckled with reddish-brown spots but one was
lighter and not so heavily marked ; all had the white ground color.

The habitat was predominantly of black willow and red maple, while
in the marsh below there was a rank growth of spatterdock. — JAMES W.
HANCOCK, Route 1, Madisonville 42431.

BLACK TERN AT BUCKHORN LAKE

On May 18, 1972, while working Buckhorn Lake State Park, I found
a single Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) feeding over the water. Later, the
bird flew to a buoy and as I passed within 15 feet of it by boat, I could
see all its markings. I believe this sighting is worthy to record since Robert
M. Mengel in his Birds of Kentucky states that the species has not been
recorded from the Cumberland Plateau. — A. L. WHITT, JR., Eastern
Kentucky University, Richmond 40475.

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

A MOURNING DOVE FLEDGLING IN EARLY MARCH

The warm spells which occur during late January and early February
never fail to bring on courtship displays among the Mourning Doves
(Zenaidura macroiira) which I look upon as rather tragic, presaging the
death of the nestlings when the weather drops down to normal.

I live in Rolling Fields, a subdivision in eastern Jefferson County,
which has a constant population of doves. I have never used a feeding plat-
form, preferring to feed on the paved driveway in the rear of my home. I
have always had in attendance from four to 14 doves, depending upon the
season. Over the years the birds have become quite tame.

This year, 1973, the unusually warm early February brought on a
veritable orgy of courtship and nest building in the pines, all of which I
discounted when I realized what would happen when the cold weather
retui'ned. Imagine my surprise when I saw a young, free-flying, fully-
feathered dove in the tree beside my driveway on March 22. It was
accompanied by one of its parents and sat approximately 10 feet above
my head. Its tail, I would judge, was about two inches long.

If we speculate that the bird had been out of the nest approximately
3-5 days, plus 12-14 days in the nest, plus 10-12 days in the egg, we arrive
at a date of approximately February 20-25 when the egg was laid.

The Editor tells me that records of early nesting of doves are plentiful,
but there are few records of successful nestings, which is the reason for
this note. — JAMES B. YOUNG, 417 Club Lane, Louisville 40207.

YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD AT LOUISVILLE

On April 19, 1973, just before exiting from the Watterson Expressway
on the ramp from the Standiford Field airport, my wife and I saw a male
Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus). The bird was
in company with Common Crackles (Quiscalus quiscula). The yellow head
was seen in full view and easily identified. — RAY HARM, Chenoa 40925.

(Ed. note: We have only three previous sight records for the Yellow-
headed Blackbird in the Louisville ai'ea: April 19, 1940; October 13, 1952;
May 19, 1963 (Kij. Warbler, 16:27-28, 1940; 28:58, 1952; 39:46, 1963). It
is of interest that in all cases a single male was observed.)

BOOK REVIEW

KENTUCKY BIRDS: A Finding Guide, by Roger W. Barbour, Clell T.
Peterson, Delbert Rust, Herbert E. Shadowen, and A. L. Whitt, Jr.
The University Press of Kentucky, Lexington, 1973; pp. xxii & 306,
ill. w'ith 248 col. photos (239 of birds), and 21 maps or diagrams. $9.75.

This is the third volume in the series of introductory guides to our
fauna and flora, entitled Kentucky Nature Studies, and like the earlier
books on wildflowers and herptiles, it is copiously illustrated, printed on
high-grade paper, and sturdily bound.

As the preface makes clear, it is intended “for readers who are not
trained in ornithology but might be interested in knowing more about our

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

47

state’s birds . . We are singularly fortunate in having Robert M.
Mengel’s scholarly The Birds of Kentucky (1965) and now its non-
technical complement.

The new book acknowledges that most of its information on each
species’ status, seasonal occurrence, and habitat is derived from Mengel.
For certain birds {e.g., Cattle Egret, Blue and Evening Grosbeaks) Mengel’s
accounts are correctly revised in the light of these species’ recently changed
status, but in a number of cases Mengel’s information seems to have been
unintentionally misrepresented or miscopied. Thus we read in Kentucky
Birds that the King Rail may breed here “from late March” before it
arrives “by early April”; that both Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs are
“very rare summer residents” (italics mine) ; that the Eastern Phoebe’s
“departure begins in late October”; that the Yellow Warbler’s “fall migra-
tion apparently begins in late August” (whereas it is actually nearly com-
pleted here by then) ; that the House Wren “arrives occasionally in late
February” (= late March), etc.

Evidently many dates are based on Burt L. Monroe, Jr.’s “Summary
of Occurrence of Birds of Kentucky” (Ky. Warbler, 45:47-56, 1969), though
I could find no mention of that important paper. In my opinion, extreme
dates should have been left out of the book under review; certainly it is
misleading to inform would-be Kentucky birders that Great Crested Fly-
catchers “appear in late March or early April, occasionally a few days
earlier,” that Least Flycatchers are here early in April and that “some
linger on into November,” that Golden-crowned Kinglets and Water Pipits
sometimes arrive in late August, and Henslow’s Sparrows in early March.

The Kentucky status of a number of additional species, evidently based
on Mengel’s book, is either erroneous {e.g., the Rough-legged Hawk is
actually fairly common locally most winters in central Kentucky, not
“very rare”) or somewhat inaccurate: for example, the Acadian Flycatcher
and Yellow-breasted Chat do not attain full numbers early in May; the
bobolink is not “very rare in fall” (Mengel himself cites sizeable numbers
in September) ; the Purple Finch is said to be rare by late April (actually
this is when it is most frequently recorded near Danville). Many similar
examples could be given, but these are admittedly minor criticisms in view
of the nature of the book.

Virtually every species of bird known to occur in Kentucky is included,
and all except the rarest are briefly described. For birds that breed in
the state, nidification and vocalizations are also indicated.

What will sell the book are the 239 color photos of birds, illustrating
228 species. This is truly a remarkable collection, representing samples of
the work of not less than 27 photographers. Even such elusive subjects as
the Virginia Rail and Henslow’s Sparrow are well portrayed. Some of the
commoner species not illustrated are the Yellow-throated Vireo and Grass-
hopper Sparrow. The two or three pictures on a page are often quite dif-
ferent in scale, but I trust that few people will be misled by our humming-
bird appearing considerably larger than our kingfisher! The quality of
the illustrations varies from rather poor to excellent. Most are good or
very good. It will be noted, however, that the Ring-necked Duck is accom-
panied by uncaptioned scaups, that the Wilson’s Phalarope shares its
pool with an unannounced Northern Phalarope (which was supposed to be
deleted from the right side of the picture), that the white underparts of
both cuckoos are badly reproduced, that the Warbling Vireo appears too

48

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

greenish above and too yellowish below, that the sexes of the Golden-
winged Warbler are transposed, and that the Chestnut-sided Warbler
marked “female” should be called “immature.”

The list of photographic credits might better have been placed in the
front of the book, rather than half-hidden in the back. Also, it is difficult
to find the name of a photographer without going through the entire list
of credits. No less than fifteen photographs, including some of the best,
are not credited to anyone!

Approximately the last third of the book is devoted to “A Guide to
Bird Finding Areas.” As the jacket says, the “47 localities have been
chosen to represent a wide diversity of habitats — from cypress swamps to
Big Black Mountain . . .” Descriptions of these areas, though sometimes
very brief, and directions on how to reach them, constitute one of the
book’s most useful features, not only for birders but for vacationers in
general, since accommodations are usually mentioned. Most of the ac-
companying maps are unsatisfactory, however, and we could wish for more
infonnation about the local birdlife — for some areas, not a single species
is mentioned.

Kentucky Birds is well indexed, nearly free from typographical errors,
reasonably priced, and on the whole quite successful in its stated aims.
It will be a welcome aid to the ever-increasing numbers interested in
conservation and wildlife. — FREDERICK W. LOETSCHER, JR., Depart-
ment of Biology, Centre College, Danville 40422.

NEWS AND VIEWS

Because of the pressure of other work your present Editor asked the
Board of Directors at the Lake Cumberland Meeting, October 1972, to be
relieved of the responsibility at conclusion of Volume 48 (December 31,
1972), her 15th year of editorial work. Since the new Editor, Dr. Herbert
Shadowen, could not assume the office until mid-summer she agreed to
continue the work and conclude wuth the current Anniversary issue. She is
grateful not only to all who have written articles and field notes and their
kind understanding of her heavy red pencil, but to the editorial staff,
officers of KOS, workers at General Printing Company, and for the
encouragement received from members and friends throughout her editor-
ship. She also acknowledges, with special thanks, the countless hours
Frederick W. Stamm spent checking over census tables, figures, proof
reading, etc., without w’hose patience her task would have been practically
impossible. Articles for publication in The Kentucky Warbler are now to be
sent to Dr. Shadowen, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky Univer-
sity, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101. — Anne L. Stamm.

4: 4: * *

The Fall Meeting will be held at Kenlake State Resort Park on Sep-
tember 28-30, 1973. K. 0. S. has been invited to cooperate and to hold a
joint meeting with the Kentucky Department of Parks for its annual
ornithological weekend. Plans are in the making for a good program.

4: 4c 4: 4:

If you have a new address, please notify the Secretary, Mrs. M. L.
Daubard, 616 Rudy Lane, Louisville, Kentucky 40^(17 We not, wish for
you to miss any of the Society’s mailings -I- ^|jj^cpiy\is ptt^^sive vihen
Kentucky Warblers are returned. ^ ^ ^

JUL 1 S 1973

The Kentucky Warbler

(Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society)

Vol. 49 AUGUST, 1973 No. 3

SCREECH OWL

IN THIS ISSUE

SCREECH OWL UTILIZATION OF WOOD DUCK BOXES,

John H. Phillips 51

1973 BIG SPRING LISTS 54

THE 1973 ONE-DAY BALD EAGLE COUNT, Anne L. Stamm 58

FIELD NOTES 60

NEWS AND VIEWS 60

50

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson

President Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Louisville

Vice-President A. L. Whitt, Jr., Richmond

Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Mary Louise Daubard

616 Rudy Lane, Louisville 40207

Recording Secretary Sister Casimir Czurles, Owensboro

Councillors:

Albert Powell, Maceo 1971-1973

Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green 1971-1973

Ramon R. lies, Owensboro 1972-1974

Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1972-1974

Retiring President Ray Nall, Murray

Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville

Staff Artist Ray Harm, Chenoa

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Organ of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. Published quarterly in
February, May, August, and November. The KENTUCKY WARBLER is
sent to all members not in arrears for dues. Membership dues are: Active
or Regular, $3.00; Contributing, $5.00; Student, $2.00; Life, $50.00; Family,
$1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues. All
articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscrip-
dons, memberships, and requests for back issues should be sent to the
treasurer.

Editor H. E. Shadowen, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ.,

Bowling Green 42101

Editorial Advisory Board

Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Leonard C. Brecher

OUR COVER

We are again indebted to Karl Maslowski for the cover picture of the
Screech Owl. Mr. Maslow'ski is well known to us because of his speaking
and writing ability as well as his superb photography.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

51

SCREECH OWL UTILIZATION OF WOOD DUCK BOXES
IN MADISON COUNTY, KENTUCKY

John H. Phillips

Between 1970 and 1972, 53 Wood Duck boxes were constructed and
erected in Madison County, Kentucky by the wildlife management classes
at Estern Kentucky University. These boxes were erected to increase the
nesting of Wood Ducks (Aix sponsa) in this area. It soon became apparent
that other wildlife found these boxes suitable for den and nest sites. The
Screech Owl (Otis asio) was one of these.

This study was conducted to gather information on the local movements,
diet, color phase ratios, nesting and migration of the Screech Owl and
competition with other wildlife.

Study Areas and Habitat

The four study areas were within a 15 mile radius of Richmond,
Kentucky. The four areas were Central Kentucky Wildlife Refuge, Lake
Reba, Lake Wilgreen, and Silver Creek. They were mapped, with the location
of each nest box included. Central Kentucky Wildlife Refuge was mostly
open farm land, with most boxes located near small farm ponds. The boxes
at Lake Reba were near or in a marsh, and the boxes at Lake Wilgreen
and Silver Creek were located by creeks.

Sprunt (1955) stated that the main habitat of the Screech Owl con-
sists of open woodlands, edges of fields or farms, marshland borders, and
swamplands. A detailed comparison of these habitats was not made, but it
is evident that the aquatic-like habitat of the different study areas strongly
affected the diet of the Screech Owl.

Materials and Methods

The boxes were typical Wood Duck nesting boxes, constructed of milled
lumber. The dimensions varied, but most boxes were approximately 10
inches by 10 inches by 18 inches. The opening measured three inches by
four inches. All boxes were constructed with removable lids for easy
access to the inside of the box. The boxes were nailed or wired to trees,
between a height of five and 25 feet from the ground, with an average of
15 feet. The nesting material in the boxes consisted of saw dust to a depth
of one inch.

Beginning January 30, 1972, all boxes were checked every two weeks.
The last observation was made May 4, 1972. Some boxes were visited more
frequently when being used by nesting Screech Owls or Sparrow Hawks
(Falco sparverius). The boxes were reached by using tree spikes. Each box
was numbered so it could more easily be recorded. The presence of pellets
was used as an indicator of frequency of box usage. A pellet analysis was

52

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

not done in this study, but prey remains were examined to give a general
indication of the diet of the Screech Owl.

If a Screech Owl were found in a box, the bird was removed, placed in
a paper bag, brought to the ground, and banded with a United States Fish
and Wildlife Service band. The bird was weighed while in the paper bag,
using a 250 gram Ohaus spring scale, and released. The owls were not aged
or sexed, but it was assumed that the heavier owls were females and the
lighter ones males. Nesting owls were not disturbed, banded or weighed
until their young were two weeks old. At this time the young adults were
banded.

Discussion

A total of 33 Screech Owls (22 adults and 11 young) were banded.
Bent (1938) reported that Screech Owls are permanent residents, but that
some migration takes place in the northern part of their summer range.
Sprunt (1955) wrote that the Screech Owl is not migratory; however, he
reported instances where they were found 300 miles or more from the
point of banding. Data on long range movements from this study will not
be available until sufficient returns are submitted from the Bird Banding
Laboratory at Laurel, Maryland.

Fifty percent of the boxes were occupied by owls at least one or more
times, and 77 percent show'ed some usage by Screech Owls. The percentage
of boxes used by Screech Owls in this study was much higher than that of
similar studies. In a two year study by Brown and Bellrose (1943) in
Illinois, only three percent of 3,449 boxes were occupied by Screech Owls
at some time, and only four and one half percent of the boxes showed
recent use by owls. The higher percentage in our study was possibly due
to the location of the boxes in an aquatic environment or to a bigger owl
population density in this area.

I observed one box being used by three different Screech Owls at
different times, and several boxes were observed being used by two dif-
ferent owls at different times. Hesselschwert (1942) stated that individual
Screech Owls may choose a box and establish a territory around it, occasion-
ally using other boxes included within that territory. However, this study
did not reveal the establishment of territory.

The study of prey remains found within the boxes during the winter
months indicates that the diet of the Screech Owl in this study consisted
of 18 percent small birds, 10 percent small mammals, 31 percent aquatic or
amphibian organisms, and 41 percent unidentified species.

Color phase ratios were noted. Of the adults, 50 percent were red and
50 percent were grey. Hesselschwert (1942) reported that in every instance
in which a pair of owls were found in a box with eggs or young, one adult
was red and the other was grey. Brown and Bellrose (1943) stated that
birds of both color phases were frequently found in the same box. I
found that in five instances when two Screech Owls were together, both
were the same color. A color phase ratio could not be determined for the
young because they were not developed enough to verify their true color
phase.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

53

The first evidence of nesting activity was on March 16, when two red
phase Screech Owls were found in a box with one egg. Five other pairs
started nesting in late March and two pairs started nesting in late April.
The latter two were probably second nesters. A total of six completed
nests produced 30 eggs, with an average clutch of five. Only one incubation
period was recorded and it lasted 21 days. Both the male and female of
this pair were observed incubating at different times. Only three broods
were produced from eight attempted nests. The total nest mortality was
65 percent. Most of the nest losses resulted from the nesting boxes falling
apart or falling from the trees. No predator related mortalities were
observed.

Various other species of wildlife used the boxes. The most common
was the Starling (Sturnus vulgaris). The presence of Starlings had little
effect on box usage by the Screech Owl. Several times a Screech Owl was
found in the same box with Starling eggs.

Three active Sparrow Hawk nests were found. A total of 15 eggs made
up the three clutches, with each clutch averaging five eggs. Only one
brood was produced by the time the study ended.

The near absence of Wood Ducks using the nesting boxes was a
surprise. The boxes were designed and erected for this species, but only two
pair of Wood Ducks used the boxes.

Two boxes were used by Flying Squirrels (Glaucomys volayis). A total
of nine Flying Squirrels were found, eight of them in one box. Five active
Grey Squirrel (Scinriis carolinensis) nests were observed during the month
of February. Two Grey Squirrels were seen leaving boxes, and cuttings
were found in several boxes.

The winter use of boxes was restricted to Screech Owls and Grey
Squirrels. The boxes provide good shelter from cold wet weather. During
the winter there were no recorded sightings of Flying Squirrels, Starlings,
or Sparrow Hawks using the nesting boxes. As spring arrived and the
weather warmed, the Screech Owls paired up to nest. When the spring
breeding season began for Flying Squirrels, Starlings, and Sparrow Hawks,
each moved in to compete with the Screech Owls for nesting space in the
Wood Duck nesting boxes.

Literature Cited

Bent, Arthur Cleveland

1938 Life histories of North American birds of prey. U. S. Natl. Mus.
Bull. 170.

Brown, Louis G. and Frank C. Bellrose, Jr.

1943 Use of nesting boxes for Wood Ducks by other wildlife. Jour,
of Wildlife Manageynent, 7:298-306.

Hesselschwert, Robert E.

1942 Use of den boxes in wildlife restoration on intensively farmed
areas. Jour, of Wildlife Management, 6: 31-37
Sprunt, Alexander, Jr.

1955 North American Birds of Prey. Harper and Brothers, New York.
— Ill Sunset Heights, Winchester, Ky. 40391.

54

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

1973 BIG SPRING LISTS

Four Spring Lists were submitted in time for publication this year,
and three of the counts indicated the number of individual birds as well
as species. The counting of individuals was initiated in 1972 to add greater
significance to the accumulating Spring Lists.

LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES (Area essentially the same as for
Christmas Counts — most of the LBL north of US 68, including Kentucky
Dam). May 6; 3:00 p.m. to May 7; 11:30 a.m. Cloudy with intermittent
showers and ending in steady rain. Wind gusty 5-20 m.p.h. The temperature
ranged from 60° to 80°. Total, 89 species, approximately 2,421 species.

The lake was extremely high, precluding observation of shorebird
habitat. The highlight of the count was the large and varied number of
gulls and terns. The water below Kentucky Dam flooded the road and
contained large numbers of shad, which provided food for the gulls and
terns. The birds were easily approached and observed. — Willard Gray
(compiler), Clell Peterson.

BOWLING GREEN (Area essentially the same as for the Christmas
Counts — a 15-mile diameter circle with the center Three Springs, 6 miles
south of Bowling Green). April 27; 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Cloudy with
intermittent drizzle; gusting winds during last four hours; temperature
54° to 68°. Total, 77 species, 1,383 individuals.

A large duck concentration on the transient lakes departed a few
days prior to the count, and unfavorable weather conditions reduced ob-
servation of songbirds. The Common Tern was the only unexpected bird
recorded. Dulcie Clark, Jeb Pickard, H. E. Shadowen (compiler), Jacky
Shadowen, Mike Wells.

BARREN RIVER RESERVOIR: Peter’s Creek Embayment. — April
30; 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Clear and cool. Total 87 species; individuals
were not counted.

A female Wood Duck with 12 downy young was seen. The Canvasback
was evidently crippled. Mike Barr, Rodney Farmer, Russell Starr (com-
piler).

LOUISVILLE (same as Christmas Count area). — May 6; 3:00 a.m.
to 7:30 p.m. Cloudy; temp. 51° to 68°. Total 149 species, 5,372 individuals.
Leonard Brecher, A1 Byrd, Virginia Calvert, George Crabtree, Carolene
Gresham, Burt Monroe (compiler), Catherine Noland, Ann Norman, Bernice
Shannon, Wilbur Jackson, Violet Jackson, Mabel Slack, Larry Smith, Dan
Snider, Anne Stamm, Fred Stamm, Don Summerfield.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

55

Species

Common Loon
Pied-billed Grebe
Great Blue Heron
Green Heron
Black-cr. Night Heron
Yellow-cr. Night Heron
Canada Goose
Mallard
Black Duck
Blue-winged Teal
Wood Duck
Canvasback
Lesser Scaup
Red-br. Merganser
Turkey Vulture
Black Vulture
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-sh. Hawk
Broad-winged Hawk
Osprey

Sparrow Hawk
Bobwhite
American Coot
Semipalmated Plover
Killdeer

American Woodcock
Common Snipe
Spotted Sandpiper
Solitary Sandpiper
Greater Yellowlegs
Lesser Yellowlegs
Least Sandpiper
Semipalmated Sandpiper
Herring Gull
Ring-billed Gull
Laughing Gull
Bonaparte’s Gull
Common Tern
Least Tern
Caspian Tern
Black Tern
Mourning Dove
Yellow -billed Cuckoo
Black-billed Cuckoo
Great Horned Owl
Barred Owl
Chuck-will’s-widow
Whip-poor-will
Common Nighthawk
Chimney Swift

Land Between

Bowling

Barren

the Lakes

Green

River

Louisville

1

6

1

3

1

3

2

X*

13

16

2

2

X

4

3

X

28

X

18

17

14

13

26

1

X

1

3

3

1

9

2

X

5

1

1

1

1

X

4

1

1

X

2

1

X

3

X

12

3

10

X

28

200

X

2

1

1

2

X

24

2

2

10

2

2

X

32

1

1

3

2

10

11

10

3

25

X

2

290

17

3

6

35

1

8

11

72

36

18

X

159

3

2

1

2

4

2

1

1

6

24

2

3

2

12

60

X

260

56

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

Species

Land Between

Bowling

Barren

the Lakes

Green

River

Louisvil

Ruby-th. Hummingbird

1

X

1

Belted Kingfisher

1

X

8

Yellow-sh. Flicker

4

1

X

61

Pileated Woodpecker

3

2

X

11

Red-bellied Woodpecker

12

6

X

22

Red-headed Woodpecker

X

10

Yellow-bel. Sapsucker

2

Hairy Woodpecker

X

4

Downy Woodpecker

4

2

X

14

Eastern Kingbird

2

2

X

9

Gr. Crested Flycatcher

X

29

Eastern Phoebe

2

X

5

Acadian Flycatcher

9

X

1

Traill’s Flycatcher

2

Least Flycatcher

13

Eastern Wood Pewee

2

X

13

Olive-s. Flycatcher

1

Horned Lark

3

Tree Swallow

4

40

X

4

Bank Swallow

6

20

6

Rough-winged Swallow

8

X

15

Barn Swallow

12

40

X

52

Cliff Swallow

600

Purple Martin

10

X

11

Blue Jay

25

8

X

107

Common Crow

12

12

X

82

Car. Chickadee

1

6

X

82

Tufted Titmouse

10

2

X

57

White-br. Nuthatch

5

Red-br. Nuthatch

8

House Wren

1

23

Bewick’s Wren

X

Carolina Wren

2

X

44

Short-b. Marsh Wren

3

Mockingbird

12

X

40

Catbird

1

4

X

66

Brown Thrasher

11

9

X

22

Robin

10

100

X

558

W'ood Thrush

12

X

57

Hermit Thrush

2

Swainson’s Thrush

4

65

Gray-cheeked Thrush

10

Veery

1

9

Eastern Bluebird

1

4

X

4

Blue-gr. Gnatcatcher

6

2

X

22

Ruby-cr. Kinglet

1

9

Cedar Waxwing

48

Loggerhead Shrike

1

Starling

250

200

X

1020

White-eyed Vireo

5

1

X

17

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

57

Species

Land Between

Bowling

Barren

the Lakes

Green

River

Louisvil

Yellow-throated Vireo

2

2

X

4

Solitary Vireo

4

Red-eyed Vireo

18

2

X

31

Warbling Vireo

14

Black-and-white Warbler

1

1

X

12

Prothonotary Warbler

7

1

X

2

Worm-eating Warbler

X

1

Golden -w. Warbler

4

Blue-w. Warbler

4

Tennessee Warbler

25

26

Nashville Warbler

25

Parula Warbler

4

X

1

Yellow Warbler

1

X

27

Magnolia Warbler

2

Cape May Warbler

2

3

Black-th. Blue Warbler

2

Myrtle Warbler

1

16

X

65

Black-th. Green Warbler

9

Cerulean Warbler

X

3

Blackburnian Warbler

7

Yellow-th. Warbler

X

4

Chestnut-sided Warbler

9

Blackpoll Warbler

9

Pine Warbler

X

Prairie Warbler

1

X

6

Palm Warbler

8

21

Ovenbird

X

8

Northern Waterthrush

6

Louisiana Waterthrush

1

X

9

Kentucky Warbler

8

X

7

Yellowthroat

25

2

X

43

Yellow-br. Chat

6

1

X

17

Hooded Warbler

2

2

5

Wilson’s Warbler

1

American Redstart

1

X

5

House Sparrow

6

30

X

192

Bobolink

16

9

Eastern Meadowlark

12

10

X

110

Red-winged Blackbird

300

22

X

254

Orchard Oriole

12

2

X

10

Baltimore Oriole

1

1

31

Common Crackle

200

300

X

685

Brown-h. Cowbird

100

4

X

71

Scarlet Tanager

3

1

X

11

Summer Tanager

2

X

6

Cardinal

30

35

X

250

Rose-br. Grosbeak

10

X

31

Blue Grosbeak

1

Indigo Bunting

25

4

87

58

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

Species

Land Between

Bowling

Barren

the Lakes

Green

River

Louisville

Evening Grosbeak

5

Purple Finch

12

Pine Siskin

10

American Goldfinch

12

3

X

143

Rufous-sided Towhee

6

8

X

58

Savannah Sparrow

18

Grasshopper Sparrow

3

Tree Sparrow

1

Bachman’s Sparrow

X

Slate-c. Junco

2

Chipping Sparrow

6

4

X

8

Field Sparrow

4

10

X

42

White-cr. Sparrow

6

37

White-thr. Sparrow

6

42

X

213

Lincoln’s Sparrow

3

Swamp Sparrow

X

7

Song Sparrow

4

2

183

DATE OF COUNT

May 6, 7

Apr. 27

Apr. 30

May 6

SPECIES

89

77

87

149

INDIVIDUALS

2,421

1,383

X

5,372

OBSERVERS

2

5

3

17

^Numbers of individuals not recorded.

THE 1973 ONE-DAY BALD EAGLE COUNT

Anne L. Stamm

On February 17, 1973, the Kentucky Ornithological Society mai'ked its
thirteenth consecutive year of participation in the One-Day Bald Eagle
( Haliaeetus leiicocephalus) Count conducted in cooperation with the Mis-
sissippi River Valley Bald Eagle Survey. Forty-two members and guests
checked for eagles in 15 areas ranging from Ballard County in western
Kentucky to the Licking River valley in Nicholas and Fleming counties.
They counted 44 Bald Eagles: 13 adults, 24 immatures, and 7 not classified
as to age. Although the count was down from the previous year, some ob-
servers felt that the decrease was due to the extreme cold weather (Febru-
ary 17 was the coldest day in the month). In some sections of the state the
ground was covered with snow; bays, inlets, and small bodies of water were
frozen. This latter condition may have caused the eagles to move farther
south to new fishing areas. The temperature during the day hovered from
8° to 38°; the wind, for the most part, came from the north to northeast
and ranged from 3 to 20 m.p.h.

An adult Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) was seen at very close
range near the wooded bluff along Salt River where it empties into the
Ohio River, by Violet and Wilbur Jackson. The golden feathers on the hind
neck of the bird glistened in the sunlight and were easily noted as the eagle

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

59

flew before them, at approximately 100 feet. Although Golden Eagles were
not observed on the count day at Land Between the Lakes, Clell Peterson
reported three there on February 24, the occasion of the Kentucky Depart-
ment of Park’s fourth annual Bald Eagle Workshop.

All eagles listed on the table below were observed on February 17, with
the exception of those sighted at Wolf Creek and Dale Hollow Lake. They
were seen on the following day, February 18.

Location

Adults Immatures

Ballard Waterfowl Management Area

(Ballard County) 2

Land Between the Lakes 7

Dam #50 0

Henderson County-Ohio River (by boat) 0

Ohio River from Leavenworth to Cannelton, Ind. 0
Ohio River-Rockport Ferry to mouth of

Blackford Creek 1

Ohio River below mouth of Otter Creek 1

West Point-Salt River* 0

Barren River Reservoir 0

Shippingport Island 0

Ohio River (Harrods Creek to Westport, Ky.) 0
Cumberland River- Wolf Creek Dam 1

Frogue Peninsula and adjacent areas 0

Dale Hollow Lake (Cumberland and

Clinton counties) 1

Licking River valley (Nicholas and

Fleming counties) 0

3

19

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

Not

Aged

0

2

4

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Total

5

28

4

0

0

1

3

0

0

0

0

2

0

1

0

*One Golden Eagle sighted at close range

13 24 7 44

The KOS Bald Eagle records, as usual, were sent to Elton Fawks,
chairman of the Mississippi River Valley Survey. He reported that in the
over-all count, the 450 participants tabulated 964 Bald Eagles: 663 adults,
279 immatures, and 22 not aged. The areas where these eagles were counted
included most of the Mississippi River from its source to below St. Louis,
portions of the Wisconsin River, all of the Illinois River from Ottawa to
Grafton, the Illinois Wildlife Refuges, and the state of Kentucky.

The following observers took part in the Kentucky count: Leonard C.
Brecher, A1 Byrd, Virginia Calvert, Dennis Coskren, George Crabtree,
Frances Ellis, C. L. Frazer, Jim Frazer, Marquita Gillenwater, Charles
Guthrie, Hunter Hancock, Robert Head, Phillip Hocking, Mr. and Mrs.
Wilbur Jackson, Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver, Larry Lamely, Jack
Morford, Mr. and Mrs. R. W. Moore, Robert Morris, Mrs. J. V. Muntan,
James Myatt, Raymond Nall, Ann Norman, Jim Pasikowski, Robert Patrick,
Clell Peterson, Lawrence Philpott, Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Powell, Mrs. Charles
Robertson, Lawrence Smith, Robert Smith, Dr. and Mrs. Russell Starr,
Anne L. Stamm, Frederick W. Stamm, Paul Sturm, and Bea Whalen.
9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222.

60

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

FIELD NOTES

OBSERVATIONS OF SCREECH OWLS

On the night of May 19, 1973 two other observers and I set out to
locate the nest of a Screech Owl (Otis asio). I had been in the area earlier
and had seen a young Screech Owl. We had also observed an unusual pair;
one owl w’as of the red phase and the other of the gray phase. We could
not make positive identification of the sexes of the owls, but since the red
phase owl was larger we thought it to be the female.

We arrived at the area where I had last seen the owls about 8:30 p.m.,
got out of the car and began looking for the owls. Shortly the red phased
owl thumped my head. We quickly shined our flashlight on the bird and
watched it. We were unable to find the nest, although we saw the young
Screech Owl and also the grey phased owl. — GIVEN HARPER, Chestnut
Street, Carlisle 40311.

(Ed. note: Given is 15 years of age and has great interest in birds
of prey. He was accompanied by Dr. and Mrs. Wendell R. Kingsolver.)

NEWS AND VIEWS

TWO NEW LIFE MEMBERS

We are pleased to welcome two new Life Members into our organization.
Mr. and Mrs. Albert L. Powell, Jr. of Maceo have been active participants
in the Kentucky Ornithological Society since 1950.

Mr. Powell, better known as Bert, became interested in nature at an
early age through the writing of Ernest Thompson Seton and Thorton W.
Burgess and through association with Ben and Lula Coffey and the Ten-
nessee Ornithological Society. He has enthusiastically supported the Ken-
tucky Ornithological Society through youth encouragement, participation
in bird counts and annual meetings, and contributions to The Kentucky
Warbler.

Mrs. Powell also became interested in nature study as a young child.
Later she majored in biology at Memphis State University and came under
the influence of C. E. Moore, an active T.O.S. member. It is of interest
to note that Mr. and Mrs. Powell met while traveling to a meeting of the
Tennessee Ornithological Society. Their interest and strong support of
education and conservation is acknowledged and appreciated.

* 4= 4: 4:

FALL MEETING

The Fall Meeting will be held at Kenlake State Resort Park September
28-30, 1973 and will be a joint meeting with the Kentucky Department of
Parks. If you desire to participate in the Friday evening program through
the presentation of research, observations, or slides, contact A. L. Whitt,
Jr., Biology Department, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond.

The Kentucky Warbler

(Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society)

Vol. 49 NOVEMBER, 1973 No. 4

SILO OBSERVATION POINT — LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES

IN THIS ISSUE

CLIFF SWALLOWS IN WESTERN KENTUCKY, Clell Peterson

FIFTIETH ANNUAL FALU MEETI^Q. Sister Casimir Czurles

I ■ ' ' A/ ' •

FIELD NOTES !;

63

66

72

NEWS AND VIEWS

76

62

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson

President Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Louisville

Vice-President A. L. Whitt, Jr., Richmond

Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Mary Louise Daubard

616 Rudy Lane, Louisville 40207

Recording Secretary Sister Casimir Czurles, Owensboro

Councillors :

Albert Powell, Maceo 1971-1973

Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green 1971-1973

Ramon R. lies, Owensboro 1972-1974

Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1972-1974

Retiring President Ray Nall, Murray

Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville

Staff Artist Ray Harm, Chenoa

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Organ of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. Published quarterly in
February, May, August, and November. The KENTUCKY W ARBLER is
sent to all members not in arrears for dues. Membership dues are: Active
or Regular, $3.00; Contributing, $5.00; Student, $2.00; Life, $50.00; Family,
$1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues. All
articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscrip-
;ions, memberships, and requests for back issues should be sent to the
treasurer.

Editor H. E. Shadowen, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ.,

Bowling Green 42101

Editorial Advisory Board

Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Leonard C. Brecher

OUR COVER

Dr. Ray Nall of the Tennessee Valley Authority provided the photo-
graph of the silo overlook, an excellent vantage point for observing birds
in the Land Between the Lakes.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

63

CLIFF SWALLOWS IN WESTERN KENTUCKY

Clell Peterson

On May 31 and again on June 23, 1973, I visited Cliff Swallow (Petro-
chelidon pyrrhonata) nesting sites in western Kentucky. Heavy rains
throughout the East brought Kentucky and Barkley Lakes to record highs,
destroying boat docks and washing out roads in many places and directly
affecting Cliff Swallow nesting. On May 6-7, the period of the LBL Big
Spring Count, the tailgates of the generators at both Kentucky Dam and
Barkley Dam were under water. Ordinarily the interior top angles of these
poured concrete constructions are densely packed with Cliff Swallow nests,
but because of the high water nesting could not begin in the tailgates until
later. As a consequence I counted only 256 nests in the tailgates on June 23.
I employed my usual technique of observing with a Bushnell zoom Range-
master scope from approximately river level, about 300 feet downstream
from the tailgates. At 3:00 p.m. the sun is far enough to the west to soften
the shadows within the tailgates. Even so, counting is difficult; the figures
obtained must be regarded as no more than 90% accurate and provide
something between an actual count and an index of annual fluctuation.

On the same date I counted only 124 nests in the tailgates at Barkley
Dam. There, however, the swallows had occupied other parts of the struc-
ture. A poured concrete stair leading from an observation platform to a
deck above the tailgates is used almost every year by the swallows and this
year held 96 nests on June 23. The various sheltered portions of the travel-
ing crane on top of the generator area, a seldom-used site, held 69 nests:
46 were on the north faces of the structural steel and 23 on the south side.

On May 6, Willard Gray and I observed swallows building nests on the
lock wall at Barkley Dam. This nesting occurs almost annually, the pre-
ferred site being the sheltered area under the edge of the walkway where
the gates fold back into a recess in the lock wall. Approximately 50 pairs
of swallows were carrying mud from a nearby mud flat with almost des-
perate haste. I did not check this group on May 31, but on June 23 there
was no sign of Cliff Swallow activity and no sign of mud nests. I had ob-
served in past years that nests on the lock Wall disappear; and although I
have found no one who has authorized any 'specific cleaning, lock workers
indicate that it is the custom to hose down the lock walls, nests and all. On
at least one occasion however (1969), the cleaning did not take place until
most of the first brood were out of the nests.

On the same date, while observing gulls and terns on the western side
of the Tennessee River, below Kentucky Dam, we noticed on the other side
of the river swallows flying to and from the traveling crane and other
parts of the generator superstructure, chiefly on the southwest faces. On
June 23, however, there was no swallow activity in that area nor could I
see any sign of nests. Part of the answer may be that heavy, sharply angled
rains from the south between May 6 and June 23 washed away the nests.
It is possible that swallows do not always instictively know which sites will
be protected from rain.

The extreme high water may also account for other somewhat unusual
Cliff Swallow nesting observations. The steel understructure of the bridge

64

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

over the lock at Kentucky Dam, normally used only by House Sparrows
(Passer domesticiis) and Rock Doves (Columba lima), held approximately
150 Cliff Swallow nests this year. The general expansion of the Cliff
Sw’allow range, caused presumably by an overall increase in numbers, had
already led in 1972 to the colonization of the bridge where U. S. 68 over-
passes U. S. 641, one-fourth mile from Kentucky Dam Village Inn. This
year there were approximately 175 nests under this bridge, the swallows
accommodating themselves to the fairly steady traffic on U. S. 641. Simi-
larly, but for the first time. Cliff Swallows colonized the bridge -where U. S.
62 overpasses The Trace (the road that runs the central ridge of the entire
length of the LBL). This bridge w’as only completed and opened to traffic
in the past year. Here also the swallows have to live with a steady flow of
traffic. Whether they would have nested there if the high lake levels had
not forced them out of other established sites can be only a matter of specu-
lation. On May 31 I counted approximately 27 Cliff Swallows at this site
engaged in nest building. On June 23 I counted 68 nests wuth feeding ac-
tivity at some but no young visible within the nests.

The swallow's nesting in the tailgates at the two dams obviously were
late in getting started. As I made my observations I w’as struck by a cur-
ious fact: at Barkley Dam, despite fairly random variation, there was a
tendency for the nests to be more numerous in the gates nearer shore; the
converse was true and the pattern more regular at Kentucky Dam, as the
table below shows. No conclusion is drawn from this fact.

Tail

Gates

1

2

3

4

5

6 7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14 15

Barkley nests
(12 gates)

9

14

18

6

9

10 12

8

8

8

9

13

Kentucky nests
(15 gates)

0

1

2

5

7

6 3

3

4

34

28

39

38

43 43

Another interesting observation was that the mixed colonies of Barn
Swallows (Hii~undo riistica) and Cliff Swallows under the bridge over
Little River on Ky. 274, about three miles north of U. S. 68, has now given
way to a concentration of Cliff Sw'allows. Barn Swallow's that still feed
near the bridge no longer nest under it but in nearby barns, sheds, and
docks. (I have observed a similar shift from a nesting group of mixed Barn
and Cliff Swallows to an all Cliff Swallow population in northern Minne-
sota.) Further observations of this pattern are desirable for valid conclu-
sions, but a tentative theory follow's: the Cliff Swallows, being far more
gregarious, increase in numbers to a point at which, even allow'ing for
nesting sites, the less gregarious Barn Swallows are no longer “comfort-
able.” Since both species feed on the w'ing over wide areas and at about
the same elevations, it is unlikely that competition for food is the primary
reason for Cliff Swallow dominance in areas that provide appropriate
nesting sites for both. On the other hand, the greater adaptibility of the
Barn Swallow allows it to move away from the areas close to water favored
by Cliff Swallows in this part of the country.

In addition to the swallows under the two bridges already mentioned,
I discovered several new small colonies. These are all listed below and

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

65

given identifying numbers to fit into the scheme of identification estab-
lished in my earlier paper (Kentucky Warbler, 1970, 46:1, 7-9).

A-7 The overpass, U. S. 62 crossing U. S. 641.

A-8 Bridge crossing the lock and roadway leading from the lock
observation area to the power plant at Kentucky Dam.

D-3 Bridge on U. S. 68 crossing The Trace.

D-4 Bridge crossing Prior Creek in LBL, four miles NE of Model,
Tenn.

F-6 Old bridge crossing Hurricane Creek (bypassed by new road,
just west of Ky. 274), about ten miles north of U. S. 68.

F-7 Bridge over north fork of Dryden’s Creek on Ky. 274, about 16
miles north of U. S. 68.

In addition to the newly discovered colonies noted above, I checked a
number of the other known nesting sites. In the Kentucky Dam vicinity
I found a mere 573 nests at five distinct sites (in 1971 there were 1062
nests in the tail gates alone) ; in the Barkley Dam area, 344 nests; in the
Jonathan Creek area on the west shore of Kentucky Lake, 197 nests; at the
two ends of the bridge crossing Barkley Lake on U. S. 62, 81 nests; and at
two bridges, one in the vicinity of Canton and one near Cadiz, a total of
330 nests. The number of active nests totals 1627, inactive nests (i.e., lo-
cated after the breeding season) 26, for a total of 1653. And this figure
does not include several sites that ordinarily contain very large colonies.

Apparently the Cliff Swallow population in the Land Between the
Lakes area is continuing to expand, although individual colonies fluctuate
in size annually according to various dependent factors. As the total popu-
lation increases, additional appropriate sites will no doubt continue to be
colonized.

66

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

FIFTIETH ANNUAL FALL MEETING

September 28-30, 1973

The Kentucky Ornithological Society met at Kenlake State Park the
weekend of September 28-30, 1973 in conjunction with the Ornithological
Weekend sponsored by the Kentucky Department of Parks. A joint meeting
was held at 7:30 p.m. in the recreation room of the lodge with President
Burt Monroe, Jr. presiding. Field trips were planned for the following
morning. The main Friday evening program consisted of an illustrated
lecture of the Land Between the Lakes and its birdlife. Dr. Monroe described
the Summer Breeding Bird Survey, taken to determine the rise or fall of
bird populations. He detailed the specific rules and the exact method of
conducting this census and encouraged K.O.S. members to participate. At
present there are 36 areas covered in Kentucky with a few important areas
in south central and eastern Kentucky not being covered. He mentioned
the increase in seed-eating birds with the most frequently recorded bird
being the Indigo bunting.

Dr. Clell Peterson gave a report on the Cliff Swallows. This year, due
to the damage to boat docks and marinas by the spring floods, only 124
nests instead of the usual 1,000 -|- were found. Another reason for the small
number of nests was that the tail gates at the dam were under water for a
longer time than usual. The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m.

The steady drizzle that started about midnight threatened the Saturday
field trips and resulted in the concellation of the early field trip, but ideal
birding weather prevailed for most of the weekend. Field trips were made
to selected points in the Land Between the Lakes. Some intresting birds
were observed, including an immature Bald eagle, an Osprey, and a Pere-
grine falcon. ,

A general business meeting was held at 3:40 p.m. at the Cottage Annex
with over 50 members present. Dr. Monroe gave a summary of the Board
meeting held earlier. He announced that the 1974 Spring Meeting would be
held at Bowling Green April 12-14 and the Fall Meeting at Cumberland
Falls State Park about the first week of October. Emphasis will be placed
on the Red-cockaded woodpecker, one of the endangered species, at the fall
meeting.

Dr. Ray Noll, chairman of the Nominating Committee, presented the
following list of candidates for office for 1974 :

President Burt Monroe, Jr., Louisville

Vice-president A. L. Whitt, Richmond

Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Mrs. Mary Louise Daubard, Louisville

Recording Secretary Sister Casimir Czurles, Owensboro

Counselors Mrs. Kenneth McConnell, Louisville

Dr. Russell Starr, Glasgow

The slate was approved unanimously by the membership.

Dr. Herbert Shadowen, editor of The Kentucky Warbler, made an
appeal to the members to submit articles and photographs for the publi-
cation.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

67

Mr. Leonard Brecher of the Conservation Committee gave a full report
on progress made for preservation of the Falls of the Ohio, Shipping Port
Island, and the Red River Gorge. He urged members to write Governor
Ford and Congressman Perkins, voicing their disapproval of the proposed
relocation of the controversial dam. It was moved and seconded that the
KOS request Governor Ford to reconsider his recent approval of relocating
the proposed dam. Mr. Brecher informed the members of the stand taken
by the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife on the use of lead shot by
duck hunters. Many ducks die from the ingestion of lead shot which they
scoop up with mud. It has been proposed that lead shop be banned entirely
in the United States by 1975.

Mrs. Anne Stamm gave a report on the Nesting Records and urged
all members to participate in this worthy activity. Mrs. Stamm, who is the
Kentucky representative for The American Bird, appealed to members to
report any unusual sightings of bird migration.

The financial report was given and approved. The business meeting
adjourned at 4:50 p.m.

The annual dinner was served at 6:30 p.m. in the Recreation Hall of
the Lodge. Dr. Monroe welcomed the 100 people who were present, made
announcements concerning the Sunday field trips, and introduced the
speaker for the evening, Mr. Harold Mayfield. Mr. Mayfield, a former
President of the American Ornithologists’ Union and an authority on the
Kirtland’s Warbler, presented a program entitled “The Kirtland’s Warbler,
‘Bird of Fire’, a Rare and Endangered Species.” He linked the rarity of
the bird to its narrow specialized habitat and to parasitism by cowbirds,
and he discussed work now underway to save this rare species. Mr. May-
field concluded his interesting and informative lecture with slides of the
bird and its habitat.

Sister Casimir Czurles, Recording Secretary

68

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

BIRDS RECORDED ON FIELD TRIPS AT THE
FALL MEETING, 1973

Pied-billed Grebe, Great Blue Heron (60), Green Heron, Canada Goose,
Mallard, Black Duck, Green-winged Teal, Blue-winged Teal, Wood Duck,
Turkey Vulture, Black Vulture, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-
tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Bald Eagle (1),
Marsh Hawk, Osprey (1), Peregrine Falcon (1), Pigeon Hawk, Sparrow
Hawk, Bobwhite, Semipalmated Plover, Killdeer, Spotted Sandpiper, Lesser
Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper,
Ring-billed Gull, Mourning Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Black-billed Cuckoo,
Screech Owl, Barred Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird,
Belted Kingfisher, Yellow-shafted Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Red-
bellied Woodpecker, Red-headed Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker,
Hairy Woodpecker, Downy W’oodpecker, Eastern Kingbird, Eastern Phoebe,
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Eastern Wood Pewee, Olive-sided Flycatcher,
Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, Common Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Tit-
mouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Mockingbird, Catbird,
Brown Thrasher, Robin, Wood Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Eastern Blue-
bird, Cedar Waxwing, Loggerhead Shrike, Starling, White-eyed Vireo,
Yellow-throated Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Black and White
Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Parula Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Black-
throated Green Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler,
Pine Warbler, Ovenbird, Kentucky Warbler, Yellowthroat, American Red-
start, House Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Redwinged Blackbird, Common
Crackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Scarlet Tanager, Summer Tanager, Card-
inal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, American Goldfinch, Rufous-
sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow. Total — 99 species.

ATTENDANCE AT THE FALL MEETING, 1973

ANCHORAGE: Dr. and Mrs. G. E. Heilemann, Dr. and Mrs. Burt L.
Monroe, Jr.

BLANDVILLE: Newton 0. Belt.

BOWLING GREEN: Blaine R. Ferrell, Dr. L. Y. Lancaster, Mrs. Jerome
Ramsey, Dr. and Mrs. Herb Shadowen, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Skillern,
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Wilson.

CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. W. R. Kingsolver, Ann Kingsolver, Given
Harper.

CLINTON: Larry Wilson.

FRANKFORT : Mr. and Mrs. Howard Jones.

GEORGETOWN: Mr. and Mrs. Glen R. Wells.

JACKSON: Mr. and Mrs. Pierre Allaire.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

69

LEXINGTON: Mrs. Woodrow Feck, Harold L. Frazier, Deborah Breen,
Mr. and Mrs. Lou Boyarsky, Amy Boyarski, Mrs. G. L. Burns, Dr. and
Mrs. Algie Reece.

LOUISVILLE; Amelia B. Alford, Susie Biven, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard
Brecher, Virginia Calvert, Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Clay, Mrs. M. L. Dau-
bard, Doris Garst, Mrs. H. H. Hummel, Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth McCon-
nell, Dottie Muntan, Jim Pasikowski, Irvine Rommel, Evelyn J. Schnei-
der, Larry Smith, Dr. and Mrs. Fred Stamm, Mr. and Mrs. Donald
Summerfield, Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Susie, Olga Tafel, Lois VonAllmen,
Audrey Wright.

MACEO: Mr. and Mrs. Bert Powell.

MADISONVILLE : Thelma Gentry, Mrs. Sue Place, Mr. and Mrs. N. W.
Travis, Mrs. Irene Wells.

MURRAY : Gerald Carter, Dr. and Mrs. Hunter Hancock, C. Wesley Kem-
per, Dr. and Mrs. Ray Nall, Dr. Clell Peterson, Mr. and Mrs. Carl
Wallschlaeger, Maurice Humphrey, Paul W. Sturm.

OWENSBORO: Lois Black, Sister Casimir Czurles, Mary Lydia Green-
well, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond lies, Emogene Lashbrook, Margaret Med-
ley, Wynema Sims, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Wilson.

PADUCAH: Corbin Meriweather.

RICHMOND: A. L. Whitt.

SHEPHERDSVILLE: Woodrow Masden.

VALLEY STATION: Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Ellison.

BOONEVILLE, IND. : Mr. and Mrs. Willard Gray, Donald Andrews.

TOLEDO, OHIO: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Ma3rfield.

70

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

REPORT OF THE TREASURER

September 28, 1973

GENERAL FUND

Balance brought forward $1540.15

Receipts

Membership dues $1331.75

Interest Income: Jefferson Federal Savings & Loan
Assn, on Full-Paid Shares ($700.00), Gordon Wilson
Memorial Fund Interest, Interest on Savings Cert.

Colonial Federal.

Total Interest $ 152.74

Sales: Publications, Checklists, etc $ 295.99

Fall Meetings, 1972 $ 288.45

Spring Meeting, 1973 $ 840.80 2909.73

TOTAL $4449.88

Disbursements

Printing: The Kentucky Warbler, 4 issues and By-laws $1369.93
Supplies and Postage 194.58

Contribution: Nature Conservancy 10.00

Transfer to Endowment Fund

Three Life Memberships . 150.00

Expenses, Fall Meeting, 1972 335.75

Expenses, Spring Meeting, 1973 979.14

Refunds for cancelled reservations 23.10

Beckham Bird Club, Membership Transfer 1.00

Total Disbursements 3063.50

Receipts $4449.88

Disbursements 3063.50

Bal. Fwd. 1386.38

ENDOWMENT FUND

Balance in Savings Account, Jefferson Federal

Savings & Loan Assn., Louisville, Ky. $ 889.74

Seven Full paid Shares 700.00

Colonial Federal Savings and Loan Assoc.

Cert. #D 282 @ 5%% 1000.00 2589.70

Receipts

Interest on Full paid Shares 35.20

Interest on Savings Account 64.76

Interest on Certificate 58.77

Three Life Memberships 150.00 308.73

TOTAL

2898.47

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

71

Disburgements

Transfer of Interest on 7 Full-paid Shares 35.20

Balance in Fund 2863.27

TOTAL 2898.47

Balance in Savings Acct., Sept. 28, 1973 1093.45

Seven Full-paid Shares 700.00

Savings Cert. Colonial Fed. Savings & Loan Assn. 1000.00

TOTAL 2793.45

THE GORDON WILSON FUND FOR ORNITHOLOGY

Balance in Savings Account, Greater Louisville

Savings & Loan Assn 314.35

Certificate, #D 281, @ 5%% from

Colonial Federal Savings & Loan Assoc. 1000.00 1314.35

Interest on Savings Account 16.12

Interest on Certificate 68.77 74.89

Assets

Balance in Savings Account 330.47

Certificate #D 281 in Colonial Federal Savings

and Loan Assoc., Louisville, Ky. 1000.00

Interest on Certificate 58.77

Total 1389.24

BALANCE SHEET
September 28, 1973

Assets:

Cash in General Fund, First National Bank,

Louisville, Ky. $1386.38

Endowment Fund, Jefferson Federal Savings &

Loan Assn. Louisville, Ky. 1793.45

Savings Certificate in Colonial Federal

Savings & Loan Assn. 1000.00 2793.45

Gordon Wilson Fund for Ornithology

Greater Louisville Savings & Loan Assn. 330.47

Colonial Federal Savings & Loan Assn. 1000.00

Interest on certificate 58.77 1389.24

Total Assets: September 28, 1973 5569.07

Mary Louise Daubard, Treasurer

72

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

FIELD NOTES

A FLOCK OF MISSISSIPPI KITES IN WESTERN KENTUCKY

On June 17, 1973 while birding on the Kentucky side of the Reelf oot
National Wildlife Refuge, I was pleasantly surprised to see a Mississippi
Kite (Ictinia misisippie7isis) gliding effortlessly and low overhead. The
bird was in adult plumage: white head, grayish breast, gray back, w’hite
rectangular bar in the secondaries, and a black tail. The location of this
sighting was near the w^est end of the refuge road where it joins Fulton
County 1282; this is approximately 4500 feet north of the Tennessee line. I
then turned around and saw more kites. I carefully searched the sky with
my binoculars and counted (several times) 30 birds of this species. As I
faced north there were 24 birds to the east and six to the west of me. They
w'ere scattered loosely in layers with several groups of 3-4 birds. The day
was clear and hot with light winds. A number of dragonflies were in the
air and some rather high. It seemed to me that this large number of Missis-
sippi Kites of sufficient interest to record. — MICHAEL LEE BIERLY,
3826 Bedford Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37215.

DUNLIN AT REELFOOT LAKE

A group from Nashville birded the Reelfoot Lake area April 7, 1973.
In the Reelfoot Lake National Wildlife Refuge on the Kentucky side a
single Dunlin (Erolia alpina) was recorded. It w'as slightly smaller than
the Pectoral Sandpipers (Erolia ynelanotos) which were feeding beside it at
times; back light gray, breast gray with fine streaks; legs coal black; bill
black and long with noted droop at tip; bird was observed at 40 feet for
five minutes w'ith binoculars and scope by five observers. — MICHAEL
LEE BIERLY, 3826 Bedford Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee 37215.

CATTLE EGRETS IN HENDERSON COUNTY

Two Cattle Egrets (BitbiilcHS ibis) were observed feeding in a fescue
pasture beside State Highway 268 approximately two and a half miles
northwest of Geneva, Kentucky in Henderson County. The date was May 2,
1973 and the time was 3:30 p.m. Black angus cattle were grazing nearby.
The birds walked about and one flew a short distance to a wet corner of
the field. One was observed devouring a crayfish that it plucked out of the
ground. The observations were made by Game Biologists Ben Burnley and
Lee Nelson of the Kentucky Depai’tment of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
— LEE K. NELSON, R. R. 3, Owensboro 42.301.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

73

BREEDING JUVENILE MOURNING DOVE

A breeding juvenile female Mourning Dove (Zenaidura macroura) was
killed on the Twin Eagle Wildlife Area in Owen County September 1, 1971.
According to Biologist Dan Russell, this was the first such bird to be
collected in Kentucky. The dove had replaced eight of the ten primary wing
feathers and nine of the primary coverts. This indicates a hatching date
between April 28 and May 21. Thickened glandular areas on the crop indi-
cated that this bird was producing “pigeon milk” to feed young. Of 14
doves examined on this date, nine had the developed “pigeon milk” glands
to feed young. — James Durell and Dan Russell.

A FEEDING HABIT OF THE EASTERN KINGBIRD

Various reports in the literature indicate that some birds are quite
resourceful in obtaining new food supplies. In the summers of 1971, 1972,
and 1973 I have repeatedly observed the Eastern Kingbird (Tyrannus ty-
rannus) feeding on insects flushed up by a lawnmower. Sometimes a pair
of Kingbirds perched on the telephone wire, apparently waiting for insects
to be stirred up. They dove down and caught the insects in flight wdth their
beaks. They actually caught insects in midair underneath the handle bars
of the mower while the mower was being pushed by its owner. The insects
eaten were often various types of moths. Thus, the Eastern Kingbird was
observed in a feeding habit that demonstrates adaptability. — L. P. ELLI-
OTT, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green 42101.

ADDITIONAL WINTER RECORD OF THE
BALTIMORE ORIOLE IN KENTUCKY

During mid-morning of January 22, 1973 a female Baltimore Oriole
(Icterus galbula) was observed in the tree near our bird feeder in Rich-
mond, Madison County, Kentucky. It was observed twice among feeding
Starlings and House Sparrows. The latest fall dates for this species as in-
dicated by Mengel in The Birds of Kentucky (1965) were in October, 1945
and 1946 at Louisville. He also reported that a female Baltimore Oriole was
taken at Louisville on January 2, 1953. — JACLYN R. and EUGENE E.
SCHROEDER, Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky Uni-
versity, Richmond, Kentucky 40475.

YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD AT LEXINGTON

On August 24, 1973, 5:30 p.m., at the intersection of Paris Pike and
New Circle Road, a friend and I saw a male Yellow-headed Blackbird
(Xanthocephalus xanthocephahis). The solitary bird flew along the road
toward our traffic-stalled car, thus assuring identification. — ALBERT
WESTERMAN, Department of Zoology, University of Kentucky, Lexing-
ton 40506.

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Vol. 49

ALBINO EVENING GROSBEAK

During the week of April 23, 1973 a male albino Evening Grosbeak
(Hesperiphona vespertina) was twice noted by five observers in the Valley
Station, Kentucky area. The bird was first seen while feeding on sunflower
seed by Mrs. A. S. Steilberg, Jr. in southwest Jefferson County. On the
following Sunday it was observed at the feeder of Mr. and Mrs. Don Sum-
merfield. The bird was a brilliant canary yellow with translucent white
wings and tail. The bill appeared slightly lighter than in a normal bird and
was without the greenish cast noted on most birds. The eyes appeared
normal. The bird was not seen again and probably left with the bulk of the
flock of 75-100 the following week. — WALTER ELLISON, 10108 Stone
St. Road, Valley Station 40272.

EVENING GROSBEAK OBSERVATION

A large number of Evening Grosbeaks (Hesperiphona vespertina) was
observed in Muldraugh, Kentucky and the Fort Knox Reservation on March
25, 1973. The numbers were somewhat reminiscent of those witnessed in the
fall and winter of 1961-62. Seventeen birds were observed in the early
morning feeding on the buds of apple trees. In the evening at approximately
7:00 p.m. a flock of 64 was noted in a grove of wild plums feeding on the
flower buds. — ALBERT WESTERMAN, Department of Zoology, Univer-
sity of Kentucky, Lexington 40506.

OBSERVATION AT RED RIVER GORGE

On February 24, 1973 near the Chimney Rock parking area in the Red
River Gorge, my wife and I noticed a very active flock of small birds in
an oak tree. We were able to approach closely and identified them as a
group of eight Red Crossbills (Loxia curvirostra). The distinctive red of
the two males was the most obvious initial field mark. The characteristic
crossed bill was difficult to distinguish at first due to the lighting. Three
of the birds were females with buffy yellow coloration, and the remaining
three were immature with red mottling. Their activity seemed to consist of
social interactions rather than food gathering since they were in a dormant
deciduous tree. They were very vocal and tame.

In late afternoon of the same day we watched a gathering of Turkey
Vultures (Cathartes aura) and Black Vultures (Coragyps atratus) over
the Swift Creek bluffs by Sky Bridge. At one period we estimated 500-600
birds were soaring and wheeling in the area. Uusing a 45X scope we were
able to determine that the highest flyers were the Black Vultures. The
birds remained in the vicinity for approximately one and a half hours and
then gradually dispersed as slowly as they had massed. — ANDREW H.
UTERHART, 1529 South Limestone Street, Levington 40503.

1973

THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

75

JUNCO WITH MALFORMED BILL

On March 3, 1971 1 captured an adult male Slate-colored Junco (Junco
hyemalis) with an unusual bill abnormality. The mandibles were crossed —
more so than in Crossbills (Loxia curvirostra). The lower mandible, with
the forepart missing and leaving a jagged edge, had grown sharply to the
right of the upper mandible. The upper mandible, near its base, was slight-
ly slit and the tip was blunted. The bird appeared to be healthy and active,
although it remained somewhat aloof from the other seed-eating species.
How the bird managed to pick up weed seeds was a mystery. The small
Junco appeared in one of my banding traps again on March 24, 1972 and
thus was managing to survive despite its bill deformity. — ANNE L.
STAMM, 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222.

BALD EAGLE SIGHTING AT THE FALL MEETING

On September 29, 1973 at the Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornitholog-
ical Society, 30 members in a group led by Dr. Clell Peterson observed an
immature Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephaliis). The location was north
of the bridge over Pryor Creek in the Land Between the Lakes. This is an
early sighting of Bald Eagles in the LBL since no active nests have been
reported in the area since the 1940’s, and these birds are primarily found
only as winter residents. In general they are here from November 1 to
April 1, reaching a peak in numbers in mid-February. — Mrs. WENDELL
KINGSOLVER, Carlisle, Kentucky.

UNUSUAL BIRD CONCENTRATION AT TRANSIENT LAKE

The Chaney transient lake near Bowling Green contained water until
early August in 1973. On August 1 my wife and I observed several bird
species in the vicinity, including 32 Black Terns (Chlidonias niger), both
adults and immature birds. On August 11 the lake was less than one acre
in size, and thousands of small dead fish and tadpoles as well as many live
ones were seen. Birds observed in the immediate area included 40 Turkey
Vultures, 51 Green Herons, 1 Great Blue Heron, 6 Mallard, 2 Blue-winged
Teal, 4 Wood Ducks, 30 Pectoral Sandpipers, 2 Greater Yellowlegs, and 2
Killdeer. — H. E. SHADOWEN, Biology Dept., Western Kentucky Univ.,
Bowling Green 42101.

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THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

Vol. 49

NEWS AND VIEWS

SEMINARS IN ORNITHOLOGY

A home study course in Ornithology is now available through the
Laboratory of Ornithology at Cornell University. The Laboratory offers
in nine seminars a college-level course in Bird Biology to be studied at
home. Each seminar is written by a leading American ornithologist, with
Olin S. Pettingill, Jr. as editor. A certificate signed by the Director of the
Laboratory of Ornithology is received upon completion of the course. For
more information contact the Laboratory of Ornithology, Cornell Univer-
sity, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, New York 14850.

INFORMATION FOR CONTRIBUTORS TO
THE KENTUCKY WARBLER

The Editor solicits original research articles (not published elsewhere),
field notes, and photographs concerning birds in Kentucky and conservation
as it affects birds. Material is welcomed from nonmembers as well as mem-
bers of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. The Kentucky Warbler is
published quarterly and printed in multiples of four pages (e.g. 8, 12, 16,
etc.). Because of this, articles are not always published in the issue follow-
ing their arrival.

If possible, manuscripts should be typewritten and double-spaced.
Photographs should be sharp, have good contrast, be on glossy black-and-
white paper, and should be approximately 5x7 or 8x10 inches in size. Every
contribution will be carefully considered by the editor.

IN MEMORIAM

Miss Helen Gill
Dr. E. Max Wheeler

1 .-.-r

Date

Loaned

Borrower':

Kentucky Warbler

v.^6-50. 1970