CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 1924 068 444 425 DATE DUE GAYLORD PRINTED IN U.S.A. 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They flew across the river past the western tip of Sand Island to the north bank of the river. — Blaine R. Ferrell (compiler), Marquita Gillenwater, Wayne Mason, Joey McCombs, H. E. Shadowen. GLASGOW (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center the Barren County Courthouse). Habitat as described previously. Jan. 1; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky heavy overcast; temp. 69 to 39° F; wind S, 5-15 m.p.h., gusting to 30 m.p.h. in the a.m. and N, 10-15 m.p.h., gusting to 20 m.p.h. in the p.m. There was a steady driving rain in the morning. Five observers in four parties. Total party-hours 34 (26 on foot, 8 by car). Total party -miles 142 (14 on foot, 128 by car). Total species 53; total individuals 2,882. A cold, driving rain and decreasing temperatures throughout the morning hampered birding efforts. Gulls continue to be well represented at Barren River Reservoir, but ducks were noticeably absent on the count day. — Marquita Gillenwater, Mr. and Mrs. Howard M. Jones, Wayne M. Mason (compiler), Dr. Russell R. Starr. OTTER CREEK PARK (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center two miles southwest of the park entrance, to include fields and small lakes outside the park.) Habitat: brushy fields 38%, fields and pastures 28%, deciduous woods 18%, creeks, lakes and river 12%, towns 4%. Dec. 22; 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky mostly clear to clear; temp. 38 to 41° F; wind W, 13 m.p.h. Creeks, lakes and the river were high and the ground was soggy. Thirteen observers in six parties. Total party-hours 51 (24 on foot, 27 by car). Total party-miles 295 (22 on foot, 273 by car). Total species 62; total individuals 6,113. Most notable this count was the sighting of a Mountain Bluebird by B. Palmer-Ball, Jr., Richard Cassell and Diane Ebel; two other parties were alerted and subsequently observed them. This is a state record. The same party found the Grasshopper Sparrows. Carolina Chickadees, Tufted Tit¬ mice, Golden-crowned Kinglets and Cedar Waxwings were in lower num¬ bers than last year, whereas, Eastern Bluebirds, Field and White-throated Sparrows were up considerably. — Richard Cassell, Diane Ebel, John Get- good, Frank and John Krull, Barry Nichols, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, Helga Schutte, F. W. and Anne Stamm (compiler), Donald Summerfield. BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974). Jan. 1; 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 45 to 63° F; wind S-NW, 9- 44 m.p.h. There were intermittent periods of rain in the a.m. Twelve ob¬ servers in five parties. Total party-hours 52 (24.5 on foot, 27.5 by car). Total party-miles 309 (15.5 on foot, 293.5 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 13,276. High winds made birding very difficult. The male House Finch was a count record. The immature Bald Eagle was observed at a small lake southwest of the forest. — Brad Andres, Mary Bill Bauer, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Wayne Dahl, Sarah McClellan, Barry Nichols, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Jim Pasikowski, Helga Schutte, L. D. Smith, Stephen Washburn. LOUISVILLE (center and habitat as described in 1972). Dec. 16; 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy; temp. 54 to 72° F; wind SW, 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 3-15 m.p.h. Twenty-nine observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 92 (48 on foot, 44 by car). Total party-miles 48 (51 on foot, 437 by car). Total species 82 ; total individuals 124,562. Generally a very poor year and poor day. Windy conditions made birding difficult. The Ohio River was high and thus species of waterfowl and gulls were down. Generally mild weather in December was probably responsible for low numbers of northern finches. The only item of real interest is that House Finches continue to in¬ crease in the region. No verified rarities were reported. ■ — Garrett Adams, Mary Bauer, John Callahan, Kathryn Clay, Jackie Elmore, Doris Garst, F. H., F. X., John and Mary Krull, Burt Monroe, Jr. (compiler), Mark Monroe, Kay Mudd, Dot Muntan, E. T. and J. R. Noonan, Brainard Palmer- Ball, Jr., Jim Pasikowski, Martha Pike, Robert Quaife, Lene Rauth, Ginny Rommel, Carl Schultz, Helga Schutte, L. D. Smith, Anne and F. W. Stamm, Midge Susie, Scottie Theiss (Beckham Bird Club). SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center three-quarters of a mile south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on Ky. 714). Habitat: elevation 640’ to 1190’, farmland, fallow land, suburban, woodland and grassland. Dec. 29; 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 57 to 65° F; wind S, 9-22 m.p.h. Two observers in one party. Total party- hours 10.5 (2.5 on foot, 7.5 by car). Total party-miles 151 (1 on foot, 150 by car). Total species 46; total individuals 1,827. The absence of vultures was unusual. — John Brown and W. H. Brown (compiler) . FRANKFORT (center and habitat as described in 1972). Dec. 22; 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 38 to 55° F; wind W, 4-14 m.p.h. Water open, streams almost flooding. Eighteen observers in 12 parties. Total party-hours 72 (40 on foot, 32 by car). Total party-miles 418 (40 on foot, 378 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 7,660. The steady wind kept down the numbers of species, especially wood¬ peckers. This count tends to document the apparent continuing decline of American Kestrels and vultures. Eastern Bluebirds, Northern Mocking¬ birds and Carolina Wrens seem to have stabilized in numbers near former levels. We had a higher than usual count for Golden-crowned Kinglets. Our unusual finds, the immature Black-crowned Night Heron by Jim Rettig and the female Merlin by W. H. Brown, were observed at length at close range. — W. H. Brown, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Marc and Sherri Evans, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Howard Jones (compiler), Jeff Jones, Margaret LaFontaine, Lynne Mekus, Robert Morris, Marla Nunnally, Glenn Raleigh, Jim Rettig, Teresa Rollins, Jim Williams, Tim Williams. KLEBER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (center and habitat as described in 1972). Dec. 29; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy; temp. 62 to 68° F; wind SW, 12-18 m.p.h. All water was open. Five ob¬ servers in two parties. Total party-hours 14 (9 on foot, 5 by car). Total party-miles 135 (8 on foot, 127 by car). Total species 43; total individuals 2,437. A good winter food crop accounted for the presence of American Robins, Cedar Waxwings and Purple Finches, but the wind kept the num¬ bers of woodpeckers and sparrows down. The best find was the Horned Grebe on Elmer Davis Lake despite boatloads of fishermen moving about. 12 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Yellow- rumped Warblers were in good numbers and apparently Carolina Wrens have made a comeback in Owen County. Brad Andres spent one-half hour owling and called up the two E. Screech Owls. — Brad Andres, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Howard Jones (compiler), Sarah McClellan. LEXINGTON (all opints within a 15-mile diameter circle, center east Hickman on Tates Creek Pike). Habitat: as described in 1972. Dec. 15; 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 55 to 72° F; wind S, 3-5 m.p.h. Forty-five observers in eight parties. Total party -hours 64.5 (22 on foot, 42.5 by car). Total party-miles 370 (23 on foot, 347 by car). Total species 89; total individuals 37,321. Best day we have ever had ! Best weather we’ve ever had ! There seemed to be plenty of food for the birds. — Brad Andres, Bill Barbour, Roger W. Barbour, Earl Boggs, Gary Boggs, Mike Boggs, Pat Boggs, Ann Bradley, Bonnie Bradley, Gene Bradley, Karen Cannon, Rose Cannon, Carol Chambers, Susan Chron, Manton Cornett, Ron Duncan, Lyda Feck, Jean Flynn, Mike Flynn, John Glickson, Overton Green, Virginia Hougham, Ruth Housic, Edna Huddle, Ray Huddle, Betty Maxon, Sarah McClellan, Robert Morris (compiler), Tom Rae, Glen Raleigh, Algie Reece, Jerry Reece, Phil Roca, Marie Sutton, Flow Tandy, Tony Tandy, Andy Utterhart, Marian Utterhart, Sally Wasielewski, Clara Weiland, Glen Wells, Jim Williams, Mike Williams, Tim Williams, Bernice Wood. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse). Habitat: Residential 10%, Lakeside 10%, Woodland 19%, Farmland 45%, Streamside 15%, Parks 1%. Dec. 15; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 60 to 72° F; wind calm. Record high tempera¬ ture. Twenty-nine observers in nine parties. Total party-hours 61 (25 on foot, 36 by car). Total party-miles 437 (25 on foot, 412 by car). Total species 66; total individuals 8,618. — Chauncey Alcock, Joe Amburgey, Ernie Baird, Harry and Molly Caldwell, Ken Dickey, Neil (compiler) and Scott Eklund, Mrs. Tom and Tobin Foster, John Gower, JoAnn and Mike Hamm, Morton Hoagland, Jack Kellam, J. W. Kemper, Dan MacDonald, Mike Marsh, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, John B. Nichols, Mary and Rob Pendygraft, Les Reid, Louise Robinson, Joe Russell, Joan V. G. Smith, Charles Vahlkamp, Gordon Winsor. BURLINGTON (center and habitat as described in 1975). Dec. 29; 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky overcast, cloudy; temp. 59 to 66° F; wind SE, 10-25 m.p.h. Fifteen observers in four parties. Total party-hours 29 (14 on foot, 15 by car). Total party-miles 165 (8 on foot, 157 by car). Total species 42; total individuals 3,723. Gusty winds made finding birds difficult. Waterfowl were in particu¬ larly low numbers, while the large number of American Robins was most unusual for this area. — Mike Andrews, Joanne Conradi, Stan Hirtle, Bill Jacoby, Carolyn Johnson, John Johnson, Ed Kennedy, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (compiler), Lynda McNeely, Brenda Ross, George Schoen, Carmen Schulte, Tommy Stephens, Carolyn VanHuss. ROWAN COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Morehead). Habitat: mixed hardwood, lake shores, meadows, fields, Minor Clark Fish Hatchery and Cave Run Lake. Dec. 26; 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sky mostly clear; temp. 20 to 42° F; wind E, 0-3 m.p.h. Four observers in three pai’ties. Total party-hours 10 (2 on foot, 8 by car). Total party- 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 miles 66 (2 on foot, 64 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 1,215. Unusual early winter season — there were very few waterfowl on the lake, and a lower than usual number of winter residents and visitors. — Fred Busroe (compiler), Joanna Busroe, Margaret Heaslip, A1 Surmont. PERRY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Ronnyman. Habitat: woodland and woodland edge. Jan. 1; 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sky cloudy with rain; temp. 50 to 60° F; wind gusting to 20 m.p.h. Four observers in one party. Total party-hours 12 (10 on foot, 2 by car). Total party-miles 30 (3 on foot, 27 by car). Total species 33; total individuals 297. Gusty, rainy weather made for a poor day and seemed to keep wood¬ peckers and birds of prey inactive. — Dennis Sandlin, Wayne Sladek, Ben¬ jamin and Donnie R. Spencer (compiler). THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1984 Anne L. Stamm The fall season was very mild with the average temperature in Oc¬ tober 6.2 degrees above normal. In Louisville on October 26 it was 17 degrees above normal for that date, according to the Weather Bureau. No frosts were apparent in central Kentucky until November 7. Rainfall during August and November was much above normal. The warm weather seemed to retard southward migration. A number of species lingered well beyond normal departure dates and winter residents were late in arriving. There were no signs of an influx of northern species. Loons through Cormorants — Common Loons were reported from Oc¬ tober 24 to November 25 at Louisville, Taylorsville Lake, Lexington, Fish¬ ing Creek Recreational Area (hereafter FCRA) and Cave Run Lake with a high of 35 at the latter location (FB). Pied-billed Grebes were fairly wide¬ spread and peaked at Lake Pewee with 114 on October 29 (JH) and 49 at Lexington, September 26 (BA). Horned Grebes were scarce and reported in low numbers from October 24-November 30 ; 20 was the high at Louis¬ ville, November 5 (BPB) and “numerous” at Dale Hollow, November 25 (RS). Double-crested Cormorants were reported from Honker Lake, Jon¬ athan Creek, Louisville, Lexington and Green River, with the earliest at Louisville on August 3 (LR) and the highest number there — 17 — on October 25 (BPB). Herons — Great Blue Herons were widespread and more numerous than usual : high counts included 63 in the shallows of Lake Barkley on November 16 (CP), and 50+ at Lake #9, Fulton County, August 27 (BPB, BN, S. Washburn). Smaller numbers were: 14-18 in the Lexington area, November 17-25 (MF), 15 at East Bend, October 28 (LMc), 13 at Mayfair Basins, November 16 (DN) and singles as late as November 30 and De¬ cember 1 at Lentz’s Pond and Prospect (S, JK, respectively). The Great Egret was reported all across the state from Fulton County to Bell County (m.ob.), with greatest concentrations of 500 at Lake #9 on August 27 and 350 on September 1 (BPB, BN, et al.) ; singles lingered at Burnside State Park until November 7 (JE1) and at Lexington, November 17 (MF). A Snowy Egret was present on the Falls of the Ohio (hereafter Falls) on 14 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 August 5 (JE1, JC) and apparently remained through September 11 (m. ob.); one at Ballard Waterfowl Management Area (hereafter BWMA), eight at Lake #9, August 27 and three at the latter location on September 1 (BN, BPB, et al.) . An immature Little Blue Heron arrived at the Falls on August 15 (BN) and remained until August 26; 53 at BWMA, 125 at Lake #9 on August 27 (BN, BPB, S. Washburn) and 125 at the latter location, September 1 (BPB, R. Cassell); one at Clark Hatchery, Septem¬ ber 18-21 (FB). At least four nests of Cattle Egret were discovered on August 18 at Shippingport Island (SE, BPB) ; about 30 there each evening from September 5 until late September and 15-20 still present on October 11 (BPB) ; 50 flying over Lake #9, August 27 and 200 on September 1 (BPB, BN, et al.) ; singles noted at Clark Hatchery, October 3-7 (FB) at FCRA on October 21 (JE1) and below Kentucky Dam on November 29, a late date (CP). There was an increase in the number of Green-backed Herons with a high count of 30 at the Falls, August 5 (JE1, JC) and 26 at Clai’k Hatchery, September 4 (FB). A total of 196 Black-crowned Night Herons was the high for the period at Me Alpine Dam, August 16 (LR) ; three lingered until October 27 at the Mouth of Bear Grass Creek (S, FS) and one there October 28 (JL). A single Yellow-crowned Night Heron at the Falls on August 8 was the only one reported (BN). Waterfowl — Although 40 Snow Geese had reached BWMA by October 10 some 700 were there at the end of the month and the flock peaked at 4000 in late November (TY). The first migrating flock of 100 Canada Geese arrived at BWMA on September 15, and the flock increased to 2500 by October 10, some 7000 by the end of October and peaked at 12000 No¬ vember 30 (TY). The duck migration was late and generally light. The mild fall offered little inducement for southern flight and when they came they passed through rather quickly, except in western Kentucky, where most of the winter ducks congregate. Only 30 migrating ducks had reached BWMA by October 10, 2500 on October 30 and 6500 by November 30 (TY). The duck populations at BWMA and the lower river bottoms were signi¬ ficantly smaller than in recent years, according to Tom Young, manager of BWMA. The duck migration was evident at Waitsboro and near Burn¬ side State Park on November 2 when 1000+ were seen. The rafts included Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, some American Widgeon, Ring-necked and Ruddy Ducks; all ducks were gone the following day (JE1). Highest numbers of Puddle ducks reported included 150 Black Ducks at Cave Hill Cemetery, November 30 (S, FS) and 103 at Lexington, November 22 (BA) ; 65 Green¬ winged Teal at Lexington Reservoir, November 9 (BA); 55 Blue-winged Teal at the Falls, September 22 (BN), 90 at Mayfair Basins, October 4 (BPB) ; a raft of 150 Gadwall and American Widgeon, September 24 at Six Mile Island (DN) and 100 Wood Ducks at Mayfair Basins, November 2 (BN). Gadwall were more numerous at Bowling Green than usual (WM). Ring-necked Ducks peaked at Lake Pewee on November 23 with 260 and 200 at Hematite Lake, November 26 and 29 (CP). Canvasbacks were scarce with only a high of 25 at Hematite Lake (CP) ; a drake in molt at the Falls from September 3 until October 21 was most unusual (BPB). A male Greater Scaup was seen at Lexington on October 29 and November 23 (BA). Some migratory movement of Lesser Scaups noted at Lexington, October 24 with 345 birds (BA), 300+ at Louisville, October 29 (JL) and 200+ at Jonathan Creek, October 30 (CP). An interesting flock of three species of scoters was present on the Ohio River at Cox’s Park, October 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 15 24 (LR) : four Black Scoters, nine Surf and one White-winged (BPB, LR). There were also two to three other Black Scoters present on the River (DN, BPB) and three Surf the following day (BPB, DN). A noteworthy record included two White-winged Scoters at Waitsboro Recreational Area, November 2 (JE1) ; four were also at Towhead Island, November 5 (JC). Although most ducks arrived later than usual ; a single Common Goldeneye was early at Louisville, November 2 (DN). Flocks of 20 Hooded Mergan¬ sers at Lake Pewee and 25 at Lexington were seen in late November (JH, BA, respectively). Ruddy Ducks were fairly widespread with a high count of 75 at Lake Pewee’ November 23 (JH). Hawks — Except for a fairly good Broad-winged Hawk and Turkey Vulture movement, this fall’s southward migration was not exciting. Black Vultures were recorded in above normal numbers at Clark Hatchery where 98 were seen on October 12 and averaged 27 birds on 10 visits. Eighty Turkey Vultures were observed over a farm in east Louisville, October 18 (BPB) and about 100 or more in the vicinity of Lentz’s Pond, November 3 (BBC), at least 50 there the following day (S) and a maximum of 285 at Clark Hatchery, November 8 (FB). One to two Ospreys were reported from eight localities between September 6 and November 1 (m. ob. ). Two Mississippi Kites were seen along the Mississippi River, Carlisle County and three at BWMA, August 27 (BPB, BN, S. Washburn) and one at Reelfoot Lake, Fulton County, September 8 (BN). Single Bald Eagles re¬ turned by late September to the Falls (LR, DN), Dale Hollow (CS) and Nolin Lake (KC); October and November arrivals were seen at BWMA (TY), Rough River (KC), Cumberland Lake (CS), Cumberland Gap (BA) and Cave Run Lake (FB), and there were eight (5 ad., 3 im.) at Dale Hol¬ low, November 24 (RS) and 15 at BWMA, November 30 (TY). Single Northern Harriers were reported from Madisonville (JH), Owensboro (RI), Louisville (BN, BBC), Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area (hereafter CKWMA — GR), Carter Caves State Park (LMc), Clark Hatchery (FB), and six at Cumberland Gap (BA). Single Sharp- shinned Hawks were recorded at six locations (m. ob.), and while hawk watching at Cumberland Gap, four were seen on October 1 (S, DS, FS), 10 on September 23 and nine on October 14 (BA). Few Cooper’s Hawks were reported, but seven were in migration over Cumberland Gap, October 1 (S, DS, FS). A fair movement of Broad-winged Hawks was noticed as several hundred passed over southwestern Jefferson County during the week of September 10 (DS) ; about 30 in Oldham County, September 16 (JC) and 40 on the same date at Cumberland Gap (RM) ; a count of 98 at the latter location, September 23 (BA) and 10 there October 1 (S, DS, FS). Rough-legged Hawks were scarce with only four sightings of single birds: Boone County (DN), north of Lexington (MF), west of Lexington (JK) and at Louisville (FS, S). Most encouraging were the reports of Peregrine Falcons in eastern Kentucky. The earliest Peregrine was sighted at Cumberland Gap, September 16 (RM), two adults there, September 23 (BA), one near Pine Mountain, September 30 (S, DS, FS) and one at Clark Hatchery, September 30, October 12 and 23 (FB). A Peregrine was also observed at the Falls, September 27 and 30 (BN, G. Adams, BPB, JL, LR). Soras through Cranes — - There were five reports of Sora Rails: three from Louisville (DN) and two at Clark Hatchery (FB) from September 16 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 8 to November 2 (DN). A Common Moorhen was present at Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County from October 14-29 (LMc). The American Coot migration was evident during October 23-30 and the highest count was 4500 at Lake Pewee (JH). The first autumn flight of 173 Sandhill Cranes passed over Valley Station, November 2 (BN), flocks of 100-150 flew over east Louisville, November 6 (BPB), 36 the following day (KC), 100 birds over Cave Hill Cemetery, November 13 (BPB) and 50 in a suburban area of Louisville, November 17 (CS) ; some smaller groups also passed through central Kentucky during the same period. Shorebircls — Shorebird migration was not spectacular. There were no Piping Plovers, Willets, Upland Sandpipers, or American Woodcock re¬ ported and numbers were low for most species, with the exception of Pectoral, Dunlin and Stilt Sandpipers. Some species lingered well into November. One to five Black-bellied Plovers were at the Falls with the earliest on August 14 (LR) and the latest on November 11 (BPB); three were at Freeman Lake, Elizabethtown, November 3 (JG) one at Chalk Bluff, August 27 (BPB, BN, S. Washburn) ; and six was the high at Clark Hatchery, October 31 (FB). Lesser Golden Plovers were present in num¬ bers of one to three at Lake Pewee (JH), the Falls (m. ob.), FCRA (JE1) and Clark Hatchery (FB). Nine Avocets were spotted at Mayfair Basins on August 6 and singles there September 15 (DN) and at the Falls, Oc¬ tober 25 (DN, LR, BPB). One to five Ruddy Turnstones were present at the Falls (BPB, DN, BN, BA), two at Dam #53 (BN, BPB) and two at Pulaski County Park (JE1). The birds at the latter location from August 29-September 4 are probably the first reporded for that county. The Red Knot, a rare transient, was first observed on September 2 at the Falls (JE1, JC, BN), two were there the following day and one at Mayfair Basins (BPB). Few Sanderlings were reported: the earliest were two at the Falls August 25, six as the high on September 2 (BN) and one to two intermittently until September 19 (S, BPB); three along the Mississippi River, Carlisle County, one at Dam #53, August 27 (BPB, BN, et al.) ; one at Lake #9, September 1 (BPB, R. Cassell) and one on west shore of Lake Barkley, November 10 was late in departing (CP). Western Sandpipers were seen at Louisville, Lake #9, Paradise Steam Plant and Clark Hatchery, with the earliest on August 5 at the Falls and a high of 12 there on August 8 (BN) and 10 at Lake #9, August 27 (BPB, BN) and the latest on October 5 at Clark Hatchery (FB). White-rumped Sandpipers were present at the Frankfort Fish Hatchery (MF) and at the Falls, where they numbered 6-8 on October 27 (BPB, JL) and last recorded there October 30. One to three Baird’s Sandpipers showed up at the Falls from August 18 (S, FS) to November 4 (BPB) ; several times at Lexington, October 24-31 (BA) ; one at Dam #53 (BN, BPB) and three as late as November 8 at Clark Hatchery (FB). Pectoral Sandpipers were widespread and in moderate numbers; a flock of 73 at the Falls, August 8 was the earliest (BN, S. Washburn) and latest at Jacobsen Park, Lexington, October 29 (BA). A single Dunlin arrived at FCRA on September 29 (JE1), but numbers were not present until late October: 50 at Clark Hatchery, October 23 (FB) ; 30 at Jonathan Creek, October 30 (CP) ; 50-65 at the Falls, October 27, but 112 there October 29 (BPB), smaller groups remained through mid-November, with the latest at Mayfair Basins, November 24 (JC). One to five Stilt Sandpipers were at Honker Lake, Lake Barkley, Mayfair Basins, the Falls, Frankfort Fish Hatchery, but 130 were at Lake #9 on September 1 (BPB, 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 17 R. Cassell) and 100 plus there September 2 (BM) ; and a few lingered at Honker Lake until the last week of November (CP). Interesting records of the Buff-breasted Sandpiper included 10 at the Falls, September 2 (BN, DN), six in Carlisle County, August 27 (BPB, BN, S. Washburn) and four at Mayfair Basins, September 4 (BN). A single Long-billed Dowiteher was seen and its call note heard at Lake #9, September 1 (BPB) and 2 (BM). A Wilson’s Phalarope at Mayfair Basins on August 18 (BPB) and 19 (BN) and September 2 (JC) was the only one reported. Gulls — A first-year Franklin’s Gull was present at the Falls on No¬ vember 1 (BPB, LR, JL). Bonaparte’s Gulls were few: six at Kentucky Dam, November 25 (CP); two at the Falls, November 8-10 (BN) and 6 to 8 November 30 (S, FS). A first-year Thayer’s Gull was seen at the Falls, November 8-11 (J. Caruso, BPB, BM, LR). The bird of the fall season was the immature Sabine’s Gull discovered at the Falls and identi¬ fied by Brad Andres, September 9 and later by B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. Details have been published. Terns — One to five Caspian Terns visited the Falls, with the earliest on August 8 (BN) and the latest on November 2 (DN, BN, BPB); also one at FCRA on September 28 (JE1). One to three Common Terns were present at the Falls, Towhead Island, Lexington Reservoir, FCRA and Pulaski County Park (m. ob.) between August 9 and November 19. The latter is a late date of one bird at the Falls (BPB). There were eight For¬ ster’s Terns at the Falls on October 3 (DN) and one was seen as late as November 5-6 (BPB). The species was also present at Lexington Reservoir (BA) and FCRA (JE1). One to five Least Terns were seen in Hickman, Fulton, and Carlisle Counties on August 27 and September 1 (BPB, BN). An interesting record was that of 15 Black Terns at Pulaski County Park, August 22 (JE1). Cuckoo through Woodpeckers — The only Black-billed Cuckoos re¬ ported were individuals at Madisonville, September 14 (JH) and at West- port, August 25 (S). A dead Northern Saw-whet Owl was picked up in the northern part of Land Between the Lakes on November 24 and appeared to be a “fresh kill;” it established the first record for this species in that area (CP). The migration of the Common Nighthawk was not impressive and only small groups passed over east Louisville with highs of 62 on August 18 (FS), 250 on August 25-26 (DN) and 50+ at Pulaski County Park, September 6 (JE1) ; latest date at Lexington, October 28 (BA). Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were quite common in the Fort Knox area during September and last observed there on October 9 (JG) ; one at the Falls of the Rough, October 17 (KC) and a probable one in east Louisville, November 2 (MS). Red-headed Woodpeckers were in larger numbers at Lexington area from late August through mid-September (MF), while at Prospect the species was “totally absent” for the second year (JK). Flycatchers through Creepers — Olive-sided Flycatchers were seen at Red River Gorge, September 15 (BA) and at CKWMA, October 1 (GR). Sightings of the Yellow-bellied Flycatcher included singles at two locations in Louisville, August 22 (DN) and 25, also two on September 16 (BPB) and one at Raven Rock, September 22 (BA). A Least Flycatcher call note was heard on August 17 and one singing on September 16 at Louisville (BPB). Purple Martins were definitely migrating on August 23 when 18 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 750-1000 were seen (DS) and 7500-10000 in late August and early Sep¬ tember at the Falls (BPB). A Tree Swallow at Mayfair Basins on No¬ vember 22 was unusually late (JK) and a flock of 156 American Crows there on November 2 (DN). Three Fish Crows were detected in Carlisle County, August 27 (BN et al.) . Red-breasted Nuthatches were scarce everywhere. Brown Creepers were more numerous in the Fort Knox area than in recent years (JG). Wrens through Shrikes — One to two Sedge Wrens and Marsh Wrens were reported at Louisville, October 18 (BPB, BN) and two of the latter species at Clark Hatchery, October 31 and November 26 (FB). There was an increase in the number of both species of kinglets over 1983 in Rowan County; highest counts were 28 Golden-crowned and 73 Ruby-crowned at Three Lick Branch, October 29 (FB). A small “wave” of Gray-cheeked Thrushes passed through Glasgow on October 5 (RS). Groups of 10-50 Water Pipits were present from September 30-November 23 at various places in the Lexington area, Shakertown (MF), Clark Hatcher*y (FB), Louisville (BPB), Burnside State Park and FCRA (JE1). Flocks of Cedar Waxwings were present from September 30-November 30 ; highest count was 200 at Clark Hatchery (FB). A Loggerhead Shrike at Winchester, November 24 was the only one reported (BA). Vireos and Warblers — White-eyed Vireos were still present the last few days of October in Pulaski, Madison (GR) and Warren Counties (JC), while a Solitary at Lexington Cemetery on November 8 provided a late date (BA). The warbler migration was drawn out over a long period of time with no big waves noted. Only the most noteworthy records are men¬ tioned below. A Golden -winged Warbler at Bullittsburg, September 25 was unusual there (LMc). A single Orange-crowned Warbler reported at Louisville, October 2 (BPB). A Magnolia Warbler at Eubank on October 28 was late (JE1). Cape May Warblers lingered rather late: one at Eubank, October 19 (JE1) and one at Carter Caves, October 20 (LMc). Yellow- rumped (Myrtle) Warblers did not seem as common as usual at Lake Pewee (JH), but good numbers were at Clark Hatchery with a high of 200+ on October 25 (FB). A Blackbm-nian Warbler was present at Eu¬ bank on October 28 (JE1) and a Yellow-throated Warbler was there Oc¬ tober 17 (JE1). A Northern Waterthrush at CKWMA on October 20 was a fairly late transient (GR). Two Connecticut Warblers were reported: one at Lexington, September 17 (RM) and one at Foi't Knox area, Oc¬ tober 14 (JG) was late. A Mourning Warbler was seen on October 8 at Louisville (DN). Tanagers through Emberizines — A Summer Tanager at Louisville on November 3-4 was late (DN). A Blue Grosbeak at Eubank on October 10 was fairly late in departing (JE1). Indigo Buntings were “abundant” at CKWMA and last observed there on October 29 (GR). Tree Sparrows were scarce and only mentioned at CKWMA (GR). Savannah Sparrows at the Clark Hatchery were above those of the fall of 1983 : 30 on Septem¬ ber 22 and 15 on October 4 (FB) ; singles at CKWMA, November 2 (GR) and at Louisville, October 18 and November 21 (BPB). Four Henslow’s Sparrows at Clark Hatchery on November 4 were late stragglers (FB) and a Grasshopper Sparrow was present at CKWMA, November 22 (GR). A LeConte’s Sparrow was roped in a field at Louisville on October 28 (BPB, BN, JC, A. Barron). Single Lincoln Sparrows were recorded at CKWMA 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 19 on October 1, 12, 20 and four birds on November 2 (GR). White-throated Sparrows were not common until the last week of October at Madisonville (JH) and there were 293 at Tree Lick Branch, October 29 and 30 (FB). White-crowned Sparrows arrived later than normal and numbers were low at Fort Knox (JG), Louisville (S) and absent at Owensboro ( R I ) . Dark-eyed (Slate-colored) Juncos were also late in arriving, with the ex¬ ception of a single bird on September 26 at Louisville (S). A single Lap- land Longspur was seen flying over a Louisville field on November 20 (BPB) and three Snow Buntings were at the Falls on November 28 (Brian Anderson, BPB). Blackbirds, Finches — The largest flock of Rusty Blackbirds during the fall was 250 at Harrodsburg, November 21 (BA). Purple Finches were late in arriving and were very scarce, some observers had not seen any by the end of November. During the latter part of November 50-75 House Finches were present at CKWMA (GR) and 25-50 at Bowling Green feeders (WM) and smaller numbers at Murray (CP) and in the Louisville area (S). Pine Siskins were scarce. Good concentrations of American Gold¬ finches were in the Lexington area (MF) and at the Falls of the Rough (KC), but scarce at Valley Station (DS). Three Evening Grosbeaks at Prospect on October 17 were the only ones reported (FK). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Fred Busroe (FB), John Callahan (JC), Kathryn Clay (KC), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Sherri Evans (SE), Michael Flynn (MF), Ed Groneman (EG), John Getgood (JG), J. W. Han¬ cock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Wilbur Jackson (WJ), John Krull (JK), Frank X. Krull (FK), Julian Lewis (JL), Robert Morris (RM), Wayne Mason (WM), Burt L. Monroe (BM), Lee McNeely (LMc), Doxie Noonan (DN), Barry Nichols (BN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peter¬ son (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Gary Ritchison (GR), Carl Schultz (CS), Russell Starr (RS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Midge Susie (MS), Scottie Theiss (ST), Tom Young (TY), Beckham Bird Club (BBC). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. FIELD NOTE EARED GREBE IN WARREN COUNTY The Eared Grebe ( Podiceps nigricollis) is considered to be a casual vagrant in Kentucky (Barbour et al., Kentucky Birds: A Finding Guide, 1973). Previous state records were reported during the winter months from along the Ohio River (Mengel, The Birds of Kentucky, A.O.U. Mono¬ graph 3, 1965), and from Kentucky Lake in 1978 (Stamm, Ky. Warbler 58: 43, 1978). In May 1984, two individuals of this species were observed on McElroy Lake in Warren County. The purpose of this note is to docu¬ ment these sightings from southcentral Kentucky. A single individual of this species was first observed on May 10 by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., who phoned to alert me of the bird’s presence. Later that evening, I drove to McElroy Lake and confirmed his identifica¬ tion. The bird was in full breeding plumage and the available light was such that most distinguishing characteristics could be noted. It contrasted sharply with the Pied-billed Grebes (Podilymbus podiceps) which were 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 also present, in that it was a darker, more slender bird with a black head and neck, and a slender, pointed bill. A black crest and a bright yellowish- brown ear tuft were clearly visible whenever the bird presented itself in side view. Although Horned Grebes ( Podiceps auritus) were not present, the black neck of this bird, coupled with the fact that the yellow-brown ear markings extended well below the eye line, prevented the possibility of confusing the two species. Following this initial sighting, the lake was checked daily from May 11-19. On May 12, a second Eared Grebe, also in breeding plumage, had appeared. From May 12 through May 14, both individuals were observed during mid-afternoon and early evening visits. By the afternoon of May 15 only one individual remained and it was present in the area until the morning of May 18. Frequent visits to the lake, and checks at surrounding bodies of water after this date failed to relocate the species. These sightings represent the first for this region of Kentucky. Reasons for the occurrence of these individuals in this area are unknown. — WAYNE M. MASON, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky Uni¬ versity, Bowling Green, Ky. 42101. NEWS AND VIEWS VULTURE VIEWERS Please be on the lookout for Turkey Vultures with dark green wing tags. A number of adults and nestlings have been marked in Wisconsin as part of a study of breeding biology, mortality and migration. Tags are encoded with a small “u” and large white numerals, 1-99. If a marked vulture is sighted, please report the date, exact location, tag number, whether tag is on the right or left wing, name and address of observer and other pertinent observations to Madison Audubon Society, Rt. 1, Box 128A, Arlington, WI 53911 (phone 608-635-4160). ACTIVE MEMBER DEPARTS Pierre Allaire has accepted an appointment with the University of Florida at Gainesville and must depart from Kentucky by March 15. Be¬ cause he and Lori will be unable to attend the spring meeting, this note is to wish all their friends in the organization well. Thanks are extended to Pierre for his many contributions to K.O.S. The K.O.S. wishes them well on their new venture. Their new address will be McCarty Hall, U.F. 32611. K.O.S. SPRING MEETING Our spring meeting will take place at Mammoth Cave National Park on April 19, 20 and 21. Reservations at the park should be made at your earliest convenience. Camping is also available. Mark the dates on your calendar and plan to enjoy good birding and the company of those who share a common interest. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact the Program Chairman, Fred Busroe, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Morehead State University, Morehead 40351. *Q / The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 61 MAY, 1985 NO. 2 AVIAN SPECIES ATTRACTED TO AND UTILIZING THE MINOR E. CLARK FISH HATCHERY, Fred t4854,3 THE WINTER SEASON, 1984-1985, Anne L. StannJ»“^' f ' 27 K.O.S. SPRING MEETING, APRIL 19-21, 1985 32 FIELD NOTE 34 NEWS AND VIEWS 36 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Vice-President Fred Busroe, Morehead Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Miss Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors : Wayne Mason, Bowling Green Jim Durell, Lexington Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1983-1985 1983- 1985 1984- 1986 1984-1986 Retiring President Pierre Allaire, Jackson Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $6.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; 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 B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER Our thanks go to Ray Harm, our gifted staff artist, for this painting of Cardinals. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 AVIAN SPECIES ATTRACTED TO AND UTILIZING THE MINOR E. CLARK FISH HATCHERY Fred M. Busroe ABSTRACT — A study was conducted at Minor E. Clark Fish Hatch¬ ery, Rowan County, Kentucky to investigate the avian species attracted to and utilizing the habitat created by the development of the hatchery. The study was conducted from September 1982 to December 1983. A total of 162 species was recorded. The habitat created by the construction of Clark Hatchery has increased the occurrence of waterfowl and shorebird species in this area of Kentucky. INTRODUCTION — “Eastern Kentucky has been ignored to a consid¬ erable degree and knowledge regarding its fauna is limited” (Barbour 1951). Pierre Allaire (1974) found this statement applicable in 1974. This comment is still true (Stamm 1981, per. cornmun.; Shadowen 1982). Men- gel’s publication (1965), Monroe’s summary (1969) and Barbour’s, et al. finding guide (1972) contain helpful information about Kentucky’s avi¬ fauna. However, a number of major environmental changes have occurred in eastern Kentucky since 1950 and information regarding the avifauna needs to be updated. The impoundment of large lakes, surface mine recla¬ mation efforts (Allaire 1974, 1978, 1981) and the employment of different agriculture and forestry techniques (McComb and Moriarty 1981) have altered eastern Kentucky’s habitats and avian populations. One such altera¬ tion of habitat in eastern Kentucky is the Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery. Similar in some aspects to the transient lakes which have long been recognized as unique birding areas near Bowling Green (Wilson 1951, 1968; Shadowen 1972), the ponds at Clark Hatchery serve as temporary stopping points for migrating birds. The purpose of this study was to observe and report on avian species attracted to and utilizing the habitat created by the development of the Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery. STUDY AREA — Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery is located eight miles (12.8 km) southwest of Morehead, Rowan County, Kentucky. The study area is on the western edge of the Cumberland Plateau. The hatchery is in the Cumberland Upland avifaunal region of Kentucky (Mengel 1965), which comprises most of the Cumberland Plateau. This region is marked by the richest forest avifauna in Kentucky, both in total number of species and numbers of individuals of common species (Mengel 1965). The study area is sufficiently close to the Limestone Plateau avifaunal region for it to be ecotonal in the nature of its avifauna. Clark Hatchery is one of the largest state-owned warm-water hatch¬ eries in the United States. Construction was completed in 1972. The average elevation of the study area is approximately 680 feet (207 m) mean sea level. The hatchery covers 300 acres (121.4 ha) and contains 111 rearing and bi’ood ponds. It has 122.5 acres (49.6 ha) of water that includes eighty- two 1.0 acre (0.4 ha) ponds, twenty-five 0.1 acre (0.04 ha) ponds and 38 acres (15.37 ha) of water in four large brood ponds, one of which is an oxbow lake. The remaining 189 acres (76.5 ha) consists of roadways, mixed forest stands, planted fields (corn), grassy-marsh areas and an office- residential area. Clark Hatchery is located 275 yards (250 m) west of Cave Run Lake and is bounded on the southern and western sides by the Licking River. 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 The hatchery is a state designated wildlife sanctuary and thus access by humans is restricted. This feature, along with the habitat created by the ponds, marsh areas, fields and the close proximity to Cave Run Lake and the Licking River serve as a special attraction to birds. METHODS — Methods involving the use of transect routes to identify birds from visual and audible cues employed in this study were modified from the methods of Emlen (1971, 1977). The transect route width varied with the season (Robbins 1972) and the habitat (Reynolds et al. 1989). The transect route was chosen to achieve maximum coverage of the different habitats of the study area. The survey route was covered in a motor vehicle with periodic stops made to observe and record species and numbers of birds seen. On eighteen visits it was necessary to cover the interior of the oxbow lake on foot be¬ cause road conditions were poor as a result of the weather. The study area was visited a total of 66 times from 8 September 1982 to 2 December 1983. Sixty-one surveys were made between 7 :00 a.m. and noon and five surveys were conducted between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Visual observations were made using binoculars (8.5 x 44) and a spotting scope (15x-60x). The species and the number of individuals identified visually or audibly on each trip were recorded on a transect route map. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION — -A total of 162 species was encount¬ ered during the study. The maximum number of species observed on a single survey was 66 species on 17 May 1983 and the greatest number of indi¬ viduals was 1376 observed on 19 October 1983. The data concerning the aquatic species from the study are presented in Table 1. Species are named and listed in accordance with their order in the new A.O.U. Check-list of North American Birds (A.O.U. 1983). Sixteen species recorded on a single occasion and represented by sightings of only one bird are not included in Table 1. These species are: Horned Grebe, Great Egret, Wood Stork, Redhead, Common Merganser, Ruddy Turnstone, American Woodcock, Wilson’s Phalarope and Forster’s Tern. Woodland species are not included either. A total of 36 species are known to nest within the hatchery. Nests were located for each of the nesting species. An additional 16 species are sus¬ pected of nesting within or at least nearby the study area. Juvenile birds or adults carrying food were used as evidence for the suspected breeding species. Data for breeding status of the aquatic species are also presented in Table 1. The Kentucky Ornithological Society lists 17 orders of birds on its Check-list of Kentucky Birds. Sixteen of these orders were observed at Clark Hatchery. The only order not observed was the order Pelecaniformss. A representative of this order, the Double-crested Cormorant, has been obsei’ved several times on Cave Run Lake. Fourteen species were observed that Mengel lists as unrecorded on the Cumberland Plateau (Mengel 1965). These unrecorded species are: Horned Grebe, Wood Stork, Green-winged Teal, Gadwall, Canvasback, Redhead, Oldsquaw, Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Reb-breasted Merganser, Black- bellied Plover, Ruddy Turnstone, Wilson’s Phalarope and Least Tern. All of the preceding species are waterfowl or shorebirds that use the hatchery during migration. Mengel (1965) indicated that there were very few Cumberland Plateau records for the following species: Semipalmated Plov¬ er, White-rumped Sandpiper, Dunlin, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Tree Swal- 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 25 TABLE 1 — Aquatic avian species observed at Minor E. Clark Fish ery between September 1982 and December 1983. Hatch- a> Breeding Status Species - G 0) 9 o’ a o' 2 tuo 0£ c CO -rj T3 CD C "o i a> S.BP C/3 C/3 o.5f o ? H c/2 E- w < in 1 - X w COMMON LOON F 4 4 1.0 PIED-BILLED GREBE Sp, F 33 100 3.0 AMERICAN BITTERN F 3 3 1.0 GREAT BLUE HERON Y 59 339 5.7 LITTLE BLUE HERON . F 7 15 2.1 CATTLE EGRET Sp, F 5 6 1.2 GREEN-BACKED HERON Su 28 553 19.8 BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON F 7 9 1.3 CANADA GOOSE Sp, F, W 8 45 5.6 WOOD DUCK Sp, Su, F 31 153 4.9 GREEN-WINGED TEAL . F 3 3 1.0 BLACK DUCK Sp, F, W 5 16 3.2 MALLARD Y 42 194 4.6 BLUE-WINGED TEAL Sp, F 25 241 9.6 NORTHERN SHOVELER Sp, F 5 17 3.4 GADWALL . W 1 3 3.0 CANVASBACK Sp 3 6 2.0 RING-NECKED DUCK Sp, F 16 61 3.8 GREATER SCAUP . Sp 1 4 4.0 LESSER SCAUP Sp, F, W 18 21 1.2 OLDSQUAW . W 10 14 1.4 COMMON GOLDENEYE Sp 2 6 3.0 BUFFLEHEAD . Sp, F, W 23 131 5.7 HOODED MERGANSER Sp F, W 23 203 8.8 RED-BREASTED MERGANSER Sp 2 4 2.0 RUDDY DUCK Sp, F 2 3 1.5 OSPREY Sp, Su, F 29 30 1.0 BALD EAGLE . Sp, F, W 7 11 1.5 AMERICAN COOT . Sp F, W 22 187 8.5 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER F 1 2 2.0 LESSER GOLDEN PLOVER F 4 4 1.0 SEMIPALMATED PLOVER F 7 24 3.4 KILLDEER . Y 63 2094 33.2 GREATER YELLOWLEGS Sp, F 9 29 3.2 LESSER YELLOWLEGS Sp, F 18 88 4.9 SOLITARY SANDPIPER Sp 3 7 2.3 SPOTTED SANDPIPER . Sp, F 21 77 3.7 SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER F 17 247 14.5 WESTERN SANDPIPER . F 2 11 5.5 LEAST SANDPIPER . F 31 239 7.7 WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER F 1 2 2.0 PECTORAL SANDPIPER F 28 213 7.6 DUNLIN . F 15 105 7.1 STILT SANDPIPER . F 3 7 2.3 COMMON SNIPE . F 3 13 4.3 BONAPARTE'S GULL Sp, F 3 6 2.0 RING-BILLED GULL Sp, F 20 145 7.3 HERRING GULL Sp 1 3 3.0 COMMON TERN . F 4 4 1.0 LEAST TERN . F 2 7 3.5 BELTED KINGFISHER Y 62 217 3.5 Sp — Spring F — Fall Y — Permanent Resident Su — Summer W — Winter 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 low and Marsh Wren. All of these species were observed during the study period. A Northern Pintail was observed at the hatchery prior to the study period and two additional species, American Wigeon and Brewer’s Black¬ bird, have been recorded since the study was concluded in December 1983. A comparison of these records with the occurrence records for Kentucky developed by Monroe (1969) indicated that my observations were within the range of dates previously recorded. The species observed at Clark Hatchery are similar to those recorded at the transient lakes near Bowling Green (Wilson 1951, 1968; Shadowen 1972). Clark Hatchery may soon serve as an attraction equal to the tran¬ sient lakes. Current management practices of draining the ponds in the fall en¬ hances the attractiveness for shorebirds. The oxbow and small ponds that remain filled throughout the year attract waterfowl. During the winter months the Bald Eagle is often seen on snags over the Licking River that forms the southern boundary of the hatchery. This area of the river receives tailwaters of Cave Run Lake and remains ice free during severe weather, whereas Cave Run Lake often freezes. The planted fields and tree stands provide an excellent source of food and shelter for the passerines. The initial conclusion that can be formed is that since construction of Clark Hatchery and Cave Run Lake the occurrence of waterfowl and shore- birds in this area of Kentucky has increased in both the number of species and the number of individual birds. The hatchery serves as a special at¬ traction for migrating birds. The results of this study should serve as a starting point for continued observation and documentation of the changing avian populations of the Cave Run area and eastern Kentucky. It will be necessary to continue the study for several years to fully document the transitional period. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS — I thank Morehead State University for supporting funds provided through the Faculty Research Committee and my Department Chairman, Dr. Jerry F. Howell, Jr., for his support and understanding. I am indebted to Mr. Dan Brewer, Manager of Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery, for allowing me free access to the hatchery. I also acknowledge Michael Hearn, Lewis Kornman, Albert Surmont, as well as the hatchery staff for their assistance and observations. Literature Cited Allaire, P. N. 1974. Notes on spring migration on reclaimed surface mined land in Breathitt County. Kentucky Warbler 50 ( 2 ) : 35-40. _ 1978. Reclaimed surface mines: new potential for some North American birds. American Birds 32(1) :3-5. _ _ 1981. Summer observations of birds on reclaimed surface coal mines in Breathitt, Bell, Pike and Harlan Counties. Kentucky Warbler 57(3) :51-54. American Ornithologists’ Union. 1983. 6th edition. Check-list of North American Birds. A.O.LL Press. 877pp. Barbour, R. W., C. T. Peterson, D. Rust, H. E. Shadowen and A. L. Whitt, Jr. 1972. Kentucky Birds: a finding guide. The University Press. 306pp. Emlen, J. T. 1971. Population densities of birds derived from transect counts. Auk 88:323-342. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 _ 1977. Estimating breeding season bird densities from transect counts. Auk 94:455-468. McComb, W. C. and J. J. Moriarty. 1981. Winter bird densities in eastern Kentucky forests. Kentucky Warbler 45 (3) : 67-71. Mengel, R. M. 1965. The birds of Kentucky. American Ornithologists’ Union, Ornithological Monograph No. 3, 581 pp. Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1965. Summary of occurrence of birds of Kentucky. Kentucky Warbler. 45:47-56. Reynolds, R. T., J. M. Scott, and R. N. Nussbaum. 1980. Variable circular- plot method for estimating bird numbers. Condor. 82:309-313. Robbins, C. S. 1972. An appraisal of the winter-bird population study tech¬ nique. American Birds. 26:688-692. Shadowen, H. E. 1972. A season at the transient lakes near Bowling Green. Kentucky Warbler. 48 (3) 48-49 Wilson, G. 1951. The Woodburn Lakes since 1939. Kentucky Warbler. 27(1) : 1-6. _ The Woodburn Lakes, 1963-1968. Kentucky Warbler. 44(3) :39-43. — Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351. THE WINTER SEASON, 1984-85 Anne L. Stamm Warm weather for the fall period continued into early winter with temperatures ranging from 61 to 69 degrees for the highs on eight days and 73 degrees on two days during December. January, on the other hand, was cold and snow fell in many parts of the state on January 5 with six inches at Paducah, eight inches at Mayfield, and two to three inches at Madisonville, Henderson and Louisville. Temperatures dropped to 16 to 20 degrees below zero on January 19-21. Heavy snow fell in much of the state, particularly in central and eastern Kentucky on February 12. High winds caused drifts of four to five feet in the areas of Versailles, Lexing¬ ton and Mt. Sterling. Large ice flows were common on the Ohio River and Barren River Lake was frozen during the severest period. Tree and shrub damage was extensive, but there were few reports of bird mortality. Since the snow was on the ground for a long period of time, birds had a difficult time finding natural foods and feeding stations were hosts to such species as Bobwhite, Tree and Fox Sparrows and Red-winged and Rusty Blackbirds. Few northern finches had arrived by late December. A few Pine Siskins began showing up at feeders in mid- January when temperatures dropped below zero. The unusually warm weather in December apparently caused many species to remain beyond their normal departure dates. Unusual birds also added to the interest of the winter season. The list included a Laughing Gull at Barkley Dam; Glaucous Gulls at Falls of the Ohio, Barkley and Kentucky Dams; Thayers Gulls from the same areas; a Great Black- backed Gull and Black-legged Kittiwake at Kentucky Dam and Yellow¬ headed Blackbirds at Louisville and in Lexington. Loons through Herons — There were few reports of Common Loons in December, but an interesting record was that of 90 birds on the Lexington Reservoir on December 19 (BA) ; a few lingered into January, six at Cave 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Run Lake, January 4 (FB) ; two near Green River, Taylor County, January 13 (JE1). Seventy-nine Pied-billed Grebes at Lake Pewee on December 10 was the largest number reported (JH) ; singles were still present at Louis¬ ville and Lexington on January 15 and 19, respectively (LR, and BA). The only mid-winter record of Horned Grebes was a single bird at Louis¬ ville on February 15 (LR). Probably late transients were three Double- crested Cormorants at the Falls of the Ohio in early December where one remained until mid-December (BPB); also a single bird was present at Lake Barkley, February 17 (BPB et al.). There was an unusually large number of Great Blue Herons present during December. The species ap¬ peared on 12 CBCs, with highs of 29 birds at Lexington and Glasgow, 28 at the Land Between the Lakes, 23 at Ballard County and 21 on the Louis¬ ville CBCs. They survived the sub-zero weather in the Inner Blue Grass Region and remained throughout the period at the Lexington Reservoir, lowest numbers there on January 19 and February 17 (BA). A single Great Egret was reported on the Lexington CBC, December 19 (BA). A few Cattle Egrets were late stragglers: one near Richmond on December 8 ( fide GR) and two on a Murray farm (J. Erwin fide CP). Waterfowl — An immature Tundra Swan was seen at Three Springs, Warren County, January 19, but was gone the following day (WM and H. Shadowen) ; two were sighted on the Ballard Waterfowl Management Area (hereafter BWMA) on January 17 (TY). Snow Geese numbered 4000 at BWMA in early December, but on January 7 the population had built up to 8000 birds. The census there at the end of February numbered 2000 birds (TY). Northward moving Snow Geese included ten or eleven in a cornfield at Three Lick Branch, Rowan County on February 22. They were with a flock of Canada Geese (FB). The latter species was reported at 11 locations. Largest concentrations were in western Kentucky with 22,000 at BWMA at the end of December, but on January 7 some 35,000 birds were there. The waterfowl season closed on January 22 with 75,000 Canada Geese at BWMA, but the population peaked at 130,000 on February 11 (TY). At the end of the reporting season (February 28) the majority had moved northward as only 5000 remained (TY). Canada Geese peaked at 1500 at Danville (FL) and at Green River State Park with 500 birds (JE1). The duck population throughout the winter was rather low in the Louisville area and at BWMA it “was far below the past few years” (TY). Surveys at BWMA showed only 6500 at the beginning of December, but the flock built up to 20,000 by January 7 and only 1000 there on January 22 (TY). Spring migrant Green-winged Teal began arriving in mid- February at Lexington (BA) and at Danville (FL). The largest Black Duck concentration at Louisville was 250 to 300 at the lake in Cave Hill Cemetery, February 16 (S, FS). The Mallard high count at Louisville was 1100 on February 9 at Mayfair Basins (JC). A few Pintails and Gadwalls remained throughout the winter at Danville (FL) and the latter species at Lexington (BA). American Wigeon began appearing at Danville on February 9 (FL) and at Lexington on February 16 (BA). Canvasbacks were reported in low numbers. A flock of 56 Redheads was seen at Warsaw, February 24 (LR) and a flock of 1000 at Lake Barkley on February 27 (V. Anderson, J. Sole, BPB). A flock of 66 Greater Scaup at Towhead Island on February 23 was extraordinary (LR). Three Surf Scoters were near McAlpine Dam on December 20 (BPB, J. Lewis) and a single White¬ winged Scoter at Smithland Dam on December 1 (m.ob.) and 30 (LR). Common Goldeneyes were reported from five locations (m.ob.) : Danville, 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 29 Lexington, Louisville, Madisonville and Kentucky - Barkley Lakes area, with the largest concentration of 550 on the west side of Kentucky Lake in mid- February (BPB). Interesting were the 28 Hooded Mergansers on the Lexington Reservoir on January 16 (BA). There were 117 Common Mergansers on the Land Between the Lakes CBC December 14 (CP) and 600 at Silo Overlook, February 10 (BPB, R. Cassell). A total of 226 Red¬ breasted Mergansers in two flocks was recorded at Lexington, December 19 (BA) and 120 on the Ohio River near Shippingport Island on December 20 (LR, BPB). Ruddy Ducks were present throughout December at Lake Pewee with a high of 33 on December 10 and 31 present on January 14 (JH). Diurnal Raptors — Black and Turkey Vultures were present in large numbers in the vicinity of Kentucky River Bluffs (MF), also Turkey Vultures were more common than usual in January and early February at Danville (FL). The January Bald Eagle survey totaled 143 which was below that of the 1984 survey (JD, S). Bald Eagle sightings in February included 13 from Uniontown to Golconda (M. Morton), 25 at Land Be¬ tween the Lakes (Ed Ray), eight at Green River (JE1), two south of West Point ( fide DS), one at Cave Run Lake and three at Clark Fish Hatchery (FB). Single Northern Harriers were reported in Breckenridge, Daviess, Jefferson and Trimble Counties; also reported at nine locations on the CBCs. Sharp-shinned Hawks, other than those on the CBCs, included singles in Shelby County on December 16 and February 9 (WB), at Wax on January 6 (KC), a few in the Inner Blue Grass area during the period (MF) and one captured a male Northern Cardinal at Prospect, December 5 (FK). Cooper’s Hawks were reported in yards, or near feeders, at three locations during December: Louisville, Prospect and Shelbyville; five were recorded on the eagle survey in January; February sightings included two in Grayson County (KC), one in Jefferson County (KC) and one in Shelby County (WB). An immature Goshawk was reported near Taylors¬ ville Lake on December 1 (WB). Red-shouldered Hawks continued to be in low numbers. Red-tailed Hawks appeared to be “noticeably down” this year in the Danville area (FL) ; the CBCs showed some decrease over last year, too. On the eagle survey a total of 57 Red-tailed Hawks was seen ; fourteen were at Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area (hereafter CKWMA) for about a week after the mid-February heavy snow (GR). A Golden Eagle was reported at Land Between the Lakes on the eagle survey in January ( fide JD) and an immature was sighted at BWMA on January 23 and February 14 (T. Siemsen et al. fide BPB). Small numbers of Rough-legged Hawks were present during December and February; very few at Danville (FL). There were mixed reports on the American Kestrel; declines noted again at Frankfort (H. Jones), but numbers were good at Owensboro (RI) and the total number reported on the eagle survey showed 23 more than on last year’s survey. Turkeys through Shorebirds — Winter Wild Turkey reports included 17 along Green River near Mammoth Cave on December 16 (M. Gillenwater fide WM), 16 in Ballard County, February 14 (B. Anderson fide BPB) and 10 in Trigg County on December 1 (BPB et al.). Four Northern Bob- white came to a Louisville feeder during the snowy weather in February (KC). The species showed some decrease on the CBCs over 1984, but was thought to have survived the winter fairly well at Owensboro (RI). A covey of eight was flushed at Shippingport Island on December 16 (FS, 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 S) where it had not been found on previous CBCs. The American Coot wintered at the Lexington Reservoir and 57 noted there on January 16 (BA) and at Lake Pewee a high count of 597 was recorded on December 31 and 96 still there on January 14 and 10 on February 27 (JH). Good flocks of Sandhill Cranes flew over Louisville on their southward migration on December 3 — 200 observed by F. W. Stamm and 225 and 150 by Doxie Noonan; two were late stragglers over Doe Valley, Meade County on Janu¬ ary 5 (BPB). A few shorebirds lingered beyond normal departure dates: a Greater Yellowlegs, a Least Sandpiper and four Dunlin at Land Between the Lakes, December 1 (DN); three Dunlin still present at Jonathan Creek on December 14 ( fide CP). The “peenting” notes and courtship flights of six American Woodcock in Ballard County on December 29 were unusually early with this performance (BPB, KC) ; more normal courtship flights included one at the outskirts of Murray, February 18 (CP), five at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC), two in Oldham County (JC) and one in Kenton County (EG) all on February 25. Gulls — Two Laughing Gulls at Barkley Dam on December 30 were unexpected (BPB, DN, LR). Bonaparte’s Gulls were scarce in the fall, but fair numbers were present on January 4 in many areas: 56 at Falls of the Ohio (LR), flocks of 140 and 165 along the Ohio River at Louisville (J. Lewis, BPB), three at the Game Farm Lake in Frankfort and probably a new record for the area (WB) and 35 or more at the Lexington Reservoir (BA). Winter resident Gulls were late in arriving, at least in numbers. Ring-billed Gulls were widespread: about 1000 at Kentucky - Barkley Dams on December 1 (DN) and an estimated several thousand at the tri-dam area the latter part of December (BPB) ; some 4000 at Green River Lake on January 13 (JE1) ; about 80 at the Falls of the Ohio on February 7 (DN, LR) ; smaller numbers elsewhere. An estimated 5000 Herring Gulls were present in mid-February at the Kentucky - Barkley and Smithland Dams (BPB) where only 500 had been present at Kentucky and Barkley Dam on December 1 (DN); a high of 75 at Falls of the Ohio in early February (BPB) and one to two at Lexington Reservoir in December (BA, MF). A single Thayer’s Gull was seen and documented at Barkley Lake, December 28 (DN) and again on December 30 with other observers; nine including two adults, five first-year, one second-year and a third-year bird at Kentucky - Barkley Dams on February 10 and an adult and a couple of first-year birds on February 17 and one at Falls of the Ohio on January 21 (BPB-et al. -no details). A few Glaucous Gulls showed up: one at Falls of the Ohio, February 7 (documented - LR, DN) ; one each at Barkley and Kentucky Dams in mid-January (M. Bierly) ; one at Kentucky Dam, February 16 (M. Miller, CP); four at Kentucky Dam and one at Barkley, February 10 (BPB, R. Cassell) and at least three at the former location on February 17 (CP, BPB). A single Great Black-backed Gull was seen at Kentucky Dan on February 10 and 17 (Photo — BPB, R. Cassell et al.) and a Black-legged Kittiwake there on December 1-2 was unexpected (BPB). Owls through Phoebes — Twenty-six Screech Owls were recorded on the Lexington CBCs and seven were on the Otter Creek CBC, making highs for both counts. Seven Short-eared Owls were reported from four locations: one near Finchville (WB), one at Wise Landing (JY) two in Mercer County (BPB) and three in Fayette County (BA). Red-headed Wood¬ peckers were present in greater numbers than usual and appeared on all 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 31 but four of the 22 CBCs, with a high of 357 on the Ballard County CBC. An Eastern Phoebe on February 23 at Indian Fort Mountain near Berea was probably an early migrant (GR). Horned Larks through Kinglets — Horned Larks were scarce in the Louisville area in December, but numbers increased by mid- January when 225 were seen on Surrey Hill Farm (BPB) ; 200 to 300 were also seen in farming areas outside Owensboro (RI). No American Crow roosts were reported, but flocks of 200 were seen at Covington (EG) and 500-1000 on the outskirts of Louisville (DN) ; and they were scarce again at Danville (FL). Red-breasted Nuthatches were scarce. Carolina Wrens were in fair numbers in late December all across the state, but in some areas numbers dwindled after the severe weather of January and mid-February. A Marsh Wren was seen on the Ballard CBC on December 29 (KC — documented). Golden-crowned Kinglets were present in good numbers at Lexington in December, but few after the severe weather in mid-February (MF). Ruby- crowned Kinglets were scarce this season ; one fed at a Prospect feeder during the cold weather of January 10, 18 and 20 (FK). Thrushes and Warblers — Eastern Bluebirds were in normal numbers in Rowan County (FB) and above normal numbers in much of the state in late December. Two dead bluebirds were found in a nest box in Grayson County in mid-February; so, time will tell what mortality took place during the sub-zero weather. Among the thrushes the Mountain Bluebird had to be the rarity! A single bird was found on the December 22 Otter Creek Park CBC (BPB, R. Cassell, D. Ebell) and later observed by many. Two Mountain Bluebirds (male and female) were seen on December 26 (KC, FS, S) — both birds observed at the same time. The male was last seen on January 13 (BPB). American Robins were present in good numbers all across the state, much above last year’s population. Several Brown Thrash¬ ers were found at feeding stations during January and February. A flock of 35 Water Pipits was seen in the Danville area during the third week of December and one bird flying over Barkley Dam, February 17 were the only ones reported. Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warblers were practically absent in the Owensboro area (RI), none listed on the Madisonville, Sorgho, Yelvington and Marion CBCs, but fair numbers at Otter Creek Park area, Mammoth Cave National Park and Bernheim Forest. Sparrows, Blackbirds and Finches — Many Observers commented on Tree Sparrows coming to feeding stations during the snowy weather of January and February; a small flock of 35 remained from early January to late February at CKWMA (GR). The only Savannah Sparrow reported after December was a single bird at CKWMA on January 6 (GR). Three late-lingering Grasshopper Sparrows were found on the Otter Creek Park CBC (BPB et al.) and at least one still there the following day (BPB, JE1). Fox Sparrows were common at feeders during January and February at Madisonville (JH), Bedford (JY), Big Pond Sanctuary (KC), Louisville (KC, S, FS), Valley Station (DS), Prospect (FK), Danville (FL), Eu¬ bank (JE1), Lexington (BA) and various feeders at Morehead (FB). White-crowned Sparrows were low in numbers at Owensboro and Louis¬ ville (RI and S). The only Lapland Longspurs reported were from the Louisville area: two to three in January (BPB) and one at the Standiford Field airport area in February (KC). Large flocks of Blackbirds were seen in the Louisville area: thousands at Lentz’s Pond (BBC), 5000-6000 in 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 the writer’s yard on December 8 — mostly Common Grackles. A large blackbird roost was discovered in the St. Matthews area and in January it was estimated to contain 200,000 - 500,000 birds (BM). Several Yellow¬ headed Blackbirds (both male and female) were seen at feeders during January and February and apparently were associated with this roost. The birds visited the feeders of Jane Bell and Dr. William Peak and an immature was seen on the Palmer-Ball farm. Also, a female was seen on the south end of Lexington in late February by Dr. A. Uterhart ( fide MF). Purple Finches were scarce in the early part of the period, but numbers increased slightly after the middle of January and in February. The largest concentration of House Finches occurred at Eubank with a high of 175 + (JE1). Pine Siskins were scarce in most areas and some observers reported none. During mid-February American Goldfinches were unusually common at sunflower and thistle feeders with counts of 20-30 at Fern Creek and Louisville (S), 44 at Madisonville (JH), 50 at Valley Station (DS), 50 plus at Danville (FL), and 150 at Falls of Rough (KC), but seldom observed in the field. Evening Grosbeaks were practically non-existent in the state: one at Shelbyville on February 18 (WB); one bird at a feeder in Morehead, February 12 (FB) and a few in the Inner Blue Grass area (no date given — MF). Correction — Because of an observers error in reporting, the date of the Black Tern at Oldham County Park in the August 1984 issue of The Kentucky Warbler, page 44 was incorrect. The correct date is May 7. Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), John Callahan (JC), Jane and Pat Bell (JB), (PB), W. H. Brown (WB), Jim Durell (JD), Jackie El¬ more, Sr. (JE1), M. B. Flynn (MF), Ed Groneman (EG), James W. Han¬ cock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Wilbur Jackson (WJ), Frank X. Krull (FK), Fred Loetscher (FL), Wayne Mason (WM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), William Peak (WP), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Gary Richison (GR), Rus¬ sell Starr (RS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Margaret Sul¬ livan (MS), John Young (JY), and Tom Young (TY). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Spring Meeting — April 19-21, 1985 The 62nd annual spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological So¬ ciety was held at Mammoth Cave National Park on April 19-21, 1985. The Friday evening session was called to order by the president, Blaine Ferrell. He introduced vice-president Fred Busroe, who then pre¬ sented the speakers for the evening. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. presented an interesting slide program on the Kentucky Nongame Wildlife Natural Areas Fund and its many uses in the state. Sherri Evans provided an update on the progress of the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas project. This was followed by an open discussion of Kentucky’s early nesting species and nesting behavior led by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Field trips and leaders for Saturday morning were announced. The meeting was followed by a social hour. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 33 Saturday morning field trips left the park lodge at 8:00 a.m. Wayne Mason led one trip to the River Styx area, and Blaine Ferrell led another group to Turnhole Bend, Houehen’s Ferry, and First Creek Lake. The weather was sunny and unseasonably warm, with a good representation of summer resident birds present. An afternoon program was available for members with slides and tapes of various warblers. The Board of Directors met at 4:00 p.m. at the Park Community Center. The evening meeting began in the Park Community Center at 7:30 p.m. Blaine Ferrell presented recommendations from the Board of Directors to raise the dues for contributing members to $10.00 ; and to create a new corporate membership category. Both recommendations would be voted on at the fall meeting. The possibility of increasing membership through the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas was briefly discussed. It was announced that the 1986 spring meeting would be held April 26-28 at either Otter Creek Park or the Falls of the Rough, and the 1986 fall meeting would be at either Kenlake State Park or Kentucky Dam Village State Park, with the date to be confirmed later. Herb Shadowen, Jim Williams, and Ed Wilson were presented and accepted as the Nominating Committee for the coming year. Plans for Sunday morning field trips were announced. The evening was highlighted by an outstanding presentation by Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver on the natural history of Australia. Using film and slides, they provided an excellent account of the birds and other wildlife seen during their recent trip to this fascinating continent. Blaine Ferrell led in compiling the day’s bird list, with a total of 96 species seen on Saturday. Additional birds seen Sunday brought the week¬ end total to 100 species. Total registrations for the spring meeting were 60. Respectfully submitted, Lee McNeely Recording Secretary BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1985 Bird species observed in or within a five-mile radius of Mammoth Cave National Park: Pied-billed Grebe, Great Blue Heron, Green-backed Heron, Wood Duck, Mallard, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, immature Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Red¬ shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, Killdeer, Solitary Sandpiper, Mourning Dove, Eastern Screech Owl, Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Chuck-will’s-widow, Whip- poor-will, Chimney Swift, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Acadian Fly¬ catcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great-crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Carolina Wren, House Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnateatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Swain- son’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Loggerhead Shrike, European Starling, 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow Warb¬ ler, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Palm Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, Prothonotary Warb¬ ler, Worm-eating Warbler. Ovenbird, Louisiana Waterthrush, Kentucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Hooded Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, North¬ ern Cardinal, Indigo Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Orchard Oriole, Northern Oriole, Purple Finch, House Finch, American Goldfinch, House Sparrow; total species = 100. A Summer Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and a Ruby- throated Hummingbird were observed outside the count area but during the weekend. ATTENDANCE AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1985 BOWLING GREEN: Blaine and Priscilla Ferrell, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Guthrie, Jeff Jones, Mike and Diane Jones, William B. and Ruth Mathes, Wayne Mason, Herbert E. and Jackie Shadowen. BUCKHORN: Mrs. Eileen Sandlin. BURLINGTON : Lee McNeely, Tom Stephens. CARLISLE: Wendell and Virginia Kingsolver. COVINGTON: William Jacovy, Brenda Ross. EUBANK: Jackie, Diane and Bradford Elmore. FALLS OF THE ROUGH: Joyce Potter. FRANKFORT: Marc and Sherri Evans, Howard P. Jones. GLASGOW : Mr. and Mrs. Howard M. Jones, Russell Starr. HAZARD: Dennis and Pauline Sandlin, Donnie Spencer, Benjamin Spen¬ cer. CLARKSON: Ruth Keller. LEITCHFIELD: Alita Wilson, Mandy Wilson. LEXINGTON: Mike and Jean Flynn, Jim and Gerry Williams. LOUISVILLE: Jane and Patricia Bell, Austin and Mary Frances Bloch, Robert Brown, Richard Cassell, Judi Jones, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Robert and Martha Pike, Frederick W. and Anne L. Stamm. MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe. MUNDFORDVILLE: Steve Kistler. MURRAY: Clell Peterson. OWENSBORO: Mary Lydia Greenwell, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Wilson, William T. Perkins. STANLEY : Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stevenson. FIELD NOTE FIRST RECORD OF THE CALIFORNIA GULL (Larus californicus) IN KENTUCKY Over the past ten years, the California Gull (Laras californicus) has become a quite rare, but regular vagrant to the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River and the Gulf coast. Most records have been in fall and winter. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 Throughout the past couple of years I have watched persistently for a California Gull in the large numbers of gulls that congregate in the vicinity of Kentucky and Barkley Dams, Marshall-Livingston-Lyon coun¬ ties. On March 31, 1984 I was fortunate enough to finally discover a California Gull at Kentucky Dam as it perched on the lock structure on the east side of Kentucky Lake, just above the dam. I arrived at the dam approximately 1:30 CST and was looking through the hundred or more Ring-billed Gulls (L. delawarensis) that were perched on the railing along the lock when my attention was drawn to a dark- mantled gull that was noticeably larger than the nearby Ring-bills. Closer inspection through my spotting scope revealed that the bird had a bill pattern suggestive of California Gull and yellowish-green legs, slightly dulled by a grayish wash. I moved slightly to get a better angle and could clearly see that the irides of the eyes were dark; I could not say whether brownish, blackish, or other due to the distance, but definitely dark. The color of the orbital ring could not be discerned. After becoming convinced of the bird’s identity, I called Dr. Clell Peterson in nearby Murray who immediately departed for the dam. In the meantime I further studied the gull and photographed it from as close as approximately 100 feet. Close scrutiny of the wing-tip pattern revealed that the white of the two outermost primaries was very extensive, yet another character that further reinforced the identification. The bird’s bill was not especially heavy, but was obviously larger than the nearby Ring-billed Gulls’. The bill pattern consisted of a blackish ring around the sub-terminal areas of both the upper and lower mandibles (suggestive of an adult Ring-billed Gull) but was slightly more distal towards the bill tip. The black bar on the lower mandible was adjoined proximally by an obvious red spot at the gonyeal angle. The rest of the bill was yellowish. The mantle color was a medium gray, somewhat darker than the light gray of adult Herring (L. argentatus) and Ring-billed Gulls, and was dark enough to be immediately noticeable. The underparts were entirely white, however, the inner pair of reetriees had dark smudges, somewhat more basal than the normal subterminal dark band of subadult gulls. The upper wing coverts were entirely gray and a little worn, but were devoid of any trace of blackish markings. The age of the bird was somewhat unclear. The extensive black on the upper mandible was indicative of both subadult and winter-plumaged adult birds, however, the lack of brownish mottling on the head and breast would suggest the bird was in summer plumage. The lack of any blackish markings on the upper wing coverts would indicate that the bird was an adult, however, the curious tail max-kings suggested a subadult age. Wing tip pattern is variable in the California Gull, and the observed pattern could not be assigned an age for certain, although it was certainly typical of adult birds. A supplementary field mark of which I was unaware until noted by American Birds regional editor, Bruce Peterjohn, was the short posture of the Califoi’nia Gull. Although the California Gull appeared to be of much greater bulk than the nearby Ring-bills, because of its pi'oportionate- ly shorter legs, it did not stand much taller than them. In flight, the bird was obviously larger than Ring-billed Gulls which it occasionally chased. 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 However, when a first-winter Herring Gull briefly chased the California Gull, the Herring was noticeably larger than it. By the time Dr. Peterson arrived, the bird had flown out onto Ken¬ tucky Lake 150 yards or more from the lock. While the intermediate size between Herring and Ring-billed gulls and the darker mantle color were obvious, we could no longer discern the other diagnostic field marks. The day was cloudy with light breezes, both aspects which allowed for excellent study of the gulls. Had there been bright sun, the gulls would have been silhouettes against a glare from the lake. All together, the gull was observed for about two hours before it flew a considerable distance out onto Kentucky Lake and was lost from view. Although several persons searched diligently for this bird over the next couple of days, it could not be relocated and probably moved on with the departing Ring-bills. This sighting represents the first record of the California Gull in Ken¬ tucky. While small numbers of California Gulls appear to wander regularly with the many Ring-billed Gulls in their southeastward fall movement from the Canadian Provinces to their wintering grounds in the eastern U.S., it is unknown exactly where these birds winter. With the tremendous numbers of Ring-billed Gulls that winter on the large impoundments of western Kentucky, it is not inconceivable that one or a few California Gulls may remain there with them. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. Editor’s note: Another, or possibly the same bird, was seen above Ken¬ tucky Dam on May 16, 1984 by Anne L. Stamm, Donald Summerfield and F. W. Stamm (Ky. Warbler, 60:43, 1984). NEWS AND VIEWS TAGGED TERNS The Canadian Wildlife Service, Ontario Region, is continuing its pro¬ gram of color-marking Common Terns at two colonies in the lower Great Lakes to determine their post-breeding dispersal, migration routes and winter range. In 1981 adults were marked with orange wing-tags and chicks with pink tags. Tags were put on both wings of all birds. All tags had com¬ binations of letters and numbers. In addition, all birds received a metal legband on one leg and a plastic legband (yellow with a black horizontal stripe) on the other leg. When you observe a tagged tern would you please report the date, location, color of the tag, and if possible, the number/letter combination to: BANDING OFFICE, CANADIAN WILDLIFE SERVICE, HEAD¬ QUARTERS. OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA, K1A OE7. All reports will be acknowledged. MOVING? Please inform the K.O.S. of address changes promptly. Journals re¬ turned to the K.O.S. with no address change made by members prior to publication wdl be remailed only after payment of return and remail costs. AtBIbRT R. MANN LIBRARY i The Kentucky Warbler 3 (Published by the Kentucky Orni VOL. 61 AUGUST, 1985 NO. 3 IN THIS ISSUE PLUMAGE VARIABILITY AND SOCIAL STATUS IN CAPTIVE MALE HOUSE SPARROWS, Gary Ritchison 39 THE SPRING MIGRATION OF 1985, Anne L. Stamm 42 THE 1985 BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY, James S. Durell and Anne L. Stamm . 48 FIELD NOTES . 49 NEWS AND VIEWS . 52 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Vice-President Fred Busroe, Morehead Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Miss Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors : Wayne Mason, Bowling Green 1983-1985 Jim Durell, Lexington 1983-1985 Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro 1984-1986 Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1984-1986 Retiring President Pierre Allaire, Jackson Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $6.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; 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 B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER Our thanks go to Bert Powell for the excellent cover photograph of the Barn Owl (Tyto alba). See Field Notes 1935 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 PLUMAGE VARIABILITY AND SOCIAL STATUS IN CAPTIVE MALE HOUSE SPARROWS Gary Ritchison Flocking is a widespread phenomenon among birds that winter in temperate regions. Such behavior may provide many benefits ( Brown 1975, Bertram 1975, Bertram 1978) ; however, flocking may also impose cer¬ tain costs, one of which is the promotion of intraspecific competition for essential resources. This competition may result in energetically costly fighting or may even lead to injury and death. The cost of such competition may be reduced by social systems that function to order individual priorities at resources and to regulate the frequency, form, and intensity of aggres¬ sive behavior (Balph 1977). Recently, it has been suggested that an indi¬ vidual’s status within such social systems may be predetermined by inter¬ individual variation in various plumage characters. Rohwer (1975, 1977) and Rohwer and Ewald (1981) have noted that wintering birds may differ- markedly in the degree to which they vary intraspecifically in appearance and indicated that flocking species tend to exhibit polymorphism in plumage coloration or patterns, whereas non-flocking species show monomorphism. Rohwer (1975:594) speculated that in flocking species “. . . plumage vari¬ ability has evolved to signal the approximate social status of each individ¬ ual.” According to Rohwer, position in a dominance hierarchy within variably plumaged species is signaled by the degree to which each exhibits black, brightly colored, or contrastingly patterned plumage on the head or breast ( i.e . “studliness”) . Such status advertisement should be especially advantageous if flocks are large or unstable as it should enable both an incoming bird and establish flock members to assess the newcomer’s proper social position without engaging in energetically costly fights (Rohwer 1975). After a series of tests, Rohwer concluded that such status signaling does occur in Harris’ Sparrows ( Zonotrichici querula). He also suggested, on the basis of qualitative observations of some other species, that this may be a widespread phenomenon. Subsequent investigations (Shields 1977, Ketterson 1979b) have pointed out possible problems with Rohwer’s hypothesis and, therefore, Balph et al. (1979) have stressed the need for information on the behavior of a variety of winter flocking birds before a satisfactory model of social status signal¬ ing can be formulated — if such a model is possible. A flocking species that exhibits much plumage variability and has not yet been examined with regard to the status signaling hypothesis in the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus). These birds are both dichromatic (adult males have gray crowns and first-year birds have brown crowns) and polymorphic (males show variation in the distribution of black plumage on their throats and breasts). The objective of the present study was to examine the possible relationships between plumage variability and social status in captive flocks of male House Sparrows. METHODS Male House Sparrows were captured in mist nets at Eastern Kentucky University’s Stateland Dairy Center (Richmond, KY ) on three occasions; 15 birds were captured on 8 November 1983, and 10 were captured on 6 September 1982 and 27 January 1983, respectively. All birds captured on one day made up one experimental flock. The age (adult or first-year bird) 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 and wing length of each sparrow were recorded and each bird was indi¬ vidually marked with color bands. Each flock was placed in a flight cage (1.9 m3) made of wood and aluminum screening and was observed for six hours over a period of about two weeks. Dominance-subordination relationships among all members of each flock were ascertained through interactions at various resources in the cage (i.e., water, food, and perches). Only active displacements involving obvious supplants, aggressive displays, or fighting were considered. The sparrows were starved for l-2h prior to the observation periods and, therefore, nearly 90% of all interactions were noted at the feeder. After observations were completed the sparrows were sacrificed and a tracing was made of each bird’s throat patch. The area of each patch was then determined and each bird was assigned a plumage rank (105-109 mm2 = 1, 100-104 mm2 = 2, 95-99 mm2 = 3, . . . , 35-39 mm2 = 15). Plumage ranks were used instead of the actual areas in an attempt to ensure that small errors in the determination of the area would not in¬ fluence the analysis. RESULTS and DISCUSSION In an attempt to determine whether or not plumage differences might serve a status-signaling function in House Sparrows, data were examined for possible associations between the area of a bird’s throat patch and its social status. Analysis revealed that individuals with larger throat patches were dominant in 118 (64%) of the 185 two-bird combinations in which the two individuals differed in plumage rank, a result that differed sig¬ nificantly from the hypothesis of equal dominance (X2 = 7.03, df=l, P<0.05). Thus, the area of the throat patch appears to be a predictor of social rank in male House Sparrows. Factors such as age and body size have also been found to be predictors of social position in some species. For example, Balph et al. (1979) reported that larger juncos (as estimated by wing length) were dominant in 78% of all interactions and, further, Ketterson (1974) noted that older juncos tended to dominate younger individuals. Male House Sparrows can easily be aged by examination of their crown since adults have gray crowns and juveniles have brown crowns (Watson 1970). Analysis revealed that adults were dominant in 70% (33 of 47) of the relationships involving adults and juveniles (X2=6.74, df^ 1, P<^0.01). Thus, crown color also appears to be a predictor of social rank in male House Sparrows. Watson (1970) also noted that adult House Sparrows tended to dominate juveniles. Surprisingly, larger individuals (as estimated by wing length) were not found to be consistently dominant over smaller individuals (only 88 of 181 relation¬ ships; X2 = 0.07, df= 1, NS). Cink (1977) suggested that there was a cor¬ relation between body size and dominance in House Sparrows but he further indicated that such a correlation existed only when food avail¬ ability was low and the energetic needs of the birds were high, i.e., on cold days (- — 5° C) with snow cover. Thus, it is perhaps not unexpected that no correlation was noted in the controlled environment of the laboratory. The above results suggested a correlation between the size of the throat patch and social status and also between age (i.e.. crown color) and status. However, these two factors do not vary independently on one another in House Sparrows. Although there is variability within (and overlap be¬ tween) age classes, adults generally tend to have larger throat patches than juveniles. The average plumage rank of 23 adults was 4.2 (SD = 2.9) 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 41 while the average rank of 12 juveniles was 8.7 (SD = 3.7). A question that arises therefore concerns the relative contributions of age and the size of the throat patch in signaling social status. If the size of the throat patch more accurately reflects social status than does age then associations be¬ tween the size of the throat patch and status should be similar for sparrows of the same or different ages. However, it was found that individuals with larger throat patches were dominant in a significantly greater proportion of interage (adult vs. juvenile) than intra-age relationships (adult vs. adult or juvenile vs. juvenile; 74% as compared to 56%, x2 = 4.29, df=l, P<0.05). In other words, the dominance of adults with larger throat patches over juveniles with smaller throat patches appeared to account for much of the signal value associated with the throat patch. Thus, it appears that age ( i.e crown color) is a better, although imperfect, predictor of social status in male House Sparrows than is the size of an individual’s throat patch. In this regard it seems that the social status signaling sys¬ tem of male House Sparrows is similar to that proposed for Dark-eyed Juncos by Balph et al. (1979). They indicated that in j uncos associations between plumage attributes and social position appeared to be imperfect and depended primarily, but not solely, upon differences of age or sex. Ketterson ( 1979a : 97 ) similarly noted that sex and age were “good pre¬ dictors of dominance status” in Dark-eyed Juncos. Rohwer et al. (1981) reported similar results in Harris’ Sparrows. That is, they found that first-year birds often possessed smaller “bibs” (i.e., throat patches) than did adults and, therefore, age (i.e., the dominance of adults with larger bibs over first-year birds with smaller bibs) contributed, at least in part, to the association between bib size and social status. In summary, it appears that Rohwer’s (1975) orginal hypothesis may have overestimated the association between certain plumage characteristics and social status. The results of the present study and those of Balph et al. (1979), Ketterson (1979a), and Rohwer et al. (1981) seem to suggest that although individuals may be attentive to plumage cues and such cues may play some role in determining social status, the imperfect associa¬ tion between plumage characters and status indicate that other factors (e.g., age, sex, size and previous experience) are also important. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I wold like to thank Bill Farrar and Tammy Rhodus for assistance in capturing the sparrows and Peter David for helping with the observations. This research was supported by an Eastern Kentucky University faculty research grant. Literature Cited Balph, M. H. 1977. Winter social behaviour of dark-eyed juncos: communi¬ cation, social organization, and ecological implications. Anim. Behav. 25:859-884. Balph, M. H., D. F. Balph, and H. C. Romesburg. 1979. Social status signaling in winter flocking birds: an examination of a current hy¬ pothesis. Auk 96:78-93. Bertram, B. C. R. 1978. Living in groups, predators and prey. In : Be¬ havioural Ecology: An Evolutionary Approach (J. R. Krebs and W. B. Davies, eds.) , pp. 64-96. Sinauer Associates, Sunderland, Mass. 42 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Brown, J. 1975. The Evolution of Behavior. W. W. Norton and Co., New York. Cink, C. L. 1977. Winter ecology and behavior of North American House Sparrow populations. Unpubl. Ph.D. diss., Univ. of Kansas, Lawrence. Ketterson, E. D. 1974. Geographic variation in sex ratio among wintering dark-eyed juncos (Junco hyemalis). Unpubl. Ph.D. diss., Indiana Univ., Bloomington. Ketterson, E. D. 1979a. Status signaling in dark-eyed juncos. Auk 96:94-99. Ketterson, E. D. 1979b. Aggressive behavior in wintering dark-eyed juncos: determinants of dominance and their possible relation to geographic variation in the sex ratio. Wilson Bull. 91:371-383. Rohwer, S. 1975. The social significance of avian winter plumage variability. Evolution 29:593-610. Rohwer, S. 1977. Status signaling in Harris’ Sparrows: some experiments in deception. Behaviour 61:107-129. Rohwer, S. and P. W. Ewald. 1981. The cost of dominance and advantage of subordination in a badge signaling system. Evolution 35:441-454. Rohwer, S., P. W. Ewald, and F. C. Rohwer. 1981. Variation in size, ap¬ pearance, and dominance within and among the sex and age classes of Harris’ Sparrows. J. Field Ornithol. 52:291-303. Shields, W. M. 1977. The Social Significance of avian winter plumage variability: a Comment. Evolution 31:905-907. Watson, J. R. 1970. Dominance-subordination in caged groups of house sparrows. Wilson Bull. 82:268-278. — Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Rich¬ mond, Kentucky 40475 THE SPRING MIGRATION OF 1985 Anne L. Stamm It was an unusual spring with temperatures above noimal for all three months. March was unusually warm. Precipitation was below normal for all three months, particularly in April. However, in early May the water was high in some areas in western Kentucky, especially along the Mississippi River. The majority of observers felt that the spring was not exciting, one said: “migration was dull” and another felt that we “never had a good wave of migrants.” Warbler migration was disappointing to some and their numbers were low. Some of the more unusual species were the White- fronted Geese, Cinnamon Teal, Mississippi Kite in central Kentucky, Laugh¬ ing Gulls and Least Terns. There were also a few sightings of the rare Bachman's Sparrow. A good number of nesting records were included in the reports, these will be used in the summer summary. Breeding data are essential in order to establish a more accurate evaluation of the present status of the breed¬ ing birds of the state. Therefore, observers are urged to include all breed¬ ing information in future reports. Loons through Herons — One to four Common Loons were sighted between March 18 and May 1 at the following locations: Lake Pewee, Louisville, Fort Knox, Waitsboro Recreational area, Lexington and Greenbo Lake (m.ob.). Horned Grebes were scarce. A group of 100 Double-crested Cormorants at Lake #9, April 6 was the largest flock reported (BPB, R. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 C’icerello, B. Butler) ; one to five birds at Kentucky and Smithland Dams (BPB et al.), Falls of the Ohio (BS, DD, BPB) and a single bird near Richmond (DN). An American Bittern in west Lexington, March 23 was the only one reported (MF). Although the Great Blue Heron was not as commonly seen as usual, at least 28 were found in scattered areas in the bottoms of Fulton County on May 12 (S, FS) and numerous all over Bal¬ lard County on May 20 (CP). Great Egrets were not as numerous as last spring; single birds appeared as early as March 29 at Louisville (LR) and Shippingport Island (B. Anderson fide BPB) ; three to four at Clark Fish Hatchery (FB); two at Cox’s Creek (PT) ; one at Mayfair Basins (DN) ; thirteen in the bottoms of Fulton County, May 12 (S, FS) ; six at the latter locations on May 26 and one at Ballard County on May 23 and 25 (BBC). Twelve adult Little Blue Herons were found in Mud Creek bot¬ toms, Fulton County, April 6 (BPB et al.) ; a single at Clark Hatchery, April 15 (FB); two birds over the Falls of the Ohio on May 14 (BPB) and two adults along the Mississippi River, Fulton County, May 26 (BBC). Single Cattle Egrets arrived as early as April 20 in Anderson County (CP) and in Warren County on April 21 (DM) ; two below Barkley Dam, April 27 and five on Shippingport Island on May 10 were also reported (BPB). Fifty Black-crowned Night Herons had returned to Shippingport Island by March 29 (BPB) ; eight birds at Elizabethtown on April 4 (G. Elliott fide DN) ; a count of 156 on the Falls of the Ohio, May 4 (LR) and 185 there May 7 (BPB). A few more Yellow-crowned Night Herons were reported than usual : eight at Shippingport Island in early April where they remained throughout the period (BPB) ; several were back in Lexing¬ ton on April 10 (MF) ; four near Shepherdsville, May 24 (KC) ; one at the Falls, May 25 (S) and one in Fulton County on May 26 (BBC). Large numbers of Canada Geese passed over Lexington during the period (MF) ; a rather late flock of 32 on Long Run County Park Lake on May 27 and a single bird at Smith’s Pond, Oldham County, May 31 (S, FS). There were three reports of White-fronted Geese: singles at Dix Dam, Mercer County in early March (W. Kemper fide FL), Honker Bay and on a lake on the Paradise Steam Plant, Muhlenberg County, April 14 (BPB, D. Ebel). A flock of 149 Blue-winged Teal was seen at Hays Ken¬ nedy Park, Louisville on April 6 (DN, LR) ; a few lingered until late May in Fulton County (BPB). An unusual find was the Cinnamon Teal on the Long Point Tract, Fulton County on April 30 (CP, F. Houser). Twenty-five American Widgeons were at Mayfair Basins, March 30 (S. FS). A single Greater Scaup was at Clark Hatchery (JE1) and Louisville (S, FS), March 24 and 30, respectively; and a flock of 16 on Kentucky Lake, April 14 (BPB, D. Ebel). The Common Merganser was present at Lexington Reservoir in early April (BA) ; no others reported. Red-breasted Mergansers were reported on the Lexington Reservoir, Ohio River at Louisville and Lake Pewee between March 24 and May 1, with a maximum of 16 at Louisville (BPB) and 20 at Lake Pewee (JH); a few lingered until May 16 (BS, DD, BPB). Ruddy Ducks were present at six locations with 61 as the maximum at Lake Pewee on March 20 (JH) ; a single straggler was at Petersburg, Boone County, May 18 (LMc). Hawks — Ten to 15 Black and Turkey Vultures were seen along Ken¬ tucky River and at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in early March (MF); also 15 Blacks at Clark Hatchery on March 24 (FB, JE1). Turkey Vulture migration was noted at Clark Hatchery on March 14 with 37 present, but 86 and 87 were there on March 16 and 24, respectively (FB); a total of 44 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 34 in Boone County while taking a spring bird count, May 11 (LMc). One to three Ospreys visited Clark Hatchery between March 25 and April 22 (FB) ; singles at Pulaski County Park (JE1), Falls of the Ohio (BPB), Kentucky Dam (BPB, B. Anderson) and two at a watershed Lake in Grayson County (BF), all in April; a fairly late straggler in Fayette County on May 2 (BA). A single Mississippi Kite was seen in Fulton, Fulton County on May 4 (BM) ; three at Columbus Belmont Park, May 11, eight there on May 13 and four along the levee, Fulton County, May 13 (S, FS) ; nine over Ballard County, two over Wickliffe and one at Columbus Belmont Park, May 25 (BBC); and one as far east as Otter Creek Park, Meade County, May 15 (DD). There were two unusual Bald Eagle records: an immature at First Creek Lake in the Mammoth Cave National Park area, April 21 (LMc, Wm. Jacoby, Tom Stephens); and two in northeast Jefferson County on May 7 (KC, Doris Mager, S. Pickitt). Northern Har¬ riers, Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks were present, but in low numbers. Red-shouldered Hawks continue to be scarce in some areas, but were re¬ ported in Jefferson, Hopkins and Edmonson Counties. The Broad-winged Hawk in Boyle County, March 8, was one day later than Kentucky’s earliest record (Wm. Kemper ficle FL). A Peregrine Falcon was reported for the Falls of the Ohio, May 16 (DD, BS). Grouse through Cranes — Ruffed Grouse were seen at Greenbo Lake State Park on May 3 and 4 (MF). Single Wild Turkeys were present at Fort Knox on April 23 and May 12 (JG). The only Sora was reported from Frankfort Fish Hatchery (no date — MF). Single Common Moorhens were present on the Falls of the Ohio, April 24 (BPB) and at Clark Hatchery, May 18 (BPB, R. Cassell), while four birds were at the latter location on May 19 and 23 and two still there on June 1 (FB). A Maximum of 228 American Coots was observed on Lake Pewee, March 20 (JH; one was still present at Reelfoot NWR, May 26 (BBC). A few records of Sandhill Cranes moving northward included 10 over eastern Jefferson County, March 25 (BPB) and five over south Fayette County during the period (no date — B. Maxson fide MF). Shorebirds — Comments on the shorebird migration were mixed. Flights were disappointing in Fayette County, while above average in Boone County and habitat was somewhat limited in western Kentucky in early May. A single Black-bellied Plover made its appearance below Mc- Alpine Dam, May 1 (LR), two there on May 7 (BPB); four at Clark Hatchery, May 18 (BPB). Lesser Golden Plovers were scarce, although about 50 fed in the bottoms of Fulton County, April 6 (BPB et al.) . Serni- palmated Plovers were fairly widespread and present from April 28 at Louisville (LR) to May 27 at Clark Hatchery (FB), with high counts of 14 at the former location (LR) and 35 at the latter, May 18 (BPB); one to 12 at Lake #9 (BBC), Reelfoot NWR (S, FS), East Bend (LMc) and Frankfort Fish Hatchery (BPB, L. Andrews). Thirteen American Avocets were found below Me Alpine Dam on April 27 (LR, et al.) . A single Greater Yellowleg on a farm pond, March 29 (DN), approximately 100 in the bottoms of Fulton County, April 6 (BPB, et al.) and the one in Trigg County on April 19 were the only ones reported (CP). Lesser Yellowlegs were numerous in Fulton County with “hundreds” on April 6 (BPB et al.) and 66 at Clark Hatchery on April 27 (FB) ; scarce at the Falls of Ohio; nineteen at Mayfair Basins, April 29 (DN). Solitary Sandpipers were scarce with only one to four birds reported at each of six widespread loca- 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 45 tions. As usual, Spotted Sandpipers were late in arriving and numbers were low. A single Upland Plover was seen near Rich Pond, Warren County on April 21 (BPB, R. Cassell, Sherri and Mark Evans). The only Ruddy Turnstones reported were one to five at the Falls of the Ohio on May 7-21 (BPB) and one at Clark Hatchery, May 18 (BPB, R. Cassell). Remarkable Semipalmated Sandpiper concentrations included 85 at Falls of the Ohio, May 19 (BPB) ; 95 at Frankfort Fish Hatchery, May 20 (BPB, L. Andrews) ; 175-200 at Lake #9, May 26 (BBC) — 27 (BPB, B. Anderson, J. MacGregor) ; 76 at Clark Hatchery, May 23 (FB) and 30 at Danville area, June 1 (FL). White-rumped Sandpipers were fairly well distributed and included 13 at the Falls of the Ohio, May 21-24 (BPB), two at Mayfair Basins, May 22 (DN), one at Frankfort Hatchery, May 20 (BPB, L. Andrews), five to 14 at Clark Hatchery, May 21 and 23 respectively (FB), 20 at Lake #9, May 26 (BBC) and 80 there May 30 (BPB et al.) . Pectoral Sandpipers were seen all across the state, but only in numbers of one to two, except in the bottoms of Fulton County where “hundreds” were re¬ ported on April 6 (BPB, R. Cicerello, B. Butler). The only Dunlins re¬ ported were two at Clark Hatchery on April 27 and May 23 (FB) and one at the Falls of the Ohio May 8 (BPB) and 18 (LR, BPB). Although Short- billed Dowitchers are uncommon spring transients two were present at Mayfair Basins, May 12 and 16 (BPB) and at Clark Hatchery, May 18 (BPB) and 19 (FB). There were six dowitcher spp. on the Falls of the Ohio on May 21 (BPB, J. Molloy) and one at Clark Hatchery, May 18 (BPB, R. Cassell). Few Common Snipe were reported, but at least 33 were at Lentz’s Pond, Louisville during the last week of March (DN). A single Wilson’s Phalarope was seen at Reelfoot NWR on April 6 (BPB et al.) . Gulls and Terns - — Bonaparte’s Gulls returned to Cave Run Lake on March 24 with eight plus birds ( JE1 ) and six at the Falls of the Ohio, March 30 (LR) ; numbers increased in April with 35 at Clark Hatchery (FB), some 35-40 at Frankfort Hatchery (MF) and 550 at Kentucky Lake, April 14 (BPB, D. Ebel) ; singles lingered until May 24 at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) and May 27 at Kentucky Lake (BBC). Ring-billed Gull concen¬ trations included 150+ at Clark Hatchery, March 5 (FB), about 200 at Green River State Park, March 3 (JE1) and 200 at Kentucky and Barkley Dams (BPB) ; four birds lingered at Louisville until May 25 (S, FS) and one still present in early June (BPB). One to seven Caspian Terns visited the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) and peaks of 12 to 20 at Barkley Lake above the Dam (BPB et al.). A single Common Tern was seen with two Forster’s Terns at Hickman, May 12 (S, FS). Two Forster’s Terns arrived at Pulaski County Park on April 18 (JE1) ; two at the Falls of the Ohio on April 19, 23 and 25 (BPB) and at Barkley and Kentucky Lakes above the dams, April 27 (BPB, B. Anderson, L. Andrews); and seven at Douglas Lake, Fort Knox, April 27 (JG). Also, a number of Sterna spp. were sighted at Smithland, Barkley and Kentucky Dams on May 22-23 (BPB, B. Anderson). Three Least Terns were seen along the Mississippi at Hickmam on May 12 (S, FS) ; eight to 10 were at Smithland Dam, May 22-23 (BPB, B. Anderson) ; one at Chalk Bluff, Hickman County, May 25, two at Fulton County Pumping Station, May 26, ten along the levee and Lake #9 in Fulton County, May 26 (BBC )and again at Smithland Dam, May 31 (BPB). The only Black Terns reported were from Smithland Dam and Barkley Lake on May 22-23, with a high count of 30 birds at the former location (BPB, B. Anderson). 46 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — A number of observers felt that Yellow-billed Cuckoos were scarce. Single Black-billed Cuckoos were seen at four locations: Lexington Cemetery, Greenbo Lake State Park, Greenup County (R. Morris fide MF), east Louisville and Falls of the Ohio (BPB). Common Nighthawks were late in arriving and first reported in Estill County, April 20 (BA); a high count of 42 in Louisville, May 19 (DN). The Chuck-will’s-widow was first heard at Mammoth Cave National Fark and at Madisonville, April 20 and 22 (KOS, JH, respectively) ; present also at Buckley Hills Nature Sanctuary, Raven Run Sanctuary and Boggs Farm, near Lexington (MF). There were fair numbers of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC). Little com¬ ment was made on the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, but few were noted this spring in the Lexington area (MF). Flycatchers — Olive-sided Flycatchers were reported from six loca¬ tions: Cave Hill Cemetery (LR), Shippingport Island (BPB), Bernheim Forest, Otter Creek Park (BS, DD), Lexington Cemetery (MF) and Daniel Boone National Forest in Lee County (MF). Yellow-bellied Fly¬ catchers were seen at Lexington Cemetery, May 12 (BA) and at the Falls of the Ohio, May 12 and 15 (BPB). The Alder Flycatcher, an uncommon spring transient, was seen and heard at Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, May 25 and at the Falls of the Ohio, May 12, 14 and 28 (BPB). There were more reports of the Willow Flycatcher than usual: one rather early bird at Clark Hatchery, May 7, but three there from May 19-27 (FB); one at Petersburg on May 11 and remained throughout the period (LMc) ; at the Falls of Ohio on May 10, numerous at Shippingport Island in late May (BPB) and one in east Louisville, May 12 (DN). Least Fly¬ catchers were reported at Independence (EG), the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) and Big Black Mountain, where six birds were heard calling on May 27 (DN). Swallows through Wrens — Purple Martins arrived later than usual and fewer were seen at nesting boxes. Tree Swallows were first noted at Lexington and Cave Run Lake on March 24 (BA, JE1, respectively), with a count of 95 birds at Clark Hatchery, April 7 (FB). Bank Swallows were probably the most numerous: “hundreds” below Smithland Dam, May 22- 23 and a small colony near Laketon, May 30 (BPB et a!.); also at the Falls of the Ohio with a peak of 25 birds, May 24 (BPB). Cliff Swallows appeared to be in low numbers: 25 at Barkley Dam, May 11 were the only ones reported (S, FS). The Carolina Wren seemed to have survived the severe winter in the Bluegrass area (MF), while it showed some de¬ crease in northern Kentucky (LMc). The only Bewick’s Wrens were re¬ ported from Calloway County at two locations on April 28 and May 10 (CP). No House Wrens were found at Fort Knox where they have been common for the past four years (JG). Winter Wrens were still present at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary and Madisonville, April 3 and 9 (BA, .TH, respectively). The only Sedge Wren was reported at Fort Knox, May 5 (JG) and a Marsh Wren near Union, May 11 (LMc). Kinglets through Shrikes — Ruby-crowned Kinglets were fewer than usual while Golden-crowned were in good numbers, especially at Lexington in March (MF). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet was still present at Greenbo Lake State Park, May 4 (BA). Reports on thrushes were mixed, but the majority of observers felt that numbers were low, especially Gray-cheeked. Swain- son’s Thrushes were common on mulberry bushes at Clark Park, Louisville 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 47 from May 6-25 (BS). The Cedar Waxwing migration was late and flocks did not appear until May 16-27 (DN, S, BPB). Few Loggerhead Shrikes were reported: only four sightings. Vireos through Warblers — A pair of Bell’s Vireos was seen on the West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, May 26 (BBC). A Solitary Vireo on Cumberland Gap was early on March 24 (BA) ; six were present on Big Black Mountain on May 27 (DN). Yellow-throated Vireos were seen or heard on at least six locations in Mammoth Cave National Park, April 19-20 (DN, KOS). The only Philadelphia Vireo was reported at Lexington Cemetery, May 12 (BA). The warbler migration was disap¬ pointing to many observers; seme thought it “dull” and others “very poor.” In Danville, however, only the Tennessee and Cape May Warblers seemed “up to, or over, average numbers” (FL). A Tennessee Warbler was still heard singing on June 1 in the Danville area (FL). There were fair numbers of Northern Parula Warblers in western Kentucky in Fulton and Hickman Counties on April 6 (BPB et al.). Eleven Yellow Warblers were heard singing at Shippingport Island on May 7 (DN). The Cape May Warbler was reported from eight locations (m. ob.) and 12 were in one group at Bernheim Forest, April 27 (BM, BBC). A single female Black- throated Blue Warbler was observed at the Falls of the Ohio, May 12 (BPB) and at least 20 on Black Mountain, but only on the highest points, May 27 (DN). The Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warbler was most common on April 19 at Madisonville (JH) and at Clark Park, April 22 (BS). A Blackburnian Warbler lingered at the Falls of the Ohio on May 25 (S) and at Burlington, May 28 (LMc). A Pine Warbler was seen in McCreary County, March 17 (JE1). At least 10 Palm Warblers were present at Bowling Green on April 19 (BF). Blackpoll Warblers arrived at Madiscn- ville and Bowling Green, April 19 (JH, BF, respectively). Good numbers of Prothonotary Warblers were found along the Salt River (JG). A Louisiana Waterthrush was seen at Greenbo Lake State Park, May 4 (BA) ; one on Clear Creek, Bell County, May 26-27 (DN). Connecticut Warblers were observed on the U. of K. Farm, as in past years, May 20-28 (MF) ; two at Shippingport Island, May 15 and one May 24 (BPB). The Mourning Warbler was seen on several occasions at the Falls of the Ohio, May 12-24 (BPB) and a male in Bell County, May 26 (DN). At least seven Canada Warblers were on Big Black Mountain, May 27, where they are known to nest (DN). Tanagers through Finches — There were few reports on the tanager migration, although Scarlet Tanagers were in good numbers in the Fort Knox area (JG). Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were scarce in many areas and Blue Grosbeaks were reported as far east as Mercer and Fayette Counties. Dickcissels were common in southern Fulton County May 11-13 (S, FS). A Henslow’s Sparrow on April 27 near Middle Creek, Boone County, remained throughout the period (LMc) ; no others reported. Two Bachman’s Sparrows were interesting finds near Hamlin, Calloway County, May 13 (CP) and one heard near New Concord, Calloway County, May 26 (BBC). Both the Vesper and Savannah Sparrows were recorded at Clark Hatchery from April 1-7 (FB). Bobolinks were common at Masterson Station, Lexington with an estimated 50 pair in late May (MF) ; one heard singing near Harrodsburg, June 1 may be a potential nester (FL) ; one male along the trace in Land Between the Lakes, May 13 was unusual there (S, FS). A flock of 100 Rusty Blackbirds, near the Lexington Reser- 48 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 voir, April 1, was the only concentration reported (BA); a single male in the Louisville area, May 12 established a late date (DN). Northern (Baltimore) Orioles were quite common in Boyle, Meade and Hickman Counties and in usual numbers in Woodford, Jessamine, Mercer and Fayette Counties. There was a noticeable increase in the House Finch in northern Kentucky (LMc), also flocks of 70 noted at various feeders in the Blue- grass area (MF). Small numbers of Pine Siskins fed at feeders in March and early April in Louisville, Madisonville, Fort Knox and Fern Creek; eight to ten were still present at the latter location on May 27 and 31 (S). Thirty American Goldfinches fed at two feeders in the Fern Creek area on March 17, but numbers tapered off after that time. Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Kathryn Clay (KC), Don Devitt (DD), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Blaine Ferrell (BF), Michael Flynn (MF), John Getgood (JG), Ed Groneman (EG), James W. Hancock (JH), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Donald Mott (DM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Bernice Shannon (BS), Anne L. Stamm (S), Frederick W. Stamm (FS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Phyllis Theiss (PT). Other abbreviations — Beckham Bird Club (BBC), many observers (m. ob.), Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge (Reel- foot NWR ) . — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. THE 1985 BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY James S. Durell and Anne L. Stamm The 1985 statewide Bald Eagle count was conducted in cooperation with the National Wildlife Federation Raptor Information Center and in conjunction with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Waterfowl census. The census period was January 2-16, 1985, with the target date in Kentucky as January 4. The weather during the entire census period was unfavorable. One to three inches of snow was on the ground in some areas while freezing rain occurred in some sections of the east. Food supply in most locations ap¬ peared to be ample. There was a census total of 143 Bald Eagles: 94 adults and 49 im- matures. An adult Golden Eagle was also reported in the Land Between the Lakes area. The Bald Eagle figures represent a 35.3% decrease from 1984, and 5.9% increase over 1983. Of the 35.3% decrease, 29% (64 eagles) occurred in areas with inflated numbers last year that resulted from the freeze-up of Reelfoot Lake. This forced a large concentration of the Reel- foot eagles to move into Kentucky for open water. New counters in two very productive areas in 1984 reported no eagles this year. These were Obion and Mayfield creek and lakes in the Barlow Bottoms, all near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Eagle numbers increased on the Ohio River, Carrsville to Cincinnati, on Green River Lake, and Laurel Lake. Lake Cumberland reported fewer eagles, probably due to poor visibility. Table I is the summary of the 1985 census and includes a three- year (1983-1985) comparison of the Bald Eagle counts. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 49 Other hawks recorded in connection with the census included three Ospreys (two at Taylorsville Lake, one at Dale Hollow, no details), five Northern Harriers, one Sharp-shinned, three Cooper’s, two Red-shouldered, 76 Red-tailed, one Rough-legged and two unidentified hawks, as well as. 105 American Kestrels. TABLE 1 — Summary: Kentucky Eagle Census, .January 2-16, 1985 and Comparison with Previous Censuses. LOCATION BALD EAGLES Ad. 1985 Imm. Total 1984 Total 1983 Total Mississippi River 13 8 21 72 15 Land Between the Lakes* 26 13 39 54 41 Ohio River, Wickliffe to Carrsville (N. Livingston) 22 12 34 47 25 Ohio River, Carrsville to Owensboro 4 3 7 3 5 Ohio River, Owensboro to Meldahl Dam 4 2 6 4 9 Green River Lake 5 i 6 3 3 Kentucky River — Bluegrass Ordinance — i 1 1 — Dale Hollow 7 2 9 8 12 Cave Run and Grayson Lakes 2 2 4 7 1 Lake Cumberland, Big South Fork 4 2 6 16 18 Dewey Lake — 1 1 — — Laurel Lake 7 2 9 6 6 TOTALS 94 49 143 221 135 *One adult Golden Eagle was observed at this census site in 1985. There were 47 parties in the field and 82 participants. Groups partici¬ pating included the Kentucky Ornithological Society, biologists from the federal and state Fish and Wildlife agencies, TVA and U. S. Forest Service personnel, and a few interested individuals from other organizations. The writers wish to thank all participants and to request their con¬ tinued support next year. — Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Service, Frankfort 4C601 and 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. FIELD NOTES BLACK VULTURES NESTING IN AN ABANDONED BUILDING The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is fairly common but local permanent resident in Kentucky, nesting locally through the western two- thirds of the state. Documented nestings of the species in the state are few (Mengel, The Birds of Kentucky, A.O.U. Monogr. 3, 1965) and nest sites published range from caves in rock cliffs to hollow trees. Bent (Life Histories of North American Birds of Prey, Vol. I, U.S. Nat. Mus. Bull. 167:1-409, 1937) also mentions similar nesting locations in caves, hollow trees and on the ground under vegetation, but does not include the utiliza¬ tion of abandoned buildings. Unlike its close relative, the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), the Black Vulture apparently nests in abandoned build¬ ings only rarely. 50 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Brown reported nesting of Black Vultures in an abandoned farm house in Henry County, Kentucky in June of 1983 (Stamm, Ky. Warbler 59(4): 50-60, 1983). The following account describes the successful but rarely documented utilization of an abandoned building by Black Vultures for nesting. On 3 June 1984 we were walking on the University of Louisville’s Horner Wildlife Sanctuary 2 km west of Brownsboro, Oldham County, when we discovered an adult Black Vulture in a small, abandoned building. The bird was sitting in a corner and made a repeated hissing noise inter¬ spersed with a low growling sound. We withdrew from the building and then re-entered a few minutes later. This time the bird rose onto its feet, revealing two eggs which it had been incubating. The eggs were pale gray-green in color with a scattering of dark brownish spots at the larger end. After one-two minutes of hissing and growling, without effect upon us, the adult vulture suddenly extended its neck, lowered its head and discharged a line of viscous, dark vomit at the edge of the “nest” area closest to us. The odor from the vomit was powerful and led us to exit the building. The building in which the nesting bird was found had apparently been a workshop located adjacent to the main farmhouse. The roof of the farmhouse had collapsed, but the workshop was relatively intact. The faim buildings on the sanctuary had been abandoned for at least 15 years. The buildings are located in an overgrown area of mixed mature and medium¬ sized trees on the edge of a steep, west-facing hillside overlooking a valley running north-south. The workshop building was a wooden frame structure 5.5 x 3.1 meters with a poured concrete floor and was partitioned into two rooms. The front room had two windows, one of which was broken out entirely, and an outside door. The door was ajar, and remained that way throughout the summer. There was also a 40-cm-square hole in the other¬ wise intact roof of the building. This hole resulted from the collapse of a brick chimney and was located over the partition which separated the building into two rooms. The vulture and its eggs were found in the back room of the building and in the corner formed by the north wall of the building and the dividing partition. The two eggs were found resting directly on the concrete floor. Although there was a thin layer of rotten wood, dirt, bits of cloth, and other trash scattered over the floor, the whole area around the eggs appeared to have been cleared of all debris. Visits to the area were continued over the summer of 1984 and the following supplementary notes were made: June 17 — again found one adult bird sitting on two eggs in same location. Much hissing and growling again, but no vomiting. June 23 — Found the adult biids in usual location. However, when it arose two down-covered chicks were revealed. These birds were of a rich tan or buff color. July 8 — Chicks a little larger, adult was absent when we arrived. Chicks hissed and growled at us. They also huddled together, spread their wings and lowered their heads toward the ground in our direction. July 22 — Chicks still down-covered and rather small. First noticed a powerful odor typical of poultry farms in the building. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 51 July 28 — As we approached the building an adult vulture flew up from the open doorway and perched for a few seconds on one of the two stand¬ ing chimneys of the farmhouse before finally flying off. Chicks still rather small. August 4 — Chicks growing some — smell now noticeable even outside of the building. No adults seen. August 25 — Chicks larger now with some dark primary feathers coming in. No adults seen. September 6 — Some tan down still visible on lower body, but young birds mostly black now. No adults seen. September 9- — Young birds large now, almost all black. For the first time they were up off the floor, perched on crossbars in the wall about 1.2 meters above the floor. No adults seen. September 16 — Found both young birds perched on the roof of the farm¬ house, 12 meters from the workshop building. One of them flapped rather clumsily from a collapsed portion of the roof to the top of one of the standing chimneys, No adults seen. September 23 — As we arrived, two adult Black Vultures which had been perched in a large dead tree 40 meters east of the farmhouse took wing and flew off. We found the two young vultures (tuft of tan down still visible on top of head at base of beak) perched on top of the farmhouse. They watched us carefully but made no attempt to fly off. September 30 — Found both young vultures and one adult bird perched in same dead tree as above. Adult flew off immediately, one of the young birds also flew off after 30 seconds. Second young bird remained in the tree for 1-2 minutes and then flew-off. In summary, this account fully documents one of the few cases of the utilization of an abandoned building by Black Vultures for nesting. While not uncommonly found nesting along cliffs and in hollow dead trees in the state, nesting in abandoned buildings is apparently rarely practiced by Black Vultures. However, the Turkey Vulture has been reported nesting in abandoned buildings on many occasions. — WILLIAM and JUANELLE PEARSON, Biology Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, Ky. 40292. OBSERVATIONS OF NESTING BARN OWLS (Tyto alba) On 10 March 1985, grackles and bluejays were making quite a fuss over something in a tall hemlock tree which stands within four feet of my home in Stanley, Kentucky. I soon found the cause of their concern. An adult Barn Owl was perched 20 feet up the tree. It stayed there all day but did not return the next. On 7 April 1985, grackles and bluejays again alerted me to the presence of a Barn Owl. On Sunday, 30 June at 7:00 a.m., I noticed a young Barn Owl perched in the top of a shrub at eye level just six feet from my drive. At one point, the young owl became a little excited and flew to the ground. After many pictures were taken (see front cover), I put the owl back on the shrub. As soon as darkness came, the owl flew up into a maple tree in my neighbor’s yard. I judged the young owl to be about eight weeks old at that time. 52 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 On 1 July 1985, I found two young Barn Owls in the maple tree in my neighbor’s yard. One owl was in the nest cavity, the other was perched on a limb about eight feet above the nest cavity. On 4 July 1985, I went upstairs in my neighbor’s home. By looking out an upstairs window, I got a much better view of the nest cavity and there were two adults and one immature owl looking at me. The other immature owl was perched on a limb nearby. This maple tree was about 20 feet from the window and the nest cavity was about 18 feet above ground and faced the house. I believe that Barn Owls have been nesting in this tree for several years. In 1981, 1 observed an adult Barn Owl in the hemlock and a large haekberry tree in my lawn on at least a dozen occasions. However, I never saw its mate or young. After a severe windstorm in April 1983, my neighbor had this maple tree trimmed. The tree trimmers reported that two large owls flew out as they were trimming but they could not identify them. Pellets can be found under most trees in my and my neighbor’s yard, as well as, on the roof of my house. There is a feed mill about 100 yards down the street which I believe is the source of most of their food (mice). I have, however, found the heads of several female Red-winged Blackbirds and the heads of two very small rabbits. — THOMAS E. STEVENSON, P.O. Box 7, Stanley, Ky. 42375. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. FALL MEETING The 1985 fall meeting will be held at Pine Mountain State Resort Park on September 20, 21 and 22. Please plan to attend. Fred has planned a good hawk migration for the Pinnacle, Cumberland Gap National Histori¬ cal Park. Also, Barry Howard will speak on the “Natural History of Pine Mountain.” Anyone who would like to make a presentation at the Friday evening meeting should contact Fred M. Busroe, Program Chairman, UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, Ky. 40351. Phone (606) 783-2951. MOVING? Please inform the K.O.S. of address changes promptly. Journals re¬ turned to the K.O.S. with no address change made by members prior to publication will be remailed only after payment of return and remail costs. CORRECTION Due to the editor’s oversight, the sighting of an Osprey at Mammoth Cave National Park during the Spring Meeting was omitted from the of¬ ficial count list. « he Kentucky Warbler H (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) '85 - VOL. 61 NOVEMBER, 1985 NO. 4 ITHACA, N.Y. 1485:* IN THIS ISSUE THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1985, Anne L. Stamm 55 THE K.O.S. FALL MEETING, Lee K. McNeely 60 REPORT OF THE TREASURER, Harriet Korfhage 63 BOOK REVIEW, Herbert E. Shadowen 65 FIELD NOTES . 66 NEWS AND VIEWS . 68 54 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Vice-President Fred Busroe, Morehead Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Miss Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Recording Secretary Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors : Wayne Mason, Bowling Green 1983-1985 Jim Durell, Lexington 1983-1985 Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro 1984-1986 Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1984-1986 Retiring President Pierre Allaire, Jackson Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $6.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; 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 B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER Our thanks go to our gifted staff artist, Ray Harm, for this painting of the Pintail Duck. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 55 THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1985 Anne L. Stamm June was cool and wet throughout much of the state, with a severe windstorm in the Louisville area on June 9. Trees were uprooted causing damage to nesting birds. However, in July precipitation averaged below normal. The spring migration continued through the early part of June for some shorebirds and a Black Duck lingered at the Falls of the Ohio until June 14. The reports contained an increasing amount of data on the actual breeding activities of the birds of the state. Four nests of Yellow-crowned Night Herons were near Shepherdsville and reported by Clay. Busroe, in his intensive survey of the Clark Fish Hatchery, found a nest of Common Moorhens; Palmer-Ball, Jr. discovered a nest of Little Blue Herons on Shippingport Island, the second record for the state; and Mason established the breeding record of Tree Swallows in Warren County. The Stamms investigated a new colony of Bank Swallows in Carroll County and McNeely discovered a Cliff Swallow colony in western Boone County. Noonan watched a Least Flycatcher carry food repeatedly to an area on Big Black Mountain, a behavior characteristic of feeding young. Heretofore, no definite breeding record for the latter species was known. Also, Shadowen continued his study of the House Wren at Bowling Green, with interesting results. Below are listed additional comments on the breeding season during June and July. Pelicans through Herons — Single White Pelicans appeared at the Falls of the Ohio on June 20 (BPB, DN), July 27 (LR) and July 30 (R. Cisserol- lo, J. Molloy fide BPB. The three Least Bitterns at Clark Fish Hatchery on June 10 was noteworthy, one to two birds were seen there until mid-July (FB) and may have nested there; two still present on July 21 (BA). The Great Blue Heron was reported as “more numerous in Ballard County than usual for summer” (CP). The nesting population had increased substan¬ tially. The aerial survey at the Axe Lake Colony in Ballard County revealed 242 nests. This was an increase of 18% over last year according to TVA biologist B. P. Pullin’s report. Also mentioned in the report were the four colonies in Carlisle, Marshall, Union and Webster-Crittenden Counties with a total of 746 active nests. Additional reports on Great Blue Herons in¬ cluded 13 birds at Smithland Dam, July 5 (LR) ; post-breeding birds evident at several locations in Boone County (LMc) ; two at the Falls of the Ohio from June 28 through July (BPB) and observed throughout the period in Fayette County (BA). A nest of Little Blue Herons with five young was found on Shippingport Island in early July, the second known breeding record in the state (BPB); 12 immatures in Carlisle County on July 30 and an adult bird about 14 mile from the immatures (CP). Four nests with half-grown Cattle Egrets were found on Shippingport Island during July; 11 immatures and 11 adults in the colony on July 12 (BPB) ; 25 + adults and 50+ immatures were present in Carlisle County on July 30 (CP). Little mention was made of Green-backed Herons, except that three fledged at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC), small numbers reported in Kenton, Campbell, Boone, Fayette and Jefferson Counties, with 56 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 a count of 20 at the Clark Fish Hatchery. A survey of a Black-crowned Night Heronry on Shippingport Island revealed 275 active nests (BPB, S. Evans, M. Evans, J. Molloy), a few nests were destroyed by the June stovm ; adults and young numbered 280 on July 12 at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) ; the colony in Trigg County was also active (F. Boyd fide B. P. Pullin) ; a single bird at East Bend, Boone County on July 21 was unusual there (LMc). The following nests of Yellow-crowned Night Herons were reported: four near Shepherdsville in late May (KC), five at Lexington (M. Flynn, RM) and four at Shippingport Island, one of which was destroyed by the June 9 storm (BPB) ; an adult was observed at S. Fork Creek on June 15, but no nest was found (WM). Geese through Ducks — A flock of 32 Canada Geese flying in V-forma- tion from south Louisville towards the Ohio River on July 15 was unusual (DS), but may have been some of the summering birds (both wild and introduced) which have been found in some locations during the summer months. Wood Ducks apparently had a good year in most areas, with pairs found with broods in Boone, Owen (LMc), Warren (WM) and Jeffe"son Counties (S, FS). A Black Duck lingered at the Falls of the Ohio until June 14 (BPB). Although Mallards were in good numbers including several broods of young at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB), they seemed to be down in numbers in central Kentucky (RM). An interesting record was the sight¬ ing of a male and female Blue-winged Teal on June 21 on a BBS in north¬ east Hickman County (CP). Hawks — A Turkey Vulture nest with eggs was found near Union (LMc) ; numbers appeared to be lower than normal in most of western Kentucky (CP). Ospreys normally are rare in summer, but were found at seven widely scattered locations during June and July, all were single birds, with the exception of a pair at Barren River; also a Kentucky-hacked bird wearing a red leg band showed up at the Falls of the Ohio in mid-June and again in the latter part of July (m. ob.). An adult Bald Eagle was seen on the Cumberland River on June 17 (fide JD) and three in the West Point area on June 4 (DS). A single Sharp-shinned Hawk was seen in Taylor County, June 5 (BPB). The only nest of Red-shouldered Hawks was reported at Louisville (LR, BPB). Two immature Broad-winged Hawks were seen at Fishing Creek Area, July 24 (JE1). Reports on American Kestrels were mixed: numerous in Owensboro and Daviess County (RI), scarce in Lexington (RM) and “down in numbers where they have been traditionally stable” around Barren River Reservoir and between Bowling Green and Glasgow (WM). Grouse through Moorhen — A Ruffed Grouse in Grayson County on July 28 was an interesting find (KC). Bobwhites survived the winter in good numbers in the Owensboro area (RI). Common Moorhens were still present on the Clark Hatchery on June 7 and a nest with two eggs was discovered, but later found destroyed, two birds were still present on July 14 (FB); three birds were reported at the Frankfort Fish Hatchery in early June by Sherri Evans and in mid-June by Robert Morris. Shorebirds — Some shorebirds were still passing through in June: four peeps in Boone County on June 2 (LMc); two Semipalmated Sandpipers 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 57 at the Falls of the Ohio, June 14 and a White-rumped Sandpiper there on June 19 (BPB). Killdeer with young were found at Burlington, Petersburg (LMc) and in central Kentucky (RM) ; numbers peaked at Clark Hatchery on July 14 with 70 birds (FP) and at the Falls of the Ohio with 83 on July 24 (LR). Lesser Yellowlegs arrived at Louisville on July 9 (LR) and at the Clark Fish Hatchery on July 14 (FB), with 17 birds as the high at the former location on July 27 (BPB). Greater Yellowlegs were reported from only two locations in the Louisville area, with one to six birds from July 11-27 (LR, BPB, DN) and at Clark Fish Hatchery on July 21 (BA). Eleven Solitary Sandpipers appeared at the Mayfair Basins, Louisville on July 17 (DN) and four at the Clark Hatchery, July 14 (FB) and 21 (BA). A single Willet was an early migrant at the Falls of the Ohio on July 5 (BPB). Three downy young Spotted Sandpipers were found on the Falls of the Ohio on July 12 (BPB), maximum birds there — 12 — on July 24 (BPB). This count is in sharp contrast to the numbers summering in the mid-sixties when 25-30 were present and an estimated 10-12 nesting pairs, all showing territorial behavior patterns (Ky. Warbler, 42: 3-4, 1966). Two Sanderlings arrived at the Falls of the Ohio on July 21 (BPB) and three on July 24 (LR). Although a Semipalmated Sandpiper lingered at the latter location until June 14 (BPB), 17 had returned to the Clark Hatchery on July 14 (FB) and 10 at Mayfair Basins, July 17 (DN) ; also at BWMA on July 23 (M. Miller, CP) and the Falls of the Ohio on July 24 (LR, BPB). A few Western Sandpipers showed up at two Louisville loca¬ tions (DN, BPB et al.) . Least Sandpipers arrived at the Falls of the Ohio on July 5 (same dates as in 1983) with a maximum of 10 birds on July 24 (BPB). The species was widely distributed, but in small numbers during late July from BWMA (CP, M. Miller) to Mayfair Basins (DN) and Clark Hatchery (BPB). A White-rumped Sandpiper lingered at the Falls of the Ohio until June 14 (BPB). Only a small number of Pectoral Sandpipers had arrived by mid-July at a few locations. A Single Stilt Sandpiper was recorded at Mayfair Basins on July 17 (DN) and at the Falls of the Ohio on July 26 (BPB). Returning Short-billed Dowitchers were noted at Clark Fish Hatchery on July 14 with two birds (FB) and six there on July 21 (BA) and one at Mayfair Basins, July 27 (DN). Gulls through Terns — A Franklin’s Gull at the Falls of the Ohio on June 4-5 was of interest and observed by many (DN). A second-year Her¬ ring Gull was seen at the same location on June 18-20 and a single Caspian Tern on June 14, July 2 (BPB) and two on July 13 (LR). Five migrant Forster’s Terns appeared on the Falls of the Ohio on July 26 (BPB). A Least Tern was seen at BWMA on July 23 (CP, M. Miller) and approxi¬ mately 170 adult birds in five colonies along the Mississippi River, accord¬ ing to a survey by the Missouri Conservation Department (B. Anderson fide BPB), while last year the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Department survey showed 210 adults in three active and three suspected colonies (S. Evans). A Black Tern was observed on the Falls of the Ohio on July 2 (two days earlier than previous local records) and four there on July 26 (BPB, J. Molloy ) . Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — There were three reports of single Black-billed Cuckoos: along Middle Creek, Boone County, June 28 (LMc), Rutland, Harrison County on July 3 and in Greenup County, July 28 (BPB). 58 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vo1. 61 A nest of Great Horned Owls was noted in Boyle County (W. Kemper fide FL). A pair of Barn Owls reared two young at Stanley, Daviess County (T. Stevenson, RI). Whip-poor-wills seemed to be down in numbers in Daviess County this summer (RI). Ruby-tnroated Hummingbirds were pres¬ ent in good numbers at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC) and at various feeders near Jamestown (L. Moser fide S). Red-headed Woodpeck¬ ers were scarce in some sections of Jefferson and Oldham Counties (DN). At least one nest of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker was found in Laurel County in June (BK). Flycatchers through Swallows — Two to three Willow Flycatchers were seen and heard at the Clark Fish Hatchery from May to late July (FB) and may have nested there: six nests with eggs or young were found on Shippingport Island, but two nests were destroyed by the June 9 storm (BPB, J. Molloy et al.) ; one bird at Petersburg, from May through June (LMc). A record worthy of note was that of a Least Flycatcher observed carrying food to a certain shrub on Big Black Mountain on May 27 (DN). Three Eastern Phoebe nests, with eggs or young, were found in northern Kentucky: one in Boone County and two in Owen County (LMc). One of the latter was parasitized by Brown-headed Cowbirds. Fewer Purple Mar¬ tins nested in the Seneca Park nest boxes than in 1984, but in Shelby County numbers were normal (S). The only concentration was an estimated 8500 birds near Shippingport Island on July 19 where later they joined a flock at the Colgate Palmolive plant, Jeffersonville, Indiana where an estimated 17,000 birds settled down for the night (BPB). Eight pairs of Tree Swallows were discovered at Dewey Lake on June 16 and documented as a breeding species for Warren County (WM). Only a few Rough-winged Swallows were found on the Henry County BBS, where a few years ago many nested (S, FS) ; also found breeding in Jefferson and Kenton Coun¬ ties (JR, EG, respectively). Bank Swallows had a successful year: two small colonies in Boone County (LMc) ; hundreds in a colony in Livingston County and also in Trimble County (BPB, R. Cassell) ; and two colonies in Carroll County: one of the latter was in a new gravel pit and had 67 active nesting burrows and at least 150 adult birds, many feeding fully feathered young about ready to leave the nest. The other colony, in an old gravel pit, had at least 76 nesting burrows on the one side of the pit, but only some 25+ birds on July 30. It is likely that the majority of the birds had fledged by the time we were notified by Jim Durell of the Kentucky Fish and Wild¬ life Department (S, FS). It is also probable that a colony existed in the old gravel pit in previous years but heretofore no colony was known in Carroll County. The colony of Cliff Swallows at the Barren River Reservoir was up from 1984 and at least 476 active nests were found by mid-June (WM). A new, small colony of 20 nests was discovered on June 2 in western Boone County, near a bridge over Gun Powder Creek (LMc) ; also five birds in extreme north-central Christian County on June 18 may indicate a new breeding season record for that county (AS). Wrens through Shrikes — A number of Carolina Wren nests, with eggs or young fledged, were reported from Burlington (LMc) and Louisville (KC, S) ; numbers not up to par from pre-1978 figures in Daviess County (RI). Encouraging were the reports of Bewick’s Wrens from five widely scattered locations: singles in Harrison, Shelby, Todd-Christian line, Trigg 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 59 and Woodford Counties (BPB, S, J. Erwin and CP, M. Sutton fide RM, respectively). House Wrens continued to use the Eastern Bluebird boxes which were erected in Warren County with much success (HS, WM). A group of four to five Sedge Wrens was found in an old hayfield along the Ohio River bottom, two miles west of Carrsville, Livingston County on July 13 (BPB, R. Cassell). This sighting is farther west than previous breeding season records. In the western edge of Daviess County the Eastern Bluebird was in lower numbers than in 1984, while good numbers were present in the eastern section of the County (M. Brown fide RI). Cedar Waxwings re¬ mained in good numbers throughout the summer in northern Kentucky (LMc) ; nests or young fledglings observed in Jefferson, Trimble (BPB) and Woodford Counties (S. Hundley fide S) and birds recorded during the period in Spencer and Taylor Counties (BPB). The Loggerhead Shrike was re¬ ported as holding its own in western Kentucky (CP). Vireos through Warblers — A nest of Bell’s Vireos was being built on the West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area on May 25 (BBC). A Parula Warbler was found singing at Lock Mary, Hopkins County, June 1 (JH). The only Pine Warblers reported were two birds: one in the vicinity of Lake Beshear, Caldwell County, June 19 (CP) and one heard the entire month of June at Maple Spring, Mammoth Cave National Park (WM), but no nest found. A Louisiana Waterthrush nest with five eggs and later five young was found at Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve in early May and a Ken¬ tucky Warbler nest with four young also there on June 28 (LMc). Com¬ ments on the Yellow-breasted Chat were mixed: scarce in Owensboro, only one pair was found where normally five or six are present (RI) ; more common than in past years, nesting observed at three locations in Oldham and Jefferson Counties (DN). Tanagers through Finches — A Scarlet Tanager was singing for some time during the period in the Owensboro area, but no nest was found (RI) ; one present at Lock Mary on June 1 and one at Pond River, July 8, both in Hopkins County, where it is a rare summer resident) JH). Blue Grosbeaks continued to increase in numbers and to extend their range north and east¬ ward in the state. Two pairs of Bachman’s Sparrows were found in a field near Hamlin during the period (CP). This was a good year for Dickcissels, particularly in western Kentucky (CP), numbers were on territory in mid- May in southern Fulton County (S, FS) ; observed nesting at Masterson Station Park in Lexington (M. Flynn, RM). A noteworthy record was that of a Lark Sparrow in southern Pendleton County on July 3 (BPB, B. An¬ derson). Savannah Sparrows were reported from Masterson Station Park during the period (RM). A number of interesting records of Grasshopper Sparrows were reported: singing birds at two Boone County locations, June 1 and one near Union in the same County on July 27 (LMc) ; birds noted in Harrison and Pendleton Counties, July 3 (BPB, B. Anderson), six singing birds at three locations on June 9 in Henry County (S, FS) and some at Lexington, Fayette County during the period ( RM ) . There were more re¬ ports of Henslow’s Sparrows than in recent years: one at two locations in Boone County (LMc); five or more pairs at Lexington, Fayette County and more at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Preserve (RM and BA) ; three pairs north of Princeton (R. Rowland fide CP) ; and two to three birds during June and July at the Clark Hatchery (FB). Several Song Sparrows eo THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 were heard and seen in Hopkins County where it now appears “to be a regular breeding bird, although only in some areas of the county” (JH) ; down drastically on the Shelby County BBS on June 9 as compared with the June 3, 1984 census (S, FS). Bobolinks were in good numbers at Mas- terson Station Park, where many adult birds were seen carrying food to young (RM). House Finches continued to spread and several nests were reported: two successful broods in Jefferson County (WJ) and a pair raised two young in northern Rowan County (FB). American Goldfinches are traditionally late nesters, but an adult was seen feeding young out of the nest on the early date of July 8 in the Valley Station area (DS). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Fred Busroe (FB), Kathryn Clay James Durrell (JD), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Michael Flynn (MF), Ed" Grone- man (EG), James W. Hancock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Wilbur Jackson (WJ), Brian Knowles (BK), F. Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Wayne Mason (WM), Robert Morris (RM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Herbert E. Shadowen (HS), Judy Robertson (JR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Allen Stickley (AS), Donald Summerfield (DS). Other abbreviations — Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), Beckham Bird Club (BBC), Ballard Wildlife Management Area (BWMA), many observers (m.ob. ). Information on the Fall Migration (August, September October and November) should reach the writer no later than December 7. — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Fall Meeting — September 20-22, 1985 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 1985 Fall Meeting at Pine Mountain State Park on September 20-22. President Blaine Ferrell welcomed members and guests to the Friday evening session, held at 7:30 P.M. in the Ray Harm Room of the Evans Lodge. Fred Busroe introduced the evening speakers, Dr. Herb Shadowen and Brad Andres. Dr. Shadowen discussed the use of nest boxes by House Wrens in the Bowling Green area. Brad Andres presented an interesting program on hawk migration along the Cumberland Ridge, along with tips on identifying raptors in flight. Field trips and leaders for Saturday were announced. A social hour and refreshments followed the evening program. Early morning fog and mild temperatures greeted birders on Saturday morning field trips. Blaine Ferrell led a 5:30 A.M. trip around the lodge area, and a second trip at 8:00 A.M. in the Park. Barry Howard led his group to various areas within the Park and the Clear Creek Baptist School. Fred Busroe led the final group to the golf course and vicinity. An after¬ noon field trip was taken to the Pinnacle at Cumberland Gap National 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Cl Historical Park to observe raptor migration. A total of 78 species were recorded for the day. The Board of Directors met at the Pinnacle of Cumberland Gap at 4:30 P.M. The evening meeting began at 7:00 P.M. with dinner in the Ray Harm Room of Evans Lodge. Barry Howard, former park naturalist, was the evening speaker, and gave a fascinating presentation on the natural history of Pine Mountain. A brief business meeting followed the evening program. A motion to change the dues structure by raising the annual dues for Contributing Members from $6.00 to $10.00, and to add a new Corporate Membership category with no fixed amount of dues, was presented and passed by those present. Dr. Herb Shadowen, representing the Nominating Committee, presented the following slate of officers for the coming year: President ■ — Fred Busroe, Vice-President — James Williams, and Councilors — Dennis Sandlin and Thomas Stevenson. Other officers would continue with their current terms of office. The slate was approved as presented. Future meeting dates and localities were noted as follows: April 25-27, 1986 at Rough River Dam State Park, October 3-5, 1986 at either Kenlake State Park or Kentucky Dam Village State Park, and Spring 1987 at Lake Cumberland State Park. It was agreed to reinstate KOS membership awards, with responsi¬ bility falling to the Nominating Committee for selection of possible reci¬ pients. Blaine Ferrell led the members in compiling the day’s bird list. Addi¬ tional birds seen on Sunday brought the weekend total to 80 species. Respectfully submitted, Lee K. McNeely Recording Secretary ATTENDANCE AT THE K.O.S. 1985 FALL MEETING BOMBAY, INDIA: Sundeep Waslekar BOWLING GREEN: Mr. and Mrs. Blaine Ferrell, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gutherie, Tony Gutherie, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Mason, Ruth and William Mathes and Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Shadowen BURLINGTON : Becky, David and Mr. and Mrs. Lee McNeely and Tom Stephens CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver CUMBERLAND: Barry Howard 62 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 ELIZABETHTOWN: Joan Noel FRANKFORT: Jim Durell HAZARD: Dennis Sandlin and Donnie Spencer HODGENVILLE: Susan Cruse JEFFERSONVILLE, IN: Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Jenkins LEITCHFIELD: Mr. and Mrs. Montelle Wilson LEXINGTON: Brad Andres, Sara McClellan and Jim Williams LOUISVILLE: Mr. and Mrs. Roland Blahnik, Richard Cassell, Kathryn Clay, Diane Ebel, Harriet Korfhage, Kay Mudd, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Esther Pardue, Anne and Fred W. Stamm and Don Summerfield MACEO: Mike Brown, Bert and Millie Powell MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe OWENSBORO: Mary Lydia Greenwell, John Humphrey, Ray R. and L. C. lies, Roseann Radzelovage and Mr. and Mrs. Ed Wilson STANLEY : Tom and Anna Stevenson UTICA: Tony and Brenla Eaden VERSAILLES: Blanche Schorr BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE FALL MEETING, 1985 Birds observed on Saturday field trips include: Great Blue Heron, Green-backed Heron, Wood Duck, Mallard, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Ruffed Grouse, Killdeer, Soli¬ tary Sandpiper, Black Tern, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Eastern Screech Owl, Barred Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpeck¬ er, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Common Raven, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Swainson’s Thrush, Hermit Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Cedar Waxwing, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Tennessee Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black- throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Palm Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, American Redstart, Common Yellowthroat, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, American Goldfinch and House Sparrow for a total of 78 species. A Black-throated Blue Warbler and Ovenbird were seen on Sunday. This brought the weekend total to 80 species. 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 63 REPORT OF THE TREASURER Fiscal Year 1984-1985 GENERAL FUND Bank Balance, September 25, 1984, First National Bank Receipts Membership Dues $2,231.00 Interest Income: Endowment Fund 454.51 Gordon Wilson Fund 115.71 Fall Meeting . 216.50 Spring Meeting . 117.00 Sale of Warblers, check lists, etc. 152.85 Disbursements Printing : Kentucky Warbler $1,709.06 Envelopes . 106.75 Treasurer’s Expenses (labels, envelopes, etc.) 42.95 Postage 275.14 Meeting Expenses . 331.39 Safety Deposit Box 20.00 Nature Conserveney Dues 20.00 Miscellaneous Expense . 9.67 Bank Service Charge 6.24 Transfer Life Memberships (3) to Endowment Fund 225.00 Transfer Interest to Gordon Wilson Fund 115.71 Cash Balance, First National Bank, September 16, 1985 . ENDOWMENT FUND Balance in Savings Account - Future Federal, September 25, 1984 . Certificate of Deposit (4) Receipts Interest Income: Certificate of Deposit $ 454.51 Savings Account . 24.91 Life Memberships (3) 225.00 $1,337.40 3,287.57 $4,624.97 2,861.91 $1,763.06 $ 579.16 4,500.00 704.42 $5,783.58 64 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Disbursements Transfer to General Fund Balance in Fund, September 16, 1985 Certificate of Deposit (4) $4,500.00 Balance in Saving's Account 829.07 Total $5,329.07 GORDON WILSON FUND Balance in Savings Account, September 25, 1984 Certificates of Deposit (2) Great Financial Federal Receipts Interest on Certificate of Deposit Interest on Savings Account 115.71 56.49 Certificate of Deposit 2,000.00 Balance in Savings Account 1,191.81 $3,191.81 BALANCE SHEET September 16, 1985 Assets: Cash — General Fund Endowment Fund Gordon Wilson Fund $ 1,763.06 5,329.07 3,191.81 Liabilities Accounts Payable NET WORTH Total $10,283.94 $ 76.00 10,207.94 $10,283.94 $ 454.51 $5,329.07 $1,019.61 2,000.00 3,019.61 172.20 $3,191.81 Harriet Korfhage Treasurer 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 65 REPORT OF THE AUDITOR The treasurer’s records, bank statements, certificates of deposit and other financial records of the Society were examined for the period of September 25, 1984 through September 16, 1985. The examination confirmed that receipts and disbursements have been accounted for and bank balances are in agreement with the treasurer’s statements. Frederick W. Stamm BOOK REVIEW GUIDE TO OWL WATCHING IN NORTH AMERICA , by Donald S. Heintzelman. Winchester Press, An Impact of New Century Publishers, Inc., 220 Old New Brunswick Road, Piscataway, N.J. 08854, 1984; pp. xiii -f 193. $8.95. The release letter accompanying this publication included the following statement; “Here is an inexpensive, compact, truly comprehensive, il¬ lustrated manual covering all aspects of owl watching.” The cover con¬ struction is paperback, and the illustrations are not in color, so it should be inexpensive. When considering today’s publication costs, $8.95 is a very reasonable cost. It is 193 pages in length, including the index; thus, it is compact. Its topics include species accounts, types and methods of owl watching, owl watching equipment, owl pellets and food habits, owl mi¬ grations and invasions, survival adaptations, owl conservation, field marks, and owl watching sites in the United States and Canada. Each species account includes common and scientific names, dimensions, field recognition, flight style, voice, nest, eggs, food, habitat, and North American distribu¬ tion. Thus, much information concerning each North American owl species is presented in a concise manner. Other inclusions that may be helpful to those interested in owls include owl silhouettes, owl nest box dimensions, an owl pellet guide, and suggested reading. Some might question the value of utilizing 74 pages (38 percent of the book) in listing and briefly describing owl watching sites. This pro¬ cedure was used in Kentucky Birds, A Findmg Guide, by Barbour, et al. A few years following publication some of the listed areas had undergone radical change and were no longer the desirable birding areas they were at the time of writing. Heintzelman briefly mentions two Kentucky areas, the Kleber Wildlife Area near Frankfort and Mammoth Cave National Park. These two areas will probably remain in their present natural state for many years because they are publicly owned. Disappointing aspects of the guide include the absence of color, the absence of range maps, and the absence of descriptions comparing similar species. Identification of species having color phases or plumage variations are much easier when color plates are used, but this would have increased the publication price considerably. Anyone attracted to owl watching will probably already possess a general field guide containing the features mentioned above. 66 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Those expecting a field identification guide equal to those of Peterson or Robbins, et al. will be disappointed in Guide to Owl Watching in North America, but those who desire more information concerning owls than the brief species coverage in field guides will find this publication a desirable addition to their libraries. It is particularly recommended to those who desire to expand their knowledge of owls and who would travel extensively to observe owls in the field. — H. E. SHADOWEN, Biology Department, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green 42101. FIELD NOTES SAW-WHET OWL IN JEFFERSON COUNTY While participating on the Louisville area Christmas Bird Count on December 18, 1983, John Callahan and I were fortunate enough to blunder upon a Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus). We were covering an overgrown pasture on Surrey Hills Farm in the northeast portion of Jefferson County and were heading up a gradual hill¬ side dotted with Red Cedars (Juniperus virginiana), honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), and assorted small saplings, when a couple of small White Pine (Pinus strobus) seedlings attracted our attention. Because I was so sur¬ prised to see these trees coming up in the pasture, I walked over to one for closer inspection. As I stepped up to the pine, my right arm brushed a nearby cedar and caused a small commotion in the branches. The rustling noise attracted my attention, and I turned to look into the tree only to see a very distraught and quite startled Saw-whet Owl staring at me not a foot or two away. The owl was in the process of making a hasty retreat from the tree, from which it immediately flew. Astonished by what I had just seen, I turned to John who had also seen the little owl before its exit out the back side of the tree. Because of the number of cedars, the owl’s destination was unknown, but feeling con¬ fident that the bird was very close by, we set out in search of it. Nearly an hour passed before we found the bird again, and then only because it be¬ came nervous and flushed again from another cedar. This time the bird landed in clear view in a small deciduous sapling, and both of us studied the bird through binoculars at about thirty feet for several minutes. The bird soon ducked into a thick tangle of honeysuckle where we left it for fear of disturbing it too much. The small size and “earless” head were immediately obvious to us. Otherwise, the bird had bright yellow eyes, a dark, blackish bill, whitish eyebrows that converged over the bill, light underparts heavily streaked with broad chestnut stripes, and medium brown wings, back and tail. The scapulars had large white spots. , The spot from which the owl was first flushed had no accumulation of droppings or pellets, indicating that the bird had either not been in the vicinity long, or that it did not use that roost regularly. Subsequent searches for the bird have been unsuccessful, but I feel sure that I flushed the bird from another cedar about a week after the initial sighting. Al- 1985 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 67 though I did not see it well, a similarly-sized bird flushed from the tree before I could get a good look. This appears to be the third Louisville sighting of a Saw-whet Owl. Monroe, Jr. (KW 52: 52) gives one record for fall and early winter 1955 and Stamm (KW 58: 51) gives another for a bird struck by a moving car on March 31, 1982. There seem to be less than a dozen records for the state. — Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., 8207 Old Westport Rd., Louisville 40222. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE AT THE LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES On March 11, 1985, Mr. John D. Humphrey and myself found a White- fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) on a grassy shore at the Land Between the Lakes. It was feeding with a flock of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) on Honker Lake. The bird was at the rear of the flock and then would mingle for a short time before assuming his solitary position. Mr. Hum¬ phrey and I had an excellent view of this specimen and examined him at length through binoculars (10X50 to 40 power zoom and 7X35). The white face was examined closely and the bright orange feet and legs and striped belly were also noted. We compared the description with that in Peterson’s Field Guide and the Golden Guide. Due to the closeness (about 200 feet) and careful study, we feel absolutely sure of the identification. There is no doubt that this species is a regular transient through this area but due to the few records we felt that this sighting was significant. In reference to the status of this species, the reader is directed to “The Birds of Kentucky” by Dr. Robert M. Mengel, page 175 and “Kentucky Birds” by Barbour, Peterson, Rust, Shadowen and Whitt, page 10. This sighting reaffirms my opinion that many species that are seldom seen may prove to be more common as more observers take to the field — A. L. (BERT) POWELL, Owensboro Area Museum, 2829 S. Griffith Avenue, Owensboro 42301. RECORD BREEDING AGE FOR FEMALE STARLINGS Several accounts of age and survival rates of Starlings have been published (Klimkiewicz et al. J. Field Ornithol. 54(3) : 287-294, 1983; Stew¬ art, N.A. Bird Bander 3(3): 93-94, 1978; Burt and Giltz, EBBA News 36(4): 224-226, 1973 and Frankhauser, Bird Banding 42(1): 36-42, 1971). However, there have been no records of older females that were definitely breeding. Kessel (Am. Midi. Nat. 58:257-331, 1957) reported a female that had nested four years in the same area, but no reference was made to the age of the bird. On 10 December 1977 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) placed band number 772-57113 on an unknown-aged female Starling (Sturn- us vulgaris), taken from a decoy trap at the Western Kentucky University Farm, Bowling Green, Kentucky. The bird was retrapped in a nest-box trap at the same location on 7 May 1985 while incubating five eggs. The calculated age of at least seven years, eleven months apparently establishes the maximum breeding age for female Starlings to date. Based on analyses of bird-banding records (1933-1981), this also sets a longevity record in 68 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 61 Kentucky for a female Starling captured and recovered in the same 10- minute block. Only one other female this old has been reported in the state (Bird Banding Laboratory Records). Fiom 1933 to 1S81, 4 (1.1%) of the 373 Starlings recaptured in Ken tucky have fallen within an age of 7+ years or older; the oldest bird being 8.3 years of age (Bird Banding Laboratory Records). Nationwide 1.2% of the Starling recaptures from 1924 to 1978 occurred in this age group or older (derived from Bird Banding Laboratory record analyses by Richard Dolbeer, USFWS) with the oldest bird recorded at 15.3 years (Klimkiewicz ct al. J. Field Ornithol. 54(3): 287-294, 1983). — SHIRLEY K. TIM- BROOK, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Denver Wildlife Research Cente”, Kentucky Research Station, 334 15th Street, Bowling Green 42101. NEWS AND VIEWS 1985 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT Forms for the Mid-winter Bird Count have been mailed. If you have not received them or you wish to participate as a compiler, please contact the editor. All birds recorded must be within a 15-mile diameter circle be¬ tween December 18 and January 5. Reports of extraordinary sightings must be accompanied by verification forms which will be provided to each com¬ piler. MOVING? If you are moving or changing address, please notify the Correspond¬ ing Secretary-Treasurer in order that the mailing of the Kentucky Warbler may be carried out expeditioully. Thank you. IJhe Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) IN THIS ISSUE THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1985, Anne L. Stamm 3 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT, 1985-1986 9 AlBfcRf R. MANfv FIELD NOTES LIBRARY 20 BOOK review MARI 9 1986 ITHACA, N.Y, M853 NEWS AND VIEWS 23 2 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Fred Busroe, Morehead Vice-President Jim William, Lexington Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Recording Secretary Councillors : Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Retiring President Librarian Lee McNeely, Burlington 1984-1986 1984- 1986 1985- 1987 1985-1987 Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER We thank Bert Powell for our cover photograph of some of our dedi¬ cated birders at the K.O.S. fall meeting held at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. 1983 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1985 Anne L. Stamm The weather in the fall of 1985 was similar throughout the state : rainfall was above normal for the months of August, October and No¬ vember. Temperatures averaged slightly below normal for August and September. On August 2 the temperature hit a low of 57 degrees at Lexing¬ ton, 60 degrees at Louisville and 59 the following day at both locations. October had 18 days with the temperature above normal. November also had a few unusually warm days such as a high of 78 degrees on November 19 at Paducah where it tied a record and it was 77 degrees at Louisville. In sharp contrast November was also the dreariest month on record. The August cold fronts triggered an early start to the fall passerine migration, although the season was best characterized by a number of species lingering beyond normal departure dates. Many migrants took ad¬ vantage of the mild fall and remained well into late October and November. The winter finch flight was poor except for Evening Grosbeaks. The few rarities included a Plegadis Ibis, Laughing Gulls, Black-legged Kittiwake and Red Crossbill. Loons through Cormorants — Common Loons were present in about normal numbers with a peak of 35 at Six-mile Island in mid-November (BPB), 23 at Lexington Reservoir (hereafter L. R.), November 20 (BA) and 11 at Lake Pewee, November 19 (JH). Pied-billed Grebes were widely distributed with a concentration of 73 at Lake Pewee (JH) and 41 at L. R. (BA). Horned Grebes were in low numbers and reported from five locations; highest count was 23 birds at Louisville on November 22 (LR). Double- crested Cormorants were above normal in numbers with a high count of 55 birds at Six-mile Island on November 25 (BPB). They were reported from Smithland Dam, Ghent, Lake #9, Lexington, Falls of the Ohio (hereafter Falls), and at Dix Dam ranging in dates from August 13 through No¬ vember (m.ob.). Herons through Ibises — Great Blue Herons were more numerous than in the fall of 1984; highest counts included 36 at Jonathan Creek, September 23 (MM, CP); 75 at Lake #9 on October 20 (BPB); 23 at Silo Overlook on October 22 (S, DS, FS) ; and 28 at L. R. on November 20 (BA). One to four Great Egrets were present at the Falls from August 25-October 15 (BS, BPB) ; one to nine at Jonathan Creek (MM, CP) September 5-9; 13 at Lake #9 on October 21 (S, DS, FS) ; 10 at Silo Overlook on October 20 (BPB), seven there on October 21 (DS, S, FS) ; singles at Dover, Mason County, October 13 and at Clark Fish Hatchery (hereafter C. F. H.) from October 4-25 (FB). A single Snowy Egret was present at the Falls on August 2-9 (LR, BPB) and on September 9 (LR) ; three at Lake #9 on August 11 and 19 on September 1 (BPB, R. Cicerello). Little Blue Herons were widespread: four to nine immatures were observed in the vicinity of the Falls from August 9-30 (LR, BS, BPB) and last noted there on Sep¬ tember 23 (BPB), 18 at Ballard Waterfowl Management Area (hereafter BWMA) on August 11, two at Lentz Pond mid-August (BPB); singles at C. F. H. August 23 (FB) and at L. R. September 20 to October 1 (BA) ; an 4 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 adult at Lake #9 on October 21 established a late date (S, DS, FS). Single Cattle Egrets were reported in Jefferson County on November 14 (AS) and Livingston County, November 16 ( fide CP). Numbers of Green-backed Herons were low except at C. F. H. where 64 were present on August 24 and one lingered until October 21 (FB). Black-c -owned Night Herons left the Falls on October 21 (BPB) and at L. R. cn October 22 (BA); four immatures were still present at Lake Barkley at Silo Overlook on the latter date (S, FS). Yellow-crowned Night Herons left earlier than usual at Lexington and Louisville. A Plejadis Ibis at C. F. H. on October 25 rep¬ resented the first record for this part of the state (FB). Waterfowl — The only Tundra Swans reported were 19 birds in flight along the Ohio River near Burlington, Boone County on November 23 (LMc). Three Snow Geese had arrived at BWMA on September 19, 21 on October 20, but 3,500 by Novembe • 22 (CW). Canada Geese were first noticed on September 8 when a flock of eight flew overhead in Shelby County (DN); five had reached BWMA on September 19, numbers in¬ creased to 3,000 by October 17, 8,500 by November 22, but 17,500 on De¬ cember 3 (CW); smaller flocks of 13 to 45 birds were also seen at Ken¬ tucky Dam (S, et al.) , Lexington (BA) and South Louisville (WJ). Ducks were slow in arriving from the north and few large rafts were seen with the exception of those at BWMA and only 5,000 were there by November 22 (CW). Wood Ducks were in low numbers with the exception of the 225 at Honker Lake, September 1 (BPB, R. Cicerello). Other dabbling ducks were in modest numbers: Green-winged Teal, 40 at Mayfair Basins (BPB), American Black Duck, 100 at Cave Hill Cemetery Lake (S, FS), 60 at the Falls (BPB), Mallards, 125 at Cave Hill Cemetery Lake (S, FS), 190 at the Falls (BPB) and 70 Blue-winged Teal at Jonathan Creek (MM). A single Gadwall was present with Mallards on the Mayfair Bas;ns on August 30 (BPB); small numbers were also observed at the Falls (BS, BPB), L. R. (BA), Lake Pewee (JH) and Jonathan Creek embayment of Kentucky Lake (BBC). Canvasbacks and Redheads were unusually scarce. Ring-necked Ducks were down in numbers at Lake Pewee (JH). A few Greater Scaup were repo ted : three at L. R. on October 22 (BA); singles at Oldham County Park Lake, October 27 (DN), at the Falls, October 29, November 3, but 10 there November 25 (BPB). Few observers mentioned Lesser Scaup, but 50 were recorded at L. R. on October 20 (BA) and a high count of 375 at Louisville, November 3 (BPB). A single male Old- squaw was seen at Louisville on November 6 (LR, BPB) as was a White¬ winged Scoter on November 4 (BPB). Black Scoters were observed five t'mes on the Ohio River at Louisville from October 28 to November 27, with a high count of 11 on the former date (BPB, LR, et al.) . Also, a single Surf Scoter was present at L. R. on October 22 (BA). More Hooded Mergansers were reported than usual: seven near Danville on November 23 (FL), a high of 18 at L. R., November 25 (BA), a peak of 14 at Louis¬ ville on November 22 (BPB) and 300 at Honker Lake in Land Between the Lakes, November 17 (BPB, D. Ebel). Ruddy Ducks showed up at six locations, but only in small numbers, with the exception of 81 at Lake Pewee ( JH ) . Raptors — Hawk migration was poor this autumn. Turkey Vultures were migrating on November 8 when 166 were counted at Cumberland 1983 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 5 Gap (BA) ; smaller g oups of 35 and 40 were reported at Petersburg and Williamstown, Boone County on August 26 and September 22, respectively (LMc). There were many reports of one to two Ospreys between August 25 and November 23 at nine locations (m.ob.), with three of the sightings at Cumberland Gap (BA, KOS). A total of 15 Bald Eagles had reached BWMA by November 30 (CW ) ; singles were at Cumberland Gap September 21 (BF, KOS) and 22 (S, CS, DS). A Northern Goshawk over east Louis¬ ville on October 31 was well documented (DN). Fair numbers of Sharp- shinned Hawks were observed over Cumberland Gap : seven birds on Sep¬ tember 7, 12 on September 17 (BA), 10+ on September 21-22 (KOS) and 10 on November 8 (BA). Single Cooper’s Hawks were reported from Grayson, Meade, Kenton, Boone, Jefferson, Oldham, Fayette and Bell Counties (mob.). Although Red-shouldered Hawks remained scarce in some sections of the state, a total of 16 was observed at Cumberland Gap on November 8 (BA). Fewer Broad-winged Hawks were reported than last year. The high count was 64 at Cumberland Gap on September 17 (BA). Few observers mentioned the Red-tailed Hawk, but the species was seen frequently in all sections of the state. An influx was noted in mid-November in Clark County and 48 was the high count at Cumberland Gap on No¬ vember 8 (BA). The two Rough-legged Hawks (light phase) in Clark County on November 19 were the only ones reported (BA). At least two Peregrine Falcons were present at the Falls: one on August 25-27 and another October 1-17 (BPB) and again on October 25 (BPB, LR); one at Cumberland Gap, September 22 (S, CS, DS, FS). Galliformes — Two flocks of Wild Turkeys (12 in one and 20 in the other) were seen in Cumberland County in late November ( fide RS). Amercian Coot concentrations of 2150 at Lake Pewee (JI1) and 635 at Louisville (BPB) in November, were of interest. Sandhill Cranes were re¬ ported from six locations with the earliest and latest over the Glasgow area on October 16 and November 30, respectively (RS) ; largest flock was 35-40 birds over Falls of the Rough (KC). Shorebirds — The shorebird migration was not very exciting and numbers were low with the exception of Pectoral, Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers. Black-bellied and Lesser Golden Plovers were scarce: one to four of the former at Louisville from August 30 to early October (LR, BS, BPB); two to five at Jonathan Creek September 13 (MM) to October 20 (BBC); only singles of the latter species at Jonathan Creek (MM) and C. F. H. (BA). A single Piping Plover was present at the Falls from August 12-16 (m.ob.). Flocks of 100 to 150 Killdeers were present at Jonathan Creek (MM) and at Louisville (BPB). The American Avocet on August 8 (BPB) and the three August 16 at the Falls were noteworthy (m.ob.). Unusual records of the Willet included 23 at the Falls on August 5 and four at Mayfair Basins, August 16 (BPB). Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs did not remain as late as usual and numbers were low for the former species and maximum numbers for the latter included 40 at Jacob¬ son Park on October 1 (BA) and 100 at Louisville, August 7 (BPB). The high count for the Spotted Sandpiper was 20 birds at both Pulaski County Park (JE1) and the Falls (BPB) during August. Sanderlings were present but in small numbers: one to three birds at Mayfair Basins (DN), the 6 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Falls (BPB), Kentucky Lake, Jonathan mud-flats (MM) and C. F. H. (BA), ranging- in dates from August 11 to September 23. Small numbers of Semipalmated Sandpipers were observed at Jonathan Creek (MM), C. F. H. (BA), a peak of 200 at the Falls and a similar number in a flock of 300 peeps at Lake #9 (BPB). A Western Sandpiper on September 12 near Danville was the first for that area (FL) ; other sightings included one to seven at the Falls (BPB, BA); three at C. F. H. and eight at Lake #9 (BPB). Fair numbers of Least Sandpipers were much above those of last year: high counts of 40-50 at Jonathan Creek on September 5 (MM) ; 50 at the Falls on August 7 (BPB) : 300 peeps, mostly Least at Lake #9 on October 20 (BPB). The only Baird’s Sandpipers reported were from the Falls on September 1 and 7 (BA, DN) and Jacobson Park on September 6 (BA). Maximum counts of Pectoral Sandpipers included 100 at the Falls on August 16-17, 50 at Lake #9 on September 1 (BPB) and 30 at Jacobson Park on October 1 (BA). Dunlin were reported from five locations with a high count of 60+ at Jacobson Park on October 20 (BA), 35 at Jonathan Creek on the same date (BPB) and 12 at Silo Overlook on October 22 (S, FS, DS). A single Stilt Sandpiper was first reported at the Falls on August 4 (DN) with a high of 10 in mid-August (BPB); two to six at Jonathan Creek on August 31-September 23 (MM), Jacobson Park from August 31-October 20 (BA); and a high of 38 at Lake #9 on September 1 with eight there October 20 (BPB). The Buff-breasted Sandpiper flight was poor with only one to four birds at the Falls between August 18 and September 7 (BPB, DN) ; no others reported. One to six Short-billed Dow- itchers were at the Falls intermittently between August 5 to September 9 (BPB, BA); two at Mayfair Basins on August 11 (DN). The several sightings of dowitcher species at Jonathan Creek from August 31 to Sep¬ tember 23 probably were Short-billed (MM). A single Long-billed, a rare transient, was heard and seen at C. F. H. on September 22 as were the 10 birds at Lake #9 on October 20 (BPB). Two Wilson Phalaropes were noted at Mayfair Basins on August 11 (DN) and 30 (BPB); one at the Falls on September 1 (JE1, BA), and again on September 4-6 (BPB) ; two at Jonathan Creek, September 5 (MM). Gulls and Terns — Unusual records of the Laughing Gull included one at Kentucky Lake near Hamlin on August 17 (MM, J. T. Erwin), singles at the Falls on August 7 and 24 and at Barkley Dam, August 31-September 1 (BPB and the later record with R. Cicerello). A Franklin’s Gull was seen above Kentucky Dam on November 17 (BPB, D. Ebel). A single Bonaparte’s Gull appeared at Kentucky Dam on August 11 and at Barkley Dam on August 31, but only small numbers had arrived by the end of November: 35 was the high count at Louisville on November 25 (BPB). Ring-billed and Herring Gulls were present at various locations by late November, but numbers were not high, although 65 of the former species had reached Barkley Dam by August 31 (BPB), but few could be found on October 19 (S, DS, FS). A Black-legged Kittiwake was seen at the Ken¬ tucky Dam on November 17, making the third consecutive year that the species has been there (BPB, D. Ebel). Caspian Terns were found at only two locations: 12 birds near Hamlin on August 25 (MM) and three to seven at the Falls from August 14-17 (BS, BPB, LR). Common Terns were present in small numbers at Jonathan Creek (MM), Pulaski County Park (JE1) and Louisville (BPB). Forster’s Terns visited the Falls on 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 7 seven days between August 7 and September 5 with a peak of 14 on August 7 and 16 (BPB) and a single bird at Pulaski County Park on August 25 (JE1). The latter record was of interest since few sightings have been re¬ ported from this area. There were few reports of the Least Tern; one near Hamlin (MM) and two at the Falls on August 17 (BPB) ; young being fed by adults (20 birds total) on August 10-11 at Lake #9 (BPB). Flights of Black Terns have been scarce in recent years, but fair numbers were ob¬ served this autumn. The species was seen at the Falls on 11 dates be¬ tween August 6 and September 6 with peaks of 14 and 22 birds, and 25 at Towhead Island on August 16, one at Jonathan Creek, September 1 (BPB); one at Pulaski County Park on August 25 (JE1). Cuckoos through Swifts — Black-billed Cuckoos were reported from three locations: one at C. F. H. on August 18 (BA), one at the Falls on August 20 and September 25 (BPB) and one near Lake Pewee on October 14 (JH). A single Yellow-billed Cuckoo lingered at the Falls until October 17 (DN) and a pair there on October 29 (BPB). Common Nighthawk flights of 100 or more were seen August 25-31 with a maximum count of 275 at Eubank (JE1). Chimney Swifts were widely reported in October with 1,000 observed at the Falls in early October (BPB) and the latest sighting was at Bowling Green on October 20 (BF). Woodpeckers through Flycatchers — Red-headed Woodpeckers were scarce at Danville unlike the fall of 1984 (FL). Olive-sided Flycatchers were reported from the Falls on September 13 (BPB), Creason Park on September 15 (DN) and Jacobson Park September 24 (BA). Single Yellow- bellied Flycatchers were identified at Lexington Cemetery September 2 (BA) and at Shippingport Island September 6 and 25 (BPB). An unusually late Acadian Flycatcher was calling on Shippingport Island on October 15 (BPB). A Great Crested Flycatcher was still present at Lexington Ceme¬ tery on September 27 (BA). There were no concentrations of swallows except for the “hundreds of various species” at Jonathan Creek on August 23 (MM). The majority of Purple Martins left early, but one lingered at Lexington until September 23 (BA). Eleven Tree Swallows were observed near Danville on October 7 (FL), a later straggler was seen at L. R. on November 5 (BA). Also, three Barn Swallows were noted at Lake #9 on October 20 (BPB). Ravens through Shrikes — A Common Raven was seen at Cumberland Gap on September 21 and November 18 (BA). Red-breasted Nuthatches were widely distributed and fairly common ; earliest arrival date at Falls of the Rough on September 16 (KC). A House Wren at Lexington on No¬ vember 18 was rather late (BA). Interesting records were the two Sedge Wrens heard in Fulton County August 11 and six birds there on September 1 (BPB). Both kinglets were about normal. Eastern Bluebirds were “def- intely” down from 1984 at Danville (FL) ; some 50 were seen on the Abell Farm in Oldham County on the morning of October 12 (S, BBC). The major flight of Cedar Waxwings in Fayette County was during October 3-5 (BA); numbers peaked at Madisonville on October 19 with 63 birds (JH). Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from Fulton, Hickman, Fayette, Boyle and Spencer Counties. THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Virco through Warblers — A Solitary Vireo at Lexington Cemetery on November 18 established our latest date (BA). A few Philadelphia Vireos were reported from September 14 to 27 at Clark Hatchery (BA), Pine Mountain (KOS) and Falls of the Ohio (BPB). Warblers seemed to trickle through in most areas with the greatest movement in mid-October. Some species lingered longer than usual. The latest Tennessee Warbler was at Lexington on November 5 (BA). Single Orange-crowned Warblers were observed at Otter Creek Park, September 29 (S, DS) and at Shippingport Island, October 15, 22 and November 5 (BPB). An early Nashville Warbler was noted at the Falls on August 20 (BPB) while normal numbers were observed through October 21 at Burlington (LMc). Other late warblers in¬ cluded a Magnolia at Lexington Cemetery on October 20 (BA) and a Cape May at Eubank on October 24 (JE1). The only Black-throated Blue Warbler reported was one at Burlington on October 14 (LMc). Some 45 Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warblers were seen on the Abell Farm, Oldham County, October 12 (S, BBC). The mild October weather was responsible for the late warbler records such as the Prairie on Abell Farm (BBC) and Shippingport Island (BPB) on October 12 and 18, respectively, Palm in Fayette County, November 25 (BA), Bay-breasted at Burlington, No¬ vember 9, 15, and 16 (LMc). The latter species established a late state record. Four reports of single Blackpoll Warblers ranging from Sep¬ tember 13 to October 1 were received without documentations. These records may be valid, but details are lacking for specific identification. The species is very rare here in fall. Single Mourning Warblers were seen at Shippingport Island on September 25 and 27 (BPB) ; also a Connecticut Warbler reported there September 20 (full details lacking). A Wilson’s Warbler at Eubank on August 16 was an early record (JE1). Dickcissel through J uncos — A Dickcissel on the Abell Farm, Oldham County on October 12 was a rather late straggler (S, BBC). Chipping Sparrows were still present at Burlington on November 10 (LMc) and a flock of 100 at Lexington Cemetery on November 13 (BA). A Grasshopper Sparrow lingered in the Danville area until October 26 (FL). A few Lincoln Sparrows were reported from the Falls of the Rough, Shippingport Island and Mayfair Basins, but none were early or remained late (KC, BPB). White- throated Sparrow migration was noted on October 20 at Bowling Green where 50 were seen (BF). There was some decline in numbers of the White-crowned Sparrow in Madisonville (JH) and in some sections of east Louisville (S). Dark-eyed Juncos arrived later than normal and were first sighted at Lexington (BA) and Bowling Green (BF) on October 20. Blackbirds , Finches — Bobolinks were last reported on September 27 at Masterson Station Park (BA). Rusty Blackbirds were first observed near Kentucky Dam on October 19 (S, FS, DS) and at Jonathan Creek on October 21 (BBC). The Purple Finch flight was not impressive and al¬ though two birds were present at Eubank on September 20 (JE1), most observations were in November. House Finches continued to be numerous. A male Red Crossbill was noted at Lexington Cemetery on November 18 (BA). Pine Siskins were in low numbers. There were eight reports of the Evening Grosbeak with the earliest at Eubank — a flock of 31 birds on Oc¬ tober 27 ; the highest count was 75 birds a few miles north of Murray ( WB) . 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 9 Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Fred Busroe (FB), Wally Brines (WB), Katharine Clay (KC), Nancy Davidson (ND), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Blaine Ferrell (BF), Ed Groneman (EG), James W. Hancock (JH), Wilbur Jackson (WJ), Frederick W. Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Bernice Shannon (BS), A. Schrock (AS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Susie (CS), Margaret Sullivan (MS), Charles Wilkins (CW), Beckham Bird Club (BBC), Kentucky Ornithological Society (KOS). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT 1985-1986 Reports of 23 counts were received from across tne state. A total of 117 species was observed on count days, 109 of which are represented on the table. Those species represented by a single bird observed only on one count are not included on this table. These include: a Snow Goose, a Least Sandpiper, a Glaucous Gull (Land Between the Lakes), a female Northern Oriole ( Yelvington) , a Mute Swan, an American Woodcock (Otter Creek Park, a Merlin and a Vesper Sparrow (Frankfort). Only seven species were recorded on all counts and 13 species were noted only on a single count. The additional sightings of an immature Golden Eagle (Land Between the Lakes), a Harris Sparrow (Marion), two Short-eared Owls and a Long¬ eared Owl ( Sorgho ; unverified ) during the count period brought the species total to 121. Although not unusually so, this December was colder than last. The much colder weather and snow cover experienced to the north seemed to push many of the northern finch species into the Kentucky census areas. Pine Siskins, Evening Grosbeaks, Purple Finches and American Tree Sparrows were more numerous this year compared with last, as were Red-tailed Hawks. The decline in Eastern Bluebird numbers (735) to pre- 1982 levels was disappointing as was the absence of Wild Turkey sightings in Mammoth Cave National Park. The slow but steady increase in the Common Raven population noted in eastern Kentucky was encouraging. The repitition of last year’s unusual recordings of a Merlin and a female Northern Oriole was most interesting. Also of interest was the inverse re¬ lationship between House Finch and House Sparrow numbers. House Finches increased in number from 357 last year to 984 this year, whereas, House Sparrows decreased in number from 15,429 last year to 4,580 this year. This trend is consistent with the trend observed in other areas recently invaded by House Finches. Thanks are sincerely extended to all participants, particularly those who submitted verification forms on unusual sightings. Thanks are also extended for the comments regarding unusual weather conditions, habitat, and interesting sightings. 10 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Pisgah Bay Picnic Ground.) Habitat lake and stream shores 40%, deciduous and pine woods 28%, overgrown and cultivated fields 20%, residential and small business 12%. Dec. 21; 5:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 12 to 26° F; wind SW, 1-3 m.p.h. Bays and ponds were frozen with patches of open water. Sixteen observers in 6 parties. Total party- hours 51 (14.5 on foot, 36.5 by car). Total party miles 493.5 (21.5 on foot, 472 by car). Total species 90; total individuals 812,824. The small number of waterfowl (1,322) had considerable variety (17 species) which may be the pattern for future years of declining populations. The few eagles reported may be the result of the frozen bays which have shifted many of them further south. The most dramatic finds were the Glaucous Gull, the Tundra Swan and the Ruffed Grouse. The gull was found on the lake below the Silo Overlook (BPB, DN, RC, S. Wash.). The Tundra Swan was found at Jonathan Creek Bay (MM) and was studied again in detail almost in the same spot (MM, CP) the following day. The Ruffed Grouse, a true novelty and the first seen in the area for un¬ determined years, was tracked down by radio by Rick Maura, a University of Kentucky graduate student studying the Ruffed Grouse restocking pro¬ gram; it was closely observed by Maura and S. Will. Less exciting but nearly so were the Least Sandpiper and 11 Dunlin found at Jonathan Creek Bay (MM) and the Pectoral Sandpipers observed closely and care¬ fully at the end of Craven’s Creek road (CP, SL, CM). Figures for Rock Doves and Starlings are estimates of the Starling roost at Kentucky Lake Dam and the Rock Dove populations at Kentucky Lake and Barkley Dams. — George Beringer, Wally Brines, Richard Cassell, Melissa Easley, Betty Gore, Sally Leedom, Mike Miller, Carl Mowery, Jr., Carl Mowery III, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmar-Ball, Jr., Clell Peterson (compiler), Ed Ray, Steve Washburn, Stephen White, Stephanie Will. MARION (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Forest Grove.) Habitat woods, scrub, open farm and creeks. Dec. 29; 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 28 to 35°F; wind N, 0-10 m.p.h. Three ob¬ servers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 24 (18 on foot, 6 by car). Total party miles 20 (6 on foot, 14 by car). Total species 40; total individuals 2,928. Numbers of species and individuals seem to be continuing to decline. — C. L. Frazer (compiler), Jim Frazer and Marie Frazer. SORGHO (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center KY 279 and Audubon Parkway (Wilson Residence). Habitat fields, grain, meadows, small streams, dence woods, open woods, Ohio and Green Rivers. D28; 8:00 am. to 5:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 22 to 35°F; wind 5-10 m.p.h. Twelve observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 47 (30 on foot, 17 by car). Total party-miles 114 (12 on foot, 102 by car). Total species 46; total in¬ dividuals 3,397. Mike Brown, Sister Casimer Czurles, Tony Eaden, Joe Ford, John Humphrey, Mr. and Mrs. Ramon lies, Joyce Porter, Wynema Sims, Tommy Stevenson, Ed Wilson (compiler), Elinor Wilson. YELVINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center U.S. Hwy. 60 and State Hwy. 405 at Maceo KY.) Habitat Ohio River bottoms, 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 Carpenter and Kingfish Lakes, two farms with woods and fields, Pup Creek bottoms and feeders. Dec. 21; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 22 to 36°F; wind 4-8 m.p.h. There was intermittent sunshine. Thirteen observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 36 (30 on foot, 6 by car). Total party-miles 34 (12 on foot, 22 by car). Total species 54; total individuals 2,231. As in the past few years there has been a great lack of waterfowl. Also missing was the Yellow-rumped Warbler, Hermit Thrush and Eastern Phoebe which we used to find in fair numbers. Common Crackles and Eastern Meadowlarks were rare. Noteworthy is the finding of a female Northern (Baltimore) Oriole on the feeder of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Ray. The feeders at the Ray’s and Powell’s have always produced large numbers of species and individuals. — Joey Brown, Mike Brown, Tony Eaden, Tom Hicks, John Humprhey, Ray lies, Don Lacy, Bill Perkins, Bert Powell (compiler), Millie Powell, Roseann Radzelovage, Marvin Ray and Maudie Ray. HANCOCK COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Patesville.) Habitat woodland, field, creeks and pond. Dec. 30; 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 15 to 45°F; wind SE, 0-15 m.p.h. Three observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 7 (6 on foot, 1 by car). Total party miles 13 (8 on foot, 5 by car). Total species 21; total individuals 133. Roseann Radzelovage (compiler), Walter Radzelovage and David Sanders. BOWLING GREEN (center and habitat as described in 1980.) Dec. 21; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 12 to 31°F; wind S, 0-10 m.p.h. Standing water was frozen. Seven observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 18 (15 on foot, 3 by car). Total party-miles 109 (8 on foot, 101 by car). Total species 66; total individuals 4,452. Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, Wayne Mason, Bill and Ruth Mathes, Simeon Pickard, H. E. Shadowen (compiler). MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK (center and habitat as de¬ scribed in 1980.) Dec. 22; 6:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. Sky clear; tepip. 28 to 43°F; wind S, 10-15 m.p.h. Seven observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 25 (15 on foot, 10 by car). Total party -miles 93 (11 on foot, 82 by car). Total species 51 ; total individuals 2,474. Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Marquita Gillenwater, Jeff Jones, Ron Lewis, Wayne Mason, Joey McCombs and H. E. Shadowen. GLASGOW (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Barren County courthouse.) Habitat as described previously. Dec. 27; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 33 to 45°F; wind NW, 5-15 m.p.h. Six observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 43.75 (31.75 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles 123 (13 on foot, 110 by car). Total species 68; total individuals 3,126. Mrs. Marquita Gillenwater, Mrs. Howard Malcolm Jones, Wayne Mason (compiler), Mrs. Todd Moore, Dr. and Mrs. Russell Starr. HART COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center three miles northeast of Munfordville, KY. at the intersection of Gaddock auia aau AiNnoo Auyad AINHOO NVAAOU HOS '13S NIViNHOlAl 3Nld I3Sd3WOS NoioNnana aniANva NOiONIXHl B3S31X IdOd^NVdd 311 1 AA913HS aniASinoi iS3dOd IAII3HNU39 IHUVd >13330 U3110 AINHOO Id VH MOSSV1S Hd N 3AVO H_L01AJIAI VIA1 N33H9 ONIlMOa AINHOO 5HOOONVH N019NIA13A OHOdOS NOIdVIAJ S3>1V1 3Hi N33M139 QNV1 Z 3 o o o DC m <£> 00 05 OJ CO O) (D O) 'f DC LU O CD LU Q DC UJ (J CM CM CM CO 03 CO (D CO CO CO CD LU h- * DC ' 2 < (J Q s I u < z _ O cc — 1 3 o. x O m i- < O g O 05 C < 2 rj s o in n COMMON GOLDENEYE COMMON MERGANSER o co m co in co cm co o co i- co in CM h» CM o co o co t- r- in CO rt CD ■'t CM CD CM O CM CM CO CM CM T- CM in CM CO O) CM CO CO ID CM t- ID co in m o in t- id in in m CM •O- CM cm m cd CM CO r^- CO CO CO CD CM CM CO T- CO CD T- 00 T- CM CO CD CM * T- CD CM CM CO i— CO CM in N OJ (D 2 => CC CE CD H CD £ F cc rr dc < dc h CC Q o - 0- m - h- — 1 ^ in £E ^ o Z Z ^ DC O UJ D O - 1JJ O Q_ Q CD DC X CC RED-HEADED WOODPECKER aaia a3d A1ND00 Add3d AINHOO NVMOd HOS 13S NIV1NDOAI 3Nld 13Sd3IAIOS NOlONIldna 311IANVa N019NIX31 d3931>l ldOd^NVdd 331IAA913HS 311IASin01 lS3dOd IAI3HN939 *aVd >13399 d3110 A1NDOO IdVH M09SV19 >ld N 3AV9 HIOIAIAIVW N3399 9NI1M0a AINHOO M909NVH N019NIA13A 0H990S NOIdVAl S3>1V1 3H1 N33M139 QNV1 D O O Q CL in oo a CO r- in — CO CO co cm in CM CM O) m co tj- cd o co id co co h- tj- ^ m n ^ o oj CD ID CD CM CD i— CM S CO CM CM TT T- CO CD CM in CD CO CD CM CM in co r- h- cd co co r-- co ^ m CD CO T- N N T- CM CD cm t— in m o co in ^ t— m cm CD CM CD CM TJ CD * in r- CO * CM CO 'T CO 'I ID cDr-'^-T-inmcMrrCM^ cDCMcocomcDT-^cjun CO ^ CM CD O CM tJ- tJ- CD i- cr LD cr UJ cr LD * o LD LD O X o LD Q. 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C/3 g! g O DC DC K < E < 5; < a. |» a " Q. 10 o 5 X z < o o g cj- co co Q CD LU LU LU <£ Q Q E E J CQ * d £ ^00 < < u CO DC (3 <-> co w - 2 Q 01 n < E 2 lu §5 Lx. — g I g g a _i cr lu cc cr o cr CO O CD * o LX- C/3 _J D O S 5 CL X 0- < < LU CD > C/3 O O cr CE X o < X O C/3 E LU Z CD LU 3 > o CM CO CO CM CM N T- CO O CD co co co in CM CO CO T- Q co CM CD M- O) CM CO CD CO a 52 CO CO CM <0 o s CO s CO d- co co co CM CO CM a CM 1- Tj- CM in K O Z T- CO CM cm co in O 2: o t- in co CO CM CO O 16 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Road and Geralds Lane.) Habitat open farmland, 100 acre pond (frozen), river bottoms (Green River), small towns. Dec. 27; 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky mostly sunny; temp. 35 to 45°F; wind 20-25 m.p.h. Wind gusty. Three observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10.5 (7 on foot, 3.5 by car). Total party-miles 85 (5 on foot, 80 by car). Total species 43; total individuals 150,747. Steve Kistler (compiler), Cap Middleton and Mitch Sturgeon. OTTER CREEK PARK (center as described in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 38%, fields and pastures 28%, deciduous wood 18%, creeks, lake and river 12%, town 1%, roadsides 3%. Dec. 28; 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy to clear. Ponds frozen. Doe Lake and Ohio River open. Fifteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 40 (17 on foot, 23 by car) plus one hour owling. Total party-miles 261 (18 on foot, 243 by car), plus 3 miles owling. Total species 63; total individuals 5,111. The Common Loon and the Canada Geese set new records for this count, so far as numbers are concerned. The Mute Swan on Doe Lake was a surprise and was gone six days later. The American Woodcock, new for this count, was reported within the park by Doxie Noonan. Golden- crowned Kinglets were scarce and Ruby-crowned Kinglets were entirely absent. Both the Carolina Wren and Eastern Bluebird showed declines. White-throated Sparrows were up and White-crowned down from the 1984 count. — Mary B. Bauer, R. Cassell, W. Dahl, R. Games, Smith Hundley, Frank and John Krull, J. Noel, Doxie Noonan, B. Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, Helga Schutte, Tony Smith, F. W. Stamm and Anne Stamm (com¬ piler). BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974.) Jan. 1; 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 22 to 38°F; wind variable, 0-5 m.p.h. Nineteen observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 60.5 (25.5 cn foot, 35 by car). Total party-miles 338 (18 on foot, 320 by ear). Total species 72; individuals 8,193. Optimal weather conditions and better-than-average coverage resulted in a record total for species. All lakes and ponds were frozen except for one lake warmed by distillery overflow, on which most of the geese, ducks and the Eastern Phoebe were observed. High counts were made for sev¬ eral species including, Northern Harrier, Red-tailed Hawk, Eastern Blue¬ bird and Hermit Thrush. — Brad Andres, Mary Bill Bauer, Jane and Pat Bell, Dike Bixler, Roland and Marie Blahnik, George Crabtree, Diane Ebel, Marion Jones, Sarah McClellan, Joan Noel, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer- Ball, Jr. (compiler), Martha Pike, Helga Schutte, Lawrence Smith and Stephen Washburn. LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center junction Hwys. 42 and 22.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 22; 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 26 to 49°F; wind SW, 3-20 m.p.h. Ponds and lakes frozen. Thirty nine observers in 11 parties. Total party- hours 96 (52 on foot, 44 by car). Total party-miles 537 (52 on foot, 485 by car). Total species 89; total individuals 19,384. Diversity (89 species) was higher than expected, in view of the ex¬ tremely cold weather the week preceding the count, which resulted in most 1983 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 17 lakes and ponds being frozen. Waterfowl diversity was good, and the numbers of Canada Geese were a local high count, and the presence of wintering Black-crowned Night Herons once again was encouraging. Northern birds were also good, especially Horned Larks, again a local high. House Finches continue to increase, as expected. However, no verified rarities were reported. — May Bauer, Don Blackburn, Donald Blackburn, Marie and Ronald Blahnik, K. W. Clay, Diane Ebel, D. L. Garst, Stewart and Mary Ann Jenkins, Brian Johnson, F. H., F. X., John and Mary Krull, Burt Monroe, Jr. (compiler), Mark Monroe, K. C. Mudd, Dottie and Janice Muntan, Barry Nichols, Doxie and J. R. Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Jim Pasikowski, Martha Pike, Bob Quaife, Lene Rauth, Carl Schultz, Helga Schutte, Bernice Shannon, L. D. Smith, Tony Smith, Anne and F. W. Stamm, Midge Susie, Stephen Washburn, Julie Wooldridge, Bob Zaremba (Beckham Bird Club). SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center three quarters of a mile south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on KY Hwy. 714.) Habitat farmland, fallow land, suburban, wooded and grass¬ land. Dec. 29; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 28 to 36°F; wind S-SW, 0-5 m.p.h. Four observers in 1 party. Total party- hours 10 ( 1 on foot, 9 by car). Total party-miles 118 (1 on foot, 117 by car). Total species 50; total individuals 2,884. John Brown, Stephanie Brown, Todd Brown, W. H. Brown (com¬ piler) and Christina Martin. FRANKFORT (center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 28; 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 20 to 30°F; wind W-SW, 7-12 m.p.h. Snow cover, .4 inches, water partly open. Fifteen observers in 11 parties. Total party-hours 60 (32 on foot, 28 by car). Total party-miles 316 (33 on foot, 283 by car). Total species 68; total individuals 7,866. This is one of the higher counts for Frankfort. Canada Geese were reported by several parties. Jim Rettig found the Red-breasted Merganser and Horned Grebes on the Kentucky River. W. H. Brown observed the female Merlin perched for a long interval. Sparrows, except for White- crowned Sparrows, were in good numbers with the unexpected Vesper Sparrow reported by Jim Rettig. House Finches have greatly increased in the Frankfort area. — W. H. Brown, Rose Canon, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Howard Jones (compiler), Jeff and Marla Jones, Margaret LaFontaine, Christina Martin, James Rettig, Teresa Rollins, Jim Williams, Tim Williams. KLEBER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (center and habitat as described in 1977.) Jan. 4; 7:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 29 to 40°F; wind E-SE, 5-12 m.p.h. Twelve observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 27 (12 on foot, 15 by car). Total party-miles 188 (11 on foot, 177 by car). Total species 54; total individuals 3,801. This is the highest species count for the Kleber-Owen County area. This is probably the most representative count of the area as we had the most complete circle of coverage by a very able group of birders. Robins were plentiful due to the cedar berry crop. Durell observed the Canada 18 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Geese over the Kleber area. Screech Owls were found in response to calling. All still water was frozen so the lakes and ponds were empty. We failed to get Killdeer and Mourning Dove numbers were low. — Brad Andres. Richard Cassell, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Sherri Evans, Howard Jones (compiler), Sarah McClellan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., James Rettig, Julie Smoak, Jim Williams and Tim Williams. LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 37°55’ N, 84°28’ W, East Hickman on Tates Creek.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 22; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 2 to 18°F; wind 0-5 m.p.h. Thirty two observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 82 (12 on foot, 70 by car). Total party-miles 410 (16 on foot, 394 by car). Total species 78; total individuals 21,913. The weather was a lot different from last year. We started out with very cold temperatures this year. Last year we had a comfortable 70 de¬ grees. It only wa.med to 18°F this year. There was a fair amount of food this year, but it was scattered so there were small pockets of birds. We have a large Crow roost in Lexing¬ ton and for the last few years in has been in the count area. It varies from 14,000 to 19,000 + . This year it might have exceeded this number, but none had time to do more counting. Most birds were low in numbers this year. — Pat Anderson, Brad Andres, Bill Barbour, Roger Barbour, Earl Boggs, Gary Boggs, Patrick Boggs, Ann Bradley, Eugene Bradley, Manton Cornett, Ron Duncan, Doris Ferm, Jean Flynn, Mike Flynn, Jonathon Glix- son, Ray Huddles, Terrie Koontz, Betty Maxson, Robert L. Morris (com¬ piler), Sarah McClellan, Rosemary Petty, Jerry Reece, Philippe Roca, Lewis Shain, E. Marie Sutton, Andy Uterhart, Marion Uterhart, Sallie Wasielewski, Clara Weilands, Jim Williams, Mike Williams, J. Bernice Woods. Feeder Counters: Mabel Boggs, Ruth Davis, Mrs. Richard T. Stofer, Jr., Peggy Wallace and Jim Wood. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat farmland 50%, woodland 14%, residential 13%, lakeshore 10%, streamsides 7%, parkland 6%. Dec. 21; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 4 to 20°F; wind calm. Twenty-nine observers in 9 parties. Total party hours 61.7 (13.5 on foot, 48.2 by car). Total party- miles 474 (18.3 on foot, 455.7 by car). Total species 72; total individuals 8,308. Joe Amburgey, Ernie Baird, Ron Barbato, Ed Caldwell, Harry and Molly Caldwell, Neil Eklund (complier), Martha and Tobin Foster, John Gower, JoArn and Mike Hamm, Alice Heck, Edna Heck, Helen Heck, Mort Hoaglund, Mosel Jester, J. W. Kemper, Chuck Kohler, Fred Loetscher, D. W. MacDonald, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, J. B. Nichols, Walter Penn¬ ington, L. M. Reid, Joe Russell, Greg and Sandy Wagner. BURLINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Camp Michaels near Union, KY.) Habitat woodland and forest edge 50%, farmland 20%, streams, lakes and rivers 20%, residential 10%. Dec. 28; 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear in a.m., cloudy and overcast in p.m.; temp. 15 to 28° F; wind W, 5-15 m.p.h. Lakes and streams mostly frozen, Ohio River open. Twenty-one observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 33.5 (13 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 19 on foot, 20.5 by car). Total party-miles 33.5 (13 on foot, 20.5 by car). Total party-miles 273 (9 on foot, 264 by car). Total species 50; total individuals 2,577. Waterfowl and blackbird species were in low numbers, while sparrows and finches were well represented. A partially albinistic Purple Finch was seen at Gerri Kennedy’s feeders. — Mike Andrews, Joe Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Joanne Conradi, Marjorie Hill, Stan Hirtle, Bill Jacoby, Carolyn Johnson, Kathy Johnson, Ed Kennedy, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (com¬ piler), Lynda McNeely, Rick Riley, Denise Rusconi, Georgs Schoen, Carmen Schultz, Pat Scott, Tommy Stephens, Shea Stephenson, Carolyn Van Huss. SOMERSET (center and habitat as described in 1980.) Jan. 1; 9:00 a. m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 16 to 42°F; wind S, 0-5 m.p.h. Three ob¬ servers in 1 party. Total party-hours 9 (3 on foot, 6 by car). Total party- miles 80 (2 on foot, 78 by car). Total species 47; total individuals 160,636. The large number of blackbirds was part of a roost in the Somerset area. — Bradford Elmore, Diane Elmore, Jackie B. Elmore, Sr. (compiler). PINE MOUNTAIN SETTLEMENT SCHOOL (center and habitat as described in 1980.) Jan. 4; 4:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 23 to 45°F; wind SW, 0-20 m.p.h. Twelve observers in 6 parties. Total party- hours 26 (22 on foot, 4 by car). Total party miles 125 (26 on foot, 99 by car). Owling: 2.5 hours, 19 miles. Five feeder watchers for 11.5 feeder hours. Total species 41; total individuals 1,170. Ken Arthur, Julious Begley, Liz Bradshaw, Afton and John Garrison, Alice and Rodney Hendrickson, Dean and Miriam Johnston, Steve McKee (compiler), Zelma Metcalfe, Karoun and Matthew Miller, Francis Owen, Daisy Ray, Mary Rogers, May Williams. Common Ravens are apparently increasing somewhat in our area since they were first sighted in 1978. ROWAN COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Morehead, Ky.) Habitat as described before. Jan. 5; 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sky clear to 40% cloudy; temp. 28 to 45° F; wind W, 0-2 m.p.h. One observer in 1 party. Total party-hours 7 (2 on foot, 5 by car). Total party-miles 62 (3 on foot, 59 by car). Total species 68; total individuals 1,601. Fred Busroe (compiler). PERRY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Bonnyman, Perry County, Ky.) Habitat deciduous woods, woodland edge and residential. Dec. 28; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 25 to 35° F; wind light. It was windy in the morning. Four observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 12 (10 on foot, 2 by car). Total party-miles 40 (4 on foot, 36 by car). Total species 30; total individuals 359. Although we didn’t see Barred Owls this time, they are doing fairly well and are widespread. Great Horned Owls are very rare; only one found in nine years. Barn Owls are also very rare with only one sighting in eight years. — Dr. Dennis Sandlin (compiler), Dr. Don Spencer, Johnny Spencer and Benjamin Spencer. 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 RED BIRD (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Beverly, Ky.) Habitat forest land 60%, faim land 40%, elevation 1,200 to 2,300 feet. Jan. 1; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 20 to 40° F; wind W, 5 m.p.h. Five observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 9 (8 on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles 18 (6 on foot, 12 by car). Total species 22, total individuals 314. The wild food crop was excellent. — Phyllis and Shirley Crouse, Esther and Sam (compiler) Lawson, Mabel White. FIELD NOTES HOUSE FINCH BUILDS NEST IN A HANGING FERN PLANT Since the House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) has only been re¬ ported in Kentucky since 1977 and little is known of its nesting habits it may be well to comment on two nests we were privileged to see during the summer of 1984. On 6 May 1984, we noticed a House Finch carrying nesting material to a fern plant hanging from our front porch in southwest Louisville. Three days later we discovered one egg in the nest and another on the following day. We decided not to check the nest each day so as not to disturb the birds. Later that week to our disappointment and surprise we found the nest abandoned. The nest was neatly tucked in the center of the fern and although fairly compact it was rather shallow. Its outside depth was two inches; inside depth, one-half to one inch; outside diameter, four inches; inside d'ameter, two inches. It was composed entirely of fine grasses, rootlet and weed stems. The lining was made up of finer grasses, bits of cotton and tiny feathers. The eggs were a pale bluish-white, with a few tiny dots at the larger end. On 28 June 1984, my next door neighbor discovered a nest with four eggs cradled in their fern plant which was also hanging from the porch ceiling. We were asked to identify the birds and to our surprise the owners were House Finches. We could not watch the nest as closely as we would have liked, but three eggs hatched on July 7 and on July 13 all four nest¬ lings were in the downy stage. The young were fairly well feathered on July 19 and all left the nest on July 23. Although, we do not know the length of the incubation period, we do know the nestlings remained in the nest for 16 days. — Violet and Wilbur Jackson, 4910 Manslick Road, Louis¬ ville 40216. 1933 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 21 FIRST RECORD OF THE MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD IN KENTUCKY At approximately 9:00 a.m. on the morning of 22 December 1984, we discovered a Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides) three miles northeast of the community of Garrett in rural Meade County. The bird, tentatively identified as a male, was found associating with a sizable flock of Eastern Bluebirds (Sialia sialis) that numbered at various times from 20 to 50 birds. The Mountain Bluebird was found while we were covering an assigned territory on the Otter Creek Pai'k Christmas Bird Count. The location was near the western end of Pack Lane, a gravel road running northeast from SR-1238 to the western edge of the Fort Knox Military Reservation where it dead ends. It was first noticed among the Eastern Bluebirds as the flock fed on dogwood and sumac berries in a low, protected yard off Pack Lane, it was immediately noticeable due to its grayish breast which contrasted sharply with the neat, rufous breast color of the many Eastern’s. In addi¬ tion, the blue of the upperparts was of a more turquoise shade, being most intense on the wings, rump and tail. On the crown, nape and upper back the blue was more or less obscured by grayish-buff feather edgings. Like¬ wise the underparts, especially the throat and breast feathers, were heavily tipped with grayish-buff, entirely obscuring the blue throat and breast unless a breeze parted these feathers. After checking a couple of field guides, we further confirmed that the bill was relatively longer and slimmer than those of the Eastern Bluebirds, a feature that, along with a sleeker neck and head shape, gave the bird a more flycatcher-like appearance. Also, the primaries were proportionately longer, overlapping the tail to a much greater extent than the Eastern’s primaries. The hovering behavior, characteristic of Mountain Bluebirds was not noticeable; however, its slimmer build was evident at all times, and the bird could be picked out in flight due to its slightly larger size and longer wings. The plumage of this bird caused some confusion because it resembled neither the typical male nor female plumages illustrated in the various field guides. When sitting high against a light background the bird’s colors looked deceptively “washed out”, whereas, when viewed low, against a darker background or in good light, the blues of the back, wings and tail were quite vivid. The gray breast seemed characteristic of a female, but the bright blue bases of the breast and throat feathers which could clearly be seen when the wind parted them seemed to indicate that the bird might be a male. Also, the extent and intensity of the bright blue of the crown, neck and back were characteristic of a male. Ridgeway (Bent, A.C. Life Histories of North American Thrushes, Kinglets and Their Allies, U.S. National Museum Bulletin No. 196) describes a “winter plumage” for Mountain Bluebirds with pale brownish-gray feather edgings that obscure the blue of both the upperparts and underparts to various degrees as typical of both first-year male and winter adult female plumages. Based on these characteristics, the bird was tentatively identified as a male. After observing the bird for some time, we drove to Otter Creek Park to alert other count participants of our find. By day’s end, at least six others were able to see the Mountain Bluebird. Over the following several weeks, the bird was observed on at least four other occasions: December 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 23, 28, January 5 and 13. On most occasions, the bluebird flock, including the Mountain Bluebird, could be found near the original site or within a half-mile along nearby woods edges and fields where they alternately fed on sumac berries and (presumably) insects over and around small pools of water that were standing in sinks in the fields. On January 5 the entire flock of bluebirds was observed about one mile down Pack Lane foraging in weedy cover on Fort Knox. On January 13 birds were foraging on the ground on a south-facing slope where there was no snow cover, and several fairly good photographs were obtained of the Mountain Bluebird. Subsequent to this sighting, ex¬ tremely cold weather invaded the eastern United States for several weeks. Two mid-February trips to relocate the Mountain Bluebird were unsuccess¬ ful. In fact, no bluebirds could be found. It is not known whether the blue¬ birds, especially the Easterns which are very susceptible to extreme cold perished or moved further south. It is possible that the entire flock of birds moved to a more protected area on the Fort Knox Reservation. This occurrence represents the first record of the Mountain Bluebird in Kentucky. Records of the Mountain Bluebird east of the Mississippi are few, but vagrant birds show up annually and many eastern states have at least one record. All published records examined are of single birds that have turned up in late fall or winter, usually with flocks of Eastern Blue¬ birds. It is presumed that these birds wander east in fall and overwinter in the eastern United States, returning to the west in the spring. — Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Richard Cassell, and Diane Ebel, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. BOOK REVIEW BIRDS OF THE NASHVILLE AREA. 4th ed., compiled by Henry E. Parmer and the Nashville Chapter of the Tennessee Ornithological Society, P. O. Box 24573, Nashville, Tennessee 37202-4573, 1985; pp. iv + 60; $4.00. This publication is the most recent compilation of bird observations in the vicinity of Nashville, Tennessee. It also stands as a testimony to active participation by birders in the Nashville area. It is notable that the Com¬ mittee for the Fourth Edition thanks “the growing number of observers who regularly go to the field in the Nashville area.” No names will be mentioned in this review for fear of omission of several contributors. This fourth edition includes a map to show the area covered — ap¬ proximately 40 miles in diameter. Brief accounts of the physiography, veg¬ etation, and weather are given. The status and frequency of each of the 306 species are included. Status includes the usual terms of permanent resi¬ dent, summer resident, etc. Frequency is based on the percentage of field trips in which a species is encountered. For example, if a species is ob¬ served on approximately 75-100 percent of field trips it is designated as common ; if observed on less than five percent of field trips conducted in 1986 THKE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 habitat condusive to that species it is considered rare; and if seen once every few years it is listed as an occasional species. Following is the information provided for one species: “220. Red-eyecl Vireo — Summer Resident (fairly common SP, SU, and F). Extreme dates: 30 Mar 1945 (1) Graybar Ln. (ARL) to 27 Oct 1975 (1 tower casualty) (KAG).” A helpful bar-graph gives the period of expected occurrence, the period of possible occurrence, and also dates of sighting that are out of range or season. This is similar to that found in SUMMARY OF OCCURRENCE OF BIRDS OF KENTUCKY by Burt L. Monroe, Jr., The Kentucky Warbler, Vol. 45, Aug., 1969. BIRDS OF THE NASHVILLE AREA contains little discussion, but there is an interesting section entitled “Changes in the Avifauna, 1975- 1985.” An additional 22 species have been included, and various species have increased or decreased in number, due primarily to the expansion of the human population and the impact of man on the environment. In the introduction the statement is made that “the purpose of the present account is to provide a summary of bird records for the Nashville area through August 31, 1985.” Other aims are to encourage birders in the Nashville area to become even more active in their birding activities and to maintain accurate records for inclusion in the next edition. This publication should be of particular interest and assistance to anyone studying birds in the vicinity of Nashville, and it is worthy of emulation by birders in other regions. — H. E. Shadowen, Dept, of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, 42101. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. SPRING MEETING The Kentucky Ornithological Society will hold its annual spring meeting at Rough River Dam State Resort Park on April 25-27. A block of 25 rooms is being held available at a 15% discount for K.O.S. members until Ap-il 1. Once again the Clay’s have graciously invited us to join them for an excellent birding experience and fellowship at the bird sanctuary. Please mark your calendars, make reservations early and plan to join us at Rough River. ;The Kentucky Warbler £ (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) IN THIS ISSUE THE WINTER SEASON, 1985-1986, Anne L. Stamm 26 WINTER WATERFOWL ON THE SWAN POND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA, Charles W. Logsdon 30 THE K.O.S. SPRING MEETING, Lee Me Neely 32 BOOK REVIEW, Herbert Shadowen 34 NEWS AND VIEWS 35 25 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Fred Busroe, Morehead Vice-President Jim William, Lexington Corr. See. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Councillors : Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensbon Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Lee McNeely, Burlington 1984-1986 1984- 1986 1985- 1987 . 1985-1987 Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER Our thanks go to Philippe Roca of Lexington for the excellent photo¬ graph of this pair of Wood Ducks. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 26 THE WINTER SEASON, 1985-86 Anne L. Stamm The mild weather of the fall continued until the third week of December when the temperature dropped to six degrees on three days. Only 1.6 inches of snow fell during the month. Due to that week of cold weather the average monthly temperature at Louisville was 6.8 degrees below normal, according to the Weather Bureau. January and March both had average temperatures above normal. The weather in February was mixed with ups and downs. A winter storm hit the Louisville area and much of the state on February 14 and 15. Snowfall was as high as eight inches in central Kentucky making roads in some sections of Jefferson County impassable, but with warm days following the storm the snow melted rather rapidly. At Louisville on February 18 the temperature hit 72 degrees — one degree short of the record for that date. Elsewhere in the state temperatures were equally mild. Paducah tied its record high with a reading of 71 degrees and Lexington recorded a high of 69 degrees, one below its record. The high was 70 in Bowling Green and 65 in Covington. Less than an inch of rain fell in December and January, but precipitation was above normal in February. As expected with the mild winter some species lingered into late December. Canada Geese were found in large groups in late December in much of the state. Gulls were in lower numbers than in recent years. The duck population was uninteresting except in western Kentucky, particularly Ballard County. Fairly good numbers of Purple Finches and Pine Siskins were present in late January and February. Evening Grosbeaks were present in good numbers in eastern and western Kentucky, but few in the central part of the state. Unusual birds recorded included a Tundra Swan, White-fronted Goose, Glaucous and Thayer’s Gulls, Gray Catbirds, wintering Brown Thrashers, LeConte’s Sparrow and Brewer’s Blackbirds. Loons through Herons — - One to ten Common Loons were present at Lake Pewee, Lake Barkley and Lexington Reservoir the first two weeks of December, but five were present at Doe Valley Lake, January 5 (S, DN, DS, FS), three at Barren River the first week of January (WM) and one at Green River Lake, January 12 (JEl). Several Pied-billed Grebes wintered at Barren River Reservoir (RS), Lake Pewee (JH) and Lexington Reservoir (BA). Horned Grebes were scarce; one at Lake Pewee on February 19 was probably a spring arrival (JH). Although Great Blue Herons were widespread they were not as numerous as last winter; highest numbers were along the Barren River (WM). In addition to the four Black-crowned Night Herons reported on the Louisville CBC, two were seen at Mayfair basins on February 26 (BPB). Waterfowl — An interesting find was the Tundra Swan at Jonathan Creek Bay on December 21 (MM) and 22 (MM, CP). A flock of 14 Mute Swans appeared at Three Springs Lake, Warren County in early December and remained throughout the period (WM); five were observed at Camp- bellsville Lake, Taylor County on January 12 (JEl) ; and an adult was seen at Doe Valley Lake on December 28, but was gone six days later 27 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 (S, H. Schutte, M. Bauer). A Greater White-fronted Goose was seen at Honker Lake on February 20 (CP). The only large concentration of wintering Snow Geese totaled 9000 to 10,000 at Ballard Waterfowl Man¬ agement Area (hereafter BWMA) on February 1 (CW). Wintering Canada Geese were present in fairly large flocks and were widespread (m.ob.) ; largest concentration totaled 62,000 at BWMA (CW). The latter flock began moving northward in late January and only 10,000 were present on February 10 (CW). The largest concentration of ducks was in western Kentucky. The duck population peaked with 19,000 at BWMA on December 16 (CW). Mallards were widesrpead, but no large numbers, with the exception of 1243 on the Louisville CBC and 1000 at Swan Pond on February 16 (BPB). Ducks from farther south, such as American Wigeon, Gadwall and Northern Pintail, began arriving at lakes, ponds and reservoirs in western, central and northern Kentucky during February. Only 12 Canvasbacks appeared on the CBCs, but numbers increased in January and February with 10 at Louisville on January 29 (LR), 150 at Lake Barkley on January 18 (BPB, LR, R. Cassell and D. Ebel), and 100 plus at Swan Lake, February 16 (BPB). Highest counts of Redheads included 50 at Lake Pewee on February 26 (JH) and 100 to several hundred at Swan Lake on February 16 (BPB). A few Greater Scaup were reported: two in the Ohio River basin at Louisville, December 17 (LR); a few at Towhead Island, Louisville in mid-January (BPB); two at Shippingport Island on December 22 (S, H. Scutte) ; and at Three Springs Lake and Barren River Reservoir during February and December, respectively (WM). An Oldsquaw was photographed in the bottoms adjacent to Swan Pond, February 16 (BPB). Scoters reported included a pair of Surf at Smithland Dam, December 3 (BPB) and a White-winged at Lexington Reservoir on December 13 (BA). Over 100 Common Goldeneye Ducks were seen at Lake Barkley on January 18 (BPB, LR, R. Cassell, D. Ebel). Hooded Mergansers were reported from six localities: Lake Pewee, Lexing¬ ton Reservoir, Lentz’ Pond, Barren River Reservoir, Lake Barkley and Cave Run Lake. Common and Red-breasted Mergansers were present, but in small numbers with a high count of 20 Common on Honker Lake, January 18 (BPB et al.) and 16 of the latter species at Lake Pewee on February 19 (JH). Hawks — A single Osprey was still present at Fishing Creek Recrea¬ tional Area, Pulaski County, December 1 (JE1); and one on January 2 at the Narrows Boat Dock on Barren River Reservoir (WM). Bald Eagles were present in good numbers this winter. The January survey totaled 234, a new record (JD). Northern Harriers were up from last year; five were seen two miles east of Harrodsburg on December 29 (LR). Both Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks were widely observed in fair numbers during December. Cooper’s were also reported eating birds: a Starling at Owensboro (RI), a Mourning Dove at Louisville (W. Schoettler) and one crashed into a basement window and killed itself chasing prey at a nearby feeder (DN). Red-shouldered Hawks remained scarce, but were doing slightly better. Red-tailed Hawks showed a 74% gain over last year, ac¬ cording to the CBCs. Most of the few Rough-legged Hawks were found in central Kentucky with a maximum of 21 found near roosts in Clark County, January 14 (BA). The rare Merlin was reported at Glasgow on January 11 (RS). 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 28 Wild Turkey through Shorebirds — In addition to the 30 Wild Turkeys reported on the Land Between the Lakes CBC, 12 were observed in Ballard County on February 18 (BPB, J. MacGregor). A few Dunlin and a Least Sandpiper lingered until December 21 at Jonathan Creek Bay (M. Miller fide CP) ; singles of each species were also noted at Lake Barkley on December 3 (BPB). Quite unusual was the Spotted Sandpiper at Camp- bellsville Lake, Taylor County on January 19 (JE1). American Woodcocks were seen or heard in February at eight locations with the earliest at Land Between the Lakes on February 15 (BA) ; one picked up at Treyton Oak Towers, Louisville on February 19, and after a short period of time, took to the air ( fide S). It was thought the bird flew against one of the windows and was temporarily stunned. Jaeger through Gulls — A jaeger species, a new record for the state, was seen on Lake Barkley, one mile south of the dam on December 3 (BPB). Thirty-five Bonaparte’s Gulls were present at Lake Barkley on December 8 (BPB, LR, R. Cassell, D. Ebel), but only a few could be found in January at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB), Lake Cumberland (BA), and Cave Run Lake (FB). Ring-billed Gulls were not as numerous this winter, with peaks of 3000-3500 at Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake (DN, CP, BPB); fair numbers at Barren River Reservoir (RS) and approximately 30 remained all winter at the Fish Hatchery and Cave Run Lake (FB). Herring Gulls were in low numbers at Louisville (LR), and only several hundred at Barkley and Kentucky Dams, in January and February (BPB). An adult Thayer’s Gull was observed at Smithland Dam, Livingston County, and three first-year birds below Kentucky Dam on January 18 (BPB, R. Cassell, D. Ebel); two first-year birds at Kentucky Dam on February 15 and one there the following day were the only ones reported (BPB). A total of six Glaucous Gulls (1 adult, others first-year and first- second winter) were observed at Lake Barkley, Kentucky and Barkley Dams on various dates ranging from December 8 to February 16 (BPB, DN, JR, LR, R. Cassell, D. Ebel) ; one (first-winter) at the Falls of the Ohio from December 27-January 12 (DN, BPB, D. Ebel). Owls through Swallows — The only Common Barn Owls reported were the two on the CBCs: one at Sorgho and one at Lexington. Short-eared Owls were scarce: one in Shelby County on January 12 (WB). Horned Larks were much more numerous during late December than last year, especially in Louisville and Yelvington. A fairly early Tree Swallow was observed on February 16 over Swan Pond, Ballard County (BPB). Several Eastern Phoebes lingered into late December and early January (m.ob. ). Crows through Shrikes — A large Crow roost was again reported near Lexington with numbers estimated at 14,000+ during late December (RM). Red-breasted Nuthatches were common and widespread. They remained throughout the winter in Fayette, Hopkins, Jefferson and Warren Counties. A feeder at Bowling Green had as many as nine birds at one time (WM). Carolina Wrens apparently suffered from the severe weather in January 1985 since the CBCs showed a 34% decrease over last year. Eastern Blue¬ birds were widespread, but showed a decline over the previous year. Finding nine Hermit Thrushes at Land Between the Lakes on February 15 was of special interest ( BA ) . Migratory movements of the American Robin were noted during the week of January 15-21 at Louisville (S) and in Lexington on February 6 (BA). Statewide fewer American Robins wintered than in 29 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 1985. A few Catbirds were recorded: one on January 1 at Freeman Lake (RH) ; and one at Louisville on January 14 (MB). A few Brown Thrashers wintered: one throughout the period at Madisonville (JH); one at Louis¬ ville from December 26-February 14 (S, FS). Water Pipits were observed throughout January in Clark County and a single bird at Land Between the Lakes on February 15 (BA). Loggerhead Shrikes were about normal in numbers. Warblers through Blackbirds — Yellow-rumped Warblers were scarce in some localities. Only small numbers of Tree Sparrows were present this winter. A few Savannah Sparrows showed up in Clark County on January 26 (BA) and 15 were seen near Bandana, Ballard County on February 16 (BPB). A LeConte’s Sparrow at La Center, Ballard County, February 16 was probably an early migrant (BPB). A total of 45 Fox Sparrows on the Bowling Green CBC was unusual (H. Shadowen). The species was not found in some areas where it usually overwinters (DS), but two or three were present at feeders during the coldest weather at Surrey Hill Farm, Louisville (BPB). An unusually large blackbird roost was present in the Fern Creek area. On November 27 Dr. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. estimated 467,000 birds with the majority being Common Crackles, and Starlings. Numbers increased and by the end of February the roost contained approximately 9,200,000 birds. At the latter date, Common Grackles, Red-winged Black¬ birds and Brown-headed Cowbirds made up the larger portion of the roost (BM). Three male and one female Brewer’s Blackbirds were seen in Clark County on February 19 (BA). Finches — Purple Finches were widespread and in good numbers. House Finches continued to increase in numbers particularly in central Kentucky (m. ob.). A probable Common Redpoll was heard, but “not seen well” at BWMA on February 16 (BPB). Pine Siskins were widespread and more common than last winter; 30 were at a feeding station on January 16, east of Murray (WB); and as many as 14 on a feeder in Bowling- Green (WM). American Goldfinches were unusually common and wide¬ spread. There was much activity at feeding stations: a count of 100 at Murray on January 16 (WB); a maximum of 52 at Madisonville (JH); also good numbers at Valley Station (DS). Evening Grosbeaks were more common in eastern and western Kentucky than in the central part. Fifteen to thirty were seen daily at a feeding station in Morehead and similar numbers at other feeders in the city (FB) ; a count of 125 at a feeder east of Murray on January 16 (WB) ; “hordes” at Tompkinsville (fide RS) ; smaller numbers at Falls of the Rough (KC) ; and almost non-existent in Louisville. Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Mary B. Bauer (MB), Wally Brines (WB), W. H. Brown (WB), Kathryn Clay (KC), Herbert Clay (HC), James Durell (JD), Jackie Elmore (JE1), E. Groneman (EG), Richard Healey (RH), James W. Hancock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Lee McNeely (LMc), Mike Miller (MM), Robert Morris (RM), Kay Mudd (KM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer- Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), John Robinson (JR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Margaret Sullivan, (MS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Wilkins (CW). Other abbreviation: Christmas Bird Counts (CBC). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, 40222. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 30 WINTER WATERFOWL ON THE SWAN POND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA Charles W. Logsdon The Swan Pond Wildlife Management Area (SPWMA) consists of approximately 2800 acres of cypress-ringed lakes and natural wetlands in the southwestern corner of Ballard County, Kentucky. During the period from 1 December 1985 through 1 March 1986 intensive waterfowl surveys were performed to document waterfowl use that occurred on the area. The average daily population per week, total goose and duck use-days per week, and total number of Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) and duck use-days for the entire survey period are presented in Tables 1 and 2. Peak Canada Goose use occurred during the last week of February when the average daily population was 1500 geese. This late winter in¬ crease was the result of geese returning north from wintering areas south of the SPWMA. Snow Geese (Chen caerulescens) were not observed on the area until late February when flocks of 4-10 geese were observed on two separate occasions. Blue phase Snow Geese were predominate as only two white phase geese were observed. The only other goose species repre¬ sented was the White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons) of which three im- matures were observed during the last week of February. Table 1. Average daily Canada Goose population estimates by week and total goose use-days observed on the Swan Pond Wildlife Management Area between 1 December 1985 and 1 March 1986. Goose Average Daily Use-days Week Population Range per week 1 Dec. - 7 Dec. 40.0 0- 200 280.0 8 Dec. - 14 Dec. 25.0 0- 200 175.0 15 Dec. - 21 Dec. 345.5 74- 550 2,418.5 22 Dec. - 28 Dec. 617.3 149- 1,000 4,321.1 2P Dec. - 4 Jan. 279.2 150- 550 1,954.4 5 Jan. - 11 Jan. 197.5 57- 326 1,382.5 12 Jan. - 18 Jan. 317.7 183- 585 2,223.9 19 Jan. - 25 Jan. 612.6 515- 700 4,288.2 26 Jan - 1 Feb. 426.1 200- 800 2,982.7 2 Feb. - 8 Feb. 469.8 0- 750 3,288.6 9 Feb. - 15 Feb. 700.00 700 © © © Cvl 16 Feb - 22 Feb. 830.2 521- 1,000 5,811.4 23 Feb. - 1 Mar. 1,500.2 1,200- 1,800 10,500.0 Total 4.3,827.3 * Backwater and ice prevented accurate surveys for majority of week. 31 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Table 2. Average daily duck population estimates by week and total duck use-days observed on the Swan Pond Wildlife Management Area between 1 December 1985 and 1 March 1986. Week Average Daily Population Range Duck Use-days per week 1 Dec. - 7 Dec. 1,034.5 600- 1,469 7,241.5 8 Dec. - 14 Dec. 3,830.0 2,660- 5,000 26,810.0 15 Dec. - 21 Dec. 31,850.0 10,900-45,000 222,950.0 22 Dec. - 28 Dec. 25,850.0 22,500-30,800 180,950.0 29 Dec. - 4 Jan. 11,606.3 7,000-25,000 81,244.1 5 Jan. - 1 1 Jan. 12,316.3 10,430-14,110 86,214.1 12 Jan. - 18 Jan. 2,689.2 615- 8,100 18,824.4 19 Jan - 25 Jan. 4,565.8 3,000- 6,095 31,960.6 26 Jan. - 1 Feb. 21,912.8 3,802-47,620 153,389.5 2 Feb.- 8 Feb. 1,000.2 96- 3,100 7,001.4 9 Feb. - 15 Feb. 3,000.0 3,000 21,0(10.0 16 Feb. -22 Feb. 2,100.8 425- 3,680 14,705.6 23 Feb- 1 Mar. 2,168.5 2,037- 2,300 15,179.5 Total - 867,470.7 * Backwater and ice prevented accurate surveys for majority of week. Duck use on the area was greatest during the third week of December when the average daily population was 31,850 (range 10,900-45,000). Av¬ erage daily populations remained above 10,000 ducks until the second week of January when food resources on the area were exhausted. A dramatic increase from an average daily population of 4,500 to 22,000 was observed during the last week of January as ducks began to return with the first warm air masses that moved north from the Gulf. The primary duck species observed on the area during December and January was Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), but Northern Pintails (A. acuta), American Black Ducks (A. rubripes), American Wigeons (A. amer- icana), Ring-necked Ducks, (Aythya collaris) and Canvasbacks (A. valisin- eria) were also abundant on the area. During late February diving ducks became the predominate species with Lesser Scaup (Aythya af finis), Red¬ heads (Aythya americana) , Common Goldeneyes (Bucephala clangula) and Canvasbacks being the most common species. Buffleheads (Bucephela albe- ula), Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus) and Common Mergansers (Mergus meganser) were also observed regularly. The most notable birds species observed on the area were Anhinga (An- hinga anhinga) on 8 December (1) and 9 December (2), one Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) on 3 December and a family of Trumpeter Swans (Cyngus buccinator (2 adults: 3 immatures) on 11 February (no details given). — Department of Biological Sciences, Murray State University, Murray, Kentucky 42071 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 32 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Spring Meeting — April 25-27, 1986 The 63rd annual spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological So¬ ciety was held at Rough River Dam State Park on April 25-27, 1986. The Friday evening session was called to order by the president, Fred Busroe, who welcomed those present. He then turned the meeting over to vice-president Jim Williams for the introductions of the evening speakers. Brad Andres presented the results of a study on wintering raptors in Clark County, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. spoke on the status of nesting herons and egrets on Shipping-port Island at the Falls of the Ohio, Allen Stickley, Jr. presented a program on blackbird roosts and methods of control, Dr. Herbert Clay provided information on nesting Bluebirds in Grayson County and the evening program wras concluded with an update on the progress of the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas project. Field trips and leaders for Saturday and Sunday were announced. The Friday session was concluded with a social hour. Saturday morning was warm and sunny. There was a 5:00 a.m. field trip around the lodge followed by an 8:00 a.m. trip to the Falls of the Rough led by Mrs. Herbert Clay and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. A lavish lunch was generously provided by the Clays at their Big Pond Sanctuary. A cassette presentation of “Birding with Roger Tory Peterson” was shown at the lodge at 2:30 p.m. The Board of Directors met at 4:00 p.m. The Saturday evening meeting began at 7:30 p.m. at the lodge. Fred Busroe introduced the program, the film “Last Stronghold of the Eagles.” Following the film, members went to the front of the lodge to view Halley’s Comet which was located by the Kingsolvers. The group then returned to the lodge for a brief business meeting. The treasurer’s report was given and Blaine Ferrell, Virginia Kingsolver and Anne Stamm were approved as members of the Nominating Committee. The 1986 Fall Meeting will be October 3-5 at Kenlake State Park and the 1987 Spring Meeting was tentatively set for April 24-26 at Lake Cumberland State Park. Fred Busroe expressed to the Clays the gratitude of the K.O.S. for the fine luncheon they provided at Big Pond Sanctuary. New members were welcomed and new life members were recognized. Members were urged to write their congressmen regarding the need to maintain federal funding for the Land Between the Lakes programs. Finally, Fred Busroe led the group in com¬ piling the day’s bird list which totaled 102 species. A Sunday morning field trip beginning at 8:30 a.m. was led by Mrs. Clay to Byrd Haven. Additional birds observed on Sunday brought the weekend total to 108 species. Total registrations for the meeting were 69. Respectfully submitted Lee McNeely Recording Secretary 33 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 ATTENDANCE AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1986 Members and guests who registered totaled sixty-nine. Seventeen cities in Kentucky, plus one in Indiana, were represented. BOWLING GREEN : Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, William and Ruth Mathes, Herbert and Jacky Shadowen, Allen and Mildred Stickley, Jr. BURLINGTON: Lee and Lynda McNeely. CARLISLE: Wendell and Virginia Kingsolver. CLARKSON : Ruth Keller, Mrs. Temple Keller. CYNTHIANA: Mr. and Mrs. William G. Wigglesworth. ELIZABETHTOWN: George Elliott, Joan Noel, Blanch Schorr. FALLS OF THE ROUGH: Joyce Porter, Judith Williams. GLASGOW: Russell and Faye Starr. HAZARD: Dennis Sandlin HODGENSVILLE: Susan Cruse. LEITCHFIELD : Montelle and Alita Wilson. LEXINGTON: Brad Andres, Michael and Jean Flynn, Sarah McClellan, Jim and Gerry Williams. LOUISVILLE: Jane Bell, Patricia Bell, Robert K. Brown, Altha Cain, Herbert and Kathryn Clay, Katherine Colburn, Diane Ebel, Doris Garst, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, William Schoettler, Beatrice Short, Frederick and Anne Stamm, Donald Summerfield, Judi Jones. MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe. OWENSBORO: Lani Hamilton, Ramon and Eleanor lies, Lydia Green- well, William T. Perkins, Rose Ann Radzelovage, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Worthington, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Wilson. RICHMOND: Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Charles. STANLEY : Mr. and Mrs. T. E. Stevenson. JEFFERSONVILLE, IND.: Larry and Pat Lock, Stuart and Mary Ann Jenkins. BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1986 Birds observed on Saturday field trips include: Green-backed Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Sharp- shinned Hawk. Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Northern Bobwhite, Killdeer, Solitary Sandpiper, Willet, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Barred Owl, Whip-poor-will, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red¬ headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Acadian Flycatcher, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great-crested Flycatcher, Eastern King¬ bird, Horned Lark, Purple Martin, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, House Wren, 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 34 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Loggerhead Shrike, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Palm Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Black-and-white War¬ bler, Prothonotary Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Indigo Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chip¬ ping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Bobolink, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Orchard Oriole, Northern Oriole, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Evening Grosbeak, House Sparrow for a total of 102 species. Ruffed Grouse, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Nashville Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Blue Grosbeak were species observed on Sunday. The addition of these species brought the weekend total to 108 species. BOOK REVIEW FAMILIES OF BIRDS: A Guide to Bird Classification, Revised Edi¬ tion, by Oliver L. Austin, illustrated by Arthur Singer. Golden Press, West¬ ern Publishing Co., Inc., Racine, Wisconsin, 1985; 200 pp. ; $7.95. This is another of the Golden Field Guide publications, and it certainly has the asethetic appeal found in some of the other guides. However, it treats birds at the family level rather than at the species level. A brief introduction is given to world faunal regions, the fossil bird record, and bird evolution. The author considers in phylogenetic sequence the orders and families of birds of the world. Each family description is accompanied by a painting of a member of that family as well as sketches of beaks and feet of some of the families. Each family is briefly described under three categories: distribution, characteristics and habits. Following is the discription of the family Columbidae on page 86 : “PIGEONS, DOVES, Columbidae Distribution: 298 species, 284 living, 5 lately extinct, 38 fossil, to Miocene of France. Worldwide in temperate and tropical regions. Mostly arboreal forest dwellers; some terrestrial in open lands. Many species migratory, especially northern ones. Characteristics: 6-33”. Compact, full-breasted birds with rather short necks and small heads. Bills relatively small and slender, constricted in middle, and with a fleshy cere at base. Colors widely varied. Sexes alike or nearly so. Habits: gregarious or solitary. Most are strong, fast fliers. Eat seeds, fruit, some insects, worms. Eggs 1-3; usually in a frail platform nest; incubated by both parents. Young fed “pigeons milk” from parent’s crop.” The above description is followed by paintings of four species in the family. 35 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 This book is of paperback construction with the pages glued into posi¬ tion, so there may be a tendency for pages to drop out with continued use. I am somewhat confused as to the value of this publication to an ex¬ perienced birder. Much of the material in the text can be found in 14 pages of An Introduction to Ornithology, by Wallace and Mahan, or in other ornithology textbooks. It certainly does not have the value of Birds of North America, by Robbins, Bruun, Zim, and Singer, or other species field guides. Perhaps, if someone were acquainted with bird species and desired additional information concerning bird families and characteristics, he might be interested in this publication, but much more detailed information concerning families of birds is available from several sources. It may have appeal to those who might want a short concise presentation, and I am sure that many will be attracted to it because of the superb artistry of Arthur. Singer. — H. E. SHADOWEN, Biology Department, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green 42101. NEWS AND VIEWS INFORMATION WANTED SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS are being color banded along Ply¬ mouth Beach, MA, as part of an ongoing study to estimate turnover rates. Individuals were marked using, red, orange, white, yellow, and green bands. All bands were placed on the lower leg — two on the left and three on the right. No two bands of the same color are adjacent. If you see a marked bird during spring or fall migration, the following information would be ap¬ preciated: date, location, color band combination, and number of Semipal- mated Sandpipers in the flock. Please send information to MARK J. KASPRZYK, Manomet Bird Observatory, Manomet, MA 02345. MOVING? If you are moving or changing address, please notify the Corresponding Secretary-Treasurer in order that the mailing of the Kentucky Warbler may be carried out expeditiously. Thank you. I g he Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 62 AUGUST, 1986 NO. 3 ! IN THIS ISSUE HAWKWATCHING ALONG THE CUMBERLAND RIDGE, KENTUCKY, Brad Andres 38 THE SPRING MIGRATION OF 1986, Anne L. Stamm .......... 41 BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY — 1986, Lynda Andrews and James Durell 46 KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP ROLL 48 NEWS AND VIEWS . 58 37 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Fred Busroe, Morehead Vice-President Jim William, Lexington Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Recording Secretary Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors : Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard 1984-1986 1984- 1986 1985- 1987 1985-1987 Retiring President Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER Our thanks to Phillipe Roca for this excellent photograph of a female Mallard and young. (The picture was taken using a Nikon F-3 camera equipped with a 300 mm lens plus-X set at 250 ASA and 8 F/S.) 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 38 HAWKWATCHING ALONG THE CUMBERLAND RIDGE, KENTUCKY Brad Andres INTRODUCTION In recent years, the popularity of hawkwatching as an ornithological hobby has grown considerably. With the creation of the Hawk Migration Association of North America (HMANA) ten years ago, hawkwatehers have sprung up all across the country. However, only spotty information exists on raptor migrations in Kentucky. Outside scattered incidents of migration along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, the most regular migration in the state occurs along the Cumberland Mountains in southeastern Ken¬ tucky. Cumberland Gap National Historic Park provides easy access to the ridge to view the migration spectacle. Several observers have witnessed the migration on this ridge, mainly in September, and have published their observations (Stamm 1972, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1985). In helping other Kentucky birders discover hawkwatching, the purpose of this paper is to explain the role of the Cumberland Mountain in migration and provide information on the species occuring along the ridge. A bibliography is provided for those interested in reading further on the subject. THE ROLE OF THE CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN IN HAWK MIGRATION The Cumberland ridge runs one hundred miles from eastern Virginia along the Virginia-Kentucky border, and into Tennessee. This ridge lies on the western edge of the ridge and valley province formed by the Appalachians. These ridges run in a northeast to southwest orientation from Maine to Alabama. It is on the eastern edge of this system that Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Pennsylvania is located. Because of the Cumberland’s position in this arrangement, patterns of migration may vary from the norm at Hawk Mountain. It has been generally found that days of northwest winds produce the best hawk flights. These winds, by perpendicularly striking the ridges, produce deflective currents that are used by hawks on their push south. Northwest winds also tend to drift hawks toward the most eastern ridges concentrating them in places like Hawk Mountain. Thus, on the western ridges, flights may be best when winds are from the north or the east resulting in little drift or even “reverse drift”. Hurly (1970) found that on a similarly positioned ridge in West Virginia, peak flights occurred on days with southeast winds. Although this may be an example of reverse drift, Hurly’s data was concerned with Broad-winged Hawk flights in September which peak in a rather constricted time frame. Further investigations on ridges like the Cumberland may reveal some interesting patterns. One such pattern would be the utilization of these western ridges in spring migration. Besides deflective air currents, hawks also utilize rising warm air masses, thermals, to minimize their energy expenditure during migration. Broad-winged Hawks are well known for their behavior of kettling in large numbers in thermals. Hawks also use ridges as a navigational aid. These “leading lines” aid the bird visually in heading south. (For a thorough treatment of wind drift and leading lines see Mueller 1967). 39 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 HAWKWATCHING ON THE RIDGE In the past, observers have found the parking lot at the park head¬ quarters (Stamm pers. comm.) and the pinnacle overlook to be satisfactory places to view the passage of migrating raptors. From the front of the overlook, facing north, birds can be spotted coming down both sides of the ridge and directly overhead. On days of clear skies and warm tempera¬ tures, birds are often spotted straight up at the limit of binocular vision. Overcast conditions provide the observer with an easier viewing of a low altitude flight. The passing of a front and moderate winds yield the best results. Hawkwatchers are encouraged to record weather parameters according to HMANA’s “Instructions for Daily Report Forms”. These parameters include: Maximum visibility, temperature, sky condition, wind speed and direction, altitude of flight, flight direction, number of observers, minutes of observation, and hourly species observations. All these bits of information are logged onto a computer form which can be turned into IIMANA for nationwide compilation. By being diligent in recording, one can contribute to the general knowledge of hawk migration as well as discern daily and seasonal trends at a specific site. THE FLIGHT ON CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN Generally, hawk migration along the Appalachian occurs from late August to early December. In the past two years I have spent 43.5 hours at the pinnacle observing fall migrating hawks. In this time I have re¬ corded 259 individuals representing ten species. Table I presents the num¬ bers of individuals and the species observed. The lookout has produced an average of six birds per hour over this time. As can be expected, Broad¬ winged Hawks were the dominant species observed. This species is also probably the most variable from year to year depending upon the September temperatures. (See Stamm 1972 regarding a spectacular flight of Broad- wings on the ridge). One surprise was a rather large movement of 166 Tur¬ key Vultures and 16 Red-shouldered Hawks on November 8, 1985 (Stamm 1986). I believe October and November hold the most promise of interesting and unique hawkwatching experiences on the Cumberland ridge. Another interesting aspect of the fall migration is the movement of Sharp-shinned Hawks in relation to Cooper’s Hawks. Both Mengel (1965) and Monroe (1969) regard the Cooper’s as more abundant in the fall than the Sharp- shinned. I have found the ratio of Sharp-shinned to Cooper’s to be heavily skewed toward the former and in accordance with those of other Appalachian lookouts (Table II). In fact, Mengel’s Birds of Kentucky (1965) provides little information on raptor migration within the state. It is my hope that these brief notes will spark interest in other Kentucky birders to explore hawkwatching and fill in the gaps in our ornithological record. As the Stamms will agree, once you’ve gazed upon a kettle of Broad-wings, you will forever have your eyes to the skies. Table I. Numbers and species of raptors observed at Cumberland Gap. DAYS HOURS BV TV SS CR RT RS BW BE NH OS PF AK UUi TOT2 7 43.5 4 166 58 6 61 17 188 1 7 5 2 8 6 259 Species are listed taxonomically from Black Vulture to American Kestrel. 1 - unidentified 2 - total does not reflect vultures 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 40 Table II. Ratios of Sharp-shinned Hawks : chian lookouts. : Cooper’s Hawks at Appala- Lookout SS : CH Hawk Mountain, PA 14 : 1 Raccoon Ridge, NJ 15 : 1 Chilhowee, TN 10 : 1 Mount Tom, MA 11 : 1 Cumberland Gap, KY 10 : 1 BIBLIOGRAPHY Brett, J. J. and A. C. Nagy. 1973. Feathers in the Wind. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Association. Kempton, PA. 70 pp. Broun, M. 1949. Hawks Aloft: The Story of Hawk Mountain. Dodd, Meade Co., New York. 222 pp. Harwood, M. 1973. The View from Hawk Mountain. Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York. 191 pp. Haugh, J. R. and T. J. Cade. 1966. The spring hawk migration around the southeastern shore of Lake Ontario. Wilson Bull. 78: 88-110. Heintzelman, D. S. 1975. Autumn Hawk Flights: The Migration in Eastern North America. Rutgers University Press, New Brunswick, NJ 398 pp. - . 1976. A Guide to Eastern Hawk Watching. Pennsylvania State Uni¬ versity Press. University Park, PA. 284 pp. Hurly, G. 1970. Fall hawk migration along Peters Mountain in Monroe County, West Virginia. Redstart 36(3) : 82-86. Mengel, R. M. 1965. The Birds of Kentucky. American Ornithologist Union, Ornithological Monograph No. 3. 581 pp. Monroe, B. L. Jr. 1969. Summary of occurence of birds of Kentucky. Kentucky Warbler 45: 47-56 Mueller, H. C. and D. D. Berger. 1967. Wind drift, leading lines, and diurnal migrations. Wilson Bull. 79: 50-63. Stamm, A. L. 1972. Migrating hawks over southeastern Kentucky. The Kentucky Warbler 48: 25-26. - . 1979. The Fall Migration Season 1978. The Kentucky Warbler 55: 15. - . 1980. The Fall Migration Season 1979. The Kentucky Warbler 56: 15. - . 1981. The Fall Migration Season 1980. The Kentucky Warbler 57 : 20. - . 1982. The Fall Migration Season 1981. The Kentucky Warbler 58: Il¬ ls. - . 1985. The Fall Migration Season 1984. The Kentucky Warbler 61: 15. - . 1986. The Fall Migration Season 1985. The Kentucky Warbler 62: 4-5. — 506 Spring Hill Dr., Lexington, KY 40503. 41 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 THE SPRING MIGRATION OF 1986 Anne L. Stamm The weather in the spring of 1986 was similar throughout the state: temperature above normal and rainfall below normal. A few record highs were broken at Paducah on March 25 and 30 with 76 and 84 degrees, respectively. In sharp contrast, however, temperatures dipped to a low of 25 degrees in Casey County on 23 April, 25 degrees in the Lake Cumber¬ land region and 28 degrees at Louisville. These low temperatures retarded migration. The general opinion of observers seemed to be that waterfowl move¬ ment was early. There were mixed reports on the shorebird migration due to the dry season and some loss of habitat. Thrushes and warblers seemed to be in lower numbers than in previous seasons and the height of the warbler migration appeared to be in mid-May. Several unusual species of birds were reported : Golden Eagle, Pere¬ grine Falcon, Franklin’s, Laughing and Thayer’s Gulls, Fish Ci’ows, and a Black-headed Grosbeak. Loons through Herons — A few Common Loons were reported begin¬ ning with a single migrant at Lake Pewee on March 26 (JH), two at Cumberland Gap on April 5 (BA), other scattered reports with a maximum of seven at Lake Barkley and last observed there on May 25-26 (BPB, J. Robinson, D. Ebel). Pied-billed Grebes were scarce with a high of 11 at Lake Pewee on March 11 (JH) and one as late as May 6 on the Sauerheber Unit of Sloughs WMA, Henderson County (hereafter S.S.). The only Horned Grebes reported were the five at Lake Pewee on March 11 (JH) and at Cave Run Lake, March 19 (BA). At Least 12 Double- crested Cormorants were seen flying over Lake #9 on April 5 (DN, BBC), two hundred forty there on April 6 (BPB), four, May 26 and one at the Falls of the Ohio, May 1 (BPB). There were reports of single American Bitterns from S.S., April 13 (BA BPB, LR, C. Justice), Grayson County, May 10 ( fide KC), Lentz’s Pond in Louisville, May 14 and two at Reelfoot NWR, April 20 (BPB), while a Least Bittern was reported only at S.S., May 25 (BPB, D. Ebel). Single Great Blue Herons were reported at only four locations: Boyle, Fayette, Hopkins and Trimble Counties. Small numbers of Great Egrets were present in Ballard and Fulton Counties during April and May (BPB) ; singles at East Bend Bottoms, Boone County, April 5 (LMc), Shipping-port Island, April 7 (BPB), and Cave Run Lake, Rowan County, May 8 (BA). Single Snowy Egrets returned to the Falls of the Ohio, May 20-21 and at Swan Lake, Ballard County, May 26 (BPB). Also, six to eight Little Blue Herons were seen at Swan Lake, May 7 and 26 (BPB). Cattle Egrets were widely distributed and reported from Reelfoot NWR, April 6 and 20, Lake Barkley, May 6-7 (BPB); Murray, May 5 (MM); Dewey Lake, Warren County, April 17-18 (WM); Shippingport Island, May 19 and 31 (BPB, S, BBC) ; and Bernheim Forest in March (no date given — A. Coomes fide BPB). Highest count was 11 at Murray (MM). Green-backed Herons were late in arriving with the earliest at Madisonville on April 11 (JH). Numbers were low with the exception of the 17 at Cave Run Lake, May 8 (BA). Black-crowned Night Herons returned to Shippingport Island on March 26 with a high count of 123 on May 16 (LR) ; one hundred fifty at the Falls of the Ohio, May 22 (BPB); also observed at Lexington Reservoir (BA). The five 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 42 reports of Yellow-crowned Night Herons included six birds at Lexington (BA), five at Shippingport Island, one at S.S., two at Reelfoot NWR (BPB) ; and one at the Falls of the Ohio (DN, P. Noble). Waterfowl — The waterfowl movement was in early March in most sections of the state ; marsh ducks, with the exception of the Blue-winged Teal, left early, while divers lingered a bit longer. A single Mute Swan was reported on a pond at Berea along 1-75 on April 6 (BA) and at S.S. from March 15-April 13 (BPB). The Greater White-fronted Goose which had been reported at Honker Lake previously was still present on April 14 (E. Ray), while 17 Snow Geese still lingered at Swan Lake, March 2, (BPB). The highest counts of marsh ducks included 100 Pintails between Bayou and Carrsville, Livingston County and at Swan Lake, March 1 and 2, respectively; over 300 Blue-winged Teal in Henderson and Union Coun¬ ties, 5 April; 100 Shovelers, 150 Gadwalls in Henderson County, 16 March; 100 American Wigeons at Swan Lake, March 2 (BPB) and at Lexington Reservoir, March 21 (BA). Fairly large groups of diving ducks included 100 Canvasbacks and 100 Redheads at Swan Lake, March 2 and 200 of the latter species in Livingston County, March 1 (BPB). There were 200 Lesser Scaups at Cave Run Lake, March 19 (BA) and 90 at Louisville in the Ohio River basin, March 26 (LR). A pair of Greater Scaups was present at Three Springs, Warren County, April 13 (WM). A Common Merganser in the Danville area was the “first since ’79” (FL). Hawks — No large migrating hawk flights were reported. Single Ospreys were reported at four locations: northeast corner of Shelbyville on May 8 (WB) ; Land Between the Lakes and at Paradise Steam Plant, April 6 (DN, BBC) ; Falls of the Ohio, April 13, 22, 28 and May 6 (BPB). Three Mississippi Kites were observed in Hickman County, May 7 (BPB with J. T. Erwin). A sub-adult Bald Eagle was noted at Cumberland Gap, March 17 (BA). Sharp-shinned Hawks were seen occasionally in Boone County with one at Boone Cliffs on May 17 (LMc) ; one in Shelbyville, May 9 (WB) ; one at Cumberland Gap, March 17, three on April 5 (BA). Few observers mentioned Cooper’s Hawks, but two were present through¬ out the period at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC) ; singles at Cumberland Gap, March 17 and April 4 (BA) and in Carroll County, May 24 (S, DS). Single Rough-legged Hawks were reported from Danville, February 22 and March 5 (FL, W. Kemper), Glasgow, March 22 (RS) and Clark County, March 24 (BA, A sub-adult Golden Eagle in Livingston County on March 1 was unusual (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). There were two sightings of adult Peregrine Falcons: one at Reelfoot NWR, April 20 (BPB) and at Louisville, May 3 (BPB and BBC). Rails through Coots — It was a good year for rails. A King Rail, two Virginia Rails and 10 Soras were flushed at S.S. on April 13 (BPB, BA, LR, C. Justice). Other Soras reported included several at Dewey Lake, May 4-10 (WM), one at Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County, May 8 and one found dead on the University of Kentucky Campus, April 23 (BA). A Common Moorhen returned to Lexington Reservoir, May 8 (BA) and six or more at S.S. on May 25 (BPB, D. Ebel). Fair numbers of American Coots were observed at Lake Pewee (JH) and approximately 1000 fed above the dam on Kentucky Lake, April 6 (BPB). Two small flocks of Sandhill Cranes were seen : one over Anderson County on March 21 and one over Owen County, March 23 (L. Andrews & M. Baggott fide BPB). 43 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Shorebirds — Due to the dry season the shorebird habitat and con¬ centrations were unevenly distributed. Bowling Green and Danville had unusually poor flights. A fair number of species were observed but num¬ bers, with few exceptions, were low. Black-bellied and Lesser Golden Plovers were in low numbers with three of the former as the high at the Falls of the Ohio, May 16 (DN, P. Noble) and in Fulton County (M. Bierly fide BPB). The Lesser Golden Plover arrived at Jonathan Creek, Marshall County, March 10 which established an early date (MM) ; three at the Falls of the Ohio, one in western Henderson County and a total of nine at Open Pond, Fulton County was the highest number reported (BPB). Semipalmated Plovers were widespread and were present from April 20 to May 24. Some of the more interesting sightings included eight at Clark Fish Hatchery, May 8 (BA), eleven at East Bend, May 10 (LMc), and 115 in scattered flocks in western Henderson County, May 6 (BPB). Greater Yellowlegs were later than usual with the earliest arrival on March 28 at Elk Creek, Hopkins County (JH), numbers were small, with the exception of 80 on April 13 in western Henderson County (BPB et al.). numbers of Lesser Yellowlegs were low except for those in Henderson and Fulton Counties, where scattered flocks totaled 145 and 325, respectively. Solitary Sandpipers began arriving on April 5 at East Bend (LMc) and in Fulton County (DN, BBC). Single Willets appeared at Kentucky Dam and at the Falls of the Ohio, April 19 and 28, respectively, with seven at the former location, May 7 (BPB and with J. T. Erwin at the latter location). The only Spotted Sandpipers reported were several at Dewey Lake, Three Springs (WM) and Pine Mountain State Park (BA). Ruddy Turnstones are rare in spring, but three to five were at the Falls of the Ohio from May 14-21 (DN, P. Noble, BPB), one still there, May 28 (LR) and one at Newburgh Dam, Henderson County, May 24 (BPB). The reports of Sanderlings at the Clark Fish Hatchery, May 8 (BA) and at Swan Lake, May 26 (BPB, D. Ebel) were noteworthy. Least and Semipalmated Sand¬ pipers were found in Fulton, Henderson, Boone and Jefferson Counties with counts of 60 of the former species and 75-100 of the latter in western Henderson County. Also, flocks of “peeps” (100-300) at the Falls of the Ohio, May 14 and 16, with the majority being Semipalmated (DN, BPB). A single White-rumped Sandpiper near Hamlin, Calloway County, May 3 was an interesting find (MM) as were the six at S.S. on May 6 (BPB), several at Lake #9, May 7 (BPB with J. T. Erwin) and four to eight at the Falls of the Ohio, May 16-23 (BPB). Pectoral Sandpipers were fairly widespread with the earliest reported at Jonathan Creek, March 10 with 50 birds (MM); one hundred in Fulton County, April 5 (DN, BBC), 350 there on April 20 (BPB) and 75 in Henderson County, May 6 (BPB), last reported at Danville, May 10 (FL, W. Kemper). Pectoral Sandpipers were also observed at Cave Run Lake, March 19 and in Fayette County, March 21 (BA). A flock of 100+ Dunlin at Jonathan Creek on March 10 was unusually early and established an early date (MM). Also, one to six Dunlins were present during April and May at S.S., Lake #9, Falls of the Ohio (BPB, BA, J. T. Erwin) and Clark Fish Hatchery (BA). Two — three Stilt Sandpipers were present at S.S., April 13 and May 6 (BA, BPB) : several at Lake #9, May 7 (BPB, J. T. Erwin) and five at the Falls of the Ohio, May 14 (BPB). A single Short-billed Dowitcher was heard and seen at Mayfair settling basins, Louisville, May 3, three at the Falls of the Ohio on May 16 and three heard and seen at S.S., May 6 (BPB). Also, one was reported at Reelfoot NWR, May 7 (BPB, J. T. Erwin). A dowitcher species was seen near Hamlin, May 3 (MM). Three 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 44 Long-billed Dowitchers were seen and heard at S.S. on April 5 and 13 ( BPB, and latter date with BA, LR, C. Justice); and one in breeding plumage at Reelfoot NWR, April 20 (BPB). Common Snipe were reported from March 28 with seven birds at Lentz’s Pond (LR) to May 10 in Grayson County (KC). Other sightings were in Fulton, Henderson (BPB), Boone (LMc) and Clark Counties (BA), with 60 to 100 birds in Henderson and Fulton Counties, respectively. A Wilson’s Phalarope at Hays Kennedy Park, Louisville on March 30 was unusually early (DN, J. Noonan) ; singles were also found at S.S., April 13 and at Reelfoot NWR, April 20 (BPB). The only American Woodcocks reported were singles at Eubank, March 4 (JE1) and at Lexington Reservoir, May 8 (BA). Gulls through Terns — In recent years Laughing Gulls have become more frequent visitors. Singles appeared at Smithland Dam, May 8 (BPB) and at the Falls of the Ohio, May 15-16 (LR) ; three to four at Kentucky Dam, May 25 (BPB, J. Robinson, D. Ebel) and five there, May 26 — a state record total (BPB, D. Ebel). An adult Franklin’s Gull showed up at Kentucky Dam, April 5 (DN, BBC) ; five there, May 7 (BPB, J. T. Erwin), one adult on May 25, two the following day (BPB, J. Robinson, D. Ebel) ; one on the Falls of the Ohio, May 22, two there on May 23 (LR) and one remained on May 24 (BPB). Bonaparte’s Gulls were reported from only four locations with the greatest concentration of 250 birds at Kentucky Dam, April 6 (BPB); thirty-five was the high count at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB), five still present at the latter location on May 4 (S, FS) and one at Kentucky Lake on May 7 (BPB). An adult Thayer’s Gull at the Falls of the Ohio, April 10-11 was quite late (BPB, DN on the latter date). A rather late Glaucous Gull was seen at Kentucky Dam, March 1 (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). A fairly early Caspian Tern appeared at the Falls of the Ohio, April 12 (DN) and numbers peaked at 3b on April 17 (BPB), one still there May 23 (BPB). Thirty Caspians were also noted at Lake Barkley, April 19, eight at Smithland Dam and two at Newburg Dam, May 6 (BPB). Few Common Terns were seen, but fair numbers of Forster’s were re¬ corded in western Kentucky with 40-45 at Kentucky Dam, April 19 (BPB). Two to ten Least Terns were recorded at Smithland Dam, Swan Lake and three locations in Fulton County, May 25-26, also two were present at the Falls of the Ohio, May 25-26 (BPB). Single Black Terns at Lake Barkley on May 6 and 25 were the only ones reported. Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — The only Black-billed Cuckoos re¬ ported were singles at the Clark Fish Hatchery, May 8 (BA) and near Union, Boone County, May 10 (LMc). Yellow-billed Cuckoos appeared to be scarce and came in late, recorded earliest at Shakertown, May 7 (BA). Two Barn Owls were seen frequently at Stanley, Daviess County (TS). Common Nighthawks were quite late and not reported until April 29 at Lexington (BA) and April 30 at Somerset (JE1). Whip-poor-will’s were scarce in the Owensboro area (RI). Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers appeared to be scarce; singles lingered at Burlington until May 4 (LMc) and in Grayson County on May 10 (fide KC). Downy Woodpeckers seemed to be in low numbers at Danville (FL). Flycatchers through Nuthatches — Single Alder Flycatchers were heard at Shippingport, May 22 (BPB) and at Perryville, May 24 — their first since 1976 (FL, W. Kemper); five to six at S.S., May 25 (BPB). 45 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Willow Flycatchers arived at Petersburg, Boone County and at Clark Fish Hatchery on May 8 (LMc and BA, respectively), several at S.S., May 25 (BPB) and at least 12 at Shipping-port Island, May 31 (S, BBC). A Great Crested Flycatcher in the Falls of the Rough area was ahead of schedule on March 19 (KC). The swallow migration was not exciting with low numbers of Purple Martins observed. Tree Swallows arrived on March 16 at S.S. (BPB) and 150 birds at the Falls of the Ohio, May 21 was the highest concentration reported (LR). Two flocks of Bank Swallows con¬ taining an estimated 400 birds were observed in Carroll County, May 24 (S, FS, DS). Cliff Swallows were not seen at Barren River Reservoir until April 16, but many present May 3 (WM), several groups totaling 160 were at bridges along Nolin and Rough Rivers in Grayson County, May 10 ( fide KC). Fish Crows were observed as far north as Columbus- Belmont State Park, March 31 (R. Cierello, C. Justice fide BPB); one at Hickman, April 5 (DN, BBC) ; pairs at Open Pond and Reelfoot NWR, Apri 20 (BPB). There were two Common Ravens observed at Cumberland Gap, April 4 (BA). Wrens through Shrikes — It was encouraging that Bewick’s Wrens were found at five locations: Glasgow (RS), Elizabethtown (GE), Lake Cumberland area (JE1), Wheatly in Owen County (LMc) and Grayson County (BPB). Single Marsh Wrens were seen at S.S., April 13 (BPB, LR, BA, C. Justice) and Reelfoot NWR, April 21 (BPB). Wood Thrushes were in low numbers this spring. Small flocks of Cedar Waxwings were observed in mid-April (m.ob.), but migration was heaviest on May 19 when about 1000 were present at Shippingport Island (BPB). Only a few Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from Boyle (FL) and Grayson Counties (KC). Vireos through Warblers — A single Bell’s Vireo was singing in McCracken County, May 28 (BPB, D. Ebel). A Solitary Vireo at Anchorage on April 6 was a day later than our local record (BM). A Philadelphia Vireo was observed in late April in Danville (W. Kemper fide FL). Warbler migration appeared to be delayed with the best movement during mid-May. Single Brewster’s hybrids were at Danville, May 10 (FL, W. Kemper), near Carrollton, May 24 (LMc) and a probable sighting in western Boone County, May 17 (LMc). Parula Warblers had arrived at Land Between the Lakes (DN, BBC) and at Reelfoot NWR, April 6 (BPB). A Worm-eating- Warbler at Mammoth Cave National Park on April 6 was fairly early (LR). Also, rather early was a Louisiana Waterthrush at Glasgow, March 22 (RS). Single Connecticut Warblers were present on Shippingport Island, May 19 and 21 and one to three at Surrey Hill Farm, Louisville, May 18-23 (BPB). A Wilson’s Warbler in Rockcastle County on May 31 provided a late Kentucky date (FL). The two Canada Warblers near Carrollton, May 24, were rather late stragglers (LMc). Tanagers through Finches — Single Rose-breasted Grosbeaks lingered until May 29 at Trailwood Lake, Shelby County (WB) and June 8 at Big Pond Sanctuary (KC). The occurrence of a Black-headed Grosbeak at Lexington in mid-April was exciting. The bird remained for several days (R. Morris, m. ob. ). Blue Grosbeaks were reported from five locations with the earliest at Eubank on May 1 (JE1). The rare Bachman’s Sparrow was heard near Hamlin, May 3, where it has been seen in previous years (MM). Fourteen Grasshopper Sparrows were observed at Masterson’s 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 46 Station Park, Lexington, April 27 (BA). Henslow’s Sparrows were heard in Caldwell County, May 6 and six males observed in Grayson County, May 8 (BPB). Bobolinks arrived in low numbers. A single Brewer’s Black¬ bird was seen at Danville on March 8 (FL). The sighting of an Orchard Oriole at Land Between the Lakes on April 6 established an early date (DN, BBC). Northern Orioles were more common at Danville than for some years (FL). Many of the Purple Finches left central Kentucky on March 29 when a warm front moved into the area, but some were still present on May 10 in Boone County (LMc). Pine Siskins were widespread in early to mid-May (m.ob.), but two birds were still present at Big Pond Sanctuary, June 2 (KC). There was some movement of Evening Grosbeaks the latter part of April and early May, particularly at Madisonville (JH) and Burlington (LMc) ; at least 50 or more present at Big Pond Sanctuary, April 27-28 (KOS). The writer wishes to thank the many people who contributed notes and records for this Spring Migration Report. Comments on the Nesting Season (June and July) should be mailed no later than August 5. Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), W. H. Brown (WB), Kathryn Clay (KC), George Elliott (GE), Jackie Elmore (JE1), James W. Hancock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Wayne Mason (WM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), R. Morris (RM), Doxie Noonan (DN), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Lene Rauth (LR), Anne L. Stamm (S), Frederick W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Thomas Stevenson (TS), D. Summerfield (DS), Other abbreviations — Beckham Bird Club (BBC), Kentucky Ornithological Society (KOS), Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge (Reelfoot NWR), Sauer- heber Unit of Sloughs Wildlife Management Area (S.S.), many observers (m.ob.) . — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY — 1986 Lynda Andrews and James Durell A new record number of bald eagles (234) was reported on the 1986 census. January 4 was the target date within a time frame of January 2-16. This census was done in conjunction with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Waterfowl census. The National Wildlife Federation now records only the counts at Ballard County, Lake Barkley and Dale Hollow, rather than the full state census. Weather during the period was clear and seasonably warm. Of the 234 bald eagles, 148 were mature and 86 (37%) were immature. This count was 64% above last year’s total and 6% above the previous record of 1984. Reelfoot Lake was partly frozen over. The large increases on the Mississippi and lower Ohio Rivers probably included Reelfoot eagles seeking open water. Four adult golden eagles were reported below Wolf Creek Dam, and three adults and two immatures at Ballard County 47 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Waterfowl area. The Non-game crew was unable to find those at Ballard County a week later. Again no eagles were reported from Obion and Mayfield Creek Bottoms nor the lakes in the Barlow Bottoms near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. These were very productive in 1984. Green River Lake and the Kentucky portion of Dale Hollow also had significant increases. Lake Cumberland had a modest increase, still below the record 1984 count. The Mississippi River count was still far below the 72 seen in 1984. Table I summarizes the 1986 census, with some earlier high records. TABLE I — Kentucky Bald Eagle Census, January 2-16, 1986, with some earlier high counts. Earlier 1986 | records ROUTE Ad. Imm. Total High Year Land Between the Lakes 25 13 38 | 54 1984 Mississippi River 31 15 46 | 72 1984 Ohio River, Wickliffe to north Livingston Co. (Carrsville) * 55 34 89 47 1984 Ohio River, Carrsville-Owensboro 4 2 6 7 1984 Ohio River, Battletown-Louisville 1 4 5 Green River Lake 6 6 12 1 6 1985 Dale Hollow, Kentucky portion 9 7 16 12 1983 Lake Cumberland 7 1 8 14? 1983 Cumberland R., dam to Burkesville* 7 8 Cave Run Lake 2 1 3 7 1984 Laurel Lake 1 1 2 9 1985 Martin’s Fork 2 2 I o Totals 148 86 234 *Golden eagles were reported. Twenty-one parties reported other hawks. Counts for 1985 are in paren¬ thesis: American Kestrel 103(105); Redtailed 68(76); Marsh hawk 7(5); Rough-legged 3(1); Red shouldered 3(2); Sharp-shinned 2(1); Cooper’s 3(3); Osprey 0(3); unidentified hawks 2(2). There were 114 participants in 36 parties. They represented the Ken¬ tucky Ornithological Society, federal and state Fish and Wildlife agencies, TVA, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Audubon Society and Owensboro Area Museum. Space does not permit listing these individuals, but their help is gratefully acknowledged, and solicited next year. — Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Frankfort, 40601 — Kentucky Ornithological Society, 1027 Algonquin, Frankfort 40601 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 48 KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOCxICAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP ROLL The K.O.S. membership roll that follows is current through July 1986. Everyone appreciates having their name spelled correctly and I apologize now for any that are misspelled. This is a great opportunity to ensure that your name will be spelled correctly in the future. Please forward any cor¬ rections of names, addresses, membership status, etc. to the editor. Also, let the editor know if you prefer to use a nickname. Thank you. L Life Member C Contributing Member F Family Member S Student Member All Others Regular Members L Abell, Mrs. Irvin, Jr., Mockingbird Valley Rd., Louisville 40207 L Adams, Dr. Garrett, 2975 Lexington Rd., Louisville 40206 Alcock, W. C., 518 Dogwood Dr., Danville, 40422 F Andres, Brad, 506 Springhill Dr., Lexington 40503 Andrews, Lynda, 903 Leawood Dr., Apt. #5, Frankfort 40601 Arnold, Aline, 153 Kennedy Rd., Paducah 42001 Bagian, Mrs. Edward, 302 Santee Path, Louisville 40207 C Ball, Steve, 108 Elm St., Henderson 42420 Barbour, Dr. Roger W., 4880 Tates Creek Pike, Lexington 40503 Bates, Ralph R., 4025 Ormand Rd., Louisville 40207 F Bauer, Mr. and Mrs. William H., 119 N. Birchwood Ave., Louisville 40206 Beck, Dorothy, 532 S. Ft. Thomas Ave., Ft. Thomas 41075 F Bell, Jane and Patricia, 306 Fairlawn Rd., Louisville 40207 Bellamy, Betty M., 2924 Curran Rd., Louisville 40205 Bellamy, Brenda, 11810 Victory School House Rd., Union 41091 Belt, Newton O., Blandville 42026 F Bixler, Mr. and Mrs. Ray, 3912 Chenoweth Run Rd., Louisville 40299 Black, Mrs. Lois, 1307 Nassau Ave., Owensboro 42301 F Blackburn, T. O., 1819 Mohawk Dr., Owensboro 42301 F Blahnik, Mr. and Mrs. Roland, 804 River Crest Dr., Louisville 40206 Bloch, Dr. Austin, 2116 Douglass Blvd., Louisville 40206 Bonney, Stephen A., 445 South Ashland Ave., B26, Lexington 40502 Boone, Karen Ann, 425 S. Hubbards Ln. 413, Louisville 40207 C Booth, Mrs. Morey, 7 Ridgeway Sq., 4112 Massie Ave., Louisville 40207 Borders, Melanie, 1121 Ellison Ave., Louisville 40204 F Bowne, Mr. and Mrs. Edward, 1321 Woodmere Ln., Owensboro 42301 F Bray, Mr. and Mrs. James, 5350 Rolling-wood Trail, Louisville 40214 Brown, Mike, Rt. 2, Box 57D, Philpot 42366 F Brown, Robert and Judith Jones, 47 Sterling Rd., Louisville 40220 Brown, William H., 527V2 Main St., Shelbyville 40065 Bryant, Mrs. Glen W., 527 Ridgewood Rd., Louisville 40207 Burdine, Lola, 1840 Gresham Rd., Louisville 40205 F Burns, Mr. and Mrs. G. L., 5742 Athens-Walnut Hill, Lexington 40511 Burns, Roland Louis, UPO Box 749, MSU, Morehead 40351 Busroe, Fred, Rt. 4 Green Valley Acres, Morehead 40351 L 49 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Byrd, Una A., Rt. 1, Falls of the Rough 40119 C Caddell, Mrs. Damon, 203 Cambridge Dr., Paducah 42201 Cain, Mrs. Altha N., 1117 Hilliard Ave., Louisville 40204 C Caldwell, Dr. Harry G., Box 277, Danville 40422 Callahan, John, 5712 Renada Dr., Crestwood 40014 C Callahan, Yvonne, 3003 Melrose South, Jeffersontown 40299 CF Caminiti, Joe and Kathy, Rt. 2, Box 44D, Hopewell Dr., Crittenden 41030 Caruso, Joseph T., 1203 Ekin Ave., New Albany, IN 47150 F Cary, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur, 4001 Napanee Rd., Louisville 40207 L Cassell, Richard, 4003 Poplar Level Rd., Louisville 40213 C Chambers, Happy, P.O. Box 47, Hazel 42049 L Cheek, John A. II, Box 229, Penny Farms, FL 32079 Chenault, Tandy P., 4003 Winchester Rd., Mt. Sterling 40353 Chenault, William T., 4003 Winchester Rd., Mt. Sterling 40353 C Chiles, James D., Rt. 1, Kings Chapel Rd., Cadiz 42211 F Clay, Dr. and Mrs. Herbert L., 214 Sequoia Rd., Louisville 40207 F Cleaver, Dan, 853 Evergreen, Calvert City 42029 C Cochran, Mrs. Archibald, 25 Stone Bridge Rd., Louisville 40207 Colburn, Mr. Ralph, 614 Wallace Ave., Louisville 40207 C Cole, Mrs. W. R., Jr., 1746 Sulgrave Rd., Louisville 40205 Coleman, Mrs. R. M., 1701 N.W. 24th St., Gainsville, FL 32605 Conley, Galen, DMD, P.O. Box 730, Sandy Hook 41171 F Conner, Glen, 9216 Holland Rd., Scottsville 42164 F Conrad, Mr. and Mrs. E. J., Rt. 2, Box 31, Gilbertsville 42044 Cooper, Ms. Mildred, 102 Marshall Dr., Apt. 2, Louisville 40207 Cornett, Manton R., 1637 Thames Dr., Lexington 40502 Coskren, Dennis T., 1 N. Main St., Apt. C, Derry, NH 03038 Crabtree, George F., 205 Cherokee Vista, Louisville 40204 L Croft, Joseph, Ravens Croft, Rt. 1, Box 756, Scottsville, VA 24590 F Crosby, Dr. and Mrs. Richard, H.C. 70, Box 465, Prestonburg 41653 L Crowell, Mrs. Fred C., Rt. 1, Box 346A, Lanesville, IN 47136 F Cruse, Mr. and Mrs. Randall, Rt. 4, Forest Hill, Hodgenville 42748 F Curlin, Candy, 185 North Bellaire, Louisville 40206 C Curtis, Ted, Rt. 2, Whitesville 42378 L Cypert, Eugene, 1006 Darling Ave., Wayeross, GA 31501 L Cypert, Mrs. Eugene, 1006 Darling Ave., Wayeross, GA 31501 Czurles, Sister Casimir, Mount St, Joseph Convent, Maple Mount 42356 Dahl, Wayne, 7706 Dominique Dr., Louisville 40228 Danak, Dorothy L., 2015 Grasmere, Louisville 40205 L Daubard, Mrs. Mary Louis, 616 Rudy Ln., Louisville 40207 C Day, Joan, 106 Travois Rd., Louisville 40205 F Derrick, David, 1916 Spring Dr., Louisville 40205 Doolittle, Mrs. William B., 2215 Village Dr., Louisville 40205 Drake, Phillip T., Rt. 3, Hickman 42050 L Dubke, Kenneth H., 8139 Roy Ln., Coltewah, TN 37363 F Dunn, Mr. and Mrs. Rex, 1801 Trevilian Way, Louisville 40205 L Durell, James, 1027 Algonquin Trail, Frankfort 40601 Dutton, David, P.O. Box 95, Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave 42259 Eaden, Mr. and Mrs. Tony, Rt. 4, Utica 42376 Ebel, Diane, 211 Eastern Pkwy., Apt. 5, Louisville 40204 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 50 S Eberhardt, Roger, 300 N. 8th St., Murray 42071 Eff, Jane, 125 Pennsylvania Ave., Louisville 40207 Egerton, Graham, P.O. Box 865, Elizabethtown 42701 Elam, Betty Lou, 309 Larkwood Dr., Lexington 40509 F Elam, Mrs. Garry, 515 Main St., West Liberty 41472 Eldred, Marshal P., 515 Club Ln., Louisville 40207 L Elliott, Charles, Dept, of Biological Science, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond 40475 Elliott, George, c/o Helmwood Pharmacy, 914 Dixie, Elizabethtown 42701 Ellis, Jeanne, Rt. 3, Rockport, IN 47635 F Elmore, Mr. and Mrs. Jackie B., Box 314A, Rt. 1, Eubank 42567 F Embry, Mr. and Mrs. Richard, Rt. 4, Box 193A, Shelbyville 40065 Erwin, Joe Tom, H.C. Box 152-5, New Concord 42076 Ewing, Niels O., 5607 Apache Rd., Louisville 40207 F Ferrell, Dr. Blaine R., Dept, of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green 42101 Fidao, Dr. Wendy L., 1409 Blue Vale Way, Louisville 40222 Figg, Arthur, 1040 Everett Ave., Apt. 3, Louisville 40204 C Finucane, Thomas W., 1434 Watauga St., Kingsport, IN 37664 F Fisher, Mrs. Stanley E., 2218 Edinborough Dr., Murray 42071 F Flynn, Mr. and Mrs. Michael B., 218 Shady Ln., Lexington 40503 Ford, James B., Box 808, Warsaw 41095 F Ford, Dr. and Mrs. Jerald M., 800 Rogers St., Ashland 41101 Ford, Joseph M., 3415 Marycrest W., Owensboro 42301 F Ford, Mr. and Mrs. R. Lee, Rt. 1, Box 63A, Falls of the Rough 40119 F Foster, Mr. and Mrs. Jack, Rt. 1, P.O. Box 296, Lewisport 42351 S Foster, Tobin, 210 S. Alta Ave., Danville 40422 Foster, Mrs. W. H., 234 Cedar Ln., Paducah 42001 L Frazer, Chastain L., Box 246, Marion 42064 L Fulkerson, Mrs. Samuel C., 1021 Watterson Trail, Louisville 40299 F Galbraith, Mr. and Mrs. Bill, 3728 Charter Oaks Dr., Louisville 40222 Galbraith, Ellen, 204 Iola Rd., Louisville 40207 Garst, Mrs. John, 1001 Glenridge Dr., Apt. 213, Louisville 40222 C Gillenwater, Mrs. James E., P.O. Box 526, Glasgow 42141 Gore, Janet, 1820 Lauderdale Rd., Louisville, 40205 Gorman, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick, 4300 Talahi Way, Louisville 40207 Greene, Dr. William C., Jr., P.O. Box 706, Sandy Hook 41171 Greenwell, Miss Mary Lydia, 2541 Griffith Ave., Owensboro 42301 Groneman, Ed., 516 Kyles Ln., Ft. Wright 41011 L Guthrie, Charles S., 1660 Normal Dr., Bowling Green 42101 S Haag, Wendell, 3449 Tisdale Court, Lexington 40503 CF Habermel, Mr. and Mrs. David B., 3415 Greenview Dr., New Albany, IN 47150 F Hahn, Mr. and Mrs. Horst, 4420 Lincoln Rd., Louisville 40220 L Hall, Dr. Sue, 1904 Lynn Way, Louisville 40222 Hancock, Dr. Hunter, 304 Leawood Dr., Lexington 40502 Hancock, Mrs. Hunter, 304 Leawood Dr., Lexington 40502 L Hancock, James W., Rt. 1, Box 49, Madisonville 42431 Hancock, Joyce A., Ph.D., 129 Coral Ave., Louisville 40206 Hankla, Scott, 934 Brookhaven Dr., Frankfort 40601 C Harker, George S., 10016 Prairie Dr., Valley Station 40272 f w 51 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Harlan, Clifford, 502 Cheskirk Place, Louisville 40243 Harm, Ray, Walking H Ranch, Sasabe Star Rt., Box 95A3, Tuscon, AR 85736 C Harned, Frederick, 515 Iola Rd., Louisville 40207 Hartung, Mrs. Bertha Ann, 925 Elm St., Henderson 42420 F Haswell, Mr. and Mrs. William, 2619 Drayton Dr., Louisville 40205 F Hawkins, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery, 6920 Mt. Vernon Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45227 F Hayden, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald, 212 Sage Rd., Louisville 40207 F Head, Mr. and Mrs. Robert W., Box 2438, Art Dept., Murray State University, Murray 42071 Heck, Mrs. Frank, 614 E. Main St., Danville 40422 F Hectorne, Dr. and Mrs. R. L., 2316 Village Dr., Louisville 40205 L Helfrieh, Eric, Rt. 3, RD 375N, Churubusco, IN 46723 C Henderson, Mrs. Sue, 4028 Leland Rd., Louisville 40207 F Hensel, Mr. and Mrs. Tony, 205 Blackburn Ave., Louisville 40206 C Hicks, Tom, 5304 Old Henderson Rd., Owensboro 42301 F Hill, Mr. and Mrs. James H., 4521 Fail-park Ave., Dayton, OH 45431 F Holding, Dr. and Mrs. Dennis, 3810 Old Westport Rd., Louisville 40031 Holstein, W. R., 3307 Pine Needle Ln., Louisville 40222 Homan, Marilyn, 3017 Brownsboro, Rd. 2, Louisville 40206 Hook, Mrs. O. F., Box 146, Prospect 40059 F Hopkin, Mr. and Mrs. Howard, 82 Warrior Rd., Louisville 40207 Howard, Barry, Box M, Cumberland 40823 Hughes, Henry J., Jr., 2826 Adams Ave., Ashland 41101 Hulvershorn, Tom K., 6014 Indianola, Indianapolis, IN 46220 Humphrey, John, 4002 Carpenter Dr. 11, Owensboro 42301 Hutchison, Bill, III, 360 Ridgeway Ave., Louisville 40207 F lies, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond, 2223 St. James Court, Owensboro 42301 L Jackson, Jerome, Dept, or Biological Sciences, Drawer Z, Mississippi State, MS 39762 F Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur F., 4910 Manslick Rd., Louisville 40216 F Jenkins, Mr. and Mrs. Stuart G., 1215 Tranquil Dr., Jeffersonville, IN 47130 S Johnson, Brian, 6916 Sparky Way, Louisville 40228 Johnson, Mrs. C. T., 1214 Summit Ave., Louisville 40204 Johnson, Mrs. Carolyn L., 12612 Hutton Dr., Walton 41094 F Johnson, George, Botany Dept., North Carolina State University, Box 7612, Raleigh, NC 27695 CF Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Howard M., 108 W. Brow-n St., Glasgow 42141 F Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Howard P., 905 Park Hills, Frankfort 40601 F Jones, Dr. and Mrs. Hunt B., 1371 Bardstown Rd., Louisville 40204 Jones, Jeffrey, Box 156, Bowling Green 42102 Jones, Mrs. Manion, 1623 Shady Ln., Louisville 40205 F Jones, Mr. and Mrs. Mike, 600 Sherwood, Bowling Green 42101 Julliard, Kell, 928 Lydia St., Louisville 40217 Karem, Kenneth L., 126 Crescent Ave., Louisville 40206 Katham, Clare, 3081 Cameo Ln., Cincinnati, OH 45239 Keller, Ruth C., Rt. 3, Box 72, Clarkson 42726 S Kelly, Peggy, 2838 Ashland Ave., Covington 41015 F Kemper, Mr. and Mrs. C. Wesley, Rt. 3, Box 242, Cadiz 42211 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 52 Kemper, William, 412 N. Maple Ave., Danville 40422 C Kennedy, Mrs. Edward T., 5664 Beaver Rd., Union 41091 L Kingsolver, Dr. Wendell R., Rt. 2, Carlisle 40311 L Kingsolver, Mrs. Virginia, Rt. 1, Carlisle 40311 Kirkland, L. B., 8757 Williams Ln., Lexington 40515 Kistler, Steve, Rt. 3, Box 114-A, Munfordville 42765 L Kleen, Vernon M., Rt. 2, Athens, IL 62613 F Knight, Joseph O., Jr., 5701 Coach Gate Wynde, Louisville 40222 Knight, Rick, 804 N. Hills Dr., Johnson City, TN 37601 Knopf, Doug, 711 Hollow Trace, Shelbyville 40065 L Korfhage, Harriet A., 2001 Glenview Ave., Louisville 40222 Kornman, Lewis E., Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rt. 4, Morehead 40351 Kozee, Ercel, Willard 41181 F Kramer, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond S., 306 W. Legion Blvd., Owensboro 42301 L Krieger, Mrs. William, 130 Maple Ave., Haworth, NJ 07641 Kruger, Helen, 6706 Fegenbush Ln., Louisville 40228 C Krull, Frank H., 418 LaFontenay Ct., Louisville 40223 F Krull, Mr. and Mrs. Frank X., 7304 Shadwell Ln., Prospect 40059 C Krull, John K., 1108 Whetstone Day, Louisville 40223 CF Lacy, Mr. and Mrs. Don, 2809 Aldersgate, Owensboro 42301 Lamb, Mrs. Doris, 124 S. Hite Ave., Louisville 40206 C Larson, Dr. Edwin R., Jr., 871 Clifton Crest Terrace, Cincinnati, OH 45220 Lashbrook, Mrs. Emogene, 120 E. 20th St., Owensboro 42301 L Lawrence, Col. Austin R., 3301 Patrick Henry Dr., Falls Church, VA 22044 F Lawson, Mr. and Mrs. Sam, Red Bird Mission, H.C. 69, Box 575 Beverly 40913 Leedam, Sarah, P.O. Box 1194, Murray 42071 Leedam, Sam, P.O. Box 1194, Murray 42071 F Leggett, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth, P.O. Box 1609, Dyersburg, TN 38025 C Lehman, Robert G., MD, 501 Ridgewood Rd., Louisville 40207 L Lemons, John W., 104 Loftus Dr., Hopkinsville 42240 L Lemons, Mrs. John W., 104 Loftus Dr., Hopkinsville 42240 F Lewis, Jerry, 230 S. Sunset Ave., Clarksville, IN 47130 F Lock, Mr. and Mrs. Larry, 5713 Lentzier Trace, Jeffersonville, IN 47130 Lodato, Michael J., 925 Park Plaza Dr., Evansville, IN 47715 Loetscher, Dr. Frederick W., Jr., 2064 Cardinal Dr., Danville 40422 Long, Earl D., 312 N. First St., Villa Grove, IL 61956 Love, Timothy, 241 Haldeman 2, Louisville 40206 McComb, William, Dept, of Forestry, 205 Poe Cooper Bldg., University of Kentucky, Lexington 40546 F McConnell, Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth P., 705 Victoria Place, Louisville 40207 F McCormick, Dr. and Mrs. John, 134 N. Hite, Louisville 40206 McDevitt, Mrs. Coleman, 915 Sycamore St., Murray 42071 Me Kee, Steven M., 1594 Kings Corner Rd., Lexington, OH 44904 CF McKinley, Mrs. Colleen and Mr. Eric Blow, 27 Thixton Ln., Louisville 40229 53 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 C McKinley, Dr. George G., 106 Central Ave., P.O. Box Drawer B, Glasgow 42141 L McNeely, Lee K., Box 463, Burlington 41005 Marion, Mrs. H. P., 7402 Lanfair Dr., Louisville 40222 Martin, Mrs. Francis W., 2114 Starmont, Louisville 40207 Martin, Jerry W., MD, 1167 31W Bypass, Bowling Green 42101 Martin, Mrs. Spencer F., 1709 Clayton Rd., Louisville 40205 Mason, Wayne, 925 Park St., Bowling Green 42101 Mastrangelo, Philip, 765 Rebecca Dr., Lexington 40502 Maxon, Mrs. Betty, 1076 Spurlock Ln., Nicholasville 40356 Mayfield, A1 H., 2618 Duke Dr., Plaza Square Apt. 5-A, Owensboro ' 42301 F Mayfield, Mr. and Mrs. James, 3044 Nandina Dr., Louisville 40220 Meier, Evelyn, 38 Narwood Dr., Louisville 40299 L Mengel, Dr. Robert M., Museum of Natural History, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66044 Meriwether, B. Corbin, 267 N. 38th St., P.O. Box 7032, Paducah 42002 F Metzger, Mr. and Mrs. Ted R., 3107 Dunlieth Ct., Louisville 40222 Meyer, Berl, 8608 Garydon Dr., Fern Creek 40291 Miller, Dr. Michael G., Rt. 2, Box 114-A, Murray 42071 Mitchell, Mrs. Thomas K., 3209 Beals Branch Rd., Louisville 40206 Monroe, Mrs. Burt L., Sr., 161 Thierman Ln., Louisville 40207 F Monroe, Dr. and Mrs. Burt, Jr., Dept, of Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville 40208 F Moore, Mr. and Mrs. Harold V., 1031 Nutwood Ave., Bowling Green 42101 C Moremen, Frances, 2510 Tophill Rd., Louisville 40206 Morford, Dr. Jack T., Rt. 4, Carlisle 40311 F Moriaty, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin, 2017 Bainbridge Rd., Louisville 40207 F Morgan, Mr. and Mrs. Allen F., 1701 Continental Dr., Madisonville 42431 L Morris, Robert L., 219 Taylor Dr., Lexington 40505 Moss, Mrs. Ronald, 875 Hiawatha Dr., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 Mountjoy, Mrs. J. B., Rt. 4, Box 941, Williamsburg 40769 C Mowery, Carl E., 1406 Vine St., Murray 42071 Mudd, Mrs. Charles, 4107 Ciremos Terrace, Louisville 40222 Muntan, Mrs. J. V., 3216 Bon Air, Louisville 40220 Needham, Mark, 5402 Apache Rd., Louisville 40207 Nelson, Deloris H., 2057 Greentree Dr., Richmond 40475 F Nelson, Lee K., 6651 U.S. 431, Owensboro 42301 S Nichols, Barry S., 7004 Ethan Allen Way, Louisville 40272 Nicholson, Debbie, 2008 Evergreen Rd., Louisville 40223 F Niehoff, P. Tim and Mary Noel, Mrs. Joan N., 645 Foxfire Rd., Elizabethtown 42701 Noonan, Doxie, Box 22804, Louisville 40222 Noonan, Dr. Robert, 721 Executive Prk., Louisville 40207 F Olsen, Mr. and Mrs. Humphrey, 205 S. Ninth St., Williamsburg 40769 Osborn, Virginia E., 1023 Parkway Dr., Louisville 40217 Owens, Mrs. Sue, 715 W. 52nd St., Indianapolis, IN 46208 F Palmer-Ball, Mr. and Mrs. Brainard, Sr., 8207 Old Westport Rd., Louisville 40222 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 54 C Pardue, Leonard, 319 Pleasant View Ave., Louisville 40206 Parks, Phyllis, 13 Riviera Apts., Lovers Lane, Bowling Green 42101 F Partin, Foley, Box 182 Star Rt., Clearfield 40313 F Pasikowski, Mr. and Mrs. James C., 317 Iola Rd., Louisville 40207 Patrick, Robert F., 2222 Village Dr., Louisville 40205 F Feak, Dr. and Mrs. William P., 19 Eastover Ct., Louisville 40206 L Peake, Dr. Richard M., P.O. Box 28, Wise, VA 24293 Peavler, Larry, 5531 Fenmore Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46208 Pearcy, Nancy Lee, 2346 Village Dr., Louisville 40205 Peil, Miss Dorothy, 178 Edgewood Way, Louisville 40243 Perkins, William T., 3720 Marseille Dr., Owensboro 42301 Peterson, Dr. Clell T., 901 N. 18th St., Murray 42071 L Pettingill, Dr. Olin Sewell, Jr., Wayne, MA 04284 Pfingst, Mrs. Harry A., 199 Westwind Rd., Louisville 40207 L Pike, Mrs. Robert L., 2143 Goldsmith Ln., Louisville 40218 Pike, Robert L., 2143 Goldsmith Ln., Louisville 40218 Pitts, Dr. David, Biology Dept., University of Tennessee at Martin, Martin, TN 38237 ' Porter, Mrs. Edwin, 1820 Evergreen Rd., Anchorage 40223 Porter, Joyce, P.O. Box 555, Falls of the Rough 40119 Poundstone, Mrs. Bruce, 130 Hamilton Prk., Lexington 40504 L Powell, A. T., Jr., Rt. 1, Maceo 42355 L Powell, Mrs. A. L., Jr., Rt. 1, Maceo 42355 Prather, Kerry, Rt. 2, Box 1228, Frankfort 40601 Prezewloeki, Robert, 553 E. Main St., Bowling Green 42101 Radzelovage, Rosana, 2224 Fairview Dr., Owensboro 42301 Rae, Tom, 220 Thacker Dr., Wilmore 40390 L Raleigh, Glenn R., 2504 Larkin Rd. A-ll, Lexington 40503 F Rambo, Thomas C., Northern Kentucky University, Dept, of Biological Sciences, Highland Heights 41076 Ramsey, Anne, Rt. 2, Box 524, Mt. Vernon 40456 Rauth, Mrs. Lena, 106 E. Maple Ct., Clarksville, IN 47130 Reece, Alfred M., Jr., 742 Montclair Dr., Lexington 40502 Reed, C. W., 8703 Hickory Ct., Louisville 40222 F Richardson, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, 161 N. Bellair Ave., Louisville 40207 Richardson, Mrs. Nancy E., Rt. 3, Box 279, Henderson 42420 F Ricketts, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur, 3762 Sherwood Dr., Flint, MI 48503 Rigli, Joseph C., 6877 C. Rd., 14, Ft. Morgan, CO 80701 C Ritchison, Gary, Dept, of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond 40475 Roberts, Edward, 204 Wyckcluff Dr., Otisco, IN 47163 Roberts, Waldon, 9600 Fern Creek Rd., Louisville 40291 Robertson, Richard R. Phil, Rt. 1, Box 26-B, Brownstown, IN 47220 Robinson, Mrs. Ann, 207 Elizabeth St., Elizabethtown 42701 Robinson, Mrs. John, 2316 Bonnycastle Ave., Louisville 40205 Robinson, Mark, 3501 Pimlico Pkwy. 48, Lexington 40502 Robinson, Mrs. Vera, 3501 Pimlico Pkwy. 48, Lexington 40502 Roca, Phillipe, 2141 Oleander Dr., Lexington 40503 L Rommel, Mrs. Virginia, 134 N. Peterson, Louisville 40206 F Rowe, Dr. and Mrs. Richard, 206 S. Ninth St., Williamsburg 40769 Rowe, William C., 9033 Big Bend, St. Louis, MO 63119 Rowland, Robert E., Rt. 1, Box 281-B, Princeton 42445 Royer, Lawrence, 235 S. 900 West, Cedar City, UT 84720 55 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Rust, Delberth, 885 North St., Columbus, IN 47201 Rutledge, C. E., 234 Kelly Dr., Glasgow 42141 Sandlin, Dr. Dennis, P.O. Box 854, Hazard 41701 L Schneider, Miss Evelyn J., 2525 Broadmeade Rd., Louisville 40205 Sehoettler, Frank W., 180 Edgewood Dr., Louisville 40243 Schulte, Carmen, 6566 Camp Ernst Rd., Burlington 41005 Schultz, Carl J., 501 Old Stone Ln., Louisville 40207 Schuster, Mary, 2215 Wendell Ave., Louisville 40205 L Schutte, Helga, 11 Green Hill, 3017 Brownsboro Rd., Louisville 40206 Scott, Pat, 40 Highway Dr., Walton 41094 F Selvidge, Mr. and Mrs. Roger, 904 North Dr., Hopkinsville 42240 L Shadowen, Dr. Herbert E., 1927 Cedar Ridge Rd., Bowling Green 42101 F Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. Francis P., 3021 Eagle Pass, Louisville 40217 Short, Mrs. Eugene, 1956 Eastview Ave., Louisville 40205 Simmons, Mrs. Thomas, 1400 Willow Apt. 2108, Louisville 40204 Slack, Miss Mabel, 1004 Everett Ave., Louisville 40204 Slucher, Richard, 6206 Scottwood Dr., Louisville 40258 St. Clair, Doralee, Falls of the Rough 40119 Smith, Alice Jane, 816 W. 2nd St., Apt. 1, Madison, IN 47250 L Smith, Lawrence D., 7010 Bearcreek Dr. B-4, Louisville 40207 S Smith, Tony, 6909 Sparky Way, Louisville 40228 L Smith, Miss Virginia, 19687 Northridge Dr., Northville, MI 48167 C Smith, W. Virginia, 2224 Waterdale Terrace, Louisville 40205 F Soloski, Mr. and Mrs. Edward J., 2219 Riverside Dr., Dayton OH 45405 C Spalding, Mrs. Peter, Jr., 3726 Fairway Ln., Louisville 40207 Spencer, Dr. Donnie, P.O. Box 1129, Hazard 41701 Stamm, F. W., 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222 L Stamm, Mrs. F. W., 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222 CF Starr, Dr. and Mrs. Russell, Rt. 7, Glasgow 42141 F Steilberg, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur, P.O. Box 72361, Valley Station 40272 Stephens, Tom, 1884 Hidden Springs, Burlington 41005 CF Stevenson, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E., P.O. Box 7, Stanley 42375 Stewart, Mrs. Elsie P., 2064 Sherwood, Louisville 40205 Stickley, Allen R., Jr., 1715 Karen Circle, Bowling Green 42101 Stokes, Mrs. Stanley T., Rt. 2, Cadiz 42211 L Straughan, Dr. J. Marion, Box 856, Wise, VA 24293 F Sullivan, Mr. and Mrs. James F., 2332 Manchester Rd., Louisville 40205 Summerfield, Donald P., 9910 Prairie Dr., Valley Station 40272 F Susie, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred G., 3105 Haddon Rd., Louisville 40222 Sutton, E. Marie, 2634 Westmoreland Rd., Lexington 40511 Taylor, Dorothy, 306 S. Evergreen Rd., Louisville 40243 C Tenlloor, Joan, 1350 S. 6th St., Louisville 40208 F Thacker, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph, Sr., 1738 Freeman Ave., Owensboro 42301 F Theiss, Dr. and Mrs. Chester, 3420 Nandina Dr., Louisville 40222 L Thomas, Mrs. Ben Allen, Chenoweth Farm, Shelbyville 40065 L Thomas, Dr. Betty B., 2317 Village Dr., Louisville 40205 Thompson, Patricia, CPO 1850, Berea 40404 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 56 L Thompson, Di\ Pete, Moore 235, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond 40475 L Trapp, John L., Box 117, Galien, MI 49113 S Trent, Aron T., Rt. 6, Woodand Hills, Abingdon, VA 24210 L Tucker, William T., 61 Main St., Kingston, NH 03848 F Uterhart, Dr. and Mrs. Andrew, 467 Stratford Dr., Lexington 40503 F Vail, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Thorne, 3920 Altwood Ct., Anchorage 40223 VanStockum, Ronald R., Jr., 539 W. Market, Suite 200, Louisville 40202 S Vincent, John B., Apt. 22, Bartvilla Apts., 2307 E. 2nd St., Bloomington, IN 47401 Voit, Betty E., 600 Wataga Dr., Louisville 40206 Wareham, Patricia, 1415 Goddard Ave., Louisville 40204 F Washburn, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen, 1231 Bardstown Rd. 5, Louisville 40204 Wasielewski, Sally, 621 Strafford Dr., Lexington 40503 Webb, Larry W., 10730 Barren River Rd., Bowling Green 42101 CF Wedekind, Mr. and Mrs. Carl, 648 Upland Rd., Louisville 40206 Wells, Glen R., Midway Junior College, Midway 40347 C Wells, Mrs. Herbert, Riverside Dr., West Liberty 41472 F West, Bonnie, Rt. 1, Hanson 42413 Westerman, Albert, 715 Bellaire Ave., Lexington 40508 Wheeler, Mrs. Joy, 531 Hampton Ln., Townson, MD 21204 L Whitt, Prof. A. L., Dept, of Biology, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond 40475 F Wigglesworth, Mr. and Mrs. William, Box 336, Cynthiana 41031 Wiley, Dr. R. Haven, Jr., 102 Keith Rd., Carrboro, NC 27510 F Wilhelmi, Mr. and Mrs. Keith, 8502 Staghorn Dr., Louisville 40222 C Williams, James, 480 Seeley Dr., Lexington 40502 Williams, Judith, Rt. 1, Box 123D, Falls of the Rough 40119 L Williams, Morris D., Box 167 Rt. 5, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464 F Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Ed., 1220 S. Ky. 279-S, Owensboro 42301 Wilson, Mrs. F. Eugene, 5 Parkview Dr., Bowling Green 42101 F Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Montelle, Rt. 1, Box 227, Leitchfield 42754 C Wimsatt, Mrs. James, 1717 Clayton Rd., Louisville 40205 C Womak, Mrs. Joie R., 9211 Preston Hwy., Louisville 40229 F Worthington, Charles, 1019 Worthington Rd., Owensboro 42301 Woolridge, Miss Julia, 846 Milton St., Louisville 40217 L Wright, Miss Audrey, 1312 Hepburn Ave., Louisville 40204 Young, John B., Rt. 3, Bedford 40006 L Young, Faul G., MD, 239 S. Hanover Ave., Lexington 40502 L Zimmerman, Herbert M., 1363 Tyler Park Dr., Louisville 40204 Zollner, Raymond J., 3216 Dogwood Dr., Louisville 40220 C Zurcher, Mrs. Helen P., 178 Edgewood Way, Louisville 40243 LIBRARIES, COLLEGES, CLUBS, ETC. Beechmont Garden Club, c/o Louise Pile, 6804 Homestead Dr., Louisville, KY 40214 Bernheim Forest Nature Center, Bernheim Forest, Clermont, KY 40110 57 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Louisiana State University, Library - Serials Dept., Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Aquisitions Division, Albert R. Mann Library, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 U.S. Dept, of Interior 116202, Office of Library Serv., Serial Branch, Washington, D.C. 20240 Louisville Free Public Library, 4th and York Sts., Louisville, KY Serials Division, Ohio State University Library, 1858 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43210 Periodicals/Record Clerk, Morris Library, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, IL 62901 Camden-Carroll Library, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 T. V.A., Norris Branch Library, Norris, TN 37826 Biology Dept., 101 Burrill Hall, 407 S. Goodwin Ave., University of Illinois, Serials Dept., Urbana, IL 61801 Murray State Library, Periodicals Dept., Murray State University, Murray, KY 42071 Lincoln Memorial, University Library, Harrogate, TN 37752 Serials Unit, Purdue University Libraries, West Lafayette, IN 47907 Crabbe Library Periodicals Div., Central Serials, Eastern Kentucky Uni¬ versity, Richmond, KY 40475 Memorial Library - Serials, University of Wisconsin, 728 State St., Madi¬ son, WI 53706 Helm Craven Library, Serials Dept., Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY 42101 Corps of Engineers, Carr Fork Lake, General Delivery, Sassafras, KY 41759 British Library, Document Supply Center, Serials Acquisitions, Boston Spa-Yorks LS 23 7BQ, England U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Ky. Research Station, 334 15th St., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Library Nerriam Lab., U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Patuxent Wildlife Reserve, Laurel, MD 20708 Science Library, E-25-13 Young Hall, c/o Grace Doherty Library, Centre College, Danville, KY 40422 The Library-Serials Dept., Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 Kentucky Dept, of Libraries, Periodical Section, Box 537, Frankfort, KY 40602 Serials Technical Service, Mitchell Memorial Library, Mississippi State University, MI 39762 NY State Labrary-Ser. Cont., Cultural Education Center, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12230 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 58 NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. FALL MEETING The K.O.S. Fall Meeting will be held 3-5 October at Kenlake State Park. Mark your calendar now, make your reservations soon and get ready for some good birding. Anyone who would like to share unusual birding experiences or research findings at the Friday evening meeting should con¬ tact Jim William, Program Chairman, 480 Seeley Dr., Lexington 40502. ADDITIONS TO OUR LIFE MEMBERSHIP ROSTER We are pleased to welcome the following members to our growing company of Life Members. These individoals have joined as Life Members since the publication of our 1982 membership roll. They are: Mrs. Irvin Abell, Louisville; Dr. Garrett Adams, Louisville; Fred Busroe, Morehead; Charles Elliott, Richmond; Katherine Fulkerson, Louisville, Dr. Sue Hall, Louisville, Eric Helfrich, Churubusco, Indiana, Harriet A. Korfhage, Louisville; Dr. Richard Peake, Wise, Virginia; Glenn Raleigh, Lexington; Dr. J. Marion Staughan, Wise, Virginia; Dr. Betty Thomas, Shelbyville; William Tucker, Kingston, New Hampshire; and Herbert Zimmerman, Louisville. We are again reminded of what the late Dr. Gordon Wilson, founder of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, once said: “It is always a mark of faith in the purpose and in the future of our society when someone becomes a Life Member; all of us feel highly honored when additions are made to this portion of our society’s membership roll.” 1 I a •f t he Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 62 NOVEMBER, 1986 NO. 4 IN THIS ISSUE METHODS FOR INSPECTION OF CAVITIES IN TREES AND SNAGS, William C. McComb and Patricia L. Groetsch 61 THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1986, Anne L. Stamm 65 THE SIXTY-THIRD ANNUAL FALL MEETING 71 THE TREASURER’S REPORT, Harriet Korfhage 73 FIELD NOTES 75 NEWS AND VIEWS 78 60 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar, and Gordon Wilson President Fred Busroe, Morehead Vice-President Jim William, Lexington Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Recording Secretary Councillors : Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Dr. Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Retiring President Lee McNeely, Burlington 1984-1986 1984- 1986 1985- 1987 1985-1987 Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. OUR COVER Our thanks to Phillipe Roca for this portrait of enthusiastic birders at Jonathan Creek during the fall meeting held at Kenlake State Resort Park. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 61 METHODS FOR INSPECTION OF CAVITIES IN TREES AND SNAGS William C. McComb and Patricia L. Groetsch ABSTRACT This paper is a summary of practical snag and cavity inspection systems, including access to the cavity, internal cavity inspection, and remote monitoring of use. Advantages and disadvantages of each are dis¬ cussed. A cavity access method to be used when inspecting cavities in soft snags is described. Biases associated with frequency of inspection are discussed. INTRODUCTION Recent interest in snags and cavity-trees as important habitat features to cavity-dependent fauna has resulted in a plethora of studies designed to evaluate the importance of snags and cavity-trees to certain species. Despite this recent interest, there is still a lack of information on characteristics of desirable cavity-trees and snags for many species due to the fact that the desirability of a snag or cavity-tree to some species varies geographically (Conner 1978). Additional information on cavity selection, particularly by large cavity-nesters, is necessary throughout their ranges if we are to ensure viable populations and still manage our forests for timber pro¬ duction. Data collection of this type normally entails inspection of cavities for current or prior use, or monitoring of cavities for use over a given period of time (McComb 1979). Methods for access to and inspection of cavities have been presented in the literature (Gysel and Lyons 1980, Moriarty and McComb 1982, Cairns 1983, Speake and Altiere 1983, and others). During the last 6 years, the senior author has been involved with snag and cavity research in bottomland hardwood, upland pine-hardwood, and oak-hickory forests in the southeast and has tried a variety of cavity inspection methods. In an effort to facilitate future studies of snag and cavity use and to promote consistency in data collection among studies, we present methods for cavity inspection in this paper with evaluations on ease of data collection and potential biases. Additionally, a new method of monitoring cavity use is presented. METHODS Access to the Cavity Cavity inspection normally requires climbing a tree or snag. The method of attaining access to a cavity is dependent on the terrain, height of the cavity, frequency of cavity visitation, and soundness of the cavity¬ bearing tree or snag. Methods available to attain access include interlocking climbing ladders, climbing spurs, 30-cm spikes driven into the tree, and climbing ropes. Regardless of the method, a safety belt should be attached to the cavity-tree or a nearby tree while climbing. Climbing ladders provide a stable support, are quickly assembled at the tree or snag, and they incur little damage to living trees. Constraints on use include height of the cavity, frequency of inspection, and terrain. One person cannot carry more than four 3-m sections at one time for any appreciable distance. Normally, no more than two 3-m sections can be carried by one person during a day. 62 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Climbing spurs are lighter to carry than are ladders, allow access to most living portions of trees, and are relatively safe when used with a safety belt. Spurs are not as effective on tree species with thick or loose bark, such as chestnut oak (Quercus prinus) or shagbark hickory (Cary a ovata), as on thin-barked trees. Also, repeated use of spurs will leave scars on the tree, thus providing avenues of infection and degradation of wood quality. Such damage may bias cavity use by enhancing fungal infections in the tree or by attracting insects. Inspection of cavities no more than four times per year (seasonally) is recommended with climbing spurs. Spikes 30-cm long driven into the tree provide a permanent ladder to cavities in remote locations that must be visited frequently (one or more times per month). Once the initial time investment has been spent in placing these spikes into the tree, many cavities can be accessed very quickly within a given area. Obvious disadvantages of this method are : 1) the tree cannot be sold for timber, which is rarely a problem with cavity-trees and 2) the presence of the spikes may enhance or decrease the value of the cavity-tree to some species and hence bias results of cavity use. Ropes may be used to climb open-grown trees with large branches within several meters of the ground (Gysel 1961). Within a mature stand, self-pruning usually results in few branches suitable for using ropes for the first 10-m of the hole. Also, if ropes are left in trees to attain access on successive days or weeks, rodents may gnaw on the rope and weaken it. Some cavities located in snags may not be safely reached by ladders, spurs, spikes, or ropes, so we have devised a cable system to reach some of these cavities. Two trees are selected such that the snag lies on a line between the trees. Each tree is climbed to a height of approximately 1 m higher along a level surface than the height of the cavity in the snag. A 1-cm (%”) cable is stretched between the trees and is attached to each tree with two cable clamps. In order for the investigator to be able to approach the cavity via the cable, a harness system was devised. This system is composed of a sit-harness with a standard oval carabiner at¬ tached at the waist, which is connected to 1-inch webbing. This webbing leads to a second carabiner. Once in the harness, the investigator is able to attach himself to the cable with the second carabiner and proceed hand¬ over-hand to the cavity. The cable may have to be adjusted in height de¬ pending upon the distance spanned and the weight of the investigator. Cavities in the snag below the cable can be accessed by attaching a rope to the cable so that the rope falls parallel to the snag. The sit-harness is attached by way of 1-inch webbing to a standard oval carabiner connected to an ascender. The ascender is attached to the rope at chest-level. Two stirrups made of 1-inch webbing are used to attach the observer’s feet to the rope with another ascender and carabiner at approximately waist-level. This method of ascending a rope is referred to as the “two-footed Texas ascending system.” The observer can access the rope either at ground- level or from the cable. We recommend that a chest-harness be used in conjunction with this system. Once the observer is attached to the rope by the ascenders, he can either ascend or descend by moving the ascenders up or down one by one (Larson and Larson 1982:215-218). Potential bias is introduced by this method in providing additional access to the cavity for predators if the cable is left in place. Cavities in soft snags above crown level or where two trees do not align with the snag can only be examined by destructive sampling. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 63 Cavity Inspection Traditionally, cavities have been inspected by lights and dental mirrors on periscope devices (DeWeese et al. 1975, Seidensticker and Kilham 1969). These methods work well for most animal-made cavities where the occu¬ pants are directly below the lip of the cavity. For heart-rot formed cavities with irregular interiors, we have found a fiber optics system superior to previous methods (Moriarty and McComb 1982). Jackson (1976) found that glass windows placed in the side of the cavity allowed continual observation of the inhabitants for behavioral studies. Remote monitoring of cavities allows an investigator to know the num¬ ber of exits and entrances made at a cavity and, with sufficient equip¬ ment, what time the entrances and exits occurred and by what species. Previous investigators have used swinging gate entrances (Simons 1981), mercury switches (McComb 1979), and micro-switches (Carlson and Sloan 1976) to activate an event recorder. All of these methods force the animal to contact an unnatural surface upon entering and exiting a cavity so cavity use may be biased. We are using an infra-red light-emitting diode (LED for activating event recorders at cavities and next boxes. The LED’s are 3 cm x 3 cm x 0.5 cm in size, span a distance of 7-10 cm, and are available at a cost of about $4.00 each. Since the light emitted is infra-red, there is no apparent barrier or contact that the animal must make to activate an event recorder. LED switches can be used with any appropriate voltage counter (McComb 1979), event recorder (Carlson and Sloan 1976, Simons 1981), or photographic equipment (Temple 1972, Goetz 1981). The switches may be attached directly to the cavity entrance or to a yoke prior to placement at the cavity to facilitate alignment of the beam across the entrance. Frequency of Cavity Inspection The frequency with which cavities should be inspected will be the result of a compromise between collecting the maximum amount of data and avoiding biasing use of the cavities. If an organism uses any one cavity once during a year, the chance of finding that organism in that cavity if checked once each year is 1/365 (100) or 0.3%. If inspections are seasonal (four times per year), that chance is increased to 1.1%, and monthly inspections increase chances to 3.3%. Inspections more frequent than once a week will likely bias use of cavities by some species, but even an inspec¬ tion rate this frequent will result in only one chance in seven (14.3%) of finding an organism in a cavity or nest box. Of course the chance of dis¬ covering use of a cavity by species that use one cavity for many months or that will leave scats, nests, hair, or feathers is greatly increased, but the chance of finding cavity use by species that do not leave signs of use or may change cavities frequently, such as reptiles, amphibians, or some invertebrates, is reduced. Indeed, it should not be surprising to find low reptile and amphibian use of cavities if inspectons are less frequent than weekly (McComb and Noble 1981). Furthermore, data collected infrequently will not likey be normally distributed and may have to be transformed to normality before analysis or analyzed nonparametrically. Continuous monitoring of cavity use is more costly, but it provides substantially more information on total use of a cavity. We recommend monitoring a subsample of cavities with continuous monitoring devices while inspecting a large sample of cavities at least monthly for birds and mammals, or weekly for reptiles and amphibians. 64 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The information reported in this paper (83-8-80) is in connection with Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station Project 624 and is published with the approval of the Director. We thank R. J. Dugan for designing a prototype of the LED monitoring device; R. E. Noble, T. W. Richards, and J. J. Moriarty for suggestions and advice; and R. N. Muller, T. W. Kim- merer, and P. N. Allaire for reviewing an early draft of this manuscript. LITERATURE CITED Cairns, D. K. 1983. Examining nesting cavities with an optical fiberscope. Wilson Bull. 95:492. Carlson, D. J. and N. F. Sloan. 1976. Monitoring avian activity at water tanks and nest boxes. Inland Bird-Banding News 48:125-131. Conner, R. N. 1978. Snag management for cavity-nesting birds, pp. 120-128 in R. M. DeGraaf, ed. Proceedings of the workshop management of southern forests for non-game birds. USD A For. Serv. Gen. Tech. Rep. SE-14. DeWeese, L. R., R. E. Pillmore, and M. L. Richmond. 1975. A device for inspecting nest cavities. Bird Banding 46:162-165. Goetz, R. C. 1981. A photographic system for multiple automatic exposures under field conditions. J. Wildl. Manage. 45-272-276. Gysel, L. W. 1961. An ecological study of tree cavities and ground burrows. J. Wildl. Manage. 25:12-20. _ and L. J. Lyons. 1980. Habitat analysis and evaluation, pp. 305-325 in S. D. Schemnitz, ed. Wildlife Management Techniques, 4th ed. The Wildlife Society, Washington, D.C. Jackson, J. A. 1976. A comparison of some aspects of the breeding ecology of red-headed and red-bellied woodpeckers in Kansas. Condor 78:67-76. Larson, L. and P. Larson. 1982. Caving — The Sierra Club guide to spe¬ lunking. Sierra Club Books, San Francisco, CA. 311pp. McComb, W. C. 1979. Nest box and natural cavity use by wildlife in mid¬ south hardwoods as related to physical and microclimatic characteris¬ tics. Ph.D. dissertation, Louisiana State Univ., Baton Rouge. 221pp. _ and R. E. Noble. 1981. Herpetofaunal use of natural tree cavities and nest boxes. Wildl. Soc. Bull. 9:261-267. Moriarty, J. J. and W. C. McComb. 1982. A fiber optics system for tree cavity inspection. Wildl. Soc. Bull. 10:173-174. Seidensticker, J. C. and L. Kilham. 1969. A device for inspecting nest cavities. Bird Banding 39:228-230. Simons, T. R. 1981. A simple recording device for monitoring cavity¬ dwelling animals. Murrelet 62:27-30. Speake, D. W. and J. A. Altiere. 1983. A device for viewing and filming the contents of tree cavities, pp. 185-187 in J. W. Davis, G. A. Goodwin, and R. A. Ockenfels, Tech. Coordin. Snag habitat management: Pro¬ ceedings of the symposium. USDA For. Serv. Gen. Tech. Rep. RM-99. Temple, S. A. 1972. A portable time-lapse camera for recording wildlife activity. J. Wildl. Manage. 36:944-947. — Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546- 0073. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 65 THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1986 Anne L. Stamm The summer of 1986 was hot, especially in July. At Louisville June temperatures ranged in the nineties during the last few days of the month and precipitation was deficient by more than one inch, while July had 17 days 90 to 96 degrees with above-normal precipitation. The hot, dry weather (with rainfall below normal for the year) apparently produced a fairly successful nesting season. In late June, however, high water in western Kentucky and at the Falls of the Ohio on various dates, due to heavy rains above Kentucky, affected ground nesting species. Breeding Bird Surveys, in some locations, showed a decrease in numbers of many species. Purple Martins showed some decline in many areas. Be¬ wick’s Wrens disappeared from Murray, while on the more positive side Tree Swallows were found nesting in new locations. House Finches con¬ tinued to expand their breeding range with nesting now confirmed in Pulaski, Boone and Calloway Counties. Other positive news included the fledging of four Barn Owls and the confirmation of Great Egrets nesting in southern Ballard County. Grebes through Herons — A Pied-billed Grebe was present at Burling¬ ton, Boone County on June 30 and July 1, but no evidence of breeding (LMc). An adult Double-crested Cormorant was reported at Lake #9 on July 31 (CP). A colony of Great Blue Herons was checked in Union County and held 432+ nests on June 3 (BPB, J. MacGregor of the Nongame De¬ partment) ; common in Ballard County (CP) and many of these birds may have come from the colony at Axe Lake Swamp which was checked on June 23 and found to contain 100 nests (BPB, S. and M. Evans, C. Justis). This colony originally described by Burt L. Monroe, Sr. in 1937 contained 300 nests (Ky. Warbler, 13:13, 1937). Little is known of this colony from 1937 to 1983 when B. P. Pullin of the TV A made an aerial survey of the water- birds in Kentucky and Tennessee and found 106 nests in March 1983. Later during July 1983 Sherri and Marc Evans made a ground survey and found 110 nests of which 87 were active. The colony is on private land and en¬ trance is restricted and requires a boat (S. Evans, 1984 unpublished report KDFWR). Great Blue Herons were also common in Marshall County (CP) ; small numbers in Fulton County, June 5 (S, DS, FS), Hopkins County (JH) and Falls of the Ohio (LR). Two fledged young Great Egrets and two nests containing large, dead young were found at the Axe Lake Swamp Great Blue Heronry, June 25 (BPB, S. and M. Evans, C. Justis). This is the first known nesting of the Great Egret in the state since 1951. Ten Great Egrets were seen at Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge (hereafter Reelfoot NWR) and five at Lake #9 on June 5 (S, FS, DS) and 46 at the latter- location on July 31 (CP). A Snowy Egret was observed at the Falls of the Ohio on June 19 (LR) and one at Swan Lake, Ballard County, June 29 (BPB). Fair numbers of Little Blue Herons were observed: one adult at Swan Lake on June 4 and a group of 12 adults feeding in southern Fulton County, June 5 (S, FS, DS) : four adults in Ballard County, June 8 (CP, MM) ; and fifteen adults at Swan Lake, June 29 (BPB et al.) . There were three Cattle Egret nests and 10 adult birds present on Shippingport Island on July 15 (BPB) ; one at Swan Lake, June 29 (BPB et al.) . Green- backed Herons apeared to be in low numbers: singles in Henry and Shelby 66 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Counties (S) ; four at the Falls of the Ohio, June 21 (LR); three nests con¬ taining young in the western Clark County Black-crowned Night Heron colony, June 25 and a small group nesting on an island in Lake Barkley, June 25 (BPB, J. MacGregor). The Black-crowned Night Heronry on Shippingport Island was not accurately surveyed this year, but a com¬ parable number of the approximately 250 nests appeared to be active (BPB). The colony at Lake Barkley was checked on June 4 and it was estimated to contain 100 nests with some birds still incubating eggs (BPB, J. MacGregor). A new colony of Black-crowned Night Herons was discov¬ ered in western Clark County by Tom Edwards of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. The colony was later checked on June 25 and 28 nests were counted, but only one young bird was still present (BPB, J. MacGregor, G. Jacoby). Nests of the Yellow-crowned Night Heron were found in three locations: Lexington (BA), Shippingport (BPB, BBC) and a new nesting area on the Jenny Hole Unit of Slough WMA in northeastern Union County (Mike Morton of the KDFWR, BPB, J. MacGregor) ; several birds sighted at Blizzard Ponds, McCracken County, June 9-10 (BPB, M. Evans). Waterfowl — A Canada Goose was found nesting on an artificial nest platform at the Lexington Reservoir (BA) and a single bird was present on the Falls of the Ohio during most of the period (m. ob.). Wood Ducks apparently had a good year. Five females with broods totaling 40 birds were seen in Boone County, a female with 10 young in Owen County (LMc) ; other broods included five young in Washington County (JC, BC), 10 in Fayette County (BA) and young fledged (no number given) at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC). Fourteen rather large young Mallards were with an adult along the stream in Seneca Park, Louisville on July 6 (S, FS). Blue-winged Teal are uncommon in summer, but a pair was ob¬ served below McAlpine Dam, July 2 (LR). Young Hooded Mergansers were seen on the Sauerheber Unit of Sloughs WMA, June 21 (BPB). Raptors — Since the hacking program Ospreys have been more widely reported : one at the Falls of the Ohio observed on numerous occasions from June 20 (LR) to July 30 (S, FS) ; one unsuccessful nesting on a tall tower line at Lake Barkley (ER, BPB) ; one at Kentucky Lake with one young (BPB, ER) and one with two young in Livingston County (BPB). One of the latter pair was a banded bird by Kentucky FWS and successfully hacked several years ago. A number of Mississippi Kites were reported: two along the levee in Fulton County, June 5 (DS, S, FS) ; one at Ballard Wildlife Management Area (hereafter BWMA) on July 8 (MM, CP); five at Middle Bar, in the Mississippi River, Hickman County, July 9 (BPB, J. MacGregor) ; and two along the levee southwest of Hickman, Fulton County, July 31 (CP). The observation of several Bald Eagles during the period was of interest: two flying south over the levee in Fulton County, June 5 (S, FS, DS) ; two immatures in east Shelby County, July 27 ( fide WB) ; and sighted occasionally in the Land Between the Lakes area (ER). Single Cooper’s Hawks were reported at the following locations during June: Fulton County (DS, S, FS), Grayson County (KC), two locations in Taylor County and in Franklin County (BPB). A nest of the Red-shouldered Hawk was seen in Grayson County (KC) and singles were reported at two locations in Hopkins County. Single Broad-winged Hawks were observed near Worthville in Owen County and near Jonesville, Grant County and may have nested there (LMc) ; also observed on several occasions at Bed¬ ford, Trimble County (JY). Nests of the Red-tailed Hawk were found at Taylorsport, Richwood and Verona, all in Boone County (LMc) ; and in 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 67 Boyle County (FL). American Kestrels were reported as more widespread than usual (JC) and numerous in western Kentucky (CP). An immature Peregrine Falcon was present at the Falls a number of times: July 14 (BPB), July 17, 31 (LR) and sitting on the Pennsylvania Railroad Bridge on July 30 (S, FS) . Wild Turkey through Moorhen — There was a high yield of young Wild Turkeys this year in the Land Between the Lakes Area (ER). Four Common Moorhens were still present at the Sauberheber Unit of Sloughs WMA on June 21 (BPB). Shorebirds — Shorebird migration began in early July with the arrival of both the Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers and the Short-billed Dow- itcher. A number of species were late in arriving and numbers were low, with the exception of the peeps. The only Semipalmated Plovers were the nine at Lake #9, Fulton County, July 31 (CP). Killdeer were common to abundant in western Kentucky (CP), nests with young were found at Burlington and East Bend, Boone County (LMc) ; some 30 birds were on the Falls of the Ohio on July 30, but the high water on several occasions may have interferred with successful nesting (FS). An Avocet was present at the Falls of the Ohio on July 20 and tied Louisville’s 1977 record (BPB, R. Klapheke). A single Willet was seen at Smithland Dam, Livingston County on June 22 (BPB) and another at Lake #9 on July 31 (CP). Al¬ though Spotted Sandpipers were observed in small numbers at the Falls of the Ohio, the high water on several dates probably prevented successful nesting; also, a pair noted July 9 on a Mississippi sandbar, Hickman County (BPB). A single Sanderling at the Falls of the Ohio on July 27 was the only one reported (LR). Two Least and two Semipalmated Sandpipers returned to BWMA July 8 (MM, CP). The only concentration of shorebirds included 300 Least Sandpipers and a flock of 700 sandpiper species at Lake #9 on July 31 (CP). A Short-billed Dowiteher was observed and heard at BWMA on July 8 (MM, CP). An American Woodcock was flushed at Blizzard Ponds, June 10 (BPB). Gulls through Terns — Two Laughing Gulls were still present at Ken¬ tucky Dam, June 4 (BPB), and 12 to 25 Ring-billed Gulls were there on three dates between June 4-22 (BPB); one Ring-billed flying over the Falls of the Ohio, July 31 (S). Two to five Herring Gulls were seen at Kentucky Dam in June and last observed there on June 22 and one to five at the Falls of the Ohio June 15-19 (BPB). A few terns were reported: a Caspian at Kentucky Dam, June 22 (BPB) ; two Least Terns at Swan Pond on June 4 (S, DS, FS) ; one at the Falls of the Ohio, June 15( BPB). Several nests of the Least Tern were reported upstream from Paducah in June by the Corps of Engineers, but were unsuccessful due to high water in late June. In the survey made along the Mississippi by John W. Smith of the Missouri Department of Conservation there were approximately 120 nests on a sandbar downstream from Middle Bar, Hickman County, several smaller colonies in Fulton County and about 30 nests in Carlisle County, but some of these were destroyed by high water, although the colony in Hickman County was successful ( fide BPB). The large colony was visited on July 9 by John MacGregor, Jeremy Dreier and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and they saw many nests and young. A single Black Tern was noted at Smithland Dam on June 11 (BPB, Sherri and Marc Evans). Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — A Black-billed Cuckoo in northeast Pulaski County on June 8 was the only one reported (JE1). Few Yellow- 68 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 billed Cuckoos were observed in Jefferson, Henry and Shelby Counties (S), but a nest with one egg and one young was found at Union, Boone County, July 19 (LMc). The Chuck-will’s-widow was last heard calling in Hopkins County on July 18 (JH). Common Night Hawks were scarce in the Louis¬ ville area (S). Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were common in the Madison- ville area where as many as 10 were counted at Bonnie West’s feeder (JH) ; also common in Grayson County (KC) and fair numbers in Jefferson and Shelby Counties (S). Red-headed Woodpeckers were common in early June at Columbus-Belmont State Park, Hickman County and in southern Fulton County (S, DS, FS) ; other June sightings in Boone, Carroll and Owen Counties (LMc). Four Red-cockaded Woodpeckers were seen at dusk at a nest cavity in Laurel County, July 4 (DN, J. R. Noonan) and at least two there on July 7 (DN et al.) . Flycatchers through Stvallows — Willow Flycatchers were observed and heard calling in six counties: Ballard (S), Livingston, Trigg (BPB), Hopkins (JH, B. West), Boone (LMc) and Washington (JC, BC). Four Least Flycatchers were noted on Black Mountain, Harlin County, June 22 (DN, M. Pike). Broods of Eastern Phoebes were observed at Glasgow (RS) and at Shakertown (BA). The Purple Martin colony in Ballard County which had at least 75 pairs nesting in 1984 had a much reduced number this season with approximately 35 pairs (S, DS, FS). There was a successful nesting of the Tree Swallow at Somerset, Pulaski County and established the first breeding record for that County (JE1). Other Tree Swallow nests reported included one each in Grant (LMc), Henderson (BPB), and Shelby ( fide BPB) Counties; family groups in Ballard and Livingston Counties (BPB). Tree Swallows were beginning to gather in flocks on July 31 when 20 or more were observed along the Portland Canal (S, FS). No Northern Rough-winged Swallows were found at the roadside colony in Henry County where in recent years they had nested (S, FS). The Bank Swallow colony at Petersburg, Boone County, showed a mild decline while the Belleview colony showed a substantial increase with ap¬ proximately 80 nesting burrows and adults feeding young throughout June (LMc). Other Bank Swallow colonies along the Ohio River included one on June 29 below Smithland Dam with 150 birds and one downstream from Chalk Bluff with 75 burrows (BPB, J. Dreier, J. MacGregor); two in Carroll County with 150 active burrows in one and 70 in the other, totaling some 400 birds (S. DS, FS). A visit to the Carroll County colonies on July 27 showed the top soil removed from one side of the larger colony where the majority of the burrows were located. Adult birds were feeding young in late May and hopefully the majority of the young fledged before the destruction of the nesting sites; only two Bank Swallows were present on the latter date (S, FS). On a BBS in Henry and Shelby Counties only five Barn Swallows were recorded as compared to 18 last year (S). At least 138 active nests of Cliff Swallows were seen on Barkley Dam with 400 + birds flying to and from the nests and over the water on June 3 (S, DS, FS); two nesting sites, near Hardin, Calloway County (CP). The Cliff Swallow colony under the bridge, near Hamilton, Boone County, showed a decline with only 14 active nests compared to 29 last year (LMc). Corvidae through Shrikes — The Fish Crow at Jonathan Creek, Mar¬ shall County, July 4, was of interest (CP); also observed at BWMA on July 8 (MM, CP) ; two downstream from Middle Bar along the Mississippi River, Hickman County, July 9 and one along the Ohio in Ballard County (BPB). An adult Common Raven and a very young fledgling were observed 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 69 on Black Mountain, June 22 (DN, M. Pike). A group of three or four Brown Creepers was seen at Axe Lake Swamp on June 29 and nesting was suspected (BPB, C. Justis, S. and M. Evans). There were few reports on the Carolina Wren, but successful nesting was observed in Louisville and at Big Pond Sanctuary (S, KC). The Bewick’s Wren was absent from Murray where one to two were present in recent years (CP) ; one was seen at Somerset on July 18 and may have nested since one was heard there on May 19 (JE1). A nest of the Blue-gray Gnateatcher was found near Union, Boone County on June 7 with an adult incubating (LMc). Eastern Blue¬ birds had a very successful year at Land Between the Lakes (ER). Eight Veeries were seen on Black Mountain, Harlin County on June 22 (DN, M. Pike). Of particular interest was the discovery of an egg of the Brown¬ headed Cowbird in the nest of a Brown Thrasher, an uncommon victim of the species (LMc). Breeding records of the Loggerhead Shrike included two broods in Calloway County (MM) ; three young with adults in Wash¬ ington County (JC, BC) and a nest with three young in Grant County (K. Caminiti fide LMc) ; also several adult birds observed along the roadside in Hickman County, June 4 and Fulton County, June 5 (S, DS, FS). Vireo through Warblers — A pair of Solitary Vireos was observed in upper Bad Branch on Pine Mountain, Letcher County, June 7 (BPB). A Blue-winged Warbler was heard singing at Blizzard Pond on June 9 (BPB) and summering Northern Parulas were present at East Bend and Middle Creek (LMc). An adult Pine Warbler was seen feeding young at Cumber¬ land Falls State Park on May 18 (DN, P. Noble) and one singing at Ilsley, Hopkins County on June 6 suggested breeding (JH). Singing Ceru¬ lean Warblers were present at Elk Creek on June 5 (F. Clayton fide JH) and northeast of Madisonville on June 27 (JH). A broken-wing act was put on by a Worm-eating Warbler, near Union, June 7 (LMc). Single Swainson’s Warblers were reported in McCreary County in early June (B. Peterjohn fide BPB) and at Bad Branch, June 7 (BPB). An adult Common Yellowthroat was observed feeding a young Brown-headed Cow- bird in Carroll County (LMc). Common Yellowthroats were more numerous on the BBS in southern Hopkins and northern Christian Counties than last year (AS), but still below that of 1984. Three male Canada Warblers were noted on Black Mountain on June 22 where the species breeds on the higher elevations (DN, M. Pike). Although the Yellow¬ breasted Chat disappeared from some areas in Hopkins County (JH) the BBS showed numbers up over last year (AS). Tanagers through Finches — The Scarlet Tanager was recorded at two locations in Hopkins County during July where it is a rare summer resident (JH). Fewer Blue Grosbeaks were reported this year, but they were sighted at four locations in Hopkins County (JH), one in Pulaski County (JE1) and two in Fulton County (S, DS). An adult Dickcissel was seen carrying food to young in southern Fulton County on June 4, where they were numerous along state road 94 and along the levee (S, FS, DS) ; three birds in Spencer County, June 7 (JC, BC) ; and two on territory at Masterson Station Park, Fayette County in mid-June (BPB, BBC). Two male Bachman’s Sparrows were seen near Hardin, Calloway County (no date given) by Clell Peterson. Another rather unusual bird was the Lark Sparrow, about six miles south of Falmouth, Pendleton County, June 18 (BPB, S. Evans, L. Andrews, C. Justis); also one along Crooked Creek, Lewis County, July 1 (S. Evans fide BPB). Two to three Savannah Spar¬ rows were seen at Bedford, Trimble County on July 10 (JY) and singing 70 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 birds noted in southwest Oldham County during the summer (BPB). There seemed to be an increase in the number of nesting Grasshopper Sparrows this year. The Eastview BBS in Hardin and Breckenridge Counties showed 20 as compared to one in 1985 (BM); other June records were in Grant, Owen (LMc), Pulaski (JE1), and Fayette Counties (JW). The Song Spar¬ row was recorded at three locations in Hopkins County (JH) and there were three singing males, widely spaced, in Ballard County (CP) ; and numbers were up on the Pleasureville BBS (S). Bobolinks were present in fair numbers at Masterson Station Park and females were carrying food in early June (BBC). The field was cut during the breeding season and may have caused loss of young (JW). Strangely enough, the Common Grackle showed a decrease on the Pleasureville BBS with only 112 birds this year compared to 195 last June (S). A nest of the Orchard Oriole was found at Wheatley, Owen County, May 24 (LMc). Northern Orioles were fairly common at Columbus-Belmont State Park, Swan Lake and along the Mississippi River in Fulton County (S, DS, FS). Successful nesting of the House Finch was recorded in Boone County (LMc), Pulaski (JE1) and Cal¬ loway Counties (CP). Also, two broods were raised again in a hanging fern plant in the Louisville area (WJ). Some movement of the House Finch was noted on July 31 when a flock of 30 was seen in a yard on Spokane Way, Louisville (S). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), W. H. Brown (WB), Barbara Croft (BC), Joseph E. Croft (JC), Jackie Elmore (JE1), J. W. Hancock (JH), Wilbur Jackson (WJ), Frederick W. Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr., (BM), Doxie Noonan (DN), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Ed¬ win Ray (ER), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Thomas Stevenson (TS), A. R. Stickley (AS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Jim Williams (JW), John Young (JY). Other abbrevi¬ ations — Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge (Reelfoot NWR), Ballard Waterfowl Management Area (BWMA), Beck¬ ham Bird Club (BBC), Wildlife Management Area (WMA). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 71 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Fall Meeting — October 3-5, 1986 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 63rd annual Fall Meeting at Kenlake State Park on October 3-5, 1986. Members and guests were welcomed to the Friday evening session by President Fred Busroe. Jim Williams detailed the following day’s field trips, then introduced the speakers for the evening. Anne Stamm described the donated art prints on display, which were available for sale to KOS members. Blaine Ferrell presented slides of his recent trip to Alaska. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. provided information on the current status of the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas, and Phillipe Roca concluded the program with a slide presentation of some of his photography and a discussion of the possible production of a calendar with bird photographs. A social hour followed the evening session. Overcast skies and mild temperatures greeted those participating on Saturday morning field trips. A 6:00 a.m. walk around the lodge area was followed by 8:00 a.m. trips, one to Jonathan Creek and Lake Barkley led by Clell Peterson, and the other to Hematite Lake led by Blaine Ferrell. At 2:00 p.m. Sue Draper discussed with members the activities and current work of the Land Between the Lakes Association. The Board of Directors met at the Lodge at 4:00 p.m. The evening program began with dinner at 6:30 p.m., then was fol¬ lowed by a fine presentation by Fred Busroe on his recent summer birding trip to Michigan. A brief business meeting followed the program. The Treasurer’s report was given and current KOS membership totals were announced. Dates and localities for upcoming meetings were announced as follows: 1987 Spring Meeting at Cumberland Falls State Park on April 24-26, and 1987 Fall Meeting at Natural Bridge State Park on September 25-27. Anne Stamm presented the following slate of officers from the Nominating Committee: President — Fred Busroe, Vice President — Jim Williams, Corresponding Secretary — Harriet Korfhage, Recording Secretary — Lee McNeely, and Councillors — Wendell Kingsolver, Mary Lydia Greenwell, Dennis Sandlin, and Thomas Stevenson. All were elected for the coming year as presented. Jim Williams led members in compiling the day’s bird list, with a total of 103 species seen through Saturday. A Sunday morning field trip was announced for 8:30 a.m. to Jonathan Creek. Additional birds seen on Sunday brought the weekend total to 117 species. Total registrations for the Fall Meeting were 76. BIRDS RECORDED ON FIELD TRIPS DURING THE FALL MEETING AT KENLAKE STATE RESORT PARK October 3-5, 1986 Pied-billed Grebe, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Little Blue Heron, Green-backed Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Northern Pin¬ tail*, Blue-winged Teal, American Wigeon*, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Sharp- shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, Black-bellied Plover, Semipalmated Plover, Piping 72 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Plover, Killdeer, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Western Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Dunlin, Stilt Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowiteher, Common Snipe, American Woodcock, Franklin’s Gull, Ring-billed Gull, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Black-billed Cuckoo, Yellow¬ billed Cuckoo, Eastern Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl*, Common Nighthawk, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Wood¬ pecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Eastern Kingbird*, Horned Lark, Tree Swal¬ low, Northern Rough-winged Swallow*, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet*, Eastern Bluebird, Swainson’s Thrush*, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mock¬ ingbird, Brown Thrasher, Water Pipit*, Loggerhead Shrike, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Tennes¬ see Warbler, Nashville Warbler*, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warb¬ ler, Cape May Warbler*, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler*, Pine Warbler, Palm Warbler*, Bay¬ breasted Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Ovenbird*, Connecticut Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Wilson’s Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, In¬ digo Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Common Graekle, Brown¬ headed Cowbird, American Goldfinch, House Sparrow. Those species marked by an asterisk were observed on Sunday. The species total was 117. ATTENDANCE AT THE FALL MEETING, 1986 BLANDVILLE: Newton Belt. BOWLING GREEN: Blaine and Priscilla Ferrell, William and Ruth Mathes, H. E. and Jacky Shadowen. BUCKHORN : Dennis Sandlin, Eileen Sandlin. BURLINGTON : Lee and Lynda McNeely, Tommie and Karen Stephens. CARLISLE: Wendell and Virginia Kingsolver. CRITTENDEN: Joe and Kathy Caminiti. FALLS OF THE ROUGH: Judith Williams. GILBERTSVILLE : E. J. and Madelyn Conrad. GLASGOW : Howard and Frances Jones. HAZARD: Donnie Spencer and children. HICKMAN: Phillip Drake. LEXINGTON: Michael and Jean Flynn, Phillipe Roca, Andy Uterhart, Jim and Gerry Williams. LOUISVILLE: Roland and Marie Blahnik, Altha Cain, Richard Cassell, Kathryn Clay, Katherine Colburn, Diane Ebel, R. L. and Virginia Hectorne, Tim Love, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, F. W. and Anne Stamm, Donald Summerfield, Larry Ysunza. MACEO: Albert and Mildred Powell. MARION: Mike and Pat O’Hara. MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe. MURRAY : Happy Chambers, Sally Leedham, Michael Miller, Clell Peter¬ son. OWENSBORO: Mike Brown, Lydia Greenwell, John Humphrey, W. T. 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 73 Perkins, L. E. and Eleanor Wilson. PADUCAH: Bernice Caddell. PRINCETON: Robert and Emelene Rowland. STANLEY : Thomas and Anna Lee Stevenson. WILMORE: Tom Rae. CINCINNATI, OHIO: Jeff and Holly Hawkins. DYERSBURG, TENNESSEE: Kenneth and Betty Leggett. JEFFERSONVILLE, INDIANA: Stuart and Mary Ann Jenkins. NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: Mary Edds. REPORT OF THE TREASURER Fiscal Year 1985-1986 GENERAL FUND Bank Balance, September 16, 1985 $1,763.06 Receipts Membership Dues . $2,671.50 Interest Income: Endowment Fund 388.60 Wilson Fund 129.90 Fall Meeting . 115.00 Spring Meeting 137.00 Sale of Warblers, check lists, etc. 104.25 American Ornithological Society 210.00 3,756.25 $5,519.31 „ . . Disbursements Printing: Kentucky Warbler (5 issues) $2,541.04 Envelopes 189.00 Postage 318.97 Treasurer’s Expenses 61.20 Fall Meeting 22.53 Spring Meeting 21.60 Supplies 44.98 Transfer Life Membership (7) to Endowment Fund 525.00 Transfer Gift (C. Noland) to Endowment Fund 250.00 Transfer to Wilson Fund 129.00 Bank Charges 18.49 Refund — Over-payment Life Membership 76.00 Miscellaneous Expenses 7.00 4,205.71 Bank Balance, September 23, 1986 $1,313.60 ENDOWMENT FUND Balance in Savings Account, Future Federal September 16, 1985 $ 829.07 Certificate of deposit (4) 4,500.00 $5,329.07 74 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 Receipts Interest Income: Certificate of Deposit $ 388.60 Saving’s Account 60.70 Life Memberships (7) 525.00 Gift from C. Noland Estate 250.00 Disbursements Transfer to General Fund Balance in Savings Account, Future Federal, September 23, 1986 Certificates of Deposit: 2 @ .$1,000.00 each Great Financial Federal 1 @ $1,500.00 Future Federal 1 @ $1,000.00 Future Federal Balance in Fund, September 23, 1986 GORDON WILSON FUND Balance in Savings Account, September 16, 1985 Certificates of Deposit (2) @ $1,000 Great Financial Federal Receipts Interest on Savings Account $ 66.92 Interest on Certificates of Deposit 129.90 Total Balance in Fund, September 23, 1986 Certificate of Deposit Savings Account $2,000.00 1,388.63 $3,388.63 BALANCE SHEET September 23, 1986 Assets: Cash General Fund Endowment Fund Gordon Wilson Fund Total $1,224.30 $6,553.37 388.60 $6,164.77 $1,664.77 4,500.00 $6,164.77 $1,191.81 2,000.00 $3,191.81 196.82 $3,388.63 $ 1,313.60 6,164.77 3,388.63 $10,867.00 Net Worth $10,867.00 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 75 FIELD NOTES NESTING OF HERONS ON SHIPPINGPORT ISLAND On 18 August 1984, the authors and Marc Evans, John MacGregor and Max Medley visited Shippingport Island, adjacent to the Falls of the Ohio, in search of the location of a nesting colony of Black-crowned Night-Herons (Nycticorax nycticorax) suspected of being somewhere on the island. The nesting colony was successfully located in a grove of white mulberry trees (Morus alba) ranging from 20-40 feet in height, and approximately 200 active nests were counted. Much to our surprise, several nests of Cattle Egrets (Bulbulcus ibis) containing half-grown young were discovered within the colony. Several adult Cattle Egrets were observed flying overhead, and at least four nests were counted, each containing 3-4 young. The presence of Cattle Egrets in the nesting colony took us by complete surprise since none had been observed in the area all year. Based on this fact, it is entirely possible that nesting of Cattle Egrets had gone undetected in the area prior to 1984. In 1985, this nesting colony was regularly checked as part of a study of avifauna in the vicinity of the Falls of the Ohio for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Black-crowned Night-Herons were first noted on March 29 when over fifty birds were counted in the leafless trees, perching on the previous year’s nests. Courtship and nesting commenced immediately, and in early May Cattle Egrets were observed for the first time. By early July, both young Black-crowned Night-Herons and Cattle Egrets were beginning to fledge, and on July 12 a single nest of Little Blue Herons (Egretta caerulea ) was located in the colony. The Little Blue Heron nest was located among the shorter trees in the colony near the eastern edge and in close proximity to the Cattle Egret nests. The presence of a Little Blue Heron nest in this vicinity had been suspected due to periodic observations of a pair of adults in the area since mid-May. When first discovered, the Little Blue Heron nest contained five nearly full-grown young. The young birds’ plumages were entirely white except for dusky tips on the primaries, as is characteristic of this species. Some down was still visible during the first two weeks of observations. The bills were chalky in color and the legs were pale yellow-green. The young birds were observed being fed by an adult on several occa¬ sions. After fledging, the immature Little Blue Herons remained in trees near the colony for several weeks while the adults continued to feed them. In mid-August, they were observed feeding nearby in the shallow pools of the fossil beds at the Falls of the Ohio. Interestingly, the adults were last seen in the area on 15 August, departing over a month before the imma- tures, which were last observed there on 23 September. In addition to the pair of Little Blue Herons, the colony also contained the nests of approximately 275 pairs of Black-crowned Night-Herons and five pairs of Cattle Egrets in 1985. In addition, four pairs of Yellow- crowned Night-Herons (Nycticorax violacea) and two pairs of Green-backed Herons ( Butorides striatus) nested on another part of the island. Shippingport Island becomes the fourth known nesting location for the Louisville area’s well-known Black-crowned Night-Heron population in the past fifty years. All previous nesting locations, Six-Mile Island up¬ stream from Louisville (used from about 1930 to 1948; Mengel, The Birds of Kentucky, A.O.U. Monograph 3, 1965), Goose Island just below the 76 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 fossil beds of the Falls of the Ohio (used from 1949 until the early 1960s; Smith, Ky. Warbler 26: 6-8, 1950) and Sand Island downstream from the Falls (used from 1962 for about the next 5-10 years; Wiley, Ky. Warbler 40:3-5, 1964) have been abandoned, and prior to 1984, the location of the nesting colony had been unknown for approximately ten years. In addition, this is one of only three active Black-crowned Night-Heron nesting colonies in the state, the other two being located on an island near the southern end of Lake Barkley, Trigg County (Thomas, Ky. Warbler 58(2) : 35, 1982) and in western Clark County (John MacGregor, pers. comm.). The 1985 nesting of the Little Blue Herons is the second reported in Kentucky, the only other nesting occurred in the Lake Barkley colony from 1981-1983. This nesting colony has been declining in recent years for reasons not fully understood and has not contained Little Blue Herons over the past two years (Evans, unpubl. report). Shippingport is now one of three known nesting locations of Cattle Egrets in the state, the only other locations being the Lake Barkley colony where at least one pair nested in 1981 and a Mississippi River sandbar in Fulton County where approximately 55 pairs nested in 1984 (Evans, unpubl. report; Stamm, Ky. Warbler 60:51, 1984). Cattle Egrets were absent from both locations in 1985. Finally, Shippingport is one of less than a dozen known nesting loca¬ tions of Yellow-crowned Night Herons in the state, and the Yellow-crowned Night Heron nesting in 1985 represents the first reported in the Louisville area since 1976 (Kleen, Amer. Birds 30:961-965, 1976). Obviously Shippingport Island is a highly significant nesting area for herons in Kentucky. Fortunately, the island is jointly owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Louisville Gas and Electric Company and is not open to the public without authorization. It is also part of the recently designated Falls of the Ohio National Wildlife Conservation Area, a designation intended to protect this unique area and the wildlife which depend upon it. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR. and SHERRI A. EVANS. 8207 Old Westport Rd., Louisville, KY 40222. SONG SPARROW MIMICS SONG OF NORTHERN CARDINAL The imitation of conspecifics plays an important role in song learning in many species of birds. With the exception of a few groups (e. g., mimids), imitation of the vocalizations of other species is uncommon. Among em- berizids, the occasional imitation of heterospecifics has been noted in the Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus) (Kroodsma, Wilson Bull. 84:173- 178, 1972), Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina), Bachman’s Sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis) , and Rufous-sided Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) (Borror, Ohio J. Sci. 68:129-138, 1968), and White-crowned Sparrow (Zon- otrichia leucophrys) (Baptista and Morton, Auk 98:383-385, 1981). There have been few reports of interspecific mimicry in the Song Sparrow (Zono- trichia melodia). Kroodsma (Anim. Behav. 25:390-399, 1976) raised Song Sparrows in captivity and noted that some birds copied song elements from Canaries (Serinus canaria). Marler and Peters (Science 198:519-521, 1977) also raised Song Sparrows in captivity and reported that these birds learned components of Swamp Sparrow ( Zonotrichia georgiana) song. I could find only one report of interspecific mimicry by free-living Song Sparrows. In this study, Eberhardt and Baptista (Bird-Banding 48: 193-205, 1977) des¬ cribed Song Sparrows in California whose songs included components of Wrentit (Chamaea fas data ) songs. On 2 March 1985 I observed and re- 1986 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 77 corded a Song Sparrow whose songs included notes similar to those in the Songs of Northern Cardinals ( Cardinalis cardinalis) (Fig. 1). This sparrow sang about ten songs before flying off. I subsequently returned to the same area several times throughout the spring and summer but did not hear the atypical songs again. In the laboratory, deprivation of conspecific song models may lead to mimicry. For example, Lanyon (Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 161:429-627, 1957) found that such deprivation could lead to mimicry in meadowlarks (Stumella rnagna and S. neglecta). The interspecific mimicry observed in free-living birds may result from similar natural “deprivation,” where young birds are acoustically isolated from singing conspecifics during the period when song is normally acquired. This could happen among young hatched late in the singing season, at the edges of the breeding range, or among early dispersers of migrants (Kroodsma, Acoustic Communication in Birds, Vol. 2, 1-23, Acad. Press, N.Y., 1982). —GARY RITCHISON, De¬ partment of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475 FIGURE 1. Songs of Song Sparrows and a Northern Cardinal, (a) song of Song Sparrow with notes similar to those of Northern Cardinals (first three notes), (b) song of a Northern Cardinal, (c) ‘typical’ song of a Song Sparrow. 61 a 3- 0.5 Time (sec) 1.0 78 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 62 NEWS AND VIEWS REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE As part of a species restoration project in north Alabama, 122 Great White Egrets (Egretta alba) have been “hacked” near Guntersville Reser¬ voir. Each egret is marked with a two-inch red flag attached to a Fish and Wildlife leg band. Sightings should be reported to: Burline Pullin, Wildlife Resources Development Program, Tennessee Valley Authority, Norris, Tennessee 37828; Telephone (615) 632-1642. Please note the number and location of egrets and the date of the observation. REMINDER Members are reminded to pay their dues if they have not already done so. 1986 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT Forms for the Mid-winter Bird Count have been mailed, if you desire to participate as a compiler and have not received the forms, please contact the Editor. All birds recorded must be within a 15-mile diameter circle. Extraordinary sightings must be accompanied with a verification form that is provided to each compiler. ;The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 63 FEBRUARY, 1987 NO. 1 IN THIS ISSUE THAYER’S GULL IN KENTUCKY, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. 3 THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1986, Anne L. Stamm 5 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT, 1986-1987 12 BOOK REVIEW, Frederick W. Loetscher, Jr. 23 FIELD NOTE 24 NEWS AND VIEWS 24 2 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, President Vice-President Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Councillors : Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensbon Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist . i. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson Fred Busroe, Morehead Jim William, Lexington Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Lee McNeely, Burlington 1985-1987 1985- 1987 1986- 1988 1986-1988 Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for our cover photograph of the Black- throated Gray Warbler, an unusual visitor to the Lexington area in De¬ cember. (Plus-X film, Nikon F3, 300 mm lens, 250/8). 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 THAYER S GULL IN KENTUCKY Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Little known and difficult to identify, the Thayer’s Gull (Larus thayeri) has received only modest attention since the time it was accepted as a full species by the A.O.U. (1973). The species was first knowingly observed in Kentucky on 15 December 1967 when Able (1968) observed and subsequently collected an immature at Kentucky Dam. Between 1967 and 1981 the species was not conclusively reported from the state, how¬ ever, beginning in the fall of 1981, numerous sightings have been made, and the Thayer’s Gull has now been documented as a rare to uncommon transient and winter resident in at least a part of the state. Throughout its checkered taxonomic history, the “Thayer’s” Gull has been regarded at one time or another as a subspecies of the Iceland Gull, a subspecies of the Herring Gull, a hybrid form between the two, and presently a full species distinct from both. It is apparent that the true taxonomic status of the Thayer’s Gull is yet to be resolved, and in the future it is quite possible that the Thayer’s Gull will once again be classified as a subspecies of the Iceland Gull. While the taxonomic and identification problems of the Thayer’s Gull are complex, criteria for identifying the species have now been fairly well summarized in two published articles by Gosselin and David (1975) and Lehman (1980). Generally, the Thayer’s Gull looks like a Herring Gull with light wing-tips; lighter brown in immature plumages, more extensive white in adults. Unfortunately, few of the characters readily observable in the field that are used to identify the species are definitive. Most involve relative sizes, patterns and tones of color. The best field characters of red¬ dish eye-ring and dark iris can be viewed only at very close range and per¬ tain to adult birds. For these reasons, not all birds can be safely separated from Herring and Iceland gulls, and observers should be cautious when iden¬ tifying the species. There is no doubt that the experience gained by observ¬ ing numbers of Thayer’s Gulls in the company of birders who know how to identify the species in areas where they occur in greater numbers is an invaluable tool in learning to recognize the species. The Thayer’s Gull nests locally along the mainland coast and islands of the high Canadian Arctic between western Greenland and the Northwest Territories. In fall, most birds move southwest to the northern Pacific coast while a small portion of the population appears to move southeast and south to the northeastern U.S., eastern Canada, the Great Lakes and the Mississippi Valley. In the eastern U.S. the species is most numerous in winter on the eastern Great Lakes where up to twenty or more may be seen in a single day. Elsewhere, the species seems to be a very rare to uncommon, but regular, winter visitor in small numbers, accompanying the large groups of Herring Gulls in their movements to the south. The species has now been observed down the Atlantic coast as far as Maryland, and along the Gulf coast from west central Florida to Texas. Regionally, Thayer’s Gull is known only from Lake Erie in Ohio and records are chiefly from along Lake Michigan in Indiana, except for a few reports in the southern part of the state including the Indiana portion of the Falls of the Ohio. In Illinois Thayer’s Gull is more widespread, occurring regularly on both Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River near Alton, as well as along the Illinois River and scattered reservoirs in the central and southern portions of the state. Thayer’s Gull has not been 4 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 recorded in Tennessee, however, the occasional occurrence of this species on the larger lakes and rivers, especially in west Tennessee, is to be expected. In Kentucky, Thayer’s Gull appears to be regular in occurrence only near the confluence of the Tennessee and Cumberland rivers with the Ohio, where large dams provide an abundance of food for the gulls. Kentucky Dam on the lower Tennessee River, Barkley Dam on the lower Cumber¬ land River and Smithland Dam on the lower Ohio River appear to attract at least small numbers of Thayer’s Gulls every winter. Being most num¬ erous during extremely cold mid-winter weather, up to approximately a dozen individuals have been observed in a single day around the dams. Throughout the remainder of the state Thayer’s Gull has been reported from only the Ohio River at or near Louisville, almost exclusively at the Falls of the Ohio. The species’ occurrence in Kentucky is probably similar to the Herring Gull with which it appears to associate in seasonal movements. The first fall birds may be expected to arrive in early November, with maximum normal numbers probably reached by early to mid-January. Extremely cold weather can bring in an influx of birds that may remain for a few weeks, but with the onset of warmer weather, numbers appear to decline rapidly by the first part of March, and the latest spring sightings have been in early April. At Kentucky, Barkley and Smithland dams, Thayer’s Gulls have been observed during each winter since 1981-82. The largest numbers were ob¬ served in January and February of 1982 and 1985 when extremely cold weather forced large numbers of Herring Gulls to move further south than usual. During these years, Herring and Thayer’s Gulls were reported to be less numerous than normal in their overwintering areas in Indiana and Illinois, indicating that our Thayer’s probably came from these areas. In the mid-winter of 1983, 1984 and 1986, fewer were observed in western Kentucky, but were still present even though the state experienced no extended periods of abnormally cold weather. At Louisville, Thayer’s Gull has been observed three times since the initial observation during the winter of 1981-82. A first year immature was observed 8-11 November 1984 and adults on 21 January 1985 and 10-12 April 1986. While it is possible that Thayer’s Gull occurs at the Falls of the Ohio every year as a transient and/or winter resident, its occurrence is probably not to be expected in other localities in central and eastern Kentucky except occasionally along other portions of the Ohio River. Like all gulls, Thayer’s progresses through a series of plumages as individuals become adults. Although first-year immatures and adults pre¬ dominate, birds in both second- and third-winter plumages have been ob¬ served. Although the first-year birds seems to be more numerous than adults, it is the first-year plumage that is slightly more noticeable in the field, and the frequency of observation may not represent a greater abun¬ dance. The less numerous second-and-third-year birds are not as well known, but have been observed on several occasions at the dams in western Kentucky when large numbers of Herring Gulls were present. It appears that while a majority of wintering Thayer’s Gulls in the eastern U.S. remain on the Great Lakes, small numbers regularly come further south following the larger numbers of Herring Gulls. It seems that the birds move along the larger rivers within the Mississippi Valley, following them to favorable feeding areas, thus explaining the species 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 5 distributional pattern in Kentucky and nearby states. Interestingly, while Thayer’s Gull now appears to be regular in occurrence in Kentucky, its closely related northern cousin, the Iceland Gull, has proven to be extremely rare. Only one fully documented sighting of this northern species has been made in the 1980’s in the state, and observations from the midwestern states indicate that the Thayer’s Gull outnumbers the Iceland Gull by more than 5:1 on the western Great Lakes and by 15-20:1 in the Mississippi and Ohio valleys. LITERATURE CITED Able, Kenneth P. 1968. Recent additions to the avifauna of Kentucky. The Kentucky Warbler 44 :55-57. American Ornithologists’ Union. 1973. Thirty-second supplement to the American Ornithologists’ Union Check-list of North American birds, in The Auk 90(4) :411-419. Gosselin, Michael, and Normand David. 1975. Field Identification of the Thayer’s Gull (Larus thayeri) in eastern North America, in American Birds 29(6) :1059-1066. Lehman, Paul. 1980. The identification of the Thayer’s Gull in the field, in Birding 12 (6) :198-210. — 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1986 Anne L. Stamm The weather pattern of the fall season of 1986 was, for the most part, dry, mild and warm; little rainfall until November. In the early part of the season the lack of strong cold fronts and warm weather caused ob¬ servers to find migration somewhat disappointing, although some warblers filtered through. Beginning in October, however, much excitement was created when numbers of Winter Wrens and White-throated Sparrows appeared in Louisville Parks. Cold fronts in late October and early No¬ vember brought some duck flights and started the southward movement of Sandhill Cranes. The hawk migration seems to have been missed, although some good and interesting records of various species were noted. Careful field work produced interesting observations of gulls. Blackbirds arrived by the thousands in the Fern Creek area in November. Some rarities occurred late in the season and made birding exciting. The bird of the season, of course, was the Black-throated Gray Warbler, found in Lexington Cemetery by Brad Andres. The Ross’ Goose found in Ballard County by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. was also noteworthy. Earlier in the season Franklin’s Gull established the state’s earliest record. Another bird of interest was the Yellow Rail in Henderson County documented by Doxie Noonan and Cathy Justis. From various parts of the state came reports of birds remaining be¬ yond normal departure dates, especially warblers. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; FCRA = Fishing Creek 6 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Recreational Area, Pulaski County; KOS = Kentucky Ornithological So¬ ciety; KDFWS = Kentucky Department Fish and Wildlife Service; Reel- foot NWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; SWMA Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County. Loons through Cormorants — A fairly early Common Loon arrived at FCRA, Pulaski County, September 27 (JE1). The main flight came through in November, but in small numbers, with a high of 40 birds at Cave Run Lake, November 29 (BA) and 30 at Dale Hollow Lake, November 30 (RS). There was a fair migration of Horned Grebes with the largest concen¬ tration of 200 in scattered groups along the Ohio River at Louisville on November 3 (BPB) ; 75 at Cave Run Lake, November 29 (BA) and smaller groups in other areas during November. Pied-billed Grebes were widely reported but few large groups developed. The largest group totaled 103 at Lake Pewee, Hopkins County, October 20 (JH). A Red-necked Grebe was reported above Lake Barkley Dam, November 29 (BPB, LR, DN, D. Ebel) ; and a probable immature at Owsley Fork Lake, Jackson County, October 16 (AR, TR). A White Pelican was seen at Taylorsville Lake on August 8 by Charles Roth ( fide BPB), August 11 (BPB), and August 13 (BBC); another at Corinth Lake in late October (RM); and one over the Ohio River at Fourth Street, Louisville, November 10 (JC). Double-crested Cormorants were found in eight locations in numbers from one to ten (m.ob.) . Herons — Two Least Bitterns were noted at the SWMA, Henderson County, September 7 (BPB, R. Cassel) ; no other bitterns reported. Great¬ est concentrations of Great Blue Herons included 107 at Silo Overlook, October 5, (S, DS, FS) ; 68 at Jonathan Creek, Calloway County, October 29 (MM), 45 November 30 (CP, MM); 65 at Lake #9, August 31 (BPB) and at Lake Barkley up to 50, November 29 (DN, J. R. Noonan) ; also reported at five other locations (m.ob.). Great Egrets were reported from Ballard County to Spencer County at eight locations with the greatest number — 17 — at Lake #9 (CP) ; late stragglers included five at Lake Pewee, October 2 (JH), two at Smith- land Dam, October 5 (BPB) and three at Jonathan Creek on October 26 (MM). The only report of the Snowy Egret was at BWMA, August 31 (BPB). A few Little Blue Herons were seen near the Mississippi River in Ballard and Fulton Counties, August 2 and 5 (CP) ; three immatures at BWMA and 25 at Swan Lake, Ballard County, August 31 (BPB). Single Cattle Egrets were present at SWMA, August 31 (BPB), Simeoe Lane, Louisville, November 2 (BM, M. Monroe) ; Mayfair Basins, Louisville, November 8 (JK) ; 37 in a field with cattle, east of Bardwell and 35-40 along the Mississippi, Carlisle County, September 21 (BPB). Green-backed Herons were scarce, latest report at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County, October 19 (KC). Black-crowned Night Herons left early and were re¬ ported in low numbers; 22 at Falls of the Ohio, September 4 (DS) with 30 as the maximum there during August and September (BPB). Interesting records included an adult at Taylorsville Lake, August 11 (BPB) and two immatures at Green River Lake, Taylor County, September 14 (S, DS, FS). Waterfowl — Two Tundra Swans and three White-fronted Geese were present at BWMA, November 30 (CW, BPB, LR, D. Ebel). A concentration of 9,000 Snow Geese was noted at BWMA by November 30 with 60% in white phase and 40% blue (CW). A Ross’ Goose was discovered among the 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 7 Snow Geese, November 29 (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). Canada Geese were re¬ ported in small numbers at Freeman Lake, Elizabethtown (DS), Lake Pewee (JH), Glasgow (RS), but 15,000 had reached BWMA by November 30 (CW). The waterfowl migration was rather late. Many observers felt the majority of ducks were still in the north due to the mild fall. Only 7,000 ducks had reached BWMA by November 30, according to Charles Wilkins, manager at BWMA. Fair numbers of dabbling ducks, however, were on schedule: 50 Wood Ducks and 50 Green-winged Teal returned to SWMA, September 7 (BPB). Twenty-five Black Ducks were seen along the Ohio River and at Mayfair Basins, November 8 (JP, BBC); about 150 at Cave Hill Cemetery Lake in early November (S, FS). It was surprising that in a flock of almost 800 ducks and coots on Freeman Lake, November 29, no Black Ducks were seen (DS). This species has shown a decided decrease in recent years. Mallards seemed to be in fair numbers. Largest concentrations of Blue-winged Teal included 400 at SWMA, September 7 (BPB, R. Cassel) ; and 100 at Jonathan Creek, October 5 (KOS). Northern Shovelers were reported from seven locations, but in low numbers. The 24 birds at Lake #9 was the highest number reported (BPB). Gadwalls were late in arriving and first reported at Lake Pewee, November 1 (JH) and 150 had gathered at BWMA by November 30 (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). Twenty American Wigeon were present at SWMA, October 5 (BPB), five at Lake Pewee, October 11 (JH), 16 at Owsley Fork Lake, October 11 (AR), 10 at Louis¬ ville, November 3 and about 75 at BWMA, November 30 (BPB et al.) . Canvasbacks were scarce, but most diving ducks were in fair numbers. Redheads are usually present in low numbers, but 100 plus were noted at Waitsboro Recreational Area, Pulaski County, November 11 (JE1) ; also at five other locations with only one to 18 birds. Ring-necked Ducks reached a maximum of 500 at Lake Pewee, November 17 (JH). Six Greater Scaup were with a flock of Lessers at Markland Dam, November 2 (DN) while eight were seen at Louisville the following day (BPB). Lesser Scaup passed through the Louisville area in fair numbers (200-750) the first week of November (BM, BPB, DN, LR). Three Surf Scoters returned to Louisville, November 3, two on November 14 (BPB) and a White-winged on November 7 (DN). Bufflehead Ducks were reported from six locations with flocks of only 22 and 25 birds. Maximum counts of Hooded Mergansers included 200+ at Lake Barkley, November 29 (DN, J. R. Noonan) and 100 at Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County, November 29 (BA) ; six to 30 in scattered flocks in the Louisville area from November 3 to 6 (JK, BPB) ; six at Lake Pewee (JH). Three Common Mergansers in heavy molt were observed on a bar in Lake Barkley at Kuttawa on the early date of Sep¬ tember 1 (BPB). Red-breasted Mergansers are seldom found on the Cum¬ berland Plateau, but a concentration of 500 was noted at Cave Run Lake, Rowan County, November 29 (BA). Ruddy Ducks were found in small numbers at Freeman Lake (DS), Mayfair Basins, (JP, BBC). Lake Pewee with a high of 77 (JH) and a total of 100 in scattered flocks along the Ohio River at Louisville, November 3 (BPB). Hawks through Cranes — About 30 Turkey Vultures were observed going to a roost at dusk at Green River Lake State Park, September 13 (S, DS, FS). Ospreys were widespread and present in 11 locations from Fulton and Livingston Counties in the western part of the state to Boone in the north and east to Rockcastle County (m.ob.). All records were of single birds with the exception of three at Falls of the Ohio and FCRA, Pulaski County. The eight Mississippi Kites near Lake #9, Fulton County 8 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 on August 5 were probably moving southward (CP, MM, J. T. Erwin). A few Bald Eagles returned in September: one at Holmes Bend, Green River Lake area on the early date of September 14 (S, DS, FS) and one at Lake #9 on September 20 (BPB). Twelve Bald Eagles had reached BWMA by November 30 (CW) and 18 (three of them immatures) were observed at Dale Hollow Lake on the same date (RS et al.) ; four immatures at Lake Barkley on November 29 (DN, J. R. Noonan) ; also recorded at Cave Run Lake (FB). Joan Noel reported an adult Bald Eagle feeding on a duck at Freeman Lake, November 20. A nest was built by a pair of Bald Eagles at BWMA in spring of 1986, but no eggs were laid (CW) ; a pair of adults was frequenting the old nest and moving sticks about on November 13 (L. Andrews fide BPB, CW ) . Northern Harriers were scarce, only three reports of single birds. No sizeable flocks of Sharp-shinned or Cooper’s Hawks were reported, although Cooper’s (in numbers from one to four) were recorded at nine locations (WB, DS, LMc, JE1, BPB) and at least four birds were immatures. In addition to the above birds, a Cooper’s was noted perched on a woodpile, eating its prey, in the writer’s yard (FS). There were eight reports of the Rough-legged Hawk, most of them in the light phase (m.ob.). Members of the Beckham Bird Club observed the rare Merlin on the Surrey Hill Farm, October 26, while on a scheduled field trip (two documentations — DN, BPB, BBC). There was a sharp increase in the number of Peregrine Falcons reported and they were observed from August 5 through November 9 at the following locations: Lake #9, Silo Overlook, Rough River area, Falls of the Ohio, Freeman Lake, east Louis¬ ville, western Franklin County, and downtown Frankfort (m.ob.). Only one bird at the Falls of the Ohio was reported wearing a band. The Yellow Rail, an extremely rare fall transient, flushed and documented at SWMA, October 12 was noteworthy ( DN, C. Justis). Rails were rather unusual at SWMA where three Virginia Rails were noted on October 19 (DN, BPB, C. Justis) ; and a peak of 60 Soras on September 7 (BPB). The two Common Moorhens at Owsley Fork Lake on October 29 were of special interest (AR, TR). Noteworthy concentrations of American Coots included 2,115 at Lake Pewee, November 22 (JH), 600 at Freeman Lake, November 29 (DS), and about 500 in scattered flocks at Louisville, November 3 (BPB). Large flocks of migrant Sandhill Cranes passed over Kentucky during the month of November with the greatest number on November 9 when hundreds were observed in Jefferson, Franklin, Oldham and Shelby Counties; hundreds also in Fayette County on November 13 and in Barren County, November 14 with smaller numbers in Hart and Ballard Counties (m.ob.). Shorebirds — Comments on shorebird migration varied depending on suitable habitat, but best concentrations, as usual, were in western Ken¬ tucky. Despite the mild fall most shorebirds did not linger late in the season. Killdeers peaked at the Falls of the Ohio on September 10 with 225 birds (BPB). Golden and Black-bellied Plovers were scarce: singles of each species were reported at the Falls of the Ohio (LR, BPB, respectively). A single Piping Plover was seen at Jonathan Creek on October 4 (KOS) and was the only one reported. A single American Avocet appeared at the Falls of the Ohio on August 4 (LR, JK), August 11 (JK), three on Sep¬ tember 25 (LR) and one at Jonathan Creek, October 7 (MM). Greater and Lesser Yellow-legs were scarce, but singles of the former species lingered at Mayfair Basins until November 9 (JK) and at Reformatory Lake near Buckner, Oldham County, November 16 (BPB). A single Red Knot in juvenile plumage was seen at the Falls of the Ohio on August 24 (BPB, 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 9 DS), September 2 and 3 and on September 10 (BPB). Five Sanderlings were present at Smithland Dam, October 5 (BPB, D. Ebel). Seventy-five Semipalmated Sandpipers and 30 Western Sandpipers were on Mississippi River sandbars, Carlisle County, on August 31 (BPB) ; fifty of the former species and 12 of the latter were observed at Lake #9, October 4 (BPB). Five Western Sandpipers were observed at Jonathan Creek, Octbober 5 (KOS) and one at FCRA, September 25-27 (JE1). One thousand peeps were present at Lake #9 on October 4 with at least 750 of them Least Sandpipers (BPB) and ±500 there on October 21 (CP). A few Baird’s Sandpipers made their appearance : one to three at the Falls of the Ohio, one in Carlisle County, and two at Lake #9 (BPB) ; seven at Jonathan Creek (LMc, KOS). A single Pectoral Sandpiper returned to the Falls of the Ohio, August 5 (S, FS), but numbers peaked at 35 on August 13 (LR) and September 10 (BPB). Dunlin were in low numbers: three at SWMA, October 19 (BPB), two at FCRA, October 22-27 (JE1), twenty birds was the high at Jonathan Creek (MM) and a high count of 15 at Falls of the Ohio, October 27 (DN). One to two Stilt Sandpipers were at Jonathan Creek from August 30 to October 19 (MM); one at SWMA, October 19 (BPB) and a high count of 30 birds at Lake #9, October 4 (BPB). Buff¬ breasted Sandpipers were scarce: singles at Falls of the Ohio, September 10 and 16, probably the same bird (BPB). One to five Short-billed Dow- itchers were present at Lake #9 from August 31 - September 20; two Long¬ billed were at Jonathan Creek, October 4 (BPB, KOS) and six at Lake #9, call notes heard for all birds (BPB). Common Snipe were recorded in low numbers at seven locations with the earliest on August 23 at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) ; singles also at Lentz’s Pond, September 14 (LR), FCRA, September 26 (JE1). Jonathan Creek, October 5 (BPB); six at SWMA, August 30 (BPB, C. Justis), five at Campbellsville Reservoir, October 11 (JE1), but three as late as November 28 at Lake Pewee (JH) and four at Clark Fish Hatchery, November 29 (BA). A single Wilson’s Phalarope at Jonathan Creek, August 30, was the only one reported (CP, MM). Gulls through Terns — Three first-year Laughing Gulls were observed above Kentucky Dam on October 25 (BPB, D. Ebel). In recent years this species has become a rare, but a regular vagrant along the Ohio River and at the dams in western Kentucky. There were seven records of Franklin’s Gull, a rare transient in Kentucky. A single bird, fully documented, at Hamlin Island, Calloway County, August 9 was unusually early and es¬ tablished an early state date (MM, J. Erwin); other Frankin’s included singles above Barkley Dam, September 30 (BPB), October 3 (MF), Jon¬ athan Creek, October 5 (KOS) ; Boyd’s Landing on North Lake Barkley, October 5 and four there on October 25 and three November 9 (BPB). The only concentration of Bonaparte’s Gulls occurred at Jonathan Creek, No¬ vember 30 with ± 100 birds (CP). About 30-35 were reported at Lake Barkley, November 29 (DN, BPB) ; three at Waitsboro Recreational Area, November 14 (JEl) and one at Clark Fish Hatchery, November 29 (BA). Eight Ring-billed Gulls were present at Kentucky Lake on August 12 (MM, CP), but numbers built up to 200 by November 8-9 (BPB); 180 had reached Barkley Dam by September 1, but some 2000 to 2500 were at Barkley and Kentucky Lakes on November 29 (BPB, DN) ; 300 at Smith- land Dam, November 9 (BPB) and a high count of 166 at the Falls of the Ohio (DS). Herring Gulls also arrived at the above dams in western Kentucky, but in low numbers, the high count being 50 each at northern 10 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Lake Barkley and northern Kentucky Lake on November 29 (BPB) ; one at Jonathan Creek (CP) ; 10 at the Fails of the Ohio, November 22 (DS). Caspian Terns arrived in small numbers and were present at the fol¬ lowing locations: Hamlin Island (MM, CP), Smithland Dam (BPB), Falls of the Ohio (BPB, LR, JK), Taylorsville Lake (K. Prather fide BPB), and FCRA (JE1). Only one to four Common Terns were reported: at Smith- land Dam, Kentucky Dam (BPB, D. Ebel) ; Falls of the Ohio (LR) ; and Green River Lake area (S. FS, DS). Fair numbers of Forster’s Terns were present with 50 at Boyd’s Landing along northern Lake Barkley and 25 at Lake Barkley at Kuttawa, October 5 (BPB) ; six at Louisville, September 24 (LR) ; one at Newburgh, Henderson County, September 7 and one still present at Kuttawa, November 29 (BPB). Twelve Least Terns were observed at Lake #9 on August 5 (CP, MM, J. T. Erwin), three juveniles there August 31 (BPB); seven at Hamlin Islands, August 12 (MM) ; 10 in Carlisle County, August 31 (BPB) ; one at Green River Lake, September 14 (DS, FS) and two below McAlpine Dam, September 24 (LR). Black Terns were more numerous than usual: 40 at Hamlin Islands, Aug¬ ust 9 (MM, CP); 15 in Carlisle County, August 31 (BPB); 11 at Louis¬ ville, September 24 (LR); and four at FCRA, September 27 (JE1). Oivls through Woodpeckers — The sighting of the Barn Owl at Bur¬ lington, Boone County, September 12, was of interest since the species is seldom seen (LMc). A Short-eared Owl was flushed from a weedy patch at SWMA, October 9 (BPB, LR, D. Parker, D. Knopf, D. Ebel) ; and another in southwestern Oldham County, November 16 (BPB). A Saw-whet Owl was picked up on the roadside at High Grove, Nelson County, Novem¬ ber 11, by Jeff Andriot and subsequently brought to the Louisville Zoo. The bird apparently had been temporarily stunned by a car and when it was certain there was no injury it was taken to the Palmer-Ball Farm where it was banded by the writer and released on November 16. A fairly good Common Nighthawk migration occurred from August 23 to September 6 in central Kentucky with several flocks of 500+ along 1-71 and Westport Road (DN), about 500 over the Falls of the Ohio (JK), some 200 over Science Hill, Pulaski County (JE1), at Louisville over the Outer Loop 150 (DS) and 105 at Berea (AR, TR). Late stragglers included one at Louis¬ ville on October 25 (BN) and one heard at Bowling Green, November 7 (BF). Two Chuck-will-widows were calling in Calloway County on the late date of September 9 (MM). Due to the mild fall some Ruby-throated Hummingbirds remained until October 3 at Berea (AR) and at Fort Mitchell, October 4 (EG) ; others had them at feeders, or flowers, late in October ( fide BPB). A hummingbird was present at a feeding station in mid-November and reported without details as a Ruby-throated. All No¬ vember hummingbirds should be carefully identified since there is the likelihood that late hummingbirds may be western strays. In recent years vagrant Selasphorus birds have been critically identified and photographed in adjacent states. The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker arrived later than usual and was first observed at Louisville, October 6 (DN). Swallows through Wrens — There were no large flocks of Purple Martins this fall except for the 100+ in east Louisville, August 22 (DN) ; twelve were still present September 20 at Lake #9 with a flock of 1500- 2000 Tree Swallows on September 20 (BPB). At least more than four Northern Rough-winged Swallows were noted at Mayfield Creek and Ky. Hwy. 121 on October 17 (CP). The report of an active colony of at 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 least 12 nests of the Cliff Swallow on US-127 over Goose Creek in Casey County from KYDFWS came too late for the Nesting- Season Report, but was noteworthy since it adds a new County to its breeding range in Ken¬ tucky. Twenty-five of the latter species were seen near Science Hill on August 31, where they are seldom recorded in fall (JE1). Six Barn Swal¬ lows were rather late at Mayfield Creek, October 17, one also at Jonathan Creek, October 19 (CP) ; an albino was noted at Science Hill on August 12 ( J El ) . A few Fish Crows were heard calling in a large flock of 75 crows near Laketon, Carlisle County, August 31 and a few there on September 21 (BPB). The only Red-breasted Nuthatches reported were singles at Fishing Creek Recreational Area, October 6 (JE1) and at Louisville, Oc¬ tober 18 (BPB). The two Bewick’s Wrens in Hart County, October 15 were the only ones reported (SK). Good numbers of Winter Wrens had arrived at Clark Park, Louisville, October 6 and 13 (BS, DD). Four Sedge Wrens were present at Reelfoot NWR, Fulton County, September 1, where they were observed last season; two at SWMA, October 12; and one at Louisville, October 18 (BPB). The only Marsh Wrens reported were the two to five at SWMA between September 7 and October 19 (BPB and latter observa¬ tion with BBC) . Thrushes through Warblers — It was encouraging to see 35 Eastern Bluebirds on the morning of September 27 on the Abell Farm, Oldham County (BBC). Two flocks of American Robins totaling 200+ birds were noted flying southwest over east Louisville, August 26 (S). The peak count of Water Pipits on the Surrey Hill Farm was 75 on November 10 (BPB). Cedar Waxwings were scarce; a flock of 25 during the week of October 5 at Valley Station was the only one reported (DS). Loggerhead Shrikes seemed to be increasing in Hart County (SK). Philadelphia Vireos lingered quite late: one at Valley Station, October 2 (DS) and at Berea, October 10 (AR, TR). The warbler migration was rather drawn out, a few species arrived in August, but there were no early dates with the exception of the Nashville Warbler. There was a large bird kill at TV Tower WGRB, Columbia, Adair County, October 10; fifteen species of warblers were found on the ground (JE1). Several Blue and Golden-winged Warblers at Creason Park, Louisville, October 10, established late state dates (DN, S. Theiss, R. Lehman). A Brewster’s hybrid was noted with Blue-winged on the Surrey Hill Farm, August 24 (BPB). An Orange-crowned Warbler at Valley Station, October 2 (DS) and one at Louisville, October 26 (BPB) were the only ones reported. A Nashville at Surrey Hill Farm, August 24 was early (BPB) while one lingered at Berea, November 17, providing a late date (AR, TR). A Northern Parula apparently “dazed, but unhurt, was caught near the base of the WGRB-TV tower” and released at Science Hill the following day (JE1). A Black-throated Blue Warbler was seen at Berea, September 16-17 (AR). The Black-throated Gray Warbler, the rar¬ est bird of the season, was documented and photographed at Lexington Cemetery, Fayette County, November 28-29 (BA). Among the records of warblers tarrying later than usual, presumably because of the mild fall, were the following: a Yellow-throated Warbler at Berea, November 10-11 (AR, TR), a Bay-breasted in south-central Louisville, November 15 (RH), a Kentucky Warbler at Glasgow, October 16 and 31 (RS) and a Wilson’s in Marshall County, November 30 (JR). A dead Blackpoll Warbler, prob¬ ably two days old, was found on the University of Louisville campus, Oc¬ tober 11, where it apparently hit the library window (BPB). Sparrows through Grosbeaks — Two Sharp-tailed Sparrows were noted 12 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 at SWMA, October 12 (BPB, DN, LR, C. Justis). Good numbers of Swamp Sparrows arrived at SWMA where some 200-300 were present on October 12 (DN, BPB, C. Justis). A good migration of White-throated Sparrows was noted at Clark Park, Louisville, October 6 when about 100 were seen (BS). Rusty Blackbirds were late in arriving (DN) and first observed on November 10 at Surrey Hill (BPB). A large blackbird roost was reported in Fern Creek, Jefferson County with a count of 1,105,000 birds on No¬ vember 12. According to Dr. Burt L. Monroe, Jr., who made the count, the species percentages were: Starling 45%; Common Grackle 35%; Red¬ winged 10%, and Brown-headed Cowbird 10%. On November 20 the roost had decreased to 1,046,000 birds with 5% fewer Starlings, 5%more graekles and no change in the percentages for the cowbird and red-wing, but a trace of Rusty Blackbirds. Also noted were a pure albino Common Grackle and a pure dilute Starling (BM). Purple Finches were very scarce, but House Finches continued to increase, particularly, at Science Hill (JE1), Bowling Green (HS) and at Louisville (S). Evening Grosbeaks were practically absent with singles noted only at Big Pond Sanctuary, October 18 (KC) and at Louisville, November 25 (BPB, BM, S). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Fred Busroe (FB), W. H. Brown (WB), John Callahan (JC), Kathryn Clay (KC), Don Devitt (DD), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Blaine Ferrell (BF), Michael Flynn (MF), Ed Groneman (EG), James W. Hancock (JH), Richard Healy (RH), John Krull (JK), Steve Kistler (SK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Robert Morris (RM), Barry Nichols (BN), Joan Noel (JN), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Jim Pasikowski (JP), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Arthur Ricketts (AR), Tina Ricketts (TR), John Robinson (JR), B. Shannon (BS), Russell Starr (RS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Wilkins (CW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT 1986-1987 Reports of 20 counts were received from across the state. A total of 112 species was observed on count days, 102 of which are represented on the table. Those species represented by a single bird observed only on one count are not included on the table. These include: an immature Golden Eagle (Land Between the Lakes), Green-backed Heron (Bernheim Forest), House Wren, Palm Warbler and Vesper Sparrow (Louisville), Snow Bunt¬ ing ( Shelbyville) , Gray Catbird (Lexington), Bewick’s Wren (Danville), Common Barn Owl (Burlington) and a Ruffed Grouse (Perry County). Twelve species were recorded on all counts and 14 species were noted only on a single count. The additional sightings of a Chipping Sparrow (Louis¬ ville) and Northern Pintail (Shelbyville and Danville) during the count period brought the species total to 114. There were seven fewer species this year than last. The consistently milder weather this winter may have accounted for the reduced numbers of waterfowl and northern finch species. Waterfowl numbers were down from last year, particularly the numbers of Canada Geese (3,587 last year vs. 832 this year). Both the American Black Duck 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 and Mallard were reduced in numbers. Purple Finches were present in the lowest numbers in over ten years with only 203 sighted. Evening Grosbeaks were also scarce. The mild weather may have also accounted for the number of lingering summer residents, such as the Green-backed Heron, House Wren, Gray Catbird, and Chipping Sparrow. The below average wild food crop resulting from the summer drought was also cited as a reason for reduced numbers on several counts. Although not dramatic, several trends are interesting to note. Eastern Bluebirds increased in numbers only slightly over last year. The House Finch continued to increase in numbers, though not to the same extent as last year’s increase. In conjunction with the increase in House Finches it is interesting to note the similar decrease in House Sparrow numbers; again, not as significant as the decrease in numbers reported last year. Thanks are sincerely extended to all participants, particularly those who submitted verification forms on unusual sightings. Thanks are also extended to participants that included comments of interest regarding unusual weather conditions, habitat changes and sightings. CALLOWAY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Douglas Cemetery.) Habitat 20% lake shore and streams, 20% de¬ ciduous and pine woods, 25% urban and residential and 35% pastures and open fields. Jan. 3; 5:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sky clear a.m. to partly cloudy in p.m.; temp. 23°F to 41°F; wind SE, 1-4 m.p.h. 10 observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 48 (21 on foot, 27 by car). Total party-miles 326 (24.5 on foot, 301.5 by car). Total species 83; total individuals 7752. The Black-crowned Night Herons (B.H.) were a good find, although not so surprising since we do have a heronry about 12 miles east of our area. The large mixed roost of vultures (about one-third Black) has ap¬ parently existed in the area for a number of years. Observers: Happy Chambers (compiler), Joe Tom Erwin, Bob Head, Diane Kurtz, Sally Leedom, Carl Mowery, Mike Miller, Clell Peterson and Lawrence and LuAnn Philpot. LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES (all points within a 15-mile dia¬ meter circle, center Pisgah Bay Picnic Ground.) Habitat lake and stream shores 40%, deciduous and pine woods 22%, overgrown and cultivated fields 28% and residential and small business 10%. Dec. 20: 5:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 27°F to 37°F; wind SW, 1-3 m.p.h. Other weather comment: thin ice in bays, stock ponds and puddles frozen. 15 observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 58.5 (36 on foot, 22.5 by car). Total party-miles 663 (20.5 on foot, 642.5 by car). Total species 85; total individuals 12,835. The Starling roost at Kentucky Dam, in continuous existence since 1970, appears to be almost non-existent. The apparent number at this roost this season is between 2000 (CP) and 3000 (BPB), a dramatic de¬ cline from the perhaps inflated estimate of 2 million in 1976 (CP). The absence of unusual shorebirds found on the two previous mid-winter counts is probably due to the unusual rise of the lakes in December which covered most of the choice mud- and sandflats. While stopping waterfowl further north, the mild weather may have held some species in this area. American Coots were abundant on both lakes, and ten Common Loons (2 parties) and 54 Great Blue Herons (4 out of 7 parties) were typical of the season. The 29 Bald Eagles were excellent for the count. Bob Smith flew an aerial survey on December 19, covering the entire LBL, and reported a total of 14 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 88 Bald Eagles (no Golden Eagles) in both Kentucky and Tennessee, divided into 55 adults and 33 immatures. The Golden Eagle was observed by Ed Ray, an experienced birder: he saw the bird perching and in flight — dark banded tail, white patches under elbows and beige gold wash on head and shoulders. Observers: Sharon Atherton, Wally Brines, Happy Chambers, David Chiles, Jack and Lorine Dodd, Joe Tom Erwin, Rick Hokans, Mike Miller, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Clell Peterson (compiler), Lawrence and LuAnn Philpot, Ed Ray and Stephen Washburn. MARION (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Forest Grove.) Habitat river, open cropland, brush and woods. Dec. 21; 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 28°F to 55°F; wind NE, 0-5 m.p.h. Other weather comment: heavy frost. 2 observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 11.5 (8.5 on foot, 3 by car). Total party-miles 25 (5 on foot, 20 by car). Total species 37 ; total individuals 822. Observers: C. L. Frazer (compiler) and Jim Frazer. SORGHO (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Ky. 279 and Audubon Parkway.) Habitat meadows, small woodlands, large woods, ditches, road sides and the Green and Ohio Rivers. Dec. 27; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 30°F to 38°F; wind 5-8 m.p.h. Other weather comments: very dense clouds — few birds were stirring. 12 observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 78 (48 on foot, 30 by car). Total party-miles 92 (31 on foot, 61 by car). Total species 44; total individuals 4196. Observers: Frances Bell, Tony Eaden, Joe Ford, Neil Hayden, Tommy Hicks, John Humphrey, Eleanor lies, Ray lies, Terry Snell, Thomas Steven¬ son, Ed Wilson (compiler) and Elinor Wilson. YELVINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center intersection of U.S. 60 and 405 at Maceo, Ky.) Habitat Ohio River Bot¬ toms, creek bottoms, farm fields, woods and feeders. Dec. 20; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky overcast with occasional sun; temp. 35°F to 42°F; wind 0-10 m.p.h. 12 observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 27 (20 on foot, 7 by car). Total party -miles 37 (11 on foot, 26 by car). Total species 56; total individuals 985. Seen in area during count period but not on count day: Cooper’s Hawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and Northern Harrier. Several days before the count and the next day after the count, we found a great abundance of Pine Siskins, but the day of the count only 10. The Winter Wren was in the yard of Marvin and Maudie Ray. This year we included in our count area the Yellow-creek County Park at Thurston, Kentucky. This inclusion gave us some excellent habitat as the park has a lake, creek bottoms and some massive trees. Observers: Frances Bell, Johny Bonfordice, Mike Brown, Brenda Eaden, Tony Eaden, Neil Hayden, Tom Hicks, John Humphrey, Joyce Porter, A. L. Powell (compiler), Millie Powell, Marvin and Maudie Ray (feeder and yard observation), Rose Ann Radzelovage and Terry Snell. HANCOCK COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Patesville.) Habitat woodland, open fields and creeks. Dee. 28; 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 32°F to 37°F; wind N, 0-5 m.p.h. 2 observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 6 (5 on foot, 1 by car). Total party- miles 17 (5 on foot, 12 by car). Total species 25; total individuals 82. A few days before we took the count a group of about 15 Bluebirds were sighted. Observers: Rose Ann (compiler) and Walter Radzelovage. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 15 BOWLING GREEN (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Three Springs 6 miles south of Bowling Green. Habitat same as the previous count. Dec. 20; 6:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 30°F to 5l°F; wind NNW, 0-3 m.p.h. 10 observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 17 (13 on foot, 4 by car). Total party-miles 99 (13 on foot, 86 by car). Total species 56; total individuals 9241. Seen during the count period but not on count day: Red-breasted Nuthatch, Gray Cat¬ bird and Purple Finch. The low species number may have been due to mild weather conditions. Several species normally recorded (Red-breasted Nuthatch, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Purple Finch and Fox Sparrow) have been observed in recent days but not on the count day. House Finches are rapidly increasing in number. Observers: Donnie Bryant, Ronnie Bryant, Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, Wayne Mason, Bill Mathes, Simeon Pickard, H. E. Shadowen (compiler), Allen Stickley, Jr. and Kathy Taylor. MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK (center and habitat as des¬ cribed in 1980.) Dec. 21; 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky foggy to partly cloudy; temp. 19°F to 40°F; wind NW, 0-5 m.p.h. 5 observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 24 (8 on foot, 16 by car). Total party-miles 112 (14 on foot, 98 by car). Total species 44; total individuals 664. Two parties observed the mature Bald Eagle perched in a snag upriver from Houchen’s Ferry. Wild Turkeys were observed both at the north and south ends of the park. Observers: Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Marquita Gillenwater, Jeff Jones, Wayne Mason and Herb E. Shadowen. GLASGOW (center and habitat as described in 1986.) Jan. 1; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky overcast in a.m. to clear in p.m. Temp. 21°F to 37°F; wind NW, 0-5 m.p.h. 8 observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 52 (12 on foot, 40 by car). Total party-miles 123 (13 on foot, 110 by car). Total species 62; total individuals 2919. Waterfowl numbers were disappointingly low, and other (usually com¬ mon) species such as Turkey and Black Vultures, Brown Creepers, Com¬ mon Grackles and Brown-headed Cowbirds were either absent or present in very low numbers. The increase in numbers of Carolina Wrens, Eastern Bluebirds and sparrows is encouraging. Observers: Mrs. Clifton Follis, Mrs. James Gillenwater, Mr. and Mrs. Howard M. Jones, Wayne M. Mason (compiler), Mrs. Billie Moore and Dr. and Mrs. Russell Starr. HART COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center same as 1985.) Habitat pond and surrounding forest, farm fields, woodlots and small towns. Dec. 30; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; Temp. 25°F to 35°F; wind light. Other weather comment: occasional drizzle. 3 observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 11 (9 on foot, 2 by car). Total party-miles 85 (10 on foot, 75 by car). Total species 40; total individuals 929. The results of the count were received too late to be included on the table. No unusual species were recorded. Fourteen bluebirds and 30 Purple Finches are worth mentioning. Observers: Steve Kistler (compiler), Cap Middleton and Mitch Sturgeon. 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J3 D20 D21 D27 D20 D28 D20 D21 J1 D28 J1 D21 J3 D27 J3 D20 D20 D27 D23 J1 NUMBER OF SPECIES . 83 85 37 44 56 25 56 44 62 62 57 83 48 55 44 75 57 48 39 40 INDIVIDUALS . 7752 12835 822 4196 985 82 9241 664 2919 £608 4353 30719 2707 5640 1628 6614 30741 2888 255 1036 OBSERVERS 1 0 1 5 2 1 2 1 2 2 10 5 8 1 1 1 5 33 2 21 8 32 22 14 1 3 *Birds observed during the count period. 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 OTTER CREEK PARK (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972). Habitat brushy fields 24%, woodlands 25%, farmland 26%, hedge row 10%, residential 2% and rivers and ponds 13%. December 28; 7:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. Sky cloudy to clear in afternoon; temp. 32°F to 37°F; wind NW, 0-6 m.p.h. Only two species of ducks were recorded on the count. Hawks were fairly well represented, with the American Kestrel in higher numbers than on any previous count. Northern Flickers and Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were down in numbers, while Tufted Titmice and Carolina Wrens were up in numbers from the past three years. American Robins, Cedar Wax- wings and Yellow-rumped Warblers were unusually scarce. Juniper trees were without berries and may have been a factor in the scarcity of wild fruit-eating species. White-throated Sparrows showed a 51-plus percent decrease over last year and Red-breasted Nuthatches hit an all-time high on the count. Observers: Mary B. Bauer, Smith Hundley, Frank Krull, Barry Nichols, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, Lene Rauth, Anne Stamm (compiler), Frederick W. Stamm and Donald Summer- field. BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974.) Jan. 1; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky variable; temp. 25°F to 39°F; NW, 0-10 m.p.h. Most water frozen. 15 observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 36.5 (18.5 on foot, 18 by car). Total party-miles 180 (12 on foot, 168 by car). Total species 57; total individuals 4853. Although weather conditions were excellent for the count, fewer ob¬ servers combined with an unusually dull season for a near record low for the number of species. The count lacked noteworthy sightings with the exception of the Green-backed Heron observed on Cox’s Creek in Nelson County. The bird was flushed from the stream and was well described (Dunns, Johnson and Smith). As noted on other counts, numbers of robins, waxwings and Yellow-rumped Warblers are unusually low this year. Red¬ breasted Nuthatches and Pine Siskins were observed in good numbers. Observers: Jane Bell, Pat Bell, George Crabtree, Rex and Marjorie Dunn, Diane Ebel, Wendy Fidao, Marilyn Homan, Brian Johnson, Marion Jones, Tim Love, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Martha Pike, Tony Smith and Larry Ysunza. LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center jet. Hwys. 42 and 22, as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 21; 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky clear to cloudy; 20°F to 40°F; wind variable, 0-5 m.p.h. Ponds mostly frozen. 33 observers in 11 parties. Total party-hours 94 (53 on foot, 41 by car). Total party-miles 546 (43 on foot, 503 by car). Total species 83; total individuals 30,719. Observers: Mary Bauer, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Pat Berla, Don Black¬ burn, K. W. Clay, Muriel Doolittle, Diane Ebel, D. L. Garst, Wayne Hinkle, Marian Jones, Frank Krull, Jr., Frank Krull, Sr., John Krull, B. L. Mon¬ roe, Jr. (compiler), K. L. Mudd, Dottie Muntan, Barry Nichols, Doxie Noonan, J. R. Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Donald Parker, Martha Pike, Bob Quaife, Lene Rauth, Virginia Rommel, Carl Schultz, Anne Stamm, F. W. Stamm, Donald Summerfield, Midge Susie, Stephen Washburn, Rob¬ ert Zaremba (Beckham Bird Club). SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 1987 THHE KENTUCKY WARBLER 21 .75 miles south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on KY Highway 714.) Habitat elevation 640’ - 1190’, farm land, fallow land, residential, wooded and grassland. Jan. 3; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky overcast until 4:00 p.m. then partial cloudiness; temp. 18°F to 38°F; wind W-NW, 1-8 m.p.h. 2 observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (0 on foot, 10 by car). Total party-miles 160 (0 on foot, 160 by car). Total species 48; total individuals 2707. Observers: W. Todd Brown and W. Horace Brown (compiler). FRANKFORT (center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 27, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 32°F to 35°F; wind NE 7-10 m.p.h. No snow, all water open. 21 observers in 14 parties. Total party-hours 71.5 (32.5 on foot, 39 by car). Total party-miles 477 (41 on foot, 436 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 5640. This is the lowest species count for Frankfort since the 1971-72 count, though numbers of individuals were about average for common species. The wild food crop is below average which may be a partial explanation. Water birds were not to be found and hawks, other than the Red-tailed and Kestrels, were absent. The most noticeable increases for our count are House Finches and both Nuthatches continuing a trend of recent years. Observers: W. H. Brown, Stuart Butler, Rose Canon, Manton Cornett, Peggey Durbin, James Durell, Margaret Frymire, Charles and Mary Gray¬ son, Kristen, Pat and Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Howard Jones (compiler), Jeffrey Jones, Margaret LaFontaine, James Rettig, Ken and Teresa Rollins, Jim Williams and Tim Williams. KLEBER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (center and habitat as described in 1977.) Jan. 3; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy to partly cloudy; temp. 25°F to 36°F; wind SW, 5-7 m.p.h. Water partially frozen, .5 inches of snow on the ground early. 8 observers in 4 parties. Total party- hours 26 (15.5 on foot, 10.5 by car). Total party-miles 162 (15 on foot, 147 by car). Total species 44; total individuals 1628. Waterbirds were not to be found and several common species were absent. The wild food crop was poor for this area with low counts for American Robins, Cedar Waxwings and Purple Finches. The House Finch, a female, was found by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Diane Ebel, and is the first reported for the Owen County area on our count. Observers: Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Diane Ebel, Howard Jones (compiler), Margaret LaFontaine, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Audra Thompson and Jim Williams. LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman and Tates Creek Road.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 20; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 19°F to 32°F; wind N, 5-6 m.p.h. 32 observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 58 (20 on foot, 38 by car). Total party-miles 286 (26 on foot, 260 by car). Total species 75; total in¬ dividuals 6614. Seems like the drought and weather have reduced the food supply here and consequently the number of birds is way down. Our crow roost was outside the count area this year. Observers: Brad Andres, Richard Barbee, Earl Boggs, Ann Bradley, Eugene Bradly, Rose Canon, Manton Cornett, Ruth Davis, Ron Duncan, Jean Flynn, Mike Flynn, Johnathan Glixon, Terry Koontz, Betty Maxson, Sarah McClellan, Bob McNeece, Robert Morris (compiler), Rosemary Petty, 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 53 Tom Rae, Glenn Raliegh, Jerry Reece, Philippe Rocca, Lewis Shain, Jo Stofer, Marie Sutton, Andy Uterhart, Marion Uterhart, Sally Wasielewski, Tim Williams, Jim Wilson, Bernice Woods and Jim Wood. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat 10.75% residential, 6.25% lakesides, 14% woodland, 56.25% farmland, 10.25% streamsides and 2.5% parks. Dec. 20; 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 25°F to 50°F; wind 0 m.p.h. Un¬ seasonably nice and warm. 22 obsei-vers in 8 parties. Total party-hours 55.7 (16.25 on foot, 39.45 by car). Total party-miles 506 (19.5 on foot, 486.5 by car). Total species 57; total individuals 30,741. Observers: Chauncey Alcock, Ron Barbato, Molly Caldwell, Neil (com¬ piler) and Virginia Eklund, Mrs. Tom Foster, Tobin Foster, John Gower, Mike Hamm, Edna Heck, Morton Hoaglund, J. W. Kemper, F. W. Loetscher, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, John B. Nichols, Rob Pendygraft, Les Reid, Joe and Lee Russell, Charles Vahlkamp and Greg Wagner. BURLINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Camp Michaels near Union, Kentucky.) Habitat woodland and forest edge 40%, farmland 25%, streams, lakes and river 25% and residential 10%. Dec. 27; 6:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 30°F to 33°F; wind SW, 0-8 m.p.h. Most water was open. 14 observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 30.7 (15 on foot, 15.7 by car). Total party-miles 291 (9 on foot, 282 by car). Total species 48; total individuals 2888. A mild winter leading up to the count date contributed to few unusual sightings. The Common Barn Owl at East Bend was the day’s best find. Waterfowl and gulls were particularly scarce, but the 12 Great Blue Herons were a high count. Observers: Brenda Bellamy, Vivian Brun, Joe Caminiti, Kathy Cam- initi, Elaine Carroll, Joanne Conradi, Stan Hirtle, Carolyn Johnson, John Johnson, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (compiler), George Schoen, Tommy Stephens and Bill Steuver. Feeder watchers were Marjorie Hill, Ed Kenne¬ dy, Lynda McNeely, Carmen Schulte and Carolyn VanHuss. PERRY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Bonnyman, Kentucky.) Habitat deciduous woodlands, field, reclaimed strip mine land, woodland edge and small ponds. Dec. 23; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky cloudy, light rain in p.m.; 40° F to 50° F; wind calm. 1 observer in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (9 on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles 30. Total species 39; total individuals 255. Barn Owls were essentially absent from the area as were Great Horned Owls. Very few birds were to be found on recently mined land. More birds return to mined land after several years pass and plant diversity (i.e., weeds with seeds and berry producing plants) improves and, I suppose, some topsoil regenerates. Observer: Don Spencer (compiler). WEST LIBERTY : (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 55’ N; 83 15'W.) Habitat woods, open fields, river bottoms. Jan. 1; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 33°F to 38°F; wind NE, 10 m.p.h. Snow mixed with rain. 3 observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (6 on foot, 4 by car). Total party-miles 16 (4 on foot, 14 by car). Total species 40; total individuals 1036. Water was open. Observers: Garry Lee Elam (compiler), Mary K. Elam and Francis Peyton. One observer was at home at a feeder. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 BOOK REVIEW THE MIGRATIONS OF HAWKS, by Donald S. Heintzelman. Indiana University Press, Bloomington and Indianapolis, 1986; pp. xiv & 370; 17 figs., 5 maps; $35.00. As the author states in the preface, this book is basically a second edition of his 1975 “Autumn Hawk Flights.” Though updated and broad¬ ened to include spring flights, the new edition contains about 15 fewer pages and only one photograph (on the dust jacket) vs. 88 before. The price seems high and the title misleading. A reader expecting information on the spectacular raptor migrations over such well known focal points as Fasterbo or the Bosphorus, for example, will be disappointed, because Heintzelman strictly limits himself to the western hemisphere. Except for a few pages on Central America and the West Indies, coverage is virtually restricted to Canada and the U.S. with particular emphasis on our northeastern states where so much research on hawk migration has been carried on, a large amount of it by the author himself. The text has four main divisions. Part I (“History and Field Study Methods”) features migration seasons, and speed and distance of migra¬ tion. I was interested to read that a radio-tagged Peregrine was tracked from Wisconsin to Mexico continuously for 20 days, and that another Pere¬ grine banded as a nestling in Canada’s Northwest Territories was killed only 174 days later in Argentina — about 9000 miles away, having averaged over 51 miles per day! Part II (“The Hawk Lookouts”) is a detailed 170-page roster of selected sites from Alaska to Panama from which migrating hawks have been reported. Here Heintzelman’s knowledge of pertinent literature is most evident. For example, the Kentucky section details flights at 16 sites and mentions about 20 persons who have published on them. As a rule, each sighting is followed by the observer’s name and date of publication. Duly amplified, these are brought together in the 62-page Literature Cited appendix, a meticulously prepared and impressive compilation. Many readers will find Part III (“Hawk Migrations and Weather Conditions”) especially stimulating. Some of the factors briefly treated are: wind directions and velocity, cloud cover, temperature, barometric pressure, and deflective updrafts. The chapter on thermals I found par¬ ticularly instructive thanks to two clear diagrams. Heintzelman has as¬ sembled many data on the heights at which hawks migrate — from the more usual two to three thousand feet up exceptionally to over 20,000 ! Hawk watchers in autumn have often noticed a marked decrease of mi¬ grants around mid-day. Heintzelman and others believe these “noon lulls” result from thermals carrying the raptors up too high to be visible from the ground. Part IV (“Migration Routes, Geography, and Hawk Counts”) includes information on age classes, broad-front migrations, diversion-lines, and abandonment of flight-lines. As a possible (or probable) example of the last-named, Heintzelman believes it likely that ancestors of the Broad¬ winged Hawks now resident on certain islands in the West Indies “became trapped there and could not leave easily because of their dependency upon thermal soaring. Eventually they evolved into the various subspecies now found there.” The final chapter underlines the difficulties of assessing widespread 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol.63 population trends in hawks simply by counting migrants at a relatively few lookouts. Though Mr. Heintzelman is a prolific author, he has not rushed this book into print. It is well written, well indexed, and almost free of errors throughout. Within his self-imposed geographic limits he has given us a first-rate account of this fascinating subject. Omitted, however, is any mention of whether or not hawks rely extensively on fat reserves for their migrations. — Frederick W. Loetscher, Jr., 2064 Cardinal Dr., Danville, Kentucky 40422. FIELD NOTE SAW-WHET OWL IN GRAYSON COUNTY On November 9, 1986 at the side of the pavement along Highway 79, one-half mile south of the intersection of Highways 79 and 54 in the com¬ munity of Short Creek, I found a small dead owl. After comparing the specimen with pictures in the field guide, I concluded that it was a mature Saw-whet Owl. Don Borman of the Owensboro Area Museum staff substan¬ tiated the identification. The bird was turned over to the museum for their collection. In a lifetime of exploring the out-of-doors this is my second encounter with the Saw-whet Owl. Dr. Robert Mengel (Birds of Kentucky, Ornitholo¬ gical Monograph #3, A.O.U.) comments on the infrequency of sightings of the Saw-whet Owl in Kentucky. The Saw-whet Owl has been reported in Jefferson County in 1983 (Ky. Warbler, 61). Also mentioned in this report was the small number of records of the Saw-whets in Kentucky. — Joyce L. Porter, P.O. Box 55, Falls of the Rough, Kentucky. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. SPRING MEETING The Kentucky Ornithological Society will hold its annual spring meet¬ ing at Cumberland Falls State Park on April 24-26. Please mark your calendars, make reservations early and keep your fingers crossed for a good spring warbler migration. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 63 MAY, 1987 NO. 2 ALBERT R. MANN LIBRARY JUL - 8 1987 ITHACA, N.Y. 1485? ■*%', '?'V IN THIS ISSUE THE MIGRATION PATTERNS OF SELECTED EMBERIZIDS AND FRINGILLIDS IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Gary Ritchison 27 THE WINTER SEASON, 1986-1987, Anne L. Stamm 35 THE K.O.S. SPRING MEETING 39 FIELD NOTES . 41 NEWS AND VIEWS 44 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Fred Busroe, Morehead Vice-President Jim William, Lexington Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Recording Secretary Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors : Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro 1985-1987 1985- 1987 1986- 1988 1986-1988 Retiring President Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for our cover photograph of this chilly incu¬ bating Killdeer taken in April. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 THE MIGRATION PATTERNS OF SELECTED EMBERIZIDS AND FRINGILLIDS IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY Gary Ritchison INTRODUCTION A variety of methods have been used to study the migration of birds, e.g., radar, radiotelemetry, and ceilometers. However, most studies of bird migration involve field work with no more equipment than a pair of binoculars. Much of what is known about the seasonal timing of bird mi¬ gration in North America and in Kentucky comes from such studies. Much, however, remains to be learned. For example, although early or late mi¬ gration dates may be known, the time of peak migration or the length of time that individuals remain in an area may not be known. Such informa¬ tion is more difficult to collect because some method is needed to determine relative numbers or to identify individuals. The objective of the present study was to use mist nets to collect information concerning the timing and extent of migration of several emberizids and fringillids in Madison County, Kentucky. Specifically, the objective was to examine the extent and timing of migration of the Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla), Fox Sparrow ( Passerella iliaca), Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia), White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), White-crowned Sparrow (Z. leucophrys), Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) , Purple Finch (Carpodacus purpureus) , and House Finch (C. mexicanus) . METHODS AND MATERIALS This study was undertaken from 1 January 1983 through 10 March 1985 at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, located 17 km SSE of Richmond, Madison Co., Kentucky. The area is characterized by low rolling hills and consists of old fields and corn fields interspersed with woodlots of varying sizes and with tree-lined streams. Common plant species in the old fields included meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis), foxtail (Se- taria spp.j, Japanese bromegrass (Bromus japonicus) , daisy fleabane (Erigeron strigesus), red clover (Trifolium pratense) , and goldenrod (Solidago altissima). Wooded areas included eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginianus), black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), honey locust (Gleditsia tricanthos), hickory species (Carya spp.j oak species (Quercus spp.j, red¬ bud (Cercis canadensis), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and syca¬ more (Platanus occidentalis) . About 10—15 percent of the area consisted of corn fields. Birds were captured in mist nets (2.1 m x 9.2 m) placed in narrow rows (10-20 m wide) of woody vegetation adjacent to old fields or corn fields. Four feeding stations containing sunflower seeds were maintained in the study area from 1 September 1983 through 31 March 1984 and from 1 September 1984 through 10 March 1985 and nets were sometimes placed near these stations. Three or four nets generally were set up each day and each net was checked at least once per hour. Most mist netting occurred between 0700 and 1200 h. One mist net set up for one hour resulted in one “net hour.” The mean number of net hours per day during the study was approximately 12 and, therefore, 12 “net hours” equalled one “net day.” Although mist netting continued through the summer (June and July), birds captured during this period were assumed to be residents and, 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 therefore, were not included in the analysis. All captured birds were fitted with U.S. Fish-and-Wildlife Service aluminum bands. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION During the study period, mist nets were set up on 352 days, for a total of more than 4200 net hours. More than 2700 individuals representing over 60 species were captured during this period. As noted in the introduction, banding results for eight of these species will be examined. A total of 1240 individuals of these eight species was captured, with Song Sparrows being captured most frequently (276 individuals). Mengel (1965) considered the Field Sparrow to be a common resident in Kentucky, although less numerous in the winter. Banding data reveals that these sparrows occurred in the study area throughout the year, with fewer captures from mid-January through February (Fig. 1). Fall migra¬ tion appeared to be rather extended with many individuals captured be¬ tween early October and mid-December. Small peaks were noted from mid- March through mid-April in both years of the study (Fig. 1). These dates generally coincide with those noted by Monroe (1976), who suggested that Field Sparrows are most abundant in the Louisville region from early March through mid-November. Very few individuals were captured after mid-April (Fig. 1), suggesting the end of the spring migration and the establishment of breeding territories by resident individuals. Banding results for Song Sparrows were very similar to those for Field Sparrows (Fig. 1). Song Sparrows are also residents in the study area, however, as with Field Sparrows, there was an obvious influx of migrants in early October of both years (Fig. 1). Mengel (1965) also noted that few migrants pass through Kentucky prior to the first or second week of October. Unlike Field Sparrows, Song Sparrows continued to be captured throughout the fall and winter (Fig. 1). Mengel (1965) noted that while Song Sparrows may become a little less numerous in Kentucky during the winter, they are still common. White-throated Sparrows are winter residents in Kentucky, with greater numbers found in western Kentucky than in other parts of the state (Mengel 1965). These sparrows first appeared in the study area in late September, with the number of migrants peaking in mid- to late-Octo- ber (Fig. 2). Alsop (1970) reported an early date of 14 October in Hancock County while Wilson (1969) noted an early arrival date of 10 September (1964) in Barren County. Monroe (1976) reported three early sightings in the Louisville region: 2 August (1962), 31 August (1955), and 8 September (1964). Although most White-throated Sparrows appeared to be transients, many apparently spent the winter in the study area. I captured 202 White-throated Sparrows during the study and 49 of these birds were subsequently re¬ captured. The mean length of time between the date of first capture and the date of the last recapture was 48 days (range: 2-126 days). Examina¬ tion of the recapture data reveals a bimodal distribution (Fig. 3a), sug¬ gesting that while most birds were transients others probably overwintered in the study area. Further, some birds may have overwintered in or at least migrated through the study area in successive years, as one individual was captured during both winters (5 March 1983 and 28 November 1983). Although White-throated Sparrows were last captured in the study area in early March, previous reports indicate that individuals may remain in Kentucky much longer. Alsop (1970) noted a late date of 2 May (1965) in Hancock County while Monroe (1969) reported a sighting on 2 June. CAPTURES PER NET DAY CAPTURES PER NET DAY 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 29 FIELD SPARROW 1983 1984 1985 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC SONG SPARROW JAN FEB MAR APR MAY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 1983 1984 1985 Figure 1 Number of new individuals captured per net day for the Field Sparrow and Song Sparrow (values are averages for 14 day periods begin¬ ning on the dates indicated). CAPTURES PER NET DAY CAPTURES PER NET DAY 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 WHITE-THROATED SPARROW 1983 " 1984 1985 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC DARK-EYED JUNCO 1983 1984 1985 Figure 2. Number of new individuals captured per net day for the White- throated Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco (values determined as in Figure 1). 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 31 The Dark-eyed Junco is a common to abundant transient and winter resident throughout Kentucky and a common summer resident on Black Mountain in Harlan County (Mengel 1965). Juncos were first captured in the study area in mid-October and last captured in mid-February (1984) or early March (1985) (Fig. 2). Alsop (1970) reported an early arrival date of 17 October (1964) and a late departure date of 8 April (1965) in Hancock County. Monroe (1976) noted early and late dates of 27 Septem¬ ber (1955) and 25 May (1963), respectively, in the Louisville area. Stamm (1985a) reported the arrival of single juncos in the Louisville area on 26 September (1984). Mengel (1965) suggested that although a few juncos may arrive in late September, they are not common until early November. In the spring, Mengel observed that a decline in numbers is evident by March. Seventeen of 119 banded juncos were subsequently recaptured. The mean length of time between the initial capture and the last recapture was 27 days (range: 1-88 days). As with White-throated Sparrows, examination of the recapture data reveals a bimodal distribution (Fig. 3b). However, it appeared that few individuals remained in the study area for long periods of time, only 3 birds were recaptured more than 29 days after the initial capture. One individual was captured in both winters of the study (7 Febru¬ ary 1983 and 5 December 1984), indicating that individuals may overwinter in or migrate through the same areas in successive years. Purple Finches are uncommon to common transients and winter resi¬ dents in Kentucky (Mengel 1965). These finches were first captured in the study area in mid-November and last captured in the study area in mid- February in 1983 and in mid-March in 1984 (Fig. 4). A total of 127 of these finches was captured during the study and the longest period between an initial capture and subsequent recapture was two days, suggesting that individuals did not remain in the study area for long periods. Mengel (1965) also observed that Purple Finches are somewhat erratic in numbers and movements. Observations in recent years reveal the erratic behavior of these finches in Kentucky. In the fall of 1985, most observations of Purple Finches were made in November (Stamm 1986). In the fall of 1984, Stamm (1985a) reported that some observers had not seen any of these finches by the end of November, however, an influx was noted from mid-January through February of 1985 (Stamm 1985b). In the fall of 1983, Purple Finches were absent in some areas and low in numbers else¬ where (Stamm (1984a). An influx was finally noted in mid-January 1984 (Stamm 1984b), while another was noted from 28 April through 1 May 1984 in central and northern Kentucky (Stamm 1984c). Bent (1968:274) also commented on the erratic migrations of Purple Finches, referring to their migration as “somewhat erratic and irregular, varying in direction and extent.” Only 17 Fox Sparrows were captured in the study area. The earliest date of capture in the fall was 4 November (1983) while the latest capture date in the spring was 7 April (1984). It appeared that few Fox Sparrows overwintered between 8 December and 18 February. Most Fox Sparrows were captured between 4 November and 8 December (5 individuals) and between 18 February and 20 March (9 individuals). Mengel (1965) noted that Fox Sparrows are occasionally observed in mid-to-late October but are more common in November. He further noted that this species is rarely recorded after mid-April. Although Mengel (1965) classified the White-crowned Sparrow as a fairly common to common winter resident, only 17 individuals were cap¬ tured in the present study. Three of these were captured in mid-October NO. OF INDIVIDUALS NO. OF INDIVIDUALS 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 A B LENGTH OF TIME BETWEEN INITIAL CAPTURE AND LAST RECAPTURE (DAYS) Figure 3. Number of individuals recaptured during various intervals of time after the initial capture date. (A) White-throated Sparow and (B) Dark-eyed Junco. CAPTURES PER NET DAY CAPTURES PER NET DAY 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 33 PURPLE FINCH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC HOUSE FINCH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 1983 " 1984 1985 Figure i. Number of new individuals captured per net day for the Purple Finch and House Finch (values determined as in Figure 1). 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 (19 October 1983, 17 and 20 October 1984) and the rest were captured be¬ tween 5 January and 9 March. Mengel (1965) reported that White-crowned Sparrows usually arrive in Kentucky by mid-October and depart by early May. Seven of the 17 White-crowned Sparrows were subsequently recaptured. Two of these individuals were first captured on the same date in 1983 (18 February) and then recaptured on the same date in 1985 ( 3 February). This suggests that some White-crowned Sparrows either overwinter in or migrate through the same areas in successive years. The mean length of time between initial capture and subsequent recapture for the other 5 birds was 23 days (range: 13-39 days). The first sighting of a House Finch in Kentucky was on 16 February 1977 (Stamm 1978). Numbers have continued to increase since then, and House Finches now breed in some areas of the state (Stamm 1984, Jackson and Jackson 1986). House Finches were first captured in the study area in mid-November and last captured in early March (Fig. 4). More House Finches were captured during the second winter of the study (1984-1985), perhaps reflecting the increasing numbers of this species in Kentucky and throughout the eastern United States. A total of 182 House Finches was captured in the study area and only 6 individuals were recaptured in the same area. One individual was captured in successive winters (3 March 1984 and 17 December 1984), suggesting that some House Finches may overwinter in or at least visit the same areas in successive years. The mean length of time between the initial capture and last recapture for the other five birds was 23 days (range: 8-49 days). The low number of recaptures suggests that most of the House Finches were transients. In further support of this conclusion, one individual that was initially captured at the study area on 18 January 1985 was subsequently recaptured 9 days later in a trap at my home, about 13 km north of the study area. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I would like to thank Kathy Williams, Keith Krantz, Bill Lynch, Jim Castle, Chris Kellner, and Tammy Ritchison for assistance in the field. This research was supported in part by funds from Eastern Kentucky University. LITERATURE CITED Alsop, F. J. 1970. An annotated list of birds observed in Hancock County, Kentucky, Kentucky Warbler 47:59-70. Bent, A. C. 1968 Life histories of North American cardinals, grosbeaks, buntings, towhees, finches, sparrows, and allies, Part 1. U.S. Natl. Mus. Bull. 237. Smithsonian Inst. Press, Washington. Jackson, V. and W. Jackson. 1986. House Finch builds nest in a hanging fern plant. Kentucky Warbler 62:20. Mengel, R. M. 1965. The birds of Kentucky. Ornithol. Monogr. No. 3. Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1969. Summary of occurrence of birds of Kentucky. Ken¬ tucky Warbler 45:47 - 56. Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1976. Birds of the Louisville region. Kentucky Warbler 52:39 -64. Stamm, A. L. 1978. The winter season of 1977-1978. Kentucky Warbler 54:27-31. Stamm, A. L. 1984a. The fall migration season, 1983. Kentucky Warbler 60:14 -20. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 Stamm, A. L. 1984b. The winter season of 1983-84. Kentucky Warbler 60:23 -27. Stamm, A. L. 1984c. The spring season, 1984. Kentucky Warbler 60:40 - 46. Stamm, A. L. 1985a. The fall migration season, 1984. Kentucky Warbler 61:13-19. Stamm, A. L. 1985b. The winter season, 1984-85. Kentucky Warbler 61-27 - 32. Stamm, A. L. 1986. The fall migration season, 1985. Kentucky Farbler 62:3 - 9. Wilson, G. 1969. Additions to “Birds of south-central Kentucky.” Kentucky Warbler 45:32 - 39. — Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Rich¬ mond, KY 40475. THE WINTER SEASON, 1986-87 Anne L. Stamm Winter temperatures during December, January and February were relatively mild throughout the state. The coldest weather occurred January 24-27, with some light snow. Covington hit a low of zero January 24 and the temperature in Louisville dipped to nine degrees on January 27. A sleet storm across the state on February 16-17 made it difficult for ground¬ feeding birds for several days. Some light snow followed the storm, but by the end of the month the temperature was up to 56 degrees in the Louisville area. Precipitation was below normal for the period. Waterfowl was scarce in some areas, perhaps due to the mild winter. The wild food crop was unusually poor and Robins, Cedar Waxwings, Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warblers and Purple Finches were in lower numbers than usual. A few species remained beyond normal departure dates and were reported on the CBCs (See Ky. Warbler, 63:13, 1987). A Long-eared Owl was found in Grant County. Other rare and unusual species included the following: Pomarine Jaeger, Laughing Gull, Thayer’s Gull, Brewer’s Black¬ bird and Black-throated Gray Warbler. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area in Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; CBC = Christmas Bird Count; LBL = Land Between the Lakes. Loons through Storks — Few Common Loons lingered in December: one at Lake Pewee on December 5 (JH) ; ten at LBL on December 20 (CBC) ; one in Calloway County on January 3. Pied-billed Grebes were widespread in late December, but in small numbers except for the 75 that lingered at Lake Pewee until January 11 (BPB, C. Justis) and the 30 at an inlet of Kentucky Lake, February 1 (LR). A single Double-crested Cor¬ morant was present at Shippingport Island, December 13 (DN, BBC) ; and two there on December 21 (S, DS, FS,). Great Blue Herons were wide¬ spread during December with a count of 46 at Clark Fish Hatchery, December 18 (BA) ; common at Jonathan Creek (CP) ; seven at Dix Dam in early February constituted “an unprecedented concentration” in that area (W. Kemper fide FL). A Wood Stork, a rare vagrant in Kentucky, was observed in Hopson Bay on Lake Barkley on November 11-16 (LS, RR) ; two on November 28 (BT) where they were seen on various dates until January 2 (LS). 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Waterfowl — Two migrant Tundra Swans continued into early De¬ cember at BWMA (CW) and two at Honker Bay, February 1 ( fide ER). Geese were in lower numbers than in recent years. Wintering Snow Geese totaled 9,000 at BWMA in December and February (CW). Three adult Ross’ Geese and an immature mingled with the Snow Geese, December 7 at BWMA (BPB, J. Robinson), but six were there during the period (CW). Last year the Canada Geese peaked at 62,000 at BWMA, but this year peak numbers totaled 31,600 to 39,000 (CW). Wintering ducks also seemed to be greatly reduced in numbers. Only 5,000 ducks were present in January at BWMA (CW). Some 150 Mallards had returned to the Mayfair Basins at Louisville on February 21-23 (JK). There were 105 Gadwall at Dozier Lake on January 18 (JH) and 75 at Lake Pewee, December 5 (BPB). Canvasbacks were scarce in late December, but numbers increased in January and February. Highest counts included 55 at lake Pewee, January 3 (JH) and 475+ above Barkley Dam on February 22 (BPB). Redheads were in low numbers, but 125 were at Barkley Dam, February 25 (BPB), while 400 Ring-necked Ducks were at Lake Pewee, January 14 (JH). As usual, a few Greater Scaup were present at Louisville during the period (BPB). Two Oldsquaws were reported: one at Jacobson Park, Lexington and one at Cave Run Lake the week of February 21 (JW). A White-winged Sco¬ ter was observed at Dix Dam, February 1 (Wm. Kemper fide FL) and three at Smithland Dam, February 22 (BPB). American Goldeneye were re¬ ported in low numbers except for the 350 on northern Lake Barkley, February 1 (BPB, D. Ebel). An interesting record was that of the 40 Bufflehead at Clark Fish Hatchery, December 18 (BA). Common and Red-breasted Mergansers were present in very low numbers, but 100 Hooded Mergansers were seen at Lake Pewee on December 5 (BPB), 36 there on January 6 (JH) and 75 on January 11 (BPB). Hawks — Migrant Turkey Vultures had returned to Lake Cumberland State Park, Russell County by February 7 where 17 were counted (JE1). Two Ospreys were seen during the period at BWMA (CW — no date given). Wintering Bald Eagles were found in good numbers: more were seen during December and January at LBL than in previous years (ER) ; some 28 sighted at BWMA (CW). Others reported included one up river from West Point, January 1 (LR) ; one at Otter Creek and one at West Point, January 9 (S, DS, FS) ; one north of Warsaw, Gallatin County, January 10 (LMc) and one near Harrods Creek, Oldham County (T. Love). The state total number of Bald Eagles on the January survey was 195 (JD). The pair of Bald Eagles continued to be active at the nest at BWMA (previously reported) and incubation appeared to be in progress (CW). Northern Harriers were in lower numbers than last winter as were Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks. A Sharp-shinned Hawk was observed eating a small bird in the back yard of a Louisville resident, February 20 (BS). Red-shouldered Hawks seemed to be doing better than four years ago. Small numbers of Rough-legged Hawks were observed occasionally. A Golden Eagle was spotted at BWMA, January 9 ( fide CW). American Kestrels were in good numbers, especially in Grayson County (KC). A Peregrine Falcon was reported in Hart County, January 9 (SK — no details) . Wild Turkeys through Shorebirds — Wild Turkeys were observed in Breckinridge County (KC). American Coots remained later than usual: a total of 459 on the LBL December 20 CBC, 332 at Lake Pewee, December 29 and 395 there on January 14 (JH). The 25 American Coots on the 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 37 Mayfair Basins February 21-23 were probably early migrants (JK). Sandhill Cranes were still migrating over Louisville in December: a flock of 160 on December 10 (KC) ; a flock of 100 on December 11 (R. Monroe fide BM); a pair on the Fayette/Clark County line, December 18 (BA) and four early migrants appeared at BWMA in late February and were still present on March 4 (CW). The flight song of the American Woodcock was first heard at Madisonville, February 20 (JH), at Louisville, February 22 (BPB), east of Leitchfield, February 23 (DN) and at Eubank, February 27 (JE1), all much later than usual. Jaeger through Gulls — A jaeger was discovered at Kentucky Dam by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. on February 22 who put it out on a “bird alert”. There was some difference of opinion by several critical observers as to which jaeger species was present. Photographs taken on February 25 by Palmer-Ball “are equivocal”, but his slides taken on March 4 “clearly and definitively identify the bird as a Pomarine”, according to Bruce Peter- john, regional editor, Middlewestern Prairie Region, American Birds. Thus Kentucky will have its first record of a photographically verified Pomarine Jaeger. Slides taken by Doxie Noonan on March 1 are still under review. There was some uncertainty as to whether there was more than one jaeger involved during the period February 22 through March 24. Jaegers are known to be difficult to identify as to species and the writer believes that judicious collecting of specimens is desirable. Quite unusual was the winter record of an adult Laughing Gull at Kentucky Dam, February 1 (BPB, LR, D. Ebel) ; another, or possibly the same bird on February 22 at Barkley Dam (BPB) and below Kentucky Dam on February 23 (DN), 25 (BPB, LR, KC) and 26 (CP). Fair numbers of Bonaparte’s Gulls were present in late December (CP); a few above Kentucky Dam, February 22 (BPB). Ring-billed Gulls were more numerous this winter than for the past two years. They peaked at 12,000 at Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, February 1 (BPB); about 100 to 150 at the Falls of the Ohio, most of the winter, but 600 there on February 21 (BPB). The flock of 132 in a pasture along Highway 55, one mile from the entrance to Green River Lake on February 22 was of interest (LR). Herring Gulls were present, but in very small numbers, with the exception of the 500-1,000 at Kentucky Dam, February 1 (BPB). Also, on the same date and place an adult and two first-year Thayer’s Gulls were present (BPB, LR, D. Ebel) and on February 23 a first-winter bird was there (DN). Owls through Creepers — An injured Long-eared Owl was found alongside a road near Williamstown, Grant County on February 6 (KCa). The bird is currently undergoing rehabilitation by Raptor Incorporated in Cincinnati, Ohio. Eastern Phoebes lingered into December at several locations, and three had returned to Greenbo Lake State Park by February 14 (BA). Horned Larks were down in numbers compared with last year, but 100 were seen in Breckinridge County, February 2 (KC). An American Crow roost of “several thousand” was observed at the mouth of Green River at the junction of Daviess and Henderson Counties (RI) ; an estimated 5,000 in Henderson County on January 11 were probably as¬ sociated with this roost (BPB). Wintering Red-breasted Nuthatches were widespread in small numbers except for the 30 at Otter Creek and 110 at Bernheim Forest CBCs. Good numbers of Brown Creepers were observed in the Louisville area by Robert Brown. Wrens through Shrikes — The Carolina Wren population was much improved over last year (m. ob.). A Bewick’s Wren was reported in the 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Falls of Rough area all during the winter months (U. Byrd fide KC). The House Wren at the Mayfair Basins on February 8 was unexpected (BBC). Golden-crowned Kinglets were widespread in late December and in good numbers, while Ruby-crowned Kinglets were down from last year. A Ruby- crowned Kinglet fed almost every day at a Danville feeder during Febru¬ ary (FL) and one was seen in the Lexington cemetery on January 9 (BPB). The Eastern Bluebird population was slightly less than last year. Hermit Thrushes were scarce and American Robins were in lower numbers this winter, both of which may have been due to the shortage of wild fruits. Mockingbirds seemed to be “down” in the Danville area (FL) and slightly down in numbers all across the state (m. ob. ). Scattered Brown Thrashers lingered into the CBC period but were not reported later except for one at Madisonville, January 27-28 (JH). Cedar Waxwings were in small numbers the early part of the season, but an influx of 245-250 appeared at Kentucky Dam on February 22 and remained until March 3 (CP). Loggerhead Shrikes appeared to be up slightly over last winter (m. ob.). Warblers through Grosbeaks — The Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warbler population was much below that of normal winters. The Black-throated Gray Warbler reported last season was still present in the Lexington Cemetery on January 14 (DS, S, FS). A Palm Warbler lingered until December 7 in the Danville area (FL). Tree Sparrows were scarce in most locations, but were fairly common in Boone County during December and January (LMc). A Chipping Sparrow was reported at the Lexington Cemetery in early December and again on January 24 (BPB). Numbers of White- throated and White-crowned Sparrows were down from last year. Lapland Longspurs were scarce with a few singles reported in early December in¬ cluding one at BWMA, December 6 (BPB) and two in Breckinridge County, February 2 (KC). A flock of 10-20,000 Red-winged Blackbirds was noted in the bottoms of Newburgh Dam, Henderson County on January 11 (BPB, C. Justis). Good numbers of Rusty Blackbirds were present in the Danville area, but no Brewer’s were seen since the three on the CBC, December 20 (FL). Winter finches were in low numbers in some sections of the state. No Purple Finches were seen in Daviess and McLean Counties ( RI ) , scarce at Madisonville (JH), Louisville (S), and very low at Danville (FL), but 75 to 100 fed in late February at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC). House Finches continued to increase in numbers with highest counts at Science Hill, Pulaski County where 200+ were seen on February 10 (JE1). Pine Siskins and American Goldfinches were in lower numbers than in some recent years. Evening Grosbeaks were present in small num¬ bers (1 to 10) in locations in the following counties: Marshall, Calloway, Trigg (CP), McLean (RI), Hart (SK), Grayson (KC), Jefferson (S), Monroe (RS), and Boyle (FL), but 70-80 frequented feeders in a suburban section of Murray from mid-January to February 27 (WB). Correction — The record of a Short-eared Owl at SWMA on October 9, 1986 (Ky. War. 63:10, 1987) should be October 19. Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Wally Brines (WB), Robert Brown (RB), Kathy Caminiti (KCa) , Kathryn Clay (KC), Jim Durell (JD), Jackie Elmore (JE1), James W. Hancock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Steve Kistler (SK), John Krull (JK), Frederick W. Loetscher (FL), Tim Love (TL), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Ed Ray (ER), Russell Rogers (RR), Bernice Shannon (BS), Russell Starr (RS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 (FS), Louise Stokes (LS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Bill Thatch (BT), Jim Williams (JW), Charles Wilkins (CW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40222. THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY SPRING MEETING April 24-26, 1987 The 64th annual spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society was held at Cumberland Falls State Park on April 24-26, 1987. The Friday evening session was called to order by the president, Fred Busroe, who welcomed those present. The meeting was then turned over to vice-president Jim Williams, who outlined the following day’s schedule of field trips and programs, and introduced the evening’s speakers. Gary Ritchison opened the session with an interesting discussion on vocal be¬ havior of Eastern Screech Owls. Lynda Andrews followed with an update on the status of Bald Eagle nests in western Kentucky. Robert Manns briefly highlighted his discussion of optics to be presented on Saturday afternoon. Blaine Ferrell and Jeff Jones presented slides and highlights of their recent Alaska trip, and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. concluded the program with an update on the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas. A social hour followed the evening session. Saturday morning field trips included a 6:00 A.M. walk around the lodge area, and 8:00 A.M. trip to Forest Service Road #4504 led by Fred Busroe, and an 8:00 A.M. trip along Trail #12, led by Bert Powell. The afternoon program began at 2:00 P.M. at the lodge and was led by Robert Manns, who provided an informative discussion on binoculars and spotting scopes. The Board of Directors met at 4:00 P.M. The evening program began at 7 :30 P.M. in the conference room of Dupont Lodge. Fred Busroe introduced the evening’s speakers, Dr. Haven Wiley, who provided an in-depth program on the nature and characteristics of bird song, with emphasis on several warbler species. Following the program, note was made of a book sale for members to take place at the fall meeting, which will be held September 25-27 at Natural Bridge State Park. The 1988 spring meeting was tentatively set for Otter Creek Park on April 29-May 1. A request was made for interested parties who might consider conducting the annual audit of the KOS. Jim Williams led the group in compiling the day’s bird list, which totalled 79 species. A Sunday morning field trip was held at 8:30 A.M. Additional birds observed on Sunday brought the weekend total to 81 species. Total regis¬ trations for the spring meeting were 77. Respectfully Submitted, Lee McNeely Recording Secretary ATTENDANCE AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1987 Members and guests who registered totaled 77. Twenty-one cities in Kentucky, plus four other states were represented. BEREA : Art and Tina Ricketts, Ralph and Patricia Thompson. 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 BOWLING GREEN: Blaine and Priscilla Ferrell, Jeff Jones, W. B. and Ruth Mathes, Herbert E. and Jackie Shadowen. BURLINGTON: Lee and Lynda McNeely. BUCKHORN: Eileen Sandlin. CARLISLE: Wendell and Virginia Kingsolver. CHAVIES : Paulena Duff. FALLS OF THE ROUGH: Judith Williams. FRANKFORT : Lynda Andrews, Scott and Pat Hankla, Howard Jones. HAZARD: Dennis Sandlin, Donnie Spencer. JACKSON: Wanda Armstrong. LEITCHFIELD : Montelle and Alita Wilson. LEXINGTON: Marie Sutton, Andy and Mary Uterhart, Jim and Gerry Williams. LOUISVILLE: Patricia and Jane Bell, Robert K. Brown, Kathryn Clay, Arthur Figg, R. L. and Virginia Hectorne, Sue Henderson, Carol Hyatt, Don Jones, Judy Jones, Harriet A. Korfhage, Tim Love, Jeff and Carol Owens, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., F. W. and Anne Stamm, Donald Summerfield, Chester and Scottie Theiss. MACEO: Bert and Mildred Powell. MOREHEAD: Fred and Joanna Busroe. MURRAY : Clell Peterson. OWENSBORO: Lydia Greenwell, John Humphrey, L. E. and Elinor Wilson. PRINCETON : Robert and Emelene Roland. RICHMOND: Gary Ritchison. SCIENCE HILL: Jackie and Diane Elmore. STANLEY : Thomas and Anna Lee Stevenson. CARRBORO, NORTH CAROLINA: R. Haven and Minna Wiley. ATLANTA, GEORGIA: Robert and Didi Manns. KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE: Sylvia Britt, Ron and Audrey Hoff. PASADENA, CALIFORNIA: Violet Simpson. BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1987 Birds observed on Saturday field trips within a 15-mile diameter circle centered at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park include: Wood Duck, Turkey Vulture, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Spotted Sandpiper, Mourn¬ ing Dove, Great Horned Owl. Barred Owl, Whip-poor-will, Chimney Swift, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downey Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Purple Martin, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Bank Swallow, Cliff Swallow, Barn Swal¬ low, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Bewick’s Wren, Winter Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Swainson’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, White-eyed Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Golden- 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 41 winged Warbler, Northern Parula, Cape May Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow- throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Blaekpoll Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Ovenbird, Louisiana Waterthrush, Kentucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rufous-sided Tow- hee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Evening Grosbeak and House Sparrow for a total of 79 species. Rock Dove, Northern Mockingbird, European Starling, Red-winged Blackbird and Eastern Meadowlark were seen outside the 15- mile diameter circle bringing Saturday’s total to 84 species. A Ruby- throated Hummingbird and three Red-cockaded Woodpeckers observed by Bob Brown and party on Sunday brought the weekend total to 86 species. FIELD NOTES FIRST DOCUMENTED RECORD OF THE BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER IN KENTUCKY On the afternoon of 28 November 1986, Andres discovered a Black- throated Gray Warbler ( Dendroica nigrescens) in the Lexington Cemetery, located just northwest of downtown Lexington, Fayette County. The bird was first detected when it alighted on a weeping beech at eye level. The yellow spot on the lores immediately confirmed its identity. The bird then flew off with a group of chickadees, titmice and other small passerines and was observed for several minutes foraging in the crown of a large oak. After the warbler disappeared with the flock, Andres alerted Palmer- Ball and other local birders. Palmer-Ball joined Andres and Sarah McClellan at the cemetery ap¬ proximately an hour and a half after the initial sighting. After nearly an hour of searching for the bird, it was relocated, still associating with the group of small passerines. The warbler was continually observed for an hour as it moved with the flock through most of the southern half of the cemetery. Although specific identity of the warbler was discernable, over¬ cast skies prevented age and sex recognition. The Black-throated Gray Warbler remained in the Lexington Ceme¬ tery throughout December and was last observed on 14 January 1987. During this time many birders were rewarded with excellent views of this rare visitor. Perhaps cold weather caused the exodus, or unfortunately, the demise of the warbler. The most distinctive, although not most easily distinguishable, char¬ acteristic of the bird was the yellow spot on the lores. The gray crown was bordered by a white supercillium. Gray-black cheeks gave way to a white throat, which initially appeared darker under poor light conditions. Separ¬ ating the white throat from the white breast and belly was a thin, necklace of gray streaks similar to that of a Cerulean Warbler. The sides and flanks were streaked with gray. The color of the back was medium gray suffused with a light wash of brown visible only at very close range. The wings were blackish with two obvious wingbars. The retrices were dark except for the outer pair or two which appeared entirely white forming a tail pattern like that of a junco. The crissum was white and the 42 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 legs were dark. The call-note was indistinguishable from that of a Black- throated Green Warbler (Dendroica virens). Based on the presence of a white throat and a wash of brown in the back, the bird was judged to be in first year plumage and probably a female. While the bird was present in the cemetery, its foraging strategy was quite variable. During the first day of observation the warbler con¬ fined much of its activity to the upper levels of large deciduous and coniferous trees and was always in close proximity of the flock of small passerines. On subsequent visits, the bird was found with the large mixed- species flock that circulated through the cemetery or was found off by itself. The bird was also observed foraging on the ground, in low shrubs and in small trees. In one instance, the warbler was studied in a crab- apple for forty minutes as it worked the tree in a slow vireo-like manner. Hovering behavior similar to that of kinglets was also noted. Once the weather turned colder, the bird was most often found on or near the Henry Clay statue located near the entrance of the cemetery. It was repeatedly observed gleaning insects from the warm, vertical surfaces of the statue’s stone pedicel. This represents the first documented record for the Black-throated Gray Warbler in Kentucky. A previous spring record from Louisville was considered by Mengel (The Birds of Kentucky — 1965) to be hypothetical! Most records of stray Black-throated Gray Warblers in the eastern United States occur in late fall or winter. — Brad Andres, Department of Zoology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210 and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. ALBINISTIC RUSTY BLACKBIRD IN KENTUCKY A spectacularly albinistic Rusty Blackbird ( Euphagus carolinas) was found while sampling the dead bird population in a blackbird roost kill in Russellville, Logan County, Kentucky. The roost had been treated with PA-14 (a surfactant) on March 12, 1984 by the Kentucky Research Station, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The bird was found in one of the ran¬ domly-selected 0.9 m2 sample plots used to estimate the size of the kill. The head of the bird was amost completely white, whereas both the dorsal and ventral sides of the body were extensively dappled (see photo¬ graph). The wings were mainly black except for the 8th, 9th, and part of the 10th primaries on one wing and the 7th and 8th primaries on the other. These feathers were either partially or completely white. One of the rectrices also had considerable white in it. The specimen was identified as a male weighing 64.5 g with one wing chord measuring 117 mm and the other 114 mm (North American Bird Bander 1:25-27, 1976). This bird was one of 11 Rusty Blackbirds found among the 1685 blackbirds ( Icterinae) and Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) counted on 33 plots. The specimen is now housed at the Western Kentucky University Biology Department in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This is apparently the first albinistic Rusty Blackbird recorded in Kentucky. Allaire (Ky. Warbler 53:13-16, 1977) did not mention the species in his summary of Kentucky ornithological albinism cases, although 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 this aberration is not unknown in Rusty Blackbirds. (Bull. Nuttal Ornith. Club 4:27-30, 1879) records a “mottled” rusty from Detroit, Michigan, and Ross (Cassinia 47:2-21, 1963) mentions one museum specimen (U.S. National Museum) and two sight records of partially albino Rusty Black¬ birds. Although Gross (Bird-Banding 36:67-71, 1965) in his excellent sum¬ mary of the incidence of albinism in North American birds did not men¬ tion Rusty Blackbirds per se, he numbered the family Icteridae (now subfamily Icterinae) among the 54% of the 93 North American bird families in which albinism had been recorded at that time. Of the 1847 individual albinism cases he compiled, Icterinae members comprised ap¬ proximately 10% (188 individuals). Several examples exist in the literature of relatively large percentages of individuals from isolated populations exhibiting varying degrees of albinism, presumably because the recessive gene for albinism was given a greater than usual opportunity for phenotypic display among inbred birds. Edson (The Auk 45: 377-378, 1928) recorded one such incident for Icterinae in Washington State where at least 40% of an estimated flock of 500 Brewer’s Blackbirds (Euphagus cyanocephalus) exhibited substantial amounts of white. No such phenomenon was apparent among Rusty Black¬ birds we examined in southcentral Kentucky in 1984. An additional 188 Rusty Blackbirds were found in sample plots following two other Russell¬ ville, Kentucky roost sprays in January and March 1984, but only the one bird mentioned here exhibited albinism. — Allen R. Stickley, Jr., USDA/APHIS/Animal Damage Control Research, Kentucky Field Station, 334 15th Street, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101. Albinistic Rusty Blackbird collected from a blackbird roost in Russellville, Logan County, Kentucky. 44 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 NEWS AND VIEWS NORTHERN KENTUCKY BIRD CLUB ORGANIZES The Northern Kentucky Bird Club, a local chapter of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, has been organized. Membership is concentrated, but not limited to, the northern tier counties of Boone, Kenton, Campbell and Grant. Activities currently include monthly field trips, spring and winter bird counts and the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas. A newsletter is published quarterly and dues are $1.00 for individuals and $2.00 for fami¬ lies. Monthly meetings are scheduled to begin in the fall of 1987. Anyone interested in joining or desiring more information may contact Lee Mc- Neely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005. PURPLE MARTIN COLONY REGISTRY The Colony Registry Program of the newly formed Purple Martin Conservation Association seeks the help of all persons in locating and registering Purple Martin colonies throughout all of North America in preparation for several projects designed to help this man-dependent spe¬ cies experiencing long-term declines within parts of its breeding range. If you know of someone who has a martin colony or is trying to attract one, or if you are interested in starting a colony yourself, please write to the P.M.C.A. You can further assist by looking for martin houses or gourds in peoples yards during your travels. If you locate some, please try to obtain the mailing addresses. The Purple Martin Conservation Association, P.O. Box 178, Edinboro, Pennsylvania 16412. HELP NEEDED IN WARBLER SURVEY The purpose of this survey is to add to our knowledge of the location of occurrences of warblers in Kentucky and adjacent states and to assess annual changes in population numbers. My interest in this survey grows from the concern for habitat destruction in the wintering grounds of our warblers. Your participation in this survey should not require a lot of paper work or time. Simply, keep a tally of the number of warblers on a checklist that will be provided. If you are interested in participating, please write Aaron T. Trent, Route 6, Woodland Hills, Abington, Virginia 24210 for a checkist of warblers and an information sheet on breeding dates and habitat. Participants will receive a typed report of the year’s results. The Kentucky,. Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) IN THIS ISSUE THE SPRING MIGRATION OF 1987, Anne L. Stamm 47 BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY — 1987, Lynda Andrews, Mark Cramer and James Durell 53 NEWS AND VIEWS 55 46 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Fred Busroe, Morehead Vice-President Jim William, Lexington Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Recording Secretary Councillors: Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Lee McNeely, Burlington 1985-1987 1985- 1987 1986- 1988 1986-1988 Retiring President Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for our cover photograph of the Black-crowned Night Heron taken at the Falls of the Ohio in May. (Plus-X film, Nikon F3, 300 mm lens, 125/5-6). 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 47 THE SPRING MIGRATION OF 1987 Anne L. Stamm The spring migration of 1987 was termed by some observers as “poor” and “slow.” Traditional migration waves were not reported, but a notice¬ able passerine movement occurred on May 2 and 6. Species expected to arrive in late March and early April were generally later than usual, although a single Eastern Kingbird was unusually early, arriving on March 23. Some winter birds such as Pine Siskins were still present in May in Shelby and Grayson counties. The weather this spring was rather strange. March was exceedingly warm and temperatures averaged more than four degrees a day above normal for the first 29 days, according to the National Weather Service. This warm and sunny weather was broken by a freak 8-inch snowstorm in Louisville on March 30. Eastern Kentucky, particularly Perry, Pike and Letcher counties, was hard-hit with a heavy snowstorm during April 3-5. The new snow left accumulations ranging from 10 inches in West Liberty and 12 inches in Middlesboro to 24 inches in Hazard and Pikeville to 36 inches in Letcher County. A few days later the temperature ranged in the forties and April, for the most part, was fairly mild, but May was hot and more like August. Rainfall for the period was much below normal. Some population changes were noted in various sections of the state. Many observers felt that House Wrens were more numerous than usual. Eastern Kingbirds were also present in good numbers in Hart and Shelby counties. Wood Thrushes seemed less common than usual and warblers were in low numbers. No hawk migration flights were reported and few Broad-winged Hawks were observed. The rarity of the season, however, was the sighting of a Ruff. Abbreviations — MSB = Mayfair Settling Basins, Louisville; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; Reelfoot NWR = Reelfoot Na¬ tional Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; SWMA= Sauerheber Wildlife Man¬ agement Area, Henderson County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; CKWMA = Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area; BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area. Loons through Bitterns — A single Common Loon returned to Ken¬ tucky Dam on March 21 (BPB) and two at Lake Pewee on March 25 (JH) ; one to three appeared in early April at Doe Run Lake, Kenton County (EG), Cave Run Lake, Rowan County and three were still present at Lake Pewee on May 15 (JH). Pied-billed and Horned Grebes were scarcely men¬ tioned : one to four of the former were found at three locations and singles of the latter species at two locations, but 30 were present above Kentucky Dam on March 21 (BPB). Double-crested Cormorants were reported from eight locations, all in western Kentucky with the exception of one near Danville and one at the Falls of the Ohio. A flock of 40 birds was seen flying north in Calloway County in early April (MM) and 70 noted on Bayou de Chien, above Hickman, Fulton County, April 5 (BPB, LR). 48 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Single American Bitterns were reported in northeast McCreary County on April 29 (BPB, J. Campbell) and at Mayfair settling Basin, Jefferson County on May 10 (BPB). Herons — A total of six Great Blue Herons was observed in Grayson County on May 10 (KC, H. Lush, AW); seven in Fulton County, May 15, seven in Carlisle County and six in Ballard County, May 16 (S, DS, FS) ; no others reported. Two Great Egrets returned to Lake #9 by April 5 (BPB), one at MCFH on April 17 (FB) and one at Science Hill, Pulaski County, April 22 (JE1). May records included singles at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB), MCFH (FB) ; five in Fulton County and three in Ballard County (S, DS, FS). The only Snowy Egret reported was an adult seen on Swan Lake, May 16 (S, FS, DS). Several Little Blue Herons were noted at Reelfoot NWR, April 17 (BPB) and two adults at Swan Lake, May 16 (S, FS, DS). Eight Cattle Egrets were present near Open Pond, Fulton County, April 17 (BPB) and one there May 15 (S, DS, FS) ; and one at MCFH on May 6 (FB). Green-backed Herons were reported in fairly low numbers. One hundred and forty-five Black-crowned Night Herons visited the rock ledge below McAlpine Dam, May 19 (LR) ; two noted in a flooded field in East Bend, Boone County, April 19 (LMc). Five Yellow-crowned Night Herons were present at the Falls of the Ohio and one at Lentz’s Pond on May 31 (BPB). Waterfowl — A Mute Swan was seen on a farm pond in Boyle County March 23 ( fide FL). There was a fair migration this spring for diving ducks and moderate flocks of dabbling ducks. One hundred Black Ducks were present at SWMA on March 27 (BPB). Large numbers of Blue-winged Teal were noted in a flooded field along the Ohio River in Boone County in mid-April (LMc); fifty at SWMA on April 12 (BPB) ; and 17 still present in Calloway County, May 2 (J. T. Erwin fide CP). Quite unexpected was an apparent hybrid Blue-winged x Cinnamon Teal at Hays Kennedy Park, Jefferson County, April 6 (JC). The bird remained until April 8 and was seen by many observers. Northern Shovelers peaked at 80 birds at SWMA on March 15 (BPB). Eighty-two Ring-necked Ducks were seen at Lake Pewee on March 20 (JH). Two Greater Scaup were seen at Smithland Dam, March 21 (BPB) and nine at Towhead Island, March 27 (LR). Two rafts of Lesser Scaup Ducks totaling 450 or more were above Kentucky Dam on March 5 (S, DS, FS) and a similar number on March 15 (S, BM, M. Monroe, FS) ; on the after¬ noon of the latter date 500 there (BPB); about 100+ on Lake Barkley above the dam on April 5 (BPB), and 52 still present near Shippingport Island, April 12 (LR). An Old Squaw was reported above Kentucky Dam on March 15 and a flock of 14 there on March 21 (BPB, LR). Red-breasted Mergansers were numerous at Lake Barkley above the dam where 700 + were present on March 21 (BPB) ; other sightings away from Lake Barkley included 24 at Louisville on April 3 (LR), five at Waitsboro Recreational Area, Pulaski County on April 4 (JE1) ; one at Frankfort Game Farm Lake on March 21 (WB) and six at Kentucky Dam, May 13 (BPB). Hawks — There were no hawk flights reported. Turkey Vultures peaked at 77 on March 27 at MCFH (FB) and 30 still remained there on May 29. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 49 Eight sightings of Ospreys were reported this spring between March 21 and May 17 at the following locations: Lake Barkley (BPB), Jonathan Creek (MM), below McAlpine Dam (LR), farm pond south of Lexington (LMc), pond north of Somerset (JE1), Owsley Fork Reservoir (GR, AR), and one in flight over HWY 70 one mile north of Pulaski County in Rock¬ castle County (JE1). Single Mississippi Kites were observed near Lake #9 and at Columbus State Park on May 15 and 16, respectively (DS, S, FS). A pair of Bald Eagles nested at BWMA, two young were seen, but later the young died (L. Andrews). Ten Cooper’s Hawks were reported: three in Pulaski County, April 27 (JE1); an immature and two adults in Spencer County, May 7 and 8 (WB) ; three in Grayson County, May 10 (KC, AW) ; and one in Fulton County, May 15 (DS, S). Single Red-shouldered Hawks were observed in River Fields Sanctuary (LR), Madisonville (JH), Jeffer¬ son County Forest (DS) and in Fulton County (DS, S, FS). Although no Broad-winged Hawk flights were observed there were a few reports: a pair on April 18 at Boone County Cliffs Preserve, one on May 17 and another at Big Bone State Park, May 9 (LMc) ; three in Grayson County, May 10 (KC, Una Byrd) ; and one over Columbus State Park, May 16 (DS, FS, S). Red-tailed Hawks were in normal numbers: a total of 23 reported on the Grayson County count on May 10 (KC et al.) while 14 were on the Calloway County count on May 2 (J. T. Erwin fide CP). A beautiful Krider’s Hawk was well seen at Princeton, Caldwell County on March 15 (S, BM, Mark Monroe). Wild Turkey through Coots • — Three Wild Turkeys were observed on the Neill Farm at the Falls of the Rough on May 10 (KC). Observers working in Grayson County on May 10 found 64 Northern Bobwhites (KC et al.) while a total of 44 was reported on the Calloway County count on May 2 (J. T. Erwin fide CP). The only Virginia Rail reported was one at Indian Fort Theater, east of Berea on April 22 (GR). Small numbers of Sora Rails were reported: six at SWMA on April 19 and May 12 (BPB) ; singles at Leitchfield May 10 (AW) and in a marsh at Somerset Reservoir on April 16 and April 25 (JE1). American Coots peaked with 282 at Lake Pewee on March 25 (JH); two birds were still present at the marina at Kentucky Lake May 13 and 17 (S, DS, FS). A flock of 30 Sandhill Cranes was observed over Louisville on March 15 (BPB). Shorebirds — The only Black-bellied Plover reported was seen in the Ohio River Bottoms near Maceo, Apri 16 (M. Brown fide AP). Lesser Golden Plovers were reported at only four locations with the earliest near Danville on March 28 — three birds (FL); two at Murray on March 31, nine at Jonathan Creek, April 3 (MM) and three at Open Pond, Fulton County on April 5 (BPB, LR). A total of 75 Semipalmated Plovers was observed in scattered flocks in western Henderson County on May 12 (BPB), small numbers in Jefferson and Fulton counties and 18 still present at MCFH on May 29 (FB). A Greater Yellowlegs made its appearance on March 5 in Henderson County (RI), numbers were relatively small this spring with the exception of about 100 in the northern part of Reelfoot NWR on April 18 (CP) and a total of 70 birds in scattered flocks in Fulton County, April 5 (BPB). A Lesser Yellowleg was first observed near Dan¬ ville on March 28 (FL) but 300 were in the vicinity of Bondurant and Lake #9 on April 18 (CP) and 150 in scattered flocks were present in 50 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Fulton County on April 5 and in Reelfoot NWR on April 17 (BPB). There were a few unusual shorebird records: Upland Plovers (3) in the Ohio River Bottoms, near Maceo, Daviess County, April 17 (AP) ; one in Callo¬ way County in “early April” and May 2 (MM) and on Schuler Lane, Louisville the first week of May (BPB); a Ruddy Turnstone in Fulton County, April 18 (CP) ; a single Western Sandpiper at Open Pond, April 5 (BPB) and Reelfoot NWR, April 18 (CP) ; and two on May 4, 6 and 14, but a high of 10 on May 7 at MCFH (FB) ; White-rumped Sandpipers (2-6) on Lake #9 (BPB) and" MCFH (FB) ; a Baird’s Sandpiper in eastern Union County (BPB, LR, D. Ebel) and five at MCFH on May 7 and one on May 14 (FB). The rarity of the season, however, was the Ruff on April 17 in the northern section of Reelfoot NWR (BPB). This is Kentucky’s second record of this rare spring transient. Normal numbers of Semi- palmated Sandpipers passed through Kentucky. Least Sandpipers were present from April 5 to May 31 with the latter date at Petersburg, Boone County (LMc) and the maximum number about 100 at Lake #9 (BPB). Thirty Pectoral Sandpipers were seen near Danville on March 28, but migration was in full swing on April 5, when about 500 were seen in scattered flocks in western Fulton County; also observed in Henderson and Rowan counties. A single Stilt Sandpiper in western Henderson County and a flock of 13 Short-billed Dowitchers near Open Pond occurred on May 12 and 13, respectively (BPB). Common Snipe were widespread and present in fairly good numbers (m.ob.). Jaeger through Terns — The Pomaraine Jaeger, formerly reported, was last observed on March 15 and 21 by many Kentucky observers and on March 24 by a Tennessee birder. Eight Bonaparte’s Gulls were first observed below the Kentucky Dam on March 15 (S, BM, M. Monroe). They were fairly widespread in numbers from one to three in Calloway, Hopkins, Daviess and Boone counties. Largest movements occurred on March 21 with 150 birds along the Ohio River at Louisville, 100 at Lake Barkley, March 29 (BPB), 75 on the wall below McAlpine Dam on April 3 (LR), and 30 at MCFH on the same date (FB). An adult Franklin’s Gull was present on Lake Barkley above the dam, April 5 (LR, BPB). A maximum of 1,000+ Ring-billed Gulls was counted at Kentucky Dam, March 5 (S, FS, DS), about 750 there on March 15 (BPB) and two still present on May 13 (S, et al.) ; also 1000 on Lake Barkley around Boyd’s Landing on March 21 (BPB); fairly common throughout the period along the Ohio River in Boone County, with two still present at Petersburg on May 9 (LMc). Herring Gulls were reported in small numbers in mid-March at Kentucky Dam, Lake Barkley and the Falls of the Ohio; two were still present at the latter location on May 19 (BPB). A single Caspian Tern was noted at East Bend, Boone County on April 11, five on April 19 (LMc) ; two at Kentucky Dam on April 16, 18 and 11 at Smithland Dam on May 12 (BPB). The only Common Terns reported were the three at MCFH on May 4 (FB). Two Forster’s Terns were noted in Calloway County on May 2 (J. T. Erwin fide CP), six at Smithland Dam on May 12 (BPB) and five near Rough River Dam on May 10 (KC). Least Terns were reported at Lake #9 on May 13 (no number given — BPB, J. T. Erwin) and five at Hickman, Fulton County on May 14 (S, DS, FS). Two Black Terns were observed on MCFH May 4 (FB) and one at Barkley Dam on May 13 (BPB) were the only ones reported. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 51 Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — A Black-billed Cuckoo at Glasgow on May 16 was the only one reported (RS). Yellow-billed Cuckoos arrived rather late and were recorded at the following locations: Madison County (AR) and the Falls of the Rough on May 10 (KC), Madisonville on May 11 (JH), Glasgow (RS) and at the campgrounds at Kentucky Lake, May 13 (FS, S, DS). Common Barn Owls were reported from four locations: one at Madisonville on March 6 (JH), one at Burlington on May 3-5, 29-31 (LMc), a pair at Stanley during the period (T. Stevenson) and one at MCFH on April 3 (FB). Common Nighthawks arrived later than normal: first sighting at Morehead, Rowan County on April 28 (FB), another at Science Hill, Pulaski County on April 30 (JE1), other arrival dates were in May (m.ob.). Five Chuek-wills-widows were recorded at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County on May 10 (KC) and one at Madisonville on June 3 (JH). Whip-poor-wills were reported as “down in numbers” in McLean County (RI). Four Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were still present in Grayson County on May 10 (KC et al.) . Flycatchers through Crows — Three Yellow-bellied Flycatchers were heard singing on Surrey Hill Farm, Louisville on May 19 (BPB). Four Willow Flycatchers were observed at MCFH on May 14 (FB). A Least Flycatcher was recorded at MCFH on April 28 (FB) but one was still present at CKWMA on May 25 (GR). Eastern Kingbirds were recorded in good numbers in Hart (SK), Shelby and Henry counties (S, FS) ; one bird was unusually early in the Louisville area on March 23 (H. Schutte) and established an early state date. Purple Martins arrived much later than in previous years. Colonies in Jefferson and Ballard counties were decidedly down in numbers (S, DS, FS). The only concentration of Tree Swallows occurred at MCFH on April 3 when 200 were seen (FB). Rough-winged Swallows arrived at the Somerset Reservoir on March 27 (JE1). Numbers were thought to be down in Grayson County (KC). Approximately 80 Bank Swallows were observed in Carroll County on May 24 (S, FS) ; ten birds at MCFH on May 4 (FB). A single Cliff Swallow arrived at Eggner’s Ferry, Trigg County on March 23 and established an early state date (CP). Forty-five Cliff Swallows were noted at MCFH on May 4 (FB), about 80 at Barkley Dam on May 13, 30 at Jonathan Creek, May 14 (S, DS, FS) ; and 111 was the total for an all day count in Grayson County on May 10 (m. ob.). Several Fish Crows were heard at Reelfoot NWR and about 15 at Chalk Bluff on April 17 (BPB). Wrens through Shrikes — Reports on the Carolina Wren indicated birds were “plentiful” (FL), “up in numbers” (RI), “quite common this spring” (JH) and heard more frequently in Louisville. It was encouraging to have a few reports of the Bewick’s Wren: one near Kentucky Dam on March 21 (LR, BPB); a pair in Murray for only a few days (no date given — R. Butler fide CP) ; three in the Falls of the Rough area on May 10 (Una Byrd, KC). House Wrens appeared to be more common than in recent years. A Winter Wren was still present in Calloway County on May 2 (J. T. Erwin et al. fide CP). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet lingered at Burling¬ ton until May 16 (LMc). Good numbers of Eastern Bluebirds continued to be reported from most areas. A Gray-cheeked Thrush was still present at Burlington on May 30-31 (LMc). Reports of the Wood Thrush were a bit 52 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 discouraging. They were “doing poorly” in the Danville area (FL), “seldom heard or seen this season” in the Madisonville area (JH) and numbers appeared to be down in the Louisville area (S). There appeared to be a decrease in the number of Brown Thrashers sighted during the period. The Cedar Waxwing migration seemed to be more in evidence in mid-May and later with small flocks at Madisonville (JH), Erlanger, Kenton County (EG), Columbus State Park (S, FS, DS), but a total of 158 birds fed on the cherry and mulberry trees in Big Pond Sanctuary on May 10 (KC). Few observers mentioned the Loggerhead Shrike but sightings occurred in the following locations: two in Calloway County (fide CP), four in Gray¬ son County (KC, AW), one in Jefferson Countv and two in Carlisle County (S, DS, FS). Vireos through Warblers — A total of 23 White-eyed Vireos was seen in Calloway County on May 2 on an all-day count ( fide CP) while 41 were on the Grayson County count on May 10 (KC, Houston Lush, AW). Ten Solitary Vireos were found in the Falls of the Rough area on May 10 (KC). Yellow-throated and Warbling Vireos were in low numbers. A Red¬ eyed Vireo arrived at MCFH on April 1 and tied Kentucky’s early record date (FB). The majority of observers felt that the warbler migration was poor and that numbers were low. The Common Yellowthroat appeared to be the only warbler species where fair numbers were found. Warblers ar¬ rived later than normal. A small flock of six Yellow Warblers, near Lake Barkley, Trigg County on May 29 was thought unusual (CP). A Cape May Warbler was still present at Burlington on May 17 (LMc). A Black- throated Blue Warbler was seen near Danville (no date given — W. Kemp¬ er fide FL). A Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warbler was still present at the campground area near Kentucky Dam on May 13 (S, DS, FS). Interesting Pine Warbler reports included one heard on March 6 at Madisonville, Hopkins County and heard often during March, April and through May 31 (JH) and also heard at two other locations in Hopkins County; one in Hodgenville, Larue County on May 10 (JE1). Ten to 12 Cerulean Warblers were observed in Mammoth Cave National Park on May 2 (SK). A Swain- son’s Warbler was heard and seen in the headwaters of Eagle Creek, Mc¬ Creary County on May 6 (BPB, M. Medley). A Connecticut and two Mourning Warblers were observed in Louisville cn May 10 and May 19, respectively, while another Mourning was reported in Calloway County on May 13 (BPB and the latter species with H. Wieting). A Canada Warbler was still present in Hart County on May 28 (SK). The Yellow-breasted Chat was thought to be “extremely scarce” in McLean County (RI). Grosbeaks through Sparrows — Blue Grosbeaks were reported in small numbers from Fulton (S, DS, FS), Calloway (MM et al. fide CP), Hop¬ kins (JH) and Hart counties (SK). Good numbers of Dickcissels were in western Fulton County on May 14 and 15 (S, FS, DS). Four Bachman’s Sparrows were reported near Hardin, Calloway County (E. Van Slyke fide CP). A few Grasshopper and Henslow’s Sparrows were first noted at CKWMA (GR) and others on Schuler Lane, Louisville on May 3 (BPB). Grasshopper Sparrows were also observed at the Greater Cincinnati Air¬ port, Boone County on May 9 (LMc) and two Henslow’s Sparrows arrived at MCFH on the early date of March 12 (FB). 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 53 Bobolinks through Finches — Bobolinks were barely mentioned and the only sizeable flock reported had 30+ birds at Science Hill, Pulaski County an May 2 (JE1) ; singles were noted in Shelby, Jefferson (WB), and Cal¬ loway counties ( fide CP). Twenty-four Rusty Blackbirds were seen in the Nettleroth Sanctuary, Louisville on March 12 (LR). Orchard Orioles ap¬ peared unusually common in many areas. They were first reported in Hopkins County on April 20 (JH) ; three birds were heard singing until 9:15 p.m. at Ken Lake on May 13 (S, DS, FS). Northern Orioles were common in western Fulton County, but not as common in Jefferson County as usual (S). House Finches continued to increase in numbers. Pine Siskins were widespread during late April and May. A total of 91 birds was re¬ ported on the Grayson County count on May 10 (KC, AW, Ruth and T. Keller, H. Lush. B. Landes, Una Byrd). Evening Grosbeaks were also widespread, but only in small groups (8-15) and were last observed in Madison County on April 22 (AR) and Calloway County on May 3 (CP). Special thanks are due to all contributors, listed below, who sent comments and records on the spring migration. Contributors — L. Andrews (LA), Fred Busroe (FB), John Callahan (JC), Kathryn Clay (KC), W. H. Brown (WB), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Ed Groneman (EG), James W. Hancock (JH), Ramon lies (RI), Steve Kistler (SK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), A. L. Powell (AP), Lene Rauth (LR), Art and Tina Rick¬ etts (AR), Gary Ritchison (GR), Russell Starr (RS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Alita Wilson (AW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisvile 40222. BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY — 1987 Lynda Andrews, Mark Cramer and James Durell Eagle counters tallied 195 Bald Eagles and three Golden Eagles on the 1987 Kentucky census. January 9 was the target date within a time frame of January 2-16. This census was done in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Waterfowl census. The National Wildlife Fed¬ eration now records only the counts at Ballard County, Lake Barkley and Dale Hollow, rather than the full state census. Weather during the period was unusually warm and clear. Immature eagles were down from 86 (37%) to 51 (27%), while ma¬ ture birds were down only from 148 to 142. This count has been exceeded only last year and in 1984, when Reelfoot Lake was frozen, forcing their eagles to seek open water on the Mississippi and lower Ohio Rivers. A mature Golden Eagle was seen on Paintsville Lake, and an immature on the Mississippi River and on Land Between the Lakes. 54 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 Again no eagles were reported from Obion and Mayfield Creek Bot¬ toms, and only one in the Barlow Bottoms, near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. These were very productive in 1984. Land Between the Lakes gained 29 eagles and Dale Hollow 10. The Lower Ohio lost 42, and the Mississippi River 16. Eagles across the Ohio River from Ballard County were counted. Table I summarizes the 1987 census, with some earlier high records. TABLE I — Kentucky Bald Eagle Census, January 2-16, 1987 ROUTE Ad. 1987 Imm. Total Earlier High Counts High Year Land Between the Lakes 40 25 67 + 54 1984 Mississippi River* . 23 7 30 72 1984 Ohio River, Wickliffe to north Livingston Co. (Carrsville) 39 8 47 89 1986 Ohio River, Carrsville-Owensboro 1 1 7 1984 Ohio River, Battletown-Louisville 2 2 5 1986 Ohio River, Markland Dam- Cincinnati 1 1 0 Green River Lake 5 1 6 12 1986 Dale Hollow, Kentucky portion 19 7 26 12 1983 Lake Cumberland 6 6 14? 1983 Cumberland River, dam to Burkesville 5 5# 8 1986 Cave Run Lake 2 1 3 7 1984 Laurel Lake i 1 9 1985 Martin’s Fork — — 2 1986 Totals 142 51 195 + * Golden eagles were reported here and at Paintsville Lake f Includes 2 eagles, age unknown. # Excludes 2 eagles, possibly duplicated on Lake Cumberland. Eleven parties reported other hawks. Counts for 1986 and 1985 are in parentheses: American Kestrel 101 (103, 105); Red-tailed 50 (68, 76); Marsh Hawk 8 (7, 5); Rough-legged 4 (3, 1); Red-shouldered 1 (3, 2); Sharp-shinned 0 (2, 1) ; Cooper’s 1 (3, 3); Osprey 0 (0, 3) ; Black Vultures 16; Turkey Vultures 1. 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 55 There were 60 participants in 30 parties. They represented the Ken¬ tucky Ornithological Society, federal and state Fish and Wildlife agencies, TVA, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Audubon Society and Owensboro Area Museum. Space does not permit listing these individuals, but their help is gratefully acknowledged, and solicited next year. — Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Frankfort 40601 — Ky. Ornithological Society, 1027 Algonquin, Frankfort. NEWS AND VIEWS GREAT EGRETS AND SNOWY EGRETS COLOR-MARKED IN NORTH ALABAMA As part of an egret restoration project in north Alabama, 187 Great Egrets (Egretta alba) and 14 Snowy Egrets (E. thula) have been hacked near Guntersville Reservoir during 1985-1987. Each Great Egret is marked with a 2-inch long red flag attached to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service leg band, while each Snowy Egret has a similar blue flag. I welcome reports of any sightings of these color-marked birds. Please note date, location, spe¬ cies, and number of egrets present. Information should be sent to: Burline P. Pullin, Wildlife Resources Development Program, Tennessee Valley Authority, Norris, TN 37828 (telephone 615-632-1642) and the Bird Band¬ ing Laboratory. I will appreciatively acknowledge any letters. K.O.S. FALL MEETING The Kentucky Ornithological Society Fall Meeting will be held 25-27 September at Natural Bridge State Park. Please plan to attend and make your reservations soon. You don’t want to miss the sale of some extra¬ ordinary bird books that will be held during the meeting. Details of this sale will be forthcoming or you may have already received them. Anyone who would like to share unusual birding experiences or research findings at the Friday evening meeting should contact Jim William, Program Chair¬ man, 480 Seeley Dr., Lexington 40502. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 63 NOVEMBER, 1987 NO. 4 IN THIS ISSUE THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1987, Anne L. Stamm 58 REPORT OF THE TREASURER, Harriet Korfhage 62 THE SIXTY-FOURTH ANNUAL FALL MEETING 64 FIELD NOTES . 66 NEWS AND VIEWS . 67 57 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, President Vice-President Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Recording Secretary Councillors : Tom Stevenson, Stanley Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist i. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson Fred Busroe, Morehead Jim William, Lexington Harriet Korfhage 2001 Glenview, Louisville, Ky. 40222 Lee McNeely, Burlington 1985-1987 1985- 1987 1986- 1988 1986-1988 Blaine Ferrell, Bowling Green Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ., Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for our cover photograph of the Eastern Kingbird taken in Lexington in June (300mm Nikon, F3, 125/5.6). 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 58 THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1987 Anne L. Stamm The months of June and July were unusually warm and humid. June averaged 2V2 degrees warmer than normal. Severe thunder storms hit Louisville on June 12, July 5, 6 and 11, uprooting large trees in the parks and some residential areas. The July 11 storm brought heavy rains and caused flooding in Jeffersontown and other central Kentucky areas. The storm toppled trees in southern Harrison County and brought hail to Meade and Breckinridge counties. Ground and tree-nesting species suffered losses from the storms. A large Purple Martin box, containing young birds, in Seneca Park, crashed to the ground when the wind split the large pole which supported the box. A young Barn Owl was found on the ground after a large tree containing its nest was uprooted by the storm, and there were doubtless many other birds left homeless, but not reported. The young owl was taken to the Louisville zoo. Some interesting breeding records included a nest of the Chuck-will’s widow and a nest of Barn Owls at Burlington. A nest of the Screech Owl was found at Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area. Bank Swallows nested successfully at Boone, Livingston, Hickman and Lyon counties and a new colony of Cliff Swallows was found at Markland Dam. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area; CKWMA = Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area; PWMA = Peal Wildlife Management Area; Reelfoot NWR = Reelfoot National Wildife Refuge. Loons through Herons — Common Loons are extremely rare in summer, but one in breeding plumage was seen at Kentucky Lake on July 1 (BPB). Three Double-crested Cormorants were present at the Mayfair Basins, Louisville, June 14 (BPB). Great Blue Herons were fairly common in Ballard County during June and were observed flying to and from Axe Lake, presumably feeding young, but numbers declined after July 1 (CP). Twenty-five were sighted at Lake #9 on July 10, but only 13 there on July 16 and two or three on July 25 (CP). Great Blue Herons were also present at Petersburg, Boone County, during June and July, with a high of eight on July 28 (LMc) ; and single birds on three occasions at Madisonville (JH). There were 27 to 30 Great Egrets at Lake #9, Fulton County on July 10 and 16 and none were there on July 25 (CP) ; one also at Burlington, Boone County on July 10 (LMc). At least one nest of the Great Egret was found at Axe Lake in mid-June (Wm. Hendricks fide BPB). Snowy Egrets were seen at Lake Mitchell from June 30 to July 31, with a high count of eight birds on July 7 (CP). An adult Little Blue Heron was seen at the Black- crowned Night Heronry on Shippingport Island in mid-June, but no nest was found (BPB) ; an immature noted at the Falls of the Ohio on July 30 (LR) ; four adults and four immatures at PWMA and BWMA on June 30, but a high of 44 (9 ad., 35 im.) at Lake #9 on July 25 (CP) ; also eight in Carlisle County and 19 at BWMA on July 31 and 22 of the 27 birds were immatures (CP). Cattle Egrets were numerous in western Kentucky where 23, mostly juveniles, were found north of Cunningham, Carlisle County 011 July 31; 89 perched in trees in Ballard County, 37 southeast of Oscar and one at PWMA (CP). Also, several dozen at Swan Lake and a few nests found on Shippingport Island (BPB). Few observers mentioned the Green- backed Heron, but one was reported at Tom Wallace Lake from June 1- 59 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 July 15 (DS). A total of 200 Black-crowned Night Herons was counted on June 10 at the Falls of the Ohio (LR) and the colony at Shippingport appeared to be “thriving” (BPB), but the wind storms in July may have destroyed some late nests. An adult Yellow-crowned Night Heron was observed at the Falls of the Ohio in early June (DN) and six adults there in early July, a few immatures showed up in mid-July (BPB); and an adult also present on a number of occasions during July at Lentz’s Pond (BPB). Waterfowl — There were few records of nesting ducks: a female Wood Duck with nine young at Petersburg, May 31 (LMc) ; and a female with seven young at a small lake in Ten Broeck, Louisville in mid-June (S,FS) were the only ones reported. Diurnal Raptors — A vulture roost with an estimated 68 to 80 birds, with one third Black Vultures and two thirds Turkey Vultures, was seen on Reelfoot NWR, in the vicinity of Bondurant, July 10 (CP). Single Mississippi Kites were observed on several occasions at BWMA (CP). Eight were soaring over the northern section of Fulton County on July 10, twelve in the air at one time in the lower section of Fulton County on July 21 and five there July 31 (CP) ; and a few in late June along the Mississippi River in Carlisle and Hickman counties (BPB). A single Osprey was reported below Smithland Dam on July 1 (BPB). An adult Bald Eagle was seen in Hopkins County on June 26, 27 and July 3 (B. West fide JH) and one possibly the same bird, a few miles north of the previous location on July 15 (Kitty Hancock fide JH). An interesting record was that of two Northern Harriers flying low over the West Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, McCracken County on July 8 (Marc Evans fide BPB). A Sharp-shinned Hawk was observed in Shelby County on July 7 (WB) and another at CKWMA on July 29 (GR). Single Cooper’s Hawks were present at the following locations: Floyd’s Fork, Jefferson County, July 8 (WB), CKWMA on June 30 (GR), Barren River State Park, July 3 (MS), and at Petersburg on July 18 (LMc). A nest of the Broad-winged Hawk with four young at Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve on July 4 was noteworthy (LMc). A few nests of the Red-tailed Hawk were reported: bird incubating at Taylorsport, Boone County on March 1 (LMc) ; and a nest in the Danville area on March 29 (FL). Two nests of the American Kestrel were found at CKWMA: One nest fledged three young and the other was destroyed by predators (GR). Shorebirds — A Piping Plover at the Falls of the Ohio on July 20 tied our early state date and an American Avocet was early at the same location on July 14 (BPB). Other species of shorebirds arrived a bit later than usual. Two Greater Yellowlegs returned to the vicinity of Bondurant and one at Lake #9, Fulton County on July 25 (CP) and next recorded at the Falls of the Ohio on July 31 (LR). A Lesser Yellowleg made its appearance at Lake #9 on July 16 (CP) and at the Falls of the Ohio on July 18 (BPB). A few Spotted Sandpipers were noted at the Falls of the Ohio, but periods of high water may have made it impossible for them to nest successfully (BPB). There were at least 100 Semipalmated Sand¬ pipers and a single Sanderling at Lake #9 on July 25 (CP). A Western Sandpiper was noted at the Falls of the Ohio on July 20-22 (BPB) and Least Sandpipers were first observed at Lake #9 on July 10 (CP). Pectoral Sandpipers were first reported at Lake #9 on July 16 (CP) and at the Falls of the Ohio on July 19 (BPB). Two Stilt Sandpipers were 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 60 present at Bondurant on July 25 and some 350 shorebirds of various species at Lake #9 (CP). A Short-billed Dowitcher was observed at Lake #9 on July 10 and a Long-billed Dowitcher, in breeding plumage, on July 25 (all details noted — CP). Gulls and Terns — A few Laughing Gulls were again reported : one at the Falls of the Ohio on June 10 (LR), one there June 14 (BPB) and one at Lake Barkley on July 1 (W. Haag, BPB). A sub-adult Franklin's Gull was noted at Louisville on July 18-22 (BPB) and on July 31 (LR, S, FS). Five Ring-billed Gulls lingered at the Falls of the Ohio during June and July (BPB), with a high of 10 present on June 10 (LR). A second-year Herring Gull remained in the vicinity of the Falls of the Ohio during June and up to late July (BPB) and an adult noted above Paducah on the Ohio River on July 1 (W. Haag, BPB). One to two Caspian Terns were seen on the Mississippi River in Carlisle and Hickman counties on June 29-30 and on the Ohio River above Paducah on July 1 (BPB, W. Haag). A Common Tern was seen on the Mississippi River downstream from Wickliffe on June 29 and a Forster’s Tern above Barkley Dam on July 1 (BPB, W. Haag) ; and another Forster’s still present on June 10 at the Falls of the Ohio (LR). Least Terns appeared to have had a good nesting year. They were numerous at two large nesting colonies in Carlisle and Hickman counties and in small numbers on the Ohio River between Paducah and Smithland Dam (BPB); also a few at Lake #9 and 21 at BWMA (including the Mississippi at Lock and Dam #53 (CP). Cuckoos through Owls — Although the Yellow-billed Cuckoo was common at CKWMA, no nests were found (GR). There were three nesting records of the rare to uncommon Barn Owl this summer: July 16, four young in a nest, near Burlington (LMc) ; early July, downy young on the ground after a large tree was uprooted by a storm in southwest Louis¬ ville, one bird captured and taken to the Zoo (PM); and nesting observed again at Stanley (TS). Four young nestling Screech Owls were banded at CKWMA, May 11 (GR). A Great Horned Owl was observed on its nest in the Danville area on April 8 (FL). Chuck-will’ s-widow through Phoebes — A Chuck-will’s-widow was still heard singing on July 31 at Madisonville (B. West fide JH ) ; a nest with two eggs was found at Richardsville, Warren County, June 6 (BF, J. Jones). There were two active nests of the Ruby-throated Hum¬ mingbird in the same tree during June at Long Ridge, Owen County (Pat Brumback, fide BPB) ; only four birds in a yard during June and July, near Madisonville, as compared to 10 last year (B. West fide JH). A nest of the Acadian Flycatcher, with young, was found at the Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve, July 4 (LMc). Eastern Phoebe nests were found at several Boone County locations; one in Carrolton, Carroll County on May 31 contained six eggs (LMc). Martins through Shrikes — The large colony of Purple Martins at Oscar, Ballard County, had decreased in size from the previous year (S, DS, FS), and young nestlings were victims of a storm, when the wind broke a pole which supported a large nesting box, in Seneca Park, Louis¬ ville (S, FS). Two pairs of Tree Swallows occupied Eastern Bluebird boxes in Shelby County on the Fred Wische Faim (fide BPB) ; no nesting observed at Long Run County Park, Jefferson County, this season (S, FS). The colony of Bank Swallows at a gravel pit in Belleview, Boone County, June 24, contained 45 burrows, with adults feeding young (LMc) ; two 61 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 63 colonies in Livingston and one in Hickman counties contained 75 to 100 burrows (BPB) and a small one with about 10 burrows was found in Lyon County (S, DS). Two new colonies of Cliff Swallows were found: one at Markland Dam, with over 40 active nests, May 23 (LMc) ; and a smaller one in Marshall County, May 15 (S, DS, FS). The Cliff Swallow colony at Barkley Dam had 70-75 nests (S, DS) and the two colonies in Carroll County had 42 nests in one and 27 in the other (S, FS) while the one at Gun Powder Creek, Boone County, held 25 active nests (LMc). Fish Crows were again present in Hickman, Carlisle (BPB) and Fulton counties (CP). A Carolina Wren’s nest with four eggs was reported at CKWMA (GR) and another with four eggs in a hanging plant at Louis¬ ville (S) and one in a motorcycle helmet from which an undetermined number of young fledged (S, FS). A Bewick’s Wren near Madisonville on July 27 was the only one reported (B. West fide JH). House Wrens appeared to have a good year. There was an increase in the number of Eastern Bluebirds on the Breeding Bird Survey in Shelby and Henry counties over last year — 14 birds as compared to three in 1986 (S). Three Eastern Bluebird nests in Warren County contained five eggs each and four young fledged from each nest (BF) ; two nests in Versailles, Woodford County, were successful (S. Hundley). There were no reports on the Loggerhead Shrike with the exception of the sighting of one in Shelby County on June 7 (WB). Warblers — Pine Warblers were found on the Hancock Farm, Madi¬ sonville, during the nesting period. They ranged mainly between two plantings of large pine trees and 10 were recorded on June 25 (JH). Cerulean Warblers (3) were heard singing in Hopkins County on June 20 (JH) and one in Madison County on the same date (GR). A Common Yellowthroat nest with young was found on July 3 at CKWMA (GR). Tanagers through Finches — Summer Tanagers appeared to be some¬ what scarce in northern Kentucky this season (LMc) ; a singing male and female were observed at Bowling Green (BF). The pair of Scarlet Tanagers at Madisonville on June 2 and a male heard singing on June 15 may have been a breeding pair (JH). There were several reports of the Blue Grosbeak: numerous in southern Pulaski and northern McCreary counties (BPB); present at seven locations in Hopkins County (JH); at Bowling Green, Warren County (BF); female at feeding station at Valley Station on June 10, 11 and 12 (DS) ; and a male present on July 3 at Barren River Reservoir State Park, Barren County (MS). A few Savannah Sparrows were present during the period in Jefferson and Oldham counties (BPB). Several reports of the Grasshopper Sparrow were received : present at several locations in Boone, Grant and Owen counties (LMc) ; four singing males at CKWMA (GR); heard in Shelby County (WB) and young fledged from a nest at Bowling Green (BF). Two singing Henslow’s Sparrows were heard at CKWMA and two in Oldham County (GR and BPB, respectively). The Song Sparrow in the past has been known to breed irregularly in Hopkins County, but this season the species was found at five locations, with six birds singing on June 11 (JH). A single Bobolink was heard in Shelby County on June 7 (WB). The habitat has changed at Goshen, where formerly the Bobolink nested, but none were found there this summer (HS). An interesting record was that of a male Yellow-headed Blackbird which appeared on the grounds of the Louisville Zoo on June 3 (MJ). The bird was seen on more than one occasion on June 3 and was photographed by Nancy Scheldorf of the Zoo staff. Good numbers 1987 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 62 of Northern (Baltimore) Orioles were seen in Shelby County on June 7 (S, WB) ; and a nest was found in Owen County (LMc). 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Dec. 20; 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 55° to 45°F; wind Var., 8 m.p.h. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 19.25 (5 on foot, 14.25 by car). Total party-miles 120 (12 on foot, 118 by car). Total species 43; total individuals 1535. Despite coverage similar to last year, no Wild Turkeys were sighted. A single flock of 50 Eastern Bluebirds was unusual. Observers: Ronnie Bryant, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Marquita Gillenwater, Wayne Mason, Herb E. Shadowen and Russell Starr. GLASGOW (center and habitat as described in 1986.) Jan. 2: 6:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 17° to 32°F; wind NW, 0-5 m.p.h. Eight observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 38.75 (24.75 on foot, 14 by car). Total party-miles 141.3 (13.5 on foot, 127.8 by car). Total species 65; total individuals 3285. Cold conditions during the early morning forced birds to hold tight to cover at field/woodland borders, but once temperatures increased toward midday, the birding improved. The low number of birds of prey was discouraging as was the decrease in the numbers of Herring Gulls. The sharp decline of Swamp Sparrows from this area continues to be a matter of concern; the two observed on this count represent the lowest total in the last 12 years. On the other hand, it is encouraging to note that wood¬ peckers, Carolina Wrens and most of the Emberizinae are increasing or maintaining stable populations. Two particularly exciting observations were the 90 Sandhill Cranes and the 12 Bonaparte’s Gulls, both of which represent firsts for the Mid-winter Bird Counts in this area. Observers: Mrs. Marquita Gillenwater, Mr. and Mrs. Howard M. Jones, Wayne M. Mason (compiler), Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Moore, and Dr. and Mrs. Russell R. Starr. HART COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as reported in 1985.) Habitat ponds, river, forest and farmland. Jan. 2; 5:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 13° to 35°F; wind calm. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 32 (17 on foot, 15 by car). Total party-miles 104 (15 on foot, 89 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 935. The Snow Goose was in with a flock of Canada Geese. Observers: J. D. Craddock, III, Nevellen Craddock, Steve Kistler (compiler), Cap Middleton, Mitchell Sturgeon and Charles Wuertzer. OTTER CREEK PARK (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 24%, woodlands 25%, farmland 26%, hedge row 10%, residential 2% and rivers and ponds 13%. Dec. 26; 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 38° to 41°F; wind N, 8-15 m.p.h. Rain the previous night and light mist until 8:00 a.m. Ten observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 35.5 (21 on foot, 14.5 by car). Total party-miles 171.5 (16 on foot, 155.5 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 7374. Heavy rains fell the night before the count and continued until 8:00 a.m. Cloudy conditions prevailed throughout the day. Waterfowl were scarce. Hawks, however, were fairly well represented. The Great Blue Heron was found by Frank Krull, Jr. The Northern (Yellow-shafted) 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 Flicker showed a 100% increase over last year’s count, while Pileated Woodpeckers showed a decrease. American Robins and the European Starling were numerous; in fact, it was the highest count for Robins. Large decreases were noted in the number of White-throated and White- crowned Sparrows and Dark-eyed (Slate-colored) Juncoes. The large number of Cedar Waxwings was probably due to the big crop of cedar berries; in fact, the wild food crop appeared to be good. Observers: Mary B. Bauer, Wayne Dahl, Frank Krull, Jr., Doxie Noonan, J. R. Noonan, Helga Schutte, Anne Stamm (compiler), Frederick W. Stamm, Donald Summerfield and Scottie Theiss. BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974.) Jan. 1; 7:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky cloudy to mostly clear; temp. 27° to 39°F; wind NW, 0-10 m.p.h. Water mostly open. Fourteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 40.5 (20 on foot, 20.5 by car). Total party-miles 287 (14 on foot, 273 by car). Total species 65; total individuals 5804. Weather conditions were fairly favorable for the count. Wild food crops appeared to be excellent. The species total was about average for the coverage of the count circle. Waterfowl were low as usual. Highlights included the sighting of both species of eagles. The adult Golden Eagle was observed feeding on a deer carcass and thoroughly studied at close range (DP, SW). The adult Bald Eagle was observed in flight not far from the Salt River near Shepherdsville (BA). Other interesting obser¬ vations included the four Great Blue Herons, the Ring-billed Gull (first count record) and the 155 Eastern Bluebirds (highest count since 1976-77). Observers: Brad Andres, Mary Bill Bauer, George Crabtree, John Finley, Katie Fulkerson, Brian Johnson, Marion Jones, Tim Love, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Donald Parker, Larry Smith, Tony Smith, Linda Stahl and Stephen Washburn. LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center jet. Hwys. 42 and 22, as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 20; 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky overcast; 40° to 57°F; wind SW-W, 10-25 m.p.h. All water open. Thirty-five observers in 12 parties. Total party-hours 109 (45 on foot, 64 by car). Total party-miles 681 (34 on foot, 647 by car). Total species 87; total individuals 1,248,634. Terrible weather conditions for a count: windy, warm, with intermit¬ tent light showers. Nevertheless, it was a reasonably good count. Only one rarity was reported (see below), and all-time highs were set on Mourning Doves and House Finches. Numbers of Eastern Meadowlarks were very low. A blackbird roost (probably not a winter roost, only temporary) was found within the count circle; line numbers in the evening for several lines (estimated to be about half the roost) amounted to about 1.2 million birds, probably a total of 2.5-3 million birds present. A Selasphorus sp. (hummingbird) has been present at a humming¬ bird feeder since late November. As of this date (4 January), this bird has been seen by many and photographed, but circumstances have not permitted examination in the hand (necessary for definitive species iden¬ tity to Rufous or Allen’s). It is apparently an immature female, very much similar to the one in southern Indiana last year (this latter bird was enticed into a basement, enclosed and released in March after surviving the winter). Close examination in the field has eliminated Broad-tailed but one can go no further. This bird will undoubtedly succumb to the 12 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 winter temperatures, although so far it has survived several nights into the teens. Observers: Garrett Adams, Mary Bauer, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Don Blackburn, K. W. Clay, Muriel Doolittle, Diane Ebel, D. L. Garst, Stuart Jenkins, Marian Jones, Frank Krull, Jr., Frank Krull, Sr., John Krull, Larry Lock, B. L. Monroe, Jr. (compiler), Mark Monroe, K. C. Mudd, Dottie Muntan, Doxie Noonan, J. R. Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Donald Parker, Jim Pasikowski, Martha Pike, Bob Quaife, Lene Rauth, Virginia Rommel, Carl Schultz, Helga Schutte, L. D. Smith, Anne Stamm, F. W. Stamm, Steve Washburn, Robert Zaremba (Beckham Bird Club). SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center .75 miles south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on Highway 714.) Habitat elevation 640’ -1190’, farm land, fallow land, residential, wooded and grassland. Jan. 2; 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 15° to 35°F; wind N-NW, 0-5 m.p.h. Three observers in 2 parties. Total party- hours 10.5 (1.5 on foot, 9 by car). Total party-miles 209 (1 on foot, 208 by car). Total species 47; total individuals 2344. Observers: W. Todd Brown and W. Horace Brown (compiler) and Betsy Davidson. FRANKFORT (center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 20; 7:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 57° to 42°F; wind SW, 18-28 m.p.h. Intermittent light rain in a.m., all water open. Twelve observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 54.5 (26 on foot, 28.5 by car). Total party-miles 366 (30 on foot, 336 by car). Total species 59; total individuals 4393. Windy conditions may have contributed to birds being found in pockets, while totally absent from other favorable locations. The waterfowl, except for a few Mallards were on the Tate Game Farm Lakes. An excellent crop of wild grapes, poison ivy berries and red cedar berries brought in fruit eaters. Our best find was the Bewick’s Wren which has been in the farm home vicinity of Mrs. Honaker for some time. House Finches have become the dominant feeder species in Frankfort. There seems to be no blackbirds around Frankfort. Sparrow numbers and species are down according to our observations. Observers: W. H. Brown, Betsy Davidson, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Howard Jones (compiler), Jeff Jones, Robert Morris, James Rettig, and Debbie and Tim Williams. KLEBER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (center and habitat as described in 1977.) Jan. 2; 6:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 7° to 33°F; wind NE, 3-9 m.p.h. No snow, small streams and lakes frozen. Seven observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 28 (14 on foot, 14 by car). Total party-miles 239 (12.5 on foot, 226.5 by car). Total species 39; total individuals 2122. No waterfowl were found although one was heard on the Kentucky River. Raptor varieties and numbers were low. Great Horned Owls seemed to be calling everywhere in the pre-dawn. White-breasted Nuthatches continue to increase on this count. Wild fruits, including red cedar berries, undoubtedly accounted for good numbers of American Robins, Cedar Wax- wings, Yellow-rumped Warblers and Purple Finches. Sparrows were hard to find and were absent completely from some usual habitat. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 Observers: Brad Andres, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Howard Jones (compiler), Terri Koontz, Sally Wasielewski and Jim Williams. LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman Church and Tates Creek Road.) Habitat farmland and residential in most of the northern two-thirds within the last few years. Dec. 19; 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy to cloudy; temp. 40° to 42°F; wind light. Morning changed to cloudy and light rain in the p.m. Thirty-seven observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 94 (26 on foot, 68 by car). Total party-miles 476 (33 on foot, 443 by car). Total species 83; total individuals 15,483. It seems that the last few years of drought has caused the number of birds to decrease. There seemed to be some food, but it was all dried up in some areas. We have had several sightings of Merlins this year. Observers: Brad Andres, Earl Boggs, Gary Boggs, Mable Boggs, Patrick Boggs, Ann Bradly, Eugene Bradly, Rose Canon, Manton Cornett, Ruth Davis, Ron Duncan, Lyda Feck, Doris Ferm, Jean Flynn, Mike Flynn, Jon Glixon, Ruth Housek, Lula Kirkland, Terri Koontz, Mike Lorton, Betty Maxson, Sarah McClellan, Bob McNeece, Robert Morris (compiler), Glenn Raleigh, Ralph Reiss, Michael Stelling, Richard Stofer, Mrs. R. Stofer, Mary Strong, Marie Sutton, Dave Svetich, Andrew Uterhart, Marion Uterhart, Glen Wells, Jim Wilson and Bernice Wood. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat 10.75% residential, 6.25% lakesides, 14% woodland, 56.25% farmland, 10.25% streamsides and 2.5% parks. Dec. 19; 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy a.m. to rain in p.m.; temp. 40° to 50°F; wind NE, 0-5 m.p.h. Twenty-five observers in 8 parties. Total party-hours 48 (14 on foot, 34 by car). Total party-miles 371.55 (21.25 on foot, 350.3 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 8904. Observers: Ernie Baird, Ron Barbato, Andy Eklund, Neil Eklund (compiler), Scott Eklund, Virginia Eklund, Torb Ergon, Mrs. Tom and Tobin Foster, John Gower, JoAnn and Mike Hamm, Morton Hoaglund, Matt Huff, Mosiell Jester, Jack Kellam, Bill Kemper, F. W. Loetscher, Eric Mount, John Nichols, Don Pelley, Louis Robinson, Joe Russell, Charles Vahlkamp and Greg Wagner. BURLINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Camp Michaels near Union, KY.) Habitat woodland and forest edge 30%, farmland and fields 30%, streams and river 30% and residential 10%. Jan. 2; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 9° to 29°F; wind N-NE, 0-10 m.p.h. Lakes and streams frozen, Ohio River open. Twenty observers in 8 parties. Total party-hours 40 (16 on foot, 22 by car, 2 by boat). Total party-miles 269 (9 on foot, 249 by car, 11 by boat). Total species 55; total individuals 2747. The Osprey was observed by boat on the Indiana side of the Ohio River by Chuck Schneider. The Brewer’s Blackbirds were seen at a Burling¬ ton feeder by Lynda McNeely. Though overall numbers of individuals were somewhat low, this represents our best count to date for number of species seen. Observers: Brenda Bellamy, Bart Braden, Joe Caminiti, Kathy Cami- niti, Elaine Carroll, Aleene Earle, Darlena Graham, Stan Hirtle, Carolyn Johnson, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (compiler), Lynda McNeely, Jim 14 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Scanlan, Chuck Schneider, George Schoen, Carmen Schulte, Pat Scott, Carla Smith, Tommy Stephens and Bill Steuver. Feeder watchers were Pat Carroll, Brenda Freking, Marjorie Hill and Ed Kennedy. WARSAW (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center War¬ saw Courthouse.) Habitat river shore 35%, open field and farmland 30%, woodland and forest edge 25% and residential 10%. Dec. 19; 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 37° to 48°F; wind SW, 5-15 m.p.h. Light rain during the afternoon, all water open. Five observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 14 (5 on foot, 9 by car). Total party-miles 77 (1.5 on foot, 75.5 by car). Total species 41; total individuals 981. Great Blue Herons were evident all along the Ohio River. The ma¬ jority of the Ring-billed Gulls were seen at Markland Dam. Surprisingly, no House Finches were found. A dark phase Red-tailed Hawk was among the highlights. Observers: Bart Braden, Darlena Graham, Lee McNeely (compiler), Jim Scanlan and Tommy Stephens. ROWAN COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Morehead.) Habitat as described previously. Dec. 18; 7:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Sky 20% clouds; temp. 27° to 41°F; wind W, 3-5 m.p.h. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 12.5 (4 on foot, 8.5 by car). Total party-miles 44 (3 on foot, 41 by car). Total species 62; total individuals 871. The Great Egret was still at the Hatchery on 7 January. Due to time limitations we did not spend as much time in the field as on previous count days. Observers: Fred M. Busroe and Jonathan A. Busroe. PERRY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Bonnyman.) Habitat deciduous woodlands, pasture and rural resi¬ dential. Jan. 2; 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sky clear; 20° to 40°F; quite cold in the morning. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 22 (21 on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles 20 (10 on foot, 10 by car). Total species 26; total individuals 320. Observers: Dennis Sandlin and Don Spencer (compiler). WEST LIBERTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 37°, 55’ N ; 83°, 15’ W.) Habitat woods, open fields, roadways, river bottoms. Jan. 1, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy to partly cloudy; temp. 28° to 3Q°F; wind NW, 15 m.p.h. No precipitation. Four observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 12 (8 on foot, 4 by car). Total party-miles 49 (8 on foot, 41 by car). Total species 47; total individuals 1881. One observer was at a home feeder. Fresh water was open. A male Common Yellowthroat was seen by both Mary K. and Garry Elam on January 3 in a swampy, weedy area where we were flushing Swamp Spar¬ rows and Song Sparrows. It first appeared on a bush in clear view no more than 30 feet from us. We watched it over a period of 10 minutes through binoculars as it dropped back into the brush and would fly back up into view. It was easily recognized by its black mask, olive back and yellow throat. We returned to the same area on January 3 and again on January 10, but failed to find it. Observers: Gerry Lee Elam (compiler), Mary K. Elam, Orville Litteral and Francis Peyton. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 15 THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1987 Anne L. Stamm The fall season of 1987 was unusually warm throughout the period and rainfall was much below normal (12 inches short for the year). On 20 days during August the temperature ranged from 90 to 92 degrees and on September 14 a record was set at Paducah with a 92 degree reading. A few mild cold fronts on August 23 and September 19 brought various species of warblers and other passerine transients, but in small numbers. October and November averaged out warmer than normal. And there was little snowfall with only a dusting at Louisville on November 10 while Frankfort and Lexington received about an inch of snow. The dry season caused ponds and small lakes to dry up and this limited shorebird habitat. Duck migration was late and poor. The hawk migration appeared to be missed. Most observers felt that the season was dull and uninteresting, although a number of rare and unusual species of birds were reported. A Northern Gannet was seen flying South along Interstate 65 about five miles north of the Kentucky-Tennessee line. Other- rare and unusual species were the following: Peregrine Falcon, Laughing Gull, Franklin’s Gull, Snowy Owl and Sharp-tailed Sparrow. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area (Bal¬ lard County), CKWMA = Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, BBC = Beckham Bird Club, KOS = Kentucky Ornithological Society, SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area. Loons through Herons — No large movement of the Common Loon was detected. A fairly early bird was observed above Kentucky Dam on Sep¬ tember 10 (CP) and one to two were seen on a few dates during October and November at the following location: Lake Pewee (JH), Mayfair Basins at Louisville (JK) and along the Ohio River (LR, BPB). Pied¬ billed Grebes were few except at Lake Pewee where they peaked at 109 October 15 (JH). Horned Grebes were also scarce with a maximum of 15 at Louisville on November 10 (BPB). Quite unusual was the sighting of a Northern Gannet flying south along Interstate 65, about five miles north of the Kentucky-Tennessee border, Simpson County, November 29. This represents the second record for Kentucky (M. Braun et cil. — docu¬ mentation received). Quite unexpected was an American White Pelican at Burnside Marina, Pulaski County, October 24 (fide JE1). Several sight¬ ings of the Double-crested Cormorant were reported : one at McAlpine Dam, August 19 (LR) ; two at Mayfair Basins on September 19 (S, FS) ; one at Markland Dam, Gallatin County, November 14 (LMc) ; nine on the Mississippi River, Carlisle County, September 20 (BPB) ; one to three along the Ohio River at Louisville during September and October (BPB) and last observed on November 26 (LR). Great Blue Herons were wide¬ spread and largest concentrations included 75 on sandbars on the Missis¬ sippi River, Carlisle County, September 20 (BPB), some 40-45 at Jonathan Creek, Marshall County, November 6 and 29 (MM, CP) ; and 50+ at BWMA by the end of November (CW). Smaller numbers were present at the following locations: Lake Barkley Shallows (CP), Elk Creek and Lake Pewee (JH), Petersburg, Boone County (LMc), Mayfair Basins (JK, S, FS), Danville (FL) and Owsley Fork Lake (AR, TR). A few Great Egrets were present during August and September with 17 at Lake #9, Fulton County, August 11 (CP) ; one at the Falls of the Ohio August 25-26 (RH, LR, respectively); three at BWMA August 29 (BPB); three 16 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 at Mayfair Basins on August 30 (S, FS) ; three were still present at Jonathan Creek on September 21 and 10 at BWMA on September 22 (CP). Three Snowy Egrets were present at BWMA on August 3 (JE1) ; one at Lake #9 August 11 (CP) and 18 at Mitchell Lake, Ballard County, August 29 (BPB). Little Blue Heron concentrations included 60+ (mostly immatures) at Lake #9 August 3 (JE1), 27 (25 immatures, 2 adults) August 11 (CP) and 17 at BWMA, August 29 (BPB). One to three were also seen between July 19 and September 12 at the following locations: the Falls of the Ohio (BF, JJ), Game Farm, Daviess County (AP), and Mayfair Basins (DN). A single Cattle Egret was seen at BWMA on August 3 (JE1) ; six at Lake #9 on August 29 and 25 in a pasture with cattle at Oscar, Ballard County, September 20 (BPB). Strangely enough, few observers mentioned the Black-crowned Night-Heron, but an immature was seen on the west side of Lake Barkley, August 27 (CP) and at least 10 (adults and immatures) at Lentz’s Pond, Louisville, from August 30- September 19 (S, FS). Two immature Yellow-crowned Night-Herons were also at Lentz’s Pond, August 30 (S). Waterfowl — Snow and Canada Geese arrived at BWMA September 20, but numbers were low in comparison to previous years. November counts at BWMA totaled 6500 Snows and 8600 Canada Geese (CW). The duck migration was late and the flight was generally poor. Ducks at BWMA peaked at 7700 in November with 90% Mallards (CW). A total of 50+ Wood Ducks at the Mayfair Basins was a good count for that location (JK). A single American Black Duck returned to McAlpine Dam on August 25 (LR.) Largest concentration of Mallards at Lake Pewee occurred on November 25 with 163 birds (JH). Gadwall Ducks were slow in arriving: three noted at Jonathan Creek by September 19, numbers increased and 20 were there November 22 (CP) and 50 at Lake Pewee on November 28 (BPB). The first Canvasback appeared at Louisville November 10 and only three had arrived by November 26 (BPB, LR, respectively); two at Lake Pewee on November 12 (JH), but 43 there by November 28 (BPB). Ring-necked Ducks reached a maximum of 350 at Lake Pewee on November 18 (JH), which was much lower than the count last year. The only Greater Scaups reported were the five at Louisville, November 26 (LR). Lesser Scaup, when reported, were in lower numbers than usual. The only Common Goldeneye Ducks reported were two at Mayfair Basins, November 26 (JK) and one at Lake Pewee No¬ vember 28 (BPB). Hooded Mergansers were numerous at only two loca¬ tions: sixty-eight was the high count at Lake Pewee (JH) and 890 in a flock at Honker Bay of Lake Barkley, Trigg County November 29 (BPB). This flock represents the largest ever reported in the state. Only a few Red-breasted Mergansers were present at Louisville from November 10 to November 17 (BPB, LR, respectively), but 75 were present on Lake Barkley, just north of Silo Overlook, November 29 (BPB). Two to six Ruddy Ducks were noted from September 4-November 18 at the following locations: Jonathan Creek (CP), McAlpine Dam (LR) and Lake Pewee (JH), but 225 were at the latter location on November 28 (BPB). Haivks through Cranes — A roost near Bondurant, Fulton County, held 45 Black and Turkey Vultures on August 11 (CP) and a roost with at least 50 Black Vultures was seen at Taylorsville Lake, Spencer County, August 21. It was surprising that only eight Turkey Vultures were ob¬ served in the latter roost (S, FS). A single Osprey appeared at the Falls of the Ohio as early as August 7 (LR) and another at Petersburg, August 10 (LMc). September sightings of the Osprey included singles at Kentucky 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 17 Lake at Pine Bluff, near Hamlin, Jonathan Creek, Lake Pewee, the Falls of the Ohio, Rabbit Hash in Boone County, and Fishing Creek Recreational Area, Pulaski County. A single Mississippi Kite was noted flying over Lake Mitchell on August 3 (JE1) and three in the vicinity of Sassafras Ridge, Fulton County on August 11 (CP). In November a pair of Bald Eagles was observed at the nest in BWMA, which was active last year (CW) ; one perched at the Fulton County nest (J. MacGregor fide BPB) ; an adult at Lake Pewee on November 28 (BPB); two adults at Bailey Hollow as early as September 17 (CP) ; and a banded immature at Har- rods Creek, Jefferson County on November 10. “The bird proved to be a hacked bird from Monroe Reservoir near Bloomington, Indiana that had been on the lake for a few days prior to the observation” (BPB). Northern Harriers were scarce and only reported as singles at Jonathan Creek (CP, MM), Elk Creek and Dozier Lake in Hopkins County (JH) and at Petersburg (LMc). Sharp-shinned Hawks were reported at Otter Creek (RH), Mayfair Basins (JK), Berea (AR) and Somerset (JE1). Single Cooper’s Hawks were observed at Hopkins, Boone, Kenton, Madison and Pulaski counties. No hawk flights were reported. A Peregrine Falcon was observed at Jonathan Creek October 3 and 5 (CP, MM) and a road killed immature was picked up, south of Kingston, Madison County on October 8 by Steve Kickert. The carcass was given to Eastern Kentucky University and the US Fish and Wildlife Service was notified (GR). Seven Wild Turkeys were noted in Trigg County on August 4 (JE1). A few Soras were flushed at SWMA, Henderson County on September 5 (BPB) and one at Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County, September 12 (LMc). There were no large flocks of American Coots this fall except at Lake Pewee, where an estimated 3000 were present on November 25 (JH). A single American Coot appeared at BWMA on August 3 (JE1). On October 28 three flocks of Sandhill Cranes totaling more than 100 were seen flying over Sequoya Road in east Louisville (KC) ; A few heard going over Danville (FL) and two at BWMA during the period (no date given — CW) . Shorebirds — Shorebird migration was not spectacular and numbers were low. The drought in Kentucky dried up ponds and shorebird habitat was limited. Black-bellied Plovers were present at four locations in num¬ bers from one to four while Lesser Golden-Plovers (single birds) showed up at three locations. Three Semipalmated Plovers returned to Lake #9 by July 11 (CP), seven on August 3 (JE1) ; five at Jonathan Creek (CP) — and six in Carisle County (BPB), September 21 and 20, respectively. Flocks of Killdeer fluctuated during August and September from 50-150 at the Falls of the Ohio, 100 along the Mississippi sandbars in Carlisle County (BPB) to 125 at Jonathan Creek (CP). Eight Avocets were observed at the Falls of the Ohio on September 12 (LR) and two there September 13 (RH). Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs were present only in small numbers. Upland Sandpipers, usually rare in fall, showed up at two locations: two birds at Jonathan Creek on August 11 (CP) ; one August 22 (MM) ; and one at the Falls of the Ohio August 22 (BBC). Single Sanderlings were seen at Ham¬ lin Island, Calloway County, July 25 (MM), Jonathan Creek August 21 (CP) ; a few at the Falls of the Ohio (no specific dates given) and 28 on a mudflat along the Mississippi River in Carlisle County, September 20 (BPB). A White-rumped Sandpiper at Louisville on August 11 was the only one reported (LR). A Baird’s Sandpiper returned to the Falls of the Ohio on August 2 (JP, BBC) ; later sightings of one to two birds were at lake #9, Jonathan Creek, BWMA, SWMA (BPB) and Louisville (RH). Few ob¬ servers commented on the Pectoral, but numbers were apparently low, 18 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 although 75 were counted at BWMA on August 29. Dunlin were late and only a few had returned by late November. Stilt Sandpipers were present at the Falls of the Ohio on August 2 (JP) and August 5 (JE1) ; nine at Lake #9 (CP) ; a high count of 15 at Jonathan Creek (MM) and 17 at BWMA on September 20 (BPB). The only Buff-breasted Sandpiper was one at Falls of the Ohio, September 7 (JE1, BPB, M. Stinson). Short¬ billed Dowitchers were present from August 3 to August 30 in numbers from one to four; all were in western Kentucky. Three Common Snipe returned to BWMA August 29 (BPB), but 18 were present at Jonathan Creek on November 29 (CP). Gulls through Terns — Two immature Laughing Gulls, rare late summer visitants, were present above Barkley Dam on August 30 (LR) and a juvenile plumaged bird at the same location on September 5 may have been one of the two previously recorded birds (BPB). The Franklin’s Gull which had been present at the Falls of the Ohio in late July was still present on August 2 (JP) ; three there on September 12 (BPB) ; and one at Jonathan Creek on October 3 (CP). A Bonaparte’s Gull was un¬ usually early at Louisville on August 2 and established an early state date (JP, BBC). One to three Bonaparte’s Gulls were observed in Boyle County (FL) ; eight at Jonathan Creek on November 4 and 10 at Lake Barkley, north of US 68 on November 22 (CP). A good movement de¬ veloped on November 28 and 29 with 25 birds at Lake Barkley at Kuttawa and 160 at Kentucky Lake above the dam (BPB). Ring-billed and Herring Gulls were present but in less than normal numbers. One to two Caspian Terns were present at the Falls of the Ohio on August 5 and 11 (JE1, LR). A Common Tern was seen at Doe Run Lake, Kenton County on August 17 (EG) and four to ten on September 12 at Louisville (LR, BPB). Six Forster’s Terns were noted along the Mississippi River, Carlisle County on August 29 (BPB) ; some 20-25 at the Falls of the Ohio on September 12 (BPB) and one still present the following day (LR). There were several sightings of the Least Tern: seventeen at Lake Mitchell and five at Lake #9 on August 3 (JE1) ; fourteen at the latter location on August 11 (CP) ; one still there on August 29 (BPB) and one at the Falls of the Ohio September 1 (LR). Two Black Terns had arrived at the Falls of the Ohio by July 19 (BF), 17 were there on August 9 (RH, M. Stinson), two on August 15 (DN), and six on Sep¬ tember 12 (LR); one at Jonathan Creek on August 28 (MM). Cuckoo through Swallows — A Black-billed Cuckoo was reported at Louisville on September 19 (BPB). A Snowy Owl observed near Florence, Boone County on November 10 was unexpected and created much ex¬ citement (LMc et al.) . Flocks of Common Nighthawks totaling 500 + birds were seen along the Snyder Freeway, Jefferson County on August 30 (DN); some 200+ at Science Hill, Pulaski County on September 7 (JE1); moderate flights at Danville on August 31 (FL); and 100+ at Bowling Green (BF). A Chuck-will’s-widow was last heard in Hopkins County on September 13 and established a late date (Bonnie West fide JH). An interesting record on August 30 was five Whip-poor-wills flying over Bowling Green; one bird calling (BF). A fair migration of Chimney Swifts noted on August 22 when 500 were seen at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB); some 75 over Ten Broeck in east Louisville on August 30 (S, FS) ; one rather late straggler over Frankfort on October 31 (Sherri Evans fide BPB). More than 30 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds gathered at feeders at Land Between the Lakes on August 4 (JE1). A Yellow-bellied Flycatcher was studied carefully on the Surrey Hill Farm, Louisville on 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 19 August 23 (BPB). Swallow concentrations included 50 Tree Swallows at Owsley Fork Lake on October 3 (AR, TR) ; a flock of 500 swallows at Lake #9 consisted of approximately one-half Bank and one-half Cliff Swallows on August 29 (BPB). The report of small nesting colonies of the Cliff Swallow in Greenup and Lewis counties during July came too late for inclusion in the 1987 Nesting Season Report. These new colonies extend the species breeding range to extreme northeastern Kentucky (J. Macgregor fide BPB). Crows through Shrikes — A flock of 1000 American Crows was seen along Interstate 65 and the Outer Loop, Louisville on November 23 and suggested the existence of a winter roost (DN). A single Fish Crow was reported in Carlisle County on August 29 (BPB). Brown Creepers were late in arriving and few were reported. Single Winter Wrens returned to Creason Park and Otter Creek Park on September 26 (DN, RH, respectively). The Sedge Wren singing close to the road between Dalton and Beulah, Hopkins County on August 25 was noteworthy (JH). Several Marsh Wrens were observed at SWMA on October il (BPB). The Golden-crowned Kinglet was not reported at CKWMA until October 22 (GR). No kinglet movement was noted. The Ruby-crowned Kinglet was first observed at Creason Park on September 26 (DN) and at Madison- ville on October 13 (JH) and at CKWMA on October 16 (GR) ; all later than normal. It was a rather poor fall for the Water Pipits, several flocks at Surrey Hill Farm in mid-November were the only groups. A few were at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) and singles at Camp Ernst, Boone County (LMc) and at Science Hill, Pulaski County in late October and early November (JE1). Single Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from only Boone, Boyle and Pulaski counties (LMc, FL, JE1, respectively). Warblers — The warbler migration was drawn out and continued through mid-October. The flight was “poor especially for Myrtles and Bay¬ breasted.” Three Chestnut-sided Warblers arrived at Louisville on August 23, the same date the birds returned in 1979, 1980 and 1981 (BPB). A Cape May Warbler was rather early at Danville on September 2 (FL) ; our earliest record is for September 1. Single Black-throated Blue Warblers were recorded at Natural Bridge State Park on September 26 (KOS) and in the Danville area on October 8 (FL). Blackburnian Warblers were observed at Burlington on August 29 (LMc) and the species appeared to be more common than usual at Danville (FL). A male Cerulean Warbler on August 31 in a non-breeding area near Danville was unexpected (FL). American Redstarts began appearing in the Burlington area as early as August 29 (LMc) ; two at Louisville on September 8 (MS) ; three at Glasgow on September 10 (FJ); and 10 at Bowling Green (BF). Single Mourning Warblers were present at CKWMA on September 7 (GR) and at Louisville on September 19 (BPB). Canada Warblers were reported at Doe Run Lake, Kenton County (EG), Louisville (BPB) and Westport (BBC). Buntings through Grosbeaks — - A small flock of Indigo Buntings at Petersburg on October 17 were rather late stragglers (LMc). A note¬ worthy record was that of a Sharp-tailed Sparrow at SWMA on October 11 (photograph being developed — BPB, R. Cassell). Perhaps due to the mild fall few Fox Sparrows had returned to Kentucky. One was re¬ corded at CKWMA on November 11 (GR) ; only one in the Danville area by the end of the period (FL) ; and one the last week of November in the Louisville area (JF). Four Lincoln Sparrows were reported: one at 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Creason Park on September 26 (DN, BBC); singles at CKWMA on October 11 and 26 (GR); and one at Petersburg on October 31 (LMc). Swamp Sparrow arrival dates included one at Creason Park on September 26 (DN, BBC) and at CKWMA on October 1 (GR). White-throated and White-crowned Sparrows arrived later than normal. The majority of observers found the former in early October, but there were three Sep¬ tember dates: September 23 at Ft. Wright (EG), September 26 at Natural Bridge State Park (KOS) and September 27 at CKWMA (GR). A Bobolink on October 18 at SWMA was fairly late (DN, M. Pike). Black¬ bird flocks “seemed strangely absent” in the Danville area (FL). A flock of approximately 2000 birds, mainly Red-winged Blackbirds and a few Brown-headed Cowbirds, was present for several days in the Ten Broeek area, Jefferson County, in mid-November (S, FS). Rusty Blackbirds were late and few in numbers: first recorded at Petersburg on November 11 (LMc); about five in a Louisville yard on November 26 (DN). Only a few Purple Finches were present by mid-November in three locations. Pine Siskins were reported from six widely separated locations, with the greatest concentration at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County — 50 birds on October 28 (KC). The only report of the presence of Evening Grosbeaks came from Berea on November 25 (number not given — AR and TR). Contributors — Kathryn Clay (KC), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Ed Grone- man (EG), Blaine Ferrell (BF), John Finley (JF), James Hancock (JH), Richard Healy (RH), Frances Jones (FJ), Jeff Jones (JJ), John Krull (JK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), D. Noonan (DN), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), A. L. Powell (AP), Lene Rauth (LR), Gary Ritchison (GR), Art and Tina Rickets (AR, TR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Marguerite Sullivan (MS), Charles Wilkins (CW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. MIDWINTER BIRD COUNTS AT MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK In terms of number and variety of species, the midwinter bird counts at Mammoth Cave National Park have not been as productive as other counts but nonetheless they have been interesting. Dr. Gordon Wilson, accompanied by a “young friend”, Russell Starr, made the first count in 1938 but did not return until 1945 when gasoline became available once again. The counts have continued without interruption since 1945. Com¬ pilers have included Gordon Wilson (1938-1967), Mrs. James Gillenwater (1968-1975), H. E. Shadowen (1976-1981), and Blaine Ferrell (1982- present) . Mammoth Cave National Park was authorized by Congress in 1926, land was gradually purchased, and in 1941 the Park was established. Some of the area was under cultivation before 1800, but with the cessation of farming most of the region has returned to forest habitat. A few areas around the Park headquarters, residences, and cemeteries remain un¬ wooded. Descriptions of the Park and the changes it has undergone have been described by Wilson (Bird changes in M.C.N.P., 1938-1949, The 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 21 Kentucky Warbler, vol. XXVI, No. 2, May 1950; Bird changes in M.C.N.P., 1950-1957, The Kentucky Warbler, vol. XXXIV, No. 1, Feb. 1958). Dr. Wilson, in his publication for the Park in 1968, Birds and their habitats in Mammoth Cave National Park, listed 42 permanent bird residents, 53 summer residents, 27 winter residents, and 80 transients. The status of some of the species has changed since 1968. The Kentucky Ornithological Society has met for several spring meetings at the Park because of the large number of transient and resident birds present in the spring, but many fewer species are observed during the winter months. Each of the 43 midwinter bird counts at the Park has been published in The Kentucky Warbler. Thirteen species have been recorded on every count and 32 others on most counts. Ninety six species have been seen on the count days. Fifteen species have been observed only on one count; these include the Double-crested Cormorant, Snow Goose, Green-winged Teal, Blue-winged Teal, Gadwall, Canvasback, Greater Scaup, Redhead, Common Merganser, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Sedge Wren, Gray Catbird, Redpoll, and Chipping Sparrow. The six species recorded on two counts include the Canada Goose, Northern Pintail, Sandhill Crane, Northern Harrier, Common Snipe, and Rock Dove. The four species seen on three counts are the Pied-billed Grebe, American Woodcock, Palm Warbler, and Rusty Blackbird. No species show an obvious increase in numbers over the years, but the following species appear to be decreasing in numbers: Carolina Wren, Bewick’s Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Northern Mocking¬ bird, and Savannah Sparrow. One might expect the forest species to remain constant or increase and the birds of open areas to decrease, but this has not always been reflected in the counts. Some species, such as the Red-headed Woodpecker remain disappointingly low in number; others, such as the American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, Eastern Bluebird, and European Starling, are unpredictable and show great fluctuation from year to year. It should be remembered that weather conditions and the number of people participating on the counts also fluctuate. The dates of the M.C.N.P. midwinter counts have always been between December 15 and January 2. The number of observers has varied from two to 28, with the usual number of participants from five to eight. The number of bird species recorded has varied from 32 in 1954 to 57 in 1960 and 1966, with an average of 44 species per count. Thus, the number of species recorded has been lower than that of most Kentucky counts. This is probably due to fewer participants, difficulty in checking some of the more remote areas of the Park, and homogeneity of the count area with little habitat diversity. The number of individual birds recorded per count has varied from 471 to 11,818, with an average number of approxi¬ mately 1,200. Only two counts have yielded more than 4,500 individuals; the 1964 count was 11,647 and included 2,779 Robins, 1,693 Cedar Wax- wings, and 1,021 Starlings; the 1982 count was 11,818 and included an unexpected influx of 10,503 Common Grackles. Participants on the M.C.N.P. midwinter count do not expect to see the number and variety of birds observed on other counts in Kentucky, but they do enjoy the experience of spending a day hiking through deep wooded areas and along streams away from population centers and often encountering other forms of wildlife. — H. E. Shadowen, Dept, of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Ky. 42101. 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 BOOK REVIEW A FIELD GUIDE TO HAWKS/NORTH AMERICA, by William S. Clark and illustrated by Brian K. Wheeler. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, 1987. 198 pp. $13.95. The latest addition to the Peterson Field Guide Series, no. 35, A Field Guide to Hawks provides information on the raptor species occurring north of Mexico. In meeting the goal of a field guide, to provide informa¬ tion to distinguish taxonomic groups, the authors present text, plates, and photographs. The plates are inserted in the center of the book as in many of the other Peterson Field Guides. Introductory notes include a preface by R. T. Peterson, a section on how to identify flying raptors, and in illustra¬ tion of raptor topography. Clark provides a thorough description of plumage variation in each species centering on age, sex, subspecies, fine detail, and aberrant charac¬ teristics. For instance, the description of Red-tailed Hawk subspecies continues for four pages. The compactness of the readable descriptions abet their use in the field. A paragraph contrasting similar species and one describing flight patterns are the forte of the text. Status and distribu¬ tion descriptions and accompanying range maps are current and are as detailed as a continental treatment will allow. Notes on behavior, measure¬ ments and etymology of the scientific name complete the species description. One other aspect of the text deserves mention. A bibliography of more than 450 citations on raptor biology is included. To keep such an extensive bibliography from being overwhelming, Clark wisely included a species index subdivided by topic. Wheeler’s plates, depicting several plumages and postures, are ar¬ ranged by similarly shaped species. Descriptive text is also provided with the plates. Although his portrayals of perched birds are respectable, Wheeler’s depictions of in-flight cigar-shaped birds lack the artistry found in other bird field guides. I also find the colors of the plumages to be somewhat dark. Following the text are 40 pages of 2x2 inch black and white photo¬ graphs. Although many of the photos of flying birds show good charac¬ ters, their small size is somewhat limiting. The section seems overexpanded by including perched bird photos and some rather marginal photos. For example, an arrow pointing to the chestnut shoulder of a Harris’ Hawk seems meaningless in black and white photography. Perhaps better editing of the photo section would have reduced the price tag of this publication. Overall, I think the newest field guide is a good purchase and would be used by any hawk-watcher. The information provided by the authors is valuable to every level of ornithologist. The use of this field guide will be enhanced if the reader can surmount the temptation to turn only to the plates and spend some time reading the text. — Brad Andres, Department of Zoology, The Ohio State University, 1735 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio, 43210. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 FIELD NOTES SECOND RECORD OF RUFF IN KENTUCKY On 17 April 1987, Merry Toole and I were birding in the Kentucky portion of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Fulton County when we found a female Ruff ( Philomachus pugnax) feeding in a flooded field with approximately 80 Lesser Yellowlegs ( Tringa flavipes). The Reeve was found at about 10:00 a.m. CDT and was studied for nearly an hour as it waded in shallow water remaining in a low field after heavy rain. Several photographs were obtained that clearly identify the bird. The Reeve was approximately the same size as the many Lesser Yellowlegs, but it was a much stockier bird, reminiscent of a knot or dowitcher in build. The bill was quite short and straight, but somewhat thickened at the base and was very similar in proportion to that of a Ruff-breasted Sandpiper. The underparts were white except for the throat and upper breast which were profusely marked with a scalloping of gray and occasional blackish feathers. The back and wings were a medium brown without rusty tones, but not nearly so gray as those of yellowlegs. Most back feathers were brown, but a few were blackish, and all were edged with a very obvious buffy border giving a scaley appearance. The legs were a pale yellow-green, similar in color to that of a Stilt Sandpiper and not as long as those of yellowlags. A light supercilium was present as was an area of whitish feathers around the base of the bill. The Reeve was very nervous and several times flew short distances when approached. In flight the tail pattern characteristic of this species was very obvious. The upper tail coverts appeared white on the sides and rear, framing a darker central area and covering the base of the tail feathers which appeared uniformly pale sandy brown. This pattern formed a narrow “U” shape of bold white when the bird flew away. There was a narrow wing-stripe, not as bold as that of a Sanderling, and the underwing linings were strikingly white. Later in the day, the Reeve was found approximately three-quarters of a mile to the northwest in another part of the refuge and was studied again at length. The bird continued to appear nervous and flew short distances when approached. Several times a low “grunt” was heard when the bird was on the wing. This represents the second record of the Ruff in Kentucky and first to be documented by photograph. Frederick Loetscher reported the sight¬ ing of a bird in Boyle County, 4 May 1968 (Loetscher, KW 44:43-44, 1968). — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, Ky. 40222. OBSERVATIONS OF NESTING COMMON BARN-OWLS IN BOONE COUNTY On July 16, 1987 I was informed by Bill Moring of Raptor Inc., a local bird of prey rehabilitation organization, that a nest of Common Barn-Owls (Tyto alba) had been discovered near Burlington. The nest was found by firewood cutters, who unfortunately destroyed the nest site. Two birds of undetermined age flew from the tree, while four younger birds fell to the ground. These four were subsequently placed in the stall 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 of a horse barn adjacent to the nest tree. The nest had been located ap¬ proximately 35 feet high in a cavity of an American Beech tree, % mile north of Burlington. The following day the four young birds were taken by Raptor Inc. and examined for any apparent injuries. One bird was determined to have a broken leg, while the other three appeared in good health. On July 18, it was decided to place the youngest owl in an artificial nest box on top of the remaining portion of the nest tree, in anticipation that feeding would continue by the parent birds. This proved unsuccessful though, when the nestling left the box and again fell to the ground during the night, where it was recovered the following morning. On July 19, the three healthy young owls were placed once again in the stall of the horse barn. Much to the delight of those involved, it became apparent during daily checks that the birds were indeed being fed. Numerous pellets were found over the next few days, along with an occasional uneaten Meadow Vole. The three young birds were last observed in the stall on July 28, when it was felt that all three were capable of flying on their own. One parent bird was observed with the young on this date by Bill Moring, and the following day the stall was empty. On September 2, the fourth young owl was released back into the wild at the original nest site. Much appreciation is extended to Bill Moring and Raptor Inc. for their knowledge and efforts which were the major factor in the apparent success of this nesting. — - LEE McNEELY, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. SPRING MEETING The Spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held at Otter Creek Park on April 29-May 1. Be sure to make your reservations for room accommodations early. Cabins are also available. Mark the dates on your calendar and plan to enjoy good birding with good friends. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact the Program Chairperson, Virginia King- solver, Route 1, Carlisle, Kentucky 40311. K.O.S. MOURNS JOSEPH E. CROFT As we go to press we were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Joseph E. Croft. He died on January 19, 1988 at Scottsville, Virginia. Dr. Croft was a Life Member and assistant editor of The Kentucky Warbler from February 1967-May 1973. His ornithological studies and publications in The Kentucky Warbler were many and noteworthy. His passing leaves a big void in ornithological circles and he will be greatly missed by his many friends. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 64 MAY. 1988 NO. 2 IN THIS ISSUE THE WINTER SEASON, 1987-1988, Anne L. Stamm . 27 BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY — 1988, Lynda Andrews, Roger Yancey and James Durell . 31 THE K.O.S. SPRING MEETING . 32 FIELD NOTES . 34 NEWS AND VIEWS . 36 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Vice-President Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Jim Williams, Lexington Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle John Krull 1108 Whetstone Way, Louisville, KY 40223 Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors: Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1986-1988 Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro 1986-1988 Clell Peterson, Murray 1988-1990 Donnie Spencer, Hazard 1988-1990 Retiring President Fred Busroe, Morehead Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for our cover photograph of the Great Blue Heron (300 mm Nikon, F3, 400 Tmax film) 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 THE WINTER SEASON, 1987-88 This was a rather mild winter, particularly in December. There was little snowfall with the exception of light snow on January 7-8, with heavier amounts on February 11-12 in most of the state. A number of counties in central Kentucky closed schools on February 12 due to the icy conditions beneath the snow. This change in the weather pattern brought a few Snow Buntings and numerous Horned Larks to the Louisville area. The rainfall in most of the state was about average. The season seemed uneventful to many observers, especially those who watch feeders. The mild winter kept some birds farther north and there¬ fore numbers were reduced. Two observers felt that “field and roadside birds” seemed scarcer than ever.” On the other hand, the season was high¬ lighted by the sighting of Ross’ Geese, Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Iceland Gull, Oldsquaw, Snowy Owl and Selasphorus hummingbird. What a treat for those persons lucky enough to see those rarities! A few species lingered beyond their normal departure dates. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Bal¬ lard County; CBC = Christmas Bird Count; K&B Dams = Kentucky and Barkley Dams; CKWMA = Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area; LP = Lake Pewee; Reelfoot NWR = Reefoot National Wildlife Refuge. Loons through Herons — Three Common Loons remained until January 10 at Green River Lake, Taylor County ( J El ) . There were 30-50 Pied¬ billed Grebes at LP on December 26 (BPB). A Horned Grebe was still present at Green River Lake on January 10 (JE1). Spring migrants re¬ appeared in late February with two at Cave Run Lake (FB), one at New¬ burgh Dam, Henderson County (BPB), and three at Owsley Fork Lake, Jackson County (AR, TR). The fall migration of Double-crested Cormor¬ ants continued through December. A single bird noted in Trigg County, December 9 (CP), seven on the shore of Shippingport Island, Jefferson County, December 11 (LR) and an immature in the Danville area January 30, the first winter record there (FL). Great Blue Herons were numerous and widespread. Concentrations included 60 at Mayfair Basins, Louisville, January 23 (FK), 40 at Lake Barkley, February 26 (CP), 17 along the Ohio River in Gallatin County, December 19 (LMc), 16 at Silo Overlook on Lake Barkley, February 20 (BPB), and an average of 19 birds per trip (nine trips) to Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County (FB). A Great Egret lingered at Clark Hatchery and was present on December 18 (FB), De¬ cember 30 (BA) and January 8 (FB). Waterfowl — A Mute Swan was seen at Grassy Pond, Henderson County, February 27 (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). Snow Geese peaked at 12,000 at BWMA with some 9,000 still present in February (CW) ; and one in Fulton County with a large flock of Canada Geese on February 17 (CP). Two Ross’ Geese were discovered at a large pond in Danville on February 14 by William Kemper and observed the following day by Frederick Loet- scher. They mingled with a large flock of Canada Geese. The geese, accord¬ ing to the owner of the pond, had been there two to three weeks earlier. They left the area on March 2 (FL). This is only the second known record for the species in Kentucky. Two Ross’ Geese were also found at BWMA on February 21 (BPB, D. Parker), where the birds had first been discovered in November 1986. Canada Geese were more widespread and more numerous than last winter. The total count at BWMA in January was 41,000 and 58,750 in February (CW). The latter high count was probably due to the 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLES Vol. 64 influx of birds from farther south moving northward. A large concentra¬ tion of 5,000 was also present in southern Fulton County on February 17 (CP) ; smaller groups of 37 and 30 were along the Ohio at River Hash, Boone County (LMc) and Rock Haven, Meade County (DS, S), respective¬ ly, and more birds than usual frequented the Rough River area (KC). The duck population at BWMA was only 7,875 in December as compared with 19,000 in December 1985 (CW). A male Wood Duck at Dix Dam on January 30 was the first to be recorded there (FL). Black Ducks and Mallards were reported as “abundant” in the Danville area (FL). Blacks totaled 100+ on the Ohio at Louisville, January 29 (LR) and a similar number at Cave Hill Cemetery (S). At least 1,000 Mallards were observed in Liv¬ ingston County on February 20 (BPB, D. Parker) and 1,000 in western Henderson County on February 28 (BPB); 200 at LP on January 12, where most of the lake was frozen (JH) and smaller numbers at other locations. Fifty Northern Pintails were seen in Livingston County, Febru¬ ary 14 and 30+ in western Henderson County on February 27-28 (BPB). Fifty Gadwall and at least 30-50 Canvasbacks were noted at LP on De¬ cember 26 (BPB), but 1,150 Canvasbacks were at Lake Barkley, above the Dam on February 14 (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). Other Canvasback records in¬ cluded 30 at Smithand Dam, February 20, 65 near Grassy Pond, February 26 (BPB) ; a few at Danville (FL) and 14 at Louisville on January 20 (LR). Redheads began showing up from February 18-28, but only in small flocks. Concentrations of Ring-necked Ducks were mainly in the Land be¬ tween the Lakes area and at LP, with the highest number at the latter. Counts at LP ranged from 322 to 750 to 1,500 during December 26 - Febru¬ ary 22 (JH, BPB). There were several sightings of Greater Scaup. At least one Greater Scaup was seen on LP on December 26 (BPB) ; five on the BWMA CBC (m.ob.) ; several at Smithland Dam, February 14-20 (BPB) ; one at Towhead Island on February 18 (S, W. and P. Peaks) ; and others along the Ohio River at Louisville in February (BPB). An Oldsquaw was seen at Towhead Island on February 18 (LR, m.ob.) Common Goldeneyes were widespread, but no large numbers were reported. Largest numbers of Buffleheads included 35+ at LP and 50 at Honker Lake in Land Between the Lakes (BPB). An estimated 623 Hooded Mergansers were on the CBC at LBL, December 18 (CP) ; some 67 at Green River Lake on January 10 (JE1) ; and 35-50 at LP, December 26 (BPB). Ten Red-breasted Mer¬ gansers were present at Louisville on the Ohio on December 27 (LR) and one at Markland Dam, Gallatin County (LMc) were the only ones reported. Ruddy Ducks were few, but 75-100 at LP (BPB). Hawks — More than 40 Black and Turkey Vultures were seen in west¬ ern Kentucky in the vicinity of U.S. 68 and Rt. 1489 on January 16 (CP). Black Vultures were seen more often than usual and in larger numbers at Danville (FL) ; eight in Fayette County on December 28 (W. Haag fide GR). A single Turkey Vulture was seen January 2 near Berea, where January records are few, but they were easily observed by late February (AR). An Osprey in early February at Cumberland Falls was unusual (Steve Kickert fide GR). Numbers of wintering Bald Eagles were reduced from last year, possibly a result of the greater availability of open water. Details of the January survey are published in this issue. Bald Eagles were observed at the Fulton County nest near Hickman in late February (L. Andrews fide BPB) and at the old BWMA nest, but left the area in mid-March (L. Andrews fide CW). Northern Harriers continued to remain in low numbers and all reports were from western Kentucky with the exception of singles in Boone and Rowan counties. Cooper’s and Sharp-shinned Hawks were fairly widespread, but in low numbers. A dark- 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 29 phase Red-tailed Hawk was seen in Gallatin County, near Warsaw, Decem¬ ber 19 (LMc). The only Rough-legged Hawks reported were the five in Livingston County on February 14 (BPB, M. Bierly et al.) . Two Golden Eagles were reported : one adult five miles north of Bayou, Livingston County on February 20 (BPB), D. Farker) and one on the Bernheim Forest CBC (D. Parker, S. Washburn fide BPB). Coots through Shorebirds — American Coots lingered in unusual num¬ bers throughout December, possibly due to the mild temperatures. There were “several thousand” in the sheltered areas of Lake Barkley (CP) ; 840 at LP on December 19 (JH) and 750-1500 there on December 26 (BPB). A late flock of 90 Sandhill Cranes was present on Barren River Lake on January 2 (RS et al.) . Early migrants were the two over Crescent Hill Water Tower, Louisville, February 17 (HS) and two at BWMA, February 21 (BPB). Several small flocks of shorebirds of 25-30 birds each were present at Jonathan Creek on December 21 and one flock was identified as Least Sandpipers (CP). More Common Snipe lingered through December than during the same period last year (m.ob.). The species appeared to be more numerous in the LBL area with a dozen birds frequently seen. There were no reports for the months of January and February. Spring migrant American Woodcocks returned to Louisville on February 9 (BPB) and at Somerset, February 26 ( JE1) . Gulls — An immature first-winter Laughing Gull was present at Barkley Dam, February 13-20 and provided our fourth winter record (BPB, M. Bierly et al.) . Bonaparte’s Gulls were “abundant” in the bays and inlets upstream from K&B Dams until late December (CP) ; one on Kentucky Lake on February 14 (BPB) and 20 on Lake Barkley at Silo Overlook on February 20 (BPB, D. Parker). After the lakes in LBL filled, huge num¬ bers of gulls gathered and an estimated 8,000 Ring-billed Gull were present in the Kentucky Dam vicinity and fewer but still large numbers at Barkley Dam (CP, M. Miller) ; some 10,000-20,000 at Kentucky Lake in mid-Febru¬ ary (BPB) Smaller groups included 30-100 at Markland Dam (LMc), Bar¬ ren River Lake (RS), Danville area (FL) and Cave Run Lake (FB). Herring Gulls were not numerous this year, probably due to the mild winter, but a few were at most lakes, with a peak of several hundred to 500 birds at K&B Dams (CP, BPB) on February 13. The following Thay¬ er’s Gulls were observed on January 9: one adult at Smithland Dam and one adult and one first-winter bird at Kentucky Lake above the Dam (BPB). The two Iceland Gulls above Barkley Dam, Lyon County, February 13 were well described and substantiated with color slides (BPB, LR, D. Ebel). A first-winter Lesser Black-backed Gull, a rare visitant, was dis¬ covered at Lake Barkey on December 19 (BPB) and an adult at K&B Dams, December 27-28 (BPB et al. and latter sighting by BA); an adult (perhaps a different bird with different bill pattern) was at Smithland Dam, Livingston County on January 9 (BPB). At least one adult Glaucous Gull was at K&B Dams, January 9 and February 13 (BPB) ; one first- winter bird was there February 13, 14, 20 (BPB). Owls through Thrushes — A Snowy Owl was reported north of Sligo, Trimble County, February 10 (T. Robinson fide BM). The only Short-eared Owl reported was the one in Hart County, January 5 (LR, KC). An im¬ mature Selasphorus hummingbird (Rufous/ Allen’s) visited a sugar water feeder in Jeffersontown, Jefferson County in November and remained until February 5, providing a first record for Kentucky of this western stray (m.ob., photo BPB). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker numbers were much im- 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 proved over last winter. During early February flocks of 25-30 Horned Larks were seen in the fields along Chamberlain Lane in eastern Jefferson County (MC), but 250-300 noted at Surrey Hills Farm during the snowy weather February 12-13 (BPB). Red-breasted Nuthatches were scarce except at Bernheim Forest, where they were fairly common. Eastern Blue¬ birds were uncommon in the Berea area as compared to last winter (AR, TR), however, elsewhere across the state they were in much higher num¬ bers than last year (m.ob.). American Robins remained in higher numbers throughout December than they have for the past two years. Spring mi¬ grants began arriving in mid-February in flocks of 25-50 in east Louisville (KC) ; a flock of 350+ fed on holly berries in Oldham County, February 28 (S, FS). A single Brown Thrasher was known to winter at Madison- ville (JH). Pipits through Warblers — Three Water Pipits lingered at Jonathan Creek, Marshall County and were present December 21 (CP). Cedar Wax- wings were widespread and numerous compared to last year, particularly in December. There was a fock of 200+ at Morehead, Rowan County from February 8 to 17 (FB). A flock of 58+ birds was seen in Doe Valley Estates, Meade County on December 26 (HS, S) and some 30 at CKWMA on December 22 (GR). The state CBCs showed the Loggerhead Shrike fairly widespread and with the highest count — 70 — since the census of 1980. Strangely enough, only one report since then was received of a single bird on the Shelby/Spencer County line, January 30 (TL). Surely there were other sightings? An Orange-crowned Warbler wintered in a suburban yard in Jeffersontown from early January-Mareh 10 (JB, PB). Yellow- rumped (Myrtle) Warblers were widely distributed across the state in higher numbers than last year. A Pine Warbler was unexpected at a feeding station at Murray on January 2 and “late” February (WB). Also, a Palm Warbler lingered in suburban southwestern Frankfort, Franklin County and visited a feeding station in late December and early January (L. Andrews fide BPB). Dickcissel through Blackbirds — A Dickcissel, late in departing, was observed at a feeder at Radcliff on January 10-13 (RH). One to five Savannah Sparrows were found at three locations. White-throated Sparrows were quite common at Madisonville with counts of 36-37 during late January and early February (JH), but were in lower numbers than usual in the Louisville area (KC, S). Lapland Longspurs were scarce and only one to two recorded at the following locations: Louisville, BWMA and Livingston County (BPB). On the snowy days of February 12-14 one to two Snow Buntings showed up with Horned Larks in eastern Jefferson County on Surrey Hills Farm and off Chamberlain Lane (BPB). Blackbirds were not numerous this year except where roosts were present. The roost in Bowling Green contained approximately 1,000,000 birds (HS). The roost in Somer¬ set was sprayed in mid-January and it was reported that 422,000 birds were killed of which 1% were Rusty Blackbirds (S. Kickert fide GR). The large roost at Buechel Bank Road (outskirts of Louisville) contained about 2.5-3 million birds, according to Burt L. Monroe, Jr. A count taken on December 22 of only “three flight lines was 1,168,400 birds; about 20 samples of bird species resulted in 45% starlings (525,780 birds), 38% grackles (443,992), 15% cowbirds (175,260) and 2% red-wings (23,368)” (BM). Monroe saw only a few Rusty Blackbirds from which a total of 5,000 birds was estimated. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 31 Finches — Purple Finches were widely distributed — and numbers were above last year. House Finches continued their spread with at least 30 birds at Louisville feeders (KC, S), some 36-40 at Murray (CP) and 100 + at Science Hill, Pulaski County feeders (JE1), numbers were reduced at Berea (AR). There were few Pine Siskins in the Louisville area during the period, but east and west of the city they were present in fair numbers. At Murray the birds were “common to abundant” (CP) ; 30+ at feeders all winter in northwest Hopkins County (B. West ficle JH), 100 at Berea on December 25 and present throughout the period (AR, TR), 35 at a Richmond feeder (GR), and about 75 banded at Cumberland Falls State Park (S. Kickert fide GR), and 75 daily at Morehead (FB). It was a good year throughout the state for the American Goldfinch (m.ob.). Evening Grosbeaks were scarce in some sections of the state, particularly central and western Kentucky. They were recorded in only five locations: one sighting at Murray, Calloway County (CP), a small flock at Ilsley, Hopkins County (JH), peaked at 100 at Cumberland Falls State Park where 16 were banded (S. Kickert fide GR), a pair in mid-January at Whitley City, McCreary County (D. Stephens fide BPB) and 10 at Morehead on Feb¬ ruary 28 (FB). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Jane and Pat Bell (JB, PB). Wally Brines (WB), Marion Chamberlain (MB), Kathryn Clay (KC), Jackie Elmore (JE1), James W. Hancock (JH), Richard Heally (RH), Frank Krull, Jr. (FK), Tim Love (TL), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Art and Tina Ricketts (AR, TR), Gary Ritchison (GR), Thane Robinson (TR), Russell Starr (RS), H. E. Shado- wen (HS), Helga Schutte (HS), Anne Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Wilkins (CW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, Ky. 40241 BALD EAGLE COUNT IN KENTUCKY — 1988 Lynda Andrews, Roger Yancey and James Durell This year’s census recorded a total of 166 Bald Eagles, and no Golden Eagles. January 8 was the target date, within a time frame of January 1-15, 1988. This census was done in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Waterfowl census. The National Wildlife Federation now records only the counts at Ballard County, Lake Barkley and Dale Hollow, rather than the full state census. Weather during tne period was unusually warm and clear. Immature eagles increased from 51 (27%) to 60 (36%), while mature birds were down from 142 to 104. This is the second year of decline, but the warmer winter may have kept more eagles up north. Fewer waterfowl came south and Indiana eagles increased from 42 to 56. Again no eagles were reported from Obion and Mayfield Creek Bottoms, nor in the Barlow Bottoms, near the confluence of the Ohio and Missis¬ sippi Rivers. These were very productive in 1984. Land Between the Lakes lost 33 eagles and the Mississippi 10. The Lower Ohio gained six. This count includes some eagles across the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Table I summarizes the 1988 census, with some earlier high records. 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 TABLE I — Kentucky Bald Eag’e Census, January 2-15, 1988 with earlier high counts. ROUTE Ad. 1987 Imm. Tot. Earlier records High Year Land Between the Lakes .. 21 2 23 67 1987 Mississippi River 20 14 34 72 1984 Ohio River, Wickliffe to north Livingston Co. (Carrsville) 24 27 53 + 89 1986 Ohio River, Carrsville-Owensboro 4 1 5 7 1984 Ohio River, Battletown-Louisville 2 2 5 1986 Ohio R., Louisville-Markland Dam 1 1 1 1987 Green River Lake 4 1 5 12 1986 Dale Hollow, Kentucky portion . 17 10 27 27 1988 Lake Cumberland ... 2 2 14? 1983 Cumberland R., dam to Burkesville 2 2* 8 1986 Cave Run Lake 2 2 4 7 1984 Laurel Lake ... 2 3 5 9 1985 Martin’s Fork ......... 3 — 3 3 1988 Totals 104 60 166 + + Includes 2 eagles, age unknown. Ballard County 49 eagles. * Excludes 1 eagle, possibly duplicated on Lake Cumberand. Twelve parties reported 121 other hawks. Counts for 1987 and 1986 are in parenthesis: American Kestrel 57 (99, 105); Red-tailed Hawk 55 (40, 68); Marsh Hawk 1 (6, 7); Rough-legged Hawk 2 (4, 3); Red¬ shouldered Hawk 3 (1, 3) ; Sharp-shinned Hawk 3 (1, 2) ; Black Vultures 0 (16, 0); Turkey Vultures 0 (1, 0). There were 64 participants in 30 parties. They represented the Ken¬ tucky Ornithological Society, federal and state Fish and Wildlife agencies, TVA, U. S. Forest Service, Audubon Society and Owensboro Area Museum. Space does not permit listing these individuals, but their help is gratefully acknowledged, and solicited next year. — Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Frankfort 40601 — Kentucky Ornithological Society. 1027 Algonquin, Frankfort. THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY SPRING MEETING, APRIL 29 - MAY 1, 1988 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 65th annual Spring Meet¬ ing on April 29 - May 1, 1988, at Otter Creek Park. The Friday evening session was opened with a welcome to members and guests by President Jim Williams. Virginia Kingsolver outlined the following day’s field trips and introduced the evening speakers. Anne Stamm spoke on the history and birdlife of Otter Creek Park. Fred Busroe presented an essay on categories and types of birdwatchers, followed by an update on the status of the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas given by Brainard Palmer-Ball Jr. Members were encouraged to increase their par¬ ticipation during the final two years of the project. Gary Ritchison con¬ cluded the session with a review of his research on post-fledging behavior of Eastern Screech-Owls. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 33 Excellent weather on Saturday morning greeted field trip participants, who explored various areas of the park. The Board of Directors met in the lodge at 4:00 P.M. The Saturday evening program began with a thanks extended to Otter Creek Park for their service during the weekend. Sunday morning field trips were reviewed. Anne Stamm introduced the evening speaker, Dr. Burt Monroe Jr., who discussed many of the new discoveries in ornithology regarding classification of birds. Brainard Palmer-Ball Jr. led in compiling the day’s bird list, which totaled 111 species. Note was made of the Fall Meeting to be held at Ken¬ tucky Dam Village on September 30 - October 2, 1988. Additional species seen on Sunday brought the weekend total to 113. Total registrations for the Spring Meeting were 66. Respectfully submitted, Lee McNeely Recording Secretary ATTENDANCE AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1988 There were 66 members and their guests in attendance at the spring meeting held at Otter Creek Park. Eighteen Kentucky cities and two other states were represented. BOWLING GREEN: Dr. and Mrs. Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, Mr. and Mrs. William Mathes, Dr. and Mrs. Herb Shadowen BUCKHORN: Eileen Sandlin BURLINGTON: Lee and Linda McNeely CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver ELIZABETHTOWN: Doug and Janet Gebler FALLS OF THE ROUGH: Joyce Porter, Dora Lee St. Clair FRANKFORT: Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hankla, Howard Jones HAZARD: Dennis Sandlin HENDERSON : John Humphrey LEXINGTON: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Flynn, Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Uter- hart, Mr. and Mrs. James Williams LOUISVILLE: Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Richard Cassell, Diane Ebel, Arthur Figg, Dr. and Mrs. R. G. Hectorne, Frank Krull, John Krull, Tim Love, Dr. Burt Monroe, Jr., Mark Monroe, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, Mr. and Mrs. Frances Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Stamm MACEO: Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Powell MOREHEAD: Dr. Fred Busroe MURRAY : Dr. Clell Peterson OWENSBORO: Mary Lydia Greenwell, Neal Hayden, W. T. Perkins, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Wilson PRINCETON: Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Rowland RICHMOND: Dr. and Mrs. Gary Ritchison, Tim Towles STANLEY : Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stevenson TITUSVILLE, FLORIDA: Don Shannon BUCHANAN, TENNESSEE: Dr. and Mrs. Hunter Hancock DYERSBURG, TENNESSEE: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Leggett 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1988 Birds observed on Saturday field trips within Otter Creek Park in¬ clude: Common Loon, Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Bobwhite, Killdeer, Lesser Yellow- legs, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Ring-billed Gull, Mourning Dove, Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hum¬ mingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Wood¬ pecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great-crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Purple Martin, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Bank Swallow, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nut¬ hatch, Carolina Wren, House Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Veery, Swainson’s Thrush, Hermit Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Europ;an Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warb¬ ler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Wa 'bler, Northern Parula, Yellow Warb¬ ler, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Palm Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Ovenbird, Louisiana Waterthrush, Kentucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Hooded Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Blue Gros¬ beak, Indigo Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Spar¬ row, Song Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, White- crowned Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Bobolink, Red-winged Blackbird, Com¬ mon Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Orchard Oriole, Northern Oriole, Purple Finch, House Finch, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch and House Sparrow for a total of 111 species. The weekend total reached 113 species with the sightings of a Cape May Wa’bler and a Cliff Swallow on Sunday. FIELD NOTES NORTHERN GANNET ON 1-65: SECOND RECORD FOR KENTUCKY, FIRST RECORD FOR TENNESSEE On 29 November 1987, while driving north with my family on Interstate 65 just north of the Kentucky-Tennessee border, the last thing I expected to see was a pelagic bird. After all, we were nearly 600 miles from the Atlantic Ocean and 450 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. So I was a bit unprepared when I spotted a large, gray brown bird flying south along the median strip of the highway toward us. My first thought was, “That’s odd, a juvenile Herring Gull.” But, as the bird drew nearer, my impression of it quickly changed. It had long, slender, pointed wings, and, as it zipped past my window, I could see its tapered, dagger-like bill. I knew immedi¬ ately it must have been a large seabird, probably a booby or gannet. But with the bird rapidly disappearing in my rear view mirror, I had the sinking feeling that I would never know for sure. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 Luck was with us, however. Just ahead, we encountered one of those highway crossovers with a sign “Emergency Vehicles Only.” This being an obvious emergency, I crossed over. Now we were headed back south in hot pursuit of the bird. Amazingly, it seemed to be following the path of the highway. The day was cold, misty, and overcast, and the road surface was wet. Perhaps the highway resembled a watercourse enough to be attractive to the bird. It certainly looked as much like a body of water as anything else in that rolling Kentucky countryside. Within a few minutes we caught up to the bird, and I slowed down to keep pace with it. It flew down the median along side the car at heights of 20-100 ft. My initial impression that the bird was a booby or gannet was confirmed by its typical sulid flight silhouette: cigar-shaped body, tapered tail, dagger bill, and long, thin, pointed wings with a distinctive crook at the bend. It’s flight was also typical of the Sulidae: sustained shallow flapping to climb into the wind followed by a short downward glides The bird was in juvenile plumage; gray brown above and whitish below, with indistinct, dark streaking on the neck and breast. Its dark legs and feet were visible under the tail. After keeping pace with the bird for several minutes, it became clear that we were holding up traffic on the highway. So I drove on until we were well ahead of the bird, pulled over and jumped out with my 9 x 36 Bausch and Lomb binoculars in hand to view the bird as it passed. Now I could see that the back was speckled with white. This speckling was heavi¬ est on the rump, forming a thin, inconspicuous, white “V” just proximal of the tail. The underwing was dark with large light areas, which seemed to be positioned at the base of the flight feathers and in the axillars. The bird passed quickly, so my wife, Kirsten, and daughters, Jessica and Julia, kept their eyes on it, while I jumped back in the car to chase it down the road. We repeated this cycle of driving ahead, pulling over and watching the bird fly by 3 or 4 times. The last time, we parked near the state line marker and watched the bird fly south into Tennessee. The date and location of this sighting immediately suggest that the bird was a juvenile Northern Gannet (Sula bassanus). There is a significant migration of pelagic birds through the Great Lakes region in late fall, and, while Gannets are quite rare on the Great Lakes, available records are from that time of year. The chance of any other booby or gannet oc¬ curring in Kentucky in late November seems remote, as these are all birds of tropical or southern oceans. While the juvenile plumages of many sulid species are similar, the sparse white speckling on the back, thin white “V” on the rump, and lack of a white nuchal patch or collar are sufficient to separate juvenile Gannets from any other sulid known from North America (Harrison, Seabirds: an Identification Guide, Houghton, Mifflin, Boston, 1983). The only previous record of Northern Gannet in Kentucky or Tennessee was of an immature bird on the Ohio River at Cincinnati, December 7, 1967 (America Birds 22:444, 1968). This bird was later captured in a Cincinnati yard and lived several years in the Cincinnati Zoo. I have had previous field experience with Gannets in the North Atlantic on several occasions. I have also seen the Masked Booby (Sula dactylatra) in the Gulf of Mexico and in the South Pacific, and both the Blue-footed (Sula nebouxii) and Peruvian (Sula variegata) boobies off the coast of Peru. It is natural to wonder how stray birds get to where we encounter them. In this case, it is interesting to note that I 65 begins in Gary, In¬ diana, at the southern tip of Lake Michigan. Given the known migration 36 TNE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 of seabirds through the Great Lakes in fall, it is tempting to speculate that this Gannet made it to Lake Michigan, but found no waterway leading south from there. Perhaps the bird then began to follow the Interstate, since it heads south and may have resembled a watercourse to some ex¬ tent, at least when wet. In any case, from where we saw it, staying on I 65 would have been useful, as this would have led the bird to the Gulf of Mexico at Mobile, Alabama! — MICHAEL J. BRAUN, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221. BALD EAGLE IN MADISON COUNTY On the sunny afternoon of January 31, 1988 a mature Bald Eagle ( Haliaeetus leucocephahis) was sighted along Red Lick Road approximately three miles east of Highway 421 in southern Madison County. The bird was near the top of a large oak tree about 300 meters north of the road. It was at first assumed to be a plastic bag, child’s kite or other debris. It seemed impossible that it could be an eagle, and was ignored. When a companion mentioned that there was a deer carcass near the tree, I im¬ mediately stopped and backed the vehicle off the road to investigate. The glossy white top and bottom were a sharp contrast to the extremely coal black color between. Without binoculars I still was not sure it was some¬ thing alive until I saw the head turn slightly. That excited me enough to climb the fence and proceed through the pasture toward it. Another turn of the head convinced me it was a live eagle, and as I approached to about 150 meters it lifted its wings, dropped from the tree, sailed over the pasture only about 50 meters to my right, and proceeded almost directly over my vehicle where my companion watched. I have seen adult Bald Eagles at LBL, Ballard County Refuge, and Alaska as well as occasional sightings elsewhere. I have never seen one nearly so glossy and with such a black body as this bird. The bird proceeded south across Red Lick Road and into the knobs about one mile away where it was attacked by crows. It continued over the dam of the newly constructed Floyd’s Fork Lake where it left the crows behind and disappeared into the valley. The Bald Eagle seems to be rapidly expanding its haunts in Kentucky and is being reported near more small reservoirs. — DR. PETE THOMPSON, Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky 40475. NEWS AND VIEWS NONGAME AND ENDANGERED SPECIES SYMPOSIUM Proceedings of the Nongame and Endangered Species Symposium held in Athens, Georgia on September 8-10, 1987 are now available for $10.00 (make check payable to: Planning Committee, 3rd Nongame Wildlife Sym¬ posium). Send requests to: Nongame/Endangered Species Program, Geor¬ gia Department of Natural Resources, Route 2, Box 119A, Social Circle, Georgia 30279. The Kentucky Warbler i > (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 64 AUGUST, 1988 NO. 3 IN THIS ISSUE BIRD USE OF EASTERN KENTUCKY SURFACE MINES, Debra B. Claus, Wayne H. Davis, and William McComb 39 THE SPRING SEASON OF 1988, Anne L. Stamm 43 FIELD NOTES . 50 NEWS AND VIEWS 51 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Jim Williams, Lexington Vice-President Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Corr. Sec.-Treasurer John Krull 1108 Whetstone Way, Louisville, KY 40223 Recording Secretary Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors: Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle 1986-1988 Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro 1986-1988 Clell Peterson, Murray . 1988-1990 Donnie Spencer, Hazard 1988-1990 Retiring President Fred Busroe, Morehead Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank our staff artist, Ray Harm, for the excellent reproduction of the Northern Cardinal. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 BIRD USE OF EASTERN KENTUCKY SURFACE MINES Debra B. Claus, Wayne H. Davis and William C. McComb Allaire (1979, 1980) and Allaire et al. (1982) listed 115 species of birds using surface mines in eastern Kentucky. Several species were previ¬ ously unknown from the Cumberland Plateau. During the spring and summer of 1987 we studied the birds on two of the mines where Allaire had conducted his research: Two Mile and Press Howard mines operated by the Falcon Coal Company, near Quicksand, Breathitt County. We added 17 species to the list of birds that utilize mined areas, noted changes that have occurred in abundance of several species since Allaire’s studies, and gathered data pertaining to the questions that Allaire (1980) posed as requiring further research. We made systematic observations at regular weekly intervals from February 26 through August 17. Each trip involved driving 32 km over haul roads and walking 5 km to conduct an experiment with bluebird (Sialia sialis) nest boxes. We spent four to six hours, from mid-morning to late afternoon, on the mines. On each trip, we recorded all birds seen or heard while on the mines. We did not count birds heard in the forest at the edge of the mines, but did record those in the dead trees that were killed by mining operations. The type of mining procedure utilized was mountain-top removal. After reclamation, the land consisted of an extensive high plateau that ranged from flat, rocky land to rolling hills. Reclamation seeding was pre¬ dominantly wheat ( triticum aestivum) , oats ( Avena sativa), foxtail millet (Setaria italica), sorghum (Sorghum spp.) birdfoot trefoil (Lotus comi- culatus), alfalfa (Medicaqo sativa), clovers (Trifolium spp. and Melilotus spp.) , vetches (Coronilla and Vida spp.) Korean lespedeza ( Lespedeza stipulacea), fescue (Festuca arundinacea) , with other less common herba¬ ceous plants. Seeding has also established scattered stands of black locust (Robinia pseudoacada). Russian olive (Elaeagnus an g us ti folia) was the dominant shrub, but there were numerous plantings of many other kinds of trees and shrubs. Density of vegetation ranged from almost impenetrable (in some places in late summer), to sparse with scattered bare ground. Age ranged from extensive areas of bare soil, where mining was active, to areas that had been untouched for more than a decade. Wafer sources included: impoundments that provided ponds roughly every 0.5 km, perma¬ nent marshlands, seasonal shallow water, and mudflats. The area provided habitat for a remarkably diverse avifauna. Such an area of prairie-like plant forms that was not harvested, plowed, grazed, or mowed is unusual in North America and new and unique in Kentucky. It provided an inter¬ esting opportunity for continuing studies of birdlife. The following accounts are of the species for which we can provide information that adds to the knowledge provided by Allaire. Species that we saw but that were not observed on mined land by Allaire are marked with an asterisk; a double asterisk indicates species that Allaire listed as migrants on mountain-top removal mines but which we observed as summer residents. 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps). We saw one in an im¬ poundment on August 7 and August 17. This was not a likely breeding site. Allaire (1980) listed this species as a migrant and winter resident. ^American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus). One was flushed from the marshy edge of an impoundment on April 16. *Great Egret (Casmerodius albus). One was flushed from a mudflat on April 23. Northern Harrier ( Circus cyaneus). This is the only hawk that we would consider fairly common; during March and April our counts ranged from three to nine. The voles Microtus pennsylvanicus and M. ochrogaster which did not occur in southeastern Kentucky (Barbour and Davis, 1973) have recently invaded the region and become common on the mines, pro¬ viding a good source of food for predators. The harrier is a migrant but is a good candidate for future breeding on the mines. **Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipter striatus). Allaire (1980) listed this species as an uncommon migrant. He saw one hawk capture a small bird on July 31, and we saw two on the mines on August 17. Merlin (Falco columbarius) . One seen on April 16 was apparently the second record of this species on mined land. Allaire (1980) saw one capture a horned lark (Eremophila alpestris) ; ours appeared to be at¬ tracted to a flock of Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater). Like the harrier, this is a bird of the open country and finds suitable habitat on the mines. Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) . This bird has probably in¬ creased on the mines since Allaire’s studies when it was listed as un¬ common. Pairs were often flushed and the loud calls were heard at many of our stations. Our highest count was eleven on June 4. Our first record of bobwhites was on April 30; the numbers increased thereafter suggesting that they may have spent the winter at a lower elevation, or along the mine edges where we did not travel. Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca). February 26 was the first sighting; one appeared at a shallow pond. One was seen on June 4 in temporary standing water where reclamation was in progress. The latter record is later than any listed by Mengel (1965). * Bonaparte’s Gull (Larus Philadelphia). One was observed feeding in a small pool on April 2. *Rock Dove (Columba livia). We saw one straggler on a power line on June 4. *Black-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus) . One was heard June 18 in a locust grove. *Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus). One was heard in a stand of locust trees. Apparently the growth of the small trees and shrubbery has provided suitable habitat that was not there during Allaire’s studies. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 41 * Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus coluhus). We observed one on May 4. :::Red-bellied Woodpecker ( Melanerpes carolinus) . We heard one June 11 in a dead tree at the edge of the mine. *Downy Woodpecker ( Dendrocopus pubescens) . We saw a pair foraging in a locust grove on February 26, probably on twig borers. **Eastern Kingbird ( Tyrannus tyrannus) . Allaire (1980) listed this species only as an uncommon migrant. We had three resident pairs. *Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata). Blue jays were seen occasionally in the black locust groves or flying across the mines. *Tu£ted Titmouse (Parus bicolor). Titmice were occasionally seen and heard in the black locust trees. * Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea). One was observed on June 11 flying across the road from one patch of black locust to another. ** Brown Thrasher (Toxostorna rufum). Allaire listed this species only as a rare migrant; there are now several resident pairs. Apparently the growth of brushy areas has provided suitable habitat. *Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) . We have two records of this species from the locust groves (May 20 and June 4). Obviously these trees have grown to provide some marginal habitat for this woodland species since Allaire’s studies. **Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens). Allaire listed this species as a rare migrant. It is now well-established as a common summer resident. From May 7 on, we would see or hear at least two chats. Our highest count was on June 18 with six birds. * Summer Tanager ( Piranga rubra). We observed an adult female feeding in a row of Elaeagnus augustifolia shrubs on June 18. * Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olvacea). An adult female and two juve¬ niles were seen in a locust thicket on July 23. * ♦Northern Cardinal ( Cardinalis cardinally). Allaire listed the cardi¬ nal only as rare during migration. We recorded only three singing males. This is surprising as there seems to be plenty of good habitat for this species. **Blue Grosbeak (Guiraca caerulea). There were two pairs resident from May through August 17, one in a dense planting of a woody shrub Lespedeza spp, and the other in two groves of locust with understory of this shrub. Monroe (1969) listed this species as rare from April into July in Kentucky. Allaire listed it as a rare migrant. *Dickcissel (Spiza americana). This is an established summer resident, occurring in several little colonies at widely scattered places on the mines. Our largest count was eight singing males (June 18). Allaire (1980, 1981) speculated that Dickcissels would colonize the suitable habitats that were being created on the mines. 42 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis) . This is another spe¬ cies which Allaire (1980) discussed as a likely candidate for future breeding on the mines. We found it only as a migrant between April 16 and May 7. Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) . Bobolinks are apparently more com¬ mon now than when Allaire listed them as an uncommon migrant. They were first observed on April 16 and last on May 20. They were most com¬ mon on April 30, May 7, and May 14 when they were spotted in flocks of up to 59 birds and also as scattered individuals and small groups. This is one of the birds that Allaire suggested be monitored for possible future nesting on the mines. Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater). Cowbirds appeared in flocks of as many as 100 or more through March and April. In May some pairing was noted but most were seen in small flocks of four to six. On June 4, there were again flocks of more than 100. On July 31 we saw a flock of more than 600 perched on wires. Perhaps many of these overly-abundant parasites pass the summer as non-paired non-breeding birds. European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) . Allaire listed this species as uncommon at all seasons and expressed surprise at its status. He wrote that it is just a matter of time before an invasion occurs. When we began work on the mines in 1982, starlings were uncommon. Several broods were raised in our experimental boxes and their numbers have increased each year. In 1987, a pair nested in mining machinery and five pairs raised broods in our boxes. In July, flocks of 100 or more starlings, the majority of which were juveniles, appeared in the fields and on the wires. Most of these birds apparently were raised away from the mines. *House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus). We observed individuals and small flocks occasionally in locust groves from April through July. It is of interest to note some of the birds we did not find. Allaire (1980) found no resident American Robins (Turdus migratorious) , although he saw them during migration. We saw no robins. Apparently the rocky surface and almost no soil makes for unsatisfactory forage for this species. Allaire listed the House Sparrow (Passer doniesticus) as a species likely to be encountered. Although there are buildings, people, grain fields, and nest boxes there are no House Sparrows on the mines. The Prairie Warbler ( Dendroica discolor) was listed by Allaire only as a rare migrant. We did not find this species. This is remarkable for there is now much excellent habitat and the Prairie Warbler is abundant in suitable habitat throughout eastern Kentucky. Mengel (1965) wrote that its song can be heard in the heat of the day from virtually every scrubby hillside and ridge top of the Cumberland Plateau. We thank the Falcon Coal Company, Jackson, Kentucky, for per¬ mission for our continuing studies on their lands and the North American Bluebird Society for financial aid. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 Literature Cited Allaire, P.N. 1979. The avifauna of reclaiming surface mined lands: its composition and role in land use planning. Ph.D. Dissertation Univ. of Louisville. 223 pp. _ . 1980. Bird species on mined lands. Institute for Mining and Minerals Re¬ search, Univ. of Kentucky, Lexington. 64 pp. _ . 1981. Summer observations of birds on reclaimed surface coal mines in Breathitt, Bell, Pike, and Harlan counties. Kentucky Warbler 57:51-54. _ . W.C. McComb, W. H. Davis and R. Brown, 1982. Short-eared owls use re¬ claimed surface mines. Kentucky Warbler 58:58-59. Barbour, R.W. and W.H. Davis. 1973. Mammals of Kentucky. Univ. Press of Ken¬ tucky, Lexington. 322 pp. Mengel, R.M. 1965. The Birds of Kentucky. American Arnithologists Union. 581 pp. Monroe, B.L., Jr. 1969. Summary of occurrence of birds of Kentucky. Kentucky Warbler 45:47-56. School of Biological Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40506 and Department of Forest Science. Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331 (McComb). THE SPRING SEASON OF 1988 Anne L. Stamm Reports of hireling observations were submitted from western Kentucky all across the state to Cave Run Lake and Big Black Mountain, but little from south-central Kentucky. In general the contributors were of the same opinion that the season was extremely dry and warm. The average tem¬ perature for each month, March, April and May was above normal. Rain¬ fall for the three months in the Louisville area was about four inches below normal. Also, western sections of the state, Frankfort and Lexington all had little precipitation. Many of the creeks, ponds and rivers were at levels far below normal. As usual, there was some disagreement between observers in evaluating the migration. One observer wrote that “migration was rather good com¬ pared to recent years” while another thought it was a “dismal migration.” The majority of contributors, however, agreed that while species were observed, numbers were quite low. Nevertheless, the material indicates that some species arrived early and a few lingered beyond normal departure dates. The Purple Gallinule and Eared Grebe were probably the most interesting rarities sighted. The nesting material reported in the spring reports will be incorporated into the summary of the summer period. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; KOS = Kentucky Ornitho¬ logical Society; LP = Lake Pewee; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Man¬ agement Area; CKWMA = Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area; S.H. Farm = Surrey Hills Farm; WKMA = Western Kentucky Wildlife Management Area. 44 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Loons through Bitterns — Two Common Loons returned to Lake Pewee on March 7 and remained until May 14 (JH) ; singles at Cave Run on April 11 (FB) and Kentucky Lake above the Dam on May 4-5 (BPB, D. Parker, J. T. Erwin), May 23 and 26 (DS, S, FS) and May 28-29 (BPB et al.). Pied-billed Grebes were not numerous. The highest count — 15 — was at Louisville on March 20 (LR). An interesting find was the immature Red-necked Grebe at SWMA, Henderson County on March 26 (LR, KC). Another noteworthy record was the Eared Grebe on the Crescent Hill Reservoir, Louisville on May 24 (HS). Five Double-crested Cormorants were first noticed at the Falls of the Ohio on March 17, but 16 were there on April 25 (LR), also up to 16 until mid-May (BPB) ; a total of 16 on the islands near Hamlin on May 7 (JTE, M. Miller) ; and a flock of 14 over CKWMA on April 15 (GR). A single American Bittern was found near Petersburg, Boone County on May 7 (LMc) and at SWMA, Henderson County on May 6 (BPB, D. Parker). A Least Bittern was recorded at the Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County on May 19, but three were there on May 31 (FB). Herons — Great Blue Herons were recorded at Bondurant, Fulton County with “many” observed on April 28 (CP) ; three to four at Kentucky Lake, Columbus-Belmont State Park and Swan Lake, Ballard County on May 25-26 (S, DS, FS) ; one at Owsley Fork Lake on March 24 (AR, TR), but a high of 45 at Mayfair Basins, Louisville on March 12 (JK, FK) and 13 there on March 25 (LR). Great Egrets were reported from the fol¬ lowing locations: “many” at Bondurant, April 28 (CP) ; small numbers elsewhere in Fulton and Ballard counties during April and May (BPB) ; three at Swan Lake on May 25 (S, DS, FS) ; singles at East Bend, Boone County (LMc), McAlpine Dam on May 6 (LR) and Clark Fish Hatchery May 6 and 11 (FB). Three Snowy Egrets were observed at BWMA on May 4-5, but 15 on Mitchell Lake on BWMA on May 29 (BPB, D. Parker) ; and a single bird on May 25 at Swan Lake (S, DS, FS). An adult Little Blue Heron was unexpected on the lake of the Daviess County Fish and Game Farm on April 19 (AP, MP); five on Swan Lake, Ballard County on May 25 (S, DS, FS) ; and approximately 25 birds (mostly adults) on BWMA May 29 (BPB). Cattle Egrets were reported from only western Kentucky with up to 20 flying across US 45 north of Mayfield, Graves County on May 10 (CP) ; about 30 in a field near Oscar, Ballard County and flocks over Swan Lake (no date given — BPB) and only two at Swan Lake on May 25 (S, DS, FS). Green-backed Herons arrived later than usual and numbers were few except at the Clark Fish Hatchery where an average of 45 birds were seen on each trip there from May 1 to May 31 (FB). Black-crowned Night-Herons were first reported on March 24 from Shippingport Island with 27 birds, but numbers built up to 152 on May 20 (LR) ; a few at other spots in the Louisville area (BPB) ; one below Kentucky Lake Dam on May 23 (S, DS) ; one at East Bend on May 30 (LMc) ; and one to two at Clark Fish Hatchery April 15 to May 31 (FB) were the only birds mentioned. A Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was found on the lake in Daviess County Fish and Game Farm on April 26 (AP) ; four birds observed at Shepherdsville (KC, LR) and a pair on Obion Creek, Hickman County (BPB). Waterfowl — Some observers felt that the migration of waterfowl was rather “dull” and numbers were low since many of the ducks and 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 45 geese had already passed through Kentucky in late February and early March. Three Snow Geese were still present at Danville on March 5 (FL). Two Canada Geese stopped at the small lake at my neighbors yard on April 14 and were gone the following day (S). Migratory flocks of Mallards were seen on Chaney Lake, Warren County on March 5 where 500 were noted (BPB). Forty-five Blue-winged Teal were seen at Lake #9 on March 26 and 75 at SWMA on April 24 (BPB). Only small numbers (3-12) were found at Jonathan Creek (CP), Lake Pewee (JH) and Mayfair Basins (LR, FK, Jr.). A concentration of 150 Northern Shovelers at SWMA March 26 was exceptional (LR, KC), while 40 Gadwall and 75 American Widgeon were observed at Lake #9 on the same date (BPB). The 20 Canvasbacks at LP on March 2 were the only ones reported (JH). High counts of Ring-necked Ducks included 49 at Clark Fish Hatchery March 12 and 16 (FB) and 284 at LP on March 2 (JH). A Greater Scaup was still at Towhead Island on April 10 (BPB) and two lingered through April 26 at LP (JH). Fifty Lesser Scaups showed up on the lake at the Daviess County Fish and Game Farm March 25 (AP, MP). Five Surf Scoters (4 female, one male in breeding plumage) were dis¬ covered on Kentucky Lake above the Dam on May 4 and provided Ken¬ tucky with its second spring record (BPB, D. Parker). A few Common Goldeneyes were reported: six at LP on March 2 (JH), two in Marshall County on April 14 (CP), a female at Lake Barkley above the Dam on May 5 which tied our late record (BPB), but a male above Kentucky Dam on May 26 was unusually late and established a late state record (bird photographed, S, FS, DS). Buffleheads peaked with 52 at Clark Fish Hatchery, March 16 (FB). The four Hooded Mergansers at Camp Ernst, Boone County on April 10 (LMc), two pairs at Owsley Fork Lake on March 24 (AR, TR) and two at SWMA on April 24 (BPB) were the only ones reported. Red-breasted Mergansers included three in a flooded ditch in Hays Kennedy Park, Louisville on March 25, five there April 1 (LR), a few at the Falls of the Ohio in April and early May (BPB), 26 at Clark Fish Hatchery on April 20 (FB) : and one on a small body of water near Mt. Vernon, Rockcastle County on May 28 (DN). Four Ruddy Ducks were still present at LP on April 13 (JH) and two at Lake Barkley on May 5 (BPB, D. Parker). Hawks — No hawk flights were observed. The only noteworthy move¬ ment was the 125 Turkey Vultures at Clark Fish Hatchery on March 4; and an average of 30 birds per each trip there through May (FB). Single Ospreys appeared as early as March 30 at Louisville and Clark Fish Hatchery (LR, FB, respectively) ; other singles showed up during April and May at Carpenter Lake, Daviess County (AP), Spring Fork Lake, Grayson County (JP), Owsley Fork Lake (AR, TR), Burlington and Camp Ernst in Boone County (LMc), Columbus-Belmont State Park (DS, S) and two in Livingston (BPB, D. Parker) and Rowan counties (FB). As usual, Mississippi Kites were found in western Kentucky with the earliest at Columbus-Belmont State Park on May 10 (CP), four at Hickman in Fulton County on May 24 (DS, FS) and a “few birds” in Ballard, Carlisle and Hickman counties on May 29 (BPB, D. Parker). The first record for a Mississippi Kite in Grayson County was established on May 15 and 17 (MM, BM). An adult and an immature Bald Eagle were still present at Clark Fish Hatchery on March 16 (FB). Single Sharp-shinned Hawks were reported at Petersburg on March 9 (LMc), 46 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Barren County, March 31 (MS) and at Madisonville on April 29 (JH). A few Broad-winged Hawks were present at CKWMA (TT), Upton (LR), Boone Cliffs and Big Bone Lick State Park in Boone County (LMc), Sadieville, Scott County (LMc) and Owsley Fork Lake (AR, TR). Grouse through Cranes — An adult Ruffed Grouse with two young was seen in Bell County on May 29 (LR) and another with young in Harlan County on May 29 (DN). A Wild Turkey was seen in Mammoth Cave National Park and others were heard calling on May 21 (MS). One to four Virginia Rails were present at SWMA during late April and early May (BPB et at.) and a good movement of Soras occurred there on May 6 with 30 birds present (BPB, D. Parker) ; two to four at Clark Fish Hatchery during May 6-26 (FB) ; and one in Hart County on May 7 (MS, S. Kistler, C. Middleton). A Purple Gallinule on Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County on May 14 was noteworthy (W. Schoettler, KC, H. Clay, m. ob.). Two Common Moorhens appeared at SWMA on April 24 (BPB, D. Ebel). There was a good movement of American Coots at LP on Mai'ch 30 with 462 birds (JH). One lingered near the marina at Kentucky Lake on May 23 (S, DS, FS). The Sandhill Crane migration took place during the first week of March with 30 flying over Industrial Park on March 2 (FK, Sr.), heard over Shelbyville Road on March 7 (FK, Jr.) and 10 over Butler High School on March 9 (JM), all in Louisville; three flocks totaling 100 birds east of Shepherdsville, Bullitt County on March 3 (S. LeCompte fide BPB) ; 25 at Chaney Lake and 50 at McElroy Lake, Bowling Green (BPB). Shorebirds — The shorebird migration was drawn out over a long period and the greatest movement occurred in late March. A single Lesser Yellowleg was at Chaney Lake, Warren County on March 5 (BPB) as were Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs and two Pectoral Sandpipers in the Danville area (FL with W. Kemper). Approximately 350 Lesser Golden Plovers were observed in scattered flocks in Fulton County on March 26-27 (BPB). Three Semipalmated Plovers were present in western Henderson County on April 24, but 25 were there on May 6, also eight to 12 at BWMA and western Fulton County May 4-5 (BPB); and five to nine at Clark Fish Hatchery May 6 to 27 (FB). High counts of Greater Yellowlegs included 35 at SWMA on March 26 (LR) ; about 50 at Bondurant on April 28 (CP); and 35 in western Fulton County on May 5 (BPB, D. Parker). About 200 Lesser Yellowlegs were seen in scattered flocks in western Fulton County on March 26 (BPB); 30 at Bondurant on April 28 (CP) and 26 at Clark Fish Hatchery on May 19 (FB). Solitary Sandpipers ar¬ rived later than usual and in small numbers with the earliest at East Bend on April 2 (LMc). A single Willet was seen at the Falls of the Ohio on May 12 (BPB) and another, possibly the same bird, on May 20 (D. Parker). Spotted Sandpipers were still present on May 30 at East Bend (LMc) and at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB). Only two Upland Sandpipers were reported: one in Hickman County on April 26 (BPB, R. Cicerello) and one in the Danville area (W. Kemper fide FL). A single Ruddy Turnstone, rare in spring, was found on the Falls of the Ohio on May 20 (D. Parker) and observed there May 25-26, two birds there on May 24 (BPB). Few Semipalmated Sandpipers were reported, but three were at SWMA on April 24 (BPB); present during May at Clark Fish Hatchery with a high of 24 on May 26 (FB); and the 60 peeps at the Falls of the Ohio 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 47 were “probably mostly semi’s.” (BPB). Three White-rumped Sandpipers were recorded at Lake #9 on May 28 and three to five birds on Mississippi River sandbars in Carlisle County on May 29 (BPB, D. Parker). Over 400 Pectoral Sandpipers were counted in scattered flocks in western Fulton County on March 26 and 200 in scattered groups in western Henderson County on April 24 (BPB); smaller numbers (1 to 11) observed at Clark Fish Hatchery March 23-May 30 (FB). Two Dunlin in Henderson County on April 24 (BPB, D. Ebel) and one on Mitchell Lake on May 5 were the only ones reported (BPB, JTE, D. Parker). A Stilt Sandpiper along SR 94 at Mud Creek in western Fulton County was fairly early and was closely studied with yellowlegs on March 26 (BPB). A Short-billed Dowitcher was identified by its call notes on April 5 at SWMA, one to four in Ballard and Fulton counties on May 4-5 (BPB) ; and 12 on May 19 at Clark Fish Hatchery (FB). A good flight of 18 Common Snipe was observed at Hays Kennedy Park on March 25 (LR). An American Woodcock with two young was at CKWMA on April 10 (GR). Gulls — An adult Laughing Gull appeared at the Falls of the Ohio on May 8 (BPB, A. Mullen) and another at Smithland Dam on May 27 (BPB, D. Parker). An adult Franklin’s Gull was discovered at the Falls of the Ohio on the morning of April 20 (LR), also observed that evening and three were there on April 22, two on April 23 (BPB) ; and a sub-adult at Smithland Dam on May 28 (BPB, D. Parker). Eight Bonaparte’s Gulls were seen on the Falls of the Ohio on March 29 (LR) ; three on April 20 and eight on May 6 at Clark Fish Hatchery (FB) and an adult in summer plumage on Kentucky Lake May 4 (BPB, D. Parker). Ring-billed Gulls were still present at various locations in May with about 200 or more at Kentucky and Barkley Dams on May 4 (BPB) ; about 20 adults and im- matures at Kentucky Dam on May 26 (S, DS, FS); 250 at the Falls of the Ohio on April 22, but only 50 there on May 17 and up to 15 in late May until the gates were closed (BPB). Danville reported a good number this spring with 136 on March 5 (FL) ; and 100 at Clark Fish Hatchery on May 6, one on May 19 (FB). Approximately 10 Herring Gulls were still present at Kentucky Lake on May 4-5 (BPB) and one below the Dam on May 26 (S, DS) ; 16 adults arrived at the Falls of the Ohio on May 25 and remained at least two days (BPB); and one in the Danville area on March 5, where previous records are few (FL). Terns — Five Caspian Terns returned to the Falls of the Ohio on April 14, nine on April 19 (LR), peaked at 17 birds on April 22 (BPB) ; two at Dam #53 on the Ohio River, Ballard County on May 4-5 (BPB) ; and nine near Hamlin (JTE). Three Caspian Terns were seen as far east as Clark Fish Hatchery on April 20 (FB). A Forster’s Tern arrived near Hamlin, Calloway County on the early date of April 4 and provided Kentucky with an early date (JTE). Two Forster’s reached the Falls of the Ohio by April 14 (LR) and 10-12 there on April 22 (BPB); numbers increased to 15 to 20 birds at Kentucky Lake and Dam #53 on May 4-5 and three present at Smithland on May 6 (BPB). Reports on the Least Tern included four birds at Smithland Dam, six at Lake #9 on May 28 and two to 12 at scattered points along the Mississippi River in Hickman and Carlisle counties on May 29 (BPB). Black Terns were reported from three locations: Falls of the Ohio, Dam #53 and Kentucky Lake above the Dam (BPB). 48 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Cuckoos through Whip-poor-wills — Both cuckoos were generally late and scarce. A Black-billed Cuckoo was noted on three days during the first week of May on S. H. Farm, Louisville (BPB). The Yellow-billed Cuckoo was first observed in Madison County on May 2 (TT) and at Madisonville, Hopkins County on May 3 (JH). A Common Barn-Owl was seen flying over Richmond on March 31 (GR). Great Horned Owls were reported at Creason Park and in Daviess County (BS, AP). Common Nighthawks were scarce and arrived later than normal (TT, DS, S) ; none were at the usual Danville sites (FL). Two Chuck-will’s-widows were reported at Big Pond Sanctuary, April 4 (KC) and in northwest Hopkins County on April 14 (B. West fide JH). Whip-poor-wills arrived at CKWMA on April 4 (GR) ; in Hopkins County April 7 (B. West fide JH); and in Madison County on April 27 (TT). Flycatchers through Wrens — Two Yellow-bellied Flycatchers were seen and heard at S. H. Farm on May 20 and one to two Alder Flycatchers were there on May 17 and 20 (BPB); another of the latter species was heard and seen in Calloway County on May 24 (S. DS, FS). A Willow Flycatcher in Madison County on May 2 tied our early date (TT) ; one in Petersburg May 19 (LMc) ; five at Clark Fish Hatchery on May 30 (FB) and a colony in Whitley County on May 29 (BM). Six Least Fly¬ catchers were present on Big Black Mountain May 29 (LR, DN). A flock of 40 Horned Larks was observed on Covered Bridge Road, Oldham County, March 5 (FK, Jr.). Purple Martins were late in arriving and generally scarce. Two good movements of Tree Swallows were noted at Clark Fish Hatchery with approximately 400 present on March 30 and 300 on May 6 (FB) ; a late straggler was at the Marina at Kentucky Lake on May 26 (S, DS). Northern Rough-winged Swallows arrived later than normal with the earliest at Brandenburg, Meade County on April 5 (KC) and at CKWMA on April 10 (GR). The Northern Rough-winged Swallow migra¬ tion at Clark Fish Hatchery peaked May 6 with 300 (FB) and Bank Swallows peaked there with 75 on May 6 (FB). There were few Bank Swallows, perhaps 20 + , at Carroll County gravel pits on May 31 (S, FS). About 20 pairs of Cliff Swallows were at the North Fork of Rough River on May 21 (KC) ; at least 125 at Lake Barkley on May 23 (S, DS, FS) and 60 present at the Dam at Cave Run Lake May 19 (FB, L. Korman). Three Fish Crows were heard in the vicinity of Bondurant and two to three near Sassafras Ridge, Fulton County on April 5 (CP) ; several along Obion Creek, Hickman County, the last week of April, singles in Ballard and Carlisle counties on May 4-5 (BPB) ; seven to eight in flight, with some calling, along the bluff of Columbus-Belmont State Park on May 10 and calls coming from other directions too (CP). The finding of a Bewick’s Wren singing near Jefferson County Forest on May 7 was noteworthy (DN). House Wrens arrived at CKWMA on April 13 (GR) ; although none were found on the breeding surveys in Casey and Pulaski counties, they appeared to have increased around farm houses in Boyle County (FL). A Marsh Wren was present at SWMA on April 24, two there on May 6 (BPB, D. Parker) ; and one in Hart County on May 7 (MS, S. Kistler, C. Middleton). Kinglets through Vireos — A Ruby-crowned Kinglet near Union, Boone County on May 18 was a fairly late straggler (LMc). Eastern Blue¬ birds were quite common in Casey and Pulaski counties (FL) and “plenti- 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 49 ful” in Grayson County (KC). There was some evidence of Cedar Wax¬ wing migration on March 26 when a flock of 20 arrived in the writer’s yard and remained for the night. Late migrants were seen on May 24 when a flock of 17 was seen at Kenlake State Park (S, DS, FS). Single Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from Barren (MS), Grayson (KC) and Hickman (DS, FS) counties. A record of a Loggerhead Shrike in Edmonson County came too late to be included in the last issue (MS). A White-eyed Vireo near Hamlin on April 4 was fairly early (JTE). There were only two reports of the Bell’s Vireo. One was heard in rural Meade County on May 27 and was still there a week later in June; and one to two males heard on the WKMA on May 29 (BPB, D. Parker). A Philadelphia Vireo in a Danville yard on May 15 was the only one reported (FL). Warblers — There was some difference of opinion on the warbler migration. One observer reported that “the movement was very light and sporatic” and another mentioned “no major warbler flights”, but in general most observers felt that while most species were seen, numbers were low. Apparently there was a good movement of Northern Parula Warblers on April 7 in northwest Hopkins County where Bonnie West found about 20 near her home ( fide JH). The Pine Warbler was heard singing at five locations in Calloway County on March 4 (JTE) and one in Daviess County Fish and Game Farm on March 15 (MP, AP). A Palm Warbler in Daviess County on March 19 was fairly early (MP). A Prothonotary Warbler arrived near Hamlin on April 4 (JTE). A Kentucky Warbler was seen in Madison County on the early date of April 3 (TT). Single Connecticut Warblers were reported at Joe Creason Park/Beargrass Nature Preserve on May 15 (BBC) and on S. H. Farm on May 17 (BPB). A Mourning Warbler was found at S. H. Farm on May 17 (BPB). Grosbeaks through Finches — Three Rose-breasted Grosbeaks made their appearance at Big Pond Sanctuary on March 29 (KC). Blue Gros¬ beaks were reported at two locations in Hopkins County May 2 and 6 (JH), CKWMA on May 3 (GR) and in Whitley County on May 29 (BM). There were only small numbers of Dickcissels reported from Grayson (KC), Fulton (S) and Oldham (LR, S) counties, but good numbers in Boyle County (FL). A few Vesper Sparrows were observed near Maceo, Daviess County in late March where they are seldom seen (AP, MP). Grasshopper Spar¬ rows returned to CKWMA on April 13 (GR) and were observed in Callo¬ way (JTE) and Hart counties on May 7 (MS et al.) . Henslow’s Sparrows were reported from Breckenridge, Grayson and Madison counties (BPB, KC, GR, respectively). The rare LeConte’s Sparrow was flushed from dense grass in Henderson County on April 5 (BPB, D. Parker). Six Fox Sparrows were present in the Herbert Clay’s yard, Grayson County on March 13 where most sightings are of one to two birds (KC). A White- throated Sparrow was still singing at Joe Creason Park on May 23 (JK). The Harris’ Sparrow at Lexington on March 22 was an unexpected visitor (BA). A Bobolink was reported in Menifee County on May 7 (BM) ; several flocks of 50-100 were found in Ballard County on May 4-5 (BPB, JTE, D. Parker). A Western Meadowlark was closely studied and heard singing 50 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 on March 26-27 in farmland of western Fulton County near Lake #9 (BPB). Another interesting record was that of a Yellow-headed Blackbird at Upton, April 27 (LR). An Orchard Oriole arrived early at Hamlin on March 28 and provided a new early record (JTE). The bird was seen for about one week. The Northern Oriole arrived on schedule at CKWMA on April 13 (GR) and was common in Meade County on April 28-30 (KOS). Approximately 75 Pine Siskins remained at a Morehead feeder from March 1 through 30. Numbers began to taper off in April, but 25 were still present on April 23 (FB). There seemed to be a good movement at Fern Creek, Jefferson County and at Versailles, Woodford County on April 18-20 ( fide S) ; last sighting reported at Berea on May 6 (AR). Ten to 15 Evening Grosbeaks lingered at Morehead through March, numbers de¬ creased in April, but two remained through April 23 (FB) ; no others reported, except for one bird over Bernheim Forest on April 9 (BPB). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Fred Busroe (FB), Kathryn Clay (KC), Joe Tom Erwin (JTE), James W. Hancock (JH), Frank Krull, Sr. (FK, Sr.), Frank Krull (FK, Jr.), John Krull (JK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MM), J. Muntan (JM), Doxie Noonan (DN), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Joyce Potter (JP), A. Powell (AP), Mildred Powell (MP), Lene Rauth (LR), Art Ricketts (AR), Tina Ricketts (TR), Gary Ritchison (GR), Helga Schutte (HS), Bernice Shannon (BS), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Donald Summerfield (DS), Tim Towles (TT). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. FIELD NOTES SHORT-EARED OWLS (Asio flarnmeus) On February 7, 1988, near a waterfowl refuge in extreme southern Ohio County on a reclaimed strip mine area consisting of rolling prairie¬ like habitat, we observed Short-eared Owls in flight. We observed the first of 14 owls that flew by approximately 20 minutes before sunset. Wre re¬ turned the next evening and counted 15. We could hear the owls cry as they hunted quite close to us. On February 13, accompanied by Jan and Jim Howard, we again observed 15 owls. On February 14 we were ac¬ companied by Joyce Porter and Dora Lee St. Clair. While we were walking across the area three owls came up from the ground as a group and four more flushed from the ground a short distance further. On March 5, Jan Howard and other members of the Owensboro K.O.S. observed five owls. No owls were observed on return trips March 12 and 13. A number of Marsh Hawks were observed on each visit in the same habitat and Rough-legged Hawks were also observed in the area. Two years ago one Short-eared Owl had been observed approximately four miles further north in similar habitat but was not investigated further at that time. —BRENDA AND TONY EADEN, 12784 U.S. 231, Utica, Kentucky 42376. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 51 ANOTHER PURPLE GALLINULE On May 14, 1988, William Schoettler, who was visiting us at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County, saw a strange looking bird walking around our pond. He called our attention to the bird and we readily identified it as a Purple Gallinule (Porphyrula martinica). The bright purplish-blue head, neck and underparts, yellow legs and feet and other characteristics were easily noted. The bird remained for several days. The Gallinule was always on the sunny side of the pond during morning hours. At times the bird would walk on the tree limbs that were close to the water and turn leaves in search of insects. Many minnows, tadpoles and frogs are in the pond at this time of year. The pond is approximately two acres in size surrounded by trees — • pines, water willows, blackberry, birch, oak, maple, ash, cedar and dog¬ wood — very dense edge. A bank about six feet high surrounds the pond hiding it from view. Deep woods are on two sides and open field and yard on the other two sides. A “Bird Alert” was sent out and eight additional K.O.S. members had an opportunity to see this rare visitant. It was last observed on May 24. As far as I know, Kentucky has only 13 records of the Purple Gallinule, but the species is known often to wander far from its normal range. This sighting of the Purple Gallinule is the fourteenth record for the state and the first for Grayson County. — KATHRYN AND HERBERT L. CLAY, JR., 214 Sequoya, Louisville 40207. NEWS AND VIEWS ANNOTATED CHECKLIST OF THE BIRDS OF KENTUCKY IS READY! Just a reminder that the Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky by Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Anne L. Stamm and Brainard L. Palmer-Ball, Jr. is ready for purchase from the K.O.S. Please, make checks payable to the K.O.S. in the amount of $6.00 ($5.00 for K.O.S. members) plus 5% sales tax if you are a Kentucky resident. Orders should be sent to the Kentucky Ornithological Society, 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, Kentucky 40241. K.O.S. FALL MEETING The Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held at Kentucky Dam Village 30 September through October 2. Be sure to make your reservations for room accommodations early. Mark the dates on your calendar and plan to enjoy good birding with good friends. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact the Program Chairperson, Virginia Kingsolver, Route 1, Carlisle, Kentucky 40311. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 64 NOVEMBER, 1988 NO. 4 IN THIS ISSUE JAN 1 Q RUFFED GROUSE DRUMMING SITES IN EASTERN K Alexis M. Triquet, William C. McComb a*d Jeffery D. Sole CKY, THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1988, J K.O.S. ANNUAL FALL MEETING THE TREASURER’S REPORT, John Krull FIELD NOTES NEWS AND VIEWS 54 61 67 69 72 74 53 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Vice-President Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Jim Williams, Lexington Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle John Krull 1108 Whetstone Way, Louisville, KY 40223 Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors: Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Mary Lydia Greenwell, Owensboro Clell Peterson, Murray Donnie Spencer, Hazard 1986-1988 1986-1988 1988-1990 1988-1990 Retiring President Fred Busroe, Morehead Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Staff Artist Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for this excellent photograph of an American Goldfinch. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 54 RUFFED GROUSE DRUMMING SITES IN EASTERN KENTUCKY Alexis M. Triquet, William C. McComb, and Jeffery D. Sole During a study of habitat use and mortality of Ruffed Grouse ( Bonasa umbellus) on the Cumberland Plateau, we identified features of habitat that were selected for drumming- sites by male Ruffed Grouse. Previously, Hardy (1950) and Snyder (1973) described drumming sites in eastern Kentucky and West Virginia, respectively, but they did not quantify associated habitat characteristics. Taylor (1976) and Dearden and Durham (1978) examined physical characteristics and topographic locations of drumming logs in Tennessee; Harris (1981) measured the habitat at drumming sites in Georgia; and Thompson et al. (1987) studied the drumming, nesting, and brood habitat-types in Missouri. Only Hale et al. (1982) and Taylor (1976) have characterized both drumming sites and the vegetation characteristics that comprise suitable drumming habitat in the region. Hale et al. (1982) compared 14 drumming sites in Georgia with an equal number of nearby unused sites. Drumming sites were found among a variety of overstory types and aspects throughout the range of elevations in the area. Physical structure of vegetation apparently determined habitat suitability more than species composition. Discriminant analysis showed that all vegetation layers contributed to suitability conditions, but that the most important characteristics were overhead concealment around the stage and visibility at about 0.5 m above ground level, conditions best provided by erieaceous shrub thickets. Taylor (1976), comparing 129 drumming logs in Tennessee to 37 unused logs, found that high midstory and understory densities characterized the used sites. In this study, we recorded and compared 34 stage and habitat characteristics at ten drumming sites and seven unused sites in eastern Kentucky with univariate statistics and a new method of discriminant analysis. The objective was to identify those characteristics of stage and habitat that best distinguish occupied and unoccupied sites. STUDY AREA The study was conducted in the 5,880-ha Robinson Forest, Breathitt County, eastern Kentucky. Vegetation is second-growth, uneven-aged, mixed mesophytic forest on steep, well-drained slopes with winding creeks; ridge tops are dry (Overstreet 1984). Elevation ranges from 240 to 430 m above msl. Eighty percent of the forest is on slope gradients greater than 15%. The vegetation in Robinson Forest has been described by Carpenter and Rumsey (1976). Ridges are dominated by shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata), pitch pine (P. rigida), chestnut oak ( Quercus prinus), and scarlet oak ( Q. coccinea). Slopes are dominated by hickories ( Cary a spp.) , 55 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 white oak (Q. alba), red maple (Acer rubrum), sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum), yellow-poplar (Lirioclendron tulipifera), and magnolias (Magnolia spp.). Along drainages, American beech (Fagus grandifolia) and eastern hemlock (Tsugci canadensis) are most common. The shrubs are primarily mountain-laurel (Kalmia latifolia), rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) and blueberries (Vaccinium spp.). METHODS Drumming sites were located from mid-March through May, 1986, and drumming stage and habitat characteristics measured in summer 1986. The log characteristics recorded were length, maximum diameter, angle with respect to slope, shape, decay class (Thomas 1979:80), and hardwood or softwood classification. Altitude of the log on the slope and drumming-stage height were also recorded. Habitat measurements were made with techniques modified from Noon (1981). All overstory trees (=r5 cm dbh) on 0.04-ha circular plots centered on the drumming stages were recorded by species and 5-em-dbh class. Beginning at plot center, 11-m transects were established in four directions: slope downward, slope upward, and in two directions perpendicular to the slope. To estimate the density of midstory stems, we walked each transect and counted the number of contacts with woody stems <5 cm dbh and >1.5 m tall. The number of understory woody stems <5 cm dbh and <;1.5 m tall was recorded by species on one 1-m-radius subplot established on each transect around a pin 6 m from plot center. Five sightings equidistant along each transect were taken with an ocular sighting tube, and hits and misses on herbaceous vegetation were recorded. Slope and aspect were also recorded. In order to identify the characteristics of log and habitat that contributed to use by grouse, seven unoccupied logs were subjected to the same survey, except for drumming-stage height, as occupied logs (Hale el al. 1982). Unused logs were selected from the same portion of the slope and within 100 m of drumming sites in order to minimize variation in slope portion and overstory type (Hale et al. 1982). Stem densities of tree, shrub, and understory plant species were included in analyses only when relative densities or relative dominance (basal area or cover) of used and unused sites differed more than 50%. Discriminant function analysis (DFA) and f-tests identified those variables that separated used from unused sites. A subset of 13 variables that showed trends towards differentiating used and unused sites was used in DFA. The subset of variables were ranked on their ability to predict the degree of separation (Z) between groups (Rayens, personal communication). SAS PROC MATRIX (SAS Institute, Inc. 1982) was used to produce an eigenvalue that described separation between the two groups. Eigenvalues thus measured the discriminatory power. A new eigenvalue was calculated by dropping the variable least able to predict Z. The procedure was repeated until the single best predictor of Z remained. This type of DFA has no distributional context (Rayens, personal communication); therefore the data did not need to be normally distributed. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 56 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Drumming activity began on March 16, 1986, and peaked in early April. Ten drumming sites were identified, all in mature forest. Three had an eastern exposure, and the other seven each occupied different exposures. Slopes (0° to 25°, "x" = 14°) at occupied sites were not as steep as slopes (12° to 32°, x" = 22°) at unoccupied sites (P < 0.10), which suggests there may be a maximum incline above which grouse find conditions unsuitable (Taylor 1976, Hale et al. 1982). Three sites were on ridge-tops, four on the upper portion of the slope, and three at mid-slope. Hardy (1950), Stoll et al. (1979), Harris (1981), Taylor (1976) and Thompson et al. (1987) among others, have also reported a preference by grouse for drumming on upper slopes. Seven drumming logs were hardwoods, two were softwoods, and one was unidentifiable. Nine were in the class-3 stage of decomposition, and one in class-2 (maximum decomposition = class-5, Thomas 1979). Only length differed significantly (P < 0.1) between used and unused logs, the former being longer (Table 1). Mean log length was 13.5 m (8.0-20.0 m) and mean diameter, 42.5 cm (28-63 cm). Log direction in relation to slope averaged 64.5° (40°-90°), distance from butt to stage 4.6 m (0.5-11.5 m), and drumming-stage height 49 cm (38-64 cm). Taylor (1976) reported that similar-sized logs (x = 9.5 m long, 33 cm in diameter, and 50 cm above ground) were used for drumming sites in Tennessee. Hardy (1950) reported that most drumming logs used in eastern Kentucky (n = 19) were 9-15 m long and 38-50 cm in diameter. Vegetation on drumming sites • — Grouse selected drumming sites under a variety of overstory types. Overstory structure was similar on used and unused sites (P > 0.1) (Table 1), and plant species composition did not differ significantly between them. Midstory stem density on used sites was lower than that on unused sites only in the downslope direction (P < 0.05, Table 1). Both midstory and understory stem densities on the other three transects were equal to or greater than densities at unused sites (Table 1). This structure may give higher visibility in the downslope direction, greater concealment in other directions, and greater ease of escape if birds are flushed from a log. Visibility and concealment factors are important to drumming grouse (Stoll et al. 1979, Hale et al. 1982). Discriminant Analysis — The 13 variables that were ranked according to their correlation with Z are shown in Table 2. The indicative results of the t-test aided in variable selection for DFA; however, discriminant analysis on such a limited data set must be interpreted with caution (Magnusson 1983). No habitat model was proposed in this exploratory study; DFA was used only to describe drumming site habitat in a multivariate context. Correlations ranged from 0.57 for the best predictor, midstory stem density on the downslope transect, to 0.24 for mean diameter of the log. Dropping the poor predictors (r <; 0.35) did not affect misclassification, which did not exceed 10% for used sites and 14% for unused sites until all but three variables had been dropped (Table 2). Eigenvalues dropped sharply at the very start of the procedure, and continued to decrease significantly until seven variables were left (Fig. 1). Dropping additional variables resulted in a gradual decrease in eigenvalues (Fig. 1). 57 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Table 1. Habitat and log characteristics of drumming sites used by Ruffed Grouse (N = 10) and of adjacent unused sites (N = 7) in Robinson Forest, Kentucky, March-July, 1986. Used site Unused site Variables X SE X SE Slope (°) . 14.1* 2.6 21.6* 2.9 No. overstory species 11.4 0.6 10.6 1.2 No. midstory species 10.1 1.1 9.1 0.8 No. understory species 9.0 0.8 8.6 0.7 Overstory basal area (m2/ha) 33.7 3.4 32.4 3.8 Overstory density/0.04 ha Deciduous stems 63.9 7.0 63.3 9.4 Evergreen stems 9.2 4.0 6.6 4.1 Dead stems . 2.8 0.9 3.9 1.3 Chestnut oak (Quercus prinus) 4.3 1.2 2.4 1.0 Black oak ( Q. velutina ) 4.6 1.3 2.6 0.7 Midstory density/88 m2 Deciduous stems . 49.3 5.4 46.3 10.9 Evergreen stems . . 4.7 2.1 4.2 4.3 Dead stems 5.6 1.5 4.7 0.9 Stems downslope 11.7** 1.2 18.6** 2.7 Stems upslope 15.1 1.7 14.3 2.4 Stems right . 17.1 1.1 14.7 2.0 Stems left 16.5 2.5 12.6 2.8 Understory density/12 m2 Deciduous stems 58.1 7.7 51.4 9.3 Evergreen stems 1.9 1.1 7.1 4.8 Dead stems 0.3* 0.3 1.9* 0.8 Greenbriar (Smilax spp.) 8.5 2.2 15.7 4.9 Chestnut oak 3.6 1.7 0.9 0.6 Serviceberry (Amelanchier arbor ea) 2.7 1.1 0.3 0.3 Buffalo nut (Pyrularia pubera ) 2.7 1.6 0.3 0.3 Stems downslope 19.5 3.2 18.1 3.8 Stems upslope 24.4 2.8 21.9 3.9 Stems right . 25.5 3.3 21.9 4.9 Stems left . 16.8 2.8 16.6 1.6 Ground cover, % Evergreen herbs 4.0 2.3 5.0 3.6 Non-evergreen herbs 27.0 4.0 26.4 5.2 Dead wood 3.0 1.1 4.3 2.0 Log characteristics Length (nr) 13.5* 1.3 9.9* 1.5 Diameter (cm) 42.5 3.3 38.0 2.9 Direction in relation to slope (°) 64.5 5.6 36.4 13.8 * Means differ at P < 0.10. ** Means differ at U < 0.05. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 58 Table 2. Eigenvalues and miselassifieations of selected variables for differentiating sites used (N = = 10) and not used (N = 7) by Ruffed Grouse as drumming sites in Robinson Forest, ' Kentucky, March-July, 1986. Number Misclassi- Eigen- Corre- of Variable fications a value lation variables names Used Unused (-r- 1000 >b with Z 13 Log Diameter . .. 0 0 0.397 0.237 12 Overstory chestnut oak density . .. 0 0 0.306 0.272 11 Understory buffalo nut density . 0 0 0.128 0.310 10 Overstory black oak density . .. 0 0 0.106 0.312 9 Understory chestnut oak density 0 0 0.089 0.317 8 Understory evergreen stem density 0 0 0.072 0.322 7 Understory greenbriar density . 0 1 0.031 0.361 6 Understory serviceberry density .... 1 1 0.025 0.429 5 Log length . 1 1 0.025 0.440 4 Slope . 1 1 0.023 0.457 3 Understory dead stem density . 1 2 0.012 0.481 2 Log direction . 1 3 0.008 0.501 1 Midstory stem density (downslope transect) . 1 3 0.007 0.569 a Number of used and unused sites classified incorrectly in discriminant function analysis with the given value and all below it. b A measure of the difference between sites derived with the indicated number of variables. The dramatic decrease in eigenvalues prevented identification of a subset of variables suitable for differentiating used and unused sites and indicated that all 13 variables contributed to site suitability for drumming. Hale et al. (1982) also found that all vegetation layers affected drumming site selection in Georgia. Composition of the overstory and understory, structure of the understory and midstory, log size, and slope apparently contribute collectively to site selection. MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS Drumming sites identified in this study can be characterized as large, class-3 logs nearly parallel to the contour on gentle mid to upper slopes (11-17°). The areas were dominated by chestnut oak and black oak ( Q. velutina) with evergreen shrubs and buffalo-nut (Pyrularia pub era) in the understory. Midstory stem density was sparse immediately downslope from the log. This characterization closely follows that for drumming- logs provided by Hardy (1950) in eastern Kentucky, Stoll et al. (1979) in Ohio and Taylor (1976) in Tennessee, and that for vegetation provided by Hale et al. (1982) in Georgia. 59 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Figure 1. Eigenvalues (A.) as a function of the number of variables (N). N In natural stands, drumming logs are produced by windthrow. When a mature tree (40- to 50-cm dbh) falls in a forest, a dense patch of understory and midstory vegetation develops as a result of sunlight penetration to the forest floor. Because windthrow of trees greater than 40 cm in dbh is unlikely in intensively managed forests, 1 or 2 such logs per hectare should be left after clearcutting in mid and upper slopes to provide suitable drumming stages for grouse. Vegetation structure and composition typical of drumming sites can be provided by patch clearcutting, but some provisions for drumming logs or alternative stages must be made if forests are to be managed for both wood products and Ruffed Grouse. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We thank the Robinson Forest staff for technical assistance, B. Rayens for advice on statistical analses, and S. A. Bonney and R. J. Mauro for commenting on an early version of this manuscript. This is paper No. 88-8-157 produced in connection with Project No. 624 of the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station and published with the approval of the Director. The study was funded in part by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. This is paper number 2423 of the Forest Research Laboratory, Oregon State University. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 60 LITERATURE CITED Backs, S. E. 1984. Ruffed Grouse restoration in Indiana, pp. 37-58 in W. L. Robinson, ed. Ruffed Grouse management: state-of-the-art in the earlv 1980’s. North Cent. Sect., The Wildl. Soc. Bookcrafters, Chelsea, MI. Boag, D. A. 1976. The effect of shrub removal on occupancy of Ruffed Grouse drumming sites. J. Wildl. Manage. 40:105-110. Carpenter, S. B. and R. L. Rumsey. 1976. Trees and shrubs of Robinson Forest, Breathitt County, Kentucky. Castanea 41:277-282. Dearden, B. L. and D. Durham. 1978. A technique for statistically differentiating Ruffed Grouse drumming logs from non-drumming logs in East Tennessee. J. Tenn. Acad. Sci. 53:98-103. Hale, P. E., A. S. Johnson, and J. L. Landers. 1982. Characteristics of Ruffed Grouse drumming sites in Georgia. J. Wildl. Manage. 46:115-123. Hardy, F. C. 1950. Ruffed Grouse studies in eastern Kentucky. Kentucky Division of Fish and Game, Frankfort. 26 pp. Harris, M. C. 1981. Spring and summer ecology of Ruffed Grouse in northern Georgia. M. S. Thesis, University of Georgia, Athens. 133 pp. Magnusson, W. E. 1983. Use of discriminant function to characterize Ruffed Grouse drumming sites in Georgia: a critique. J. Wildl. Manage. 47:1151-1152. Noon, B. R. 1981. Techniques for sampling avian habitats, pp. 42-52 in D. E. Capen, ed. The use of multivariate statistics in studies of wildlife habitat. U.S. Dep. Agric. For. Serv. Gen. Tech. Rep. RM-87. Overstreet, J. C. 1984. Robinson Forest inventory, 1980-1982, Breathitt, Knott, and Perry Counties, Kentucky. Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, Lexington. 52 pp. Palmer, W. L. 1963. Ruffed Grouse drumming sites in northern Michigan. J. Wildl. Manage. 27:656-663. Rusch, D. H. and L. B. Keith. 1971. Ruffed Grouse-vegetation relationships in central Alberta. J. Wildl. Manage. 35:417-429. SAS Institute, Inc. 1982. SAS user’s guide: statistics, 1982 Ed. SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, North Carolina. 584 pp. Snyder, R. A. 1973. Drumming sites and early winter foods of the Ruffed Grouse. M.S. Thesis, West Virginia University, Morgantown. 55 pp. Stoll, R. J., Jr., M. W. McClain, R. L. Boston, and G. P. Honchul. 1979. Ruffed Grouse drumming site characteristics in Ohio. J. Wildl. Manage. 43:324-333. Taylor, D. A. 1976. An analysis of some physical characteristics of Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus) drumming sites and logs in middle and eastern Tennessee. M.S. Thesis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 72 pp. Thomas, J. W., ed. 1979. Wildlife habitats in managed forests. U.S. Dep. Agric. For. Serv. Agric. Handb. 553. 512 pp. Thompson, F. R. Ill, D. A. Freiling, and E. K. Fritzell. 1987. Drumming, nesting, and brood habitats of Ruffed Grouse in an oak-hickory forest. J. Wildl. Manage. 51:568-575. — Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40546 Corresponding author, William C. McComb. Present address: Department of Forest Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331. Cl THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1988 Anne L. Stamm The months of June and July were dry and hot. Louisville experienced 19 days with temperatures of 90 to 101 degrees during June, and four consecutive days with three digit temperatures (100-103) in July. On June 22 the temperature topped 100 degrees at Paducah, breaking a 36-year old record of 98 degrees for that date, and Lexington hit 99 degrees, breaking a 65-year old record, according to the National Weather Service. Less than an inch of rain fell during June. Drought conditions prevailed over much of the state, especially in western and central Kentucky. This situation caused farm ponds and creek beds to dry up and rivers to reach low levels. Despite the intense heat, the summer reports contained an increasing amount of breeding activities of the birds of the state. Alan Barron and Michael Stinson did considerable field work for the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas and found some species of summering birds in locations where heretofore they were unknown. Fish Crows were found far north of their normal summer range. Willow Flycatchers and Henslow’s Sparrows were observed in new locations. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. discovered a new Bank Swallow colony, Lee McNeely found two new Cliff Swallow colonies, and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Wendell Haag discovered a nest of the Brown Creeper; a first for Kentucky. Another highlight of the season was the discovery of a substantial nesting population of Bell’s Vireo, by Alan Barron. Below are the records of many observers. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; PWMA = Peal Wildlife Management Area; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County; SHF = Surrey Hills Farm, Jefferson County. Loons through Cormorants — A Common Loon lingered until “early June,” on Carr’s Fork, Knott County (DSp), and one remained on Kentucky Lake until June 23 (BPB). An American Pelican, a rare visitant here, was found on the Falls of the Ohio on June 25, by Kathryn Clay. She put out a “bird alert” and several observers were lucky enough to see the bird before it took flight. The only Double-crested Cormorant reported was the one perched on a snag in the Ohio River, V \ mile upstream from Dam 52, July 31 (CP). Herons — A single Least Bittern was observed in the Cave Run Lake area, Rowan County, June 1 (DP). Personnel from the Kentucky Nature Preserves Commission and the Nongame Wildlife Program of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources surveyed the Great Blue Heron colonies and found them active and “comparable in total nests to the past year or two.” However, the small colony, on Malcolm Creek Bay of Kentucky Lake, appeared to be increasing (BPB). Also, eight Great Blue Herons were seen at PWMA, June 28 and ± 50 at Lake #9, July 7, with about half immatures (CP); and present, in small numbers, throughout the season at East Bend, Boone County (LMc). Two nests (possibly three) 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 62 of Great Egrets were found again at Axe Lake Swamp on June 2 (BPB, W. Haag) and June 23 (BPB, D. Yancey). Other Great Egret records from June 11 through July 31 included the following: nine at PWMA (CP); singles at Lake Pewee (JH) and Long Creek Waterfowl Management Area (CP) ; one to five at the Falls of the Ohio (LR, DN, DP); and six at SWMA (BPB, D. Ebel). Also, ± 75 gathered at Lake #9 on July 7 (CP). There were more reports of Little Blue Herons than usual. One was sighted at Me Alpine Dam on the early date of June 1 (LR) ; an adult observed in the Black-crowned Night-Heronry, June 17, may have nested there again this year (BPB); an immature and three adults were seen on the Falls of the Ohio rock ledge, July 26 (LR). Other Little Blue Heron sightings included one at Luzcine Lake, Muhlenberg County June 21 (AB) ; four adults and five juveniles at PWMA, and two adults and two immatures at BWMA, June 28 (CP) ; On July 31 there were eight immature and three adult Little Blues in Carlisle County (CP), and 25 immatures and one adult at SWMA (BPB, D. Ebel). It appeared that there were three nests of Cattle Egrets in the rookery on Shippingport Island this year (BPB). The only other Cattle Egrets reported were the 18-)- (not aged) in Ballard County, about six miles south of Wickcliffe, July 31, and an adult in breeding plumage at PWMA, June 28 (CP), A pair of Green-backed Herons nested at Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County (KC) ; eight were present at the Falls of the Ohio, July 31 (LR) and singles observed in Jefferson and Oldham counties during the period (S). Approximately 300 nests of Black-crowned Night-Herons were found in the colony on Shippingport Island, June 17 (BPB, B. Van Hoff); and the colony at Lake Barkley had decreased and only six nests were found June 23 (BPB, D. Yancy). An immature Black-crowned was noted at East Bend, June 18 (LMc) and two adults were present at a small lake in the Ten Broeck area, Jefferson County, June 6 but were gone the following day (S). The following nests of Yellow-crowned Night-Herons were found: two at Shepherdsville (KC, LR) ; one at Shippingport Island (BPB); and two on Obion Creek, Hickman County (BPB, R. Cicerello) ; no report on the Lexington colony was received. Other observations included single adults at PWMA on June 28 and in Muhlenberg County, in a swampy area, where the Illinois Central Railroad crosses SR 70, June 12 (CP) ; and three adults and four immatures at the Falls of the Ohio in late July (BPB). Waterfowl • — The only evidence of nesting waterfowl were Wood Ducks and Mallards. There were two broods of Wood Ducks in Owen County, on June 10, and an adult with nine young at East Bend, May 30 (LMc). Fifty plus were seen in the Mayfield Bottom swamp, Carlisle County, July 31 (CP) ; and five were present during the summer at BPS (KC). Mallards nested again at East Bend (LMc). Hawks — Adult Ospreys were observed at a nest near Bayou, Livingston County, June 23 and 24 (BPB); and single birds were noted at the Falls of the Ohio, July 16 (KC), July 24 and August 1 (DP). Mississippi Kites were again observed in Fulton County in June and July; two locations in Ballard County and near Mayfield Creek, Carlisle County, July 9 and 31, respectively (CP). An adult Bald Eagle was flushed by accident from trees on the east end of Mitchell Lake, BWMA, July 31 (CP). A pair of Sharp-shinned Hawks was present at Surrey Hills Farm during July, but no nest or young were found (BPB). Atlas workers found single 63 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 birds in northeastern Kentucky during July in the following locations: southwest of Burtonville along the Fleming/Lewis County line; near Petersville in Lewis County; several miles south of Garrison in Lewis County; and south of Jeffersonville in Montgomery County (AB, MS). During the month of May an active nest of Cooper’s Hawks was found, near Crittenden, Grant County (K. Caminiti fide LMc). There were more sightings of Cooper’s Hawks this summer than usual and single birds were found in the following counties: Breckinridge, Grayson (KC), Simpson (BPB), Lewis (MS), and Magoffin (AB). Also, a single bird was seen at Spurlington, Taylor County (BPB) and at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Nelson County (AB). On July 31 an adult and two juvenile Red-shouldered Hawks were observed at BWMA (CP). Strangely enough, the only Broad-winged Hawk reported was one over Butler Lake at BWMA, July 31 (CP). A Krider’s Hawk, found in Oldham County, along Hwy. 42, July 31, was unusual, particularly for that time of year (DN). Two American Kestrels and one juvenile were seen in the vicinity of New Providence, Calloway County, July 25 (CP). Shorebirds — Shorebird habitat was limited this summer due to the very dry weather. Numbers were generally low and some species arrived later than normal. A Semipalmated Plover was seen at SWMA on July 31 (BPB). Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs arrived on schedule at Mitchell Lake, July 9 (CP). Greater Yellowlegs were first recorded at the Falls of the Ohio on July 21 (LR, BPB), and at SWMA on July 31 (BPB). Six Lesser Yellowlegs reached the Falls of the Ohio on July 16 (DN) and five at SWMA on July 31 (BPB). A Solitary Sandpiper in breeding plumage, near Dublin, Graves County June 2, was a late spring migrant (CP). Fall Solitary Sandpipers began returning to two locations in Mason County by July 14 (AB). A Willet was discovered at the Falls of the Ohio on July 15-19 (LR) ; a report of one there July 21, possibly pertained to the same bird (BPB). A Spotted Sandpiper was noted at East Bend throughout June, but no evidence of nesting was observed (LMc) ; a juvenile was observed at the Falls of the Ohio on July 26 and at least 12 birds were there in “late July” (BPB). A Sanderling was noted at the Falls of the Ohio, July 26 (DP, BPB, AB) and again on August 1 (DP). There were few reports of the Semipalmated Sandpiper: they were present at the Falls of the Ohio, July 21-24 (DP, JK, BPB), with a high count of 26 on July 21 (DP) ; and one at BWMA on July 31 (CP). Two Western Sandpipers were recorded at the Falls of the Ohio, July 21 (BPB, DP); one there July 23 (BPB). The two Least Sandpipers at Louisville, June 1, were late spring migrants (AB). Fall Least Sandpipers returned to BWMA July 9 (CP) and to the Falls of the Ohio on July 21, with a high there of 25 (BPB); and five were noted at SWMA on July 31 (BPB). The rare White-rumped Sandpiper was present at the Falls of the Ohio, July 21 (DP) and 10-50 Pectoral Sandpipers were there between July 23-26 (JK, BPB). Other Pectoral sightings included one at Lentz’s Pond, Jefferson County, July 30 (LR); one at BWMA July 31 (CP); and six at SWMA, July 30 (BPB). The Stilt Sandpiper at the Falls of the Ohio, July 24, was the only one reported (DP). Two to three Short-billed Dowitchers were recorded at the Falls of the Ohio, July 23 and 26 (BPB). The four Dowitcher spp. at BWMA, July 9 (CP), and the one below McAlpine Dam, July 12 (LR) were probably Short-billed Dowitchers. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 64 Gulls — The Ring-billed Gull is normally rare here in summer, although in recent years a number have been showing up in June. The following Ring-billed Gulls were reported: 43 at Kentucky Lake above the Dam, June 23 (BPB), one at Newburgh Dam in Henderson County, July 31 (BPB, D. Ebel) ; three at the Falls of the Ohio, June 25 (S, FS) ; two there June 28 (DN), and one or two remained through July (BPB). Also, two Herring Gulls were still present at the latter location June 1 (LR) ; one immature there July 28 (DN), and a third-year bird at Kentucky Lake above the Dam, June 23 (BPB). Single Caspian Terns appeared at the Falls of the Ohio, June 25 (LR) and July 21 (DP, BPB) ; and three there August 1 (DP). The only Common Tern reported was one at Louis¬ ville on the Ohio River, July 21 (DP). Also, a Forster’s Tern was at the Falls of the Ohio, July 21 (BPB, DP) ; and two at Newburgh Dam, July 31 (BPB, D. Ebel). A few Least Terns were present at the Smithland Dam in June, and a “stable number” on the Mississippi River (BPB). An adult and a first-year Black Tern were seen flying over the Least Tern colony on the Mississippi River, Carlisle County, June 3 (BPB, W. Haag). Doves through Woodpeckers — Mourning Doves had a good year. A Black-billed Cuckoo was heard in Taylor County on June 26 (BPB) ; also ob¬ served in Greenup County in July (AB, MS). Yellow-billed Cuckoos appeared to be down in numbers (CP) and were seldom heard in the Louisville area (S). A Great Horned Owl nest in Burlington, Boone County, fledged one young, one egg failed to hatch (LMc) ; three young were observed at Brigadoon, Barren County (RS). Two Chuck-will’s-widows were heard at BPS and probably nested there (KC). Ruby-throated Hummingbirds fed regularly at feeding stations in Grayson, Woodford, Hopkins and Jefferson counties (KC, SH, JH, KC, respectively) , but no nests were found. A nest, however, was found along Middle Creek, Boone County, June 25. Incubation was noted on July 11 and young in the nest on July 24 (LMc). Red-headed Woodpeckers were observed nesting at two locations in Jefferson County (JK, S). During the month of June the Red-cockaded Woodpecker was dis¬ covered at four sites in the southern Daniel Boone National Forest (Dennis Daniel, U.S. Forest Service fide BPB). A nest of Pileated Woodpeckers, with young, was found at the Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve, May 29 (LMc). Flycatchers through Creepers — There were more reports of the Willow Flycatcher this summer than usual and singing birds were found in new locations. These records are probably due to more intensive field work, rather than an increase in the nesting population. During June singing birds were heard in Meade, Trimble and Oldham counties (BPB). Also, Willow Flycatchers were heard singing during the month of July along the Bath/Rowan County line, and in Fleming, Mason, Morgan and Greenup counties in eastern Kentucky ( AB, MS) . A number of Eastern Phoebe nests were reported : one at Natural Bridge State Park, Powell County ; one at Napoleon in Gallatin County; at Union, and at Big Bone State Park, in Boone County (LMc) . A singing Horned Lark was heard near New Liberty in Owen County, June 11, where records are few (LMc) . The large colony of Purple Martins in Ballard County was reduced to about 20 pairs as compared to at least 75 pairs in 1984 (S, DS, FS) ; also a decrease in the Seneca Park, Louisville colony to two or three pairs while a large post-breeding concentration consisted of 4000 at Shipping-port 65 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Island, July 16 (DN). Small numbers of Tree Swallows were seen at Axe Lake Swamp on June 2 (BPB), and at East Bend, June 18 (LMc) ; two broods were raised near Crittenden, Grant County (K. Caminiti fide LMc). The Bank Swallow colonies near Petersburg and Belleview in Boone County, were again successful (LMc) ; one colony in Carroll County had 40-50 burrows and the other was inactive (S, FS). A new Bank Swallow colony found in Meade County, April 30 (BM), contained 75 active nesting burrows in late May (BPB). Fair numbers of Cliff Swallows nested in Kentucky this year. The colony at Barkley Dam had some 140+ nests (S, DS, FS) ; some 40 active nests in the Gunpowder colony, Boone County, and 35 nests in the Markland Dam colony (LMc) ; two new colonies under bridges in Gallatin County, with 40 and 60 nests, respectively (LMc) ; one near Hillsboro in Fleming County (MS); and nesting observed on the bridge over Rough River, Grayson/Breckinridge County line (BPB). A nest of American Crows was discovered at Burlington, where two young were successfully fledged on June 9 (LMc). The Fish Crow has been known to be an uncommon summer resident along the Mississippi River and lower Ohio River as far upstream as Paducah. This summer there was a dramatic move northward. An adult bird was seen and heard near Henderson, just east of the bridge, June 16 (AB) ; several heard calling on a sandbar upstream from the Shawneetown Bridge, July 29 (R. Cicerello, W. Haag fide BPB). Mike Stinson reported two adults along Green River at the ferry site, near Pleasant Valley, along the Henderson/ McLean County line, June 24. Other birds heard farther south included one at Smithland Dam, June 24 (BPB) and several in Mayfield Bottom, Carlisle County (CP). Brown Creepers were found nesting at the Axe Lake Swamp on June 2 and represents the first breeding record for the state (BPB, W. Haag). Wrens through Shrikes — Bewick’s Wrens were observed on June 11 at two locations in Grant County and at one location in Owen County. A singing bird was still present on July 2 at one of the Grant County loca¬ tions (LMc), and another heard near Hensley, Breckinridge County, June 6 (AB). A singing male Sedge Wren was observed near Tar Fork, Breck¬ inridge County, June 6 (AB); and seven territorial males singing along Hardy and Muddy Sloughs on SWMA, July 31 (BPB, D. Ebel). Cedar Wax- wings had a good year and were present during the period in much of the state (m.ob.). Two immature Loggerhead Shrikes were noted at Skylight, Oldham County, July 23 (LR) ; and an adult with two young in Nelson County, July 23 (BM) were the only nesting observations reported. Vireo, Warblers — Quite a surprise was the sighting of at least 10 singing male Bell’s Vireos scattered about the Breckinridge Job Corps center near Waverly, Union County, June 13; some females present too (AB) ; 12 heard singing in Union County, June 19 (BM), and one bird present west of Ekron, Meade County, in “early June” (AB, MS). A nest of Yellow-throated Vireos with young birds, was found at General Butler State Park, Carroll County, May 26 (LMc). A nest of Yellow Warblers was reported from the Hunting Creek Golf Course, Prospect, Jefferson County, mid-June (JK). A Blue-winged Warbler was seen feeding young out of the nest, near Middle Creek, June 25 (LMc) ; adult birds and Golden-winged were also noted in Lawrence County, July 15 (AB). A 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 66 male Brewster’s Warbler was heard singing in the same location, July 15 (AB). Fledged young Pine Warblers were noted in Nelson County, June 28 (AB) and also a singing bird recorded at Mammoth Cave National Park, July 31 (RS). Swainson’s Warblers were on territory, at least in three locations in June, with a family group also observed in July in the Red River Gorge vicinity (T. Towles, M. Medley fide BPB). An Ovenbird nest was under construction, May 16, at the Boone County Nature Preserves (LMc). Nest building of the Kentucky Warbler was noted at Natural Bridge State Park, May 14 (LMc). Parent birds were observed feeding- fledged Common Yellowthroats at Middle Creek, June 25 (LMc). Tanager through Finches — The two Scarlet Tanagers heard singing, June 18 in Hopkins County, probably nested there (JH). There were more reports on the Blue Grosbeak than usual. On the Joy Breeding Bird Survey Route in Livingston County, June 24, a total of 20 birds was tallied at 18 stops (BPB). Blue Grosbeaks were recorded during June and July in the following counties: Hopkins (JH), Bullitt (DP), Nelson (several on terri¬ tory — BM), Owen (LMc), Bath, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Boyd, Mason, Morgan, Rowan, Lewis and Greenup (AB, M. Stinson fide BPB). A num¬ ber of these records are due to the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas work. Two male Bachman’s Sparrows were again present in Calloway County during the period (CP). The rare Lark Sparrow was encountered, near Corner’s, Breckinridge County, June 6 (AB, M. Stinson). Two Savannah Sparrows (territorial males) were observed in a pasture approximately three miles south of Ballardsville, Oldham County on June 16 (BPB, D. Ebel) ; and a pair, one “carried food and was agitated,” about one mile Northeast of Tollesboro, Lewis County, July 13 (AB). This sighting indi¬ cates the first known breeding record for Lewis County. Grasshopper Sparrows were found during June and July at several locations in Owen County (LMc). There were a number of interesting records of Henslow’s Sparrows this summer: at least four singing males, near Orangeburg, Mason County, July 13 (AB) ; two pairs, 2% miles north of West Liberty, along Elk Fork, Morgan County, July 23 (AB) ; one singing, near Grayson Springs, Grayson County, and two heard, approximately two miles south¬ east of Clarkson, Grayson County, June 10 (BPB, AB); also present in Breckinridge County in June (AB, M. Stinson) ; and two to three males singing north of Petersville, Lewis County, in mid-July (AB, M. Stinson). The Song Sparrow was found to be “almost common” in Mayfield Bottoms, Carlisle County (CP) ; also recorded at six locations in the Madisonville area (JH), but still not common at the Elk Creek Bridge vicinity (JH). Two male Bobolinks were noted southwest of Eminence, Shelby County on June 16 and may have nested there (BPB); also observed in June in Bourbon County (M. Flynn fide BPB). The sighting of a male Dark-eyed Junco southwest of Willard, Carter County, July 12 (AB) was most un¬ usual, and may have been a post-breeding stray. There were two reports of nesting Orchard Orioles: one in Henry County, and one in Boone County (LMc). Also, a pair of Northern Orioles raised young at BPS (KC). House Finches had a good year, with breeding observed in the following loca¬ tions: Burlington (several locations — -LMc); South Louisville, several nests (WJ) ; Ten Broeck area, young out of nest (S). Summer birds were seen in the following locations: in Ashland and Flatwoods, Boyd County; near Salem in Morgan County; near Counts Crossroads in Carter County; in Greenup, Greenup County; in Maysville, Mason County; in Mount Ster¬ ling, Montgomery County; and in Lewis County (AB). Some of the above information represents new summer county records. 67 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 Contributors — Alan Barron (AB) ; Kathryn Clay (KC) ; James W. Hancock (JH); Smith Hundley (SH); Wilbur Jackson (WJ); John Krull (JK) ; Lee McNeely (LMc) ; Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM); Doxie Noonan (DN) ; Donald Parker (DP); Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB) ; Clell Peterson (CP); Lene Rauth (LR); Russell Starr (RS) ; Anne L. Stamm (S) ; F. W. Stamm (FS) ; Michael Stinson (MS); Donald Summerfield (DS). — -9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY FALL MEETING — SEPTEMBER 30 — OCTOBER 2, 1988 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 65th annual Fall Meeting at Kentucky Dam Village State Park on September 30 - October 2, 1988. Jim Williams welcomed members and guests to the Friday evening session, held in the lodge meeting room. Virginia Kingsolver outlined the program and introduced the evening’s speakers. Clell Peterson presented a brief history of the Land Between the Lakes area. Ed Ray updated the Bald Eagle and Osprey hacking programs in the LBL. Blaine Ferrell and Jeff Jones presented information on nesting birds at strip mining pits in Muehlenberg County. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. concluded the program with a report on the first documented nesting of Brown Creepers in Ken¬ tucky and slides of the Pomarine Jaeger taken in 1987 at Kentucky Dam. Times and sites of Saturday morning field trips were reviewed. Steady rain greeted birders on Saturday morning, who participated on field trips to Smithland Dam and various areas of the Land Between the Lakes. The Board of Directors met in the lodge at 3:30 P.M. The Saturday evening program was held in the lodge meeting room beginning at 7:30 P.M. Dr. Steve White was the evening speaker, providing an interesting program on Bald Eagle populations in the lower Ohio River valley. Donald Summerfield made members aware of the availability of the “Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky” and thanked the authors for their work on this project. The Nominating Committee presented the following slate of officers for the coming year which were approved: President — Jim Williams, Vice President — Virginia Kingsolver, Cor¬ responding Secretary-Treasurer — John Krull, Recording Secretary — Lee McNeely, and new Councillors — Gary Ritehison and Jeff Jones. Additional birds seen on Sunday brought the weekend total to 108 species. Total registrations for the Fall Meeting were 50. Respectfully submitted, Lee McNeely Recording Secretary 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 68 BIRDS RECORDED ON FIELD TRIPS DURING THE FALL MEETING AT KENTUCKY DAM VILLAGE STATE PARK SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 2, 1988 Common Loon, Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Blue-winged Teal, North¬ ern Shoveler, American Wigeon, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk*, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, Sora*, American Coot, Killdeer, Common Snipe, Laughing Gull, Franklin’s Gull, Bonaparte’s Gull*, Ring¬ billed Gull, Herring Gull, Caspian Tern*, Forester’s Tern*, Black Tern, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsuck- er, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Horned Lark*, Tree Swallow*, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow*, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Carolina Wren, House Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Water Pipit, Cedar Wax¬ wing, Loggerhead Shrike, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow- throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Ten¬ nessee Warbler, Northern Parula, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warb¬ ler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Palm Warbler*, Bay-breasted Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, American Redstart, Common Yellowthroat, Summer Tanager*, Scarlet Tanager*, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Common Grackle, Brown¬ headed Cowbird, Purple Finch*, House Finch, American Goldfinch, House Sparrow. Those species marked by an asterisk were observed on Sunday. The species total for the meeting was 108. ATTENDANCE AT THE FALL MEETING, 1988 BOWLING GREEN: Dr. and Mrs. Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, Mr. and Mrs. William Mathes BURLINGTON: Mr. and Mrs. Lee McNeely, Tom Stevens CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver ELIZABETHTOWN : Betty Boone, Susan Cruse, Joan Noel FRANKFORT: Howard Jones HAZARD: Donnie Spencer LEXINGTON: Robert Morris, Andrew Uterhart, Jim Williams 69 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 LOUISVILLE: Kathryn Clay, John Krull, Dr. Burt Monroe, Jr., Dr. Robert Noonan, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Don Parker, Mr. and Mrs. Frances Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Stamm, Don Summerfield, Virginia Osborn, Julia Woolridge MOREHEAD: Dr. Fred Busroe MURRAY : Happy Chambers, Sally Leedom, Michael Miller, Clell Peter¬ son OWENSBORO: Mary Lydia Greenwell, Neal Haydon, Janet Howard, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Powell, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Wilson PADUCAH: Mrs. Damon Cadell STANLEY : Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stevenson DYERSBURG, TN : Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Leggett JEFFERSONVILLE, IN: Lene Rauth REPORT OF TREASURER FISCAL YEAR 1987-88 GENERAL FUND Bank Balance, September 8, 1987 (1st National of Louisville) $2,450.16 Receipts Membership Dues Interest Income: $2,365.00 Gordon Wilson Fund Gift: (Wm. Rowe in memory of Joe Croft) Meetings Sale of Checklists, Patches, etc. Horner book donation Transfer from Gordon Wilson (Annotated Checklist) Sale of Annotated Checklists Endowment Fund 410.02 128.51 100.00 1,132.26 67.52 595.25 1,372.00 716.20 6,886.76 $9,336.9: 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 70 Disbursements Printing Costs (KY Warbler — 5 Issues) $2,272.69 Envelopes 148.75 Meetings . 978.59 Postage 354.62 Transfer of (2) Life Membership (Endowment) 150.00 Transfer of Interest to Gordon Wilson 128.51 Transfer of Checklist to Gordon Wilson 716.20 Bank Charge 3.15 Corporation Filing Fee 4.00 Printing of Annotated Checklist 1,372.00 Supplies . 53.70 Safe Deposit Box Rental 65.00 Bank Balance, September 28, 1988 ENDOWMENT FUND Balance in Savings (Future Federal), September 1, 1987 Certificates of Deposit: 2 @ $1,000.00 Great Financial Federal 1 @ 1,500.00 Future Federal 1 @ 1,000.00 Future Federal Receipts: 410.02 143.05 150.00 Interest on CD’s Interest on Savings Life Membership (2) Disbursements: Transfer on CD Interest to General Fund Balance in Fund, September 29, 1988 CD’s (4) . Balance in Savings, September 29, 1988 6,247.21 $3,089.71 $1,984.12 2,000.00 1,500.00 1,000.00 $6,454.12 703.07 7,187.19 410.02 $6,777.17 $4,500.00 2,277.17 $6,777.17 71 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 GORDON WILSON FUND Balance in Savings, September 1, 1987 Certificates of Deposit 2 @ $1,000.00 Great Financial Federal Receipts: 92.84 128.51 716.20 Interest on Savings Interest on CD’s Sale of Annotated Checklists Disbursements: Printing Cost of Annotated Checklists Balance in Fund, September 29, 1988 CD’s (2) Balance in Savings, September 29, 1988 NET WORTH Balance in General Fund, September 29, 1988 $3,089.71 Balance in Endowment, September 29, 1988 $6,777.17 Balance in Gordon Wilson Fund $3,188.95 $13,055.83 $1,623.40 2,000.00 $3,623.40 937.55 $4,560.95 1,372.00 $3,188.95 2,000.00 1,188.95 $3,188.95 John Krull, Treasurer ]988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 72 FIELD NOTES OBSERVATIONS OF A POLYGYNOUS WOOD DUCK (Aix spojisa) FAMILY THROUGH A BREEDING SEASON IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY During 1987, the author had the opportunity to observe an isolated Wood Duck clan (1 male, 2 females, and 24 ducklings) on a small stream in Bourbon County, in the central Bluegrass region of Kentucky. Obser¬ vations were made on a regular basis throughout the breeding season. The presence of Wood Ducks on this small, seasonally-running stream was a surprise — the stream is very near a rural state highway and is sur¬ rounded by pasture-land, with only scattered trees along its banks; the isolation and openness of this nesting area, however, did favor the making of these observations. Only when the ducklings were able to make the journey of a mile downstream to the junction of this stream with the much larger Hinkston Creek (which has well-wooded banks and a good Wood Duck population ) could they reach any other suitable habitat. Only the most pertinent observations are reported. A Wood Duck pair was first seen for the year in this area on May 5. They were swimming closely together on the creek, near the only nest-tree to be found in the vicinity: a sycamore on the creek bank with a cavity some 20 feet above the water. On May 12, the duck (female #1) was seen swimming beneath this tree with many newly-hatched ducklings in tow. The drake was not nearby, but was sighted that day swimming alone in a small, half-acre impoundment a quarter-mile downstream. This im¬ poundment (“the pond”) is also adjacent to the road, from which prac¬ tically all its shore may be viewed, there being only a little brushy cover at its upper end. On May 19, female #1 had taken her brood downstream to the pond, where they could be easily counted; the observer determined that there were 16 ducklings. On this date the drake was on the far end of the pond, hut was ignoring female #1 and her young. The drake was swimming closely (in bonded fashion) with a new duck (female #2). Although not confirmed absolutely, the individual markings of this drake lead to a confident assertion that the same male Wood Duck was involved in all of these observations. On May 26, female #1 and her rapidly-growing brood were on the pond, but the drake was nowhere to be seen. (Nor was he seen at any later time, perhaps having flown down to Hinkston Creek, soon to begin molting to eclipse plumage.) Female #2 had also disappeared from view on this date. On June 2, female #1 — with her large brood — was at one end of the pond, and female #2 had returned to the other end of the pond with seven newly-hatched ducklings. Then and later, the two ducks seemed to tolerate each other well but kept careful watch on their own broods, which were at all times kept apart from each other. On June 5, female #1 with 15 ducklings and female #2 with seven ducklings still shared the pond, though it was first noted on this date that some of the larger ducklings were ven¬ turing farther from their mother (female #1) and were responding less to her anxious calls. 73 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 64 By July 6, female #2 was still managing to keep her six surviving duck¬ lings in tow, but the older ducklings of family #1 were scattered all about the pond, independently or in small groups. By July 14, female #1 had abandoned the pond and only seven of her ducklings, now almost fully grown, remained there. On this date female #2 remained, but her ducklings were now scattered all about the pond. At July’s end, all the Wood Ducks — adults and ducklings — had left the pond, but some interesting points may be gleaned from their having been observed: (1) The Wood Duck drake appears to have mated successfully with two females whose nestlings left their nests about three weeks apart. Only one nesting cavity in the area was located, and two Wood Duck females have been known to incubate simultaneously in the same nest (Fuller and Bolen, Wilson Bull. 74:94-95, 1963), though this was not observed here. Indeed, in one instance in Iowa (Bent, Life Histories of North American Wild Foivl, p. 162, 1923), a nest was found which contained 31 Wood Duck eggs and five Hooded Merganser eggs; thus nest-sharing has extended even to another species. Since the incubation of Wood Duck eggs require 28-30 days (Bent, Life Histories of North American Wild Fowl, p. 162, 1923), positing the successive use of this nest would require the presence of two differently-aged egg-groups in the same nest, which does not seem likely. Perhaps there was an undiscovered second nest-cavity in the area; future observations may settle this point. (2) In both instances, the drake was completely dissociated from the female and her young from the time they left the nest; indeed, he left the area entirely once his second set of offspring had hatched, the females assuming entire responsibility for the care of their young. (3) Dispersal of young ducklings in both instances began about four weeks after their hatching (when the boldest began straying from their mother’s entourage) and was completed by eight weeks after hatching, when the ducklings were completely independent in the absence of their mothers. (4) Survival of the young ducklings was remarkably good in these observations. As late as 4 weeks after hatching, when dispersal was be¬ ginning (the last time an accurate count of the young could be made), 15 of the original 16 of brood #1 were alive and well, as wrere six of brood #2’s original seven. They survived despite the known presence of predators (many large turtles, including snappers — Chelydra serpentina, were seen about the pond all summer) and the lack of protective cover in the area. Such breeding success may explain why the Wood Duck is the most numer¬ ous breeding duck in the eastern United States (Farrand, The Audubon Society Master Guide to Binding, p. 152), and gives much encouragement to hope for survival of this beautiful and remarkable avian species into the future, even in an environment so altered by human use as the Blue- grass region of Kentucky. — WENDELL R. KINGSOLVER, 200 Shepherd Hill, Carlisle, KY 40311. 1988 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 74 TAME SANDHILL CRANE VISITS IN KNOTT COUNTY In June of 1988 a Sandhill Crane, age and sex unknown, landed on a farm in northern Knott County. The farmer herded the bird into an outbuilding and notified the Corps of Engineers. Ranger Cordell Gayheart picked up the bird, then moulting, and took it to a marshy area in the Littcarr Recreation Area on Carrs Fork Lake in the southern part of the county. The bird has a transmitter on its left leg and a band on the right. Ranger Gayheart has sent the band number off but has yet heard nothing as to how the bird came to be banded. The antenna on the transmitter has been damaged since the bird’s arrival. The bird does sometimes fly about the narrow Carrs Fork Lake, but it is as tame as a chicken with visitors to the picnic spot, some of whom make special trips to bring food — chiefly bread — to the bird. Its behavior leads Ranger Gayheart to believe that it was perhaps raised in captivity and released into the wild. He has not seen any Sandhill Cranes in Knott County before, even in flight. As of October 8, the bird is still where it has been all summer and residents of the area wonder “what happens now?” -MARQUITA GILLENWATER, P.O. Box 526, Glasgow, KY 42141. NEWS AND VIEWS ANNOTATED CHECKLIST OF THE BIRDS OF KENTUCKY IS READY Just a reminder that the Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Ken¬ tucky by Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Anne L. Stamm and Brainard L. Palmer- Ball, Jr. is ready for purchase from the K.O.S. Please, make checks payable to the K.O.S. in the amount of $6.00 (5.00 for K.O.S. members) plus 5% sales tax if you are a Kentucky resident. Orders should be sent to the Kentucky Ornithological Society, 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, Kentucky 40241. CORRECTION In the field note on Short-eared Owls in the August 1988 issue of The Kentucky Warbler, 17 owls were observed on February 14, not seven. MIDWINTER BIRD COUNTS Those members who have participated in the midwinter bird counts in the past should already have received your count forms. The counts this year should be conducted between December 16 and January 3. If you are interested in conducting a count and would like additional information, please contact the editor. y1 The Kentucky Warbler ~ (Published bv the Kentucky Ornithological Society) _ VOL. 65 FEBRUARY, 1989 NO. 1 MAR '6 0 1889 IN THIS ISSUE THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1988, Anne N.Y. 14853 , MIDWINTER BIRD COUNT, 1988-1989 12 FIELD NOTES 23 NEWS AND VIEWS . 28 2 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Jim Williams, Lexington Vice-President Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Corr. Sec.-Treasurer John Krull 1108 Whetstone Way, Louisville, KY 40223 Recording Secretary Lee McNeely, Burlington Councillors: Clell Peterson, Murray Donnie Spencer, Hazard Gary Ritchison, Richmond Jeff Jones, Bowling Green Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist 1988-1990 1988- 1990 1989- 1991 1989-1991 J Fred Busroe, Morehead Evelyn Schneider, Louisville j Ray Harm | THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Organ of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, published quarterly in February, May, August and November. The KENTUCKY WARBLER is i sent to all members not in arrears for dues. Membership dues are: Active or Regular, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; i Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowden, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Herbert L. Clay, Jr. for the photograph of the Short-eared Owl taken in southern Ohio County. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1988 Anne L. Stamm The weather of the fall season of 1988 was similar throughout the state: very dry and unusually hot, particularly in August. Temperatures soared and on August 16 Paducah tied its record with 102 degrees, Lexing¬ ton set a record of 98 degrees, Owensboro recorded 101 and Louisville hit 100 breaking the previous record of 98 degrees. Rainfall finally came in November and it was the first time in 15 months that the rainfall was above normal. The warm autumn delayed migration for some species while others arrived earlier than usual. Heavy duck flights did not occur. The cormorant migration was one of the best in recent years. Hawk flights were not observed. And the shorebird mig ation was limited due to some habitat loss. Purple Finches and Pine Siskins were virtually absent and Evening Grosbeaks were not reported. Nevertheless, despite the drought, it was a rather eventful season. Abbreviations ■ — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Rallard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; KOS = Kentucky Ornithological So¬ ciety; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery; SWMA = Sauerheber Wild¬ life Management Area; Swan WMA = Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area. Loons through Cormorants — Common Loons were widespread and reported from 10 locations by nine observers. Except for the three singles reported at Cornith Lake, August 4-5, Kentucky Lake and Smithland Dam, Livingston County on August 13 and 14, respectively, they were primarily found from September 24-November 27, with maximum numbers between two and 12. Pied-billed Grebes were more widely distributed this fall, but numbers were not large. High counts included: 52 at Lake Pewee (LR), 25 to 50 in the cove near Hamlin, Calloway County (JTE), 17 at Louisville (DS), 10 at Honker Lake (LBL area — CM), 10 near Beaver Dam, Ohio County (KC, T. and B. Eaden), nine at Long Run County Park (S, P’S), and smaller numbers at Dix Dam, Mercer County (FL, WK), and Hematite Lake (LBL area — CP). Fair numbers of Horned Grebes arrived in mid-November with 85 at Louisville, November 20; 93 at Kentucky Lake, November 13 and 68 at Lake Barkley on the same date (BPB) ; and up to 50 at Hamlin, December 6 (JTE). Single birds were reported at Dix Dam, November 20 (FL, WK) and Cave Run Lake on November 5 (FB). Two American Pelicans were present at Lake Cumberland, near the mouth of Wolf Creek, October 25 (fide L. Andrews). Migration of the Double- crested Cormorant was more evident than in recent years. Thirteen ob¬ servers reported the species from 17 locations. High counts were as follows: 50 at Smithland Dam, October 1 and 2 (KOS), 36 near Wickliffe, Ballard County, October 12 (CP), 90 at Barkley Lake, October 19 (BPB, D. Yancey, L. Andrews), 46 at Hamlin in late October through November (JTE), 57 at the Falls of the Ohio, October 25 (DP), 25 along Shipping- port Island October 19 (LR), 17 at Hematite Lake October 12 (CP), and 12 at Honker Lake November 8 (CM). Sightings at other locations included: eight birds on Taylorsville Lake, Anderson County (K. Prather fide BPB) ; six in flight over I 64 at Louisville (JC) ; and singles in the following counties: Boone, Franklin, Gallatin, Hardin, Muhlenburg, Pulaski, Rowan and Union. 4 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Bitterns through Herons — Single American Bitterns were reported : one at SWMA on September 25 (BPB et al.) ; and one in Daviess County (no date given — M. Brown fide AP). A Least Bittern was still present at MCFH on September 4 (DP, BPB). Great Blue Herons were widespread all across the state. In western Kentucky the birds were scattered, due no doubt to the high water maintained in Barkley and Kentucky Lakes and low water levels in the lower Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Thus, there were no concentrations of Great Blues at Silo Overlook at Lake Barkley, where groups normally gather, in early October. A maximum of 40-65 birds was found at various places in shallow water along the rivers in Ballard, Livingston, and Carlisle counties (CP, BPB). At Dix Dam, a total of 17 birds was an “unprecedented number” there, due no doubt to low water levels (FL, WK). Great Egrets were present from August 1 through October 1, with the greatest number in Ballard and Carlisle counties. A large group of 138 was found roosting on Mitchell Lake on August 13-14 (BPB, DP) and a peak of 180 there on August 27. More than 42 were found from Back Slough south to Black Lake, Carlisle County on September 15 (CP) ; one to six at Cole Campground and Sinking Springs impoundments, Calloway County, August 12-15 (CP) ; one to four at the Falls of the Ohio from August 1 to September 21 (m. ob. ) ; and one at Dix Dam, September 20-25 (FL, WK). Snowy Egrets were reported only from western Kentucky in Ballard, Carlisle, and Fulton counties from August 14 to September 18; numbers ranged from one to 12 birds. A single Little Blue Heron was at the Falls of the Ohio on August 4 and remained through August 30 (DP), two there August 19 (BPB). Other sightings included: four at Cole Campground, August 15 (CP); 17 immatures and one adult at BWMA on August 24 (CP) ; one still there on October 1 (BPB); and a late straggler on a pond along US 60, three miles west of Morehead on October 23 established a late date (FB). An immature Cattle Egret was at the Falls of the Ohio on August 6 (BBC) ; peak counts included 70 birds with cattle near Oscar, Ballard County on August 27, and 60 near Laketon, Carlisle County on August 14 (BPB). Also, about 30 were in a field, five miles southeast of Wickliffe on August 24 (CP) ; and one at Cole Campground August 18 and 22 were the only ones reported (CP). Twelve to 25 migrant Green-backed Herons were observed at the Falls of the Ohio August 19-26 (LR, BPB) ; five to seven at Sinking Springs on August 13 (CP) ; and a high of kl birds at MCFH on September 16 (FB). Black-crowned Night-Herons peaked at the Falls of the Ohio with 115 birds on September 8 (BPB). A late bird was found below Wave Rock, Louisville on November 1 (LR). Other records of interest were: two birds at Science Hill, Pulaski County on August 16 (JE1); 12 at McNeely Lake September 1 (DP) ; an adult at Paradise Steam Plant, Muhlenberg County September 30 and a few on scattered dates on northern Lake Barkley above the dam (BPB). The only Yellow-crowned Night-Herons l-eported were the two to four at the Falls of the Ohio August 4, 6, 19 (DP, BPB). i Waterfowl — Migrant geese were slow in arriving, only 48 (47 Canada and 1 Snow) reached BWMA by the end of September (CW); a flock of 2500 Canada Geese was noted flying towards BWMA on October 12 (CP). The Canada Goose migration at BWMA occurred December 1-5, according to Charles Wilkins; 20,000 were there on December 8 and 5000 to 6000 Snow Geese (CW). Twelve Snows were also present at SWMA on November 4 (LR, KC) ; and a flock of 60 over Honker Lake (LBL area — BPB, DP, C. Justis). Other interesting records of Canada Geese included 12 at Fishing Creek, Pulaski County on October 5 (JE1) ; a maximum of 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 5 100 at Dix Dam on November 11 (FL, WK) ; and 40 flying over head near Lawrenceburg, Anderson County, November 27 (S, FS et al.) . The duck population was down from last season. Charles Wilkins, manager of BWMA, estimated that although “water levels were good to normal” there were only 3000 to 4000 ducks using the area by December 1. He estimated that 90% of the birds were Mallards, and that Blacks, Northern Pintails and diving ducks made up the other 10%. No large duck movements were noted throughout the state. Dabbling ducks were on schedule. Some 60 Wood Ducks were reported at Sinking Springs and Cole Campground on August 17 (CP). Numbers of Green-winged Teal were low except for the 60 at Lake Pewee, November 14 (JH). Seventy-five Mallards had arrived there by October 28 (JH) and 60 at Dix Dam by November 11 (FL, WK). Small flocks of 20 to 30 Blue-winged Teal were observed along the Mis¬ sissippi River in Fulton and Carlisle counties on August 28 and 29 (BPB). High counts included: 115 at MCFH on September 4, 150 to 200 at Smithland Dam, 88 at Honker Lake on October 2 (BPB) ; and 27 at the Falls of the Ohio (no date given — DP). One bird was still present at Lake Pewee on November 6 (KC, LR). Northern Shovelers were scarce. Gadwalls were reported in numbers from one to 18 birds at the following locations: Dix Dam (FL), Long Run County Park, Jefferson County (S, FS), Louisville (BPB), Lake Pewee (JH), LBL (CP), but 150 at Honker Bay on November 13 (BPB, DP, C. Justis). Three American Wigeons were present at Watson Point on Kentucky Bend, Fulton County on August 28 and one at Shawnee Steam Plant, McCracken County on August 29, while a large group of 175 was on Honker Lake, LBL on November 13 (BPB), and 70+ at LBL on November 18 (CP). Diving duck numbers were dis¬ appointing. Canvasbacks were reported from only two locations with a high count of nine at Louisville and approximately 35 at Lake Pewee on November 12 (BPB). A single Redhead was at BWMA on October 12 (CP) ; another at Freeman Lake, Hardin County on November 7 (RH) ; a “few” at Lake Pewee on November 12 (BPB) ; four at Dix Dam (FL) ; but nine at Louisville on November 1 (LR) and 35 there on November 20 (BPB). A male Ring-necked Duck at Pulaski County Park on September 10 was early (JE1) ; 177 reached Lake Pewee on October 28 (JH); and a raft of 650 there on November 4 (LR, KC) was the highest number reported. Other smaller concentrations included : 75 at Freeman Lake, November 7 (RH) ; and 120 at Honker and Hematite Lakes on November 20, 29 (CP). Single Greater Scaup were present at the Falls of the Ohio on October 25 (DP), Towhead Island at Louisville on November 10 (S, FS), and at Lake Pewee November 12 (BPB, DP). Four Lesser Scaup had arrived at the lake in Long Run County Park on October 25 (S, FS), but no large movement developed. The highest counts reported were 150 birds at Lake Pewee on November 4 (LR, KC) and more than 60 at Smithland Dam November 13 (CP). An Oldsquaw was above Smithland Dam on November 13 (BPB, DP, C. Justice). Three Surf Scoters were found on the Ohio River at Towhead Island October 22-23 (BPB) and a flock of 22 (females and/or imrnatures) on the Ohio River at Six Mile Island on October 27 (BPB, J. Bender, G. Henderson). Common Golden¬ eyes were reported from November 12-30 with only single birds at four locations, but up to five at Dix Dam (WK, FL). A fair movement of Hooded Mergansers developed with two birds in Barren County as the earliest fall migrants on October 19 (MS). The species became more numerous by early November with 17 at Lake Pewee on November 4 (LR), but 85 present at Silo Overlook on Lake Barkley November 13 and a flock of 500 on Honker Bay, November 26 (BPB). Two Common Mergansers were present on the Ohio River at Louisville on October 30 (DS) ; but 6 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol .65 a flock of 30 was at Dix Dam on November 20, where they are seldom seen (WK fide FL). None of the flock were adult males. Red-breasted Mergansers showed up on November 13 at three locations: 30 at Smithland Dam (CP, H. Chambers, S. Leedom) ; eight at Lake Pewee, 25 at Honker Bay, but 100 there on November 26 (BPB). Also, a few birds were noted with other waterfowl on the Falls of the Ohio during November. Ruddy Ducks (3) arrived at BWMA on October 12 (CP) ; eight at Lake Pewee on October 17 (JH), 48 there on November 4 (KC, LR), and peaked at 66 on November 14 (JH); and small numbers were on the Ohio River at Louisville October 27 through November (DS, DP, BPB). Hawks — A flock of 60 Black Vultures at MCFH on October 14 was the largest concentration reported (FB). Medium-sized groups of Turkey Vultures were noted at several locations: the largest concentrations were 350 near Princeton, Caldwell County November 7 (KC, LR), 70+ along the Ohio River from West Point to Brandenberg, Meade County on October 10 (DS); 58 below Smithland Dam on the Ohio River, October 2 (BPB, DP); and 53 at MCFH on October 28 (FB). Smaller groups included 30 over Science Hill on October 23 (JE1) and 25 in Barren County on Sep¬ tember 20 (MS). There were more Osprey reports this fall than usual, with one to two birds at 13 locations (m.ob.). A total of 11 Mississippi Kites (3 ad., 7 juv., 1 first-year) was observed in Fulton, Carlisle and Ballard counties from August 14 to 29 (BPB, DP with sighting in Fulton Co.). Two Bald Eagles were at Mitchell Lake, Ballard County on August 13 (DP, BPB) and again on October 21 (L. Andrews fide BPB); two adults in flight over Pulaski County Park on October 19 (JE1) ; singles at Kentucky Lake on November 13 (DP, BPB) and at two locations in IHopkins County on October 9 (JH) and November 23 (B. West fide JH); and one adult and one of undeteimined age at MCFH (FB, L. Korman). Forty Bald Eagles had arrived at BWMA by December 1 (CW). August sightings of the Northern Harrier included one at BWMA on August 27 and two in the Mississippi River bottoms of Carlisle County on August 29 (BPB). A total of 15 was tallied at a strip mining area in Ohio County on November 25 (KC, HC, Jr.) also one near Danville (FL) and two at MCFH (FB) on September 10 and November 5, respectively. There were few leports of Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks. There were no reports of Broad-winged flights submitted. Five Rough-legged Hawks appeared in a strip mining area in Ohio County on November 12 (KC, B. and T. Eaden); one in Livingston County on November 13 (BPB, DP, C. Justice) ; one in Oldham County on November 20 (BM, M. Monroe) ; and two in Clark County on November 25 (BA). A Golden Eagle, near the Ohio River in southwestern Jefferson County on October 26, was carefully studied and documented (DS). Another rarity, the Merlin, was reported on a few occasions as follows: an immature or female on SWMA, Sep¬ tember 25 (BPB, D. Ebel, A. Mullen, L. Burdine) ; an injured bird picked up in Joe Creason Park in Louisville on November 7 and turned over to the Louisville Zoo for rehabilitation; and one in Okolona, Jefferson County on November 29 was documented (DP). A Peregrine Falcon was at the Falls of the Ohio on September 16 (LR, DP) and noted again on September 23 (BPB). Other sightings included one at Indian Hills on September 17 (LR, KC) ; one near Island No. 1, Carlisle County on October 1 (BPB, DP et al.) ; and one near Greenwood in southwestern Jefferson County on November 24 ( DS ) . Gallinaceous Birds through Cranes — Four Wild Turkeys were seen in the northern end of Kentucky Bend on August 28 (BPB). An immature 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 7 Virginia Rail was flushed near a hayfield in Bedford, Trimble County on August 25 and another on September 2 (JY). Soras were again observed at SWMA with one noted on August 26 and eight on September 25 (BPB et al.) ; one still there on October 9 (BBC) ; and one in weedy growth at Watson Point on September 18 (BPB, D. Ebel). There was a good migra¬ tion of the American Coot with an unusual concentration of 2500 to 5000 in the cove at Hamlin on November 7 (JTE) ; 1800 was the high count at Lake Pewee on November 4 (LR, KC) ; 500 on Kentucky Lake and 200 on Lake Barkley on October 18 (BPB et al.) ; and 189 was the high count on the Ohio River at Louisville on October 30 (DS). Sandhill Cranes began moving south on October 22 with 110 sighted over Freeman Lake, Hardin County (RH) and 41 in eastern Jefferson County (BPB). November re¬ ports included four at SWMA on November 7 (KC) ; flock of 50 over Crescent Hill area of Louisville on November 13 (MB) and 25 in the same area the following day (TL) ; flock of 250 at BPS, Grayson County (KC, HC, Jr.) and 200+ between Danville and Perryville, Boyle County in mid- November ( fide FL). Shorebirds — Shorebird migration varied from place to place depending on available habitat. Kentucky and Barkley Lakes were too high for any flats in the usual places. Lake #9 in Fulton County was completely dried up while at Dix Dam low water level provided excellent habitat. This fall’s flight was on schedule, but there were few noteworthy concentrations and few birds lingered beyond normal departure dates. Black-bellied and Lesser Golden Plovers were scarce, with only single birds of the former- species reported from three locations: near Berkley, Carlisle County (DP, BPB), near Three Ponds, Hickman County (BPB), and at the Falls of the Ohio (LR). One to three Lesser Golden Plovers were found at the Falls of the Ohio August 6 to early October (DP, BPB). Three separate Lesser Golden Plovers were reported: one at Watson Point, one at BWMA, September 18 (BPB); and one at Dix Dam, October 2 ( FL, WK). Semi- palmated Plovers were in low numbers: 5 to 10 birds at Mitchell Lake, 10 to 15 at Kentucky Bend and at Island No. 1, August 28 and 29, respectively; singles and small groups (“up to several birds”) at the Falls of the Ohio, August 6-September 11 (BPB). Two birds were noted intermittently at Pulaski County Park from August 30 to as late as October 19 (JE1). This year there were three reports of the rare Piping Plover, all from western Kentucky: one near Island No. 1, August 14 (BPB, DP) ; one near Berkley on August 27, and one at Watson Point on August 28 (BPB). Killdeers were numerous at Dix Dam and peaked there at 300 (FL, WK), while 76 was the high count at MCFH on November 8 (FB), and 60+ was the high number at Pulaski County Pa:k on September 10 (JE1) . An American Avocet at MCFH on September 4 was unusual (BPB, DP). Greater Yellow- legs made a poor showdng, with only eight birds at Lake Pewee, November 4 (LR), the highest number reported. This species was observed regularly at Dix Dam as late as November 26 (FL, WK). Five Lesser Yellowlegs were still present at Freeman Lake on November 7 (RH). An Upland Sandpiper was seen at Barkley Dam on August 14 (DP, BPB). Single Ruddy Turnstones appeared at the Falls of the Ohio on scattered dates in late August and early September, and near Island No. 1 on August 27-29. The Red Knot at Mitchell Lake on August 29 provided Ballard County with its first record (BPB). Sanderlings appeared at the following locations: one to three birds at the Falls of the Ohio (DP, LR, BPB); singles at Dam #53 on the Ohio River and at MCFH (BPB) ; and a peak of 12 near Island No. 1 (BPB, DP); all sightings between August 1- September 24. Semipalmated Sandpipers were present in fair numbers 8 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 August 6-September 11, with peaks of 75 birds at Mitchell Lake and near Island No. 1. Two birds were observed by Beckham Bird Club members as late as October 9 at SWMA. Least Sandpipers were reported from Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, Jefferson, Mercer, and Rowan counties, with flocks of 40 and 75 at Kentucky Bend and Island No. 1, respectively; smaller numbers elsewhere. There was a fairly good flight of Western Sandpipers August 14-September 10: 12 at Mitchell Lake (BPB) ; 10-35 near Island No. 1 (DP, BPB); 5-10 at Watson Point (BPB); eight at the Falls of the Ohio (DP); one at Dix Dam (FL, WK) ; and one at MCFH (BPB). A White-rumped Sandpiper appeared at the Falls of the Ohio on September 6 (DP) and observed through September 11 (RH, BPB, D. Ebel). One to five Baird’s Sandpipers were present on various dates between August 6-September 30 at the following locations: Kentucky Bend, Island No. 1, Dam #53, Mitchell Lake, Paradise Steam Plant, Muhlenberg County, Falls of the Ohio, and MCFH (BPB, DP). The Pectoral Sandpiper was widespread and the most numerous shorebird : a peak count of 300 at Mitchell Lake, 80 at the Falls of the Ohio; 75 near Island No. 1; 63 at Dix Dam; 40 at Paradise Steam Plant and the same number at MCFH (BPB, DP, FL, WK). Smaller numbers reported at Sinking Springs and Cole Campground lakes (CP) and at Pulaski County Park (JE1). Dunlin showed up in localities from Hopkins County to Rowan County in numbers from one to eight birds (m. ob.), but a high count of 26 was noted at Fishing Creek (JE1) and 19 at MCFH (FB). Stilt Sandpipers were un¬ usually low in numbers — one to seven birds in six localities. There was a good movement of Buff-breasted Sandpipers, with a record number of 16 at Watson Point August 28 (BPB). Other sightings were: 10 birds on the Mississippi River dikefields near Island No. 1 (BPB); one at Lake #9 (BPB) ; and one to three birds at the Falls of the Ohio (DP, BPB). Short¬ billed Dowitchers were reported in low numbers (1 to 4) at six locations (CP, M. Miller, BPB, JE1). A Long-billed Dowitcher was seen and heard at Mitchell Lake on the early date of September 18 (BPB, D. Ebel) ; and one at SWMA on October 9 (BBC). Two Wilson’s Phalaropes were reported: one near Island No. 1, August 27 (BPB) ; and one at MCFH, September 4 (DP, BPB). Gulls — Three Laughing Gulls appeared in western Kentucky: a first- summer bird at Kentucky Lake, August 26-29 (BPB) ; an adult in winter plumage, below Smithland Dam, October 1-2 (KOS); and an immature (probably second-year) on Lake Barkley on October 2 (BPB). A total of six Franklin’s Gulls was reported: one each at Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley (BPB, D. Yancey, L. Andrews); two at Smithland Dam (DP, BPB, KOS); and two at Freeman Lake (RH). A single Bonaparte’s Gull returned to Smithland Dam on October 2 (KOS), but a large movement developed at Kentucky Lake, where on November 12 a total of 2504- was counted. The following evening, during a hurried check of just a portion of the gull roost, some 400-500 birds were counted (DP, BPB). It was estimated that the group probably numbered closer to 1000 birds. Also, one tc two birds were reported at Freeman Lake (RH), Pulaski County Park ( JE1 ) , and at Dix Dam (WK, FL). Twenty to 25 Ring-billed Gulls were present on the Ohio River at Louisville as early as August 6 (DP) and a similar number appeared at Kentucky Lake on August 13 (BPB, DP). Numbers increased in October and late November and high counts were: 173 at Louisville (LR) ; 130 at Dix Dam (WK, FL), 200 at Markland Dam (LMc) ; and 7500 above Kentucky Dam (BPB). As expected, due to the mild fall, only low numbers of Herring Gulls were noted at the traditional 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 9 sites; a second-year bird was present on the Ohio River at Louisville throughout August. Other rarities reported were: a first-year Thayer’s Gull below Kentucky Dam, November 12-13, 26, 27 ; another first-year bird at Smithland Dam, November 26 (RPB) ; a first-year Lesser Black- backed Gull on Kentucky Lake, October 2 (BPB, DP, KOS) ; one below the Dam on November 26-27 was probably the same bird. Terns — Five species of terns were reported; all were in low numbers, with the exception of the Black Tern. Caspian Terns were present from August 1 to September 16 with peak counts of eight birds at the Falls of the Ohio on August 30 (DP) and three birds at MCFH on September 4 (BPB) ; also a high count of seven birds at Fishing Creek Recreational Area on September 5 (JE1). Seven Common Terns were carefully studied below McAlpin Dam on August 6 (LR). There were a few reports of Forster’s Terns, with the highest number — 14 — at the Falls of the Ohio (BPB) ; six birds in winter plumage, at Big Pond Sanctuary, Novem¬ ber 21, were late (KC). One to six Least Terns (a few juvenile birds) were present August 13 to 28 mainly along the lower Ohio and Mississippi 'rivers (CP, BPB) ; a juvenile noted at the Falls of the Ohio August 19-20 (BPB, D. Ebel, Tim Love). There was a good flight of Black Terns August 6-28: 25 on the Ohio River at Louisville, 60 below Smithland Dam, and approximately 60 at Dam #53, and 25 at Hickman, Fulton County (BPB). Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — Cuckoos remain scarce. There was only one report of a Black-billed Cuckoo at McNeely Lake on September 1 (DP). A Barn Owl in the Madisonville area on September 25 was the only one reported ( fide JH). Short-eared Owls were quite conspicuous on reclaimed strip mined land in southern Ohio County, where 10 were seen in the air at one time, November 27 (KC, A. Wilson). An early date was established for the Northern Saw-whet Owl when one was observed on a rural road in Perry County, October 12 (DSp). Common Nighthawk migra¬ tion was at its peak in Boone County on August 16-23 (LMc). Flocks noted as follows: 150 passed over south Jefferson County on August 30 (DP) ; 75+ at Fishing Creek Recreational Area, September 3 (JE1) ; 75 over southwest Jefferson County on September 15 (DS) ; and 25-30 in Indian Hills, Louisville in September (no date given — KC). A Whip-poor-will was heard calling at Pulaski County Park as late as September 14 ( JE1) . A hummingbird, noted on the Falls of the Ohio on the late date of October 27, was carefully studied, and proved to be a Ruby-throated (DP). Flycatchers througth Swallows — An Olive-sided Flycatcher was ob¬ served at Surrey Hills Farm, Louisville on September 2; and one at Watson Point, September 18 (BPB, D. Ebel). An Eastern Kingbird at Creason Park on October 13 was rather late in departing (BS). At least 100 Horned Larks were present on strip mined land in Ohio County on November 12 (KC, B. and T. Eaden). A small flock of Tree Swallows was still present at Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County on October 10 (LMc) and a group of 10 lingered at MCFH on October 14 (FB). Rough-winged Swallows were present in vast numbers in western Kentucky in Ballard, Carlisle, Hickman, and Fulton counties on September 30 (DN, RN). A large flock of Bank Swallows estimated at 2000 birds was observed on a sandbar near Lake No. 9 on August 25 (BPB). Ten Cliff Swallows were still present at MCFH on September 9 (FB). 10 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Crows through Thrushes — Fair numbers of Fish Crows were sighted during August from Ballard County to Hickman County; high counts in¬ cluded: 12 near Berkley on August 14 and approximately 25 birds moving down the Mississippi River, near Island No. 1; one was still present at Kentucky Bend on September 18 (BPB). A Common Raven was reported at Cumberland Gap on September 30 (BA). Red-breasted Nuthatches were scarce; only two reports of single birds were received. Sedge Wrens were reported from four locations: a singing bird at BWMA, August 14; non¬ singing bird at Island No. 1 on August 29 (BPB) ; singing, territorial birds were present throughout August-early October at SWMA (BBC, BPB); two at Skylight, Oldham County on September 11 (LR, KC). A few Marsh Wrens were reported: one along the Mississippi River, near Island No. 1 on September 18 (BPB); two birds near Paradise Steam Plant on September 30 (DP, BPB) ; and several at SWMA, where they have been found for the past two years (BPB, A. Mullen, L. Burdine, D. Ebel). Golden-crowned Kinglets were late in arriving: one at Creason Park on October 4 was the earliest (BS); and not observed in Madison County until October 11 (GR). A Veery in the Danville area on August 25 was early for central Kentucky (FL); another was sighted at Surrey Hills Farm on September 10 (BPB). An early Swainson’s Thrush returned to the Danville area on August 25, and established an early state date (FL). Flocks of migrating American Robins were not observed in the Bedford, Trimble County area this fall (JY) and there were fewer seen in south- central Louisville (BS), where heretofore they have been numerous. The only sizable flock reported was 125+ at MCFH on October 14 (FB). An interesting note from Frederick Loetscher stated that the feature of the fall for him was “the copious, full-throated singing of robins most of November up through Thanksgiving.” A “100% albino robin” was ob¬ served in the Danville area on November 30 (WK fide FL). Pipits through Vireos — - A few Water Pipits were reported: three to seven birds near Island No. 1 on October 1 (DP, BPB et al.) 10+ at Pulaski County Park, October 19 (JE1) ; a few along Wolf Creek, Russell County, November 9, where records, if any, are few (JE1); and a few heard in late October and November at Surrey Hills Farm (BPB). A total of five Loggerhead Shrikes was reported: singles at three separate loca¬ tions in Pulaski County ( J E 1 ) ; one in Breckinridge County (KC) ; and one in the Danville area (FL). A Bell’s Vireo was still present at the Union County nesting area, discovered this summer by Alan Barron, on August 26 (BPB). Philadelphia Vireos were noted in Madison County on September 26, October 17 and 26 (GR) ; one at the Falls of the Ohio, September 21 (DP); and one at McNeely Lake, September 22 (DP). Warblers - — The warbler migration was not up to par, few major waves we e noted; best days were September 3-9 and September 26-29. One obse ver thought the migration was “better than average”; another rioted that “most warblers seemed almost nonexistent.” Nevertheless, most species were observed, but in low numbers. There were two reports of the Golden-winged Warbler: One in Carlisle County on August 27 (BPB); and one in Indian Hills on September 4 (KC). A Lawrence’s hybrid was reported at Louisville on September 2 (BPB, BBC). A few Orange- crowned Warblers arrived earlier than usual: one at the Falls of the Ohio on September 21 (DP); and three in one tree at Maceo in early October (AP). Five Northern Parulas were noted at Mammoth Cave National Park on September 29 (MS) and one present at the Falls of the Ohio as late as October 7 (DP). There was a good flight of Chestnut- 1939 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 sided Warblers in the Danville vicinity (FL). Magnolia Warblers were more numerous in Joe Creason and Clark Parks than the other migrant warblers (BS). Yellow-rumped Warblers arrived at Madisonville on September 26, where the species was “scarce”, and numbers were also below normal in the Danville area. However, good flights were noted in Grayson and Rowan counties, with a count of 50-75 birds at BPS on October 8 (KC), and a count of 200 at MCFH on October 14 (FB). There were two reports of the rare fall migrant, the Blackpoll : one in the Danville area on the early date of September 6 (FL); and one at Surrey Hills Farm on September 10 (BPB, D. Ebel). Both birds were studied carefully and at close range. A good flight of Blackburnians developed over the Danville area, but few were noted elsewhere. A Palm Warbler at the Falls of the Ohio on September 4 was fairly early (BPB). Grosbeaks through Finches — A pair of Blue Grosbeaks observed in the Maceo area, Daviess County on August 20 may have been breeding birds (AP). Two American Tree Sparrows returned to MCFH by October 14 (FB). A good sparrow migration was observed at Camp Ernst Lake on October 10; eight species were noted including Vesper and Savannah (LMc). A total of 15 Savannah Sparrows was noted at MCFH on October 14 (FB). The rare Le Conte’s at SWMA on October 9 was carefully studied by all members of the field trip (BBC). A Fox Sparrow at Clark Park, Louisville on October 11 was fairly early (BS), while in Madison County, it was not observed until October 28 (GR). Lincoln and White- crowned Sparrows returned to Madison County by September 28 (GR) and White-throated to Hopkins County on October 6 (JH). A good movement of the latter species was encountered at MCFH on October 17, where 45 were counted (FB). White-crowned Sparrows were scarce in the Louisville area. A Lapland Longspur was heard with a flock of Horned Larks on the Surrey Hills Farm on November 17 (BPB). Single migrant Bobolinks were noted at BWMA and near Three Ponds, August 27 and 28, respectively. Blackbirds were scarcely mentioned by observers. No large mixed blackbird concentrations were reported, with the exception of a flock of 4000, in east Louisville on November 7 (S, FS). A few Rusty Blackbirds returned to MCFH by November 5 (FB). There were no flights of Purple Finches; only five birds reported in the Madisonville area on November 28 (B. West fide JH) ; and one bird at Louisville on November 30 (BPB). Pine Siskins were virtually absent; one bird at Pulaski County Park on October 19 (JE1), and two at the Mayfair Basins in Louisville, October 29 (LR). No Evening Grosbeaks were reported. Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Mary B. Bauer (MB), John Callahan (JC), Kathryn Clay (KC), Herbert Clay (HC), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Joe Tom Erwin (JTE), James W. Hancock (JH), Richard Healy (RH), William Kemper (WK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Tim Love (TL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MM), Carl Mowery (CM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Robert Noonan (RN), Donald Parker (DP), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), A. L. Powell (AP), Lene Rauth (LR), Gary Ritchison (GR), Bernice Shannon (BS), Michael Sturgeon (MS), Donald Spencer (DSp), Donald Parker (DP), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson Scottie Theiss (ST), Charles Wilkins (CW), John Young (JY). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. 12 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT 1988-1989 Reports of 23 counts we:e received from across the state. A total of 117 species was recorded on count days, 102 of which are represented on the table. Those species not represented on the table include: one Snow Goose (Danville), one Osprey (Marion), one Golden Eagle (Bernheim), one Prairie Falcon (tentatively; Paradise), one American Flamingo (Bowling Green), one Oldsquaw (Land Between the Lakes), one Thayer’s Gull (Land Between the Lakes), 21 Short-eared Owls (Paradise), two Gray Catbirds (Frankfort and Perry County), one Pine Warbler (Calloway County), four Indigo Buntings (Paradise), one Chipping Sparrow (Sorgho), three Vesper Sparrows (2-Marion and 1-Yelvington ) , one Lap- land Longspur (Warsaw; 3 during count week at Paradise) and 15 Snow Buntings ( Shelbyville) . Thirteen species were recorded on all counts and 19 species were noted only on a single count. The additional sighting of a Ruffed Grouse (Perry County) during the count week brought the species total to 118 species. There were three less species this year compared with the tally last year. The average daytime temperature remained near the 40 degree mark throughout the count period with a range of 24°F to 50°F. Waterfowl variety was good, but numbers remained low. Members of several species, such as Chipping Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Gray Catbird, Pine Warbler and Indigo Bunting lingered in association with the warmer temperatures. Consistent with this notion, the number of American Robins observed on counts across the state was high. The count initiated at the Paradise strip mine area yielded some interesting birds. Twenty one Short-eared Owls and a Prairie Falcon, which would be the first record of this species in the state if confirmed, were exciting additions to the count from this area. An American Flamingo that arrived unexpectedly in Bowling Green earlier in the year, probably prodded northward from a zoo or captive population by hurricane Keith, lingered in the area until its capture and delivery to the Louisville Zoo shortly after the count period. Two American Flamingos were reported in Iowa earlier this year following the passage of hurricane Allen along the Texas coast. Although any conclusions based on census data such as these are spurious, several trends are interesting. Eastern Bluebird numbers con¬ tinue to increase. There was a total of 1427 Eastern Bluebirds reported during this year’s count compared with 1018 from last year and 787 the year before that. No large winter roosts were reported this year and numbers of blackbirds and starlings were down. There were 558 more House Finches and 352 less House Sparrows observed this year compared with last. Despite the severe drought experienced during the summer, the food supply for finches and sparrows appeared to be adequate. The mild winter weather helped reduce the impact that locally diminished food resources might have had on wintering bird populations. Thanks are sincerely extended to all participants, particulaily those who submitted verification foims for unusual sightings and those who included interesting comments about their counts. CALLOWAY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Douglas Cemetery.) Habitat 20% lake shore and streams, 20% deciduous and pine woods, 25% urban and residential and 35% pastures and open fields. Dec. 31; 5:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky heavy fog a.m., partly 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 cloudy p.m. ; temp. 24°F. to 44°F. ; wind NW, 2-5 m.p.h. Ten observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 45.5 (27.5 on foot, 18 by car). Total party- miles 413 (46 on foot, 367 by car). Total species 82; total individuals 27,638. Large flocks of robins were seen in almost every section of the count. Observers: Phyllis Brines, Wally Brines, Happy Chambers (compiler), Joe Tom Erwin, Rick Hokans, Sally Leedom, Carl Mowery, Mike Miller, Clell Peterson and Lawrence Philpot. LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Pisgah Bay Picnic Ground.) Habitat lake and stream shores 40%, deciduous and pine woods 22%, overgrown and cultivated fields 28% and residential and small business 10%. Dec. 17: 5:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy in a.m. to clear in p.m.; temp. 27°F. to 40°F. ; wind W, 8-15 m.p.h. Eighteen observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 53 (24 on foot, 29 by car). Total party-miles 419 (17 on foot, 402 by car). Total species 85; total individuals 12,192. The Thayer’s Gull is a first for the Land Between the Lakes count. The House Finches were seen in the Kutawa area in one large flock. The Oldsquaw, a drake, was seen with a group of goldeneyes (BPB) approxi¬ mately one mile south of Kentucky Dam Village. The Thayer’s Gull was north of Barkley Dam. The Wild Turkeys were in two large flocks. Observers: Wally Brines, Happy Chambers, Melissa Easley, Rick Hokans, Sharon Hutchison, Dick Marzolf, Carl Mowery (compiler), Judi Munn, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Don Parker, Clell Peterson, Lawrence and LuAnn Philpot, Ed Ray, Julie Ricketts, A1 Roth, Ken Smith and Charlotte Washburn. MARION (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Forest Grove.) Habitat river (2 miles), open cropland 50%, wooded and brushy 50%. Jan. 1; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy in a.m., clear in p.m..; temp. 36°F. to 50°F. ; wind NW, <5 m.p.h. Two observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 16 (4 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles 25 (5 on foot, 20 by car). Total species 48; total individuals 3,749. Observers: C. L. Frazer (compiler) and Jim Frazer. SORGHO (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Ky. 279-S and Audubon Parkway.) Habitat woods, fields, branches of the Green River, ditches, and feeders. Dec. 31; 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sky sunny; temp. 28°F. to 43°F.; wind 5-15 m.p.h. Thirteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 58 (46 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles 141 (23 on foot, 118 by car). Total species 47; total individuals 9,498. The Chipping Sparrow was seen by Joe Ford and Neal Hayden. Observers: Tony Eaden, Joe Ford, Neal Hayden, John Humphrey, Furman Millay, Joyce Porter, A. L. Powell, Millie Powell, Tommy Steven¬ son, Donna Wilson, Ed Wilson (compiler), Elinor Wilson and Julian Wilson. YELVINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Kentucky Highway 405 and junction at Route 662 at Yelvington, Ky.) Habitat Ohio River Bottoms, Blackford Creek bottoms, woods, roadside ditches, three lakes and feeders at Ray’s, Lacey’s and Powell’s. Dec. 17; 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 28°F. to 36°F.; wind 5-15 m.p.h. Other weather comments : windy and cold in the morning with snow flurries. Thirteen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 26 (10 on foot, 16 by car). Total party-miles 57 (12 on foot, 45 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 2,437. 14 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 The morning was cold and windy with snow flurries. The afternoon was calmer and cleared somewhat. As in the past few counts the waterfowl was missing. Carpenter’s and King fisheries lakes were searched and yielded only a grebe and two Wood Ducks. The Ohio River had no waterfowl, but yielded three Herring Gulls. Mr. Bill Perkins and Mr. T. 0. Blackburn found an immature Bald Eagle on the Ohio River near Maceo, Kentucky. We were pleased with having found 62 Eastern Bluebirds, some by each party. Robins were in large flocks at several locations. A concentra¬ tion of White-crowned Sparrows made their numbers reach 191. It was rather odd that only a single Yellow-rumped Warbler was found. In the afternoon we had only two parties in the field. Observers: T. O. Blackburn, Marty Brown, Mike Brown, Brenda Eaden, Tony Eaden, Neal Hayden, Jan Howard, Jim Howard, Bill Perkins, Joyce Porter, A. L. Powell (compiler), Millie Fowell, Marvin Ray, Maudie Ray and Dr. Bill Tyler. Also, Mr. and Mrs. Don Lacey made observations at a feeder) . HANCOCK COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Patesville.) Habitat woodland, open fields, farmland and creek bottom. Jan. 1; 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 34° F. to 37°F.; wind calm. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 6 (5 on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles 16 (6 on foot, 10 by car). Total species 25; total indi¬ viduals 88. Observers: Rose Ann Radzelovage (compiler) and Walt Radzelovage. PARADISE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at the junction of Pond Run Road and Wysox-Cool Springs Road in southern Ohio County.) Habitat 30% grasslands, 20% woodlands, 20% farmland, 20% brushy edges and fields, 10% lakes and streams. Dec. 26; 7:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy; temp. 25°F. to 40°F.; wind SE, 0-12 m.p.h. Eleven observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 28 (11.5 on foot, 16.5 by car). Total party-miles 165 (4 on foot, 161 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 2,870. This count was organized in an attempt to initiate documentation of the substantial raptor population utilizing the expansive reclaimed strip mines in southern Ohio and Muhlenberg counties. Although coverage was far from complete, impressive totals were compiled for raptors including the 40 Northern Harriers, 25 Rough-legged Hawks and 21 Short-eared Owls (all unanimously accepted by the participants as conservative totals). Nearly all participants were able to observe, albeit most only very briefly, the Prairie Falcon, which was first observed ten days prior to the count day. This individual has p oven to be relatively elusive, and leisurely study of all field marks and good photographs have not been obtained by anyone. Birders visiting the area in search of the falcon are encouraged to try to obtain photogiaphs in order to confirm this possible first state record. Other highlights of the count included 10 Great Blue Herons, a mi¬ grating flock of 48 Bonaparte’s Gulls, a Brown Thrasher, and a flock of at least four Indigo Buntings (one of only a handfull of winter records and the second for the state in winter of more than one bird). Of the 37 Red-tailed Hawks, one was a dark-phase and one was an individual of the Harlan’s race. Interesting count week birds included Black Vultures, an immature Bald Eagle and a few Lapland Longspurs. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 15 This unique area deserves much ornithological attention, and birders are encouraged to explore more of the surrounding areas. It is inevitable that additional noteworthy ornithological occurrences will be discovered here if more investigation is undertaken. The presence of other raptors should be investigated including Long-eared and Saw-whet owls in pine and cedar thickets, as well as Snowy Owls in the open grasslands. Observers: Mike Brown, Tony and Brenda Eaden, Diane Ebel, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (Compiler), Joyce Porter, Bert and Millie Powell, Doralee St. Clair and Scottie Theiss. BOWLING GREEN (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Three Springs, six miles south of Bowling Green.) Habitat deciduous forests 20%, fields and pastures 70% and town and parks 10%. Dec. 17; 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 29°F. to 36°F. ; wind NW, 5-12 m.p.h. Ponds were frozen. Seven observers in 2 parties. Total party- hours 14 (11 on foot, 3 by car). Total party-miles 84 (8 on foot, 76 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 2,986. The American Flamingo has been in this area for a month and several attempts have been made to capture it. Observers: Lloyd Curry, Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, Wayne Mason, Bill Mathes, Ruth Mathes and H. E. Shadowen (compiler). MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK (center and habitat as de¬ scribed in 1980.) Dec. 18; 7:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 19°F. to 45°F. ; wind SW, 10-15 m.p.h. Three observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 12 (8.5 on foot, 3.5 by car). Total party-miles 73.5 (8.5 on foot, 65 by car). Total species 41; total individuals 1,799. Observers: Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Wayne Mason, Herb E. Shadowen. GLASGOW (center and habitat as described in 1986.) Dec. 30; 6:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sky heavily overcast throughout the day; temp. 29°F. to 43°F. ; wind NW, 0-5 m.p.h. There was intermittent drizzle throughout the afternoon. Nine observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 43.75 (25.50 on foot, 18.25 by car). Total party-miles 142 (14 on foot, 128 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 3,363. Observers: Mrs. O. L. Follis, Marquita Gillenwater, Mr. and Mrs. Howard M. Jones, Wayne M. Mason (compiler), Mr. and Mrs. Todd Moore, and Dr. and Mrs. Russell R. Starr. HART COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Craddock Road and Gerald Lane.) Habitat ponds, river, woodland and farmland. Dec. 30; 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 29°F. to 43°F. ; wind calm. Five observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 14 (9.5 on foot, 4.5 by car). Total party-miles 87 (10 on foot, 77 by car). Total species 49; total individuals 2,172. Observers: J. D. Craddock, III, Steve Kistler (compiler), Cap Middle- ton, Mitchell Sturgeon and Charles Wuertzer. OTTER CREEK PARK (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 22%, woodlands 34%, farmland 30%, ponds, creeks and river 14%. Dec. 17; 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sky cloudy to clear; temp. 27°F. to 29°F. ; wind NW, 10-22 m.p.h. Occasion¬ al snow flurries between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. Ten observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 32.5 (15.5 on foot, 17 by car). Total party -miles 198 (14 on foot, 184 by car). Total species 48; total individuals 2,707. 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CO LU X < Z CD O LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE EUROPEAN STARLING 5859 1165 650 3025 350 1 448 300 24 495 1082 753 1392 21775 1739 2198 417 6727 5538 399 863 1 YELLOW-R. WARBLER 3 12 1 7 9 63 18 6 132 83 6 58 15 30 5 13 NORTHERN CARDINAL . 185 142 200 92 166 10 47 92 8 120 47 72 238 901 77 311 81 214 137 143 128 1 197 RUFOUS-S. TOWHEE 59 50 8 9 14 3 8 15 4 15 5 3 65 96 10 23 6 2 3 9 1 17 c\iina>T-o: LU Q ^ CO '.HI . =) O DC LU DC T- T- O cm m cm a> Q ic DC O CD O cn to m ? 2 > uj ^ CD > CO O O cn DC cc O < CD W Observed during the count period, but not on the count day. 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 The wind was strong and picked up around 11 o’clock and continued throughout the day, with gusts of 22 m.p.h. All ponds were frozen, but running water was open. This was one of the poorest counts in years. Birds were scarce. Waterfowl and hawks were practically absent. Drought conditions were obvious and the food crop for sparrows and finches was below average. The Great Blue Heron is seldom found on this count, but six birds were observed. The Ring-billed Gull count — 47 — was our highest count for this species. Red-bellied Woodpeckers were in lower numbers than last year while Pileated Woodpeckers were in higher num¬ bers. Sparrows were scarce in species and numbers. White-throated and White-crowned Sparrows continued to decline in numbers. Observers: Mary B. Bauer, John Krull, Doxie Noonan, R. T. Noonan, Helga Schutte, Tony Smith, Anne Stamm (compiler), Frederick W. Stamm, Scottie Theiss, Steve Washburn. BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974.) Jan. 2; 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 33°F. to 39°F.; wind N-NW, 0-10 m.p.h. Intermittent drizzle. Eighteen observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 46.5 (25.5 on foot, 21 by car). Total party-miles 229.5 (7.5 on foot, 222 by car, plus 2 hours owling). Total species 64; total individuals 7,402. Weather conditions were not favorable for the observation of vultures and hawks, accounting for the lack of diversity and numbers. Wild food crops appeared to be good. Totals for numbers of species and individuals were about average. The most noteworthy highlight was the immature Golden Eagle, observed on a deer carcass along Wilson Creek where the species has been seen in past years (DP, LS). According to Charles Mc¬ Clure, Forest Manager, there are small numbers of both species of eagles in this area every winter, apparently attracted by the number of deer carcasses. Other interesting observations included the Eastern Phoebe, a near record number of Eastern Bluebirds (203 compared with an all-time high of 204 in 1975-1976) and Cedar Waxwings (616 compared with an all-time high of 661 in 1979-1980), and record numbers of American Robins (1053 compared with a previous high of 819 in 1984-1985) and House Finches (a whopping 240 compared with a previous high of four in 1986- 1987!). Conspicuous by their absence on a count that often tops the state for the species were Red-breasted Nuthatches. Observers: Mary Bill Bauer, Bob Brown, Wayne Dahl, Diane Ebel, Arthur Figg, Janet Gebler, George Jones, Judi Jones, Tim Love, P. K. and Etta Martin, Joan Noel, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (com¬ piler), Donald Parker, Martha Pike, Tony Smith, Larry Sparks. LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center jet. Hwys. 42 and 22, as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 18; 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky clear in a.m., overcast in p.m.; temp. 19°F. to 57°F.; wind SW-W, 0-20 m.p.h. Ponds and lakes partly frozen. Forty observers in 16 parties. Total party-hours 127 (64 on foot, 63 by car). Total party-miles 696 (67 on foot, 629 by car). Total species 89; total individuals 36,088. Observers: Garrett Adams, Mary Bauer, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Don Blackburn, K. W. Clay, Donna Coates, Muriel Doolittle, Diana Ebel, S. A. Figg, Katy Fulkerson, D. C. Garst, Wayne Hinkle, Frank Krull, Jr., Frank Krull, Sr., John Krull, Tim Love, Barbara McFarland, Jim McFarland, B. L. Monroe, Jr. (compiler), Mark Monroe, K. C. Mudd, Dot Muntan, Doxie Noonan, J. R. Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Donald Parker, 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 21 Robert Patrick, Martha Pike, Bob Quaife, Lene Rauth, V. C. Rommel, Carl Schultz, Helga Schutte, L. D.. Smith, Anne Stamm, F. W. Stamm, Midge Susie, Scottie Theiss, Steve Washburn, (Beckham Bird Club). SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center .75 miles south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on Ky. Highway 714.) Habitat elevation 640'-1190', farm land, fallow land, residential, wooded and grassland. Jan. 1; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky overcast and foggy; temp. 34°F. to 46°F.; wind N, 5-12 m.p.h. Six observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 10 (0.5 on foot, 9.5 by car). Total party-miles 210 (0.5 on foot, 209.5 by car). Total species 46; total individuals 3,434. Observers: Leslie Brown, Todd Brown and W. H. Brown (compiler), J. C. Higgins, Frank Longley and Iris Snyder. FRANKFORT (center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 18; 7:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy to partly cloudy; temp. 17°F. to 34°F.; wind SW, 7-15 m.p.h. Trace of snow on frozen ground, ponds frozen, streams open. Thirteen observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 48 (22.5 on foot, 25.5 by car). Total party-miles 281.5 (18.5 on foot, 263 by car). Total species 60; total individuals 8,209. This count has a noticeable paucity of raptors, both in terms of numbers of individuals and species. Only Red-tailed Hawks and American Kestrels were found and these were in lower numbers than usual. One feeder watcher reports an American Kestrel is often at her feeder taking small birds, so there may be an actual food shortage. On a more positive note, there is an abundance of wild fruits, such as red cedar cones, hack- berry, poison ivy, honeysuckle and bitter sweet which is holding large flocks of American Robins and Cedar Waxwings in our area. Blue Jays are numerous, feeding on the abundant acorn crop. Except for a late- lingering Gray Catbird, other species seem representative. House Finches continue their unprecedented increase. Observers: Charles Bowers, W. H.. Brown, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Howard Jones (compiler), Jeff Jones, Robert Morris, Ken Rollins, Debbie and Tim Williams, Jim Williams. KLEBER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (center and habitat as described in 1977.) Dec. 26; 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Partly cloudy; temp. 26°F. to 48°F.; wind E, 5-15 m.p.h. Streams open and full, some ice on ponds. Four observers in 2-4 parties. Total party-hours 24.5 (13.5 on foot, 11 by car). Total party-miles 122 (12 on foot, 110 by car). Total species 44; total individuals 2,351. This is a good count for the Owen County area that we census. Most expected species were found in usual numbers with the exception of raptors. Only Red-tailed Hawks and American Kestrels were seen and their num¬ bers were low. A Wild Turkey had been seen leaving its roost the morning of our count at Kleber by a hunter we encountered. Wild Turkeys were introduced at Kleber a few years ago and apparently have become estab¬ lished according to reports. Observers: Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Howard Jones (compiler but not participant), Daryl Michael and Tim Towles. LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman Church and Tates Creek Road.) Habitat farmland and residential. Dec. 17; 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 26°F. to 35°F.; wind E, 10-35 m.p.h. Thirty-five observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 76 (26 on foot, 50 by car). Total party-miles 278 (18 on foot, 260 by car). Total species 81; total individuals 16,346. 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol .65 Observers: Brad Andres, Sarah Andres, Mary Barr, Earl Boggs, Ann Bradly, Eugene Bradly, Skip Call, Rose Canon, Manton Cornett, Ruth Davis, Edward DeMoll, Margy DeMoll, Ron Duncan, Harold Faulconer, Jean Flynn, Mike Flynn, Johnathan Glixon, Ginnie Guthrie, Terri Koontz, Betty Maxson, Robert Morris (compiler), Carol Pickett, Glenn Raliegh, Nikki Rothwell, Ed Seiler, Lewis Shain, Jo Stofer, Marie Sutton, Dave Svetich, Andrew Uterhart, Marion Uterhart, Glen Wells, Tim Williams, Jim Wilson and Bernice Woods. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat 23% water/edge, 6% urban, 7% cultivated, 35% field/fence, 23% woodland edge, and 6% feeder. Dec. 17; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy to partly cloudy; temp., 20°F. to 30°F.; wind NW, 5-15 m.p.h. Twenty-eight observers in 8 parties. Total party-hours 137.50 (47.25 on foot, 90.25 by car). Total party-miles 830.50 (47.25 on foot, 783.25 by car). Total species 71; total individuals 15,675. Observers: Bob Corcoran, Lois Corcoran, Naomi Cox, Andy Eklund, Neil Eklund (compiler), Scott Eklund, Virginia Eklund, Tobin and Mrs. Tom Foster, John Gower, JoAnn Hamm, Mike Hamm, Morton Hoaglund, Bill Johnston, J. W. Kemper, Chuck Kohler, F. W. Loetscher, Dan Mac¬ Donald, Dwayne Maddox, Jack Newton, John B. Nichols, Herb Petijean, Margaret Rinstidt, Joe Russell, Chris Strecker, Charles Vahlkamp, Maynard VanHorn and Greg Wagner. BURLINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Camp Michaels near Union, Ky.) Habitat woodland and forest edge 30%, farmland and fields 30%, streams and river 35% and residential 5%. Dec. 17; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 22°F. to 24°F.; wind W, 10-15 m.p.h. There was 0.3 inches of snow. Twelve observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 33 (10 on foot, 18 by car, 5 by boat). Total party-miles 248 (7 on foot, 235 by car, 6 by boat). Total species 54; total individuals 2,571. Waterfowl were well represented this year, while overall numbers of birds were somewhat low, particularly raptors. The highlight was the sighting of an adult wing-tagged immature Bald Eagle near Big Bone by the Caminiti party. Observers: Brenda Bellamy, Joe Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Elaine Carroll, Lonnie Fields, Darlena Graham, Carolyn Johnson, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (compiler), Chuck Schneider, Carmen Schulte, and Tommy Stephens. Feeder watchers were Pat Carroll, Marjorie Hill and Lynda McNeely. WARSAW (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Warsaw Courthouse.) Habitat river shore 35%, open field and farmland 30%, woodland and forest edge 30% and residential 5%. Dec. 31; 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 26°F. to 41°F.; wind SW, 5-10 m.p.h. Heavy fog during the morning hours. Five observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 24.5 (9 on foot, 15.5 by car). Total party-miles 264 (3.5 on foot, 260.5 by car). Total species 59; total individuals 3,181. The Lapland Longspur was identified by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. in a flock of Horned Larks. The Bald Eagle was a wing-tagged immature found at the Craig’s Creek Marina and may have been the same bird found on the Burlington count. Gull numbers were determined by a count of their evening roost. Observers: Joe Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Lee McNeely (compiler), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Tommy Stephens. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 PERRY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Grapevine Creek.) Habitat deciduous woodlands, fields and reclaimed surface mines. Dec. 31; 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky sunny; 30°F. to 50°F; wind calm. Very pleasant day. One observer in 1 party. Total party-hours 6 (5 on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles 25 (5 on foot, 20 by car). Total species 25; total indiviluals 130. Observer: Don Spencer (compiler). WEST LIBERTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 37, 55' N; 83, 15' W.) Habitat woods, open fields, roadways, river bottoms. Jan. 2; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky morning overcast, clearing in p.m.; temp. 22°F. to 32°F. ; wind 0 m.p.h. Dense fog until 12:30 p.m. Four observers in 2 parties (one at feeder). Total party-hours 12 (8 on foot, 4 by car). Total party-miles 60 (12 on foot, 48 by car). Total species 42; total individuals 880. ‘ One observer was at a home feeder. Four hours were spent owling. Observers: Garry Lee Elam (compiler), Mary K. Elam, Orville Litteral and Francis Peyton. FIELD NOTES A UNIQUE HABITAT FOR RAPTORS IN SOUTHERN OHIO COUNTY Owls have always fascinated me. And so I was impressed with the number of Short-Eared Owls ( Asio flammeus) that Brenda and Tony Eaden had reported seeing in February and early March, 1988 {Ky Warbler, Vol. 64, pg. 50). Since this location in Southern Ohio County is so close to our property at Falls of the Rough, Kentucky 1 decided to investigate the area further because I was interested in discovering the fall arrival dates of the Short-Eared Owls. I called the Eadens and together we visited the area on November 12. I was impressed with the habitat which is a reclaimed strip mine area owned by the Peabody Coal Company. The area consists of approxi¬ mately 300 acres of rolling, hilly country with various types of grasses. The hills are terraced to prevent erosion. Rectangular bales of straw are staked on the hillsides which also have horizontal ditches to impede erosion. Ditches that have washed vertically have been filled with large crushed stone. In the valleys are areas that contain water and marshy land. There are several lakes surrounding this acreage. On the surface of the hills are scattered shrubby growth. In the distance are tall second growth trees. On November 12 the Eadens and I found no Short-Eared Owls but were surprised to find a Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos ) that flew directly over our car. Our next exciting bird was larger than a Kestrel, had pointed shaped wings, buffy-colored and streaked body. It was lighter than an im¬ mature Peregrine Falcon (Falco perigrinus) . We discussed the fact that this bird could possibly have been a Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) but without a state record we thought that better observations and, possibly a photograph, would be needed to substantiate this record. Although I have seen Prairie Falcons in Illinois, Indiana, and more recently (January, 1988) in Arizona I did not feel that we had an adequate look to definitely 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 identify it. My husband, who photographs birds, plans to “capture” this bird on film. It was of special interest to find five Rough-legged Hawks (Buteo lagopus), of which one was a dark phase, six Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jarnaicensis) and four Northern Harriers (Circus cyaneus). All four Harriers were males. On November 25, Dr. Herbert Clay and I went to this area and ob¬ served two Short-Eared Owls at 4:45 C.S.T. At approximately the same time we watched 15 Northern Harriers circling a tall grassy area and, one by one, they dropped into the grass. We stayed at least thirty minutes longer and they never appeared again. Of these 15 Harriers six or eight were males. On November 27, despite rain and drizzle, Alita Wilson joined me on a visit to the area. We arrived about noon and soon found 10 to 15 Short- Eared Owls flying over the area, perched on bales of straw, on large boulders or hidden in the tall grass. We heard them making their “hissing and quacking” calls whenever an intruder hawk or owl came near. One Short-Eared Owl, on two occasions, flapped its wings together under its body and then flew very high in the sky. As far as I know this is the largest concentration to be reported. Robert M. Mengel, in his Birds of Kentucky, 1965, page 281, mentions that he saw nine or 10 Short-Eared Owls in Eastern Jefferson County late in October of 1933. Since this present large number of owls was found I felt that I would like to share it with others and so I initiated a bird alert. Eighteen people arrived and were delighted to see, on Saturday, December 3, such a large concentration of raptors in such a small area. We also saw Red¬ tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, Rough-legged Hawks and American Kestrels. I have subsequently visited this place many times and with each visit I have been rewarded with good numbers of raptors. Since my husband and I are spending more time at Big Pond Sanctuary near this site, I am planning, with the Eadens, to study this area and hope to learn more about the habits of these birds of prey. In addition to the interesting raptors, the nearby lakes attract hundreds of geese and ducks. Land birds are also of interest, especially the Horned Larks ( Eremophila alpestris ) , which may be a source of food for some of these species. — MRS. HERBERT L. CLAY, JR., 434 Mallard Creek Road, Louisville 40207. FIRST RECORD OF A SELASPHORUS HUMMINGBIRD IN KENTUCKY Over the past ten years, there has been a dramatic increase in the popularity of feeding hummingbirds in the eastern United States. As a result of this trend (either wholly or in part), there has been a substantial increase in the number of records for vagrant western hummingbird species, most notably members of the genus Selasphorus, and in particular the Rufous Hummingbird (S. rufus). In the 1980’s nearly all states surrounding Kentucky have had reports of Selasphorus hummingbirds. Most positively identified individuals have proven to be of the widespread western species of the northern Rockies, the Rufous Hummingbird. However, a small per¬ centage of positively identified birds have turned out to be other species including the Allen’s Hummingbird (S. sasin), which is generally in¬ distinguishable from the Rufous in the field. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 25 The typical pattern of occurrence of these vagrants is for occasional birds (usually adult males) to show up in August or September followed by larger numbers (usually immatures) from late September into November. In addition, it is not uncommon for an individual to remain at a feeder once it has arrived, even after our numerous Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (Archilochus colubris) have departed for the wintering grounds. A vast majority of these vagrants are immatures, which are not noticeably dif¬ ferent in appearance from female and immature Ruby-throated Humming¬ birds at first glance. For this reason, it is suspected that at least some are overlooked, and it is even possible that most huznmers reported after the middle of October are immature Selasphorus. Fall hummingbirds should always be scrutinized with the possibility of these rarities in mind, especially after the first of October. During 1987, unusual numbers of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were reported in the Louisville area into the latter half of October, and birds were observed at several locations as late as the 25th. One of these was the yard of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Williams of Jeffersontown, an eastern suburb of Louisville. As of mid-October, there were still at least a couple of hummers the Williams’ assumed to be Ruby-throateds regularly visiting the feeders in their yard. When the end of the month rolled around, a single hummer was still present. It remained in the area through November and into late December, and on Christmas Eve 1987, in a quandary as to what to do about their faithful visitor and the impending cold weather, Mrs. Williams called the Louisville Zoo who referred her call to me. Immediately upon hearing their predicament, I went over to the Williams’ home and within several minutes, as I had suspected, I was observing Kentucky’s first reported Selasphorus hummer. The bird was consistent in every way with immatures of the very similar Rufous and Allen’s hummingbirds. The back, nape and crown were a golden-green, with the upper tail coverts sparsely spotted with rufous feathers. The underparts were whitish with a strong buffy or rufous wash on the flanks and undertail coverts. The throat was streaked with darkish markings and dotted with an occasional dark feather. The wings were blackish and the rectrices were rather short with bright rufous color seemingly on all and obvious white tips on the outer three pairs. The legs and bill were dark. The bird frequently gave a sharp ‘chip’ note characteristic of this group, a call that I became quite familiar with four years ago when a similar bird appeared in southern Indiana. The combina¬ tion of these characters eliminated the Broad-tailed Hummingbird (S. platycerus) from consideration, but identification remained inconclusive because of the subtleties in distinction between Rufous and Allen’s. This identification is usually based on measurements of the widths of several tail feathers since the two species are generally indistinguishable in the field. Even adult males can be difficult to identify, as some male Rufous Hummingbirds have greenish backs. The only readily identifiable birds are adult male Rufous Hummingbirds with entirely rufous backs or immature males with rufous-colored feathers on the upper back (B. Peterjohn/N. Newfield, pers. comm.). Over the course of the following weeks, many people were able to view this rare wanderer, and much discussion surrounded its predicament. At the suggestion of Mrs. Williams, it was decided to leave the bird in a natural state and hope for the best. Vitamin and protein supplements were obtained from a local veterinary supply store to add to the bird’s sugar water, and additional cover in the form of several small pine trees were placed near the feeders for the bird. 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Based on several conversations with Nancy Newfield, who has had extensive experience with wintering hummingbirds in Louisiana, I expected the bird to succumb quickly to the winter’s frigid tempeiatures, but wth Mrs. Williams’ persistence and care, the bird survived three spells of single digit temperatures and several light snows into early February. On Febru¬ ary 5, 1988, the bird was at the feeders nearly the entire day as a fourth onslaught of cold weather bore down on the Ohio Valley. On the morning of February 6, the bird did not return to feed, and presumably it finally was not able to sustain its metabolism overnight. Several aspects to these observations are noteworthy. First, it appears that the bird was in the process of overwintering when it disappeared. Even though the temperatures were well below optimal for the bird, it remained in the vicinity rather than move on in October or November. This is a tendency that has been observed in numerous locations in the south¬ eastern U.S. Secondly, the bird was able to withstand tempeiatures sub¬ stantially colder than temperatures that have decimated hummingbird populations in southern Louisiana, where a prolonged period of subfreezing weather killed most birds on at least one occasion (N. Newfield, pers. comm.). This individual survived three different spells of overnight tem¬ peratures in the single digits (lowest being 2°F.) and several days of no higher than 15°F, with clouds and light breezes. During the coldest period in January, temperatures remained at or below freezing for nine straight days, with highs in the hi-teens and lows in the single digits for three straight days during the worst! How this tiny mite was able to survive such extremes is unclear, but it is certain that without the sugar water and supplements, this bird would not have lasted as long. One would think that the bird would have had to feed incessantly, relying on the supply of sugar water for food while enduring the cold temperatures, but typically it fed only once every fifteen minutes in all but the coldest of weather, and it was often absent from the feeders and even the yard for long periods, even in subfreezing temperatures. On warmer, sunny days, Mrs. Williams noticed that the bird busily foraged for insects throughout the yard for long periods. It might be worthwhile to mention that the ethical question of attract¬ ing these hummers to feeders in the eastern U.S. where they are likely to perish has been the subject of much discussion over the past few years. Really, it appears that the matter is one of little consequence. By the time these vagrant birds have reached our area to find a hummingbird feeder, their fate has long since been determined. The attraction of our feeders to these wanderers really does nothing more than call our attention to the plight of this small percentage of birds that may be born with a faulty directional instinct. It appears that these birds simply migrate in the wrong direction, and when their migratory “urge” ceases sometime in October or November, they are “stuck” wherever they have ended up. Without artificial food sources, these birds would likely perish long before winter’s icy grip was upon us. Also, it is unlikely that by allowing one of these vagrants to persist into or survive a winter in the eastern U.S., we are laying the groundwork for this tendency to increase in the popula¬ tion as a whole. For every hummer that finds a feeder in the eastern U.S., there are probably many more that perish before they are able to find such a reliable food source. According to Newfield, returns of banded hummingbirds over more than one winter in Louisiana are not unknown, but of hundreds of birds now banded, only a handful have returned in successive years. This, in itself, would tend to suggest that most of these individuals either die or go in a more normal direction the following year. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 Also, many people worry that by leaving out a hummingbird feeder into October they are at risk in keeping a Ruby-throated Hummingbird around later than it should stay, but this theory is unfounded. Sooner or later they depart, whether it be in mid-September or late October. This is like trying to keep Evening Grosbeaks around in summer by continuing to put out sunflower seeds — sooner or later they all leave to go north ! There is not a single documented record of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird failing to depart in the fall because of an attraction to a feeder at our latitude. In fact, reliable winter records of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Louisiana are quite rare, even though most could survive the average winter there. So it would seem that one need not worry about leaving out a hummingbird feeder in the fall until all interested hummers have departed. This represents the first documented record of a Selasphorus hum¬ mingbird for Kentucky, although two November records referred to as Ruby-throated in the literature may well pertain to this group or other western vagrant species (see Monroe, et al. 1988. Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky , pp. 34-35). As a matter of coincidence, it should be noted that the Selasphorus hummingbird wasn’t the only unexpected visitor to the Williams’ yard during the winter of 1987-88. An Orange-crowned Warbler (V ermivora celata) visited their sugar water feeders daily from January 3 to March 10, even after the hummer had disappeared. When the bird first appeared, it had an injured foot and was holding one wing in an abnormal posture as if it was injured or broken although it appeared to fly well. By late February it was looking better and must be presumed to have successfully overwintered. Although this species is not uncommon along the Gulf coast in winter and has been observed frequenting sugar water feeders in other areas, this represents the fourth winter record for Kentucky and the first to be observed frequenting an artificial food source. This individual was very brightly colored with a strong yellowish wash to its underparts and a vivid greenish back, and it is possible that it represented one of the western subspecies, making its occurrence in Kentucky, easily as note¬ worthy as the hummingbird’s. I would like to thank Nancy and Paul Newfield and Bruce Peterjohn for their review of this manuscript and many helpful comments. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222. UNUSUAL UTILIZATIONS OF CAVE ENTRANCES BY EASTERN PHOEBES The Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe) is a fairly common to com¬ mon transient and summer resident in Kentucky. The species nests under both artificial and natural ledges including bridges, building eaves, rock outcrops and cave entrances. In addition, a few phoebes are regularly recorded in the state in winter, usually found along protected streams and lake margins where they presumably are able to subsist on emerging aquatic insects. During cave inventory work over the past few years, phoebe nests have been found in virtually every moderately large cave entrance investigated. In addition, two very interesting observations have been made. On the evening of 2 December 1987, Palmer-Ball, MacGregor, Bill Hendricks, Tim Towles and David Yancy visited Blowing Cave along Buck 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Creek in eastern Pulaski County. We arrived at the cave at approximately 8:30 p.m., some three hours after sunset. Air temperature was approxi¬ mately 35° F. and warm air was rising out of the cave entrance. As we entered the cave we were surprised to find an Eastern Phoebe roosting on a used phoebe nest a few feet inside the entrance and well within the warm air current. The bird was frightened from the nest by our lights, and it flew out of the cave where it settled into a nearby tree. While phoebes are known to commonly use the entrances of caves for nesting during summer, this appears to be the first documented occurrence of the species using a cave as a winter roosting site in Kentucky. Such accounts are not apparent in the literature, and it is unknown whether or not this behavior has been observed in other areas. The warm air in leaves would seem to present a logical attraction to such a species, and it would not be surprising to see this occurrence more often. Earlier on the same day, we found a phoebe nest in an unusual loca¬ tion in the vicinity of Cave Creek in southern Pulaski County. The nest was located on a small ledge in a vertical cave opening of appreximate.y six feet in diameter that opened to the surface at the top of a woodland slope and dropped straight down approximately thirty feet into a large room. The nest was located approximately eight to ten feet beneath the entrance on the forest flood. Thus, in order for the bird to reach the nest, it had to drop down ‘swift-like’ into the cave entrance some eight to ten feet ! — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission, 407 Broadway, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, and JOHN R. MacGREGOR, Kentucky Dept, of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Nongame Wildlife Program, #1 Game Faim Road, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. SPRING MEETING The Spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held at Barren River State Park on April 28-30. Be sure to make your reservations for room accommodations early. Mark the dates on your calendar and plan to enjoy good birding with good friends. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact the Program Chairperson, Virginia Kingsolver, Route 1, Carlisle, Ken¬ tucky 40311. TAX TIME, A TIME TO HELP! Help protect Kentucky’s endangered species and the natural areas in which they live. Remember to contribute to the Nongame Wildlife/ Natural Areas Fund on your Kentucky tax form. This fund is divided equally between the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources’ Nongame Program. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 65 MAY, 1989 NO. 2 IN THIS ISSUE THE WINTER SEASON, 1988-1989, Anne L. Stamm 31 FOOD HABITS OF KENTUCKY OWLS, Robert K. Brown . 38 SUMMARY OF ICELAND GULL RECORDS IN KENTUCKY, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. . 48 THE K.O.S. SPRING MEETING, Lee McNeely 50 NEWS AND VIEWS . 52 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson Jim Williams, Lexington Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle . John Krull 1108 Whetstone Way, Louisville, KY 40223 Lee McNeely, Burlington President Vice-President Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Recording Secretary Councillors: Clell Peterson, Murray Donnie Spencer, Hazard Gary Ritchison, Richmond Jeff Jones, Bowling Green Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist . 1988-1990 1988- 1990 1989- 1991 1989-1991 Fred Busroe, Morehead Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Phillipe Roca for the photogi’aph of the Spotted Sandpiper. 1989 31 nil THE KENTUCKY WARBLER THE WINTER SEASON, 1988-89 Anne L. Stamm The weather for the winter season (December-February) was unusually warm for the most part. In fact, the temperature averaged 9.1 degrees above normal in Louisville for the month of January, and was the warmest January since 1950, according to the National Weather Service. The first few days of February were more like April weather as the thermometer hit a high of 66 degrees at Louisville on February 1. However, on February 6 a cold front moved in and Covington reported the coldest overnight low in the state at 9 degrees. Other lows included 11 degrees at Paducah, 14 at Lexington and Bowling Green, 11 at Louisville and 25 at London. This change in the weather pattern brought icy conditions for a few days, and land birds began coming to feeding stations all across the state. Less than an inch of snow fell during the period. The cold spell was short-lived since on February 11 the temperature was back to a high of 51 degrees. Despite the warm weather a number of rarities were recorded such as the Tundra Swan, Prairie Falcon, Thayer’s Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, and Black-legged Kittiwake. Also, a large number of Northern Har¬ riers and Short-eared Owls was recorded. It was an interesting season. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; CBC = Christmas Bird Count; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; KDFWR = Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Loons through Herons — A few Common Loons lingered into January with three present at the Lexington Reservoir, Fayette County on January I (BA) ; one at Hamlin, Calloway County on December 8 to January 3 (CP) ; and one as late as January 28 at Lake Pewee, Hopkins County (BBC, KC). There were fewer Pied-billed Grebes in late December than during the same period last year. Small numbers, however, did winter at Wysox Lake, southern Ohio County and at Lake Pewee (KC, AW, and JH, respectively). As many as ± 100 Horned Grebes remained at Boyd’s Branch on the west side of Kentucky Lake, north of Hamlin during early December, but numbers decreased during the month and only 12 were observed on January 4 (CP, JTE) ; one was still present on Honker Bay of Lake Barkley in LBL on January 22 (BPB) and two on the Falls of the Ohio area, Jefferson County on February 5 (DP). A single Double- crested Cormorant was present at MCFH on December 22 (FB) ; nine to II lingered along the Ohio River at Louisville and Shippingport Island, Jefferson County during December and January (m. ob.), with nine still present on January 25 (LR) ; two at Honker Lake in LBL on January 25- March 1 (CP) ; and an immature bird remained at Wysox Lake throughout the period and was last seen on February 26 (KC). Great Blue Herons were fairly common in western Kentucky, but widely scattered, probably due to the high water. The birds were found along lakes, ditches, rivers, and ponds and almost never more than one to three in any location (CP). Other sightings were: four along the Ohio River in Meade County on December 17, where they are seldom seen during the winter months (HS, S, FS) ; 10 below McAlpine Dam on January 25 (LR) ; five at Wvsox 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Lake on January 28 (KC, BBC) ; one there on February 12 (KC, AW) ; up to 17 per day at Dix Dam, Mercer County (FL, WK) ; and one wintered at BPS, Grayson County (KC). A single Black-crowned Night-Heron was seen at Shipping-port Island as late as December 10 (S, BBC) ; and two were reported on the Louisville CBC, December 18. Swans through Geese — Two Tundra Swans visited Dix Dam, Mercer County on January 8 and 9 (WK and FL, respectively), and up to eight Mute Swans were on the Wysox Lake in early December (BPB). Five Greater White-fronted Geese were observed at BWMA, Ballard County during the period (CW) ; and “local residents perfectly described” one with Snow Geese near BWMA on February 11 ( fide BPB). The goose popula¬ tion at BWMA peaked at 70,000 in late December (CW). Snow Geese peaked at 15,000 at BWMA (CW) ; and the 5-10,000 that were on private land just off BWMA on February 12 may have been part of the BWMA flock (BPB, DP, DE). Also, 11 were seen at Wysox Lake on December 1 (DP), up to 13 there on and off during December and January (KC, BPB) ; five still there on February 12 (KC, AW) ; and two to three birds wintered near the large body of water at J. J. Goggins at the south edge of Boyle County (FL, WK). An interesting find was the five Ross’ Geese which were studied carefully with the flock of Snow Geese near BWMA on February 12 (BPB, DP, DE). Canada Geese were widespread during December and peaked at BWMA with 50,000 to 55,000 (CW). Canadas wintered at Wysox Lake and ranged in numbers from 100 to 800 during the period (KC, BBC, S, AW, FS) ; at least 600 wintered in the Danville area (Dix Dam and at J. T. Goggins — FL, WK). The large flocks flying over Glasgow, Barren County during the last week of February were likely migrants moving northward (RS) ; smaller numbers (2-7) were noted in mid-December and early January at BPS (KC), Madisonville, Hopkins County (JH), Lexington Reservoir, Fayette County (BA), and Long Run County Park, Jefferson County (S, FS). Ducks — The duck population was low during the early part of the winter months, but numbers increased markedly when the northward movement took place in late February, e.g., by December 1 about 4000 were at BWMA while by March 1 some 8000 to 10,000 were present (CW). Wood Ducks were in lower numbers this year compared with last year, but American Black Ducks showed some increase on the Louisville CBC with a count of 344 — - highest since 1981 CBC. A high count of ± 300 American Black Ducks at Bailey Hollow, Kentucky Lake, Calloway County on January 13 was encouraging (CP) ; normal numbers were at Dix Dam (FL, WK) ; but other sightings were of only two to 13 birds. Mallards were well distributed across the state with a high count of 75 at Lake Pewee on December 19 (JH); 50 at Lexington Reservoir on January 1 (BA) and 44 (new arrivals) at Smith Pond, Oldham County on February 18 (S, FS). There were few reports of Northern Pintails but a high count of 98+ at Dix Dam on February 25 was an all-time high there (FL, WK) ; 20 were recorded at the Brown Power Plant, Mercer County on February 25 (BPB, DP) ; three noted at Wysox Lake on January 21 (BPB) ; and 30 + on a small pond near MCFH, Bath County on January 13 (FB). A number of unusual winter records of the Northern Shoveler were reported: a pair near Danville, Boyle County, December 17 and four in a slough near Harrodsburg, Mercer County on January 13 and five there on January 17 (WK, FL) ; and more than 20 at Bailey Hollow on January 13 (CP) ; and 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 33 eight at Lexington Reservoir, January 1 (BA). In addition to CBC reports, winter Gadwall sightings included more than 700 at Bailey Hollow on January 13 - — a remarkable record (CP) ; other January and February records were in low numbers (1-5 birds, m. ob.). A total of 25 Canvasbacks had reached Lake Pewee by December 6 with a peak of 42 birds there on January 7 (JH) ; more than 50 at Honker and Hematite Lakes in LBL on January 13 and 60 there on March 1 (CP). Redheads were scarce with only a few observed on the lakes in western Kentucky and along the Ohio River at Louisville (BPB), and at Dix Dam (FL, WK), but 150-175 were seen at Cave Run Lake, Rowan County on February 25, where they are seldom obsei'ved (FB). Ring-necked Ducks were present in small numbers in most areas, but a high count of 850 was made at Lake Pewee, December 13 (JH) and 153 were still there on February 1 (JH); more than 60 noted at Honker and Hematite Lakes on January 25 (CP) ; and 100 was the high count at Cave Run Lake on the Rowan/Morgan County line (L. Kornman, A. Surmont et al. fide FB). A few Greater Scaups were reported from central Kentucky with five at Lexington Reservoir on January 1 (BA) ; five at Towhead Island, Louisville on January 21 (LR) ; small numbers along the Ohio River at Louisville from mid-December to the end of February with a peak of 12 at Towhead Island on February 5 (BPB) ; and five at the latter island on February 18 (S, FS). Lesser Scaups con¬ tinued to be scarce with only a total of 61 birds reported on the 23 CBCs; a flock of 30-35 at Towhead Island on February 18 was the highest number reported (S, FS). An Oldsquaw, a winter visitant, was found on Kentucky Lake on the LBL CBC on December 17 (BPB, DP); and one, a female, on the Lexington Reservoir on January 1 (BA). Three Surf Scoters (females or immatures) were noted on Lake Barkley above the dam on December 9 (BPB). Common Goldeneyes were fairly common on the western Kentucky lakes during the CBC period with 330 on the LBL CBC, and about 50 on Honker Lake on January 25 (CP), but elsewhere they were present in low numbers. Buffleheads were present in larger numbers than usual with 100 at Cave Run Lake on February 25 (FB), about 30 at Honker and Hematite Lakes on January 15 (CP), and a peak of about 35 at Honker Lake/Bay on January 22 (BPB); elsewhere three to 12 birds. Hooded Mergansers were not as numerous as last year, but a group of 250 was observed on Honker Bay of Lake Barkley in LBL on January 22 (BPB) and ± 60 on Honker and Hematite Lakes on January 25 (CP) ; and a few at Dix Dam (FL) were the only ones reported. Common Mer¬ gansers were not present in large numbers this winter; peak of “about a dozen birds” in the vicinity of Silo Overlook on Lake Barkley on January 22 (BPB) ; eight males at MCFH on February 6 (FB) ; five to eight males at Cave Run Lake, February 10-24 (FB); a female on the Ohio River at Louisville on January 10 (LR) ; and a few at Dix Dam (no date given FL, WK). Red-breasted Mergansers were scarce with only two birds listed on the 23 CBCs, but 25 were noted on the Lexington Reservoir on January 1 (BA); two females off Towhead Island on January 21 (LR) ; and a few at Dix Dam during the period (WK, FL). Ruddy Ducks were reported from only four locations: LBL, Louisville, Lexington and Lake Pewee, with the highest number — 40 birds — at the latter location on December 19 (JH). Hawks — A few Black Vultures were present during the period: two at BPS on December 26 (KC) ; one to six in the Cool Springs area of southern Ohio County from late December through February 12 (BPB, KC, AW, BBC) ; 10 in late February along 164 in eastern Jefferson County 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 (BPB) and 27 in the vicinity of Bondurant, Fulton County on January 18 (CP). Turkey Vultures were in normal numbers. The January eagle survey totaled 207 Bald Eagles and one Golden Eagle (D. Yancy). Twenty- four to 26 Bald Eagles were present at BWMA during February, also a new nest was observed there, and another new nest was built at Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area, Ballard County and attended by a pair of adults in February (CW, L. Andrews). Also, TVA personnel reported an active nest in LBL with “incubation suspected” in late February (fide BPB). Other Bald Eagle sightings were: single adult birds at Lake Pewee, December 10 (fide JH) ; West Point, Hardin County, January 7 (S, FS) ; west of Leitchfield, Grayson County, January 8 (JP); at least one adult and two immatures on Peabody land south of Cool Springs in southern Ohio County at various times from late December to early February (BPB) ; and adults and immatures at MCFH, from December 22 through February 24, with a high count of three adults and eight imma¬ tures on February 10 (FB). In addition, KDFWR personnel reported Bald Eagles along the Licking River (Bath/Rowan County line) and along Licking River adjacent to MCFH from January 5-19, with a high count of two adults and five immatures on January 19 (L. Kornman, A. Surmont, F. Howes, T. Slone). A wing-tagged immature Bald Eagle was observed a number of times in Rowan County during January (FB, LK et al.) . It is quite possible that there was some duplication of the birds at MCFM and those along the Licking River. Northern Harriers were fairly numerous on the reclaimed strip mine land south of Cool Springs in southern Ohio County, with a maximum of 25 or more there December through February (KC) ; a total of 62 birds on the Kentucky CBCs of which 40 were on the Paradise CBC (southern Ohio and Muhlenberg counties) ; two birds wintered near Short Creek, Grayson County (KC) ; three in Gallatin County, December 31 (LMc) ; an immature at Lake Pewee on January 17 (JH) ; and a male in Breckinridge County on February 5 (KC). Sharp- shinned and Cooper’s Hawks were present in numbers similar to those of last year (m. ob.). An immature Northern Goshawk was trapped, by a falconer, on October 28 in southern Boone County. This record was reported by Lee McNeely who did not see the bird in time to be included in the Fall Migration Season, 1988. Rough-legged Hawks were fairly numerous on the reclaimed strip mine area in southern Ohio County, with a maximum of 15 during the winter period (KC) ; also numerous on strip mine areas in Muhlenberg County (BPB) ; elsewhere, few were reported, e.g., one to two birds in each of five counties (m. ob.), and three birds in Clark County (BA). An immature Golden Eagle was observed feeding on a deer carcass along Wilson Creek, on the southern border of Bernheim Forest, January 2 (DP, Larry Sparks) ; another immature bird was shot in Todd County near Sharon Grove, and later died (fide BPB). American Kestrels were fairly common, especially in western Kentucky (MM, CP) and in Grayson and Ohio counties (KC). The bird of the season was truly the Prairie Falcon. The bird was first sighted flying over reclaimed strip mine land in southern Ohio County on November 12, although at the time it was not definitely identified, due to the fleeting glimpse of the bird (KC, Tony and Brenda Eaden). Then on December 16 Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Donald Pai'ker had a brief look at the elusive bird and identified it as a Prairie Falcon. On December 26 on the Paradise CBC Brainard Palmer-Ball and Doxie Noonan and others were able to observe, although very briefly, this rare falcon. Confirmation, of the record, however, was made on January 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 28 when the bird was found perched and Mark Monroe photographed it while his father, Dr. Burt L. Monroe, Jr., studied all its characteristic marking’s. This confirms the first state record of the Prairie Falcon for Kentucky. Coots through Shorebirds — This was a highly remarkable year for American Coots, especially in western Kentucky. It was estimated that there were not less than 50,000 and “not impossibly a million” from Paris Landing, Tennessee to Kentucky Dam during the period (CP); 2500 on Kentucky Lake within sight of the dam on January 22-February 12 (BPB) ; “nearly 1000” at Boyd’s Branch on January 8 and 500 on January 9 (JTE, CP) ; and numerous on Lake Pewee from December through early February, with a high count of 833 on December 6 (JH). A late movement of Sandhill Cranes passed over east Louisville on December 5 when many persons reported seeing flocks of several hundred birds (BPB) ; some 350+ flew over Fox Harbor, Louisville along Hwy. 42 on December 6 (KC) ; other late stragglers included 26 on Warren/Barren County line on December 8 (JK). Local residents near BWMA described seeing two Sandhill Cranes with the Snow Geese on February 11 which were probably early migrants (BPB); two were present at BWMA on March 1 (CW). Ten Common Snipe were present at Lake Pewee on January 17 (JH). An American Woodcock was heard calling as early as January 21 in northern LBL (BPB) ; the species was fairly conspicuous during late January until the colder weather set in (BPB) ; courtship flights were observed February 17-18 in a rural area seven miles north of Murray, Calloway County (MM). Gulls — The mild weather influenced Bonaparte’s Gulls to remain throughout the greater part of the winter. A flock of 48 birds passed over the Paradise Steam Plant on December 26, an unusual record for Muhlen- bery County (BPB); 69 were on the lakes for the LBL CBC and 35 on the Calloway County CBC; one to 11 birds at the Falls of the Ohio, January 3 and 7 (LR, BPB, respectively) ; then, on February 4, an unusually large group was counted on the Ohio River at Louisville, with at least three groups of birds combining for a total of J45+ from the Falls of the Ohio to Six-mile Island (BPB) ; at least 250 were still there the following day (BPB); and nearly 700 birds were observed on Kentucky Lake about a mile or two above the dam as they gathered to roost (“there were probably in excess of 1000 birds there”) on February 12 (BPB) ; many appeared to remain on the lakes throughout February; and a few were observed at Dix Dam (WK). As usual, the Ring-billed Gull was the predominant species on the lakes in western Kentucky, with an estimated 10,000 present on January 13 and 25 (CP) ; numbers increased in early February and in counting the birds at the roost on Kentucky Lake in groups of “100” Palmer-Ball came up with “nearly 13,000’ on February 12; a peak of 350 at Markland Dam, Gallatin County on December 31 (LMc) ; low numbers at the Falls of the Ohio with 150+ on February 17 (S, FS) ; increased numbers at Dix Dam (WK, FL) ; a high count of 150 at MCFH on Febru¬ ary 24 (FB) ; and 75-100 at Cave Run Lake throughout February (FB). As expected, Herring Gulls were in low numbers; approximately 75 around Kentucky Dam and 50 or more at Barkley Dam, with a peak of about 300+ at the roost on Kentucky Lake on February 12 (BPB) ; 10 to 11 at Louisville (m. ob.) ; few at Dix Dam (WK, FL) ; and two at MCFH on February 10 (FB). Depite the warm winter two Thayer’s Gulls were re¬ ported: a first winter bird was observed at Barkley Dam on December 9, 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 then probably the same bird observed again at Kentucky Dam on the LBL CBC on December 17 (BPB); and again at Kentucky Dam on February 12 (BPB, DP, DE) ; and a third-year bird was closely observed at Barkley Dam on January 22 (BPB, DE, H. Chambers, S. Leedom). An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was noted on Kentucky Lake on January 22 (BPB, DE) and also observed on January 28 (BM, MMo). A single Glaucous Gull was discovered at Smithland, Livingston County on February 25 (CP). The Ohio River had gone out of its banks and came up to US 60 south and north of Smithland. The Glaucous Gull, with several hundred Ring-billed Gulls, was about 300 yards from the highway on the edge of Smithland. A possible adult Great Black-backed Gull on Kentucky Lake above the dam on February 12 (BPB, DE) awaits review of the photograph. A documented, first-winter Black-legged Kittiwake on the Falls of the Ohio on February 17 and 18 was noteworthy (DP, DS, respectively). Owls — Great Horned Owls were in normal numbers. There were no reports of the Snowy Owl by K. 0. S. members, however, one was reported to John MacGregor of the Nongame Wildlife Program of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources by an “eagle volunteer.” The bird was well-described to Mr. MacGregor and observed on February 12 and 13 along Interstate 75 in northern Scott County at mile marker 132 and 138-139 (fide BPB). At present no other information is available. This was an excellent year for Short-eared Owls in Kentucky. Birds were re¬ ported from Montgomery, Ohio, Marion, Daviess, Shelby, Muhlenberg, and Bourbon counties (m. ob.), but the greatest numbers were found in Ohio and Muhlenberg counties on some reclaimed strip mine land, with 31 as the high count in Ohio County on December 31 (KC) and a high of 11 near the Western Kentucky Parkway in eastern Muhlenberg County and at least 10 west of Paradise Steam Plant in eastern Muhlenberg County (no dates given BPB). The six or seven Short-eared Owls in Montgomery County ( fide FK) and the five in Marion County (K. Prather fide BPB) were probably new county records. A single Saw-whet Owl was found in a Virginia Pine tree in eastern Muhlenberg County, approximately 2.0 miles north of Paradise on January 28 (BPB). Kingfishers through Horned Larks — Belted Kingfishers were present in normal numbers. Red-headed Woodpeckers appeared on 15 of the 23 Mid-winter Bird Counts with a total of 99 birds. Yellow-bellied Sapsuekers were doing slightly better than last year. Eastern Phoebes lingered well into late December since the species appeared on six CBCs, with a total of nine birds; one found in Bell County on February 3 was likely an early spring migrant (BPB). Perhaps due to the mild winter Horned Larks were up over the past two years (m. ob.). Ravens through Shrikes — A pair of Common Ravens was seen and heard in Bad Branch State Nature Preserve, Letcher County on February 6 (Joyce Bender fide BPB). Red-breasted Nuthatches were scarce during the entire period. The species appeared on only seven CBCs with a total of 15 birds; two birds were seen in Muhlenberg County on February 11 iBPB, BBC) ; and one to two during the winter at a Danville feeder, Boyle County (FL), were the only ones reported. Brown Creepers were well distributed, but numbers were below last winter (m. ob.). Carolina Wrens were well distributed, but there were fewer birds listed on the CBCs than last year. Although observers failed to comment on the Eastern 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 37 Bluebird, numbers were up in most areas. Exceptional, large numbers of American Robins lingered well into late December; migrants were noted on February 4 when a flock of 200+ was seen feeding on holly berries in Oldham County (S, FS), and only 60 were present there on February 18 (S). Cedar Waxwings were unusually common in late December and well distributed. Loggerhead Shrikes were reported in lower numbers than last year, although the species appeared to be increasing in western Kentucky (CP). Warblers through Finches — Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warblers were again widely distributed and were in higher numbers on the CBCs than the previous year. A group of four Indigo Buntings lingered and was found “just over the Butler County line from southeastern Ohio County near Schultztown” on the Paradise CBC December 26 (BPB, DE). There were few comments on the sparrows. While American Tree Sparrows were reported as “common” in Gallatin County (LMc) there were almost no sight¬ ings in Rowan County (FB) ; small numbers were observed in Ohio, Muhlen¬ berg, and Livingston counties (BPB). The species was listed on 11 CBCs, but in low numbers. Despite the warm weather Savannah Sparrows did not linger and only a few were seen in southern Ohio County and eastern Muhlenberg County in January (BPB) and three birds listed on the Lexington CBC. Song Sparrows were slightly above the winter of 1988 while Swamp Spar¬ rows were down from the previous year. White-throated Sparrows were reported in good numbers across the state while it was felt numbers were low at Glasgow and Madisonville (RS, JH, respectively). A few Lapland Longspurs were observed in late December in southern Ohio County near Cool Springs and at least one noted with Horned Larks in southwestern Gallatin County on December 31 (BPB). Blackbirds were not numerous this winter. Migrating Red-winged Blackbirds began arriving on February 11 when approximately 5000+ were seen on farm land in eastern Muhlen¬ berg County (BPB), and small groups of Brown-headed Cowbirds began appearing at feeding stations on February 6 and 17 (JH, S, respectively). Purple Finches were not numerous this winter and were in low numbers at scattered localities, with a high count of 25 birds at BPS on February 6 (KC). House Finches were again widespread and were more numerous at Berea than previously (AR, TR). Pine Siskins were very scarce. There were two reports of single birds: one bird fed on the window sill of the writer on February 8 (S) and one observed in Burlington in mid-December (LMc). The species was listed on three CBCs with a total of eight birds. American Goldfinches, however, were present in large numbers; 56 were counted at a Madisonville feeding station on February 17 (JH) ; and 40 were present at BPS during the period (KC). Evening Grosbeaks were practically absent, but they were numerous at a feeder in Madisonville during the period ( fide BM ) ; no others reported, with the exception of one bird on the LBL CBC and six on the Yelvington CBC. Corrigenda — Two American Pelicans should be changed to two Ameri¬ can White Pelicans ( Ky . War. Vol. 65:3) and Rough-winged Swallows should be changed to Northern Rough-winged Swallows (Ky. War. Vol. 65:9). On the Mississippi Kite sightings change DP with sighting in Fulton County to DP with sighting in Ballard County (Ky. War. Vol. 65:6). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Fred Busroe (FB), Kathryn Clay (KC), Diane Ebel (DE), Joe Tom Erwin (JTE), James W. Hancock (JH), 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Frank Krull (FK), John Krull (JK), William Kemper (WK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MMo), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Donald Parker (DP), Clell Peterson (CP), Joyce Porter (JP), Lene Rauth (LR), Art Ricketts (ARj, Tina Ricketts (TR), Anne Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Helga Schutte (HS), Russell Starr (RS), Donald Summer- field (DS), Charles Wilkins (CW), Alita Wilson (AW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. FOOD HABITS OF KENTUCKY OWLS Robert K. Brown The prey choices of the owls of Kentucky have been little studied. A few anecdotal reports are found in the literature (Funkhouser 1925, Fisher 1893, Pindar 1923, Lovell 1960, McNeely 1988), but no systematic investiga¬ tion had been done prior to this one. The purpose of this research is to begin to understand the prey choices made by the owls of Kentucky. METHODS Pellets are the undigested, regurgitated remains of the meal of an owl. They often contain parts of the prey that can be used in prey identification. Stomach contents of owls found dead, usually as a result of owl- motor vehicle collisions, were also used. Inclusion of stomach contents analysis is absolutely necessary to identify soft bodied prey such as caterpillars and earthworms, organisms which are completely digested and therefore missing from pellets. The help of many professional and amateur ornithologists in finding both pellets and dead owls was invaluable. This help was solicited through notices in various state publications, including The Kentucky Warbler. All owls and pellets examined were found in Kentucky between Janu¬ ary, 1979 and June, 1981. With few exceptions, mammalian remains were identified by the author with the aid of a reference collection of known skulls and mandibles. It was these skeletal elements that were most used in identification, since they are often the only taxonomically reliable skeletal elements. Insects were also identified for the most part by the author. Other prey items were identified with the help of several cooperating biologists. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Sixty-three owls were found dead during this investigation, of which 41 had stomachs containing food. A total of 199 food items was found in these stomachs. A total of 34 pellet samples was analyzed. Only pellets that were known to have come from a particular owl species were used. A total of 621 food items were identified from these pellets. The combined results from stomach content and pellet analysis yielded 820 food items, and these data are found in Table 1. Frequency of occurrence of food gi’oups (insects, birds, mammals, etc.) is found in Table 2. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 COMMON BARN-OWL (Tyto alba) One stomach that contained one prey item and six pellet samples of this species were analyzed, which combined yielded a total of 124 food items. The relative rarity of this bird in Kentucky is evidenced by the fact that all of the pellet samples were from the same location in Carroll County. The dead owl was from Bath County. No state-wide inferences can be drawn from such a small sample size. Nonetheless, 124 food items were identified (Table 1). Mammals composed 73% of this owl’s diet, and 27% was avian prey (Table 2). This narrow specialization was shared only by the Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus). It should be noted that large populations of Common Grackles ( Quisculus quiscula) and European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) were present near the nest site under which most of the pellets of this species were found. This opportunism is common among many owl species (Fuller 1979). So-called “pest” rodents (i.e., families Cricetidae and Muridae) and “blackbirds” (i.e., families Sturnidae and Icteridae, in part) composed 78% of this owl’s diet. No poultry were found to be food for this owl and none of the food items were game animals. The occurrence of the Southern Bog Lemming, Synaptomys cooperi in these samples represents a county record for that mammal (Robinson 1981) in Carroll County. EASTERN SCREECH-OWL (Otus asio) The number of stomachs analyzed of this species was 23, the largest sample in this study. Stomachs for content analyses were obtained from owls collected in Breathitt, Clark, Clay, Franklin, Grayson, Hardin, Hart, Hopkins, Jefferson, Nelson, Ohio, Oldham, Owsley, Pulaski, Webster and Woodford counties. These stomachs yielded 175 food items. Seven pellet samples were analyzed, representing the counties of Fayette, Hardin, Jefferson and Shelby. Sixty-nine food items were found. Together, stomachs and pellets had 244 food items. Stomach content analysis provides the best opportunity to detect both soft and hard bodied prey. Thanks to the relatively large number of stomachs analyzed in this predator, and their wide distribution in the state, a fairly accurate picture of the diet of this owl was possible. Inverte¬ brates composed 70% of the total prey detected. In particular, one stomach sample from Grayson County yielded 14 individuals of the caterpillar Agrotis ypsilon, the black cutworm, which is an agricultural pest. In fact, 78% of all insects taken by this owl were Lepidoptera, and all but one of those was confirmed to be adult or larval Noctuid moths, a majority of which are nocturnal (Borror and White 1970). The activity periods of screech owls, while not strictly limited to periods of darkness, are mostly nocturnal (Burton 1973). The large representation of adult moths reinforce this observation. The diet of the Eastern Screech Owl has been reported to vary widely with the geographic area and prey availability. In Tennessee, Turner and Dimmick (1981) found that screech owls consumed 5% mammals, 1% birds and 92% invertebrates. In Ohio, VanCamp and Henny (1975) found that 42% of 479 stomachs contained arthropods. Results of the same study indicated that 25% of food items found at nest boxes were mammals, and 71% were birds. In Michigan, Wilson (1938) found only 0.25% birds and 0.19% insects and 99.5% mammals among 1,549 food items of Eastern Screech Owls. These findings are testimony to the fact that this owl’s diet varies considerably. 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 03 UJ < Z < Q Z ^ < H H J Z M S £ * H O o S u < § o H Q W Z NN S3 S o u H £ (D W U OJ 4-> m QJ CD ft u w T3 o ZJ CD ft '"O u O VH m c5 'H ^ o o w >i O' _Q bX) c5 P, -t-> 3 £ o a> ^ £ *> QJ <-> ft £ o> £ c3 rO „ O w o ^ SH ^ 1> ' 3j w O O ^IS^'Ts E E w ^ — i i z z - VO r» oo ON O *— CN r .2 E. :"3 o icoZ h r j io r 1 OO 1— — 1 r-~ ^ r-i o .2-5 /“V !=-, 9 ju c a " ,5-S i'Of.O'S w u . c ' cx>_S f « °~-3 = - T3 ^ C q C — a-» £ c XuJ^^Offl-^uuZ^ C<5 Uh P3 ^ ’ ?Tn — ’ D>C/)t/}UJ •a Vi 0 Q-» c3 x> '£ to -c > P 3 rt flj *-* ■ ° ~ ~ - 0 -r C3 C p o o — Cl c, Tt IC» 1 ) c oc o', o — cj f iTtlCSCCX 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 Noteworthy among the vertebrates in the Eastern Screech Owl diet was the presence of three Red Bats (Lasiurus boralis) in a Jefferson County pellet. These bats possibly fell victim to the screech owl while they were pregnant and therefore less mobile than usual (Dr. Wayne Davis, personal communication ) . This represents only the second report of this bat in the diet of screech owls; the first record was noted in Tennessee in April 1978 (Turner and Dimmick 1981). Four percent of all food items were blackbirds while 10% of all food items were pest rodents. Pest rodents and blackbirds together accounted for 14% of all food items. No poultry was found in this analysis of Eastern Screech Owl diet. Two Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura), which com¬ prised 1% of the food items consumed by the screech owl, represented the only game animals. GREAT HORNED OWL (Bubo virginianus) Five stomachs with food of this owl were analyzed, representing the counties of Harrison, Henderson, Metcalfe and Shelby. Seventeen pellet samples were obtained from Jefferson and Trimble counties. Stomach content and pellet analyses resulted in the discovery of 195 food items. Unfortunately, only 5 of these food items were from stomachs, so the results could easily be biased in favor of hard bodied prey such as vertebrates. In fact, 98% of the prey in the combined results (Table 2) were vertebrates. Thus, few conclusions can be drawn as to the real mix of vertebrates and invertebrates in the diet of this owl. Nonetheless, some observations as to the vertebrate diet of this owl can be made. Roughly half of the vertebrates taken were birds, and the other half were mammals, with salamanders, frogs and a fish, the Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmonoides) rounding out the total (Table 1). While this species of owl has been known to prey on fish (Fisher, 1893), the fact that only a single bone of this fish, the quadrate, was recovered is puzzling. Likewise, the only ducks ( Anseriformes) or chickens (Galliformes) in this study were found to be food of the Great Horned Owl (Table 1). Three ducks and one chicken were found. The only American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) found in this investigation were three found to be in the diet of this owl species. While this is not the first incidence of this item in the Great Horned Owl diet (Latham 1950), it is interesting to note that American Crows often mob owls with impunity. Mobbing is the attraction to and disturbance of predators such as owls by smaller birds such as passerines, including crows (Pettingill 1970). Mobbing is thought to be a relatively safe action by the mobbing birds, but at least one visual obser¬ vation exists in the literature of a mobbing crow falling prey to the Great Horned Owl it was mobbing (Denson 1979). It is impossible, unfortunately, to determine if the crows in the Kentucky Great Horned Owl diet were par¬ ticipating in mobbing at the time of their demise. The only marsupial found in this Kentucky owl food analysis was represented by one Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginianus) in the diet of the Great Horned Owl. Other researchers in the eastern United States categorize the Great Horned Owl as being heavily dependent on mammals, preying on some birds and eating but few invertebrates (Northeastern United States, Latham 1950; Indiana, Kirkpatrick and Conway 1947; Michigan, Errington 1932b). The findings in this investigation seem to indicate a greater than usual preference by Kentucky Great Horned Owls for avian prey. 44 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Pest rodents (31%) and blackbirds (20%) together accounted for 51% of all food items taken by Kentucky Great Horned Owls. Game ani¬ mals were represented by Largemouth Bass (1%), Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) (1%), Mourning Doves (4%), Eastern Cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus) (7%) and Squirrels (Sciurus sp.) (2%); thus 15% were game animals. Poultry were represented by one unidentified chicken (1%) and three possibly domestic ducks (2%). Altogether 18% of all food items were poultry or game animals. BARRED OWL (Strix varia) Twelve stomachs containing 19 prey items were found in the counties of Adair, Ballard, Breathitt, Bullitt, Graves, Grayson, Green, Hickman, Jefferson, Rockcastle and Wolfe. Three pellet samples with 22 food items were analyzed from Jefferson and Hardin counties. Again, 41 prey items represent too small a sample from which to make strong conclusions. How¬ ever, since approximately half of the prey items were from stomachs, and since only four prey items were invertebrates, it is probably safe to assume that this species depends heavily on vertebrates for its food. Of the 37 vertebrates found, only one was a bird, the rest mammals. Three species of mammals were found in the Barred Owl sample that were not found in other owl samples. The Southeastern Shrew (Sorex longirostris) is usually found in moist woods (Barbour and Davis 1974), thus it is not surprising to find it in the diet of this riparian owl species. The Southern Flying Squirrel ( Glaucomys volans), also only found in the diet of the Barred Owl in this investigation, shares with the Southeastern Shrew a propensity for occupying habitats near water. The House Mouse, (Mus musculus), which can be found in very high density in localized populations in Kentucky, was curiously represented by only one individual, and that was in the diet of the Barred Owl. While it cannot be cited as proof that Kentucky Barred Owls prey on fish or other aquatic prey, Brown (1980) reported a case in which a Barred Owl showed much interest in a top-water lure being used by a fisherman in Grayson County, Kentucky on April 13, 1980. It was postu¬ lated that this owl considered the lure as a fish, and its interest was interpreted as being indicative of the possible fish diet of this owl. Other studies of Barred Owl diet have pointed to its use of many types of food; however, the majority of food taken is usually mammalian (Bent 1938, Latham 1950, Errington 1932b). The findings in this report correspond closely with the findings of these researchers. No poultry and only 2% of the total diet consisted of game animals for the Barred Owl in Kentucky. Pest rodents comprised 66% of all food items noted, blackbirds 2%, for a total of 68%. SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) Only one pellet sample, from Fayette County, and no stomachs, were obtained for this species in Kentucky. While a woefully small number of samples was examined, that sample contained 216 food items, and thus was deemed worthy of analysis. This owl’s diet was found by pellet analysis alone to be 4% birds and 96% mammals. There is a real possibility that stomach analysis would reveal the invertebrate items often only discernible by this method. The monotonous diet of this owl is well documented. Latham (1950), Kirkpatrick and Conway (1947), Clark (1975) and others have found that the Meadow Vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) and other microtine 1939 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 45 ti H J PQ <5 H in < Z < H W -J w pH Q Z < m H Z w H z o O s w < S o H ao Q U Z o c QJ Q -i U4 u. Z , u . H W . Sg go § nc o sa- II w CO C Z 2 fc 2 3 2 5 o o r- o\ ri o o r 4 w w w w w o >/Y r-H 1— I ro Os ON O O f J3 A3 . a ‘ N © £ 3 05 \ sn XJ v_ lo k- V J3 E 3 C c o 4) 2 OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB Month Figure 1. Average monthly numbers (birds/survey) of dabblers (without Mallards), divers, and mergansers on the Lexington reservoirs. >, 0) 3 & \ 05 © O © a co L. © X) E 3 C c o © AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB Month Figure 2. Average monthly numbers (species/survey ) of waterfowl and other aquatic species found on the Lexington reservoirs. 60 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Of the 25 species of aquatic birds assessed quantitatively, 52% of the species observed were shorebirds (Table 4). Although numerous species used the reservoirs as a migration stop-over, few remained to winter here. The most consistent users of the reservoirs in mid-winter were Great Blue Herons. A roost was located on the unpopulated side of reservoir #4. The maximum number of species was found in October (Figure 2). Several species of shorebirds arrived during the last week of October and lingered into early November. Peak species diversity at the reservoirs occurred somewhat later than at the Falls of the Ohio (Palmer- Ball 1986). It is apparent that the variety of waterbird species found on Lexington reservoirs is comparable to many sites in the state. Although numbers of birds are well below the magnitude found in western Kentucky, water- bird use is still substantial. In the current day of continuing wetland loss, minor wetland sites may take on increased importance. Unfortunately, as development continues around Lexington, the ability of the reservoirs to provide waterbirds with a suitable resting or wintering site may change. It is hoped that this study will aid future workers in gauging such alterations. Table 4. Monthly occurrence (-f denotes presence, — denotes absence) of other aquatic birds found on Lexington Reservoirs from October 1984 - February 1985, August - September 1985. Species AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB Double-crested Cormorant — — + + _ _ _ Great Blue Heron ... + + + + + + + Great Egret . — — — — + — — Little Blue Heron . — + + — — — — Green-backed Heron ... + + + — — — — Black-crowned Night-Heron .... + + + — — — — Semipalmated Plover — + + — — — — Killdeer + + + + + + + Greater Yellowlegs . + + + + — — — Lesser Yellowlegs + + + + — — — Solitary Sandpiper ■■ + + + — — — — Spotted Sandpiper + + — — — — — Semipalmated Sandpiper ■■ + + — — — — — Least Sandpiper - + + + — — — — Baird’s Sandpiper ... — + + — — — — Pectoral Sandpiper . — + + — — — — Dunlin — — + + — — — Stilt Sandpiper ... + + + — — — — Common Snipe — — + — — — — Bonaparte’s Gull ... — — — — + + — Ring-billed Gull — — + + + + + Herring Gull ... — — — + + — — Common Tern ... — — + — — — — Forster’s Tern — — + — — — — Belted Kingfisher . + + + + + + + 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 61 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS — I would like to thank Greg Balogh and Blaine Ferrell for reviewing the manuscript and making helpful sug¬ gestions. LITERATURE CITED Altman, R. 1982. Waterfowl utilization of a small lake in the Knobs region of Kentucky. Kentucky Warbler 58:38-40. Bellrose, F. C. 1976. Ducks, Geese and Swans of North America 2nd edition. Staekpole Books, Harrisburg, PA. 544 pp. Busroe, F. M. 1985. Avian species attracted to and utilizing the Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery. Kentucky Warbler 61:23-27. Harm, R. 1973. Notes from Bell County. Kentucky Warbler 49:16-17. Logsdon, C. W. 1986. Winter waterfowl on the Swan Pond Wildlife Area. Kentucky Warbler 62:30-31. Monroe, B. L., A. L. Stamm and B. L. Palmer-Ball, Jr. 1988. Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky. Kentucky Ornithological Society. 84 pp. Mengel, R. M. 1965. The Birds of Kentucky. American Ornithologists’ Union, Ornithological Monograph No. 3. 581 pp. Palmer-Ball, B., Jr. and R. R. Hannan. 1986. Resident and Migrant Bird Study, McAlpine Locks and Dam. Technical Report, Department of the Army, Louisville District, Corps of Engineers, 147 pp. Powell, A. L. 1960. Some birds of the Owensboro lakes. Kentucky Warbler 36:23-27. Shadowen, H. E. 1972. A season at the transient lakes near Bowling Green. Kentucky Warbler 48:48-49. Stamm, A. L., L. C. Brecher and H. B. Lovell. 1960. The 1959 autumn season at the Falls of the Ohio. Kentucky Warbler 36:3-8. Stamm, A. L. and D. Summerfield. 1952. Water birds at the Ohio Falls during the autumn season. Kentucky Warbler 28:39-44. Wilson, G. 1929. Bird life of a transient lake in Kentucky. Wilson Bull. 41:177-185. Wilson, G. 1956. The Woodburn lakes — 1951-1956. Kentucky Warbler 32:59-61. — Department of Zoology, 1735 Neil Ave., The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210. THE SPRING SEASON OF 1989 Anne L. Stamm The spring season of 1989 was in sharp contrast to that of 1988. There was a scarcity of rain in 1988 while rainfall this spring was above normal for all three months. The heavy rains throughout the state caused rivers and streams to overflow. The transient lakes in Warren County were unusually high and provided excellent habitat for waterfowl. March and April were warm and on average temperatures were above normal. The southerly winds and warm fronts in March triggered a few species of transient swallows to arrive unusually early. May, usually warmer than April, was cooler than normal. The cool weather in May may have influenced some species to linger beyond normal departure dates. The strongest migration movements occurred April 17-18, May 3-8 and May 21-26. 62 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Probably the most outstanding event of the season was the first nesting of the Short-eared Owl in Kentucky. Other notable sightings were a Glossy/White-faced Ibis in Louisville, Cinnamon Teal, Swainson’s Hawk, Ruff, Clay-colored Sparrow and Sharp-tailed Sparrow. Abbreviation — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Bal¬ lard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; KOS = Kentucky Ornithological Society; LP Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; Reelfoot NWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; SWMA = Sauerheber WTildlife Manage¬ ment Area; Swan Lake WMA = Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area, Ballard County; SHF = Surrey Hills Farm, Louisville. Transient lakes are McElroy and Chaney Lakes, Bowling Green, Warren County. Loons through Cormorants — Although Common Loons returned to Kentucky in March, the migration was not spectacular. Single birds were first observed on Kentucky Lake above the dam on March 12 (BPB) and at LP on March 22 (LR); small numbers (3-4) appeared at LP on April 13 and 17 (JH, BPB, respectively), and at Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake in early May (BPB); while one in breeding plumage was noted at Barren River Lake, Barren County on April 29 (LMc) and one in winter plumage was still present on Kentucky Lake above the dam on May 20 (BBC). One to two Pied-billed Grebes were present at LP from March 11 through April 17 (JH) ; small numbers at various sites in Jefferson County (S, MB), Ohio and Muhlenberg counties during April (BE, TE); but the greatest number was at McElroy Lake, where in mid-April they peaked at 25, and a few lingered through the end of May (BPB). Horned Grebes were reported from six locations: Lentz’s Pond, Jefferson County (JK), Lake Pewee (BPB), Kentucky Lake (BPB, DP), McElroy Lake (BPB), Cave Run Lake and MCFH, Rowan County (FB). Highest count during the period was 15-20 birds at McElroy Lake on March 25. One bird (perhaps with an injured wing) remained at McElroy Lake throughout May (BPB). An Eared Grebe was seen on the Ohio River above the Falls of the Ohio on March 17 (DP, KC) ; and another, or perhaps the same bird, at Lentz’s Pond on March 23 (DP); and single birds in breeding- plumage were present at McElroy Lake on April 30 and May 14 (BPB, DP). It was believed that these two birds were different individuals since a bird was not observed in between these dates. Double-crested Cormorant numbers were quite impressive with 100 in cypress trees at Lake #9 on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE) and an estimated 350 there on May 3 (BPB); 60 migrating north on Lake Barkley south of the 68-80 bridge on April 17 (BPB, DP); about 30 at Smithland Dam on April 13 (DN, MB); and 18-26 on the shore of Shippingport Island, Louisville on March 31 and April 23 (LR). Smaller groups included 11 birds at McElroy Lake on April 23 (BPB); six at Mayfair Basins, Louisville (DP); one at Rabbit Hash, Boone County on May 13 (LMc) ; and one at MCHF on April 4-6 (FB, ME, GE). One bird remained in southern Ohio County throughout the period (KC) . Bittern through Herons — It was encouraging that four American Bitterns were reported: one heard calling at Ferguson Spring Marsh, Trigg County in LBL on April 9, (BPB) ; one flushed at SWMA, Hender¬ son County on April 28 (BPB, DP); one at a woodside puddle in the knobs near Danville on April 30 (FL, WK) ; and one at the cattail pond southwest of Cool Springs on the Homestead Mine in Ohio County on May 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 63 30 (S). Only one Least Bittern was reported: one observed at the cattail pond, same site as above, on May 18 (BE, KC, BPB). Great Blue Herons were present but in smaller numbers than usual. Strangely enough, the first Great Egret reported was sighted at Dix Dam, Mercer County on April 1 (FL) ; two were seen near Cave City, Barren County on April 4 (JK) ; one on Rose Island Road, Jefferson County on April 7 (DP); five in western Fulton County on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE) ; nine in a field north of Smithland Dam, Livingston County on April 12 (DN, MB) ; one at MCFH on April 9 (FB) ; two below McAlpine Dam, Louisville on April 19 ( LR) ; one at Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County on April 22 (BM et. al.) ; seven at SWMA on May 29 and a single bird at McElroy Lake on April 29 (BPB). Otherwise, small numbers were seen in the usual places in western Kentucky. Two Snowy Egrets had returned to Kentucky by April 8 and were seen along KY-94 southwest of Hickman, Fulton County (BPB, CP, JTE); singles were observed on the Peal Unit of BWMA on May 3 (BPB) ; at McElroy Lake on May 20 (BBC) ; and at Swan Lake WMA on May 21 (BBC). Five Little Blue Herons were first seen at Reelfoot NWR, Fulton County on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE); approximately 10-15 were seen at both BWMA and Swan Lake WMA on May 3-4 (BPB) and May 21 (BBC). A Tricolored Heron was thoroughly studied at MCFH April 4 (ME, GE), providing Kentucky with its first sight record. The bird was well described and satisfactorily documented by Mary and Gary Elam. Cattle Egrets were first observed on April 29 at McElroy Lake when a flock of 33 came to roost (BPB); approximately 200 birds were seen in several flocks moving west over Swan Lake WMA on May 4 as they went to roost in Missouri (BPB, JTE). Other sightings included 12 birds in Ballard County and four in Carlisle County on May 16 (CP) ; two at McElroy Lake on May 20 (BF); and one on a farm pond near Union, Boone County on May 6-7 (LMc). Green-backed Herons continue to be reported in low numbers except at MCFH where the daily average during the month of May was 24 birds per trip (FB). Three Black-crowned Night- Herons arrived at Mayfair Basins on March 14 (S, FS) and at Shipping- port Island on March 17, but 47 were seen at the latter site on March 23 (DP) ; and an adult bird was seen on a bottomland slough several miles north of Bayou in Livingston County on April 17 (BPB, DP). Six adult Yellow-crowned Night-Herons were observed in the Crescent Hill area on April 20, where they were nesting (KC, HLC). Other sightings were three birds at Lentz’s Pond on May 11 (DP), two there on May 26 (LR), and a single bird at BWMA on May 3 and 4 (BPB, JTE). An unidentified Plegadis ibis was observed at Lentz’s Pond on May 7 (CL) and represents the first sight record for Jefferson County. Waterfowl — After a warm front in mid-March the waterfowl mi¬ gration was well under way and most lakes and large bodies of water had new arrivals. A Mute Swan of unknown origin was observed flying along the Gene Snyder Freeway in eastern Jefferson County in late March (BPB). The flock of 19 White-fronted Geese at McElroy Lake March 19- April 1 was east of its normal range (BPB, DP, KC, DE). The only Snow Geese reported were the 12 at McElroy Lake on March 11-April 1 (BPB) and one near Danville on March 4 (FL). Ten Green-winged Teal were seen on McElroy Lake on March 11 and they remained most of the period; one drake was still present on May 31 and provided a new late spring date (BPB). Other sightings included about 30 birds at SWMA on April 7, 10 at Chaney Lake in late April (BPB); and 15 at Reelfoot NWR, Fulton County on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE) ; one bird at Petersburg, Boone County 64 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 was still present on May 6 (LMc). The Blue-winged Teal was widespread (m. ob.) and highest concentration was 100+ birds at McElroy Lake on April 23; and at least two broods of downy young were seen at McElroy Lake (BPB). The sighting of a male Cinnamon Teal on the Western Ken¬ tucky University Farm, south of Bowling Green, April 23 was note-worthy (BPB). The bird was also observed later that day by Dr. Blaine Ferrell and on April 24 by Donald Parker. (A good photograph was obtained of the bird.) Seven Northern Shovelers were first noticed at Lentz’s Pond on March 3 (LR) ; 10 birds were present at McElroy Lake on March 11 with six to eight still there on May 31, with a peak of 50+ birds April 1 and 23 (BPB); scattered groups on Reelfoot NWR totaled 250 on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE) ; and smaller groups of about 20 birds were seen up¬ stream from Kentucky Dam on April 4 (CP) and at SWMA on April 7 (BPB). Other puddle ducks with fair concentrations included the Gadwall with approximately 75 birds at McElroy Lake on March 19 and the Ameri¬ can Wigeon with a peak of 300 on March 25 at the same location; three Gadwall and Two American Wigeon were still present on May 31 (BPB). The 35 Redheads at Cave Run Lake on March 9 and the 20 at MCFH on March 16 were exceptional records for Rowan County (FB) ; 50+ were present at McElroy Lake on March 11, where two male and one female were still there on May 14 (BPB); small numbers were found elsewhere. Ring-necked Ducks were widespread all across the state from Fulton County in the west to Rowan and Morgan counties in the eastern section of the state (m. ob. ). Highest counts included 300 at Chaney Lake (BPB), 150 at MCFH (FB), 100 at McElroy Lake (BPB), 69 at Pulaski County Park and 55 at Somerset, Pulaski County (JE1). Late stragglers included one at McElroy Lake on May 20 (BF) and one still there on May 31 (BPB). A male Greater Scaup was observed at Chaney Lake on March 11-19 (BPB) and a few at Cave Run Lake on March 19 and 31, also, at MCFH on April 4, 6, and 9 (FB). Four groups of Lesser Scaup totaling 2000± were seen on April 4 upstream from Kentucky Dam (CP) ; about 100+ at MCFH on April 6 and 200± at Cave Run Lake March 31 (FB). Other concentrations included 150 at Chaney Lake on March 19 and a peak of 200 birds at McElroy Lake on March 11 and 25 (BPB) ; two pairs were still present on May 31 (BPB). An Oldsquaw was unexpected at Lentz’s Pond on March 28 (KC, LR) and March 29 (DP). A female Surf Scoter was discovered on MCFH on May 5-6 and provided Kentucky with its third spring record and first for eastern Kentucky (FB, Lewis Korman, Orville Litteral, ME, GE). There was a good migration of Buffleheads with impressive concentrations of 250 at MCFH on March 31, 175 there on April 16 and 150 at Cave Run Lake on March 19 (FB), providing the largest groups ever reported in Kentucky. Other sightings included a peak count of 40-50 at LP on April 7 (BPB) and 75 at McElroy Lake on March 25; a few lingered into May with one female still present at the end of the month, extending the late spring date 22 days (BPB). The Hooded Mer¬ ganser migration was poor, with the exception of the 25 at Cave Run Lake on March 14 (FB); 10 birds were still there on April 9 (FB). A female with five half-grown young was observed at Chaney Lake on May 27 (BPB, DE, Richard Healy) representing the first nesting record of this species for the lake and county, as well as that part of the state. The migration flight of Red-breasted Mergansers was light with scattered small groups of less than 25 birds observed on Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake through early May; peak count of 30 birds on Kentucky Lake above the dam on April 17 (BPB, DP); peak count at McElroy Lake of 15 birds on March 11 (BPB); 14 birds at MCFH on March 14 (FB); 11 on the Ohio River 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 65 at Louisville on March 21 (LR), and four in Mercer County on April 2 (KC, LR, S, JW). A total of 61 Ruddy Ducks was present at LP on March 22 (LR, KC) and the flock built up to 85 birds on April 7 (JH, BPB) ; Present at McElroy Lake from March 11 through the end of May with a peak of about 60 birds on April 10. Four birds were still on the lake on May 20 (BF) and five birds (four male and one femade) still there on May 31 (BPB). Hawks — Black Vultures were present in normal numbers. As usual, Turkey Vultures were present in low numbers except at the roost site in the vicinity of Bondurant where 40 were observed during the period (no date — CP), and at MCFH where 75 were counted on April 13 (FB). A few migrant Ospreys were reported: singles at LP (JH), southern Ohio County (BE, GE), and MCFH (FB). Breeding birds were observed in Livingston and Trigg counties (BPB). Two to three Mississippi Kites were seen on BWMA on May 3 (BPB); and a single bird there on May 21 (BBC). Two Bald Eagles were present in Marion County on March 23, where they had been seen for several weeks (SC) ; an adult bird was noted at BWMA on May 3 (BPB) and May 21 (BBC). Northern Harriers were unusually common in extreme southern Ohio County on reclaimed strip mine land with 30 present on March 5 (DN, BBC) ; 25 still there on March 22 and some remained throughout the month of May (KC, BE, TE) ; “numbers” also remained into May at the Muhlenberg County strip mine area. On May 26 a nest was found in both Ohio and Muhlenberg counties (AB, BPB). Breeding has been suspected for sometime, especially in western Kentucky, but this is the first record of a nest. Single Northern Harriers were also seen in Grayson County on March 20 (KC) and in Hopkins County on the late date of May 29 (JH). A group of 16 Broad¬ winged Hawks was seen in Danville, Boyle County (WK fide FL no date given). The single birds at Petersburg on May 25 and at Camp Ernst, Boone County on May 27 were probably breeding birds (LMc). An unusual record of a Swainson’s Hawk, four miles north of Murray, Calloway County on May 5 was east of its normal range (MM). A few Rough-legged Hawks remained in southern Ohio County during March and early April (KC, BPB) ; a group of seven noted there on April 4 and one as late as April 18 (KC). The rare Merlin was seen near McElroy Lake on May 7 (BPB). The Prairie Falcon mentioned in The Winter Season, 1988-1989 (KY. Warbler, 65: 34-35, 1989) was last seen in Ohio County on March 27 (KC, HLC). Two adult Peregrine Falcons were reported: one at Mitchell Lake, BMWA on May 4 (BPB, JTE) ; and another at McElroy Lake on May 27 (BPB, DE, Richard Healy). Wild Turkey through Cranes — Five Wild Turkeys were observed near Wysox Lake, Ohio County on March 23 and one at SWMA on the same date (KC, LR) ; single birds in Rowan and Ohio counties on April 23 (ME, BE, respectively) ; and six thought to be feral birds were present in War¬ ren County on May 10 (BF). A few Virginia Rails were reported: one flushed from SWMA on April 28 (BPB, DP) ; three heard calling from the cattail pond on the Homestead Mine in southern Ohio County on the same day; at least four birds at this site May 20 (BBC) and one was still calling there on May 26 (BPB, AB); and one was flushed from marshy vegetation on Mitchell Lake, BWMA on May 21 (BBC). Soras were wide¬ spread and first appeared at Lentz’s Pond on March 25 (LR, KC) ; at least a dozen were flushed at SWMA on April 28 and was the high count there (BPB, DP) ; approximately five birds were present at a cattail pond on the Homestead Mine the same day. Other Sora sightings included one at 66 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Mammoth Cave National Park on April 29 (JB, PB) ; one found dead in Hart County on May 13 (MS) ; six at BWMA on May 3-4 and one still heard at the cattail pond in Ohio County on May 20 (BPB). A fail- number of Common Moorhens showed up at a few locations in May: one at Long Run County Park, Jefferson County on May 14 (S, FS) ; three at a cattail pond on the Homestead Mine in “early May” (Richard Healy fide BPB), and still present on May 24 (KC, S, BF, et al.) ; one at Standiford Airfield, Louisville on May 20 (TL) ; a few heard at BWMA on May 29 (BPB) and one at MCFH on May 5-6 (FB). There was a fair migration of the American Coot in south-central Kentucky during mid-March to mid-April. The birds peaked at McElroy Lake with an estimated 5000 birds there on April 10 (BPB); and 255 was the high count at LP on April 7 (JH). A few of the coots lingered fairly late: one near Danville on May 24 (FL); about five present at the end of May at McElroy Lake (BPB) ; two at the cattail pond in southern Ohio County through May (KC, BE, TE, BPB), and still there on June 1 (S, FS). Sandhill Cranes were migrating through Kentucky primarily between March 11-12. The birds were first heard calling over Bullitt County (BN) on March 11, while a flock of 150 birds was seen in east Louisville (M.L. Gorman fide LR, KC) and two flocks, totaling about 110 birds were flying along 1-71, some 70 miles south of Cincinnati, Ohio (B. Evans fide DN). Then on March 12 about 100 birds were observed over northeast Louisville (DN), 215 over east Louisville (RB, JJ), and 18 over southwestern Jefferson County (BN); 18 birds were seen at Cave City on March 19 (MS) and four were reported over Hart County on the late date of May 13, but without details. Shorebirds — Shorebird migration was unusually good particularly in Boone, Mercer and Warren counties. Due to heavy rains many fields were flooded and provided good habitat. Black-bellied Plovers were seen at three locations: McElroy Lake, where one was seen on April 29 (KOS), peak count of 15 birds there on May 20 (BBC) and three there on May 27 (BPB, Richard Healy, DE); eight birds at Dix Dam, Mercer County on May 23 (WK) ; and five birds at Swan Lake WMA on May 21 (BBC). Lesser Golden-Plovers were not as numerous this spring in western Fulton County as in 1988 with a peak of only 125-150 birds there (75 being the largest single group) on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE). Other sightings included 10 birds with a large concentration of shore- birds in a flooded field in Ohio River bottom north of Bayou, April 16-17 (BPB, DP) ; six birds on Schuler Lane, Oldham County on April 8 (BPB); up to 12 birds at McElroy Lake on April 29-30 (KOS) and a single bird lingered there until May 20 (BBC), extending the state’s late spring date. The bird was seen there again on May 23 (Gary Boggs fide BPB). Single Lesser Golden-Plovers were also seen in western Boone County on April 2 and May 6 (LMc). Semipalmated Plovers were widespread and remained from April 23 through May 31 with peak counts of 75-100 at McElroy (BPB), 43 at MCFH (FB), 27 in Mercer County (FL, WK), and scattered flocks in numbers from four to 10 birds in western Boone County (LMc). Otherwise, birds were observed at the following locations: six at BWMA and five at Swan Lake WMA, both on May 4 (BPB, JTE) ; six plus at SWMA on April 28 (BPB, DP) ; “several” on sod fields on Chamberlain Lane, Jefferson County on May 6-7 (BBC); one each at Paradise Steam Plant, Muhlenberg County on May 25 (BPB, AB) and near Science Hill, Pulaski County on May 7 (JE1). An interesting spring record was the discovery of six American Avocets on Barren River 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 67 Lake on April 29 (WK, VK et ah). Both Yellowlegs were reported from western Fulton County to Rowan County (m. ob.) ; numbers ranged from one to 10 in most locations, but 50-75 Greater and 75-100 Lesser were present in western Fulton County on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE) and 50 Greater and approximately 300 Lesser were observed in a flooded field in Ohio River bottom north of Bayou, April 16-17 (BPB, DP). On April 28 about 150 Lesser Yellowlegs were seen at Muddy Slough, SWMA (DP, BPB) and the species peaked at McElroy Lake with 75-100+ birds from April 29-May 14 (BPB). Solitary Sandpipers were widespread but in low numbers. A flock of 40+ Willets was watched at Barren River Lake on April 29 (JW, DS, S, Gerry Williams) and another flock of 43 birds was noted at McElroy Lake on the same afternoon (BPB, KOS). These flocks are the largest ever recorded in Kentucky. A single Willet was also recorded at MCFH on May 5 (FB). Two Upland Sandpipers were seen at the edge of a slough in Mercer County on April 24 (FL, WK). A Whimhrel was photographed in a flooded field at Swan Lake SWMA on May 3 (BPB). Four Marbled Godwits were with the flock of Willets at McElroy Lake on April 29 (good photos) (BPB, KOS). There were three records of the Ruddy Turnstone : three birds in a flooded field in Boone County on May 13 (LMc), three in breeding plummage at McElroy Lake on May 20 (BBC), and two at Dix Dam on May 23 (first local record — WK fide FL). The Semipalmated Sandpiper migration at McElroy Lake was unusually good with a high count of 425+ birds on May 29 (BPB) and in the Danville area the flight was the “best spring ever” with up to 115 in a day, 75 birds were still present there on May 29 (FL, WK). Other¬ wise, sightings of 50-75 birds during May were seen at the following loca¬ tions: BWMA, SWMA, a nearby site in Henderson County, and Paradise Steam Plant. Three Western Sandpipers (good photo of at least one) were found with a flock of Semipalmated Plovers at McElroy Lake on April 30 (BPB, DP). The earliest White-rumped Sandpiper was noted in Boone County on May 13 (LMc), although they were also noted at McElroy Lake on May 14 with a peak of 55-60 on May 25 (BPB). Other sightings in¬ cluded 15 birds at BWMA on May 21 (BBC), 10-12 at Paradise Steam Plant on May 18 (BPB) and eight to 10 there on May 25 (BPB, AB); “up to at least five (birds) a day” from mid-May through the period in the Danville area (FL, WK), where they reported “more than all years combined.” Pectoral Sandpipers were widespread with highest concentra¬ tions of about 400 birds in Ohio River bottoms north of Bayou on April 16-17 and at Muddy Slough, SWMA on April 28 (BPB, DP). Also, the species peaked with 100+ birds at McElroy Lake on April 29 and May 5 (BPB) ; at least 50 in a slough in Mercer County on April 2 (m. ob.) ; and smaller numbers elsewhere. Dunlins were reported from only four locations in numbers from one to four with the exception of a flock of 43 or more in spring plumage at Dix Dam on May 23 (WK fide FL). A few Stilt Sandpipers were seen: two birds at SWMA on April 28 (BPB, DP); a flock of 13 (including one color-marked) at McElroy Lake on May 20 (BBC) and one bird remained until May 27 (BPB). A rare visitant, the Ruff, was discovered on a slough about four miles northeast of Harrods- burg, Mercer County on April 1 (WK, FL, later in the day by others) and provided the third record for Kentucky. A surprising flock of 102 Short¬ billed Dowitchers was identified in western Boone County on May 13 (LMc) and is the largest number ever recorded in the state. Small groups of two to four birds, all identified by call notes, were at the transient lakes May 5-20 (BPB, BBC) and one in Mercer County on May 15 (FL). Three birds were reported at Dix Dam on May 23 and one at McElroy Lake on 68 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 the same date, although they were reported without vocalization detail. Long-billed Dowitchers heard and observed included 22 at McElroy Lake on April 29 (KOS, BPB) and two at MCFH on May 5 (FB). The two birds at SWMA on April 28 (BPB, DP) and the flock of five at Chaney Lake (KOS) were regarded as dowitcher sp. Common Snipe were present in good numbers with maxima of 50+ at both McElroy Lake and Reelfoot NWR. There were more reports of the American Woodcock than usual: singles in Morgan County March 12 (ME, GE), and BPS on March 20 (KC); adult and a nest with four eggs on Peabody strip mine pit, Ohio County March 25 (BF) ; adult with two young at Blue Grass Industrial Park, Jefferson County on April 20 (FK, JK); one bird in Calloway County on May 5 (C. Mowery fide CP) and May 6 (CP). A Wilson’s Phalarope was seen at Swan Lake on May 3 (BPB). A Red-necked Phala- rope was photographed at McElroy Lake on May 20 (BBC, BPB) and was seen again on May 23 (Gary Boggs fide BPB). This represents Kentucky’s first spring record. Gulls, Terns ■ — A Laughing Gull was recorded at the Falls of the Ohio on April 23 (DN) and three birds were seen on Lake Barkley above the dam on May 21 (BBC). An early Franklin’s Gull was detected at Lake Barkley March 4 (DN, BBC) and at Kentucky and Barkley Dams March 5 (BPB) ; others in numbers from one to two were found along the Ohio River at Cox’s Park April 12 (DP), Smithland, Kentucky April 13 (DN, MB) and at McElroy Lake May 20 (BPB). The Bonaparte’s Gull migration was unusually good particularly in western Kentucky during April 9-13. An impressive 9000-10,000 birds gathered at the roost site at Kentucky Dam (DN, MB, BPB) and was the largest concentration of this species ever recorded in the state. In addition, this gull was reported in smaller numbers at the following locations: western Boone County (LMc), Dan¬ ville area (FL, WK), Waitsboro Recreational Area, Pulaski County (JE1), floodwaters of Licking River, Morgan, County (ME, GE), and at MCFH (FB). The warm front on April 16-18 triggered a northward movement of thousands of Ring-billed Gulls in the Kentucky Lake area as only 2000-2500 were found on April 17 (BPB). A few birds lingered into May at both MCFH (FB) and Boone County (LMc), while “several hundred” were still seen at Kentucky Lake on May 20-21 (BBC). A few Thayer’s Gulls were present despite the warm weather in March and April: an adult and a first-year bird were at Barkley Dam on March 5 (DN, BBC, BPB); a third-year bird at Barkley Dam on March 4 (probably the same bird as was seen on January 22 ■ — BPB) ; and a first-year bird at Shipping- port Island on April 1 (DN). The Glaucous Gull reported below Kentucky Dam on March 4 was the only one observed during the period (DN, et al.). A photograph of the Great Black-backed Gull was reviewed and verifies the validity of the sighting on February 12, 1989 (KY. Warbler, 65:36, 1989). Caspian Terns were widely scattered and only present in small num¬ bers (3-18) April 9-29 with the higher figure at the Falls of the Ohio (LR, DN, BM). Five Common Terns were seen at McElroy Lake on May 5 (BPB), while single birds were well seen on Kentucky Lake above the dam on May 21 (BBC) and at MCFH May 5 (FB). Forster’s Terns were present in small numbers with the first one observed in western Boone County on the rather early date of April 9 (LMc) ; two were noted at Kentucky Lake on April 12 (DN, MB), 10 birds there on April 18 (BPB, DP) ; one bii’d below McAlpine Dam on April 19 (LR) ; about 15 at Barren River Lake on April 29 (KOS) ; three at McElroy Lake on April 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 69 30 (BPB, DP) and one there on May 20 (BBC). Six Least Terns were seen on Mitchell Lake, BWMA on May 21 and were the only ones reported (BBC). Black Terns were observed in numbers only at McElroy Lake, where the species was present May 5 through May 29 (BPB), and highest counts there were 90-100 birds on May 26 (Gary Boggs fide BPB) and 30 on May 20 (BF). A flock of 10 birds was seen on Lake Barkley above the dam on May 20 (BBC) and two birds were seen at a slough in Mercer County on May 10 (FL, WK) and one at Dix Dam on May 27 (WK). Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — Two Black-billed Cuckoos were seen at Joe Creason Park, Louisville on May 7 (JB, PB, BPB) and one on SHF, May 17 (BPB). Also, a pair with two young were discovered at Joe Creason Park on May 24 — a new breeding locale (AB). Yellow-billed Cuckoos were also scarce, or observers failed to mention them. A few sightings were made in the Danville area (FL, WK), Barren River State Resort Park (KOS), at Green River in southern Ohio County (BE, GE), and in Calloway County ( fide CP). This species has shown some decrease locally in recent years. A young Great Horned Owl fledged from the nest about May 5 in Mercer County (FL) and two young were observed in Joe Creason Park during May (JB, PB). This was an interesting spring for seeing Short-eared Owls. One bird was observed in LaRue County on March 5 (SC) ; a pair noted in the Ohio River bottom in Livingston County, five miles north of Bayou on the late date of April 9 (BPB) ; numerous on Peabody’s Homestead Mine in southern Ohio County all through March with a high count of 31 birds on March 13 (KC) and 25 there on April 4 (KC) ; three birds were seen as late as April 25 (KC). A nest with five young Short-eared Owls was found in southern Ohio County on the Peabody Homestead Mine on May 18 (S) and established Kentucky’s first breeding record for this species. A second nest was found in Muhlenberg County on May 25 (BPB, AB). (More details of these nests in the nesting season report) . A Northern Saw-whet Owl was found impaled on a barbed wire fence in northern Lyon County by Major Guess. The bird was turned over to the Land Between the Lakes Nature Center on March 18. The owl was rehabilitated and released in LBL (Ed Ray fide BPB) . An interesting and noteworthy record was that of two Red- cockaded Woodpeckers observed in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Whitley County on May 7 (Steve Kickert, JE1). Flycatchers through Swallows — Single Olive-sided Flycatchers were found in three locations: Calloway County on May 6 (JTE, R. Head fide CP), one near Hamlin, Calloway County on May 21 (BBC) and in the vicinity of the Louisville Country Club on May 28 (AB). Eastern Wood- Pewees were late in arriving and were first recorded in the vicinity of Barren River on April 29 (KOS). Single Yellow-bellied Flycatchers were noted at Danville on May 15 (FL) and at Joe Creason Park on May 18 (AB) and at least two were seen well and heard on SHF on May 24 (BPB). Two Alder Flycatchers were heard singing their ‘wee-bee-o’ song on SHF on May 17 (AB). Also, a Willow Flycatcher was heard there on May 24 (BPB) and singing birds were noted near Petersburg, Boone County, May 25 (LMc). What happened to the Least Flycatcher? Did observers fail to report them, or was the species scarce? Only single birds were reported at Louisville on May 18 (AB), and in Morgan County on May 12 (ME, GE). Horned Larks were found on reclaimed strip mine land during the period in Morgan (ME, GE), Ohio (BE, TE, KC, et al.) and Muhlenberg counties, with the earliest observed on March 27 (JH) in the latter county. 70 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 The first Purple Martins returned to Brigadoon Farm, Barren County (RS) and Leitchfield, Grayson County on March 25 (KC, A. Wilson), but arrival dates were much later elsewhere and numbers were reduced. The earliest Tree Swallow was noted in southern Ohio County on March 11 (R. Healy, R. Cassel, BPB) and another at MCFH on March 14 (FB), providing Kentucky with its earliest spring dates. The species was wide¬ spread (m. ob.) and the largest concentration occurred at MCFH on April 5 with 350 birds (FB). The Northern Rough-winged Swallow elicited few comments, but two birds arrived early at Pulaski County Park on March 22 (JE1) and established an early state date. A Bank Swallow at the same site and date was also an early arrival (JE1). Although Cliff Swal¬ lows were reported from Morgan and Rowan counties in the east to Callo¬ way in the west, the only concentration observed was the “hundreds — too numerous to count” under two bridges on Rough River, Grayson County on April 4 (KC). This species arrived later than normal. Apparently a late movement of swallows was noted at McElroy Lake on the evening of May 7 where a concentration of 1000 was present. This group included “lots of Barn and Bank Swallows and a smaller number of Purple Martins, and at least one Cliff and a dozen Tree Swallows”. Strangely enough, no Rough-winged were present (BPB). Crows through Shrikes — There were several interesting sightings of the Fish Crow: two birds at both Kentucky and Barkley Dams and also heard along Little Bayou de Chen in Fulton County on April 8 (BPB, CP, JTE) ; along the Ohio River in bottoms just below Smithland, and in bottoms adjacent to Smithland Dam, on April 9 and at BWMA May 3-4 (BPB). In Letcher County, at Bad Branch, a pair of Common Ravens nested again and were observed on April 14 (BPB); and one was heard calling at Natural Bridge State Park, May 5 (JB, PB). There were two reports of Bewick’s Wrens: one at Madisonville April 26 (JH) and one in Hart County on May 13 (MS). A Sedge Wren was heard calling in rural Ballard County near BWMA on May 21 (BBC) and another heard in western Ohio County on May 26 (BPB). A Marsh Wren was seen along Mitchell Lake, BWMA on May 3, 4 and 21 (BPB, BBC, respectively). The Catharus thrush migration apparently was below normal, or went unnoticed. The few reports indicated their migration occurred primarily April 29-May 15. The Swainson’s Thrush was the most common of the transient thrushes in the Madisonville area (JH). A Veery at Lyndon, Jefferson County on April 23 was the earliest of the few reported (PK). Wood thrushes were scarce in some locations while American Robins were numerous. Gray Catbirds arrived on schedule, but numbers were low. Water Pipits are rarely seen in the Danville area, but were observed there on a number of occasions including one at the slough in Mercer County (no date given — FL, WK). The species was numerous at both Chaney and McElroy Lakes and peaked with 150 birds at McElroy in late March and up to 100 there in late April; one was still present at Chaney on May 14 (BPB). The Cedar Waxwing migration was well underway in east Louisville, where flocks of at least 1500 congregated April 23 (DN), while March migration was evident at Madisonville where a flock of 175 gathered March 17 (JH) ; and smaller groups remained for several days. Cedar Waxwings were still in flocks at BPS the last of May (KC) and groups of 25 were noted regularly at Cave City and at Mammoth Cave National Park (MS). Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from only four counties: Barren, Calloway, Ohio and Mercer. Vireos through Warblers — There were few comments on the Vireos. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 71 White-eyed Vireos were first recorded at Madisonville on April 16 (JH) ; fair numbers were seen in Calloway County on May 6 (m. ob.). New breeding' locations for the Bell’s Vireo included Muhlenberg and Ohio counties with an active nest in each county thus extending its nesting range ESE of the previously known colony in Union County (BPB, AB). Solitary, Yellow-throated and Red-eyed Vireos were present at Bernheim Forest on April 22 (BM). High numbers of Philadelphia Vireos were seen at Joe Creason Park (no date given — JB, PB). There were mixed comments on the warbler migration and ranged from “poor” to “wonderful”. A Blue-winged Warbler arrived at BPS on March 27 and established an early state date (KC). Six male Golden¬ winged Warblers were seen at both BWMA and LBL May 3 and 4, respectively (BPB). Two male Brewster’s Warblers were seen at BWMA on May 3 (BPB). Fifteen Tennessee Warblers were seen at Mammoth Cave National Park on April 27 in a two and one-half hour period (MS), while 28 species of warblers were observed in the Barren River area by KOS members April 29. Single Orange-crowned Warblers were present on two dates in LBL, April 18 (BPB, DP) and May 3 (BPB) ; and three were at Joe Creason Park during the period (no date given — JB, PB). The Yellow-throated Warbler was reported as declining within the county (Hopkins) partly due to destruction of habitat (JH). Two Pine Warblers were recorded at BPS on March 5-27 (KC) ; also present on March 12 in Morgan County (ME, GE) ; and at Madisonville March 14-May (JH). A Swainson’s Warbler was heard singing at Breaks Interstate Park, Pike County on April 29 (ME, GE) ; also, one heard singing along Panther Creek, Calloway County on May 4 (BPB, JTE). High numbers of Northern Waterthrushes were observed in Joe Creason Park (JB, PB), and four to seven Louisiana Waterthrushes were found along North Fork in Morgan County, where some were nesting on April 7 (ME, GE). A Connecticut Warbler was heard in Oldham County on May 14 (S, FS) and one noted at SHF on May 17 (BPB). Single Mourning Warblers were found in three different locations in the Louisville area on May 13 and 17 (BPB), May 19 (JB, PB) ; and in Mercer County on May 20 (FL, WK). Tanagers through Finches — Scarlet Tanagers showed up at Bernheim Forest on April 22 and in Morgan County on April 23 and high numbers in early May at Joe Creason Park and there were several May records in the Madisonville area where it is a rare summer resident. Six Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were noted at BPS as early as April 4 (KC) ; and high numbers were at Joe Creason Park (JB, PB). Small numbers of Blue Grosbeaks were reported only from the Danville area (FL), southern Ohio County (KC, S, BF et ah), and in Calloway County (fide CP). Indigo Buntings were considered common in Davies County on May 14 (BE). Dickcissels seemed on the low side and late in arriving with the earliest observed near Petersburg May 6 (LMc). The sparrow migration was also late. Two Bachman’s Sparrows were noted at the regular location in Calloway County on May 6 (JTE fide CP). A Clay-colored Sparrow at SHF on May 17 provided Kentucky with its second record (BPB, BM, DP) (photo and good documentations). Small numbers of Vesper Sparrows were present at Louisville, SWMA and on the Homestead Mine during the noimal period of migration (BPB) and a small group of Savannah Sparrows was seen on Chamberlain Lane, Louisville on May 10 (S, FS). Grasshopper Sparrow migration was noted on the Homestead Mine on April 18 when about 50 birds were seen (KC). A singing colony of Henslow’s was discovered in extreme western Ohio County on Peabody’s Ken Mine on May 26 (AB, BPB) ; and a single 72 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 bird heard singing on Peabody’s Sinclair Mine in Muhlenberg County on May 18, but could not be relocated (BPB). A noteworthy record was the Sharp-tailed Sparrow at McElroy Lake where it was observed for some 20 minutes on May 20 (BBC). One to two Fox Sparrows were noted at four widely scattered locations March 18 to March 30 (JK, MB, KC, LMc). One or two Lincoln Sparrows were recorded in the Danville area on May 13 (FL) and at West Liberty, Morgan County May 12 (ME). The Dark¬ eyed Junco was last recorded at Madisonville on April 26 (JH). Two Lapland Longspurs were rather late as they flew overhead at McElroy Lake on March 25 (BPB). The Bobolink migration was good and widespread from May 3-11. The earliest concentration was at Science Hill with a peak of 50 -j- birds on May 6 (JE1). Other sizeable flocks included 100 in Calloway County on May 6 (MM), 200 there on May 7 (CP), 35-50 at Louisville (S, FS) and 50+ in Bowling Green (BPB); and smaller groups elsewhere. A small group of Brewer’s Blackbirds was present in farmland at Bowling Green on March 25-April 10 and a single male noted at SHF on March 26 (BPB). Purple Finches were only numerous at BPS where 75 gathered on March 12-19 (KC). One bird lingered at a feeder in Hopkins County until May 20 (B. West fide JH). There were two reports of Evening Grosbeaks: one at West Liberty on March 26 (ME, GE) and one in Calloway County on May 5 (C. Mowery fide CP). House Finches were again common at Louisville (S) and at Madisonville (JLI); and one bird was heard singing in Whitesburg, Letcher County for probably a new county record (BPB). Addenda — The two to three Long-eared Owls which were seen in southern Ohio County January 8-29 (BPB, KC et al.) and the five in eastern Muhlenberg County on February 11 (BPB) were inadvertently omitted from The Winter Season, 1988-89 {Kij. Warbler, 65:36, 1989). Contributors — Alan Barron (AB), Mary B. Bauer (MB), Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Robert K. Brown (RB), Fred Busroe (FB), H. L. Clay, Jr. (HLC), Kathryn Clay (KC), Susan L. Cruse (SC), Brenda Eaden (BE) , Tony Eaden (TE), Diane Ebel (DE), Gary Elam (GE), Mary K. Elam (ME), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Joe Tom Erwin (JTE), Blaine Ferrell (BF) , J. W. Hancock (JH), Judi Jones (JJ), Wm. Kemper (WK), P. Klemenz (PK), Wendell Kingsolver (WK), Virginia Kingsolver (VK), Frank H. Krull (FK), John Krull (JK), Colin H. Lindsay (CL), Frederick Loetseher (FL), Tim Love (TL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Barry Nichols (BN), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Donald Parker (DP), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Jim Williams (JW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241 BALD EAGLE COUNT FOR 1989 IN KENTUCKY David Yancy, James Durell and Lynda Andrews The target dates of January 13-14 for the 1989 eagle census were within the time frame of January 5-19 set for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Waterfowl census. Weather was mild, with little or no ice. A total of 207 Bald Eagles and one immature Golden Eagle was reported. Immature eagles increased from 60 to 75 (still 36%), while mature birds increased from 104 to 129. The two-year decline was reversed, yielding the highest count except in 1984 and 1986 when Reelfoot Lake was frozen. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 73 The mild winter did not keep the eagles farther north as presumed in earlier years. Again, Barlow Bottoms near the confluence of the Ohio and Missis¬ sippi Rivers, and Obion and Mayfield Creek bottoms were not censused. These were very productive in 1984. Table 1 summarizes the 1989 census data and comparisons with some earlier high records. Ten parties reported 283 other raptors. Counts for 1988, 1987 and 1986 are in parentheses: Black Vulture 7 (0, 16, 0) ; Turkey Vulture 9 (0, 1, 0) ; Northern Harrier 5 (1, 6, 7) ; Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 (3, 1, 2); Cooper’s Hawk 3 (0, 2, 0); Red-shouldered Hawk 5 (3, 1, 3); Red-tailed Plawk 143 (55, 40, 68); Rough-legged Hawk 1 (2, 4, 3) ; American Kestrel 108 (57, 99, 105) and Common Barn Owl 1. Table 1. Kentucky Bald Eagle Census, January 5-19, 1989 and some comparisons with earlier high counts. EARLIER HIGH ROUTE 1989 RECORDS Ad. Imm. Total Number Year LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES 35 21 56 67 1987 MISSISSIPPI RIVER 31 20 51 72 1984 OHIO RIVER, Wickliffe to north Livingston Co. (Carrsville) 9 3 121 89 1986 OHIO RIVER, Carrsville-Owensboro 10 4 14- 13 1989 OHIO RIVER, Battletown-Louisville 2 2 5 1986 OHIO RIVER, Louisville-Markland Dam 3 1 1987 BERNHEIM FOREST 1 1 1 1989 ROUGH RIVER LAKE 1 1 NOLIN RIVER LAKE 1 1 1 1989 BARREN RIVER LAKE 1 2 3 3 1989 GREEN RIVER LAKE 3 2 5 12 1986 DALE HOLLOW 19 16 384 38 1989 LAKE CUMBERLAND ... 3 3 14? 1983 CUMBERLAND R. DAM to Burkesville .. 2 2 8 1986 CAVE RUN LAKE ... 4 6 10 10 1989 GRAYSON LAKE 1 1 1 1989 LAUREL LAKE 5 5 9 1985 MARTIN’S FORK ... 2 2 3 1988 TOTAL 129 75 207 + 1 Includes eight eagles at Ballard Waterfowl Area. 2 One immature Golden Eagle. Three Golden Eagles were reported at Mammoth Cave on December 29. 3 Adult seen with immature tagged eagle from Monroe Reservoir, Indiana, December 17 above Markland Dam. 4 Includes three Bald Eagles of unknown age. Assistance of 115 participants in 63 parties is gratefully acknowledged. These volunteers represented the Kentucky Ornithological Society, federal and state Fish and Wildlife agencies, Tennessee Valley Authority, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Kentucky Department of Parks, Audubon Society, Bernheim Forest, Owens¬ boro Area Museum and Indiana Department of Natural Resources. — Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Frankfort 40601 and the Kentucky Ornithological Society, 1027 Algonquin, Frankfort. 74 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 BOOK REVIEW ANNOTATED CHECKLIST OF THE BIRDS OF KENTUCKY, by Bui’t L. Monroe, Jr., Anne L. Stamm and Brainard L. Palmer-Ball, Jr.; illustrated by Ray Harm, Alan Barron and Sherri Evans. (Published by K.O.S., 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, Kentucky 40241) 84 pp. $6.00 ($5.00 for K.O.S. members) plus 5% sales tax for Kentucky residents. This long-awaited publication is the most useful contribution to Ken¬ tucky ornithology since the publication of The Birds of Kentucky by Robert Mengel in 1965. The three coauthors are active birders and well qualified to produce this work. Dr. Monroe, a noted authority on avian taxonomy and evolution, was the compiler of Summary of Occurrence of Birds of Kentucky, published in 1969. Mrs. Stamm has compiled the seasonal reports for The Kentucky Warbler for several years and is the Kentucky subregional editor for American Birds. Mr. Palmer-Ball, Jr. has been a state coordinator for the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas Project and has extensive experience in the field. The purpose of the publication being- reviewed here is “to update the occurrence and abundance of Kentucky’s birdlife.” The introduction includes two Kentucky maps, the first showing sites referred to in the text and the second showing the avifaunal regions. The terminology used in describing bird species in the state and their levels of abundance and conservation status are clearly defined in the introduction. It is difficult to precisely describe abundance and distribution because of habitat variation, climatic change, migration, manipulation by man and other factors. A good example of this difficulty and of the careful effort to give adequate information may be seen in the description of the Dick- cissel on pages 54 and 55. This annotated checklist consists of two major sections, the species accounts and the bar graphs. The checklist includes 340 bird species, including eight extinct or extirpated species and six introduced species. In addition 10 species are placed on a hypothetical list. There is even a list of 10 species which may be recorded in Kentucky in the future, with sug¬ gestions as to where they are most likely to occur. The species accounts provide a storehouse of information on abundance, distribution, habitat preference, etc. The excerpt of the description of the House Wren is in¬ serted below as an example. The asterisk preceding the name indicates that the species breeds in Kentucky. “*HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon). — Fairly common to common transient, locally rare to fairly common summer resident, extremely rare in winter. Recorded statewide in migration in a great variety of habitats with brushy cover. Breeding locally throughout the state except the southernmost counties and portions of the Cumberland Plateau and Moun¬ tains; most often found near human habitations, but also occurs in other semi-open habitats. This species has been expanding its breeding range to the south, formerly (1920) nesting only along the northern counties ( Mengel : 343-345 ; Stamm, KW 27:47-56, 1951). There are several winter reeords from scattered localities in central Kentucky, but the species does not regularly overwinter in the state.” Considerable emphasis is placed on conservation, both at the state and federal levels. The terms “endangered, threatened, special concern, and category 2” are used to indicate conservation status, and these terms are defined in the introduction. The bar graphs comprise nine pages of the publication. By the use of an asterisk and a numbering system for the four avifaunal regions, the 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 75 authors have shown the region or regions in which a species is found and also the region or regions in which a species breeds. Each month of the year is included in the bar graph, and earliest and latest dates of occur¬ rence for each species are inserted. Abundance (common, fairly common, uncommon, rare and extremely rare) is indicated by the degree of shading of the bar and by the use of dots. It is somewhat difficult to see the printed distinction between common, fairly common, and uncommon on some of the bars. Color would have added to the clarity of the bars but would have also added to the cost of the publication. It would be helpful if the bar graph could be published later as a separate entity so that it could be inserted in a field guide. Some questions and statements concerning the ability of others to identify birds in the field are made when they do not appear to add any information to the text, but this is the prerogative of the writer. Close scrutiny of all reported sightings is desirable and strengthens reliability. Very few errors were noted in the text, and they were of a minor nature, such as “covies” instead of coveys. We are indebted to the authors for searching through the mass of ornithological data which has accumulated through the years and for correcting errors made by writers, editors and printers. One not acquainted with this type of research is not aware of the time and effort involved. Much information has been presented in a space-saving format, and the reader has been provided with an instrument for quickly determining the occurrence, distribution, breeding status, habitat preference and conserva¬ tion status of the birds of Kentucky. — H. E. SHADOWEN, Biology Department, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101. FIELD NOTES FIRST BREEDING RECORD OF THE SHORT-EARED OWL IN KENTUCKY The Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) has been considered an uncom¬ mon to rare transient and winter resident in Kentucky. The dates of its occurrence have been October 10-March 17 and on occasion as late as April 13 and 24 (B.L. Monroe, Jr., et al. 1988, Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky) . During the fall of 1988 and early winter of 1989, however, the Short-eared Owl was present in unusually large numbers in extreme southern Ohio County on reclaimed strip mine land owned by Peabody Coal Company. Clay counted as many as 25 owls still present on April 4, 1989. A few owls remained throughout April and early May. We knew that this owl migrates both “regularly and irregularly,” regularly in the fall when it moves out of its northern part of its range toward the south, and irregularly when it remains for two or three years where it has found a plentiful supply of food (E.H. Forbush 1929, Birds of Massachusetts and other New England States). Therefore, checking for nests seemed ad¬ visable because rodents had been observed frequently. Stamm volunteered to assist Clay in searching for a nest, and on May 18, 1989 at 7:45 a.m. CDT, we arrived at the strip mine land along Little Bend Road (east of Hwy. 369). Clay felt that we should search near the clump of Black Locust (Robinia pseudo-acacia) saplings at the right of the road where she had 76 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 previously found the owls roosting. We looked there in all the likely spots, hut without results. Brenda Eaden joined us at approximately 9:00 a.m. to help in the search. Stamm decided to check on the hillside beyond the locusts, while Clay and Eaden looked in the rolling fields to the west. The northward sloping hillside, where Stamm walked, was rather rough with gullies here and there and the vegetative cover was 12-15 inches high. After trudging through this area for about 40 minutes a Short-eared Owl flushed two feet in front of her. She watched the adult owl take off and fly at some distance before it dropped to the ground near a shrub. Then, peering over a clump of timothy grass (Phleum pratense) in front of her, she found a nest of the Short-eared Owl with five nestlings. The owls varied in size; two of the smallest ones were probably two- three days old, while the two largest ones appeared to be about six days old. The nestlings were rather naked, with downy light fuzz on their heads and backs. The two largest ones had tiny feathers about one-eighth of an inch in length about to emerge from the sheath. The nest was on bare ground situated beside a clump of timothy grass and orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata). When the adult bird was off the nest, the young were exposed to the sun and only slightly protected by a few blades of tall grass. It was surprising to find the nest out in the open and made completely of dried weed stalk and heavy grasses; it was ap¬ proximately one-quarter of a mile from the road. Other plantings in the nearby surroundings were red clover (Trifolium pratense) , white clover (T. repens), birdfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), and yellow tall clover (T. sp.). We did not visit the nest site until May 24, when we found only two nestlings. The birds had grown in size during the past six days and were then a fluffy yellow-buff color with dark brown streakings. Their faces were black with eyes open, and they showed no fear. We searched the nearby areas for the other three young, but they could not be found. When we arrived that morning before going to the nest site, we saw an adult Short¬ eared Owl perched on an iron post at some distance beyond the nest. We watched the owl from Little Bend Road and after some time saw it fly to the ground beyond the nest. We assumed it to be the male, but this was not certain. What happened to the three nestlings? Were there cannibalistic tendencies among the larger nestmates as reported by James Alder of Ponteland Newcastle-on-Tyne ( fide Collingwood Ingram, Auk, 79:715, 1962), or did the young just “secrete themselves some distance away” (E. Armstrong, Auk, 76:560, 1959)? Whatever the case, the finding of the Short-eared Owl nest established the first known breeding record for Kentucky. — ANNE L. STAMM, 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, Kentucky 40241 and KATHRYN W. CLAY, 434 Mallard Creek Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40207. LARGE CONCENTRATION OF SHORT BILLED DOWITCHERS While observing birds at a flooded field in western Boone County on May 13, 1989, I noticed a particularly large group of Short-billed Dowitchers (Limnodromus griseus). After twice counting the flock, it was determined that 102 dowitchers were present. Nearly all of the birds ap- 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 77 peared to be in breeding plumage. Small groups were flushed on several occasions in order to hear their distinctive call notes. The birds were ob¬ served from as close as 30 feet. Among other shorebirds present with this group were three Ruddy Turnstones and one White-rumped Sandpiper. Ic is believed that this flock represents the largest concentration of Short¬ billed Dowitchers recorded in a single flock in Kentucky. — LEE K. McNEELY, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005. FIRST REPORTED NESTING OF BROWN CREEPER IN KENTUCKY The Brown Creeper ( Certhia familiaris) is a fairly common transient and winter resident throughout Kentucky. In addition, there are a handful of late spring and summer records that lie beyond the normal dates of occurrence including an early June record from Murphy’s Pond, Hickman County and August records from Henderson, Jefferson and Whitley coun¬ ties (Monroe et al. 1988. Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky) . The species was reported in summer from Big Black Mountain, Harlan County, by Breiding (1947. Ky. Warbler 23:37-40), although Mengel (1965. The Birds of Kentucky, American Ornithologists’ Union Ornithological Monographs, No. 3) regarded this observation with skepticism. Small numbers of Brown Creepers have been found nesting in peima- nently inundated swamplands in several locations in southern Illinois (J. Robinson per. comm.), one location in southeastern Missouri (Widmann. 1907. Trans. Acad. Sci. St. Louis 17(1) : 1-288 ) , and several locations in west Tennessee (J. Robinson pers. comm.). These observations have prompted the speculation that the species should nest in similar habitat in western Kentucky, as well. On June 29, 1986, Palmer-Ball, Marc and Sherri Evans and Cathy Justis visited Axe Lake Swamp, located approximately three miles west of Barlow in southern Ballard County, to census the Great Blue Heron rookery there. During our census, several Brown Creepers were observed foraging in the trees of the swamp, and at least one group of no less than four individuals was observed that appeared to be a family group. Al¬ though some of these birds were followed and watched, positive evidence could not be observed. On June 2, 1988, Palmer-Ball and Haag revisited Axe Lake Swamp to census the Great Blue Heron rookery and attempt to confirm nesting of creepers there. Over the course of about six hours of observation, we were successful in locating approximately a dozen creepers including two family groups consisting of adults and fully grown young, as well as a pair of birds building a nest. Both family groups were comprised of from four to six birds. One group was studied for nearly a half-hour as the adult birds repeatedly fed the wing-fluttering fledglings as they followed the parents through the trees. Later in the day, a pair of creepers was observed carrying nesting material to a vertical opening in an old cypress snag standing in several feet of water at the edge of the swamp. The tree was dead and appeared to have been struck by lightning and burned. The nest itself was located behind a large splinter of outer wood that had separated from the inner portion of the trunk. It was built approximately six feet above the water and was composed of small sticks and stems along with other plant material. Nesting material being carried by the birds appeared to be finer and softer, indicating that the nest was nearly completed. 78 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Axe Lake Swamp itself is unique. The open water area of the lake is less than fifty acres in size, but it is surrounded by nearly five hundred acres of permanently inundated bottomland swamp. The dominant tree species is Water Tupelo (Nyssa aquatica) although there is also an abundance of Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum). This is the largest of its kind in Kentucky. It is unknown exactly what attraction is present to creepers in this habitat type in the Mississippi Valley, but the presence of a relatively unbroken canopy over such an extensive area of water may produce a cooling effect that makes summering tolerable for this northern species. These observations represent the first reported nesting of Brown Creepers in Kentucky. It would not seem unlikely that this population has been present in Axe Lake Swamp for a number of years. In addition, the late spring and summer records of creepers in various parts of western Kentucky may also indicate the occurrence of nesting in other areas. We would like to express our thanks to Mr. John Evans of the Axe Lake Swamp Hunt Club for allowing us to visit the swamp. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., and WENDELL R. HAAG, Ken¬ tucky State Nature Preserves Commission, 407 Broadway, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. PRAIRIE FALCON IN KENTUCKY Perhaps the most significant ornithological event of the winter season in Kentucky is the occurrence of a Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) at a reclaimed strip-mine site in southern Ohio County just south of Cool Springs. The bird was first seen on 12 November 1988 by Brenda and Tony Eaden and Kathryn Clay, although the observation of the flying bird was too brief to permit absolute identification (Clay, Ky. Warbler 65:23, 1989). Alerted to the possibility of a Prairie Falcon at the site, Brainard Palmer-Ball and Donald Parker visited the site on 16 December and noted the bird in flight, obtaining sufficient details to identify the bird as a Prairie Falcon. Palmer-Ball’s notes mention the dark wing-lining pattern (viewed several times), the light underparts with streaking (“not so boldly streaked as an imm. Peregrine [ Falco peregrinus]") but with very white throat, tail pattern (“medium brown, slightly reddish with the sun shining down through it with numerous dark, narrow bands”), and the noticeable “teardrop” on the face, which was “not nearly as broad and bold as a Peregrine.” A Christmas Count was established by Palmer-Ball on 26 December, primarily to take advantage of the large raptor concentration at the site; most of the 11 participants obtained at least brief (although mostly unsatisfactory) glimpses of the elusive falcon in flight (Paradise count, Ky. Warbler 65: 14). On four occasions between 31 December and 27 March 1989, Kathryn Clay (three times accompanied by Herbert Clay) noted the bird again, always in flight; on several occasions it was harassed by Northern Harriers (Circus cyaneus), and one time it stooped and caught a Horned Lark i Eremophila alpestris). During all the preceding observations, the bird was only obseiwed in flight; no satisfactory photographs had been obtained for confirmation. On 28 January, we visited the site early in the morning (8 a.m., CST) and 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 79 found the bird perched in a bare tree just west of the main highway (Ky. 369) through the site. With bright sunlight at our backs, we ap¬ proached the bird, obtaining 19 photographs with a Vivitar 210 mm lens; unfortunately, the bird permitted an approach only to about 75 feet, at which time it darted through the trees on our right and disappeared over the hill to the southeast. The junior author obtained the photos while the senior author made careful notes of field marks (through 8x35 binoculars). When perched, the bird was facing us, and the whitish underparts with light streaking posterior to the throat were noticeable; the narrow tear¬ drop in the facial area and the light superciliary line were also evident several times whenever the bird turned its head. The bill appeared dark, but the cere area was not specifically noted, which might have been useful for aging. When the bird flew, the back appeared to be uniformly gray; the entire underwing covert area appeared dark with no discernible contrast of axillars. We could not notice any tail pattern either perched or in flight. Even in the closest photograph, the bird is quite small. Enlargement of the picture reveals faint streaking below on the light underparts, but the bird is directly facing the camera and the facial area cannot be seen. However, those features noticeable in this photograph along with the field notes serve to confirm the identification (with concurrence of Bruce Peterjohn, Middlewestern Prairie regional editor for American Birds). The latest spring record for this bird, to our knowledge, is the 27 March one listed above. These records constitute the first for the species in Kentucky. — BURT L. MONROE, JR., and MARK S. MONROE, 12204 Ridge Road, Anchorage 40223. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. FALL MEETING Please mark your calendars and plan on attending the annual fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society to be held at Cumberland Falls State Park, 22-24 September. Make your reservations for rooms early. If you have information you would like to share with the group at the Friday evening meeting, please contact Virginia Kingsolver, Program Chairperson, Route #1, Carlisle, Kentucky 40311 as soon as possible. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky OrnithologiciilQS^i^^) IN THIS ISSUE THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1989, Anne L. Stamm 83 THE K.O.S. FALL MEETING, Lee McNeely 92 REPORT OF THE TREASURER, John Krull, (Audited by F.W. Stamm) 94 FIELD NOTE . 96 NEWS AND VIEWS . 96 82 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Vice-President Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Jim Williams, Lexington Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Recording Secretary Councillors: Clell Peterson, Murray Donnie Spencer, Hazard Gary Ritchison, Richmond Jeff Jones, Bowling Green Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist . John Krull 1108 Whetstone Way, Louisville, KY 40223 Lee McNeely, Burlington 1988-1990 1988- 1990 1989- 1991 1989-1991 Fred Busroe, Morehead Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Jeff Flam for the photograph of the Roseate Spoonbill (Ajaia ajaja ) taken on July 29, 1989 at Honker Lake in the Land Between the Lakes. 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 83 THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1989 Anne L. Stamm The summer temperature in Kentucky during June was about normal while in July it averaged slightly above normal and humidity was unusually high during much of the month. Rainfall was above normal in both months over much of the state. In Bowling Green the heavy rainfall raised the water levels at McElroy and Chaney Lakes. The lakes and rivers in western Kentucky were high too, thus limiting shorebird habitat. The Falls of the Ohio was inundated for much of the summer period, causing herons to disperse and probably limiting breeding of ground nesting species until later in July. One feature of the season was that a number of birds lingered beyond their normal departure dates, and some species of ducks summered at the transient lakes. The increase in field work during the nesting season re¬ sulted in the finding of new breeding locations for some species of birds. The find of the season goes to Jeff Flam for the observation of a Roseate Spoonbill at Honker Lake in LBL. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; BBS = Breeding Bird Survey; CGNHP = Cumberland Gap National Historical Park; Duck Island WMA = Duck Island Wildlife Management Area, Trigg County on Lake Barkley; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; LP = Lake Pewee; PHSM = Peabody Homestead Surface Mine, Ohio County; Reelfoot NWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Hender¬ son County; Swan Lake WMA = Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area, Ballard County. The transient lakes are Chaney and McElroy Lakes, Bowling Green, Warren County. Grebes through Spoonbills — A Pied-billed Grebe was noted at Martin’s Fork Lake, Harlan County on June 20 (AB, AM) ; up to three birds summered at McElroy Lake, Warren County and an immature appeared there on July 4 (BPB). A single Horned Grebe, with an injured wing, was present at McElroy Lake throughout the period (BPB). Five Double- crested Cormorants were observed at McAlpine Dam, Louisville on June 10 (LR) and two were present during most of June and July at Kentucky Lake Islands near Hamlin, Calloway County (J. T. Erwin fide CP). Two Least Bitterns were observed on the cattail marsh on PHSM on July 16 iKC, HCL) and again on July 17 (KC, A. Wilson), but seven (4 adults, 3 appeared to be birds of the year) there on August 3 (BPB, AB) ; and one noted at McElroy Lake on July 16 (BPB, DP, D. Ebel). No censuses of the Great Blue Heron rookeries were taken this summer. This species was reported from various locations in the state, but the four birds at Rock Springs, Bracken County on June 8 (LMc) were of special interest since we have few records, if any, from that county. A single Great Egret was seen flying over Hebron, Boone County on June 7 (LMc) while the next report was of 100 birds observed in three ponds along the levee in Fulton County on July 17 (SK, MS); three birds at BWMA on July 28 (BPB) and fewer than usual were at Peal Land Wild¬ life Area (CP). Single post-breeding birds began showing up on July 28-30 on a slough along the Ohio River above Cairo, Illinois (BPB); and at Mayfair Basins, Louisville (LR, BPB). A single Snowy Egret was seen at Dix Dam, Mercer County on July 3 and is the first record for that area (WK, C. Kohler fide FL). Another bird observed flying over the 84 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 channel below McAlpine Dam on July 19 (LR) and at least eight noted at Swan Lake WMA, and a total of 17 in a nearby flooded slough along the Ohio River above Cairo, Illinois, Ballard County (BPB). In three ponds along the levee in Fulton County, approximately 200 Little Blue Herons (both adults and immatures) were seen on July 17 (SK, MS) ; 30 adults ctnd 20 immatures were present at BWMA on July 28, and 15 (8 adults and 7 immatures), plus two calicos were seen at Swan Lake WMA on the same date (BPB). Also, 12 immatures and one adult bird were noted at Kentucky Lake near Hamlin (no date given — J. T. Edwin fide CP) ; up to six immatures and four adults observed near Shippingport Island and the Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County on July 18-28 (LR) ; and one at Duck Island WMA, Trigg County on Lake Barkley on July 28 (BPB). Although there was no mention of breeding Cattle Egrets, several small groups were observed as follows: four in flight in Graves County on July 10 (CP), 11 in Hickman County on July 19 (CP); two or three at Peal Land Wildlife Area during most of the period (CP) and small groups in Ballard/Carlisle counties on July 28 (BPB). A pair of Green-backed Herons nested at BPS (KC) ; singles were observed at Wysox Lake, Ohio County and at Caneyville, Grayson County on June 18 and 19, respectively (KC) ; and one to three birds at three locations in Jefferson County July 15-29 (LR). The species continued to remain in low numbers. The high water on the Ohio River at Louisville caused the Black-crowned Night- Herons to disperse all over the Louisville area. Although small numbers were seen feeding along the shores of Lake Barkley, Trigg/Lyon counties, the Lake Barkley rookery was abandoned when visited on July 27. It was assumed the rookery had relocated elsewhere on the lake (BPB) since Black-crown’s continued to be numerous on the lake. An adult Black- crowned Night-Heron was also observed at McElroy Lake on June 29 (BPB). Three nests of the Yellow-crowned Night-Heron were found in a new location in the Louisville area, Jefferson County on June 15: one nest had five young, another had two young and the third nest had adults nearby, but the nest contents could not be seen because of the heavy foliage (KC). Also, adults and immatures were seen during late July in southern Jefferson County near the Outer Loop Landfill (T. Love, M. Stinson) and to the NE off Fern Valley Road (DP fide BPB), and one noted at the Falls of the Ohio on July 28 (LR). There was no report of the small colony of Yellow-crowned Night-Herons at Lexington. The surprise of the summer was the finding of a Roseate Spoonbill at Honker Lake in LBL on July 29 by Jeff Flam. This is, of course, the first record for Kentucky. The bird apparently only stayed for a short time as it could not be found on July 30, but was observed again in the general area by a couple from Florida on August 18 (W. Brines). See photograph on cover page. Waterfowl — Canada Geese were noted with young at East Bend and at Union, Boone County during the period (LMc) and a pair raised young this summer at McElroy Lake (BPB). Wood Ducks had a good year. Adult birds with young were found at Mammoth Cave National Park (MS), Petersburg and East Bend in Boone County (LMc), near Wellsburg, Bracken County (LMc), Big Pond Sanctuary (KC), McElroy and Chaney Lakes (BPB), numerous small young at Reelfoot NWR (CP), and a brood at Marsh Creek, McCreary County — an uncommon Cumberland Plateau nesting record (BPB). American Black Ducks summered at McElroy Lake (BPB). A Mallard nest with five eggs was found at the edge of a private lake in Ten Broeck, Jefferson County on June 9, but was abandoned later with seven eggs (S, FS). Numerous broods were observed at McElroy Lake and a few at Chaney Lake (BPB). An adult male Green-winged Teal lingered at a slough near Harrodsburg, Mercer County and was still present on June 8 (WK fide FL). Ten to 12 broods of young Blue-winged 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 85 Teal were raised at McElroy Lake during the period and although no young were found on Chaney Lake, some adults remained there throughout the summer (BPB). The Blue-winged Teal was also found nesting in two new counties: Simpson and Trigg (BPB). A pair of Northern Shovelers lingered at McElroy Lake until June 13, and four birds showed up at the transient lakes on the early date of July 22 (BPB). Nonbreeding waterfowl provided some unusual records. Noteworthy summering reports at McElroy Lake included at least three Gadwall (a pair and a lone drake) and two male American Wigeons through early July (BPB), a Ring-necked Duck (drake — perhaps injured) throughout June and July (BPB), three Lesser Scaups (a pair and a lone drake) throughout June and July (BPB), and five Lesser Scaup at Towhead Island along the Ohio River at Louisville in mid-July (Kerry Prather), but only one observed there on July 30 (BPB), and a female Bufflehead, apparently with an injured wing, at McElroy Lake throughout June and July (BPB). A single Hooded Mer¬ ganser (“thought to be a first-year male”) was seen at McElroy Lake throughout June and July (BPB). Two Ruddy Ducks lingered at McElroy Lake through June 6 (BPB). Hawks — Two downy young Black Vultures were found in an aban¬ doned house about three miles WNW of Epleys in northern Todd County on June 7 (BPB). Noteworthy sightings of the Black Vulture included two birds over White Rocks in CGNHP, Harlan County on June 17 (BPB), single birds on two occasions in southeastern McCreary County near Wolf Knob (BPB, Lee Andrews), two birds near Wellsburg, Bracken County on June 8, and one near Fiskburg, Kenton County on June 10, (LMc). A Turkey Vulture nest with two downy young was found on June 7 along a cliffline, 0.9 mile SW of Mt. Vernon Church and approximately three miles NNW of Sharon Grove in northern Todd County (BPB). Eleven Turkey Vultures were seen in the vicinity of Bondurant, Fulton County on July 7 and seven in Calloway County on Jue 24 (CP). Of the three Osprey nests which were built in the LBL area and on Lake Barkley, one was not used, one near Empire Farm fledged two birds (CP) and one was still being attended by adults in late July (Ed. Ray fide BPB). A single Osprey was noted soaring over Rough River near Harrell Bend on June 9 (BPB). Six Mississippi Kites were reported in southern Fulton County on June 17 (SK, MS); and two were seen along Obion Creek, Hickman County on June 19. The latter two may have been a nesting pair since “both perched near us and seemed to be carrying food” (CP). An adult Bald Eagle was reported west of Lake Pewee, Hopkins County on July 13 (G. James fide JH). The Northern Harrier nest found on the Peabody Coal Company’s Sinclair Surface Mine in eastern Muhlenberg County on May 26 reported in the Spring Season Report 1989 (Kij. War., 65:65, 1989) was checked on June 8 and found abandoned (BPB). Also, the nest of five downy young located on Peabody’s Coal Company Ken Surface Mine in western Ohio County on May 26 previously reported (same references as above) was not visited until July 16, but no evidence of the nest or young were found (BPB). Other harriers reported included a male east of Nelson in eastern Muhlenberg County on May 26 (AB, BPB) ; another in northern Todd County on June 7; a pair in eastern McLean County on June 15 and in northern Ohio County during the period — no date given — (BPB). It was interesting to note that four to six Northern Harriers were seen going to roost on the Homestead Mine in southern Ohio County on July 10 and again on July 24 (KC, HCL). An adult Sharp-shinned Hawk feeding young was reported from 1.25 miles east of Skyline, Letcher County on July 22 (AB), while adult singles were observed 1.25 miles south of Chad, Harlan County on June 21 (AB), south of Winifred, Johnson County, July 17 (AB), north of Dunlap, Pike County on July 27 (AB), and in eastern 86 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 McCreary County, approximately 1.5 miles NNW of Hollyhill on July 7 (BPB) and from Wolf Knob, in southeastern McCreary County on June 21 (Lee Andrews fide BPB). Cooper’s Hawks apparently had a good year and were widespread during this period. A nest with at least three young was found in a pine plantation about 1.5 miles SW of Pottertown, Calloway County on June 25 (BPB); two fledglings begging for food near Rural, Pike County on July 31 (AB) ; a fledgling 3 miles west of Helton, Leslie County on July 24 (AB); two young at BPS during July (KC) ; and an immature noted 2.5 miles west of Mare Creek (Stanville) on July 14 (AB). There were numerous sightings of adult Cooper’s Hawks made in the following counties: Edmonson/Grayson County line, Warren, Butler, Met¬ calfe, Green, Ohio, Taylor, Boone, Grayson, and Johnson. Also, three fledglings (Accipiter spp. probably Cooper’s) just out of the nest, were seen just NW of Pigeon, Floyd County on July 14 (AB). Red-shouldered Hawks were reported only from near Carrollton, Carroll County on June 24 (LMc). A nest of Broad-winged Hawks containing young birds was found along Little South Fork Cumberland River near Green Ford Church in Wayne County on July 6 (BPB). Single Broad-wings sighted in the following counties: Boone (two locations), Carroll (LMc), Pulaski (JE1), and Fulton (CP) during June and July were probably breeding birds. Active nests of Red-tailed Hawks were found in two locations in Boone County during the spring (LMc). The species was seen regularly in southern Ohio County (KC, HLC); two at the transient lakes on July 27 (KC et al.) ; and frequently in the Ten Broeck area in east Louisville (S, FS). American Kestrels remain fairly common; adults were observed feeding young at Mallard Creek Crossing, Louisville on June 2 (KC); at least 13 on the Homestead Mine area, with some feeding young on July 17 (KC, A. Wilson). Grouse through Coots — Three male Ruffed Grouse were still heard drumming in McCreary County on July 7 (BPB). Two of the Common Moor¬ hens that were found on the cattail marsh on the Peabody Homestead Sur¬ face Mine in southern Ohio County during May apparently remained to nest as four half-grown downy young were seen there on July 16 (BPB, DP, D. Ebel). A Wild Turkey was seen on Cumberland Mountain near Hensley Settlement in CGNHP, Bell County on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell). At least five non-breeding American Coots summered at McElroy Lake and two birds summered on the cattail marsh on the Homestead Surface Mine, southern Ohio County (BPB). Shorebirds — As usual, some late spring migrants lingered well into June. Small numbers of fall migrants began appearing by late June and early July, particularly at the transient lakes. There were no large concen¬ tration of shorebirds reported this season with the exception of Killdeers at Louisville and McElroy Lake. Habitat was limited. The water levels in western Kentucky were too high for good habitat, and the Falls of the Ohio was inundated for much of the period, but by mid-July some of the rock ledge was exposed. Chaney Lake was just right for shorebirds by the end of July while McElroy was still a little too high. A Lesser Golden- Plover was observed on the shore of McElroy Lake on June 13 and was unusually late in its northward movement (BPB). A Semipalmated Plover lingered at McElroy Lake until June 6 while the first fall migrant appeared at nearby Chaney Lake on July 22 (BPB). One hundred and four Kill¬ deers were seen at Wave Rock, Louisville on July 18 (LR) and 100 + observed around McElroy Lake, where large numbers nested (BPB). Three Greater Yellowlegs had reached McElroy Lake by July 4 (BPB, AB) and 12 Lesser Yellowlegs were seen there as early as June 29, with a larger 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 87 number of birds on smaller bodies of water nearby on July 16 (BPB). A Lesser Yellowlegs remained at McElroy Lake throughout the summer; its wing- drooped slightly but it could fly well (BPB). A single Solitary Sandpiper returned to McElroy Lake on July 4 and numbers increased in the area by July 16 (BPB). An adult Willet at Duck Island WMA on Lake Barkley, Trigg County on July 27 was the only one reported (BPB et al.). Three Spotted Sandpipers summered at McElroy Lake and although a pair was seen copulating on June 6 and two males observed performing courtship flights, no nest or young were located (BPB). Up to four were present at the Falls of the Ohio by July 30. Two Upland Sandpipers (one a bird of the year) were noted at Chaney Lake on July 28 and four Sander- lings were present at the Falls of the Ohio on July 23 (BPB). Spring migrant Semipalmated Sandpipers (5 birds) lingered at McElroy Lake until June 6. Fall migrants (approximately 10 birds) arrived at Chaney Lake on July 22 (BPB). A single “peep” was noted at McElroy Lake on June 19 and appeared to be a Least, but identification was unconfirmed. Fall migrant Least Sandpipers returned to Chaney Lake as early as July 16 (BPB). White-rumped Sandpipers lingered at McElroy Lake until June 13 when 15 were still observed there (BPB). Small numbers of Pectoral Sandpipers arrived in southern Warren County, a couple miles north of the transient lakes on July 16 (BPB, D. Ebel, D. Parker), and at SWMA, Henderson County on July 23 (LR). Six Stilt Sandpipers were seen at the transient lakes on July 23 (JE1). Single Short-billed Dowitchers ap¬ peared at McElroy Lake throughout July with the earliest there on July 4 (BPB); five were seen but not heard at McElroy on July 22 (BBC) and a pair was seen and heard calling at Duck Island WMA on July 27 (BPB). A single Common Snipe was carefully studied at McElroy Lake on June 19 and is our first June record for Kentucky (BPB). A Red¬ necked Phalarope was observed on McElroy Lake on July 4 (BPB, AB). Gulls through Terns — Two Laughing Gulls were reported: one second-year bird below Me Alpine Dam on July 7 (LR) and an adult on Lake Barkley above the dam on July 27 (BPB). A few Ring-billed Gulls were scattered about on Lake Barkley above the dam on July 27 and two were observed at Towhead Island on the Ohio River at Louisville on July 30 (BPB and with D. Ebel on the latter date). A second-year Herring Gull was noted at the Falls of the Ohio on July 23 (BPB). The only Forster’s Tern reported was an adult at Mitchell Lake, BWMA on July 28 (BPB). Least Terns had difficulty with nesting since the Mississippi River rose above normal levels in late June. Sandbars were inundated and John Smith of the Missouri Department of Conservation reported that more than 300 of over 500 documented nests were lost (fide BPB). On July 28 at least three adults and three juvenile Least Terns were seen on a slough next to the Ohio River above Cairo, Illinois, and 15 birds including at least 5 juveniles were noted below Smithland Dam, and six adult birds were at Mitchell Lake, BWMA (BPB). Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — No nests of the Black-billed Cuckoo were found, but interesting records were reported : one bird heard calling- on a reclaimed strip mine in eastern McLean County, 1.25 miles ENE of Island on June 15, and another found in rural farmland approximately 2.0 miles NE of Beaver Dam in Ohio County on June 28 (BPB). Both of these sightings were in areas where the birds had not been previously recorded in summer. Nest building of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo was observed at Green River, near Rochester Dam, in southern Ohio County (BE, TE) ; a young fledgling was seen at BPS on July 13 (KC, HLC). A Great Horned Owl nest with two young was found near Burlington, Boone County in 88 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 late March (T. Stephens fide LMc). The Short-eared Owl nest found on May 25 as listed in the Spring Season Report, 1989 (Ky. War., 65:69, 1989) was found with six downy young on the Peabody Coal Company’s Sinclair Surface Mine in eastern Muhlenberg County, near Paradise (AB, BPB). The nest was checked on June 8 and found empty, however, a “defensive owl was flying in the vicinity” (BPB). In southern Ohio County on the Homestead Mine both Dr. and Mrs. Clay and Palmer-Ball reported seeing small groups of three to five young Short-eared Owls with an adult in mid-June and mid-July and were believed to be family groups. Also, late in the evening on July 16 a Short-eared Owl was seen harrassing a female Red-tailed Hawk that was sitting on a telephone pole (KC) on the Home¬ stead Mine. Chuck-will’s-widows were heard calling during June at BPS (KC) and heard along Little South Fork Cumberland River near Erwin, Wayne County on July 19 (BPB). A nest of Whip-poor-wills containing one egg was found in late May in Grant County. The nest held two eggs on June 3 and one egg had hatched by mid-June (Joe and Kathy Caminiti fide LMc); four birds were heard at BPS during June (KC). A few ob¬ servers wondered where the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were this sea¬ son since their feeders were not visited. However, two pairs were seen coming to a feeder at Science Hill, Pulaski County (JE1) ; six birds at BPS (KC), a nest under construction near Carrolton, Carroll County on June 24 (LMc), several birds fed at feeders at the Nature Center in LBL, and up to SO were noted at feeders in a yard in Cadiz, Trigg County (WB). Red-headed Woodpeckers received mixed reports from “making a comeback” in central Kentucky to “seemed scarce” in northern Kentucky. Active nests of the Red-cockaded were located at least two sites in southern Daniel Boone National Forest (Steve Phillips fide BPB). Flycatchers through Horned Larks — A fair number of Willow Fly¬ catchers were reported during the period. They were observed at the Cincinnati Airport on June 5 and throughout June and July at Petersburg, Boone County (LMc) where at least three singing males were heard and adults were feeding young out of the nest on July 20 (LMc). A territorial male and nest under construction were located on a reclaimed strip mine in eastern McLean County, 1.25 miles ENE of Island on June 15 for a new county nesting record (BPB); also “a singing, apparently territorial male” on June 27 along Caney Creek, near Steff, Grayson County (BPB) ; and two singing birds at Fouimile, Bell County on June 14, probably a new location (AB, A. Mullen). Two singing Least Flycatchers and one silent bird was observed between them at Chenoa (1400 feet elevation) in Bell County on June 7, 9, and 18 (AB); and two singing birds at Black Mountain lookout tower, Harlan County on June 21, 23 and 25 (AB). An active nest of Eastern Phoebes was observed on a shed in Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County on April 22 (BM, BBC) ; also early nesting observed in the Glasgow area (RS). Other active nests were found in the following coun¬ ties: Boone, Carroll, Kenton and Bracken (LMc). Territorial Horned Larks were present in Grant County during June (LMc) ; many adult birds were seen carrying food to young in several locations in southern Ohio County on the Homestead Mine during June (KC, HLC, S, FS). Martins through Nuthatches — Little information was received on the Purple Martin. The colony in Seneca Park, Louisville was reduced to two pairs (S, FS) ; a few present at Rough River, Grayson County (KC) ; several pairs nested in a new box which was erected south of Versailles, Woodford County (SH) ; and the 50+ with several young at Science Hill, Pulaski County on July 17 were probably getting ready to migrate south (JE1). Tree Swallows continued their expansion through the state with 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 89 nests in dead trees over the lakes at the Army Depot in Richmond, Madison County and in two bluebird boxes in the uplands (WD) ; West Hick¬ man Sewage Treatment Plant in Jessamine County for a new breeding' county record (WD) ; and near Crittenden, Grant County (K. Caminiti fide LMc). Other breeding observations included adult birds entering cavities in trees and fledglings nearby, on a strip mine north of Centertown, western Ohio County on June 28 (BPB) ; in a nest box near Union, Boone County (LMc) ; and adult birds observed at Cimarron Marsh, Hopkins County on June 1 (JH). Bank Swallows were found in gravel pits again in Petersburg and Belleview while a third colony was found in another gravel pit near Taylorsport also in Boone County (LMc). The two Bank Swallow colonies in Carroll County were not visited this summer (S). New breeding colonies of the Cliff Swallow were found and established new county records in Bracken County at Mehdahl Dam (10 nests) and at Rock Springs (60 nests — LMc), and in Ohio County on Caney Creek at US 62, about 1.5 miles NE of Horse Branch (BPB). Also, new nesting colonies were located as follows: Rough River Reservoir at KY 259, Grayson/ Breckin¬ ridge County line (about 30+ nests), Caney Creek at US 62, about 2.5 miles E of Steff, and Caney Creek at Goffs-Neafus Road, both with 25 + nests on June 27 (BPB). Other nesting colonies were noted at Markland Dam in Gallatin County and Wolper Creek in Boone County (LMc). The Gunpowder Creek colony in Boone County was not used this year for the first time in five years (LMc). An apparent migrant flock of 50+ Cliff Swallows was observed at East Bend, Boone County on July 29 (LMc). An active nest of American Crows was observed at Camp Ernest, near Burling¬ ton, Boone County on April 24 (LMc). Two Common Ravens were heard calling from a cliffline on the north side of Cumberland Mountain in CGNHP, Bell County on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell); and the two birds noted near Larkslane and one at Vest, Knott County on July 12 were noteworthy (AB). An adult White-breasted Nuthatch was noted feeding- young in the nest at Burlington on May 15 (LMc). Wrens through Shrikes — Successful nesting of the Carolina Wren was noted at BPS (KC), Glasgow in Barren County (RS), two locations in east Louisville: one in a mail box on Redleaf Drive (DN), and one on a rafter in a carport, Spokane Way (FS, S). Bewick’s Wrens continued to be scarce with only two birds reported : one singing bird appeared territorial in rural Warren County, about 1.5 miles NE of Girkin on June 2 (BPB) and one near Fiskburg in Kenton County on June 10 (LMc). A Sedge Wren was heard singing in rural Warren County just SE of McElroy Lake on July 22 (BPB, BBC). Improved numbers of Eastern Bluebirds were evident in most areas. The nest box project at Prospect, Jefferson County was quite successful (JK). Increases of the Eastern Bluebird population were also noted at the University of Kentucky Agri¬ culture Farm, Fayette County and at the Army Depot at Richmond (WD). Several Veeries were heard singing along upper Cumberland Mountain along the Ridge Trail from Hensley Settlement to White Rocks, Bell/ Harlan County line in CGNHP on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell). The Wood Thrush was scarce at BPS and at Louisville (KC and S, respectively) ; only one nest reported — an incubating bird near Hebron, Boone County on June 7 (LMc). The Brown Thrasher and Gray Catbird were again in low numbers especially in the Louisville area. Cedar Waxwings were not as widespread this summer; at least 25 present at BPS during June, but left after the mulberries were gone (KC). An active nest was located north of Gilstrap, Butler County on June 29 (BPB). Other summer sight¬ ings of pairs were made in the following counties: Breckinridge, Edmonson (2 locales), Logan, Metcalfe, Ohio (2 locales), Todd (2 locales), and War- 90 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 ren (2 locales — BPB). Increased sightings of Loggerhead Shrikes were encouraging. They were noted in Bracken (LMc), Grant (LMc), Grayson (KC), Pulaski (JE1), and Warren counties (KC). Nests and/or recently fledged groups of young were located while doing Breeding Bird Atlas surveys in the following counties (# of sites) : Breckinridge (1), Butler (1), Christian (1), Edmonson (1), Logan (1), McLean (1), Metcalfe (1), Muhlenberg (3), Ohio (2), Simpson (5), Todd (3), and Warren (2 — BPB). Eight Loggerhead Shrikes were also seen in one hour while driving in Fulton County on July 17 (SK, MS). Vireos through Warblers — The Bell’s Vireo nest previously reported (Ky. War., 65:71, 1989) was found on the Peabody Coal Company Home¬ stead Surface Mine, Ohio County and contained eggs in late May, and nearly-fledged young on June 14 (BPB); two to three territorial males were still in full song there on July 16. The Muhlenberg County nest site on Peabody’s Martwick Surface Mine was not revisited (BPB). Five male Solitary Vireos were noted singing on June 15 along a four mile stretch of road #221 starting west of the town of Pine Mountain, Harlan County where the elevation is 1700-2500 feet (AB) ; a singing male along Railroad Fork, about four miles NNE of Whitley City, McCreary County on July 17 and scattered singing males along the Ridge Trail in CGNHP, Bell/Harlan County line on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell). Two or three pairs of Solitary Vireos with young were seen along one mile stretch of Road #1780, three miles west and slightly south of Helton, Leslie County (eleva¬ tion 1500 feet) on July 24 (AB). A pair of 'Golden-winged Warblers noted on Black Mountain (elevation 3000+ feet), 2.5 miles SW of Cumberland, Harlan County on June 21, 23 and 25 (AB). Summering Northern Parulas were observed at three locations in Boone County and one location each in Carroll and Kenton counties (LMc). An adult Chestnut-sided 'Warbler was observed feeding a young bird, 1.25 miles east of Sizerock, Leslie County (elevation 1400 feet) on July 7 (AB); and singing birds were heard in all appropriate habitats along the crest of Cumberland Mountain in CGNHP, Bell/Harlan counties on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell). Black-throated Blue Warblers were heard at scattered points along the Ridge Trail in CGNHP from Hensley Settlement, Bell County to White Rocks, Harlan County on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell). Pine Warblers were again recorded on several occasions during June in pines at Madisonville, Hopkins County (JH), where they probably are nesting birds. Other summer sightings from areas where records are few included a singing male, south of Gilstrap on June 29, a male carrying food at Lake Blythe, north of Hopkinsville, Christian County on June 22, and an adult feeding a Brown-headed Cowbird, about 2 miles N of Pleasant Hill, Butler County on June 14 (BPB). Cerulean Warblers were observed in family groups (adults and fledglings) along Rock Creek, McCreary County, July 6 (BPB). Worm-eating Warblers were common during the period at Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve, while a pair was also present north of Carrolton, Carroll County during June (LMc) ; and fledged young were near Sharon Grove, Todd County on June 7 (BPB). Alan Barron located a good number of Swainson’s Warblers i mostly singing males) in eastern Kentucky as follows: one near Sampson, Harlan County on June 20, a pair, 2 miles south of Slemp, Perry County July 6, one at 1.25 miles east of Sizemore, Leslie County on July 7, one at Day, Letcher County July 15, a pair, and another male singing at some distance behind them, 2 miles west of Flat Gap, Virginia along Hwy. 932, July 22, one, one-half mile northeast of Skyline, Letcher County July 22, and one, one-half mile southeast of Skyline, Letcher County, July 22. Another was present at Sugar Run Picnic Area in CGNHP, Bell County on June 17 (BPB, AB, AM), and still there on June 25 (AB). An adult 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 91 Ovenbird was observed carrying food in southern Butler County on June 1 (BPB), and an adult was seen feeding a fledgling on June 6 at the Boone County Cliffs (LMc). Singing Canada Warblers were heard at several points along the Ridge Trail on CGNHP from the upper portion of Shillalah Creek near Hensley Settlement to White Rocks on June 17 (BPB, R. Cassell). Tanagers through Dickcissels — A Summer Tanager nest with young was found on June 16 at General Butler State Park, Carroll County (LMc). Scarlet Tanagers were widespread during the period in northern Ken¬ tucky (LMc) ; a female noted feeding two young Brown-headed Cowbirds out of the nest in rural Carroll County on June 24 (LMc) ; and two birds were near Brazzle Bridge in Madisonville on June 9 (JH). There were three reports of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks on June 17 in CGNHP: two singing males on Cumberland Mountain, one along upper Shillalah Creek, and one along the Ridge Trail (BPB, R. Cassell). Blue Grosbeaks were widespread and they continued their expansion in the state with new county breeding records established. Three young fledged from a nest near Munfordville, Hart County (SK) ; and an adult was observed carrying food to young on the Homestead Mine in Ohio County on July 16 and 23 (KC). Two male Blue Grosbeaks and a female were in a yard at Science Hill, Pulaski County from June 17 throughout July (JE1) while singing was noted in a yard in Danville, Boyle County all during July (FL). Other summer sightings included two birds along the road at SWMA on July 23 (LR), recorded at five locations in Hopkins County (JH), several locations in Barren County (RS), increased numbers noted on the BBS in Casey County (FL), and 12 birds were heard on July 21 in the following counties: Logan, Todd and Warren (BM, MM). A female Dickcissel was observed building a nest in eastern McLean County on June 15 (BPB) ; and adults carrying food to young were found on the Homestead Mine on June 1 (S, FS) numerous there during June and July (KC). Dickcissels were also heard at SWMA on July 23 (LR). Sparrows through Finches — - Bachman’s Sparrows were not found this summer at the traditional Blood River site (J. T. Erwin fide CP). However, a singing male was seen and heard in rural Calloway County, about 1.5 miles SW of Pottertown, some 5 miles from the Blood River site where it was formerly observed for the past number of years (J. T. Erwin, BPB). The Savannah Sparrow observed near Danville on July 15 was the only one reported (FL). Grasshopper Sparrows were noted during June in Bracken, Grant and Pendleton counties (LMc) ; and a small colony on a reclaimed strip mine in southwestern Whitley County on July 7 (BPB), and unusually common on the reclaimed strip mine land (Home¬ stead Mine) during the period (KC, S), and three bii'ds singing at re¬ claimed strip mines in SE Bell County, north of CGNHP (AB). A colony of Henslow’s Sparrows was found in Pendleton County near Knoxville on June 3 (LMc), also a small colony in Grant County near Mason during June (Joe and Kathy Caminiti fide LMc), and a nesting colony on Pea¬ body’s Ken Surface Mine in western Ohio County during June and July; nesting evidence observed by food being carried in the bill of an adult on July 16 (BPB). Song Sparrows were recorded at six locations in Hopkins County in June and July, where it is not common in summer (JH). A few pairs of Bobolinks remained in a field near Danville through July 3 when the field was cut (FL). American Goldfinches were numerous at BPS during the summer with 25 or more present (KC). Several pairs of House Finches nested again in southwestern Jefferson County (WJ), and were present at feeders in eastern Jefferson County during the summer period (S, FS) ; and numbrs were increasing in the Madisonville area (JH). 92 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 Contributors — Alan Barron (AB), Wally Brines (WB), Kathryn Clay (KC), Herbert L. Clay, Jr. (HLC), Wayne Davis (WD), Brenda Eaden (BE), Tony Eaden (TE), Jackie Elmore ( J El ) , James W. Hancock (JH), Smith Hundley (SH), Wilbur Jackson (WJ), Steve Kistler (SK), John Krull (JK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MM), Andrew Mullen (AM), Doxie Noonan (DN), B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), D. Parker (DP), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Mitchel Sturgeon (MS), Russell Starr (RS). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY FALL MEETING September 22-24, 1989 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 66th annual Fall Meeting at Cumberland Falls State Park on September 22-24, 1989. Jim Williams opened the Friday evening session with a welcome to members, guests and those attending for the first time. Virginia Kingsolver outlined the field trips for Saturday morning and introduced the evening speakers. Steve Phillips updated the current status of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker in the Cumberland Falls area. Paul Kalisz spoke on the characteristics of forest utilized by the Red-cockaded Woodpecker in Ken¬ tucky. Clell Peterson proposed a bird photography salon by members at future K.O.S. meetings. Brad Andres discussed the use of tape playbacks in searching for breeding rails. Brainard Palmer-Ball Jr. concluded the program with a review of the present status and future plans for the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas project. Members were invited to a social hour following the program at the Kingsolver’s cabin. Rain greeted birders on Saturday morning field trips. Steve Kickei't led one group to a Red-cockaded Woodpecker roost site, Jackie Elmore led a trip to the Natural Arch area and Bert Powell led a group around the lodge area. The Board of Directors met in the lodge at 4:00 p.m. The Saturday evening program was held in the lodge meeting room beginning at 7:30 p.m. Fred Busroe led in compiling the day’s bird list, which totalled 55 species. The Nominating Committee presented the follow¬ ing slate of officers for the coming year: President - Virginia Kingsolver, Vice-President - Lee McNeely, Corresponding Secretary-Treasurer - Kathryn Mudd, Recording Secretary - Donnie Spencer, and new Councillors - Clell Peterson and Bert Powell. All were approved as presented. Thanks were extended to Jim Williams and John Krull for their recent service as officers. Sunday morning trips were announced, followed by a tape of the calls of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker. Dr. Wendell Kingsolver presented the evening program, an entertaining look at “New World Migration, a Bird’s Eye View.” Cool, sunny weather was present on Sunday, with several more birders getting good views of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker. No additional species were reported by participants on Sunday field trips. Total registrations for the Fall Meeting were 54. Respectfully submitted, Lee McNeely Recording Secretary 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 93 ATTENDANCE AT THE FALL MEETING AT CUMBERLAND FALLS STATE PARK BOWLING GREEN: Blaine Ferrell, Jeff Jones, Mr. and Mrs. William Mathes BURLINGTON: Mr. and Mrs. Lee McNeely CALVERT CITY: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Leeky CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver CRITTENDEN : Joe and Kathy Caminiti ELIZABETHTOWN: Joan Noel FRANKFORT: Mr. and Mrs. Howard Jones HODGENVILLE: Susan Cruse LEXINGTON: Susan Boeltcher, Jim Williams, Charles Elliott LOUISVILLE: Edwin Ahrens, Richard Cassell, Kathryn Clay, John Krull, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Don Parker, Mr. and Mrs. F.W. Stamm MACEO: Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Powell MOREHEAD: Mr. Fred Busroe MUNFORDVILLE: Cap Middleton MURRAY : Dr. Clell Peterson OWENSBORO: Margaret Craig, Lydia Greenwell, Mr. and Mrs. L.E. Wilson, William Perkins PADUCAH: Bernice Caddell SOMERSET: Mr. and Mrs. Jackie Elmore, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hines, Gary Sherman STANLEY : Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stevenson CLARKSVILLE, IND: Lene Rauth DYERSBURG, TN : Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Leggett COLUMBUS, OH: Mr. and Mrs. Brad Andres, Wendell Haag PENNEY FARM, FLA: Mr. and Mrs. John Cheeks EUGENE, OR: Rick Ahrens BIRDS RECORDED ON FIELD TRIPS AT THE FALL MEETING AT CUMBERLAND FALLS STATE PARK September 22-24, 1989 Turkey Vulture, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kes¬ trel, Mourning Dove, Eastern Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owl, Common Nighthawk, Chimney Swift, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Caro¬ lina Wren, Eastern Bluebird, Swainson’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Tennessee Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black- throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, American Redstart, Worm-eating Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow', Song Sparrow and American Goldfinch. The species total for the weekend was 55. It was raining in the morning on Saturday during the field trips, but the skies began to clear in the afternoon and temperatures began to drop with the approach of a cold front. 94 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 REPORT OF THE TREASURER FISCAL YEAR 1988-1989 GENERAL FUND Bank Balance as of September 28, 1988 Receipts Membership Dues $2,294.00 Interest Income: Endowment Fund . 400.26 Gordon Wilson Fund 84.15 Meetings . 215.00 Gifts (Owensboro Nature Club) 20.00 Sale of Patches, etc. 78.65 Sale of Annotated Checklists 2,023.85 Transfer from G. Wilson Fund- — Postage 48.91 Transfer from G. Wilson Fund — Taxes 67.09 Adjustment — Overcredit from G. Wilson Fund 5.00 Disbursements Printing Cost (Warbler — 3 Issues) 2,244.49 Envelopes . 148.20 Postage 287.50 Meetings 128.54 Nature Conservancy Dues 15.00 Transfer of Interest to G. Wilson Fund 84.15 Transfer of Checklist Sales to G. Wilson Fund 2,028.85 KY State Tax Filing Fee . 10.00 KY State Sales Tax 67.09 Postage for Mailing Checklists 48.91 Transfer of Life Membership to Endowment Fund (2) 150.00 Bank Balance as of September 19, 1989 ENDOWMENT FUND Balance in Savings Account, September 29, 1988 Certificates of Deposit: 2 @ $1,000 each — Greater Financial Federal 1 @ $1,500 — Future Federal 1 @ $1,000 — Future Federal Receipts: Interest on Certificates of Deposit Interest on Savings Account Life Memberships (2) TOTAL $ 400.26 93.81 150.00 $3,164.71 5,236.91 8,401.62 5,212.73 $3,188.89 $2,202.17 2,000.00 1,500.00 1,000.00 $6,702.17 644.07 $7,346.24 1989 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 95 Disbursements: Transfer of Interest to General Fund Balance in Fund, September 28, 1989 Certificates of Deposit (4) Balance in Savings Account TOTAL GORDON WILSON FUND Balance in Savings Account, September 29, 1988 Certificates of Deposit: 2 @ $1,000 each TOTAL Receipts: Interest on Certificates of Deposit $ 84.15 Interest on Savings Account 56.87 Sale of Annotated Checklists 2,028.85 Disbursements: Transfer of Postage to General Fund 48.91 Transfer of Taxes to General Fund 67.09 Adjustment of Overcredit 5.00 Balance in Fund, September 28, 1989 Balance in Savings Account, September 28, 1989 Certificates of Deposit (2) TOTAL BALANCE SHEET As of September 28, 1989 Assets: Balance in General Fund Balance in Endowment Fund Balance in Gordon Wilson Fund TOTAL (Net Worth) . 400.26 $6,945.98 $4,500.00 2,445.98 $6,945.98 $1,188.95 2,000.00 $3,188.95 2,169.87 5,358.82 121.00 $5,237.82 $3,237.82 2,000.00 $5,237.82 $ 3,188.89 6,945.98 5,237.82 $15,372.69 96 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 65 FIELD NOTE FIRST KENTUCKY RECORD OF THE ROSEATE SPOONBILL On 29 July 1989 Jean Steinhauser and I were canoeing on Honker Lake located in Land Between the Lakes, Lyon County, Kentucky. The weather was hot and humid. Around 10:30 a.m. two Great Blue Herons ( Arclea herodias) caught my attention as they flew from a dead snag approximately 30 yards from us. In this same tree I saw what appeared to be a Great Egret (Casmerodius albus). When it turned its head so that the bill was easily in view, the shape could be seen as long, flattened on the top and bottom and with a round tip. From this observation, I knew we were look¬ ing at a Roseate Spoonbill (Ajaia ajaja). I took several photographs of the perched spoonbill with a 29-200 mm zoom lens which was set on 200mm. As it flew from its perch, its pink underwings were obvious. The upper surface of the wings, body, neck and head appeared white. We followed the bird to another part of the lake where it landed on the bank. It fed in a shallow pool until around 12:00 p.m. At this time it flew out of Honker Lake toward Lake Barkley. I took several more photo¬ graphs while it was feeding and in flight. When we got back to the truck, I consulted the National Geographic Field Guide to confirm the sighting and check its range. Since it was well out of its normal range, we reported the sighting to Wally Brines at Woodlands Nature Center. JEFF FLAM, 100 Van Morgan Drive, Golden Pond, Kentucky 42211-9001. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. MEMBER BECOMES A.O.U.’s PRESIDENT Dr. Burt L. Monroe, Jr., who is President-Elect of the American Ornithologists’ Union, will take office as president at the A.O.U.’s 108th Stated Meeting at Los Angeles, California in June 1990. K.O.S. salutes Dr. Monroe for this outstanding recognition. At the present time Dr. Charles G. Sibley, Tiburon, California and Dr. Monroe are completing a book on The Classification and Distribution of Recent Birds of the World. PROJECT FEEDERWATCH Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology is sponsoring Project FeederWatch. This project is designed to monitor bird distribution across the United States through observations made on a regular basis at backyard feeders. You do not have to be an expert bird watcher to participate. If you are interested in more information, write: Project FeederWatch, Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, New York 14850. MID-WINTER BIRD COUNTS Those members who have participated in the mid-winter bird counts previously should already have received count forms for this year’s count. The counts should be conducted between December 16 and January 3. If you are interested in conducting a count and would like additional infor¬ mation, please contact the editor. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society — VOL. 66 FEBRUARY, 1990 NO. 1 IN THIS ISSUE THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1989, Anne L. Stamm 3 THE MID-WINTER BIRD COUNTS 15 BOOK REVIEW, Hei-bert E. Shadowen 27 FIELD NOTES 28 NEWS AND VIEWS 31 9 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Vice-President Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Recording Secretary Councillors : Gary Ritchison, Richmond Jeff Jones, Bowling Green Clell Peterson, Murray Bert Powell, Maceo Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Lee McNeely, Burlington . Kathryn Mudd 4107 Ciremos Terrace, Louisville, 40222 Donnie Spencer, Hazard 1989-1991 1989- 1991 1990- 1992 1990-1992 Jim Williams, Lexington Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Organ of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, published quarterly in February, May, August and November. The KENTUCKY WARBLER is I sent to all members not in arrears for dues. Membership dues are : Active or Regular, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00 ; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. : Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for the photograph of the flock of American Robins (Turdus migratorius) taken in Lexington. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1989 Anne L. Stamm The fall of 1989 in Kentucky was characterized by above normal temperature and the warm weather continued well into October. The temperature at Paducah on October 13 reached 89 degrees, a new record, and 87 at Louisville. Also, on November 27 Louisville enjoyed a high of 71 degrees and several cities in western Kentucky recorded temperatures in the mid-70’s. Rainfall was below normal, except in October. The Waterfowl movement was poor, perhaps because of the mild weather in late October. Ducks and geese did not peak until mid-December. No large hawk flights were detected. The passerines started to move south in late August and good numbers appeared in early September and again in late September. There were excellent flights of Sandhill Cranes, par¬ ticularly in early and late November. Shorebird migration was below average in most of the state, but excellent at the transient lakes, south of Bowling Green. A few species of birds arrived early, but many lingered beyond normal departure dates. A few rarities showed up and all in all it was a fairly interesting season. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; Duck Island WMA = Duck Island Wildlife Management Area, Trigg County on Lake Barkley; KyDFWR = Kentucky Department Fish and Wildlife Resources; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; LP = Lake Pewee; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery; PHSM = Peabody Homestead Surface Mine, Ohio County; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County. The transient lakes are Chaney and McElroy, south of Bowling Green, Warren County. Crescent Hill Reservoir, Lentz’s Pond and Mayfair basins are located in Louisville. Loons through Bitterns — Common Loons were widespread, but in low numbers. The first observation was made of a single bird at Cave Run Lake, Rowan County on September 4 (FB) and two were observed at Lake Barkley above the dam on September 10 (JP). 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T- t- CO CO 'Birds observed during the count period, but not on the count day. 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974.) Dec. 30; 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy with some fog; temp. 44°F to 56°F; wind S-SW, 0-15 m.p.h. Other weather comments: light rain showers in p.m. Seven observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 24.5 (10.5 on foot, 14 by car). Total party-miles 135 (5 on foot, 130 by car, plus 1 hour owling). Total species 64; total individuals 5,017. Although the weather was rainy and the number of observers was below average, a respectable total of 64 species was tallied. Most water was frozen, in part accounting for the low waterfowl diversity. Wild food crops appeared to be good. For the number of observers afield, totals for most species were about average. The Wild Turkeys represent a portion of the growing Bernheim Forest flock. Pine Siskins were reported from a local feeder. Observers: Mary Bill Bauer, Richard Cassell, Diane Ebel, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Donald Parker and Lene Rauth. LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center jet. Hwys. 42 and 22, as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 17; 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky cloudy in a.m., partly cloudy in p.m.; temp. 1°F to 15°F; wind SW, 0-2 m.p.h. Most water frozen, only Ohio River open; three inches of snow. Thirty-five observers in 9 parties. Total party-hours 89 (40 on foot, 49 by car). Total party-miles 436 (43 on foot, 393 by car). Total species 83; total individuals 14,102. The extremely cold weather during the week resulted in frozen lakes, ponds and streams, with only the Ohio River open. As a result, the water- fowl count (except for Canada Goose and Mallard) was down, both in species and numbers. Blackbird and starling counts were also down; no winter blackbird roost developed locally, and cold weather probably chased most scattered birds south. Other landbirds, however, were present in good numbers. House Finches continue to increase dramatically. The two rarities found were a single Tundra Swan on the Ohio River (with a flock of Canada Geese), and a Lincoln’s Sparrow, well-seen (all field marks noted) by an observer familiar with the species. Two other additional species observed on the count day but not included on the table are one Red-breasted Merganser and one Black-crowned Night-Heron. Observers: Garrett Adams, Mary Bauer, J. Aylward, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Marie Blahnik, Roland Blahnik, K. W. Clay, Donna Coates, S. A. Figg, Katy Fulkerson, D. L. Garst, Wayne Hinkle, Frank Krull, Sr., John Krull, Bob Lehman, Colin Lindsay, Tim Love, Barbara McFarland, Jim McFar¬ land, B. L. Monroe, Jr. (compiler), Mark Monroe, K. C. Mudd, Austin Nightengale, Doxie Noonan, J. S. Noonan, Martha Pike, Bob Quaife, Lene Rauth, Helga Schutte, Tony Smith, Anne Stamm, F. W. Stamm, Midge Susie, Marge Yater (Beckham Bird Club). SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 0.75 miles south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on KY Highway 714.) Habitat elevation 640’-1190’, farm land, fallow land, residential, wooded and grassland. Dec. 30; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky extremely foggy with rain the entire day; temp. 40°F to 45°F; wind S, 10-15 m.p.h. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 25 Five observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 9 (0 on foot, 9 by car). Total party-miles 147 (0 on foot, 147 by car). Total species 41; total individuals 2,509. Fog and rain created visibility problems the entire day and curtailed the activity of birds and watchers (outside). Observers: Leslie Brown, Todd Brown and W. H. Brown (compiler), Sean Ellington and J. C. Higgins. FRANKFORT (center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 17; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy in a.m. to partly cloudy in p.m.; temp. -1° F to 14°F; wind SE, 0-5 m.p.h. Snow cover three inches, all water frozen except small moving areas. Ten observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 35.5 (13.5 on foot, 22 by car). Total party-miles 160 (11 on foot, 149 by car). Total species 62; total individuals 4,301. The severe cold, snow cover and slick roads prevented participation by some regulars and resulted in more feeder watchers than usual. Water- fowl were well represented, with most being found at the State Game Farm where shelled corn was supplied. It was unusual not to find Brown Creepers either at Frankfort or Kleber. The Pine Warblers were carefully studied in a grove of young pine trees at a city park. House Finches continued their dramatic growth in numbers with a 60% increase over 1988. This was a good representative count for Franklin County and re¬ flects the presence of an excellent wild food crop. Observers: Charles Bowers, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Charles Grayson, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Howard Jones (compiler), Margaret LaFontaine, Debbie Williams and Tim Williams. KLEBER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA (center and habitat as described in 1977.) Dec. 30; 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 45 °F to 53°F; wind S, 0-15 m.p.h. Dense fog early with snow melting, intermit¬ tent rain with fog in p.m., ponds, lakes and Kentucky River frozen. Six observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 26 (12.5 on foot, 13.5 by car). Total party-miles 114 (10 on foot, 104 by car). Total species 39; total individuals 1,522. The unfavorable weather kept the list down. The Canada Geese were flying over the Kentucky River in late afternoon. The Black Vulture roost was found along the Kentucky River just at dusk. There was an excellent wild food crop in Owen County this year. Observers: Ron Duncan, Peggy Durbin, James Durell, Eric Harrod, Howard Jones (compiler but not participant), Sally Wasielewski. LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman Church and Tates Creek Road.) Habitat farmland and residential. Dec. 30; 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 45°F to 50°F; wind calm. Foggy. Twenty-five observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 64 (4 on foot, 60 by car). Total party-miles 270 (5 on foot, 265 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 7,920. Observers: Earl Boggs, Rose Canon, Manton Cornette, Ruth Davis, Phylis Deal, Lyda Feck, Doris Ferm, Link Fisch, Bill Gregory, Teresa Gregory, Karen Hughes, Terri Kontz, Betty Maxson, Robert Morris (com¬ piler), Ruth Morton, Glenn Raleigh, Ed Seiler, Lewis Shaine, Jo Stofer, 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Marie Sutton, Andrew Uterhart, Marion Uterhart, Jim Williams, Jim Wilson and Bernice Wood. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-niile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat 13% water/edge, 3.5% urban, 18% cultivated, 33.5% field/fence, 28% woodland edge, and 4% feeder. Dec. 30; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp., 20 °F to 40°F; wind calm. Foggy in early morning, scattered showers all day. Thirty-four observers in 9 parties. Total party-hours 61.5 (17 on foot, 44.5 by car). Total party-miles 479 (20 on foot, 459 by car). Total species 67; total individuals 11,579. Two Bewick’s Wrens were observed on count day but not included on the table. A Short-eared Owl and a Prairie Falcon were observed during the week of the count. Observers: Chauncey Alcock, Ron Barbato, Jason Boyle, Ed Caldwell, Bob Corcoran, Lois Corcoran, Andy Eklund, Jinny Eklund, Neil Eklund (compiler), Scott Eklund, Colby Foster, Martha Foster, Tobin Foster, John Gower, Dorothy Belle Hill, Tom Kearns, Bill Kemper, Chuck Kohler, Fred Loetseher, Dan MacDonald, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, John B. Nichols, Rob Pendygraft, Herb Petitjean, Jim Roessler, Joe Russell, Lee Russell, John V. G. Smith, Chris Strecker, Maynard VanHorn, Virginia VanHorn, Greg Wagner and Cathy Wilson. BURLINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Camp Michaels near Union, KY.) Habitat woodland and forest edge 30%, farmland and fields 30%, streams and river 35% and residential 5%. Dec. 30; 6:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky overcast with heavy fog; temp. 38°F to 45°F; wind S, 0-8 m.p.h. Ohio River open, lakes and ponds frozen. Eight observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 28 (11 on foot, 17 by car). Total party-miles 199.5 (3.5 on foot, 196 by car). Total species 51; total individuals 2,354. Dense fog prevailed the entire day seriously hampering visibility. High numbers were noted for Great Horned Owls, Cedar Waxwings and Pine Siskins, while no Belted Kingfishers were found for the first time in 15 years. Observers: Brenda Bellamy, Vivian Brun, Joe Caminiti, Kathy Cami- niti, Elaine Carroll, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (compiler) and Tommy Stephens. Feeder watchers were Marjorie Hill, Lynda McNeely, Carmen Schulte and David Stephens. WARSAW (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Gallatin County Courthouse.) Habitat river and shore 35%, open field and farm¬ land 30%, woodland and forest edge 30% and residential 5%. Dec. 16; 7:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sky cloudy to sunny, some morning fog; temp. -4°F to 11°F; wind W, 5-10 m.p.h. Approximately four inches of snow cover on the ground, lakes and streams frozen, Ohio River open. Four observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 17.5 (3 on foot, 14.5 by car). Total party-miles 163 (1 on foot, 162 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 1,430. One Water Pipit was sighted (documentation in¬ cluded) . Despite the frigid conditions, a good variety of birds was found. The Double-crested Cormorant and Bonaparte’s Gulls were found at the Ghent power plant. Observers: Joe Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Lee McNeely (compiler) and Tommy Stephens. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 SOMERSET (Area and habitat as described in 1980.) Jan. 3; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 32 °F to 54°F; wind S, 0-5 m.p.h. Three observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (5 on foot, 5 by car). Total party -miles 60 (4 on foot, 56 by car). Total species 42; total indi¬ viduals 5,641. Small lakes and ponds were partially frozen. Observers: Jackie B. Elmore, Sr. (compiler), Gay Hodges and Steve Kickert. BOOK REVIEW ON THE WING The Life of Birds: From Feathers to Flight, By Bruce Brooks, with illustrations from several sources. Published by Mac¬ millan Publishing' Company, 866 Third Avenue, New York, N. Y. 192 pp., $40.00. 1989. ON THE WING is a companion to the P.B.S. series “Nature.” The style of arrangement and presentation makes it difficult work to review. The printed text is arranged in six chapters, and each chapter has inserts of material; these inserts, varying in length from two paragraphs to five pages, provide much information on migration, brood parasitism, etc., but interrupt the flow of the subject matter. Perhaps they should have been included in the usual manner rather than as inserts. Brooks makes it clear in the introduction that his objective is not to produce a comprehensive coverage of ornithology but to encourage the reader to take pleasure in expanding his knowledge of birds and their ways. “A complete understanding of birds is as hard to catch as a flying goldfinch.” Throughout, the skill of several photographers has been used to emphasize features stressed by the writer, and the photography is excellent. One should not write reviews during the final exam period or during the busy Christmas season. As I attempted to hurriedly read ON THE WING I was not impressed. The descriptions of feathers and beaks seemed tedious. I did not like the frequent entomologically-incorrect use of “bug”, the words “kids” and “blind salamanders” for young birds, and the description of young birds growing “from pink newts to cocky-tailed adolescents.” However, it seems evident that the author enjoys his task as he plunges into in-depth discussions of the feather, flight, feeding, and home life and ends with a plea to mankind to intelligently use our environ¬ ment. He uses many expressive figures of speech with colloquialisms, similes, and metaphors, and creates some of his own expressions along the way. Examples of the latter include “pelleteers” for pellet-forming species, “Birddom”, and “downright litterish” in describing seasonal repli¬ cation of nests. Some readers may not appreciate but should have no dif¬ ficulty in understanding expressions such as “up-for-grab holes, the whole shebang collapses, highfalutin’ food merchants,” and “from shell bred to well fed — one to grow on, so to speak” in the context in which they are used. He likens the fecal sacs of chicks to “twist-tied plastic trash bags” and a cuckoo in a warbler’s nest to “too much chocolate ice cream on a dainty cone.” As I continued to read, my boredom turned to interest and then to enthusiasm, and I was drawn back to some subjects for a second reading. The description of the Great Blue Heron on page 32 indicates extreme observational skill, and I was intrigued by his theory that “the 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 art to which birds have contributed the greatest inspiration is music.” Musicians in particular will be interested in reading pp. 167-169. As a biologist I was attracted to his comments concerning evolution. Some were terse, such as the phrase “evolution has not smiled on the avian penis”, while others on the subjects of the evolution of the feather, wing, clutch size, alarm calls, and migration were more involved. The final chaptetr discussing birds and man and conservation is especially well written and illustrated with vivid photography. In conclusion this is one of those publications I want to retain in my library so 1 may return to it from time to time to read selected topics and enjoy the photography. I hope others who read ON THE WING will have a similar reaction. — H. E. SHADOWEN, Biology Department, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101. FIELD NOTES PRAIRIE FALCON(S) OBSERVED IN HART COUNTY On December 18, 1989, I was leaving a food store in Munfordville on highway 31-W about 0.5 mile north of town. I was accompanied by my six year old son. As I raised up from putting my groceries in the back seat of my car, I observed a bird of prey flying slowly toward me at low alti¬ tude. The sun was south of me, as it was shortly after noon; the bird was flying toward me from the northwest. It was a sunny day and the visibility was excellent. Although I did not have binoculars, I was able to quickly determine that the bird was a falcon and that it was too large to be an American Kestral (Falco sparverius) . At first I assumed the bird might be a Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), but as it flew toward me I re¬ alized that it was paler than any Peregrine I’d ever seen. The bird flew slowly toward me and passed approximately 20 feet directly overhead. Even without binoculars the black axillars stood out clearly. I then re¬ alized the falcon was a Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus), and I confirmed this identification by referring to my field guides when I got home a short time later. As I watched the bird fly to the southeast, I noticed another falcon of the same size, shape, and pale color following the first. I could see no field marks on the second bird, but the two flew together for another two minutes or so as they flew slowly away from me. I have not been able to locate these birds since that sighting. — STEVE KISTLER, 1335 Sam Goodman Road, Munfordville, Kentucky. WHIMBREL IN BALLARD COUNTY On May 3, 1989, I was binding at Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area near Wickliffe in southern Ballard County when I discovered a Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) feeding with a small group of mixed shorebirds in a flooded field on the northwest side of the entrance road into the management area. The bird was observed in the early afternoon and studied for nearly an hour as it fed and rested in the shallow waters. Several photographs clearly showing all field marks were obtained and 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 29 have been deposited with Anne L. Stamm, editor of the Seasonal Reports feature of The Kentucky Warbler. Other species of waterbirds in the flooded field included several Little Blue Herons (Egretta caerulea) and Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis), about a dozen Pectoral Sandpipers (Calidris melanotos) , several Least Sandpipers (Calidris minutilla) and a Wilson’s Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor) in full breeding plumage. The Whimbrel was quite large, dwarfing all other shorebirds near it, and judged to be at least the size of a Willet (Catoptrophorus semipalma- tus). It was light brown in overall color, slightly darker on the upperparts and marked with distinct, dark bars, especially on the back. The crown was blackish-brown with an obvious light median stripe. The legs were blackish and the bill was dark, rather long, and deeply decurved at the tip with a trace of orange-red basally. On one occasion the curlew took flight, loudly calling a repeated whistled note typical of the species, but it returned to the same spot after restlessly coursing around the vicinity for several minutes. In flight, the underwing was rather comparable in tone to the rest of the underparts, showing no trace of the rufous under¬ wing color typical of some of the other species of curlew, most notably the Long-billed Curlew (N. americanus). After birding in the management area for approximately forty-five minutes, I returned to the flooded field on my way out, but the Whimbrel could not be relocated. Because of the restless behavior it displayed earlier in the afternoon, it was assumed to have moved on. This represents the third record of the Whimbrel for Kentucky and the first to be substantiated with photographic documentation. Although all three Kentucky records have occurred in May, records accumulated in surrounding states suggest that the occasional occurrence of this species in late summer and early fall should be expected, as well. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222. SPRING RECORD OF RED-NECKED PHALAROPE AT McELROY LAKE On May 20, 1989, ten members of the Beckham Bird Club, Louisville Chapter of the K.O.S., were studying shorebirds at McElroy Lake, Warren County, when a Red-necked Phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) was discov¬ ered with a large flock of mixed shorebirds feeding in a grassy pasture partially inundated by the lake. The bird was not in full breeding plumage of an adult female as depicted in the common field guides, but nonetheless, It was quite striking in appearance and was much brighter than the typical male breeding plumage as shown in the same guides. The upperparts were slate blue- gray including a narrow stripe up the back of the neck and onto the crown and face. The sides of the nape were a bright rufous and the back was marked with several stripes of buff. The breast was darker than the belly, but not so strongly blue-gray as in the typical breeding female as depicted in the guides. An area about the chin was white, and the bill was dark, straight, and rather thin. The legs were dark. Above the eye was a short supercilium of light color (a character apparently not typical of adult females). The bird was rather small, being somewhat larger than many nearby Semipalmated Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla), but smaller 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 than several nearby Pectoral Sandpipers (Calidris melanotos). In flight, the bird’s wings were very dark with an obvious light wing stripe. The phalarope was viewed by all in the group and studied intermittently for more than an hour as it rested and fed in shallow water with the other shorebirds. Several color photographs of the resting bird were obtained that clearly show the distinctive plumage characters. A representative of these photos has been deposited with Anne L. Stamm, editor of the Seasonal Reports feature of The Kentucky Warbler. This individual, or another in the same plumage, was apparently observed by Gary Boggs on May 23 on another portion of the lake. It is assumed that the plumage observed was that of a female, molting into breeding plumage. This represents one of less than fifteen records of the Red-necked Phalarope in Kentucky, and the first for spring in the state. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222. ADDITIONAL RECORDS OF THE SHARP-TAILED SPARROW IN KENTUCKY The Sharp-tailed Sparrow (Ammodramus caudacutus) is a variable species found sporadically across eastern North America, but primarily in marshes along the east coast. Individuals of the inland race (A. c. nelsoni) nest in the central prairie region of southern Canada and cross the mid- western United States in migration on their way to and from wintering grounds on the Gulf coast. While on migration, the Sharp-tailed Sparrow is generally found in moist, weedy or grassy areas, especially along the marshy shores of bodies of water, but it has been found occasionally in drier, weedy fields, as well. Prior to 1986, the occurrence of Sharp-tailed Sparrows in Kentucky was verified only by a single photographic record from the Louisville area in late October 1.977 (Parker, KW 54:15, 1978). Beginning in 1986, myself and others began to investigate excellent habitat for this species on the Sauerheber Unit of Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in western Hen¬ derson County, and Sharp-tailed Sparrows have now been found there on three occasions. In addition, in May 1989, the state’s first spring record was verified by a group of observers in Warren County. Details of these observations follow. On October 12, 1986, Doxie Noonan, Lene Rauth, Cathy Justis and I flushed at least two, and perhaps more, Sharp-tailed Sparrows from dense, weedy growth along the marshy edge of Hardy Slough on the Sauerheber Unit. Both birds were studied at close range for several minutes. The day was overcast and a light, intermittent rain was falling, making photographic documentation impossible. Nevertheless, all of us were able to view the spectacular markings of bright orange-yellow on the face and breast, gray ear and nape patches, dark brown wings with light wing bars, dark back with whitish striping, and orange-buff flanks streaked with brown. The Sharp-tail’s were found amidst a loose group of at least several dozen Swamp Sparrows (Melospiza georgiana). This face, along with the further observation of large numbers of Swamp Sparrows (perhaps totalling over 200 birds on the management area alone) on the same day prompted the speculation that the occurrence of the rarer Sharp-tail’s corresponded with what must have been the peak of Swamp Sparrow migration. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 31 On October 11, 1987, Richard Cassell and I observed (and photo¬ graphed) a Sharp-tailed Sparrow along a grassy roadside strip approxi¬ mately 1.5 miles southwest of Hardy Slough on the Sauerheber Unit. Photographs of the bird clearly showing the bright face pattern, gray nape, and white stripes in the back have been deposited with Anne L. Stamm, Seasonal Reports Editor for The Kentucky Warbler. Although these observations were gratifying, the occurrence of this species during spring migration, as evidenced by at least four mid-May records from the state of Tennessee (M. Bierly, pers. comm.), indicated that the species should be found during spring migration, as well. On May 20, 1989, while birding at McElroy Lake in southern Warren County, a group of ten observers from the Beckham Bird Club, Louisville Chapter of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study, nearly at leisure, a Sharp-tailed Sparrow that was discovered in a grassy fenceline next to the lake. All were able to obtain excellent views of the bright, orange-yellow face pattern and breast, gray cheek patch, gray sides of the nape, and white-striped, brownish back. This observation represents the first well-verified record for the state in spring, as Robert Mengel (Bi?-ds of Kentucky, p. 519) lists only a hypothe¬ tical record from near Louisville. Finally, on October 1, 1989, approximately a dozen members of the Beckham Bird Club observed at least one Sharp-tailed Sparrow along the marshy border of Hardy Slough on the Sauerheber Unit. As with the birds observed in 1986, this individual was found with a fairly large flock of Swamp Sparrows. Once again, all field marks were noted including the strong face pattern, bright orange-yellow breast color, and white-striped dark back, all indicative of the inland race. Subsequent to several years of successful searching for this elusive transient, it appears that with persistent investigation of appropriate hab¬ itat, the Sharp-tailed Sparrow can be found at least for short periods during its spring and fall migrations. While the Sharp-tailed Sparrows affinity for water makes thick, marshy or lakeshore habitats the most likely in which to find the species, it appears that close scrutiny of other thick, weedy vegetation may yield success, as well. I would like to thank Mike Morton of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Sloughs Wildlife Management Area, for allowing us access to the manage¬ ment area on several occasions. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. SPRING MEETING The spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held at Rough River Dam State Park on April 27-29, 1990. Anyone planning to attend should make their reservations and room accomodations early. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) IN THIS ISSUE HE WINTER SEASON, 1989-1990, Anne L. Stamm 35 ’HE K.O.S. Spring Meeting . 42 ’lELD NOTES 44 JEWS AND VIEWS 48 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Vice-President Lee McNeely, Burlington Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Kathryn Mudd I 4107 Ciremos Terrace, Louisville, 40222 i Recording Secretary Donnie Spencer, Hazard Councillors: Gary Ritchison, Richmond 1988-1990 Jeff Jones, Bowling Green 1988-1990 1 Clell Peterson, Murray 1989-1991 Bert Powell, Maceo 1989-1991 Retiring President Jim Williams, Lexington Librarian Evelyn Schneider, Louisville , Staff Artist Ray Harm j 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership: dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Greeni Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Dr. Herbert L. Clay, Jr. for the excellent photograph of the Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) taken at Big Pond Sanctuary (See Field Notes). Ubb 0*4^ 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 THE WINTER SEASON, 1989-90 Anne L. Stamm Mild weather persisted through December 6. A few days later the pattern changed and one to four inches of snow fell all across the state. Temperatures began dropping by the middle of the month and it was 4 degrees below zero in Gallatin and Jefferson counties on December 16. A strong cold front brought a blast of arctic air into the state on December 21-24. Temperatures plunged from 9 to 23 degrees below zero in central Kentucky. The gusty winds produced a wind chill of 35-50 degrees below zero at Louisville. Lakes and rivers were ice-covered and waterfowl was found frozen in the ice. Some land birds were found dead due to the harsh weather. December experienced below-normal and January and February above¬ normal temperatures. It is interesting to note that Canada Geese were more numerous than usual, particularly in western Kentucky. Wintering Bald Eagles were numerous, perhaps due to frozen waters in the north. Interesting species of gulls were found on Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake. Winter finches were disappointing. Red Crossbills, White-winged Crossbills and Common Redpolls failed to show up, however, Pine Siskins were fairly common. Evening Grosbeaks were almost nonexistent. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; CBC = Christmas Bird Count; LBL = Land Between the Lakes. The transient lakes are Chaney and McElroy, south of Bowling Green, Warren County. Loons through Grebes — A single Common Loon was seen on a small pond southeast of Cool Springs in southern Ohio County on December 2 (BPB) and one was still present on Kentucky Lake above the dam on the LBL CBC on December 16. Several wintering Pied-billed Grebes were re¬ ported: 20 above Kentucky and Barkley Dams on January 5 (CP), nine at Green River Lake, Taylor County on January 14 (JE1), two on the Ohio River at Louisville on January 30 (LR) and one at the Cool Springs Lake, Ohio County on February 10 (KC et al.) . The only Horned Grebes noted in December were the three birds on the LBL CBC, however, a few began reappearing in mid-February with singles at Freeman Lake, Hardin Coun¬ ty (RH), at McElroy Lake, Warren County on February 18 (LR) and three there the following day (BPB). An Eared Grebe at the transient lakes on February 18 was unexpected (LR). Cormorants through Herons — A fair number of Double-crested Cor¬ morants was present before the cold weather in late December: at least 50 were seen at Lake Barkley, near Silo Overlook on December 10 (BPB), 20+ on Energy Lake, Land Between the Lakes on December 3 (BPB, Ed Ray), two flying over Shippingport Island, Jefferson County on December 20 (LR) and a single bird south of Markland Dam, Gallatin County on December 16 (KCa, JCa). One bird was still present on Lake Barkley on January 26 (JB, PB). Great Blue Herons were present in good numbers in early December, but January records showed fewer birds due to the cold and ice (m.ob. ). 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Swans through Geese — An adult Tundra Swan was present at BWMA from early to mid-December (BPB) and one reported on the Louisville CBC, December 17. Feral Mute Swans were numerous in late December: six were present on Cool Springs Lake in southern Ohio County on De¬ cember 23- February 10 (KC), up to eight there during that period — no date given (BPB). Two birds were noted on a small pond in southern Ohio County on February 3 (RH, KC). A large flock of “about 20 unspecified swans” was seen on Lake Barkley on December 26 by Ed Ray. The birds were seen daily until January 3 when he reported them to Carl Mowery and Clell Peterson who identified the birds as 17 Mute Swans (16 adults, one immature). Two of the birds were wearing yellow neck bands (no letters or numbers were seen on the bands). This is the largest flock ever reported in the state (CM, CP, Ed Ray). Only seven swans were present on January 5, the last date they were seen (CP, Ed Ray). A single bird was also observed at Towhead Island, Louisville on January 5 (LR). Five Greater White-fronted Geese (three adults, two immatures) were observed on a lake, locally known as Cooley’s Lake, in northeast Wayne County on December 10-February 7 (JE1, D. Elmore, Steve Kickert, Richard Hines) ; only three birds on the latter date and all were gone after that (JE1). Snow Geese peaked at 15,000-20,000 at BWMA on December 19 (CW); nine were on a small lake near Union, Boone County on December 2 (LMc) ; 10+ in southern Ohio County on January 27 (KC, BBC) ; an adult and an immature at Cooley’s Lake on December 3 (JE1) ; and three at McElroy Lake, Warren County as early as February 18 (LR). An adult Ross’ Goose was seen at McElroy Lake on February 24 (Gary Boggs fide BPB) and observed the following day, February 25 (BPB, DE) and still present on March 4 (BPB, JB, PB, LR). Canada Geese were numerous this winter and peaked at 170,000 at BWMA on December 19 (CW). The spe¬ cies was widespread with thousands in southern Ohio County on December 23 (KC) and a similar number in Muhlenberg and Ohio counties during late December and early January (BPB) ; 600+ at Mills Springs on Lake Cumberland, Wayne County on December 20 and 250+ at Cooley’s Lake on December 13 (JE1). January high records included 294 at Lake Pewee (JH), 300+ at a pond, locally known as Thurston’s Pond, Wayne County, north of Monticello, January 6 (JE1), 500+ at Larue County Sportsman Club Lake on January 7 (JE1), 150 on Honkers Lake, LBL on January 26 (JB, PB), 75-200 at different locales in Pulaski County (JE1), 200 + in a flooded field at East Bend, Boone County on February 11 were transi¬ ents moving northward (LMc). Smaller numbers were found in Taylor County (JE1) and Grant County (KCa, JCa). Ducks — The duck population peaked at BWMA on December 19 with 15,000 to 20,000 (CW) with the majority being Mallards. American Black Ducks and Mallards were more numerous in late December than the previ¬ ous year. The CBCs showed the former species as being up 59% and the latter species up 142% over the CBCs last year, probably due to the frozen waters up north. Wood Ducks began showing up at various locations in February with the earliest (several pairs) on February 8-9 near Swan Lake, Ballard County (BPB), a pair at Petersburg, Boone County on February 11 (LMc), four at Mills Springs on February 14 (JE1), others at Chaney Lake, Warren County (BPB) and Lentz’s Pond, Louisville (JB, PB) on February 19 and 25, respectively. A flock of at least 50 Green¬ winged Teal was still present at Honker Lake in LBL December 10 (BPB) and 15 was the largest number observed on Thurston’s Pond on January 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 37 16 (JE1) ; eight birds were present at a pond near Petersburg on Decem¬ ber 2 (LMc). Smaller numbers (1-5) were present in the early part of the winter at Lake Pewee (JH), LBL (JB, PB), and Louisville (JP, BBC). Ten Green-winged Teal had returned to McElroy Lake by February 19 (BPB) and two at Lentz’s Pond by February *25 (JB, PB). Northern Pintails were scarce during the winter, but a few began showing up at the Woodburn Lakes, Warren County on February 4 (BPB) and at Lentz’s Pond on February 25 (JB, PB). A fair number of Northern Shovelers remained through early to mid-December: 40 at Bailey Hollow, Calloway County on December 9 (CP), five at Cooley’s Lake, December 13 (JE1), and two at Lake Pewee on December 10 (JH). A male Northern Shoveler was a fairly early arrival on Kentucky Lake above the dam on February 11 (BPB et ah) ; and a dozen or more showed up at McElroy Lake on February 25 (BPB). Thirty Gadwalls were present at Thurston’s Pond from January 6 to February 28 (JE1) and ± 150 were counted at Bailey Hollow on January 13 (CP). American Wigeons were practically gone by the time of the CBCs, but earlier 75-100 were seen on Honker Lake, LBL on December 3 (BPB, Ed Ray) and 125 there on December 10 (BPB), while 75+ were noted at Cooley’s Lake on December 10 (JE1). Spring arrivals began showing up at Lentz’s Pond on February 25 (JB, PB) and 28 (LR). As usual, Canvasbacks were not numerous; highest number re¬ ported was the flock of 55 along the Ohio River, near Smithland, Living¬ ston County, February 11 (BPB, JE1 et ah). A few Redheads showed up in February: several in backwater near Swan Lake, Ballard County on February 9 and a male on McElroy Lake, February 25 (BPB) ; but 23 at Cooley’s Lake on February 28 (JE1). Few Ring-necked Ducks were present in December after the cold weather arrived, however, 10 were seen at Cool Springs Lake on December 23 (KC) and 35 observed at McDougal Creek Lake, Lai*ue County on January 14 (JE1). Spring migrants arrived by February 28 at Thurston’s Pond with 150+ there, 17 at a small pond near Northern Junior High School, Somerset, Pulaski County (JE1) ; 41 also present at Honker Lake, LBL on January 26 (JB, PB). Only a few Greater Scaup were present on the Ohio River at Louisville during the period (BPB). Three Oldsquaws were reported: one, a female, at Cooley’s Lake on December 13 (JE1) and two noted in flight over the Kentucky Dam on December 3 (BPB). Common Goldeneyes were not as numerous this year as last season, but about 100 were found in LBL (Honker Bay and Hema¬ tite Lake) on January 5 (CP). Others reported included two at Cool Springs Lake on December 23 (KC) ; six on Kentucky Utilities Company Pond just south of Markland Dam, Carroll County on January 1 (KCa, JCa), 36 at Honker Lake, LBL on January 26 (JB, PB), and six birds were on McElroy Lake on February 10 (BPB). Buffleheads were reported from only five locations with a high count of 40 at both Bailey Hollow (CP) and Thurston’s Pond (JE1) on January 5 and February 28, respec¬ tively. Fair numbers of Hooded Mergansers were present in the early part of December, but the majority had gone by the latter part of the month. High counts included: approximately 500 birds on Energy Lake, LBL, December 3-10 (BPB, Ed Ray), 150+ at Cooley’s Lake, December 10 (JE1), 50+ on Lake Pewee, December 10 (BPB) and 94 at Green River Lake, Taylor County, near the dam ( JE1 ) . A female Hooded Merganser remained on a small body of water at Mallard Creek crossing, Louisville throughout the month of February (KC). A concentration of more than 400 Common Mergansers was present at Honker Bay, LBL on January 5 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 (CP) and 60 were on Honker Lake, LBL on January 26 (JB, PB), while a flock of 90 birds was the peak count on Kentucky Lake above the dam on December 27 (BPB). Only a few Red-breasted Mergansers were re¬ ported: three on the Ohio River at Louisville, December 2 (JP, BBC), two at Cool Springs Lake on February 10 (KC et al.) and a male at McElroy Lake on February 18 (LR). Eighty-six was the high count of Ruddy Ducks at Lake Pewee on December 5 (JH) ; none were reported on the 23 CBCs; a pair was noted on McElroy Lake, February 25 (BPB). Raptors — A few Black Vultures were seen in Bullitt, Caldwell, Jef¬ ferson, Ohio and Taylor counties (m. ob. ), but 12 were seen flying over the Ohio River at Rabbit Hash, Boone County on January 13 (LMc). After the extremely cold weather in late December few Turkey Vultures were present, but birds began reappearing in mid-February. Wintering Bald Eagle numbers were encouraging with the Mid-winter survey totaling 299 birds (David Yancy, Jim Durell); details of the survey will be published later. Northern Harrier numbers appear to be improving and were more numerous on the CBCs this year compared to last year, particularly on the Paradise count with a total of 65 compared to 40 last year. Sightings for this period were also received from Calloway (CP), Gallatin (KCa), Hop¬ kins (JH), Muhlenberg (BPB), Ohio (KC, BPB), Pulaski and Wayne (JE1) counties. There were modest increases in the number of Sharp- shinned, Cooper’s and Red-shouldered Hawks during the period. At least two immature Krider’s Hawks and an immature “Rufous” phase Red-tailed Hawk were observed on the surface mines of Ohio/Muhlenberg counties on February 10 (BPB, JE1). An adult Krider’s Hawk was also seen near McElroy Lake on February 19 (BPB, RH, DP). The Red-tailed Hawk population appears to be stable. Rough-legged Hawks were more wide¬ spread this year but may not have been more numerous; greatest numbers occurred in Ohio and Muhlenberg counties. Sightings other than on the CBCs included the following: various dates from December 10-February 10 in southern Ohio County with a high of six birds on the latter date (KC, et al.) ; one at Devon, Boone County on February 28 (C. Whalen) ; one at Fort Knox, Hardin County, January 6 (RH) and four in Ohio River bot¬ toms above Bayou, Livingston County on Februai'y 11 (BPB). Two imma¬ ture Golden Eagles were observed soaring over Honker Lake and Energy Lake in the LBL on December 3 (BPB, Ed Ray); two reported from Bern- heim Forest, Bullitt County “during the winter” (M. McClure fide BPB). Although at the present writing the Mid-winter eagle survey is incomplete/ on January 30 it appears that a total of seven Golden Eagles (six adults and one immature) was found (D. Yancy, Jim Durell). A Merlin was seen on Surrey Hills Farm, Louisville on December 25, and was probably the same bird as was photographed there in late November (BPB). A Prairie Falcon was studied carefully at Burgin, Mercer County on January 2 (docum. by WK, E. D. Caldwell) and another was seen at Munfordville, Hart County on December 18 (SK). Cranes through Shorebirds — American Coots were in lower numbers than last year and the majority left after the severe cold weather in late December. Some American Coots were found frozen in the ice of Kentucky I Lake. At twilight on December 22 Clell Peterson saw a red fox “feasting on coots frozen in the ice.” This same scene was also witnessed an hour earlier , by Michael Miller. After the 15 to 23 degrees below zero temperatures subsided it was interesting to find 200 coots at Birmingham Point, LBL 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 and more than 300 at Bailey Hollow on January 6 and 13, respectively (CP). Migrant American Coots began returning in small numbers at Lake Pewee (JH) and in southern Ohio County (KC) on February 8 and 10, respectively and 150 at McElroy Lake by February 25 (BPB). Sandhill Cranes were still migrating over Kentucky on December 1 where a flock of 600 was noted over northeast Jefferson County (MSu), several groups totaling 300 over southeast Jefferson County (FK, Jr., F. Krull, Sr., J. Krull) and a few over Hart County (SK). Later December records in¬ cluded 25-30 over BPS (KC) and 500 over St. Matthews, suburb of Louis¬ ville, as late as December 21 (DN). A single Sandhill Crane lingered on a farm, near Burlington, Boone County January 9-10 and observed “later into February” (LMc). The bird appeared capable of flying and its pro¬ longed presence suggests that it wintered there. Returning birds began appearing in mid-February with about 30 in Hart County (SK), eight at McElroy Lake on February 19 (BPB, RH, DP) and at least 150 or more in farmland in west Hardin County, near Cecelia in late February (JN). Shorebirds — Lingering shorebirds included a Lesser Yellowlegs at Lake Pewee, December 10, a late date (BPB), six Western Sandpipers at Jonathan Creek, Marshall County, December 7-13 (CP — no details), five Least Sandpipers at Paradise Steam Plant, Muhlenberg County, December 2 (BPB), two Dunlin at Paradise Steam Plant, December 2 (BPB), three at Lake Pewee, December 10 (BPB) and 11 at Jonathan Creek, December 13 (CP). Fair numbers of Common Snipe appeared in early December with 29 at Lake Pewee on December 5 (JH) and 16 at Jonathan Creek, Decem¬ ber 7 (CP), but few were around in late December. Returning American Woodcocks were heard February 5 in Hardin County (RH) and at BPS on February 11 (KC) and about the same time in Calloway (BPB) and Barren (RS) counties. Gulls — Small numbers (2-100) of Bonaparte’s Gulls were present in six locations in early December, but few could be found after the severe cold of late December (m.ob.). A few began reappearing on February 11 on Lake Barkley at Silo Overlook (BPB, JE1, LR). Normal numbers of Ring-billed Gulls were at the western Kentucky Lakes during the period, however, numbers were reduced in late December. The 300+ birds at Green River Lake, Taylor County on January 14 were unusual (JE1). A few were present at the Cool Springs Lake area on February 10 (KC). Herring Gulls were few in the early part of December, but the cold weather brought 3000 to 5000 to the vicinity of Kentucky Dam by December 26-27 (BPB). An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was seen on Kentucky Lake above the dam on the LBL CBC, December 16 (DP, BPB); one, possibly two, adults were present above Kentucky Dam, December 26-27 (BPB), with CM on 27th). An adult Glaucous Gull was also observed on Lake Barkley on LBL CBC, December 16 (BPB, DP) ; and one, perhaps two, first-year birds noted near Kentucky Dam on December 26-27 (BPB, with CM on 27th). A Great Black-backed Gull (adult) and two first-year birds were present in the vicinity of Kentucky Dam on December 26-27 (BPB, with CM on the 27th). This represents the first occurrence in the state of more than one bird. At least one, perhaps two first-year and at least one, perhaps two adult Thayer’s Gulls were present in the Kentucky Dam area, December 26-27 (BPB, with CM on 27th). Owls through Woodpeckers — Only one Snowy Owl was reported and that was seen during the week of the Lexington CBC. Two Long-eared 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Owls were present in eastern Muhlenberg County from mid-December- January 1 (BPB) ; one in extreme southern Ohio County, January 27 (JB, PB et al. fide KC) ; an injured bird was picked up during the first week of January near Mundys Landing, in extreme southern Woodford County and turned over to a veterinarian. The bird did not recover from its injury (Jack Dyer fide BPB). Short-eared Owls were again numerous in southern Ohio and Muhlenberg counties. Twenty-five to 35 were counted on Decem¬ ber 9-10 in Ohio County (KC) while a total of 64 was on the Paradise CBC, January 1 (BPB et al.). Other records were: three birds at the Outer Loop Landfill, southern Jefferson County during December and January (m.ob. ), one at Standiford Airport, Louisville, January 8 (RH), several north of Danville in late December (WK). One bird was found dead at the Louisville Airport mentioned above on January 21, possibly hit by an airplane (RH, m.ob.). The Rufous Hummingbird which had been at a feeder at BPS since August was last seen on December 16 when the temperature was 10 degrees below zero (KC, HC). Belted Kingfishers were quite scarce in Boone County where none were recorded on the Burlington CBC for the “first time in 15 years” (LMc). Numbers were lower elsewhere in the state during the latter part of December and early I January. Numbers were greatly reduced too for the Red-headed Woodpecker during late December. Larks through Kinglets — Despite the cold weather in late December ! Horned Larks were present in fairly good numbers during the CBC period (December 16 to January 3). In fact, the total number on the counts was almost double that of last year. A Tree Swallow was observed at Green River Lake, Taylor County on the late date of December 30 (JE1, D. Elmore) and a spring arrival was fairly early at McElroy Lake on Febru¬ ary 18 (LR). Although Red-breasted Nuthatches were present in low numbers during the winter months, a few were observed throughout the period. Winter Wrens were present in about average numbers. Golden- ! crowned Kinglets were numerous and widespread this period (m.ob.). Thrushes through Shrikes — Eastern Bluebirds were widespread, but in lower numbers than last winter, but still a good population. Wintering i Hermit Thrushes were more numerous than usual. The number of Ameri¬ can Robins was greatly reduced in late December. They apparently moved farther south due to the severe weather since numbers were much higher last year. At least 10 Brown Thrashers were observed on December 30- January 1 at various locations after the cold weather (m.ob.). A Water Pipit lingered through December 16 in Gallatin County (KCa, JCa) and i an early transient was seen on Surrey Hills Farm on February 26 (BPB). ' Cedar Waxwings were in fairly good numbers in central and northern Kentucky, but low numbers in the western part of the state. The Logger- head Shrike population appeared to be comparable to last year. Interesting records included single birds off HWY 90 in northern Wayne County and in Russell County on December 13 and January 7, respectively (JE1). February 3-9 records were of single birds in Breckinridge, two locations in Grayson and Hardin counties (KC). Warblers through Finches — Yellow-rumped Warblers were few in western and northern Kentucky, but in late December the population across the state was slightly above last year. The birds were more numerous j at Mammoth Cave National Park and at Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County I than elsewhere. In addition to the four Pine Warblers on the Frankfort 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 41 CBC and the one on the LBL count, a male was seen in pines in eastern Muhlenberg County on December 24 (BPB). An Ovenbird was found dead on February 9 in the Audubon Park area in Louisville. The bird was last seen alive on December 21 ( fide JB, PB) and perhaps was a victim of the extremely cold days in late December. A male Spotted Towhee, the western race of the Rufous-sided Towhee, was found on the Otter Creek Park CBC, December 31. The bird remained through February 4 (Richard Cassell, BPB). American Tree Sparrows were in higher numbers than last year with fair numbers in Boone, Gal¬ latin, Ohio, Meade and Muhlenberg counties (m.ob. ). A Chipping Sparrow was seen frequently from November 29-December 26 at a feeder in Murray, Calloway County (CP). In addition to the few Savannah Sparrows on four CBCs, a few were found in fields near McElroy and Chaney Lakes in February (BPB). White-throated Sparrows were down in Woodford (SH) and Jefferson (S) counties and fewer numbers were on the CBCs than last winter. The largest number at a feeding station in Madisonville was 22 on December 23 (JH). White-crowned Sparrows were in lower numbers than usual. An adult Harris’ Sparrow was present at a feeder in Nicholas- ville, Jessamine County on January 25 (EB). Fox Sparrows were more numerous than last winter. Lapland Longspurs were present in very low numbers, but it was encouraging that they were found in five counties: one heard calling as it passed overhead in Ballard County on December 10 (BPB); at least six with a flock of Horned Larks in western Fulton County on December 17 (BPB); an immature female at the Outer Loop Landfill in southern Jefferson County, December 18 (RH) ; five on the Peabody Homestead Surface Mine, Ohio County on December 23 (KC) ; two on Chamberlain Lane, Jefferson County (JB, PB) ; and up to six during December and early January in Jefferson and Oldham counties (BPB). The only Snow Buntings reported were the two observed in eastern Muhlenberg County on the Paradise CBC, January 1 (BPB, DE). At least two Western Meadowlarks were observed (and the distinctive call note of one bird was heard) from a flock of 25-30 + meadowlarks in western Fulton County, December 17 (BPB, R. Cassell, D. Parker). A flock of Rusty Blackbirds (about 1000) was seen on the Outer Loop Landfill during January (RH). Five to 10 Brewer’s Blackbirds were noted in farmland near McElroy Lake on February 4, 10, 19 (m.ob.) and 15 of this rare transient were counted foraging on the shore of McElroy on February 25 (BPB). Although Purple Finches were fairly well distributed, numbers were not large and there were fewer birds in January and February (B. West). House Finches continue to be numerous and at a feeder in Science Hill, Pulaski County 100+ birds were present during the period (JE1) ; at least 100 also noted at feeders in a Bowling Green, Warren County yard during the winter months (W. Mathes). Smaller numbers at feeders included 35 + at Louisville, Jefferson County (S. FS), 20-30 at Murray (CP), and 20 + at BPS (KC). Pine Siskins were present in fair numbers and widely dis¬ tributed: 50 were present at feeders at Valley Station, southwest Jefferson County on January 12 and continued there through February and some were still present through April (DS) ; 35-40 at Hanson, Hopkins County (B. West fide JH) ; peaked at 30 at Murray (CP) ; 36 birds at LBL on January 26 (JB, PB). The birds were evident throughout the winter season at several locations in northern Boone County (LMc) and at Madi¬ sonville from December 4-February 1 (JH). American Goldfinches were 42 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 not as numerous as last winter. There were no Evening Grosbeaks except for the two reported at New Haven, Nelson Countv on February 9 ( fide JB). Contributors — Mary Bill Bauer (MB), Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Earl Boggs (EB), Gary Boggs (GB), Joe Caminiti (JCa), K. Camaniti (KCa), Kathryn Clay (KC), Herbert L. Clay, Jr. (HC), Tony Eaden (TE), Diane Ebel (DE), Jackie Elmore ( J El ) , Richard Healy (RH), James W. Hancock (JH), Smith Hundley (SH), William Kemper (WK), Steve Kistler (SK), Frank Krull, Jr. (FK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Carl Mowery (CM), Joan Noel (JN), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), D. Parker (DP), Jim Pasikowski (JP), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS),i Midge Susie (MSu), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Wilkins (CW),' C. Whalen. — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241. THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY SPRING MEETING — APRIL 27-29, 1990 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 67th annual meeting at Rough River State Resort Park on April 27-29, 1990. Virginia Kingsolver, president, opened the Friday evening session with a welcome to members and guests. Lee McNeely, vice-president, introduced the evening program speakers. Blaine Ferrell presented a Tree Swallow nesting study. Dr. Herbert Clay told about a vagrant Rufous Hummingbird that came to their feeder in Grayson County for an extended period of time last season. He had excellent slides of the bird. Burt Monroe presented a study of numbers of birds in the breeding bird survey correlated with winter; temperatures. The evening program concluded with a short photo quiz! for which members brought 1 or 2 slides. An informal social hour followed the program. The weather was partly cloudy with bits of rain and sunshine for the Saturday morning field trips. Lee McNeely led one group in the lodge area and Kathryn Clay led the other group to Falls of Rough. The Clays entertained the entire group with a lovely lunch at their Big Pond Sanctuary. Members walked the trails and observed the many birds that came to their feeders. The Board of Directors met at 3:30 p.m. in the lodge. After a buffet dinner in the lodge dining room, the group assembled for the Saturday evening program. Virginia Kingsolver introduced Steve1 Maslowski, from Cincinnati, a wildlife photographer with many credits in his field. His program, “Outdoor Yearbook”, included a movie of out¬ door life through the year with excellent photos of life in a Great Horned Owl’s nest, a gray fox’s den and American Robins and Northern Cardinals! sharing a nest. A resolution from the Board was read expressing KOS’s gratitude to the Clays for their generous hospitality. The weather was sunny and warm for the Sunday morning field trips. One trip went to the Ohio County strip mine area and the rest of the group wandered in the lodge area and along the air strip. Blaine Ferrell compiled the bird list which totaled 122 species including Sunday morning’s count. Seventy-six people registered for the meeting. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 ATTENDANCE AT THE SPRING MEETING AT ROUGH RIVER STATE RESORT PARK ANCHORAGE: Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Rose Monroe, Mark Monroe BEAVER DAM: Charlotte Moseley BOWLING GREEN: Blaine Ferrell, Don Freeman, Vera Freeman, Ruth Mathes, William Mathes, Herbert E. Shadowen, Jackie Shadowen BUCKHORN : Eileen Sandlin BURLINGTON: Lee McNeely, Lynda McNeely CALVERT CITY: Henry Lecky, Veda Lecky CARLISLE: Virginia Kingsolver, Wendell Kingsolver COX’S CREEK: Dona Coates, Roger Coates CRITTENDEN: Kathy Caminiti CYNTHIANA: William Wiglesworth DANVILLE : Neil Eklund, Virginia Eklund ELIZABETHTOWN: Bobbie Rickert, Jon Rickert FALLS OF THE ROUGH: Joyce Porter, Dora Lee St. Clair FLORENCE: Joan Carey HAZARD: Dennis Sandlin HODGENVILLE: Susan Cruse LEITCHFIELD : Alita Wilson, Montelle Wilson LEXINGTON : Jean Flynn, Michael Flynn, Gerry Williams, James Williams LOUISVILLE: Robert K. Brown, Joe Brue, Sandy Brue, Herbert L. Clay, Jr., Kathryn Clay, Shannon Coblin, Diane Ebel, Stephen Figg, Don Jones, Judi Jones, Tim Love, Kathryn Mudd, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Martha Pike, Robert Pike, Frank Schoettler, Bernice Shannon, F. P. Shannon, Anne L. Stamm, F. W. Stamm, Donald Summerfield MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe, Katie Busroe MURRAY : Clell Peterson OWENSBORO: Margaret Craig, Lydia Greenwell, A. L. Powell, Milly Powell, W. T. Perkins, Ed Wilson, Elinor Wilson PADUCAH: Bernice Caddell STANLEY : Anna Lee Stevenson, Thomas Stevenson EVANSVILLE, INDIANA: John Humphrey, Angela Pickron RICHMOND, INDIANA: Janet Wickersham DYERSBURG, Tennessee: Betty Leggett, Kenneth Leggett 44 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE ANNUAL SPRING MEETING, 1990 Birds observed on Saturday field trips within a 15-mile diameter circle centered at Rough River State Resort Park included : Double-crested Cor¬ morant, Great Blue Heron, Green-backed Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Red-breasted Merganser, Black Vulture, Tui'key Vulture, Osprey, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad¬ winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Northern Bobwhite, Killdeer, Solitary Sandpiper, Willet, Spotted Sandpiper, Ring-billed Gull, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Screech-Owl, Chuck-will’s-widow, Whip-poor-will, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hum¬ mingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Wood¬ pecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Horned Lark, Purple Martin, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Cliff Swallow, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay,i American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, House Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnateateher, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Cat¬ bird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Water Pipit, Cedar Waxwing, Loggerhead Shrike, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated; Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Yellow- rumped Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Palm Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Ovenbird, Northern Waterthrush, Louisiana Waterthrush, Ken¬ tucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Hooded Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Dickcissel, Rufous-sided Towhee Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Henslow’s Sparrow, Song Sparrow White-throated Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Red¬ winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Common Graekle, Brown-headec, Cowbird, Orchard Oriole, Northern Oriole, Purple Finch, House Finch, Pint1 Siskin, American Goldfinch and House Sparrow for a total of 116 species, Additional species observed on Sunday field trips were Black-billed Cuckoo Barred Owl, Solitary Vireo, Cape May Warbler, Black-throated Greer Warbler and Blackpoll Warbler bringing the weekend total to 122 species FIELD NOTES FIRST KENTUCKY RECORD OF THE RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD The adult male Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) is easily differentiated from the Allen’s Hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin) by it: rufous colored back with only occasional and very slight tufts of greei on the back. Its chip note is quite similar to the Allen’s. There is a musica or mechanical buzz to the wing beat of the Rufous and this, although no as loud or high-pitched as the Broad-tailed Hummingbird (Selasphorui platycercus) , is quite characteristic and certainly different from the Ruby throated Hummingbird’s (Archilochus colubris) wing beat which we hea: so commonly in Kentucky. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 45 The normal breeding range of the Rufous Hummingbird in western North America is from southeastern Alaska, south Yukon, eastcentral British Columbia, southwestern Alberta, western Montana south through Washington and Oregon to the Trinity Mountain region of northwestern California and southern Idaho; it then migrates to winter in Mexico to Guerrero and Veracruz. Its migration path normally includes Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. During migration the Rufous Hummingbird has frequently wandered far from its normal course and has been reported frequently in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minne¬ sota with scattered reports from Ontario and even from Nova Scotia ( The Hummingbirds of North America, p. 177, Paul A. Johnsgard). As observers of hummingbirds, my wife, Kathryn, and I have been privileged to study and enjoy from ten to thirty Ruby-throated Humming¬ birds every year at Big Pond Sanctuary in Grayson County for the past nineteen years. It is the primary hummingbird that one sees east of the Mississippi River. On Monday evening September 25, 1989, Kathryn and I arrived at our Sanctuary. We knew that all of the adult males had left about fourteen days previously. The adult females left one week later, and we had four immature Ruby-throated Hummingbirds prior to the 25th of September. It was getting dark while we were sitting on our sun deck watching for the remaining immature hummers when Kathryn noticed a hummingbird with a dark gorget; we presumed that it was a late migrant male Ruby- throated Hummingbird. However, a few minutes later it flew down from its perch in a dogwood tree. I noticed a beautiful copper color on its back and immediately recognized it as a Rufous Hummingbird! I had enjoyed photographing this bird during its migration in Arizona, so I was famliar with it. We immediately called our Louisville Bird Alert, and the following day we had interested “birders” arrive from various sections of Kentucky and the surrounding states. I was anxious to photograph the Rufous but did not want to disturb it, so I photographed it from inside the house through glass, which was not satisfactory. As the bird gradually became familiar with us, I moved outside and started to use flash equipment, ultimately with two flash units four feet from a feeder. I installed a blue background cloth behind the feeder (to soften the background light) and was able to obtain flash pictures at about 1/30,000 of a second. This did not seem to disturb the bird. I recorded the times of feeding which initially were from 7:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and later from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, on December 16, it fed until 5:45 p.m. An interesting observation due to my high speed photography, was that the first primary was quite thin and formed a notch between the first and second primaries. This is not present in the Ruby-throated Hum¬ mingbird. And, in studying the high speed flash pictures of the Broad¬ tailed Hummingbird in Crawford H. Greenwalt’s book ( Hummingbirds , 1960) I noticed that his pictures of the Broad-tailed Hummingbird’s pri¬ maries are almost identical to the primaries in my pictures of the Rufous. This may be the explanation for the distinct musical or mechanical sound of the Rufous’ wing beat because the characteristic high-pitched sound of the Broad-tailed is described by Greenwalt as being due to the thin 46 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 first primary, producing a notch in the wing between the first and second primary. The Rufous at Big Pond Sanctuary had strayed approximately 1,000 miles off course and stayed at our feeders from September 25 until De¬ cember 16, 1989. In October, with increasingly colder weather accompanied by severe frosts, the insects began to diminish, and I was concerned about the bird’s protein and fiber intake. I prepared a formula for our nectar feeders consisting of V3 cup of Gevral, 1 cup of sugar and 3 cups of dis¬ tilled water (I referred to this as the Gevral Formula). Initially, I mixed, a solution consisting of 14 Gevral Formula and 34 sugar water (3 to II solution). I used this mixture until December 12 when I mixed a formula called “Nectar 3” from “Roudybush” in Davis, California. This was made by adding 3 oz. of “Nectar 3” powder to 240 cc. of warm water. As directed : by “Roudybush” I sterilized freezer trays and put the formula in them. On December 13, I filled two feeders with a new formula consisting : of 1 part “Roudybush Nectar 3” and 3 parts Gevral Formula. The feeder on our 6’ x 9’ front porch (which has a southeast exposure) was protected by panels of plywood on two sides. The feeder on our back I sun deck was placed in an enclosed box protruding from our bedroom window so I could record the frequency of the Rufous’ visits to it. I hung two thermometers and three outdoor light fixtures in the box; the lights were painted black. I inserted branches on which the bird could perch. On the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th of December the outside temperatures were, respectively, 15°F, 10°F, and 7°F. But inside the box the temperatures ranged from 36° F to 46° F. On the front porch the nectar froze until late in the day when the sun warmed the solution. Finally the temperature dropped to -15° F on December 15th. On December Kith the temperature was -10°F and the hummingbird was closely observed from 9:00 a.m. until 5:45 p.m. This was the latest it had ever fed, and during this day it consumed 18 gms. of nectar, approximately 5.6 times its body weight assuming 3.2 gms. as the average body weight of the male adult Rufous Hummingbird. It did not reappear on December 17, 1989. In conclusion, it can only be conjectured as to its final fate. Since we did not know where it roosted, we could not look for it adequately in the dense undergrowth, but we tried without success. We concluded that it may have gone into a torpid state from which it never recovered or, since it had such a feeding frenzy on December 16th, it may have decided to move on to a warmer climate. If it did so it would not have survived the weather in our southern states because the flowers had frozen and the feeders had been removed. There remain more questions than answers about over-wintering hum¬ mingbirds. Should we even try to help them survive? Should we trap or mist net them and transport them to an aviary or a warmer climate? Should we keep them in a basement or an inside room? If so, when should we release them? Or should they be collected for students and professors of Ornithology to study? After much soul-searching, Kathryn and I decided that since the Rufous seemed to be strong, vigorous and active, we would leave it alone and if we had had a mild winter, we definitely believe it would have survived. — HERBERT L. CLAY, JR., 434 Mallard Creek Road, Louisville, KY 40207. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 47 CINNAMON TEAL AT BOWLING GREEN On the late afternoon of 23 April 1989, I was on my way home from birding at the transient lakes near Woodburn, Warren County, when I stopped along US-31 W just south of Bowling Green to observe a group of waterfowl on a small pond on the Western Kentucky University Farm. Among a group of about a dozen Blue-winged Teal (A?ias cliscors), I observed a male Cinnamon Teal ( Anas cyanoptera) feeding along the margin of the pond. The bird appeared to be paired with a female teal, presumed to be a Blue-winged based on the size of its bill and general coloration and feather patterns. The two birds remained in close prox¬ imity to one another during the entire hour or more that I observed them, and the drake repeatedly drove male Blue-winged’s away from the female. The male Cinnamon Teal was identical in all respects to the species as depicted in field guides. Its entire body plumage was a bright rufous- red except for the feathers of the back, which were a mottled brown, buff and black. The vent was black, and when the bird flapped its wings, whitish underwing linings and the “teal” blue patch on the upperside of the wings were obvious. The legs were dull yellowish with darker feet, and the bill was rather long and blackish. Characteristic of males of this species, the eye was bright red. The Cinnamon Teal appeared fairly wary, and there was no indication of feather wear or an abnormal level of tameness, both clues to the possibility of the bird having originated in captivity. Several photographs were obtained through a Questar telescope showing all field mai'ks except the red eye. Duplicates of these have been deposited with Anne L. Stamm, Seasonal Reports editor for The Kentucky Warbler. Soon after discovering the bird, I made a call to Dr. Blaine Ferrell who was able to see the male teal before sunset, and Don Parker observed the bird at the same pond on the 24th. Later trips made by others to see the bird were apparently unsuccessful. This represents the third Kentucky record for the Cinnamon Teal. The other records were from Campbell County on 20 March 1951 (Mengel, Birds of Kentucky, p. 184) and Fulton County on 30 April 1985 (KW 61:43, 1985). — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222. CLAY-COLORED SPARROW ON SURREY HILLS FARM On the morning of 17 May 1989, I was birding on my family’s farm in northeastern Jefferson County when I found a Clay-colored Sparrow (Spxzella pallida). The bird was first seen when I inadvertently frightened it from the ground near the edge of a large hayfield. As luck would have it, the sparrow alighted in the top of a small tree in a shrubby fenceline less than thirty feet away from me where I was able to study it through 9x35 binoculars in excellent light. During the time of observation, all field marks characteristic of a Clay-colored Sparrow were noted including its long, forked tail and boldly- marked face pattern. The bird superficially resembled a Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) , but was overall more of a buff-brown in tone than the rufous-brown of a Chippy. The crown was a medium brown with a light median stripe and light supercilium. Surrounding and behind the eye was a roughly triangular patch of brown surrounded by lighter color. Below 48 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 the light malar area was a well-defined, dark streak. The middle of the I nape, back and wings were a medium brown with streaks of darker color and buff. The sides of the nape were distinctly gray. The wings were marked with two light but distinct wingbars on the greater and median primary coverts. The bill was brownish with a suffusion of yellow on the mandible; the legs were flesh-colored. The underparts were generally a light gray but graded into a wash of buff on the breast and whitish belly. On several occasions, a sharp but rather quiet flight note was given, some¬ what intermediate between that of a Field Sparrow ( Spizella pusilla) and a Chipping Sparrow. After a couple of minutes, the sparrow flew off and returned to the ground to feed amidst a fairly heavy cover of grass. After cautiously pursuing it, I was able to flush the bird back into a shrub in the fenceline where I confirmed the above noted field marks. When the sparrow dropped into the hayfield again, I retreated and called several members of the Beckham Bird Club. Within three-quarters of an hour Dr. Burt Monroe, < Jr. and Don Parker arrived and after approximately fifteen minutes we < successfully relocated the bird in the same field. Upon flushing, the spar- s row returned to the same fenceline where it posed patiently in less than optimal (but sufficient) light for viewing, enabling us to study all field marks through a Questar telescope. During this latter observation, I was able to obtain several photo¬ graphs through the telescope that turned out quite well given the poor lighting. Color prints of the bird clearly showing most field marks noted i have been deposited with Anne L. Stamm, Seasonal Reports editor for The Kentucky Warbler, and represent the first photographic documen¬ tation of the Clay-colored Sparrow in Kentucky. Prior to this observation, the species had been reported from the state only once, near Lexington on ; 7 May 1978 (KW 54:47, 1978). — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222. NEWS AND VIEWS MANY THANKS! The membership of the Kentucky Ornithological Society expresses its sincere appreciation to Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Clay for their outstanding contribution to the 1990 spring meeting. The success of the weekend was assured by their superb hospitality both in binding opportunities at Big Pond Sanctuary and a delicious luncheon served at their home. I ie Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) IN THIS ISSUE ST MEMORIAM, ROBERT M. MENGEL, 1921-1990, Burt L. Monroe, Jr. . 51 HE SPRING SEASON, 1990, Anne L. Stamm 52 HE KENTUCKY BALD EAGLE COUNT FOR 1990, James Durell, David Yancy . 63 HE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP ROLL 64 IELD NOTES 73 EWS AND VIEWS 80 AUGUST, 1990 - HTT OL. 66 50 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Vice-President Lee McNeely, Burlington Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Kathryn Mudd 4107 Ciremos Terrace, Louisville, 40222 Recording Secretary Donnie Spencer, Hazard Councillors: Gary Ritchison, Richmond 1988-1990 Jeff Jones, Bowling Green 1988-1990 Clell Peterson, Murray 1989-1991 1 Bert Powell, Maceo 1989-1991 Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist Jim Williams, Lexington Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membershipi dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., for the excellent photograph of; the Bell’s Vireo (Vireo bellii) nest taken at the Peabody Martwick Surface Mine, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky on 26 May 1989 (See, Field Notes). >0 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 51 IN MEMORIAM ROBERT M. MENGEL, 1921-1990 Robert M. Mengel was born on 19 August 1921 at Glenview, Kentucky, and died 15 January 1990 in Lawrence, Kansas, at the age of 68. No one since the time of John James Audubon has had as great an impact on Kentucky Ornithology as Bob Mengel. It was he who produced the first definitive work on birds from the state with The Birds of Kentucky in 1965 (American Ornithological Union’s Ornithological Monograph No. 3). Not only was it a great contribution for the state’s ornithology, but the work was of such high quality that this treatise has since become a model for state bird books. Bob was the nearest thing I ever had to a brother. A few years older than I, he became my father’s protege in birds. The story of his association with my family in his -early days (and my even earlier ones) was related magnificently by Bob (known to all of us then as “Bobby”) in his me- moriam to my father, and I direct you to that article for the full story (1971, The Auk 88: 88-96). But my own recollections of those early days are dim, inasmuch as I was at a very young age. I came to know Bob much better in our associations through the American Ornithologists’ Union in later years. After attending secondary schools in Louisville and in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Bob was drafted and served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1942 to 1946, a year and a half of which he spent overseas (I remem¬ ber vividly his recounting of his adventures while stationed in the Middle East in Arabia, Egypt and Libya). Following the service, he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in 1947 at Cornell University, and obtained his Master of Arts degree in 1950 and his Doctor of Philosophy in 1958 at the University of Michigan. In 1953, he became a University Research Associate at the University of Kansas, and he taught as an Instructor and Lecturer in Zoology at Kansas until 1967. From 1967 to the time of his death, he was Curator-in-charge of Ornithology at the Museum of Natural History at Kansas, as well as Associate Professor (then Professor) in Systematics and Ecology. Between 1947 and 1958, Bob was married to Jane Strahan, who helped him considerably during his trips in Kentucky gathering data for the Kentucky book. This marriage ended in divorce, but he was later married to Marion Jenkinson (1963 to the present). Marion is at Kansas and is also an excellent ornithologist in her own right; currently she is Treasurer of the A.O.U. Bob was a multi-talented person. Perhaps his greatest talent, and one shared by few indeed, was his ability as a bird artist. He was one of the very best in the ornithological world. Although he had numerous paintings published as well as displayed at most of the bird art shows, he was prob¬ ably best known for his illustrations in Ralph Palmer’s Handbook of North American Birds series (Yale University Press, 1962, and volumes published since then to the present). I presently have several of his paintings hanging on my walls, including probably his first serious one of a Peregrine Falcon with a captured Blue-winged Teal, perched on the lone dead tree left on a small island in the Ohio River just offshore from Glenview (the island is now gone, but some of you may recall its existence better than 40 years ago ) . Bob was also superb with the pen. In addition to the Kentucky book, THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 52 Vol.66 he published over 100 papers in scientific journals. He was editor of several journals and publication series, the most notable of which were The Auk from 1963-1967 and the Monograph Series (mentioned earlier) from 1970 to 1974. He was also never at a loss for words. He could be sharp and caustic if he felt such criticism was deserved, but he was never unfair; however, I know many an author who cringed when he learned that Bob was reviewing his book. But the thing I remember most about Bob Mengel was his wit. He had a terrific sense of humor and was as quick with an appropriate retort and as clever with words as anyone I ever knew. Sitting around in a group and listening to Bob Mengel, my father, and several of their cronies going at it during one of the off-hours at an A.O.U. or Wilson Society meeting was one of the great pleasures I can recall in my younger days. In some of those sessions, I had been literally rolling on the floor with laughter. Bob’s passing marks one of the saddest times for Ornithology. I know of no one who will ever be able to do the things for Ornithology, especially for Kentucky, that he did. Bob Mengel will be sorely missed by everyone, j Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Department of Biology University of Louisville Louisville, Kentucky 40292 THE SPRING SEASON, 1990 Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. This spring was unusual weather-wise. March was warmer than usual; From March 1-15 the temperature averaged 13° above normal. On Marchl 10 the temperature hit 79° and set a record at Paducah; a temperature of! 80° at Louisville on March 14 also broke a record. At Louisville the month; averaged 6.1° above normal. Precipitation averaged 1.95 inches below normal. April was cool for the most part except for the last week in the month The first 15 days at Louisville averaged 6° below normal and for the month averaged 1.1° below normal. Precipitation for the month averaged 0.69 inches below normal May was unusually wet all over the state; the rainfall at Louisville was 11.57 inches for the month and was the highest ever for the month of May averaging 7.42 inches above normal. The temperature averaged 1.2° below normal. Abbreviations: BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beck ham Bird Club; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Rowan County; KDFWR = Ken tucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources; KOS = Kentucky Or nithological Society; LBL — Land Between the Lakes; MCFH = Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park; PHSR' = Peabody Homestead Surface Mine, Ohio County; PKSM = Peabody Ken Surface Mine, Ohio County; RCSS = Rowan County Sphagnun Swamp; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Hendersoi County. Chaney and McElroy Lakes are the transient lakes south of Bowling Green, Warren County. Loons through Cormorants — Common Loons returned in late Marclj 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 53 with two birds first sighted at Lake Pewee on March 28 (JH) and five at BPS on March 31 (KC); fifteen birds had arrived on Kentucky Lake above the dam on April 1, at least one was still present on May 7 (BPB), and numbers were recorded at CRL (ten on April 14; 48 in one small group and five additional 100 yards away for a total of 53 on April 6; two on May 13; six on April 20; and one on May 22 - FB). Pied-billed Grebes were not numerous this year and were first noticed at McElroy Lake on March 9 (DCC) ; six was the maximum number reported there on March 24 (BPB). Birds were heard calling “as as if territorial” at three places on SWMA (BPB), and a bird was displaying on Caperton’s Swamp, Louisville on May 19 (BM) ; nesting at both locations may occur if water levels remain high. Although Horned Grebes were fairly widespread they were not as numerous as last year; five were first observed at McElroy Lake, Warren County on March 3 (BPB) where they peaked with 10-12 on March 17 (BPB) ; five were seen on the Ohio River at Louisville on March 6 (LR), one at Camp Ernst Lake, near Burlington, Boone County on March 7-8 (LMc), three on CRL on March 12, three on April 20 (FB), and one was as late as May 1 on Lake Barkley near Kuttawa (BPB). Numbers of Double-crested Cormorants continued to improve in some areas with maxima of 60+ to 75+ on Lake Barkley (JB, PB, and BPB, respectively), more than 100 on Mississippi River at Chalk Bluff, Hickman County (BPB) on May 6, and seven to 20 elsewhere (LR, K. Prather, BPB et al.) ; 16 were present at MCFH on April 14 (FB). Bitterns through Herons — Single Least Bitterns were heard at RCSS on May 23 and 25 (FB). Birds seldom recorded included two American Bitterns at Hardy Slough on April 1 (LR) and one bird there on April 21 (BPB, LR). Only small numbers of Great Blue Herons were reported this spring with 15 as the largest number observed flying in the vicinity of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley (JB, PB) ; up to ten birds were at MCFH between April 6 and May 23 (FB). Three nests were observed on the 20th Century portion of PKSM; two nests were being brooded by adults, and the third contained two large young on May 20 (BPB, LR, C. Rebar). Four Great Egrets were first observed at Reelfoot NWR on April 3 and 12 in that general vicinity on May 3 (BPB, Landon McKinney) ; three were at MCFH on April 20 (FB). A Snowy Egret was also seen at Reelfoot NWR on May 3 (same observers as above) ; three were seen on BWMA (Mitchell Lake) on May 6 (BPB, DP) and one on a slough nearby on May 7 (BPB, DP, J. T. Erwin). Little Blue Herons were first noted at BWMA and Swan Lake WMA on May 6 (BPB, DP), and about 15 on BWMA on May 7 (same observers plus J. T. Erwin). Cattle Egrets were not as numerous this spring as last year. Four birds were first noticed in flight near SWMA on April 29 (BPB), one along the Ohio River in Boone County on May 5 (JCam, KCam) ; a flock of 22 on a jetty at Kentucky Dam Village State Park with a large flock of gulls on May 6 (BPB, DP) ; about 25 each at both BWMA and Swan Lake WMA the following day (BPB, DP, J. T. Erwin) ; and a flock of 22 on Rose Island Road, Prospect, Jeffer¬ son County (BM, MM, S. Brown, L. McGrath). Green-backed Herons were scarce, only a few reported; two have been present at BPS from April 8- May 30 (KC), up to 18 at MCFH from April 6-May 30 (FB), and several at RCSS from May 6-23 (FB) ; singles at two other locations. Black- crowned Night-Herons returned to Shippingport Island by March 16 where 19 were observed (LR) ; one along the Ohio River, Steel Bottom Road, Gallatin County on March 25 (JCam, KCam) ; four at Marydale Lake, Boone County on April 9 (KCam); up to five at MCFH from April 13- 54 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 May 18 (FB) ; and an adult first noted at Chaney Lake on April 22 (BPB, DE). One adult was at a small lake across the street from our house on April 17, but three were there three days later (S, FS). Numbers began arriving by May 1 when 161 were counted at Shippingport Island (LR;, and the birds had returned to Lake Barkley rookery by May 4-7 where they were numerous in the trees (BPB). In Louisville during May, the Ohio River was high on the Falls of the Ohio, causing the herons to [ disburse. Three Yellow-crowned Night Herons were present on the River ! Road at Louisville on March 17 and four near Brownsboro Road, Louisville on April 9 (KC) ; a pair was constructing a nest in a large sycamore tree in Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve, Louisville, on April 25 (BM). Waterfowl — A Tundra Swan was present near the Grassy Pond Unit of Sloughs WMA in western Henderson County on March 11 (LR, BPB, DE). Two Mute Swans were observed on ponds adjacent to U.S. 62 four miles west of Georgetown, Scott County on March 21 and April 4 (FK). Small numbers of Canada Geese were found at a few places where they are seldom seen: one at Long Run County Park, Jefferson County on April , 1 (S, FS), two at a small pond in Oldham County on May 6, and three at Williams Lake in the Ten Broeck subdivision, northeast Jefferson County I (S, FS). No others were reported. Snow Geese peaked at McElroy Lake on March 3 with 19 birds (three white morphs and 16 blue morphs — BPB). i A Ross’ Goose was present with the Snow Geese from late February-March 3 (BPB et ah). Fifteen Wood Ducks noted at Chaney Lake on March 10 i (BPB); five near Cool Springs-Wysox Lake, Ohio County on March 17 (KC); 20 birds at Hematite Lake area on April 13-15 (JB, PB) ; and four I to six at BPS most of the period (KC). The variety of waterfowl was I good in northern Kentucky, but numbers were low (LMc). It was a good migration of Green-winged Teal at the transient lakes this year: 50+ birds arrived at McElroy Lake by March 10 and 20 at Chaney Lake, a similar number at McElroy Lake on March 24 but 90 at Chaney Lake, and 75 were i still present at McElroy on March 31 and 50 at Chaney (BPB). Also, some 50+ birds were present in western Henderson County on March 11 and 30 at Reelfoot NWR, Fulton County on April 3 (BPB). Black Ducks were scarce. Twenty to 25 Northern Pintails were present during early March 1 at McElroy Lake and in western Henderson County on March 11 (BPB). Blue-winged Teal were not numerous but were widespread from March 22 (the earliest at Lake Pewee — JH) to April 10 (three birds) on a pond • in Spencer County (DC) with the largest concentration of 75-100 birds at Reelfoot NWR on April 3 (BPB). Northern Shovelers reached McElroy I Lake in late February with 12 there on March 3, numbers built up by i March 17, but peaked at 85 on March 24 (BPB); six were present at Lentz’s Pond, Louisville on March 9 (LR); four at Lake Pewee, Hopkins County from March 28-April 5 (JH) ; six on Cool Springs-Wysox Lake on March 17 (KC); about 12 on Lake Barkley on April 1 above the dam; 1 and about 50 at Reelfoot NWR on April 3, three birds lingering there until May 7 (BPB). About 50 Gadwalls were seen at McElroy Lake on March 3 with a peak of 50-75 there on March 10 (BPB); about 50 noted in western Henderson County on March 11 (BPB); and 35 at Reelfoot NWR on April 3 with 15 still present there on May 7 (BPB). Twenty-five to 50 American Widgeon were present at McElroy Lake from March 3 to March 10 with 30 still present on March 24 (BPB) and 38 at Chaney Lake on the latter date. Five to six birds were also observed on the Cool Springs-Wysox Lake on March 17 (KC). Canvasbacks were few: seven at McElroy Lake on March 3 (BPB), two at Lake Pewee on March 5 (JH), and three on 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 55 Lake Barkley above the dam on April 7 (BPB). A nice group of 60 Red¬ heads was found on McElroy Lake on March 3 (BPB). Fair numbers of Ring-necked Ducks were found with 107 on March 5 on Lake Pewee (JH), 125 at McElroy Lake on March 10 and 80 at Chaney Lake on March 24 (BPB), and two on the lake at Long Run County Park, Jefferson County, on April 1 (S). Five Greater Scaups appeared at Lake Pewee on March 28, and two still there on April 5 (JH); also reported at McElroy Lake on March 15 (no number given — DCC). Lesser Scaup were fairly widespread: twenty-three birds reached Lake Pewee on March 5 (JH) ; 75 on March 14 at CRL (FB); peaked at McElroy Lake with 225 on March 24 (BPB); about 250 on Lake Barkley above the dam and several hundred at Kentucky Lake above the dam on April 1 (BPB); and 102 at Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County, with a flock of 37 at a smaller lake nearby (LMc). Two Oldsquaws were recorded at McElroy Lake on March 17 and 18 (BPB et ah). A fair number of Buffleheads appeared at McElroy Lake with a peak of 40-50 on March 24 (BPB); 12 was the maximum at Lake Pewee on March 12 (JH); 30-40 birds were seen on Lake Barkley above the dam (BPB); and ten were present at CRL on March 12 (FB). Four Hooded Mergansers were seen on Lake Pewee on April 5 (JH) and present at McElroy (no number given — DCC). Three Common Mergansers were sighted at Kentucky Dam on April 13-15 (JB, PB). Red-breasted Mergan¬ sers were present from March 10-May 5, with several hundred on Lake Barkley above the dam on April 1, and small numbers (up to 12 on Kentucky Lake on May 1 ) were scattered about on the northern end of the lakes and on the Tennessee River through the first week of May (BPB) ; up to 15 were present on MCFH (FB). Highest concentration of Ruddy Ducks occurred at Lake Pewee with 58 on April 5 (JH) ; 45+ was the peak at McElroy Lake (BPB) ; and a few were present on MCFH from March 13- April 15 (FB). Raptors — Eight Black Vultures with six Turkey Vultures were ob¬ served eating dead fish in a draining reservoir on Mayfair Avenue, Louis¬ ville on March 30 (LR). Turkey Vultures peaked at MCFH with 100 on March 12 and 53 on March 14 (FB). Ospreys arrived on time, and a pair was attending a nest at Bayou, Livingston County on April 8 (BPB) and observed again in late May (D. Yancy, fide BPB) ; two birds were picking up sticks flying to a nest in the Honker Lake LBL area on April 13-15 (JB, PB); one bird was noted flying over Hebron, Boone County on May 5 (KCam, JCam) ; and one or two birds were present at MCFH from April 6- May 4. Mississippi Kites were first seen at BWMA, Axe Lake, Ballard Coun¬ ty, and Chalk Bluff on May 6 (BPB, DP) and again at BWMA on May 7 (no number given — BPB, DP, J. T. Erwin). Two Bald Eagle nests in Land Between the Lakes, and one at BWMA contained young in late May (Steve Bloemer with TVA and D. Yancy with KDFWR, respectively, fide BPB) ; an adult was observed as it brought food to the BWMA nest on May 6, another adult at Mitchell Lake, and an immature perched along the Ohio River, all at BWMA (BPB, DP). In addition a pair was seen at Lake #9, Fulton County on May 6 (BPB, DP). Northern Harriers were not as numerous this year as last; a total of 15 was counted in Ohio County near the Homestead Mine area on March 17 (KC), with four noted in another sec¬ tion of Ohio County on April 2 (KC). One to two birds were also noted in Breckinridge and Muhlenberg counties during early April (KC), and one observed near Dozier Lake, Hopkins County on March 5 (JH). Only small numbers of Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks were reported. Three Rough-legged Hawks were still in southern Ohio County on March 17 (KC), 56 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 and one was in the same area as late as April 1 (KC). An immature and one sub-adult Golden Eagle were seen at Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County on March 3 (BPB, LR, DE, JB, PB) ; at least one was in the area as of April (no date — D. Brumley fide BPB). A total of 12 American Kestrels was found within a 17-mile drive of Falls of Rough, Grayson County (KC). An immature Merlin was turned in to the Louisville Zoo for rehabilitation in mid-March. An unaged Peregrine Falcon was noted flying near Double Arch, Powell County on May 13 (BPB) and another was reported in down¬ town Louisville in mid-May (C. Lindsay fide BPB). Wild Turkey through Cranes — A Wild Turkey was seen at Mammoth Cave National Park on April 8 and two others on April 16 (JB, PB). Bobwhites were thought to have increased in Grayson County this spring (KC). There were three reports of a rare transient, the Virginia Rail: one flushed at SWMA on April 29 (BPB, DE), another at Mitchell Lake, BWMA on May 7 (BPB, DP, J. T. Erwin), and one in a small marsh in the Homestead Mine area, Ohio County on May 8 (KC). Twelve to 15 Soras were present at SWMA on April 21 (BPB, LR) and at least six there on April 29 (BPB, DE) ; one heard on the Peabody Homestead Sur¬ face Mine on April 28 (BPB, DE, KCam); and two in marshy area in Florence, Boone County on May 5 (JCam, KCam). Two Common Moorhens were observed at a marsh near Cool Springs-Wysox Lake on May 8 (KC), and at least one bird on marshy pond on Peabody Homestead Surface Mine (BPB, M. Bierly), both sightings in southern Ohio County. The American Coot migration was fairly good with 104 birds at Lake Pewee on March 5 (JH) and about 200 at McElroy Lake on March 3-18 (BPB); peaked at Lake Pewee on March 12 with 141 birds (JH) and at McElroy on March 24 with 500 birds (BPB); about 100 were still at SWMA on April 21 (BPB). There were no reports for the month of May. Sandhill Cranes were moving north in Kentucky the first week of March: a flock of 57 noted at McElroy Lake on March 3 (BPB) ; heard in MCNP on March 4 (JB, PB) ; a good movement on March 4 when flocks of 22, 30 + , 45+ and 50 passed over eastern Grayson County (BPB, DE). The flock of 150 Sandhill Cranes on the ground at Cecilia, Hardin County in late February remained until early March (BPB) ; also, a flock of 17 birds was seen at the upper end of Big Beech Creek, Taylorsville Lake, Spencer County on March 19 (Kerry Prather). Shorebirds — “Very little shorebird migration evident in Boone County, with little good habitat available during peak periods” (LMc). Little habi¬ tat available in the Louisville area this year. The Falls of the Ohio rockbed was covered with water for much of the period. Best localities appeared to be at the transient lakes and western Kentucky. A Lesser Golden-Plover arrived early — March 3 representing an early state date - — • at McElroy Lake (BPB) where they peaked on March 31 with 60-75 birds (BPB) ; 30 near Reelfoot NWR and 100-150 in lower Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County on April 3, smaller numbers scattered elsewhere. Semipalmated Plovers were reported from four locations with 20-25 as the highest count on May 6 at Lake #9, Fulton County (BPB, DP); birds were present at MCFH from May 20-30, with a peak of 28 on May 25 (FB). Only two to three Greater Yellowlegs were present at McElroy Lake in March, but 15 to 20 were at Chaney Lake on April 22 (BPB) ; 30+ in or near Reelfoot NWR on April 3 (BPB) ; about 20 in Ohio River bottoms near Bayou, Livingston County on April 8 (BPB) ; 35-50 on SWMA on April 21 and 10 still there on April 29 (BPB) ; and up to six at MCFH from April 13-May 25 (FB). 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 57 Lesser Yellowlegs arrived later than usual with four present at MeElroy Lake on March 3 but 12-15 there by March 31 (BPB); 50+ in or near Reelfoot NWR on April 3 (BPB) ; five in a field near Honker Lake on April 13-15 (JB, PB) ; up to nine at MCFH from May 18-25 (FB) ; 35-50 on SWMA on April 21; and about 35 at Chaney Lake (BPB). Solitary Sandpipers peaked at 12+ at Chaney Lake on April 22 (BPB); three birds were at a marsh in southern Ohio County on May 8 (KC) ; and up to three at MCFH on May 18 and at RCSS from May 6-23 (FB). The only Willets reported were the two near the dam of Rough River Lake, Grayson County on April 27 (LMc). Spotted Sandpipers were first discovered on April 19 along the Green River, Mammoth Cave National Park, where the species was well distributed on gravel bars and exposed shorelines (BPB, R. Ci- cerello) and one was noted at Lake Pewee on April 23 (JH) ; these dates are much later than usual. Numbers peaked at MCFH with 13 on May 18 (FB). There were 100+ Semipalmated Sandpipers on the PHSM on May 20 (BPB, M. Bierly et al.) ; at MCFH, birds were present from May 4-30, with a peak of about 150 on May 20 (FB). Western Sandpipers were pres¬ ent at MCFH from May 4-30, with a peak of 15 on May 20 (FB). Least Sandpipers were reported in Warren (BPB) and Rowan (FB) counties, with the earliest bird at MeElroy Lake on March 17 (BPB). Interesting records of the White-rumped Sandpiper included several in a flooded field north of Flaherty, Meade County in mid-May (RH, fide BPB) and one there on May 19 (BPB, RH) ; one present on PHSM in southern Ohio County on May 20 (BPB, M. Bierly et al.) ; and 4-6 birds at MCFH on May 28-30 (FB). There was a good flight of Pectorals at MeElroy; they arrived on March 3 (7 birds), numbers increased with 100-150 on March 24 and a peak of 250-300 there on March 30 (BPB). Also, 20 in a field near Honker Lake on April 13-15 (JB, PB); 30 at Chaney on April 22 (BPB); six to eight at Mayfair Basins on May 13 (S, FS). Ten Baird’s Sandpipers were present at MCFH on May 20, with lesser numbers until May 30 (FB). Dunlin were scarce: one bird at MeElroy on March 31 (BPB), two at Chaney Lake on April 22 (BPB, DE), and two flocks of birds in breeding plumage at MCFH (seven on May 28, and 11 on May 30 — FB). A Short-billed Dowitcher was heard and seen well at SWMA on April 29 (BPB, DE). Common Snipes were present from March 10 to May 7 and reported from four counties: Fulton, Livingston, Oldham and Warren counties, with the greatest number — 35 — along the Ohio River near Bayou, Livingston County on April 8 (BPB). These records included a total of 78 birds (BPB, DP, J. T. Erwin, S, FS, DCC). Six American Woodcocks were heard calling and were seen displaying at Joe Creason Park, on March 5 (JB, PB); courtship flights noted in Crittenden, Grant County on March 18 (JCam, KCam) ; one bird first appeared on March 9, with two adults and two juveniles present on May 15 (FB) ; about four heard at BPS the first week of March (KC) ; and one heard “peenting” over a field in Leitchfield, Grayson County on the late date of May 8 (KC). Three Wilson’s Phalaropes were present at MCFH on May 18 (FB). Gulls — Two Laughing Gulls (adults in breeding plumage) were seen on Kentucky Lake at the Kentucky Dam Village Marina on May 6 (BPB, DP). A few Franklin Gulls were present: an adult with Bonaparte’s Gulls was seen on April 8 at Calvert City (BPB) ; two at Kentucky Dam on April 13-15 (JB, PB) ; single adult on an island in Lake Barkley near Boyd’s Landing on May 1 (BPB); an adult in breeding plumage at MCFH on May 4 (FB) ; and another on Kentucky Lake above the dam on May 6 and 8 (BPB, DP). The Bonaparte’s Gull migration was quite 58 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 good, particularly in early April, and reported from at least six widely ; separated localities from March 18-May 9 (JCam, KCam, BPB, LMc, LR) ; up to 41 were reported at MCFH from March 18-May 4 (FB). Maxima numbers were about 1000 on the Tennessee River from below Kentucky I Dam to below Calvert City and 300-500 on Lake Barkley above the dam, smaller numbers elsewhere. Ring-billed Gulls were found at six locations ! in low numbers except at Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley; it was un¬ usual to see a total of 86 at the Mayfair Basins, Louisville on March 27 (LR) ; up to 30 were reported at MCFH and CRL from March 2-May 4 (FB). A third-winter Herring Gull was present at MCFH on March 23 ! (FB). The second- to third-year Lesser Black-backed Gull observed during the winter (or another individual) was present on Kentucky Lake above the dam on April 1 and observed again on Lake Barkley on April 7 (BPB). I One of the first-year Great Black-backed Gulls was seen in the vicinity of Kentucky Dam on April 1, 7 and May 1 and again on Lake Barkley above the dam on May 8-9 (good photo on May 1 — BPB). Terns — A few Caspian Terns were reported from April 1-first week of May, with the first (1 bird) noted on Lake Barkley on April 1 (BPB) ; two below McAlpine Dam, Louisville on April 11 (LR); one on a slough in farmland of western Henderson County on April 21 (BPB); and up to ' five on MCFH from April 13-May 4 (FB). Small numbers (one to five) I of Forster’s Terns were recorded April 1 to first week of May at McAlpine 1 Dam (LR), scattered places on the west Kentucky lakes (BPB), and Cool Springs-Wysox Lake (BPB, DE, KCam); up to five were present at MCFH from April 13-May 4 (FB) ; and a group of seven Forster’s Terns flying down the Ohio River at Westport, Oldham County on May 12 was followed a few minutes later by five Black Terns (BM, MM, S. Brown, L. McGrath). Two Black Terns were noted at MCFH on May 18 (FB). Cuckoo through Woodpeckers — There were more reports of Black¬ billed Cuckoos than normal with the first heard at BPS on April 28 (KC), one at Madisonville, Hopkins County on April 29 (JH), and singles in Graves and Calloway counties on May 3 and 7, respectively (BPB, with DP and J. T. Erwin on the latter date). Also, two birds were heard and seen on the SWMA sloughs on April 29 (BPB, DE); first noted at Glasgow, Barren County on May 18 (RS)and on PHSM on May 20 (BPB, M. Bierly et al.). Two Chuck-wills-widows were heard at BPS on April 14 and still present throughout May (KC); two at Madisonville on April 23 (JH). Only two reports of the Whip-poor-will: first heard at Hanson, Hopkins County on April 16 (B. West fide JH) and four at BPS on May 1-30 (KC). Common Nighthawks appeared to be late in arriving and few in number. Chimney Swifts were first reported from Kentucky Dam (1 bird) on April 13-15 (JB, PB ) ; numerous and flying low over Beargrass Creek, Seneca Park, Louisville on May 6 (S, FS). A single male Ruby-throated Hum¬ mingbird was the first arrival at BPS on April 8, but 12 were there by April 30 (KC). The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was last observed at BPS on April 26 (KC) ; also observed at Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve, Jefferson County on April 29 (JB, PB). Young Red-cockaded Woodpeckers were calling from the nest east of Cumberland Falls, Whitley County on May 28 (BPB, LR, C. Rebar); both adults were observed foraging nearby. According to Steve Phillips of the U.S. Forest Service, four nests were active in late May. Flycatchers through Nuthatches — Olive-sided Flycatchers appeared to 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 59 be late in arriving: one at MCFH on May 4 (FB), two separate birds on BWMA on May 6 (DP, BPB), and one at Joe Creason Park on May 14 (MS). At least two Alder Flycatchers were seen and heard on PHSM on May 20 (BPB, M. Bierly et al.). Several Willow Flycatchers were also observed at the same location and same date (same group as above). The Willow Flycatcher was also present in numbers near Petersburg, Boone County on May 28 (LMc), one at Elk Creek bridge, Hopkins County on May 18 and 30 (JH), and 2-3 at MCFH from May 4-25 (FB). Eastern Phoebes were first recorded at Green River Lake, Taylor County on March 4 (LR). There were few reports of the Great Crested Flycatcher with the first being at Brigadoon, Barren County on April 22 (RS), and one the following day in Hopkins County (JH). We believe the bird has been rather scarce this spring, although no one has made any such comments. Purple Martins appeared to be late in arriving and fewer were observed than usual; the species was still migrating on May 5 when small groups of four or five were seen along Old Brownsboro Road, northeast Jefferson County totaling at least 25+ birds, but they were gone the following day (S, FS). Fifteen males reached a martin complex in Leitchfield, Grayson County on April 1 (A. Wilson, KC). A male Tree Swallow was quite early at Crittenden, Grant County on March 10 (KCam, JCam) ; up to 350 birds were present at MCFH on April 6 (FB). One Bank Swallow was early at Lake Barkley on April 7 (BPB). Cliff Swallows were numerous on the Rough River on the Grayson/Breckinridge county line on May 4 (KC). Barn Swallows do not seem to be as numerous this spring. A good number — 15-20 — of Fish Crows was seen along Obion Creek at Ky. 123 in Hick¬ man County on April 2 (BPB, Bill Hendricks) ; about six there, one bird at Three Ponds, Hickman County, and a pair at Bayou de Chien at Ky. 239 along the Fulton-Hickman County line, all on April 3 (BPB). A Com¬ mon Raven was calling near the summit of Big Black Mountain, Harlan County on May 27 (BBC). A single Red-breasted Nuthatch was observed at MCNP (JB, PB) and in east Louisville (DN) on April 21 and 25, respectively. Greater numbers of Brown Creepers were noted at CRL and RCSS in winter 1990 than in 1989 (FB), with up to five on several occa¬ sions from March 15-30 (FB). Wrens through Shrikes — House Wrens arrived on time and first recorded at Mayfair Basins, Louisville on April 13 (LR), and only one Bewick’s Wren was reported at Grand Rivers, Livingston County on May 1 (BPB). Single Winter Wrens were present at Madisonville, Hopkins County on April 9 (JH) and at MCNP on April 18 (BPB). A few Sedge Wrens were seen in May: one in Northern LBL on May 1 (BPB), one heard at Reelfoot NWR on May 3 (BPB), and a pair observed in rural Meade County north of Flaherty on May 19 (R. Healy, BPB). A single Marsh Wren was seen at SWMA on April 21 and 29 (BPB). Greater numbers of Golden-crowned Kinglets were recorded in eastern Kentucky this winter than in 1989, with a peak of ten on March 16 at High Bank Picnic Area, CRL (FB). Ruby-crowned Kinglets were reported from seven locations: BPS (KC), Hopkins County (JH), MCNP (JB, PB), Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve (JB, PB), Natural Bridge State Park, Powell County (JB, PB), southwest Jefferson County (DS), and Rough River State Park, Grayson County (KOS). Two Blue-gray Gnatcatchers were seen on Mayfair Avenue, northern Jefferson County on March 20, and this tied our earliest record for the species (LR) ; two also observed at BPS on March 30 (KC) ; all other records in April. Four Veeries were seen at the Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve on May 5 (LMc). Thrushes 60 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 were not present in large numbers. The few Hermit Thrushes reported 1 were present from April 8 to 28. The Wood Thrush continues to be scarce in some areas particularly Louisville (S) and at surrounding areas of BPS (KC). Arrival dates were later than usual, with the first reported; being on April 13-15 at LBL (JB, PB) and then Madisonville on April 21 (JH). The Gray Catbird has been present in lower numbers in the Louisville I area for some time and is now in lower numbers in a section of Grayson I County (KC). The same is true for the Brown Thrasher in sections of; Louisville (S), but thought to be increasing in numbers around the Rough River area (KC). There was a fair migration of Water Pipits with a peak; of 75-100 at McElroy Lake on March 24 (BPB); two birds at Camp Ernst,! Boone County on March 24; and four at Rough River airstrip, Grayson! County on April 28 (LMc). There was a good movement of Cedar Wax- wings in late March and in April: a flock of 146+ was found near Browns-' boro, Oldham County on March 25 (S, FS) ; a large flock in a yard in the. Highlands, Louisville (MSu) on April 14, and another flock of 20 in the Valley Station area on April 19 (DS) ; 30 or more at BPS (KC) ; and small numbers still present in late April at Madisonville (JH) and at Beargrass Nature Preserve on April 29 (JB, PB). There were several; good sightings of the Loggerhead Shrike in Scott, Harrison and Franklin I counties, central Kentucky (FK); other records were in Breckinridge and Grayson counties (KC). Vireos through Warblers - — Two territorial male Bell’s Vireos were seen on May 20 on the PHSM where the birds nested last season (BPB. M. Bierly et al.) ; also a singing male was found in a new location north of the above birds (same date and observers as above). Two Philadelphia Vireos were reported on May 15-16 in east Louisville (DN). Warbler mi¬ gration seemed to lack numbers of the various species, and there were no early dates with the exception of one species, the Northern Parula. One observer said the “Warbler migration was somewhat concentrated, with the best numbers seen on May 5”; another thought the best migration days were May 4 and 12. Blue-winged Warblers were first recorded in Barren1 County on April 20 (RS) and Golden-winged on April 27 at Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve (JB, PB). Three males of the latter species were/ seen at once on May 5 in LBL and eight in one day on May 7 (BPB, and! with DP and J. T. Erwin on the latter date) ; and one in Caperton Swamp Louisville on May 20 (BM). The Orange-crowned Warbler, usually rare in spring, was seen on three occasions: one near Kentucky Lake-Scenic Drive on April 13-15, JB, PB ) ; one at Bernheim Forest on April 22 (BBC! BPB); and one at Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve, Louisville on April 25 (BM). The Northern Parula was “everywhere” near Honker and Hema¬ tite Lake in LBL on April 13-15 (JB, PB) ; three to four at MCNP or April 21-22 (JB, PB) ; and one was present in northeast Louisville on March 28, establishing an early state date (DN). A Yellow Warbler was! noted in northeast Louisville as early as April 10 (DN). Yellow- rumpecj Warblers began moving in from the south on March 13 at RCSS (FB) anc- March 16 at BPS where there were some 20 birds by April 15 (KC) ; thej! were “everywhere” at Beargrass Nature Preserve, Louisville on April 21 (JB, PB) and last observed at Madisonville on May 7 (JH) where or; some days in April they were very common. Pine Warblers were first notec, at BPS (KC) and at a pine plantation in Madisonville on March 11 (JH) six were seen in pine trees at Honker Lake on April 13-15 (JB, PB) The Blaekpoll Warbler sightings at Joe Creason Park and Beargrass Creel Nature Preserve on May 13 were “numerous” (BBC), but the species waij 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 61 only recorded on May 14 in the Madisonville area (JH). Black-and-white Warblers (one to four) were seen in MCNP from April 8-22 (JB, PB) ; other sightings occurred during late April at BPS (KC), Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve and Natural Bridge State Park (JB, PB). Single Swain- son’s Warblers were heard singing at two locations in eastern Calloway County on May 7 (BPB, DP, J. T. Erwin), and at least two were seen at Bad Branch State Nature Preserve, Letcher County on May 27 (BBC). Many species of warblers arrived on April 21 and 22 ahead of warm fronts, including the Ovenbird and Worm-eating Warblers (RS). There were only two reports for the Northern Waterthrush: Beargrass Creek Nature Pre¬ serve on April 29 (JB, PB) and in Hopkins County on May 7 (JH), no number given in either case. Louisiana Waterthrushes were fairly wide¬ spread, but numbers were small with the earliest arrival on April 2 along overflow of Cool Springs- Wysox Lake (A. Wilson fide KC) ; one was noted at MCFH on April 6 (FB). Kentucky Warblers arrived at Briga- doon on April 22 (RS). A Mourning Warbler was seen earlier than usual on May 3 at New Concord, Calloway County (BPB). Common Yellow- throats were late in arriving and were first observed in Barren County on April 20 (RS) and in Hopkins County on April 23 (JH) ; between 5 and 11 individuals daily were recorded at RCSS from May 6-25 (FB). There were only two reports of the Wilson’s Warbler: first observed in LBL on May 5 (BPB, C. Rebar) and one on the University of Louisville Campus on May 18 (BM). Tanagers through Sparrows — There was nothing impressive about the tanager migration, with several sightings around April 21-28, but no large numbers, etc. There was a good migration of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks in northern Kentucky this spring with many birds at feeding stations in early May (LMc). There was a fairly early record of a bird at a feeder in Middletown, Jefferson County on March 24 (R. Klapheke fide BPB), others sighted on April 15 at BPS (KC), MNCP on April 21 (JB, PB), Falls of Rough on April 28 (KOS), Madisonville on three dates from April 24 to May 13 (JH), many in the Louisville area, and Natural Bridge State Park on April 28 (JB, PB). Blue Grosbeaks were reported from Barren, Hopkins and Grayson counties (RS, JH, KOS, KC). There were no large numbers of Indigo Buntings reported other than the 15 sighted on May 30 in Madisonville (JH). A flock of 15 Tree Sparrows was present in western Henderson County on March 11 (BPB); and one lingered at Louisville until May 5 (BBC). A Vesper Sparrow was seen at McElroy Lake on March 24 and a flock of eight at Chaney Lake with several smaller groups in Warren and Simpson counties on March 31 (BPB) ; also observed in lower Hickman Bottoms of Fulton County on April 3 (BPB) ; and three birds at East Bend and two at Camp Ernst, Boone County on April 7 (LMc). A Lark Sparrow was seen in eastern Calloway County on May 4 and 7 (BPB, with DP and J. T. Erwin on latter date). Henslow’s Sparrows were singing at two locations in Breckinridge County on April 29 and May 15 (BPB) ; also present at the 1989 nesting area on the PKSM on May 20 (BPB, M. Bierly et ah). Interesting, too, were the three Henslow’s ob¬ served on the Hopewell Church Road on May 4 (KC) and one bird on Hwy. #108 E. on April 28 (DC fide KC). At least 30 to 40 Grasshopper- Sparrows were counted in southern Ohio County (no date given but prob¬ ably in May — HC fide KC). Twelve Song Sparrows were counted at a few places in Hopkins County on May 30 (JH). Swamp Sparrows were present at RCSS from March 9-May 15, with a peak of 52 on March 13 (FB). There was a fair movement of White-throated Sparrows on April 62 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 25 when the birds were reported as “everywhere” in Joe Creason Park and Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve (JB, PB). The species was last recorded at Madisonville on May 20 (JH). Dark-eyed Juncos were last reported in Rowan County on April 20 (FB). Bobolinks through Finches — There was a good movement of Bobolinks during early May with up to 125 in eastern Calloway County on May 3 (BPB) ; a flock of 141 west of Hebron, Boone County on May 6 (Carmen Schulte fide LMc); and a male, near Caneyville, Grayson County, as late as May 31 (HC fide KC). A flock of 1000 Red-winged Blackbirds with a few Brown-headed Cowbirds was seen on Covered Bridge Road, Oldham County on March 11 (S, FS). Fifty to 100 Rusty Blackbirds was the peak count in the vicinity of McElroy Lake on March 10 (BPB); numbers still present on March 15 (DCC). Brewer’s Blackbirds peaked at 45-50 in the vicinity of McElroy Lake on March 24 (BPB), but a more impressive group j of 75 and probably 100 were seen in Hickman County at Hailwell on April 3 (BPB, Bill Hendricks). Another noteworthy record was that of a female Yellow-headed Blackbird, just south of Bowling Green, Warren County on March 10 (BPB, R. Cicerello, Bob English, Camille Crenshaw). Both Orchard and Northern Orioles do not seem as numerous as usual. Purple ! Finches were not as numerous this spring; the peak count was only 20 at BPS on March 30 (KC); 14 birds were seen in Eva Bandman Park, Louisville on April 18 (LR) ; and smaller numbers at the woods at Hematite Lake in LBL (JB, PB), Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve (JB, PB), and two Louisville yards (DS, JB). Pine Siskins lingered throughout the winter in some areas, but populations increased in April when 40-50 were present at Valley Station feeders on April 19 (DS); 50 or more at BPS on April 24-30 (KC) ; 20-30 at Woodland Nature Center in LBL on May 4 (BPB) ; and last observed at BPS on May 15 (KC). The surprise at a Surrey Hills feeder was an adult Pine Siskin feeding a full grown fledgling on May 29-30 (BPB). Contributors — Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Fred Busroe (FB), Joe Caminiti (JCam), K. Caminiti (KCam), D. C. Chaffin (DCC), Herbert Clay, Jr. (HC), Kathryn Clay (KC), Donna Coates (DC), Diane Ebel (DE), James W. Hancock (JH), Richard Healy (RH), Frank Krull, Jr. (FK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Brainard Palmer-Ball (BPB), Lene Rauth (LR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Michael Stinson (MS), Margaret Sullivan (MSu), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Whalen (CW). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241, and P. O. Box 23447, Anchorage 40223. 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 63 KENTUCKY BALD EAGLE COUNT FOR 1990 James Durell, David Yancy Target dates for the 1990 eagle census were January 11 or 12, within a time frame of January 4-18. Weather was unusually mild, with little or no ice. The state was thoroughly censused, there was severe weather up north, and a new record population (322 eagles) was reported. Immature Bald Eagles increased from 75 to 99 but the percentage decreased from 36% to 33%. Mature birds increased from 129 to 195. Eagles on the north bank of the Ohio and west bank of the Mississippi were not counted. Barlow Bottoms near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, was partially censused, but had a low report. Mayfield and Obion Creek bottoms were not censused. The Ballard Waterfowl Area gained 34 eagles, Land Between the Lakes gained 58 and Lake Cumberland gained 23. The Mississippi River lost 8, Dale Hollow lost 18 and Cave Run Lake lost 7. Table I summarizes the 1990 census, with some earlier high records. Eagles within 15 miles of similar birds previously reported were not added to the totals. TABLE I — Kentucky Bald Eagle Census, January 4-18, 1990, with some earlier high counts. Earlier 1990 records ROUTE Ad. Imm. Total High Year Land Between the Lakes . . 65 47 112 67 1987 Blood River — S. Calloway . . 1 1 2 Mississippi River . 40 3 43 72 1984 Ohio R„ Wickliffe-Carrsville . ... . 30 17 49* 89 1986 Ohio R„ Carrsville-Owensboro . 9 3 13t 13 1989 Ohio R., Meade Co., Louisville . 2 2 5 1986 Ohio R., Louisville-Markland Dam .... 1 1987 Ohio River, Boone Co. to Boyd 2 2 Kentucky R., north 1 i Bernheim Forest . 3 3 1 1989 Ohio Co., near Green River . i 1 Rough River Lake 0 Nolin R. Lake . 2 1 3 1 1989 Barren R. Lake . 1 1 2 3 1989 Green R. Lake . 4 2 6 12 1986 Dale Hollow, Kentucky portion . . 1 1 6 20t 38 1989 Lake Cumberland . 18 8 26 14? 1983 Cumberland R., dam to state line .... 4 4 8 1986 Cave Run Lake . 2 1 3 10 1989 Grayson Lake . i 1 1 1989 Laurel Lake . . i 5 6 9 1985 Martin’s Fork . i 1 3 1988 Dewey Lake It Total Bald Eagles . 195 99 301 Golden Eagles . 7 Unidentified eagles, Ballard Co. WA 14 * Ballard Co. Wildlife Area reported 25 adult and 17 juvenile Bald Eagles and 14 unidentified eagles. There were also 2 Bald Eagles, age unknown, on the Ohio, t Includes Bald Eagles, age unknown. 7 Golden Eagles: 1 immature on Mississippi, 4 adults Ballard Co. WA, 1 adult above Cincinnati, 1 adult Green River Lake. 64 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Eighty-four observers in 39 parties, reported 394 other raptors. Totals for the four preceding years are in parenthesis: Black Vulture 69 (23) ; Turkey Vulture 18 (10); Osprey 1; Northern Harrier 12 (19); Sharp- shinned Hawk 4 (7); Coopers Hawk 4 (5); Goshawk 1 (Yellowbank) ; Red-shouldered Hawk 4 (12) ; Red-tailed Hawk 112 (306) ; Rough-legged Hawk 2 (10) ; American Kestrel 141 (369) ; Merlin 1 (upper Ohio) ; Pere¬ grine Falcon 3 (not verified by a biologist) ; unknown hawks 22; Common Barn Owl 0 (1) . Assistance of 185 participants in 86 teams is gratefully acknowledged. They represented the Kentucky Ornithological Society, federal and state Fish and Wildlife agencies, TVA, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Kentucky Dept, of Parks, Audubon Society, Bernheim Forest, Owensboro Area Museum and Indiana Dept, of Natural Resources. — Kentucky Ornithological Society, 308 Meadow Lane, Frankfort. — Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Frankfort 40601. KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP ROLL Individual Memberships: Abell, Jr., Mrs. Irwin, Mockingbird Valley Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Adams, Dorothey E., 3810 Klondike Ln., Louisville, KY 40218 Adams, Dr. Garrett, 2975 Lexington Rd., Louisville, KY 40206 Adler, Mr. & Mrs. Greg, 221 Wellsley Way, Paducah, KY 42003 Ahrens, Dr. Edward, 21 Autumn Hill Ct., Prospect, KY 40059 Alcock, W. C., 518 Dogwood Dr., Danville, KY 40422 Andres, Brad, 346 W. 2nd Ave., Columbus, OH 43201 Andrews, Lynda J., 304 Horseshoe Dr., Somerset, KY 42501-9258 Aylward, Janet, 1328 Lynmar Dr., #2, Louisville, KY 40222 Bagian, Mr. & Mrs. Edward B., 302 Santee Path, Louisville, KY 40207 Ball, Mr. & Mrs. Steve, 108 Elm St., Henderson, KY 42420 Barbour, Dr. Roger W., 4880 Tates Creek Pike, Lexington, KY 40515 Barr, Mr. Mrs. Charles C., 463 Swing Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 Bauer, Mr. & Mrs. Williams H., 119 N. Birchwood Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 Beck, Dorothy, 532 S. Ft. Thomas Ave., Ft. Thomas, KY 41075 Bell, Frances, 929 Walnut Park Dr., Owensboro, KY 42301 Bell, Jane & Pat, 306 Fairlawn Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Bell, John D., 169 Smith-Ballard Apt. A, Richmond, KY 40475 Berla, Patricia, 3106 Lime Kiln Ln., Louisville, KY 40222 Bitely, Phillip & Joan, 13800 Fairway Ln., Goshen, KY 40026 Black, Mrs. Lois, 1307 Nassau Ave., Owensboro, KY 42301 Blackwell, J. Mark, 2825 Lexington Rd., Box 1025, Louisville, KY 40280-1025 Blahnik, Mr. & Mrs. Roland, 5806 Bonfire Dr., Louisville, KY 40207-2216 Blakemore, Jr., Neville, 424 Mayfair Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 Block, Mr. & Mrs. Austin, 7410 Moredale Rd., Louisville, KY 40222 Boggs, Earl, 1645 Logana Rd., Nicholasville, KY 40356 Boggs, Gary, 568 Hammett Hill Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Boone, Bette, 910 Ann Mark Ct., Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Borders, Melanie, 1121 Ellison Ave., Louisville, KY 40204 Boswell, Bess, 4401 Mt. Vernon Rd., Louisville, KY 40220 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 65 Bowman, Karen, 2910 Brinkley Way, #1, Louisville, KY 40218 Bowmer, Kate, 1711 Richmond Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Bowne, Mr. & Mrs. Edward, 1321 Woodmere Ln., Owensboro, KY 42301 Boyd, Paul & Elizabeth, 8501 Shelbyville Rd., Louisville, KY 40222 Brandon, Elizabeth, 2205 Grandview Dr., Floyds Knobs, IN 47119 Bray, Mr. & Mrs. James, 5350 Rollingwood Trail, Louisville, KY 40214 Brendel, Col. Jo, 726 Fairhill Dr., Louisville, KY 40207 Brines, Wally, RR #6, Box 214, Murray, KY 42071 Brown, Mike, 6148 Scott Ct., Owensboro, KY 42303-9736 Brown, Mrs. Randolph, 507 Country Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 Brown, J. Jones, Robert, 47 Sterling Rd., Louisville, KY 40220 Brown, William H., 527 V2 Main St., Shelbyville, KY 40065 Brue, Joseph & Sandy, 825 Fountain Ave., Louisville, KY 40222 Bryant, Mrs. Glen W., 527 Ridgewood Rd., Louisville ,KY 40207 Bullock, Anderson & Dorothy, RR #2, Box 2145, Bates City, MO 64011-9802 Burdine, Lola, 1840 Gresham Rd., Louisville, KY 40205 Burns, Mike, 4189 Heartwood Rd., Lexington, KY 40515 Burns Mr. & Mrs. G. L., 5742 Athens-Walnut Hill Rd., Lexington, KY 40515 Burns, Roland Louis, 939 Bolts Fork, Rush, KY 41168 Busroe, Mr. & Mrs. Fred, 80 Green Valley Acres, Morehead, KY 40351 Caddell, Mrs. Damon, 203 Cambridge Dr., Paducah, KY 42001 Cade, Carolyn, 8215 Seaforth Dr., Louisville, KY 40258 Cain, Mrs. Altha N., 1117 Hilliard Ave., Louisville, KY 40204 Callahan, Mr. John, 5712 Renada Dr., Crestwood, KY 40014 Caminiti, Joe & Kathy, RR #2, Box 44D Hopewell Rd., Crittenden, KY 41030 Carroll, Elaine, 2314 Rice Pike, Union, KY 41091 Caruso, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph T., 1203 Ekin Ave., New Albany, IN 47150 Cary, Mr. & Mrs. Arthur, 4001 Napanee Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Cassell, Richard, 4003 Poplar Level Rd., Louisville, KY 40213 Chaffin, Dr. David, 1606 Everhart Dr., N.W., Cleveland, TN 37311-1523 Chambers, Harriet, P. O. Box 47, Hazel, KY 42049 Cheek, II, John A., Box 421, 116 Caroline Blvd., Penny Farms, FL 32079 Chenault, William T., 4003 Winchester Rd., Mt. Sterling, KY 40353 Clapp, Roger B., Museum Specialist, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC 20560 Clay, Dr. & Mrs. Herbert, 434 Mallard Creek Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Coates, Mr. & Mrs. Roger, Rt. #1, Box 124, Cox’s Creek, KY 40013 Colburn, Mrs. Ralph, 614 Wallace Ave., Louisville, KY 40207 Coleman, Mrs. Caroline H., 1701 N/W 24th St., Gainesville, FL 32605 Coleman, Roger & Roberta, RR #3, Box 88, Campton Rd., Floyds Knobs, IN 47119-9402 Conner, Glenn, 9216 Holland Rd., Scottsville, KY 42164 Conrad, Mr. & Mrs. E. J., RR #2, Box 31, Gilbertsville, KY 42044 Coombs, Shirley, 4605 Ky. 81, Owensboro, KY 42301 Cooper, Ms. Mildred, 102 Marshall Dr., Apt. #2, Louisville, KY 40207 Cornett, Manton R., 482 Denver Ln., Lexington, KY 40503 Corya, Betty, 9112 Wilson Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46278 Cruse, Mr. & Mrs. Randall, 270 Forest Hill, Hodgenville, KY 42748 Curry, Lloyd, P. O. Box 59, Greensburg, KY 42743 Cypert, Mrs. Eugene, P. O. Box 1344, Waycross, GA 31502 Cypert, Mr. Eugene, P. O. Box 1344, Waycross, GA 31502 Dahl, Wayne, 7706 Dominique Dr., Louisville, KY 40228 Danak, Dorothy L., 2015 Grasmere, Louisville, KY 40205 66 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Davis, Mrs. Lawrence, 28 Pawnee Terrace, Louisville, KY 40207 Davis, Dr. Wayne H., 130 Jesselin Dr., Lexington, KY 40503 Davis, Mr. & Mrs. David, 10117 Closterwood Dr., Louisville, KY 40229 De St. Croix, Brian C., Rosewood Hill Farm, RR 3, Box 61-A, Elizabeth, IN 47117 Doolittle, Mrs. William B., 2215 Village Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Dubke, Kenneth H., 8139 Roy Ln., Ooltewah, TN 37363 Duffy, Robert J., 1352 S. 6th St., Louisville, KY 40208 Durell, James, 308 Meadow Ln., Frankfort, KY 40601 Eaden, Mrs. Tony, 12784 U.S. 231, Utica, KY 42376 Ebel, Diane, 222 Bonner Ave., Louisville, KY 40207 Eff, Jane, 125 Pennsylvania Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 Eklund, Mr. & Mrs. Neil, 130 Winterhawk Ln., Danville, KY 40422 Elam, Mr. & Mrs. Gary, 515 Main St., West Liberty, KY 41472 Elliott, Charles, Dept, of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475 Elliott, George, c/o Helmwood Medical Ctr. Pharmacy, N. 31 W, Elizabeth¬ town, KY 42701 Ellison, Candy Curlin/Kyle, 185 North Bellaire, Louisville, KY 40206 Elmore, Mr. & Mrs. Jackie B., 1940 Heaton-Ford Rd., Science Hill, KY 42553 Elred, Mr. & Mrs. Marshal P., 515 Club Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 Embry, Mr. & Mrs. Richard, RR #4, Box 193 A, Shelbyville, KY 40065 Erwin, Joe Tom, H C Box 152-5, New Concord, KY 42076 Eubank, Mr. & Mrs. Harold, 615 Roseview Terrace, New Albany, IN 47150 Ewing, Mr. Niels O., 840 River Dell Ct., Louisville, KY 40206 Ferrell, Dr. Blaine R., Biology Dept., Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY 42101 Figg, Steven Arthur, 1040 Everett Ave., #3, Louisville, KY 40204 Finley, John & Linda Stahl, 1512 Schuff Ln., Louisville, KY 40205 Finucane, Thomas W., 1434 Watauga St., Kingsport, TN 37664 Fisher, Mrs. Stanley, 102 Kristi Ln., Bolivar, TN 38008 Fisher, W. B., 6705 Bedford Ln., Louisville, KY 40222 Flynn, Mr. & Mrs. Michael B., 218 Shady Ln., Lexington, KY 40503 Ford, Dr. & Mrs. Jerald M., 800 Rogers Ct., Ashland, KY 41101 Ford, James B., Box 808, Warsaw, KY 41095 Ford, Joseph M., 1917 Merriewood Dr., Owensboro, KY 42301-4915 Foster, Tobin, 210 S. Alta Ave., Danville, KY 40422 Franck, Mildred, 4520 Cordova Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Frazer, Chastain, Box 246, Marion, KY 42064 Freeman, Mr. & Mrs. Donovan, P. O. Box 861, Bowling Green, KY 42102 Fulkerson, Mrs. Samuel C., 1021 Watterson Trail, Louisville, KY 40299 Garst, Mrs. John, 1001 Glenridge Dr., Apt. #213, Louisville, KY 40242 Gillenwater, Mrs. James E., P. O. Box 526, Glasgow, KY 42141 Glover, Miriam Anne, 210 Crescent Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 Goldman, Mrs. George, Rt. 1, Box 154, New Salisbury, IN 47161 Gorman, Mr. & Mrs. Patrick, 4300 Talahi Way, Louisville, KY 40207 Graves, Jr., Mrs. Stuart, 116 Sweetbriar Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 Gray, Willard, 500 Marywood Dr., Henderson, KY 42420 Greene, Jr., Dr. Wiillam C., P. O. Box 706, Sandy Hook, KY 41171 Greenwell, Miss Mary Lydia, 2541 Griffith Ave., Owensboro, KY 42301 Groneman, Ed, 4213 Farmwood Ct., Erlanger, KY 41018 Guthrie, Charles, 1660 Normal Dr., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Haag, Wendell, 3052 Wilce Ave., Columbus, OH 43202 Haight, LaJuanda, 950 Tierra Linda Dr., #1, Frankfort, KY 40601-4675 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 67 Hall, Dr. Sue, 1904 Lynn Way, Louisville, KY 40222 Hancock, Dr. Hunter, Rt. #2, Box 80 K, Buchanan, TN 38222 Hancock, Mrs. Hunter, Rt. #2, Box 80 K. Buchanan, TN 38222 Hancock, James W., 235 Beagle Park Loop, Madisonville, KY 42431-9701 Hankla, Scott, 934 Brookhaven Dr., Frankfort, KY 40601 Hardesty, Adrienne, 209 Franklin St., Jeffersonville, IN 47130 Harker, Mr. & Mrs. George S., 10016 Prairie Dr., Valley Station, KY 40272 Harm, Mr. Ray, Walking H. Ranch, Sasabe Star Rt., Box 95A3, Tucson, AZ 85736 Harpole, Jr., Mr. Bill, 2416 Frankfort Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 Hartung, Bertha Ann, 925 North Elm St., Henderson, KY 42420 Haswell, Mr. & Mrs. William, 2619 Drayton Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Hawkins, Mr. & Mrs. Jeffery, 6920 Mt. Vernon Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45227 Head, Mr. & Mrs. Robert W., Box 2438, Art Department, Murray State University, Murray, KY 42071 Heck, Edna D., 3310 Tates Creek Rd., #607, Lexington, KY 40502-3408 Hecktorne, Dr. & Mrs. R. L., 2316 Village Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Hedge, Roger, Indiana Dept, of Natural Resources, 605 State Office Bldg., Indianapolis, IN 46204 Hedgepath, Steve & Marty, 2319 Village Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Helfrich, Mr. Eric, RR #3, RD 375N, Churubusco, IN 46723 Henderson, Mrs. Sue, 4028 Leland Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Hensel, Rose M., 7030 Corydon Ridge Rd., Lanesville, IN 47136 Hill, Mr. & Mrs. James, 14 Rio Vista Dr., Louisville, KY 40207 Hill, Mr. & Mrs. James H., 5787 Brandt Pike, Huber Heights, OH 45424-4365 Hinkle, Mr. & Mrs. Wayne, 7504 Millet Place, Crestwood, KY 40014 Hodges, Mrs. Carolyn, 141 Waters Edge Dr., Somerset, KY 42501 Hokons, Richard, 2210 Edinbrough Dr., Murray, KY 42071 Holstein, W. R., 3307 Pine Needle Ln., Louisville, KY 40241 Homan, Marilyn, 3017 Brownsboro Rd., #2, Louisville, KY 40206 Hook, Mrs. O. F., Box 146, Prospect, KY 40059 Horrar, Jean, 139 N. Broadway, Berea, KY 40403 Howard, Barry, 998 Levi Jackson Rd., London, KY 40741 Howard, Janet, 3534 Parrish Ave., Owensboro, KY 42301 Huang, Mary, 4407 Comanche Trail, Louisville, KY 40207 Hughes, Jr., Henry J., 2826 Adams Ave., Ashland, KY 41101 Hulvershorn, Tom K., 6014 Indainola, Indianapolis, IN 46220 Hyatt, Carol, 6313 Mint Spring Branch, Prospect, KY 40059 lies, Mr. & Mrs. Raymond, 2223 St. James Ct., Owensboro, KY 42301 Jackson, Jerome, Dept, of Biological Sciences, Drawer # Z, Miss. State Univ., Starkville, MS 39762 Jackson, Mr. & Mrs. Wilbur F., 4910 Manslick Rd., Louisville, KY 40216 Jenkins, Mr. & Mrs. Stuart, 1215 Tranquil Dr., Jeffersonville, IN 47130 Jenkinson, Marian, Museum of Natural History, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-2454 Johnson, George, Dept, of Biological Sciences, Arkansas Technical Univer¬ sity, Russellville, AR 72801 Johnson, Mrs. C. T., 1214 Summit Ave., Louisville, KY 40204 Johnson, Thomas & Marilyn, 4606 Tween Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Johnston, Rev. Carol, 319 Idlewylde, Apt. 3, Louisville, KY 40206 Jones, Dr. Hunt B., 1371 Bardstown Rd., Louisville, KY 40204 Jones, Jeffrey, Box 156, Bowling Green, KY 42102-0156 Jones, Joe & Barbara, 31 Brownsboro Hill Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Jones, Mr. & Mrs. Howard M., 108 W. Brown St., Glasgow, KY 42141 68 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Jones, Mr. & Mrs. Howard P., 2061 Switzer Rd., Frankfort, KY 40601 Jones, Stephen & Cheryl, 11110 Halkirk Place, Louisville, KY 40243 Jordan, Carol & Foster, 1703 Barnes Mill Rd., Richmond, KY 40475 Karem, Kenneth L., 126 Crescent Ave., Louisville, KY 40206 Kathman, Clare, 3081 Cameo Ln., Cincinnati, OH 45239 Keller, Ned, 7066 Wesselman Rd., Cleves, OH 45002 Kemper, Mr. & Mrs. Wesley, 8735 Linton Rd., Cadiz, KY 42211 Kemper, William, 412 N. Maple Ave., Danville, KY 40422 Kennedy, Mrs. Edward T., 38 East 4th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202 Kickert, Steve, 701 Cherry Grove Rd., Somerset, KY 42501 Kingsolver, Dr. Wendell R., RR #2, Carlisle, KY 40311 Kingsolver, Mrs. Virginia, RR #2, Carlisle, KY 40311 Kirkland, L. B., 8757Williams Ln., Lexington, KY 40515 Kistler, Steve, RR #3, Box 114-A, Munfordville, KY 42765 Kleen, Vernon M., RR #2, Athens, IL 62613 Knight, Rick, 804 N. Hills Dr., Johnson City, TN 37601 Korfhage, Harriet A., 2001 Glenview Ave., Louisville, KY 40222 Kornmam, Lewis, 120 Fish Hatchery Rd., Morehead, KY 40351 Kozee, Ereel, Rt. 2, Box 1084, Grayson, KY 41143 Kramer, Mr. & Mrs. Raymond S., 306 W. Legion Blvd., Owensboro, KY 42301 Krieger, Mrs. William, 130 Maple Ave., Haworth, NJ 07641 Kruger, Helen, 6706 Fegenbush Ln., Louisville, KY 40228 Krull, Frank H., 418 LaFontenay Ct., Louisville, KY 40223 Krull, Mr. & Mrs. Frank X., 7304 Shadwell Ln., Prospect, KY 40059 Kuhl, Frances, 11819 Garr Ave., Louisville, KY 40223 Kuhl, Martha, 11819 Garr Ave., Louisville, KY 40223 Kurfees, Dr. James F., Dept, of Family Practice, 550 S. Jackson, Louisville, KY 40202 Lacy, Mr. & Mrs. Don, 2809 Aldergate, Owensboro, KY 42301 Lash, Gene & Audrey, 1421 Woodcrest Manor Ct., #A, Ballwin, MO 63021- ! 8456 Lashbrook, Mrs. Emogene, 1625 Dean Ave., Owensboro, KY 42301 Lawrence, Col. Austin R., 92 Foster Ln., Palm Coast, FL 32137 Lawson, Mr. & Mrs. Sam, Red Bird Mission, HC 69, Box 575, Beverly, KY 40913 Leedam, Sarah, 710 Vine St., Murray, KY 42071 Leggett, Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth, P. O. Box 1609, Dyersburg, TN 38025 Lehman, Robert G., 501 Ridgewood Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Lemons, John W., 104 Loftus Dr., Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Lemons, Mrs. John W., 104 Loftus Dr., Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Lewis, Dr. Jerry, 217 W. Carter Ave., Clarksville, IN 47130 Lindsay, Colin, 1222 Cherokee Rd. (Carriage House), Louisville, KY 40204 Little, Ernestine W., Box 81, Mousie, KY 41839 Lodato, Michael J., 925 Park Plaza Dr., Evansville, IN 47715 Loetscher, Jr., Dr. Frederick W., 2064 Cardinal Dr., Danville, KY 40422 Love, Timothy, 3011 University Rd., Louisville, KY 40206 Maclean, Father John S., 401 Lagrange Rd., Pewee Valley, KY 40056 Mankellow, Mr. & Mrs. Gary, 7513 Briarwood Dr., Crestwood, KY 40014 Mansmith, Fred & Colleen, 425 S. Hubbards Ln., #255, Louisville, KY 40207 Marion, Mr. & Mrs. H. P., 7402 Lanfair Dr., Louisville, KY 40222 Marksberry, Jeff & Debbie, 1468 Northbend Rd., Hebron, KY 41048 Marshall, Mitchell, P. O. Box 477, Grayson, KY 41143 Martin, M.D., Jery W., 1167 31W By Pass, Bowling Green, KY 42101 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 69 Martin, Mrs. Francis W., 2114 Starmont, Louisville, KY 40207 Martin, Mrs. Spencer F., 1709 Clayton Rd., Louisville, KY 40205 Martin, Mr. & Mrs. P. K. 2890 Dublin Arbor Ln., Dublin, OH 43017 Mason, Wayne, 925 Park St., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Mastrangelo, Philip, USDA/APHIS/ADC, P. O. Box 67, Elkins, WV 26241 Mathes, Mr. & Mrs. William B., 2712 Thompson Dr., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Maxson, Mrs. Betty, 1076 Spurlock Ln., Nicholasville, KY 40356 McBeath, Mr. & Mrs. James, 4226 Telovi Ct., Louisville, KY 40241 McCandless, Judith, 330 Wildwood Place, Louisville, KY 40206 McFarland, Mr. & Mrs. James, 8406 Robin Hill Rd., Louisville, KY 40291 McIntyre, Robert & Judith, 604 Jarvis Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 McKee, Steven M., 1594 Kings Corner Rd., Lexington, OH 44904 McKinley, Dr. George G., 106 Central Ave., P. O. Box Drawer B, Glasgow, KY 42141 McKune, Miss Marie E., 3703 Warner Ave., Louisville, KY 40207 McNeely, Lee K., Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 Meier, Evelyn, 6400 Chenoweth Run Rd., Louisville, KY 40299-5150 Meriwether, B. Corbin, 267 N. 38th St., Paducah, KY 42002-7032 Merker, Mr. & Mrs. Steve, 1409 Rosewood Ave., Louisville, KY 40204 Metzger, Mr. & Mrs. Ted R., 3107 Dunlieth Ct., Louisville, KY 40241 Middleton, Cap, P. O. Box 639, Munfordville, KY 42765 Miller, Dr. Michael G., Rt. #2, Box 114-A, Murray, KY 42071 Mitchell, Mrs. Thomas K., 3209 Beals Branch Rd., Louisville, KY 40206 Monohan, Alice, P. O. Box 7362, Louisville, KY 40207 Monroe, Jr., Dr. & Mrs. Burt, Dept, of Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40208 Morford, Dr. & Mrs. Jack T., Rt. #4, Carlisle, KY 40311 Morgan, Mr. & Mrs. Allen F., 1701 Continental Dr., Madisonville, KY 42431 Moriaty, Mr. & Mrs. Edwin, 2017 Bainbridge Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Morris, Mr. Robert L., 219 Taylor Dr., Lexington, KY 40505 Mosley, Charlotte, Rt. 2, Box 96, Beaver Dam, KY 42320 Moss, Mrs. Ronald, P. O. Box 579, Cynthiana, KY 41031 Mowery, Carl D., 1406 Vine St., Murray, KY 42071 Mudd, Mrs. Charles, 4107 Ciremos Terrace, Louisville, KY 40241 Mullen, Andrew, 3047 Corydon Pike, New Albany, IN 47150 Muntan, Mrs. J. V., 3216 Bon Air, Louisville, KY 40220 Needham, Mr. Mark, 5402 Apache Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Nelson, Deloris H., 2057 Greentree Dr., Richmond, KY 40475 Nelson, Lee K., 6651 U.S. 431, Owensboro, KY 42301 Newton, Mary, 2209 Napoleon Blvd., Louisville, KY 40205 Nichols, James, 5304 Oak Creek Ln., Louisville, KY 40291 Nicholson, Debbie, 2008 Evergreen Rd., Louisville, KY 40223 Niehoff, P. Tim, 1715 Dundee Way, Louisville, KY 40205 Nightingale, Austin, 6900 U.S. Hwy. 42, Louisville, KY 40241 Noel, Mrs. Joan N., 645 Foxfire Rd., Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Noonan, Doxie, 1915 Redleaf Dr., Louisville, KY 40242 Noonan, Dr. Robert, 721 Executive Park, Louisville, KY 40207 Olsen, Mr. & Mrs. Humphrey, 107 S. 8th St., Williamsburg, KY 40769 Osborn, Virginia E., 1023 Parkway Dr., Louisville, KY 40217 O’Hara, Patricia, Rt. #2, Box 370, Marion ,KY 42064 Palmer-Ball, Sr., Mr. & Mrs. Brainard, 8207 Old Westport Rd., Louisville, KY 40222 Parker, Donald, 5705 Midnight Ln., Louisville, KY 40229 70 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Partin, Foley, Box 182, Star Rt., Clearfield, KY 40313 Pasikowski, Mr. & Mrs. James C., 317 Iola Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Passmore, Barry, Rt. #1, Box 567, South Point, OH 45680 Patrick, Robert F., 2222 Village Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Peak, Dr. & Mrs. William P. 19 Eastover Ct., Louisville, KY 40206 Peake, Dr. Richard H„ P. O. Box 28, Wise, VA 24293 Perkins, William T., 3720 Marseille Dr., Owensboro, KY 42301 Peterson, Dr. Clell T., 901 N. 18th St., Murray, KY 42071 Pfingst, Dorothy, 199 Westwind Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Phillips, Donna, 4638 Boxwood Dr., Owensboro, KY 42303 Pike, Mrs. Robert L., 2143 Goldsmith Ln., Louisville, KY 40218 Pitts, Dr. David, Biology Dept., UTM, Martin, TN 38237 Porter, Mrs. Edwin, 1820 Evergreen Rd., Anchorage, KY 40223 Porter, Joyce, P. O. Box 555, Fall of Rough, KY 40119 Poundstone, Mrs. Bruce, 130 Hamilton Park, Lexington, KY 40504 Powell, Mrs. A. L., 9122 Hwy. 405, Maceo, KY 42355 Powell, Mr. A. L. 9122 Hwy. 405, Maceo, KY 42355 Prather, Kerry, 5060 Louisville Rd., Frankfort, KY 40601 Pratt, William, 212 Oakhill Dr., Oxford, OH 45056 Raleigh, R. Glenn, 1558 Samara Glen Way, Lexington, KY 40502-5393 Rauth, Mrs. Lene, 106 E. Maple Ct., Clarksville, IN 47129 Read, Gordon, 3031 Eagle Pass, Louisville, KY 40217 Reed, Dr. Robert G., 1919 Sussex Place, Owensboro, KY 42301 Reed, Mrs. Robert G., 1919 Sussex Place, Owensboro, KY 42301 Richardson, Mrs. Nancy E., 2045 Alves Ferry Rd., Henderson, KY 42420 Rickert, Mr. & Mrs. Jon, 804 Dogwood Dr., Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Ricketts, Mr. & Mrs. Arthur, 412 Center St., Berea, KY 40403 Riggs, Mr. & Mrs. Michael, 3804 Willmar Ave., Louisville, KY 40218 Itigli, Joseph C., 6877 C. Road 14, Ft. Morgan, CO 80701 Ritehison, Gary, Dept, of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475 Robbinson, Harriet M., 608 Creastbrook, Louisville, KY 40206 Roberts, Edwards, 204 Wyckcliff Dr., Otisco, IN 47163 Roberts, Waldon, 3792 Illinois Ave., Louisville, KY 40213 Robertson, Richard R. Phil, Rt. #1, Box 26-B, Brownstown, IN 47220 Robinson, Mrs. Ann, 207 Elizabeth St., Elizabethtown, KY 42701 Robinson, Mark, 3501 Pimlico Pkwy., #48, Lexington, KY 40517 Robinson, Mrs. Vera, 3501 Pimlico Pkwy., #48, Lexington, KY 40517 Roman, Christopher, 7502 Lesane Dr., Louisville, KY 40214 Rommel, Mrs. Virginia, 134 N. Peterson, #8, Louisville, KY 40206 Rowe, William C., 9033 Big Bend, St. Louis, MO 63119 Royer, Lawrence, 235 S. 900 West, Cedar City, UT 84720 Russell, Mr. H. Joseph, 763 McBrayer Dr., Harrodsburg, KY 40330 Rust, Delbert H„ 885 North St., Coiumbus, IN 47203 Rutledge, C. E., 234 Kelly Dr., Glasgow, KY 42141 Sandlin, Dr. Dennis, P. 6. Box 7069, Hazard, KY 41702 Sandlin, Eileen W., Box 21, Buckhorn, KY 41721 Schneider, Miss Evelyn J., 211 W. Oak, #923, Louisville, KY 40203 Schoettler, Mr. Frank W., 180 Edgewood Dr., Louisville, KY 40243 Schulte, Carmen, 6506 Camp Ernest Rd., Buidington, KY 41005 Schultz, Carl J., 501 Old Stone Ln., Louisville, KY 40207 Schutte, Helga, #11 Green Hill, 3017 Brownsboro Rd., Louisville, KY 40206 Selvidge, Mr. & Mrs. Roger, 904 North Dr., Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Shadowen, Dr. Herbert, 1927 Cedar Ridge Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42101 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 71 Shannon, Mr. & Mrs. Francis P., 3021 Eagle Pass, Louisville, KY 40217 Sherrill, Michael, 317 Idlewylde Dr., #4, Louisville, KY 40206 Sherwood, Shari Seeders, HC RI, Box 330, New Concord, KY 42076 Sherwood, Tom, HC RI, Box 330, New Concord, KY 42076 Short, Mrs. Eugene, 1956 Eastview Ave., Louisville, KY 40205 Smith, Lawrence D., 7010 Bearcreek Dr., Louisville, KY 40207 Smith, Mr. Tony, 1614 Deerwood Ave., Louisville, KY 40205-1004 Smock, Mr. & Mrs. William, 409 Mockingbird Valley Rd., Louisville, KY 40207 Snyder, David, Department of Biology, Austin Peay University, Clarksville,, TN 37044 Sparks, Larry, 211 Village Dr., Louisville, KY 40205 Spencer, Dr. Donnie, P. O. Box 1129, Hazard, KY 41701 Stamm, F. W., 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, KY 40241-2425 Stamm, Mrs. F. W., 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville, KY 40241-2425 Starks, Randolph & Linda, 2212 Sieger Villa Ct., Louisville, KY 40218-1543 Starr, Dr. & Mrs. Russell, Rt. #7, Glasgow, KY 42141 Steffen, Ted & Pam, 2404 Park Boundary Rd., Louisville, KY 40205 Steilberg, Mr. & Mrs. Arhtur, P. O. Box 72361, Valley Station, KY 40272 Stephens, Mr. & Mrs. Tom, 1884 Hidden Springs, Burlington, KY 41005 Stevenson, Mr. & Mrs. Thomas, P. O. Box #7, Stanley, KY 42375 Stinson, Michael C., 107 Fenley, #N8, Louisville, KY* 40207 Stokes, Mrs. Louise B., 276 Water Tower Rd., Cadiz, KY 42211 Straughan, Dr. Marion, Box 856, Wise, VA 24293 Sturgeon, Mitchell, 308 Walnut St., Cave City, KY 42127 Sullivan, Mrs. James, 2332 Manchester Rd., Louisville, KY 40205 Summerfield, Donald P., 9910 Prairie Dr., Valley Station, KY 40272 Susie, Mrs. Alfred G., 3105 Haddon Rd., Louisville, KY 40222 Sutton, E. Marie, 2634 Westmoreland Rd., Lexington, KY 40511 Tarbox, Jeff & Kim, 827 Carter Ave., Ashland, KY 41101 Taylor, Dot, 106 Kratz Ln., Middletown, KY 40243 Thacker, Sr., Mr. & Mrs. Ralph, 1738 Freeman Ave., Owensboro, KY 42301 Theiss, Dr. & Mrs. Chester, 1808 Valley Vista, Borden, IN 47106 Thomas, Dr. Betty B., 1106 Cherokee Rd., #6, Louisville, KY 40204-1261 Thomas, Mrs. Ben Allen, Chenoweth Farm, Shelbyville, KY 40065 Thompson, Dr. Pete, Moore 235, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475 Thompson, Dr. Ralph L., CPO 2325, Berea, KY 40404 Trapp, John L., 400 W. Burke St., Martinsburg, WV 25401 Triner, Ed, 5601 Coach Gate Wynde, #26, Louisville, KY 40207 Tucker, William T., 61 Main St., Kingston, NH 03848 Tungland, Barry, 4608 Hwy. #53 South, Crestwood, KY 40014 Tyler, William, 2309 Mayfair Dr., Owensboro, KY 42301 Uterhart, Dr. & Mrs. Andrew, 469 Stratford Dr., Lexington, KY 40503 Vail, Mr. & Mrs. Robert T., 3920 Altwood Ct., Anchorage, KY 40245 Voit, Betty, 600 Wataga Dr., Louisville, KY 40206 Walter, Mary, 220 Pennsylvania Ave., Louisville, KY 40206-1540 Washburn, Mr. & Mrs. Steve, 1231 Bardstown Rd., #5, Louisville, KY 40204 Weatherby, Alfred Dudley & Nancy, 223 N. Madison Ave., Middletown, KY 40243 Webb, Larry W., 10730 Barren River Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Wedekind, Carl, 3226 Boxhill Ln., Louisville, KY 40222-6105 Wells, Mrs. Herbert, 105 Ashford Dr., Winchetser, KY 40391 Westerman, Mr. & Mrs. Albert, 715 Bellaire Ave., Lexington, KY 40508 72 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Whalen, Dr. Charles, 152 Minkelson Dr., Florence, KY 41042 Whitt, Professor A. L., Department of Biology, Eastern Kentucky Univer¬ sity, Richmond, KY 40475 Whittington, Ann, 612 Brightwood Ct., #3, Louisville, KY 40207 Wickersham, Janet, 2757 Northmont Ln., Richmond, IN 47374 Wiglesworth, Mr. William, Box 336, Cynthiana, KY 41031 Wiley, Jr., Dr. R. Haven, 102 Keith Rd., Carrboro, NC 27510 Wilhelmi, Mr. & Mrs. Keith, 2913 Cambridge Rd., Louisville, KY 40220 Williams, Morris D., Box 167, Rt. #5, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464 Williams, Mr. & Mrs. James M., 480 Seeley Dr., Lexington, KY 40502 Williams, Mr. & Mrs. Robert, 3417 Barclay Dr., Louisville, KY 40299 Willing, D. Sherriel, 4005 Bowen Circle, P. O. Box 540, Crestwood, KY 40014 Wilson, Mrs. F. Eugene, #5 Park View Dr., Bowling Green, KY 42101 Wilson, Mr. & Mrs. Ed, 1220 S. KY 279-S, Owensboro, KY 42301 Wilson, Mr. & Mrs. Montelle, 1863 Elizabethtown Rd., Leitchfield, KY 42754 1 Wissinger, Greg, 2709 Grinstead Dr., #2, Louisville, KY 40206 Wolanin, Janet, 118 S. Birchwood, Louisville, KY 40206 Worthington, Charles, 1019 Worthington Rd., Owensboro, KY 42301 Wright, Miss Audrey, 1312 Hepburn Ave., Louisville, KY 40204 Yater, Marjory, 417 Belgravia Ct., Louisville, KY 40208 Young, John B., Rt. #3, Bedford, KY 40006 Young, M.D., Paul G., 1401 Harrodsburg Rd., #A550, Lexington, KY 40504 Zimmerman, Mr. Herbert M., 1363 Tyler Park Dr., Louisville, KY 40204 Zollner, Mr. Raymond J., 3126 Dogwood Dr., Louisville, KY 40220 Libraries, Universities, Etc. Memberships: Acquisitions Division, Albert R. Mann Library, Cornell University, Ithaca,, NY 14853 Agriculture Library, Agriculture Sc. Center-N, University of Kentucky,! Lexington, KY 40546 Austin Peay State University, Woodward Library, Periodicals, Clarksville, TN 37044 Bernheim Forest Nature Center, Clermont, KY 40110 British Library, Document Supply Center, Serials Acquisitions, Boston Spa-Yorks, LS 23 7BQ England Camden-Carrol Library, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 Crabbe Library, Periodicals Division, Central Serials, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475 Helm-Craven Library, Serials Department, Western Kentucky University,) Bowling Green, KY 42101 High School, Franklin Simpson, P. O. Box 389, Franklin, KY 42135 Library, Merriam Lab., U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Patuxent Wildlife, Service, Laurel, MD 20708 Lincoln Memorial, University Library, Harrogate, TN 37752 Louisiana State University, Library, Serials Department, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Louisville Free Public Library, 4th & York Sts., Louisville, KY 40203 Memorial Library — Serials, University of Wisconsin, 728 State Street,, Madison, WI 53706 Murray State Library, Periodicals Department, Murray State University,! Murray, KY 42071 N.Y. State Library — Ser. Cont., Cultural Education Center, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12230 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 73 Periodicals/Records Clerk, Morris Library, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 Pettingill Library, Vermont Inst, of Natural Sciences, Woodstock, VT 05091 Science Library, E-25-13 Young Hall, c/o Grace Doherty Library, Center College, Danville, KY 40422 Serials Division, Ohio State University Library, 1858 Neil Avenue, Colum¬ bus, OH 43210 Serials Technical Service, Mitchell Memorial Library, Mississippi State University, Starkvlle, MS 39762 Serials Unit, Purdue University Libraries, West Lafayette, IN 47907 The Library, Serials Division, Michigan State Universty, East Lansing, MI 48824 FIELD NOTES A NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL SPECIMEN FROM KENTUCKY Among several frozen specimens obtained from Gene Boaz, a raptor rehabilitator from Paducah, was a Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus). The owl was captured in Pryorsburg, Graves County on 26 No¬ vember 1988, given to Boaz the same day, and died in a cage that night. I prepared the owl as a study skin (GEW 5852). It was an adult- plumaged male (testes 4x1) weighing only 60.0 g, somewhat emaciated, with no fat. The longest primaries on each wing are broken. I suspect this occurred during the overnight in the cage. The remainder of the plumage is in good condition. I detected no molt. Sequential wear of the undamaged primaries suggests the owl was hatched in 1988 (Evans and Rosenfield, pp. 209-214 in Nero et al. eds. 1987. Biology and conservation of northern forest owls: symposium proceedings. U.S.D.A. General Tech. Rpt. RM-142). The stomach was empty. Emaciation is supported by the fact that the average weight of male Saw-whet Owls is considerably heavier at 74. 9g (Earhart and Johnson. 1970. Condor 72:251-264.) The recent “Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky” (Monroe, Stamm, Palmer-Ball. 1988.) describes the species as an “extremely rare spring, fall and winter visitant,” and lists 13 records. These 13 records are concentrated in northern Kentucky extending west to Land Between the Lakes, which is a short distance from Graves County. I suspect this secretive species is far more regular in Kentucky than currently realized. Perhaps playing recordings of their calls would test this idea. It is a pleasure to donate the specimen (now UL 6269) to the growing collections at the University of Louisville, which are under the care of Burt L. Monroe, Jr. I thank my mother, Ethel Woolfenden, of Paducah for establishing the contact with Gene Boaz. — GLEN E. WOOLFENDEN, Department of Biology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620. NOTES ON BREEDING BIRDS OF THE RECLAIMED SURFACE MINES IN WESTERN KENTUCKY During the winter of 1988-89, a number of noteworthy bird records were reported from the extensive, reclaimed surface mines of Ohio and 74 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Muhlenberg counties (see KW 65:31-38, 1989). These observations helped fuel enthusiasm for investigating the possibility that the reclaimed mines held good potential for unique breeding records, as well. During late May and June 1989, as part of the Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas Project, we devoted approximately a week of field time to making a preliminary in¬ vestigation of the breeding avifauna of the reclaimed surface mines in a portion of the Shawnee Hills (Western Coalfield). In addition, several subsequent visits were made later in the year to follow up on earlier ob¬ servations. Efforts were focused on Ohio and Muhlenberg counties where earlier observations suggested the probability of nesting of Northern Harriers and Short-eared Owls. GREAT BLUE HERON (Ardea herodias) : On November 25, Don Parker and Palmer-Ball observed three Great Blue Heron nests in a mature deciduous tree situated on the shore of a small impoundment on the Pea¬ body 20th Century Mine in southern Ohio County. Subsequent conversation with K.O.S. member Tony Eaden brought to light the fact that he had observed these same nests as early as 1987, and that successful nesting had occurred there at least once. During the November 1989 observation, single birds were seen perched on two of the three nests. This record represents I an eastward extension of the nesting range of the Great Blue Heron in Kentucky of approximately 50 miles and is the first documentation of a I rookery composed of only a few pairs of this species in the state. NORTHERN HARRIER (Circus cyaneus) : The Northern Harrier or Marsh Hawk was reported nesting in the “Barrens” of Kentucky by Audu¬ bon in the early 1800s and vague reference was made to nesting in Nelson County in 1927 (Mengel, Birds of Kentucky, p. 218). Otherwise, the harrier has been reported only occasionally during summer, and without further evidence of nesting, from a few localities scattered across the western two-thirds of the state. On the afternoon of May 25, we visited the reclaimed Peabody Sinclair Mine in eastern Muhlenberg County and began the task of studying the movements of several pairs of harriers. We focused our attention on a broad expanse of mixed grasses and forbs surrounded by gentle slopes i where both a pair of Northern Harriers and a pair of Short-eared Owls seemed to have territories. Interestingly, both individuals of the pair of Harriers were brown in plumage and somewhat difficult to tell apart, but paired behavior was evident and we assumed the male to be a sub-adult. Although we were able to watch the pair of harriers for an extended period that afternoon, it was not until the morning of May 26 that Barron felt confident he had identified a spot in the tall grasses where repeated visits by the birds made probability of a nest site worthy of further investigation. We approached the site by foot, and when we were within 50 feet of it a harrier bolted from the ground. We walked up to the spot to find a loose, rather bulky mat of dead grasses and weed stalks built on the ground upon which lay two pale blue-green eggs. The nest was situated about halfway down a gentle, south-facing slope dominated by fescue (Festuca spj and yellow sweet-clover (Melilotus officinalis) . After taking several photo¬ graphs, we retreated and did not bother the site again. On June 8, Palmer- Ball returned to the nest site only to find one egg crushed and lying in the nest and the other lying intact in the grass off to the side. It is un¬ known whether or not our action caused abandonment or predation of the nest, but it was felt as though visiting the nest could have contributed to its failure. Another factor that may have been involved was the age of the 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 75 pair. Since the male was still in brown plumage, it was probably only a year old and, thus inexperience may have also contributed to the demise of the nest. It is unknown whether or not this is the first documentation of a sub-adult bird attempting to nest. Nearly within sight of the hunting range of this pair of harriers was the apparent home range of a second pair. The gray-plumaged male was observed engaging in courtship flight on several occasions and the pair seemed to work over one broad valley, indicating a probable nest site there. Having already found an active nest in the vicinity, we did not investigate the actions of this pair further, fearing that discovery of a nest might lead to predation or abandonment. In mid-October, Palmer-Ball revisited the general area of both pairs’ territories and found no less than seven juvenile birds foraging within sight of one another. Several of the young birds were observed hunting together and engaging in casual aerial battles, suggesting they might be brood mates. Just to the east, across the Green River in southwestern Ohio County, we discovered a second Northern Harrier nest later on the afternoon of May 26 on a reclaimed portion of the Peabody Ken Mine. This pair of adult birds was observed for nearly three quarters of an hour before we were able to determine the probable location of a nest when the gray- plumaged male dropped prey into the grass. Closer inspection of the spot turned up five downy young scattered about in a flattened area in the grasses of perhaps three square feet. The young varied in size from fist size to about half that. The nest site was on a gentle east-facing slope approximately one third down from the crest of a rise to the floor of a broad valley. All that remained of the “nest” was a flattened mat of dead grass and weed stalks. While we photographed the young, the female repeatedly dove overhead, calling continuously. After only a few minutes, we left the nest site and remained nearby long enough to see an adult return to it with prey. On July 16, Palmer-Ball returned to this site but was unable to relocate it in the tall grasses. The presence of young in this nest at the same time that eggs were apparently being laid in the Muhlenberg County nest illustrated the length of the breeding season in this area. It also might be further evidence of “inexperience” on the part of the young Muhlenberg County pair in estab¬ lishing a territory and initiating nesting activity. About two miles to the southeast, on the recently reclaimed Peabody Homestead Mine south of Cool Springs, nesting evidence was apparent, but again, with a confirmed nest site identified in the area, we felt that further investigation for another was not warranted. Evidence of nesting- in this area (the general area where a Short-eared Owl nest had been located in May by Stamm and Clay, KW 65:75-76, 1989) included persis¬ tent courtship flight by a gray-plumaged male. It might be worth mention¬ ing that the opportunity to observe this spectacular behavior makes any trip to the area well worth the effort during late spring and summer. Males were observed in courtship flight from mid-May to mid-June, but the behavior probably was in evidence both before and after this period. The vertical dives and abrupt flips that sometimes included a complete somersault were certainly one of the most impressive avian displays we had ever witnessed. On August 3, we watched a gray-plumaged male attending a chestnut-bellied juvenile in this area as the two coursed back and forth in search of prey. On one occasion, the male appeared to capture ( Prey and then waited on the ground until the juvenile came and took the prey from it. For all practical purposes, this seemed to confirm nesting 76 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 in this area, as well. Sightings of harriers during the summer 1989 season were not limited to these areas. A pair of adult birds was observed foraging over a re¬ claimed surface mine in eastern McLean County near the community of Island on June 15 by Palmer-Ball. On one occasion, with both birds on the wing, the male approached the female from above and dropped prey to her, which she caught before it hit the ground. No nest site was discovered, and the leisure behavior of the birds, e.g. sitting on posts for long periods during approximately an hour of observation, prompted the speculation that perhaps the pair had experienced nesting failure and were subsequently passing time afterwards or perhaps prior to initiating a new nesting effort. In northern Todd County near the community of Epleys, some 30 miles south of the major reclaimed surface mine areas of the Shawnee Hills, Palmer-Ball observed a gray-plumaged male defending a large field of fescue from other raptors and Turkey Vultures on June 7. Although no further evidence of nesting could be observed, the defensive behavior of the male seemed to indicate that some sort of nesting effort might be under way. In addition to these observations of probable and confirmed nesting activity, harriers were noted on mines in two other areas. On May 26, we observed a gray-plumaged male foraging over the reclaimed Peabody Mart- wick Mine along the Green River north of U.S. 62 in eastern Muhlenberg County. Another pair of adult Northern Harriers was observed by Palmer- Ball on a reclaimed surface mine in northern Ohio County approximately 4.0 miles northeast of Beaver Dam on June 29. Further evidence of nesting at these sites was not obtained. Based on these observations, it seems clear that the Northern Harrier is not a rare nesting species of these extensive, grassy reclaimed surface mines. Moreover, it would seem probable that a substantial nesting popula¬ tion has been present for an undetermined number of years. In June 1982, we observed a female harrier harassing Turkey Vultures (Cathartes aura) over a reclaimed mine in Muhlenberg County ( KW 58:82, 1982). At the time, the possibility of nesting was considered, but further investigation was not undertaken. From conversations we had with at least two em- | ployees of the Peabody Coal Company who frequent the mines all year¬ long, it was clear that harriers were considered to be a normal summer I resident of the area. It is interesting to suppose that if a nesting population of Northern Harriers has been present on the surface mines for some years, birds like the one in Todd County might actually represent spillover of excess birds into peripheral areas. Anyone who has visited these areas and witnessed the spectacular numbers of raptors to be found there cer¬ tainly could not expect for the reclaimed surface mines to harbor any more harriers and other raptors than they appear to sustain at present! It would seem logical that if a successful nesting population has been | established on the mines, some birds should be expanding into peripheral areas. From our observations, it would seem that visitation of nest sites may be detrimental to nesting success. Moreover, it would appear that any closely associated pair of Northern Harriers observed from mid-May through July could be regarded as attempting to nest. It might be that the “safest” method of confirming nesting would be to visit potential areas in July when recently-fledged young are still being attended by parents. COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) : During early May 1989, Richard Healy found at least two Common Moorhens on a small, cattail- 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 77 ringed pond on the Peabody Homestead Mine, approximately 1.5 miles southwest of Cool Springs in southern Ohio County. Subsequent visits to this site by us and others yielded observations of up to four moorhens there. Palmer-Ball searched part of the pond’s margin for a nest several times during late May and June without success. On July 16, Palmer-Ball, Don Parker and Diane Ebel visited the pond and found a pair of adult moorhens attending four half-grown young along the edge of the cattails. The young were well-feathered and were beginning to acquire red color on their bills, but they probably could not fly. When approached, the entire family group disappeared into the thick cattails. On subsequent visits, none of the moorhens could be located, suggesting that perhaps something hap¬ pened to the young, but this theory is unconfirmed. This represents only the third confirmed nesting of Common Moorhen in the state. SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) : Following the initial dis¬ covery of nesting Short-eared Owls in Ohio County (Stamm and Clay, KW 65:75-76, 1989), we searched similar habitat across the Green River in Muhlenberg County. Palmer-Ball had observed a pair of seemingly terri¬ torial owls feeding over an extensive, grassy area on the reclaimed Peabody Sinclair Mine on May 18. On the evening of May 25, we returned to this site and watched the pair of owls for an extended period as they foraged over an area of open grassland of perhaps 50-100 acres in extent. After approximately forty-five minutes of observation, Barron became convinced that he had determined the location of a spot where adults had dropped into the tall grasses several times with prey. We approached the site on foot and flushed one of the adults from the ground where six downy young were found scattered over a couple of square feet in a slight depression of bare ground amid several clumps of grass. As expected, size of the young varied substantially, the largest being approximately six inches long with buffy down and open eyes to the smallest, which was only about three inches long with lighter down and closed eyes. The nest site was situated on a gentle, west-facing slope, approximately one-third down the slope from its crest and above a broad flat area below. The vegetation was dominated by fescue, orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata) and bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus cornxculatus) . After several minutes of observation, we left the young and allowed the adults to come back to the nest site. On the only subsequent visit to this site on June 14, Palmer-Ball was not able to relocate any young, but the adult male flushed from the ground nearby and quietly flew away. As the young are quick to move about in the grasses surrounding a nest site as they grow, it must be presumed that relocating them would be difficult, and that at least some of these young were successful in fledging. On June 14, during a visit to the Peabody Homestead Mine in southern Ohio County, Palmer-Ball encountered an intact family group of at least four full-grown young and an adult or two perched on one of the gravel roads running through the reclaimed mine. Upon initial approach by car, five owls were observed perched together on the gravel road, and on two occasions, the adult male (obvious because of its whitish wing-linings and light underparts) flew directly towards the car in harassment, veering only at the last second and passing overhead. It was unclear how many of the remaining five birds were young, but it was presumed that perhaps all or all but one were juveniles. No down was observed still being retained on any portion of their bodies, but at least four were obviously different from adults due to their buffy foreheads (in sharp contrast to the lighter fore¬ heads of adults). Individuals within the group darted and dove playfully 78 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 at one another, and repeatedly landed together. The entire group was approached to within approximately a hundred feet by car before they flew and alighted nearby in a weedy area. Upon approach by foot, first the adult male rose from the grass and began barking in defense, then the young rose up and actually flew towards the observer, apparently curious about the strange intruder. COMMON NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles minor): Away from urban set¬ tings, this largely nocturnal aerialist is not well-known as a breeding species in Kentucky. Although we were not able to confirm nesting of nighthawks on the reclaimed surface mines, the presence of pairs and males engaged in territorial displays in late May and June suggested nest¬ ing on rocky substrates exposed amidst the open grasses in both Muhlenberg and Ohio counties. BELL’S VIREO (Vireo bellii) : On May 18, Palmer-Ball discovered a small colony of Bell’s Vireos on the Peabody Homestead Mine just south of Cool Springs in southern Ohio County. At least two territorial males were found singing on a gentle southeast-facing slope, planted in black | locusts (Robinia pseudoacacia ) . Upon closer study of one of the males, it was found to be assisting a mate in nest construction. The nearly com¬ pleted nest was placed approximately two and one-half feet above the ground on the south side of an eight-foot tall black locust. On May 20, the nest contained four eggs and on June 14 it contained four fully feathered young ready to fledge. On July 16, the empty but intact nest was collected for preservation. On May 26, we located a territorial pair of Bell’s Vireos and their nest containing four eggs (see cover) in similar habitat on the reclaimed Pea¬ body Martwick Mine just north of US 62 and west of the Green River in eastern Muhlenberg County. The nest site was not revisited. Also, on May 26, we located another colony of singing male Bell’s Vireos in southwestern Ohio County just across the Green River from the Paradise Steam Plant on the Peabody Ken Mine. Although no nests were located, three to five territorial males were noted in a vast area probably I in excess of a hundred acres of scattered black locusts and other small saplings. It is likely that these birds are part of a more substantial nesting population in the immediate vicinity. These observations represent an extension of the known nesting range of the Bell’s Vireo in Kentucky by more than 50 miles to the east-southeast of the population Barron discovered in Union County in 1988 (KW 64:65, 1988). In areas where early stages of successional woody vegetation (espe¬ cially young black locusts and other shrubby legumes) dominate large por¬ tions of the reclaimed surface mines, it is probable that Bell’s Vireos find the habitat optimal for nesting. If a substantial nesting population of this species has not already developed in this portion of the state, it would appear that the future of the Bell’s Vireo there certainly looks bright. HENSLOW’S SPARROW (Ammodramus henslowii) : On May 26, we discovered a colony of singing Henslow’s Sparrows on an extensive, gently sloping hillside of tall grasses. The field was located on a reclaimed por¬ tion of the Peabody Ken Mine near the Hopewell Cemetery in southwestern Ohio County and covered at least 50 acres. This field was dominated by a ; thick growth of waist-high switch grass (Panicum virgatum) used as a seed source for revegetation efforts. In contrast to the much sparser growth of grasses prevalent on most portions of the reclaimed mines, the grasses 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 79 here were thick and somewhat matted, making the habitat character of this field quite different. This site was revisited by Palmer-Ball, Don Parker and Diane Ebel on July 16, when males were still singing and an agitated adult bird carrying food was approached to within approximately 30 feet, all but confirming breeding at this site. No less than five territorial males were present during the summer, although the presence of more was probable. A single Sedge Wren (Cistothorus platensis) was heard sing¬ ing in the field on our initial visit but could not be relocated on subsequent visits. This represents the first summer record for Henslow’s Sparrow in Ohio County and one of only a handful for the western half of the state. Although the presence of large tracts of idle grassland in this area might lead one to think that the mines must harbor good numbers of this species, it appears that over most of the territory the growth of grasses is not thick enough to be preferred as nesting habitat by Henslow’s Sparrows. The sparsely distributed clumps of fescue and other grasses dominant over most of the mines are much more suited to the habitat preferences of the Grass¬ hopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) , a species that must reach its maximum breeding density over large portions of these reclaimed mines. This summary of noteworthy breeding observations serves to provide a basis for further investigation of the nesting birds of the extensive, re¬ claimed surface mines in the Shawnee Hills section of western Kentucky. Included herein are only the most noteworthy observations made during the nesting season of 1989. Numerous nesting records of other species were obtained during this field work that have been incorporated into the Ken¬ tucky Breeding Bird Atlas Project. It is unknown to what extent the species included in this summary actually nest in western Kentucky, nor is it clear how long these birds have been present as nesting species on the reclaimed surface mines. It does seem apparent that many noteworthy ornithological happenings have pre¬ viously gone undetected since large scale habitat alteration, largely as a result of surface mining activities, began in the mid-1900s. The systematic replacement of large tracts of deciduous forest with grassland and early successful vegetation has probably introduced a permanent change in the avifauna of this region of Kentucky. In essence, these artificially-created openings simulate the once widespread prairies of the Pennyroyal that were distributed in a wide band across southern Kentucky just south of the Shawnee Hills. Today, the prairies have been converted completely to agricultural land, and the relatively undisturbed grasslands of the re¬ claimed mines just to the north are apparently sufficient to attract birds like the Northern Harrier to nest in the state after a hiatus of many years. Other species like the Bell’s Vireo and Prairie Falcon may be invading these habitate for the first time. The latter species has recently been re¬ ported in Kentucky in winter {KW 65:14, 34-35, 78-79, 1989), and like many other raptors, was greatly reduced in numbers during the era of widespread DDT use in the 1950s and ’60s. Following the end of this period, numbers of most raptors have rebounded. One of the results of this trend has been a well-pronounced increase in the number of records of the Prairie Falcon east of the Mississippi River in the 1970s and 1980s. Prior to the 1950s, when the Prairie Falcon was more numerous, most of the Shawnee Hills of Kentucky was vegetated in natural woodlands, and spe¬ cies of expansive, open ground like the Prairie Falcon were non-existent. It appears that as this species’ population has rebounded and consequently expanded into new areas, this graceful predator now finds suitable habitat 80 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 in regions where formerly it was never before known due to the lack of appropriate habitat. This habitat is also much more extensive than one might realize, in- i volving large portions of more than a half-dozen western Kentucky counties, j Based on reports from similar surface mined areas of southern Illinois and Indiana, the unusual breeding records described herein are quite similar to those of these adjacent states where nesting of Northern Harriers, Short- i eared Owls, Bell’s Vireos and other species have been observed for a num¬ ber of years in these reclaimed habitats (James Campbell, pers. comm.). Hopefully, as more and more birders become aware of the interesting opportunities that are available in these areas, more information will be gained about the region’s avifauna. We wish to thank the Peabody Coal Company for allowing us access to certain areas in order to conduct this field work. — Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commis¬ sion, 407 Broadway, Frankfort, KY 40601 and Alan Barron, 2460 Maciel I Ln., Crescent City, CA 95531. NEWS AND VIEWS The fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held at Kenlake State Resort Park on 28-30 September 1990. Anyone planning to attend should make their reservations and room accommodations early. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact Lee McNeely, P. O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005. Members are also encouraged to bring a couple of slides for the photo-quiz session. rhe Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) IN THIS ISSUE 'I MEMORIAM, HOWARD P. JONES, 1927-1990, Herbert E. Shadowen 83 HE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1990, Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. 83 EPORT OF THE TREASURER, Kathryn Mudd, (Audited by F. W. Stamm) . 93 HE K.O.S. FALL MEETING 95 I ELD NOTES . 97 EWS AND VIEWS 100 82 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Vice-President Corr. Sec. -Treasurer 4107 Recording Secretary Councillors : Gary Ritchison, Richmond Jeff Jones, Bowling Green Clell Peterson, Murray Bert Powell, Maceo Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Lee McNeely, Burlington Kathryn Mudd Ciremos Terrace, Louisville, 40222 Donnie Spencer, Hazard 1989-1991 1989- 1991 1990- 1992 1990-1992 Jim Williams, Lexington Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. I - ■ THE COVER We thank Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. for the photograph of the western race Rufous-sided (Spotted) Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus [montanus]) taken in Meade County (see Field Notes). 91 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 83 IN MEMORIAM HOWARD P. JONES, 1927-1990 Howard Jones was an active member of the Kentucky Ornithological Society before I returned to Kentucky in 1961, so I am not acquainted with his earlier years. He was the Recording Secretary in 1958 and later served as Councillor, Vice-President, and President. Howard made literary con¬ tributions to our organization in the form of field notes and contributions to seasonal reports, nesting records, and mid-winter bird counts. He was the leader and compiler of both the Frankfort and Kleber Wildlife Man¬ agement Area counts for many years through 1989 — even though he was seriously ill when the last count was made. Whether he was studying birds, fishing along some quiet stream, or hiking through a wooded area, Howard enjoyed his hours and days in the field. He was a quiet, proficient field ornithologist and was sought after to lead field trips at our spring and fall meetings. We respected him not only for his expertise but also for his kindly personality and his willingness to help our organization in any way he could contribute. To me Howard typifies the type of individual who is the real backbone of successful ornithological organizations, and we will miss his friendly encouragement. He leaves his wife, Jean, and two sons, Joel and Jeff, who is also a K.O.S. member and has served as Councillor just as his father had served 30 years earlier. — H. E. Shadowen, Dept, of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY 42101. THE NESTING SEASON, SUMMER 1990 Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. June was warm and wet with heavy rain and wind storms, particu¬ larly on June 6 and 7, bringing down limbs and uprooting trees. In Louis¬ ville the temperature averaged out at 75.1 degrees, a plus 1.4 degrees above normal. Precipitation locally was 6.13 inches for the month of June, 2.53 inches above normal. This caused the rockbed at the Falls of the Ohio to be covered with water for much of the time and thus dispersed the birds. In July it was hot and humid, with the temperature averaging out at .09 degrees above normal. Precipitation throughout the state was below normal. In Louisville rainfall amounted to only 1.96 inches for the month of July, 2.14 inches below normal. The reports this season contained much information on breeding. At least four or more individuals did Breeding Bird Atlas work, and a number of interesting records were obtained, particularly for the Bewick’s Wren, Willow Flycatcher and Lark Sparrow. Bald Eagles fledged young, and all told it was an interesting season. Abbreviations : BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; BBA = Breeding Bird Atlas; CRL = Cave Run Lake; CFH = Clark Fish Hatch¬ ery, Rowan County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; PHSM = Peabody Homestead Surface Mine, Ohio County; Reelfoot NWR = Reelfoot Na¬ tional Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County. 84 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Loons through Bitterns — Quite unusual was finding two to three Common Loons on Dale Hollow Lake, Clinton County on June 30 (Richard Hannan fide BPB); a bird in breeding plumage on Mill Creek Lake at Tompkinsville, Monroe County on July 12 (BPB) ; and one immature (non¬ breeding plumage) on July 23, two on July 27, one on July 29 and two on July 31 at CRL near the dam (A1 Surmont and Lewis Kornman have seen ] the same birds since mid-June — FB). Single Double-crested Cormorants : were observed at Wysox-Cool Springs Lake, Ohio County on July 8 (KC) and along Kentucky Lake (Hwy 68) on July 10 (HCh). Four Least Bit¬ terns were seen on June 27 in a swamp on the south side of Mayfield Creek, Carlisle County (CP). Herons — Great Blue Herons were widely scattered and several new rookeries were found : one probably in excess of 100 nests with young found along Elk Pond Creek off Pond River in western Muhlenberg County on June 15 (Richard Hannan, Jim Aldrich fide BPB); five plus nests with large young in cypress trees along Little Bayou De Chien south of Ken¬ tucky 94, Fulton County on June 8 (BPB); six plus nests in sycamore trees along Claylick Creek, Livingston/Crittenden County line on June 10; | at least three nests, two with large young along Livingston Creek in Crit¬ tenden County about three and one-half miles southwest of Fredonia, Cald¬ well County on June 24 (BPB). Also, a new colony was found near New Concord, Calloway County (CP); and an adult with a juvenile bird was seen along the shore of upper Green River Lake, near Route 551 bridge, Adair County on July 10 (MS). One to two birds were also observed in each of Pulaski, Casey, Green, Grayson and Hopkins counties during July; most may have been post-breeding wanderers. Few Great Egrets were seen on casual visits to Ballard County (CP), j but five to seven were noted on the Peale Tract, BWMA on June 27 (CP). A few birds were seen in the Ohio River bottoms near Bayou, Livingston County on June 10 and July 15 (BPB) ; one at Mud Lake in Ohio River bottoms of Crittenden County, NE of Carrsville; 15 to 20 birds in a flooded field WSW of Hickman, Fulton County on June 14 (BPB) ; and 12 to 15 in flooded fields of Kentucky Bend, Fulton County (BPB). Fewer Little Blue Herons were reported this season than last year. Several adults were noted in fields next to a Mississippi River levee several miles WSW of Hickman, Fulton County on June 14 (BPB) ; an adult on a slough west of Berkley, Carlisle County on June 21 (BPB) ; 11 adults in a swamp on the south side of Mayfield Creek, Carlisle County on June 22 and eight there on June 27 (CP) ; 12 birds on the Peale Tract, BWMA on June 27 (CP) ; and an adult observed at Lentz’s Pond, Louisville, Jefferson County on July 28 (MS) and on July 29 and 31 (BPB, L. McNeil) and also on July 31 by Stamms. A few birds were also observed in a flooded field in the Mayfield Creek bottom in Carlisle County SW of Lovelaceville on June 28 - (BPB). Cattle Egret observations included: two adults on farm pond southwest of Bowling Green, Warren County on June 2 (BF); one in breeding plumage in field in rural area of Murray, Calloway County on June 18 (MM); a few birds near Blandville, Ballard County and in Car¬ lisle County SW of Lovelaceville, both on June 28 (BPB) ; two birds leaving a field near Holland, Allen County on July 10 (BPB) ; nine birds in Ballard County, SE of Wickliffe near Mayfield Creek on July 28 (CP); and scattered sightings in Graves, Ballard, Calloway and Carlisle counties | (CP). Most unusual was the Tricolored Heron at the Falls of the Ohio on June 19 (LR). A nest of the Green-backed Heron was found with five young in Adair County on June 13 (MS) ; probably nested at BPS, Grayson 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 85 County, where two birds were noted in June and two adults and two immatures in July (KC) ; also two to three at Wysox-Cool Springs Lake (KC), Lentz’s Pond (LR), and Riverside Sanctuary, Louisville (LR). A surprisingly large concentration of 55 Green-backed Herons on July 29 was at Clark Hatchery, Rowan County (FB). A Black-crowned Night-Heron was seen in southwest Washington County on July 18 (RH). High water at the Falls of the Ohio kept the species from feeding there for much of the time. Three nests of the Yellow-crowned Night-Heron were found in Shady Lane Woods (U. of K. Farm), Fayette County, and in early July at least two of the nests had two almost fully fledged young (MF, JF) ; single birds were seen on two occasions along Little Bayou De Chien at Kentucky 94, Fulton County on June 8 (BPB), on the Falls of Ohio on June 19 (LR) and July 29 (BPB) ; and singles in Graves and Carlisle counties on June 7 and 22, respectively (CP). Two immature White Ibis were first seen on July 13 and photographed on July 19 by Sharon Blackwelder, U.S. Forest Service, on one of several waterfowl impoundments being constructed by the Forest Service along Beaver Creek, which feeds into upper CRL in Menifee County; this site is along KY 1274 east of Scranton not far from the Long Bow Recreation Area on CRL. The birds were not seen after July 19 (fide BPB). Waterfowl — A Canada Goose was incubating at a farm pond near- Burlington, Boone County on April 22 (LMc) ; broods of young were ob¬ served at East Bend, Boone County on May 5 (LMc) ; adults and imma¬ tures were seen at Wysox-Cool Springs Lake, too numerous to count - — • still hundreds at the end of the period (KC). Wood Ducks apparently had a good year. Five broods were observed in western Kentucky: one in LBL, one in Graves County near Elva, two at Mayfield Creek swamp, and one in BWMA, Peale Tract (CP) ; two broods at East Bend and one in Peters¬ burg, both in Boone County (LMc) ; female with three young at Long Run County Park, Jefferson County on July 31 (S, FS) and 12 or more birds present at BPS (KC). Four Mallards capable of flight were seen at Lake Pewee on June 7 (JH), a female with four small young at Long Run County Park on July 31 (S, FS) and about 30 immatures there on the same day (S). Quite unusual was the sighting of three male Ring-necked Ducks on a pond in Muhlenberg County on July 2 (RH). A single Hooded Merganser was noted in a flooded backwater area just WSW of Hickman on July 14 (BPB) . Hawks — Black Vultures observed in western Kentucky during the period included five at a roost in Carlisle County on June 4 (CP), a pair in the Mississippi River bluff near Berkley, Carlisle County on June 21 (BPB) and 11 at the traditional roost at Bondurant, Fulton County on June 21 (CP). Pairs were noted at Berry, Pendleton County and at East Bend on June 5 and July 4, respectively (LMc). A few individuals were also seen in Hart, Barren, Allen and Monroe counties (BPB). A Turkey Vulture roost in Carlisle County held 37 birds when checked on June 4 (CP), but a total of 66 was there on July 29 (HCh). A few nests of the Osprey were found: three birds fledged from a nest on electric power line along Lake Barkley, near Empire (WB), one fledged from a nest on a channel marker light on Lake Barkley, near the Youth Station (bird banded, WB), and a pair had a large juvenile in the nest at Bayou, Liv¬ ingston County on July 15 (BPB, LR), also observed by DY. Fair numbers of Mississippi Kites were present during June and July. One bird was seen in the vicinity of Murphy’s Pond, Hickman County on June 4 (CP) ; at 86 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 least five birds (four adults and one first-year) along the Mississippi River WSW of Hickman on June 14 (BPB) ; at least 10 in loose flock about one and one-half miles north of Berkley on June 21 (BPB); two at BWMA on June 28 (CP); and 14 (most adults, 1-2 first-year birds) observed one and one-half miles SW of Blandville, Ballard County on June 28; at least three birds over the Mayfield Creek bottom about three miles WSW of Lovelaceville on the same date (BPB) ; 12 birds (11 adults, one first-year) were seen in northern Kentucky Bend, Fulton County on June 14 (BPB) and birds observed carrying food to a patch of bottomland forest near Watson Lake in Kentucky Bend on July 12 (Marc Evans, Bill Hendricks fide BPB); six birds in Ballard County, Mayfield Creek bottoms SE of Wickliffe on June 29 (CP) and two at BWMA on July 28 (CP). Three young Bald Eagles fledged from a nest at Fulton Bay in LBL (WB) ; and one bird fledged from a nest in the woods near Mammoth Furnace Bay (bird banded). The male bird was hatched in a nest in Tennessee in 1987 (WB). Two Bald Eagles were fledged from a nest at BWMA during the summer (DY). Interesting June and July records of the Northern Harrier included a pair in Hart County, near Cub Run on June 8 (KC) ; one in McLean County carrying food on June 26 (RH) ; a female in Ohio County off Hopewell Road in strip mining country on July 8 (KC, JB, PB, M. Bierly et al.) ; a male over Wysox-Cool Springs Road, Ohio County on July 8 (KC) ; and a female near Annetta, Grayson County on July 15 (AW, M. Wilson fide KC). Single Sharp-shinned Hawks were seen in eastern Cumberland County, Russell County, north of Creelsboro, June 20 (MS) and Knox County, June 27 (MS); a subadult was noted as it perched in rural Allen County about two miles SSW of Fountain Run on July 11 (BPB). Fair numbers of Cooper’s Hawks were reported as a result of BBA work. Evidence of breeding was noted by seeing birds carrying food, carrying prey, feeding young, or performing courtship flight in the fol¬ lowing counties: Caldwell, western Lyon, Grayson and Metcalfe. Other sightings of one or two birds were in the counties of Allen, Christian, Barren (three locations), Hart (two locations), Monroe (two locations), and in Pendleton. Single unidentified accipiters were found in Adair, Green and Russell counties. The only Broad-winged Hawk reported was one over the city of Murray on July 24 (HCh, Sally Leedom). An adult Red-tailed Hawk was on its nest near Big Bone, Boone County on March 31 and again on April 12 (LMc) ; four birds in Hart County on June 8 (KC) ; one to two birds in Nelson (KC, AW), Ohio (KC), Grayson and Simpson counties (KC, AW). Wild Turkey through Coots — An adult Ruffed Grouse was noted at Pine Mountain State Park on June 24 (MS). A family group of Wild Turkeys was observed near New Hope Cemetery, southern Ohio County in late June (M. Bierly fide BPB); two birds flushed from woodlands several miles SE of Cedar Springs, Allen County on July 5 (BPB) ; eight birds in LBL on July 24 (CP) ; three young in Mayfield bottoms, Carlisle County on July 28 (CP); one young on the Peale Tract, July 28 (CP). During a breeding bird survey in early June a total of 29 Northern Bobwhites was tallied on the 25-mile stretch in Hardin and Nelson counties (KC, AW). Young birds were noted on June 13 in western Adair County (MS) and a male and female Northern Bobwhite, with seven recently hatched young, were seen in Pulaski County on July 12 (MS). A Common Moorhen was heard and seen in Mayfield bottoms on June 27 (CP). A single American Coot was still present along Kentucky 1282 in Reelfoot NWR, Fulton Coun¬ ty on June 13 (BPB). 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 87 Shorebirds — A few spring migrants passed through in early June, and the first fall migrants returned later than usual, arriving by mid-July. Two Semipalmated Plovers were seen at CFH on June 1 (FB). Small num¬ bers of Semipalmated Plovers and Spotted and Pectoral Sandpipers were present at East Bend on July 30 (LMc). Killdeers were believed to have suffered from last winter’s freeze in western Kentucky; at least numbers were down in the area (CP). On July 19, however 122 Killdeers were seen on three drained ponds at CFH (FB). At least eight Solitary Sandpipers were observed on a floodplain slough along the Ohio River north of Bayou, Livingston County on July 15 (BPB, LR) ; also noted at East Bend on July 30 (LMc). A Spotted Sandpiper was seen on the bank of the Cumber¬ land River at Vicksburg, Livingston County on June 10 (BPB); a pair noted in a marshy area near Poverty, McLean County on June 20 and one there a week later may have been nesting birds (RH) ; two birds on the rockbed at Falls of the Ohio on July 4 (LR) ; and one on the Peale Tract on July 28 (CP). Twelve Semipalmated Sandpipers were at CFH on June 1 and 34 on June 4 (FB). Five White-rumped Sandpipers were seen at CFH on June 1 and eight on June 4 (FB). On June 1, four Baird’s Sandpipers were at CFH (FB). A single Least Sandpiper was seen along the Ohio River near Bayou and six plus along the Ohio River near SWMA in western Henderson County, both on July 15 (BPB, LR). A few Pectoral Sandpipers were seen in the same areas as the Least Sandpipers on the same date (BPB, LR). An adult Stilt Sandpiper was seen on a slough near SWMA on July 15 and established an early state date by one day (BPB, LR). Two Common Snipe were late in departing and were still present on June 3 in Hardin County and provided a late state date (KC, AW). Gulls and Terns — A Laughing Gull was seen in the vicinity of Mc- Alpine Dam, Louisville on June 28 (LR). One or two Ring-billed Gulls remained in the Kentucky Dam/Barkley Dam area through June and July (one was seen above Kentucky Dam on July 15 — BPB). The first-year Great Black-backed Gull at the dams in western Kentucky in May re¬ mained throughout the month of June and was observed on a buoy above Barkley Dam on July 15 (BPB, LR). Least Terns had a difficult time to nest during early June as a result of floods along the Mississippi River, and they attempted to nest on sandy agricultural land in Kentucky Bend. This resulted in nesting failures as farmers cultivated their fields. After the river dropped, birds began nesting on sandbars. According to Rochelle Menken, Missouri Conservation Department, at least three Kentucky sites were being used with 170 pairs present along Kentucky Bend, 40 pairs near Middle Bar, Hickman County, and fewer downstream from Island Number 1, Carlisle County (fide BPB) ; 11 adult birds were seen below Smithland Dam, Livingston County on July 15 (BPB, LR). A single Black Tern was observed at Flaherty, Meade County in late July (RH). Cuckoos through Woodpeckers — A Black-billed Cuckoo was heard calling in Knox County on June 9 (MS) ; an adult was on a nest near Kentucky River about three miles east of Clay Ferry Bridge, northern Madison County on June 21 (MB fide BPB); another was heard calling from a pine plantation several miles west of Marion, Crittenden County on June 25 (BPB); and one was seen in Springfield, Washington County on July 18 (RH). The Yellow-billed Cuckoo probably nested at BPS since two birds were observed there during June and July (KC) ; an active nest was found in eastern Crittenden County, several miles south of Fredonia THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 on June 24 (BPB) ; and the species was somewhat scarce in northern Ken¬ tucky (LMc). Three fledgling Barred Owls were found at the Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve in early May (LMc). The only Chuck-will’s-widows reported were the two present at BPS during the period (KC) and one in Hart County on June 10 (KC). Approximately 50 Ruby-throated Humming¬ birds were present during the period in a rural yard of Murray, where five feeders were available (WB) ; about 30 at the Woodland Nature Center in LBL (WB) ; 10 males and five females and immatures at BPS (KC); three or four birds at feeder in yard of Science Hill, Pulaski County during the period (JEl) ; nest near Middle Creek, Boone County on May 5, where two females seemingly battled over the nest, but later visits found no activity (LMc); and two females and two immatures noted on July 24 on property of Mr. and Mrs. Montelle Wilson, Leitchfield, Grayson County (fide KC). Red-headed Woodpeckers were reported from the following counties: Adair, Green, Laurel, Rockcastle, Russell, Taylor (MS) and Jef¬ ferson (S, FS). The European Starlings appear to have driven off the Red-headed Woodpecker and the Red-bellied Woodpecker in a wooded area in Lexington, Fayette County (MF, JF). A Northern Flicker was feeding young in Leitchfield on a rather late date of July 24 (KC). Flycatchers through Crows — Three nests of the Acadian Flycatcher were found in Boone County: one along Middle Creek on May 28 with incubation on June 8, a second nest at Middle Creek contained three eggs I on June 8, and a nest over Lick Creek at East Bend held one young on July 4 (LMc); three birds were seen in Nelson County on June 3 (KC, AW ) ; and 13 birds were recorded on 10 trips in different areas of Hopkins County during June (six of these were at Elk Creek — JH). A good number of Willow Flycatchers were reported and some wei-e found in new areas for new county records: one in Nelson County on June 3 (KC) ; one along the Ohio River near Mayfair Reservoir, Louisville on June 8 (LR) ; one in Knox County on June 9 and 27 (MS) ; one heard and observed at ! Sonora, Hardin County on June 11 (RH) ; a territorial bird was heard in a willow bordered marsh along Kentucky 94 about five miles WNW of Fulton, for a new county record, and one of only a few for the Jackson Purchase (BPB) ; another territorial bird noted along the Cumberland River in western Lyon County across from Iuka on June 10 (BPB); one 1 at Cool Springs, Grayson County on June 19 (RH I ; one singing near a pond at Hodgensville, LaRue County on June 11 (RH) ; one at Elk Creek bridge, Hopkins County on June 23 and in the same tree on July 25 (JH) ; and one east of Somerset in Pulaski County on July 8 (MS). Also, young were being fed out of the nest near Petersburg, Boone County on June 19 | (LMc). A nest of the Eastern Phoebe with four eggs was found at the Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve on April 15, same number of eggs with one Brown-headed Cowbird on April 22, and young were in the nest on May 5 (LMc) ; another nest along Middle Creek held five eggs on April 19 (LMc). A fair number of Tree Swallows were present during June and early July. Several birds were along the Cumberland River at Iuka, and adult birds were at Pinckneyville, Livingston County on June 10 (BPB); one at Cimmeron marsh, Hopkins County, June 12 (JH); several birds were flying about the Hickman Ferry Landing, Fulton County on June 12 (BPB) ; a pair on a farm pond with dead trees SW of Fredonia, Caldwell County (BPB) ; probable nesting birds were noted at Mud Lake, north of Carrsville and on a slough near McKinley Island on the Ohio River, Crit¬ tenden County on June 26 and 27, respectively (BPB) ; also birds perched in dead trees on Nolin Lake, Hart County on July 9 (BPB). No Tree 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 89 Swallows were found at Long Run County Park, where they had nested in some previous years (S, FS). Adult Northern Rough-winged Swallows were seen entering a cavity in a concrete/cinder block barn wall on June 5, just north of Russell Springs, Russell County (MS) and recently fledged young were noted in western Pulaski County on July 12 (MS). Three recently fledged young were being fed by adult in Knox County, July 12 (MS). Bank Swallows were again present at gravel pits near Belleview and Petersburg, Boone County (LMc); several birds were seen along the Ohio River at the old U.S. Lock and Dam Number 50 and at McKinley Island on June 26 and 27 (BPB). Cliff Swallows continue to expand their breeding range in Kentucky. Small groups were found nesting at three locations in Russell County and one in Taylor County — new county breed¬ ing records (MS). Other new county breeding records included a colony under the Kentucky 1855 bridge over Walnut Creek, Barren River Lake, Allen County, and a few birds present at the old US-31 E bridge over Trammel Creek, southern Allen County on July 10 (BPB) ; and near a bridge that crosses into Hart County (HC). Good numbers were also found in the following counties: Adair, Casey (MS), Lyon, Trigg, Lyon/ Livingston (BPB), Boone (LMc), Grayson (KC, RH). Also, a single bird was noted in Green County on June 12 (MS) and an immature in Pulaski County on July 22 where there are no known nests (JE1). A fair number of Fish Crows were present: four were seen at Obion Creek in the vicinity of Murphy’s Pond, Hickman County on June 4 (CP) ; a pair noted along Mud Creek at Kentucky 94, Fulton County on June 13-14 (BPB) ; one heard along the Mississippi River levee, SW of Hickman on June 14 (BPB) ; nine birds observed near Mayfield bottoms, Carlisle County and six at BWMA on June 28 (CP). This year there seemed to be “a great increase in numbers away from the big rivers” (CP). Also, on June 28 a single bird was heard along Mayfield Creek near Blandville, Ballard County and another flying in northern Carlisle County WSW of Lovelaceville (BPB). Wrens through Shrikes — On 10 trips in different parts of Hopkins County during June a total of 85 Carolina Wrens was tabulated (JH). It was encouraging that Bewick’s Wrens were found in nine counties! Two singing birds were seen in Pendleton County on June 5 and another heard in Owen County on June 12 (LMc) ; family groups were found near Sherwood Shores on Kentucky Lake S of Kentucky Dam Village, Marshall County on June 12 (with three or four nearly grown young), just east of McGowan, Caldwell County on June 20 (with young unable to fly), one mile NW of Union Hill, Trigg County on June 22, and within several square miles in Lyon County on June 23 (three family groups of nearly full-grown young with parents), all by BPB; one bird observed in southern Washington County on July 5 (RH); an adult was feeding young inside a barn near Marcus, Pendleton County, on July 14 (LMc); another near Willisburg, Washington County on July 27 (RH) ; and one bird southwest of McBrayer, Anderson County on July 26 (RH). Also, singing birds were reported in Washington County during June and one heard just south of Lebanon in Marion County (FL, WK). Several singing House Wrens were heard in Fredonia on June 24 (BPB) and observed along the Ohio River at Mc¬ Kinley Island on June 27 and singing males heard in Tompkinsville, Monroe County on July 12 (BPB). Several additional singing birds were noted in Corbin, Knox County, on June 24 (MS). Eastern Bluebirds did very well in Hopkins County (JH), central (FL) and south-central Kentucky (MS). FK put up 24 bluebird boxes in Oldham County and of this number 20 boxes contained at least two broods each. Only 13 Wood Thrushes were 90 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 recorded on the 10 trips in Hopkins County (JH). The species has de¬ creased in some sections of Jefferson County (S). Only eight Gray Catbirds were tabulated on the 10 June trips in Hopkins County (JH); numbers were very low in the Louisville area (S) and at BPS (KC). Cedar Wax- wings were widespread during June 8-July 12: nest in Christian County, courtship observed in Allen and Christian counties, and recently fledged young barely able to fly were seen near Exie, Green County (BPB). Pairs were noted during the breeding season in the following counties: Barren, Carlisle, Crittenden, Fulton, Graves (BPB), Grayson, (KC), Hart, Hick¬ man, Livingston, Marshall, Monroe and Trigg, while single birds were recorded in Caldwell and McCracken counties (BPB). Good numbers of Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from central Kentucky (JF, MF), south- central (MS), and western sections of the state (BPB). Interesting breed¬ ing records include the following: an adult bird feeding young near Clay Village, Shelby County on June 8 (MS), adult feeding young in Adair County on June 13 (MS), and fledged young observed in central Kentucky (no county listed — MF). Pairs were recorded north of Russell Springs, Russell County on June 5 and north of Cane Valley, Adair County on June 14 (MS). Single birds were also recorded in early to mid-June in the coun¬ ties of Adair, Marion and Taylor (MS), while on July 8 one was seen near Short Creek and another on Hwy. 79 on July 19, both in Grayson County (KC). Four birds were also noted in Hopkins County (JH). Also, during BBA work in the Jackson Purchase and Pennyroyal regions shrikes were found on 45 of the 58 blocks surveyed with “confirmed nesting in many” (BPB). Vireos through Warblers — A pair of Bell’s Vireo with an unused nest was found about two miles SSE of Weston, northern Crittenden County on June 26 (BPB). On July 15 the nest contained one young vireo and one young cowbird (BPB, LR). This represents a new county breeding record for the species. Twenty-six White-eyed Vireos were counted on the ten June trips in Hopkins County (JH). Quite unusual was the finding of a Solitary Vireo at Pennyroyal State Forest, northwestern Christian County on June 19. The male was singing and when the observer squeaked, another (presumed to be the female) appeared, although no evidence of nesting was observed (BPB). On a later visit July 15, the male was still present, singing in trees nearby (BPB, LR). At least two singing male Solitary Vireos were recorded at Pine Mountain State Park, June 9 and 26, and another singing male was in Knox County at an elevation of about 1160 feet on June 27 (MS). During ten June trips in Hopkins County eight Yellow-throated Vireos were recorded (JH). Warbling Vireos were present in low numbers: “not very common in BBA region 7” (MS); singing birds were found in Green, Metcalfe and Rockcastle counties (MS) ; three birds in Nelson County on June 3 (KC, AW) ; only four on ten June trips in Hopkins County (JH); and none found in Seneca Park, Louisville where they formerly nested (S). Several family groups of the Blue-winged Warbler were seen in northern LBL, Lyon County on June 12 and fledged young and adults were seen carrying food in southern Trigg County along Dry Creek on June 22 (BPB). An unusually early nest of the Yellow Warbler was found, with the bird on the nest, north of Carrollton, Carroll County on April 27 (LMc). A male Yellow Warbler appeared to be terri¬ torial at Hickman Ferry Landing, Fulton County on June 13 and a bird carrying food was seen along Dry Creek in southern Trigg County on June 22 (BPB). The Yellow Warbler was found to be “very local” in central and western Kentucky during BBA work (BPB). Single singing 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 91 Northern Parulas were heard in Casey County on June 18 and in western Cumberland County on June 20 (MS). A single Black-throated Blue War¬ bler at McKinneysburg, Pendleton County on June 9 was late in departing (LMc). The Yellow-throated Warbler is no longer found in some sections in Hopkins County where it formerly was observed (JH) ; one bird heard singing along Hwy. 1069, Hopkins County on June 19 (JH) ; and an adult was seen carrying food south of Fountain Run, Monroe County on July 11 (BPB). Good numbers of Pine Warblers were reported, with some new county breeding or summer records. The birds were fairly numerous in planted pines in Pennyroyal State Forest, northern Christian County on June 19 and a female was noted feeding a fledgling in the same county NE of Crofton on June 18 (BPB). Other interesting records included: singing- birds in Madisonville, Hopkins County on June 2, 26 and 27 ( JH ) ; juvenile male in song near Roseburg, Hart County on July 9 and another NW of Pilot Oak, Fulton County in early June, both new county summer records (BPB) ; single birds heard singing several miles WNW of Milburn, Car¬ lisle County on June 7, also NE of Pryorsburg, Graves County on June 9 and the species was widespread in planted pines in northern LBL, Lyon County on June 12 (BPB). A noteworthy record was established when a singing Pine Warbler was heard in western Adair County on June 13 for a new county summer record (MS). Also, two singing birds were observed at Pine Grove, Casey County (FL, WK). As usual, Pine Warblers were fairly common in appropriate habitat in the Cumberland plateau counties which were visited during the period (MS). Cerulean Warblers have de¬ clined in recent years and reports were few. A singing bird was heard in extreme southeastern Adair County on June 19 (MS) ; at least two singing- males and female carrying food noted in northern LBL near Fulton Bay, Lyon County on June 12 (BPB); a pair and probably full-grown young- near Dryden Estates E of Lake Barkley in southern Lyon County on June 23, and a male and juvenile bird were seen near Concord Church, southern Allen County on July 10 (BPB); and two female individuals at separate locations, plus a singing male, in Knox County on June 27 (MS). BBA work gives further evidence that the Cerulean Warbler is now very local and quite rare in central and western Kentucky. A male Black-and-white Warbler was evidently off territory when it was seen feeding in a hedge row, Wayne County, southeast of Lake Cumberland on July 19 (MS). Two interesting records of the Prothonotary Warbler were received: birds heard singing at McKinneysburg on the Licking River, Pendleton County on June 9 (LMc) ; and at least two singing males in Adair County along the Green River where it is crossed by Route 206 on June 21 (MS). A good number of Worm-eating Warblers were found in the following counties: singing birds in Adair (two locations), Christian (two locations), Lyon, Laurel and Russell; fledged young with parents in Caldwell, Critten¬ den, Lyon and Trigg. Recently fledged Ovenbirds were seen in northern Christian County on June 19, and singing birds were noted in Caldwell and Trigg counties on June 19 and June 22, respectively (BPB). Two nests of the Louisiana Waterthrush were found: one with young in western Lyon County on June 10 and one with young on tributary to Butler Creek, about one and one-half miles SW of Corley Hill, Crittenden County, June 25 (BPB). Also, two birds were observed at Lock Mary, Hopkins County on June 20 (JH) ; and one flushed at Pine Knob, Grayson County, near a creek, July 25 (KC). Seventeen Kentucky Warblers were recorded on the ten June trips in various sections of Hopkins County, most common south of Clear Creek (JH). Five birds were seen in Nelson County on June 3 92 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 (KC, AW ) ; and a family group of nearly-fledged young noted near Sulphur Lick, northern Monroe County on July 7 (BPB). The Common Yellow- throat is apparently doing well in Hopkins County because 79 birds were counted on ten June trips (JH). Young Hooded Warblers unable to fly were seen about three miles SE of Cedar Springs, Allen County on July 5 (BPB). A few interesting records of singing Hooded Warblers were found in Christian, Hart and Trigg counties June 18-22, where the species is less common than in eastern Kentucky (BPB). An agitated pair was also ob¬ served in southern Lyon County, east of Lake Barkley on June 23, and only two singing males were found in one place in northern LBL, Lyon County, June 12 (BPB). On June 3 in Hardin County one Yellow-breasted Chat was seen, but 16 were noted in Nelson County (KC, AW). Although the chat has disappeared from some areas in Hopkins County, it is doing well in others (JH). Tanagers through Sparrows — The only mention of Summer Tanagers was the 20 birds recorded on the ten June trips taken in Hopkins County (JH). An interesting find was the adult Scarlet Tanager feeding young in a nest at Boone Cliffs Nature Preserve, Boone County on June 14 (LMc). Five Scarlet Tanagers were present during June in Hopkins County (JH). The Blue Grosbeak continues to expand its summer range in the state and was found at three locations in Pendleton County: a pair near Marcus on June 5 and 9, singing males at Marcus July 14, and at McKinneysburg on the same date (LMc). Other sightings included six birds at six locations in Hopkins County (JH), single birds in Nelson and Ohio counties on June 3 and July 8, respectively (KC et al.) and birds still singing in rural Murray, Calloway County on July 29 (MM). Indigo Buntings were still very common as “roadside dwellers” and 124 birds were recorded on ten June trips in Hopkins County (JH). Dickcissels were common on the PHSM area in southern Ohio County during the period with perhaps 50 observed (KC), while only two or three pairs were noted at Masterson Station Park, Fayette County on June 2 (MF, JF) ; several observed near Napoleon, Gallatin County on June 2 (LMc) ; others south of Glencoe, Owen County on June 4, and at Greater Cincinnati Airport on June 16, Boone County (LMc). Two different adult Grasshopper Sparrows were seen feed¬ ing young plus others singing on strip-mined areas in Laurel County, south east of London on June 26 (MS). Although present throughout the summer in more typical habitat in BBA region 7, it was never abundant (MS). There were a few interesting records of Henslow’s Sparrows this summer: one bird singing in field on the Hopewell Road area, Ohio County on July 8 (KC) ; several at Masterson Station Park on June 2 (JF, MF) ; one bird singing in a hayfield north of Claylick Creek, about two and one-half miles SW of Marion, Crittenden County on June 25 (BPB) ; and another about two and one-half miles NW of Summer Shade, Metcalfe County on July 6 (BPB). Song Sparrows were seen along Mud Creek, west of Cayee, Ful¬ ton County on June 13 and several at the Hickman Ferry Landing on June 13-14 (BPB), thus extending its summer range south and west in the state. Bobolinks through Finches — Fifteen to 18 pairs of Bobolinks were observed at Masterson Station Park on June 2, but only a few heard there on June 28 (MF, JF). A nest of the Orchard Oriole was found with young birds at East Bend on July 4 (LMc) ; two present at BPS until late July (KC). The species may be declining in some sections of the state, only six birds were recorded on ten June trips in various sections of Hop¬ kins County (JH), and fewer were found in the Louisville parks than 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 93 formerly (S). The only nest of the Northern Oriole reported was one with an incubating bird located north of Marcus, June 5 (LMc). A fledgling Brown-headed Cowbird was being fed by an adult Common Yellowthroat, east of Corbin, Knox County on June 24 (MS). The House Finch was widely distributed and continued to move westward in the state. The species was found most commonly near towns in south-central Kentucky (MS); nests were seen in Burlington in April and July (LMc) ; singing birds were heard in the counties of Allen, Ballard, Caldwell, Carlisle, Christian, Crit¬ tenden, Fulton and Hickman (BPB) ; and several were in Corbin, June 24 and near London, Laurel County on June 26 (MS). American Goldfinches are known to be late nesters and the flock of 30 found in a patch of thistle in Hart County on July 3 was not unusual (BPB). Contributors — Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Wally Brines (WB), Mike Burns (MB), Hap Chambers (HCh), Kathryn Clay (KC), Herbert L. Clay, Jr. (HC), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Blaine Ferrell (BF), Jean Flynn (JF ), Michael Flynn ( MF ), James W. Hancock (JH ), Richard Healy (R*H), William Kemper (WK), Frank X. Krull (FK), Frederick Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), C. M. Stinson (MS), Alita Wilson (AW), David Yancy (DY). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241, and P.O. Box 23447, Anchorage 40223. REPORT OF THE TREASURER FISCAL YEAR 1989-1990 GENERAL FUND Bank Balance as of September 28, 1989 $ 3,188.89 Receipts Membership Dues Interest Income: $2,649.00 Endowment Fund Wilson Fund $346.49 84.28 430.77 Meetings : Fall, 1989 Spring, 1990 118.00 150.00 268.00 Sale of Annotated Checklist Sale of Warblers 911.37 41.75 55.21 21.65 11.93 68.82 Sale of Checklists, Patches, etc. Transfer from Wilson Fund- — Postage Transfer from Wilson Fund- — Sales Tax Miscellaneous Income Income Adjustment 1989 15.00 4,473.50 7,662.39 94 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Disbursements Printing Costs (Warbler) — 4 issues 2,725.35 Envelopes — Mailing Warbler 146.50 Postage — Mailing Warblers, Notices, etc 389.95 K.O.S. Stationery 112.55 Corporate Filing Fee 12.00 Corporate Reinstatement Fee 8.00 Treasurer’s Expense 24.21 Fall Meeting 36.00 Spring Meeting 221.13 Supplies . 14.69 Kentucky Sales Tax 11.93 Rental Fee — Safety Deposit Box 25.00 Postage for Mailing — “Annotated Checklist” 21.65 Transfer of Sale of “Annotated Checklist” to Wilson Fund 911.07 Transfer of Interest to Wilson Fund 84.28 Tiansfer of Life Memberships (6) to Endowment Fund 450.00 Beckham Bird Club — Membership Dues 2.00 Miscellaneous Expenses 56.84 5,253.15 Bank Balance as of September 26, 1990 First National Bank, Louisville, Kentucky $ 2,394.24 ENDOWMENT FUND Balance in Savings Account, September 28, 1989 Certificates of Deposit (4) Receipts Interest on Savings Account Interest on Certificates of Deposit Life Memberships (6) Disbursements Transfer of Interest on Certificates of Deposit to the General Fund $ 2,445.98 4,500.00 179.91 346.49 450.00 976.40 $ 7,922.38 346.49 Balance in Fund, September 26, 1990 7,575.89 GORDON WILSON FUND Balance in Savings Account, September 28, 1989 Certificates of Deposit (2) Receipts Interest on Savings Account $ Interest on Certificates of Deposit Sale of “Annotated Checklists” 167.52 84.28 911.37 3,237.82 2,000.00 1,163.17 $ 6,400.99 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 95 Disbursements Transfer of Postage to General Fund 21.65 Balance in Fund, September 26, 1990 $ 6,379.34 BALANCE SHEET Assets: As of September 28, 1990 Cash — General Fund Endowment Fund Wilson Fund $ 2,469.24 7,575.89 6,400.99 TOTAL $16,386.12 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY FALL MEETING September 28-30, 1990 The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its 67th annual Fall Meeting at Kenlake State Resort Park on September 28-30, 1990. Virginia Kingsolver began the Friday evening session with a welcome to those in attendance. Clell Peterson described the birding conditions at the Land Between the Lakes and field trips were outlined. Lee McNeely introduced the evening speakers. Dennis Sharp, naturalist with the Land Between the Lakes informed the group of the nesting success of Bald Eagles and Ospreys in the Land Between the Lakes. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. gave an update on the Breeding Bird Atlas project and provided enter¬ tainment with a quiz on bird identification using birds killed at a TV tower. Lee finished the program with a slide show and photo quiz. The Kingsolvers hosted a social hour in their lodge room following the Friday program. The weather for the Saturday field trips was very pleasant. Lee McNeely led one group to Jonathan Creek, Silo Overlook and Hematite Lake areas and Clell Peterson started another group out at the R.C. Manchester Boy Scout Area. The Board of Directors met in the lodge at 3:30 p.m. The Saturday evening program was held in the lodge meeting room beginning at 7 :30 p.m. following a buffet dinner in the lodge restaurant. Fred Busroe led in compiling the day’s bird list, which totalled 119 species. The nominating committee presented the following slate of officers for the coming year: President — Virginia Kingsolver, Vice-President — Lee McNeely, Corresponding Secretary-Treasurer — Dona Coats, Recording Secretary — Fred Busroe, and new Councillors — Dennis Sandlin and Thomas Stevenson. Brad Andres presented an excellent program on “Alaska: Glacier Bay to Harrison Bay.” Several groups organized field trips on Sunday and added 15 species, bringing the meeting total to 134 species. Total registrations for the Fall Meeting were 72. 96 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 ATTENDANCE AT THE FALL MEETING, 1990 ANCHORAGE: Dr. and Mrs. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. BEAVER DAM: Charlotte Moseley, Mary Moseley BENTON: Julia Wooldridge BEREA: Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Ricketts BOWLING GREEN: Dr. and Mrs. Blaine Ferrell, Mr. and Mrs. Don Freeman, Mr. and Mrs. William Mathes, Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Shadowen BUCKHORN: Eileen Sandlin BURLINGTON: Mr. and Mrs. Lee McNeely, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stephens CALVERT CITY : Mr. and Mrs. Henry Leeky, Gertrude Milton CARLISLE: Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Kingsolver COX’S CREEK: Mr. and Mrs. Roger Coates CRITTENDEN: Mr. and Mrs. Joe Caminiti CYNTHIANA: Mr. and Mrs. William Wigglesworth HAZARD: Mr. Dennis Sandlin LEXINGTON: Mr. and Mrs. James M. Williams LOUISVILLE: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Blackwell, Richard Cassell, Dr. and Mrs. Herbert L. Clay, Jr., Stephen Figg, Timothy Love, Mr. and Mrs. James MeCammon, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Donald Parker, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pike, Mr. and Mrs. F. P. Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick W. Stamm, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stinson, Donald Summerfield. MACEO: Mr. and Mrs. Bert Powell MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe MURRAY: Dr. Clell Peterson NEW CONCORD: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Sherwood OWENSBORO: Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Thompson, Mr. and Mrs. L. E. Wilson PADUCAH: Gene Boaz, Bernice Caddell STANLEY : Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Stevenson COLUMBUS, OHIO: Mr. and Mrs. Brad Andres DYERSBURG, TENNESSEE: Kenneth Leggett ESSEX, ENGLAND: Frank Bender BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE ANNUAL SPRING MEETING, 1990 Birds observed on Saturday field trips within a 15-mile diameter circle centered at Kenlake State Resort Park included: Pied-billed Grebe, Double- crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Green-backed Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Green-winged Teal, American Black Duck, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Blue-winged Teal, American Wigeon, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Peregrine Fal¬ con, Wild Turkey, Black-bellied Plover, Killdeer, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 97 Yellowlegs, Sanderling, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Western Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Dowitcher sp., Common Snipe, Laughing Gull, Franklin’s Gull, Ring-billed Gull, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Caspian Tern, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Common Nighthawk, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Humming¬ bird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Empidonax sp., Eastern Phoebe, Eastern Kingbird, Tree Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Caro¬ lina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Sedge Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Blue¬ bird, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, European Star¬ ling, White-eyed Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Palm Warbler, Bay¬ breasted Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Ovenbird, Common Yellowthroat, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardi¬ nal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, Chip¬ ping Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Eastern Meadowlark, Com¬ mon Graekle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Northern Oriole, American Goldfinch and House Sparrow for a total of 119 species. Additional species observed on Sunday field trips were Great Egret, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Ring¬ necked Duck, Cooper’s Hawk, Sora, American Coot, Semipalmated Plover, Spotted Sandpiper, Buff-breasted Sandpiper (late Kentucky date if docu¬ mented), Short-billed Dowitcher, Marsh Wren, Loggerhead Shrike, Swamp Sparrow and Red-winged Blackbird, bringing the weekend total to 134 species. FIELD NOTES TOWER MORTALITY IN HENDERSON COUNTY On September 21, 1990, the authors checked a television tower in downtown Henderson, Henderson County and identified 128 individual birds of 20 species that had died as a result of striking the tower and its guy wires during nocturnal migration. All specimens were in fresh condition, apparently having been killed during the previous night of September 20-21. A list of species and number of individuals follows. Gray Catbird 1 Bay-breasted Warbler 10 Philadelphia Vireo 1 Blackpoll Warbler 1 Red-eyed Vireo 5 Black-and-white Warbler 7 Tennessee Warbler 26 American Redstart 2 Nashville Warbler 1 Ovenbird 35 Magnolia Warbler 15 Northern Waterthrush 1 Cape May Warbler 1 Common Yellowthroat 3 Black-throated Green Warbler 2 Scarlet Tanager 1 Blackburnian Warbler 1 Rose-breasted Grosbeak 1 Palm Warbler 13 Dickcissel 1 98 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 Of the 128 individuals identified, three were of particular interest. Both Cape May and Blaekpoll warblers are relatively rare fall migrants in Kentucky, especially the latter, of which there are only a handful of well-documented fall records for the state. The Cape May Warbler is far more regular in eastern Kentucky in fall than in the west. The Dickcissel is unusual in that most birds depart the breeding grounds early and are not often encountered after the completion of nesting in summer. Interest¬ ingly, on the same day no birds could be found under a TV tower located approximately three miles northeast of this one. — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, 40222, and LENE RAUTH, 106 East Maple Court, Clarksville, Indiana 47130. “SPOTTED” TOWHEE IN KENTUCKY On December 31, 1989, while participating on the Otter Creek Christmas Bird Count, we found a male “Spotted” Towhee (Pipilo erythropthalmus [montanus] ), near the junction of Pack Lane with KY 1238 northeast of Garrett in rural Meade County. As is typical in individuals of this western race of our common Rufous-sided Towhee (P. e. erythropthalmus), the bird’s back was profusely streaked with white, accounting for its name. In addition to the light edgings to some of the primaries and tertials, the greater and median primary coverts were tipped with white, forming two distinct white wing bars. The scapulars were likewise broadly tipped in white. Streaks on the back were largest and most profuse along the sides of the back and smaller in the middle. Some white streaks were edged with buff. On one occasion the Spotted Towhee gave a rather raspy call note, quite unlike the distinctive ’che-wink’ so characteristic of the eastern race. Other than the above-noted markings, the Spotted Towhee appeared to be identical in size and plumage to normal eastern males. The eye was not detectably different in color, being a deep reddish-brown. The Spotted Towhee remained in the immediate vicinity for over a month, and fed frequently with other songbirds on cracked corn scattered on the ground in the area. The Spotted Towhee was always associated with a flock of 6-12 Rufous-sided Towhees, but it was often the last to move from one feeding area to another and was sometimes chased by the eastern birds. The Spotted Towhee was observed weekly through the month of January and last seen on February 4, 1990. It is probable that the bird remained through the winter. Photographs clearly showing all markings were obtained on several dates in January. Mengel (Birds of Kentucky, pp. 476-478) makes no mention of the western race of the Rufous-sided Towhee occurring in Kentucky and Mon¬ roe (Birds of the Louisville Region, KW 52:62, 1976) states that “all Ken¬ tucky records pertain to the “Eastern Towhee” group (erythropthalmus).” Thus it would appear that this record represents the first documented oc¬ currence of the Spotted Towhee in Kentucky. Interestingly, the taxonomic distinctness of the eastern and western forms is a topic currently under investigation, and it is possible that the eastern and western forms may someday be split into separate species. As a note of curiosity, it seems worthy of mention that the site of this observation was the exact locality where the Mountain Bluebird was ob¬ served during the winter of 1984-85 ! 1990 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 99 — BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville 40222 and RICHARD CASSELL, 4004 Poplar Level Road, Louisville 40213. FIRST RECORD OF NESTING NORTHERN HARRIERS IN HART COUNTY, KENTUCKY On June 5th, 1990 Dr. Clay and I received a report that there was a mature Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) at Nolin Lake in Grayson County. Our source also told us that there was a possibility that an eagle’s nest might be on a farm in nearby Hart County. On June 8th we decided to locate the farm and talk to the owner about an eagle’s nest. He had no knowledge of this rumor but, as we discussed this with him, we watched a male Northern Harrier and a female Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) circling the hills and fields on the farm. On June 10th, with the owner’s permission, we drove into his field which had been recently cut. We watched for a few minutes and suddenly a female Harrier, carrying a mouse, appeared 300 yds. from us and dropped her prey into the grass. We felt that there was either a nest there or a young bird was being fed. We started walking toward the site where the prey was dropped and when we were almost at the crest of the hill the female Harrier swooped down at us protesting and missing us by a few inches! She hovered over us, menacingly, determined to make us leave. We left the area so we would not further interrupt their feeding schedule. On June 11th we went back to the farm near Cub Run, Kentucky and observed, at 7 :30 p.m. E.S.T., the male Harrier drop a mouse in a tall grassy field which paralleled the short grassy field. Since the female Harrier was perched on the ground in the short grassy field we could now account for three Harriers. On June 12th we walked the entire hay field and also inspected the tall grassy field with no success in locating the nest. However, we were continually harrassed by both Harriers. The attacks became less serious and was reduced to protesting and circling over us. On July 2nd, at 11:30 a.m. E.S.T., we watched the male Harrier drop a mouse to a young Harrier. The male had called from quite a distance before he arrived at the drop site. The young Harrier responded by becom¬ ing very alert, quickly rising from the ground, catching the prey in mid¬ air, taking it to the ground where the prey was quickly devoured. Our observations of the plumage of the feeding young hawk was that it was quite dark above with a reddish (or rufous) half circle line over and under its eye giving it an owl-like appearance. Its chest was slightly streaked but had more rufous than the adult female. On July 3rd we returned to the area and watched two young hawks “playing around” alternately soaring and perching. While two hawks perched in trees there was one young hawk that remained on the ground. We were then delighted to see, soaring in the distance, the adult male and female of the Northern Harrier. At last we had the five Harriers together! In conclusion, although we did not find the nest of these birds we feel that they definitely nested there and successfully raised three young Harriers in the hilly terrain of Hart County. — KATHRYN and HERBERT CLAY, 434 Mallard Creek Road, Louisville 40207. 100 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 66 NEWS AND VIEWS MID-WINTER BIRD COUNTS Those members who have participated in the Mid-winter Bird Counts in previous years should have received count forms for this year’s count. The counts should be conducted between December 15 and January 2. If you are interested in conducting a count and would like additional in¬ formation, please contact the editor. MOVING? If you are moving, please notify the Corresponding Secretary-Treasurer in order that the mailing of The Kentucky Warbler may be carried out expeditiously. Thank you. fhe Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 67 FEBRUARY, 1991 NO. 1 IN THIS ISSUE THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1990, Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. 3 THE MID-WINTER BIRD COUNTS 10 FIELD NOTES 22 NEWS AND VIEWS 23 2 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L. Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson President Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Vice-President Lee McNeely, Burlington Corr. Sec.-Treasurer Dona Coates Rt. #1, Box 124, Cox’s Creek, Kentucky 40013 Recording Secretary Councillors: Clell Peterson, Murray Bert Powell, Maceo Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Thomas Stevenson, Stanley Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist Fred Busroe, Morehead 1990-1992 1990- 1992 i 1991- 1993 1991-1993 Jim Williams, Lexington Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Ray Harm, our staff artist, for this excellent painting of Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo). 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 THE FALL MIGRATION SEASON, 1990 Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. The weather in August and September was generally quite warm and temperatures averaged slightly above normal, while precipitation, especially in September, was below normal. October and November were warm months all across the state. It was the warmest November 27th ever in Louisville, five degrees above the previous high set in 1927, according to the National Weather Service. High temperature records were not only broken in Louis¬ ville, but in Paducah — 78, breaking a 25-year old record by three degrees; and Lexington — 76, breaking a 69-year old record by four degrees. Warm weather and more birders in the field produced a number of late departure dates. Waterfowl migration was delayed somewhat. The great flocks of ducks and geese did not arrive in western Kentucky until after December 1, according to Charles Wilkins, director of BWMA in Ballard County. Some species of sparrows were also late in arriving from the north. Some of the rarer species encountered this fall included the Red- throated Loon, the ninth state record, White Ibis, American Avocets, Lesser Black-backed Gull and the Peregrine Falcon. Abbreviations — BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; Duck Island WMA = Duck Island Wildlife Management Area on Lake Barkley, Trigg County; KOS = Kentucky Ornithological Society; LP = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; PHSM = Peabody Homestead Surface Mine, Ohio County; SWMA = Sauerheber Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County. Loons through Cormorants — Common Loons appeared in five coun¬ ties: Jefferson, Hopkins, Taylor, Clinton and Cumberland with the greatest number in the latter two counties. Quite unexpected was the sighting of a Red-throated Loon at Towhead Island, Jefferson County on November 24- 29 (JB, PB, et at.). Pied-billed Grebes were first noted on Lake Pewee, Hopkins County, with six birds on September 15 (JH), the number increas¬ ing to 25 on October 28 (BPB, LR, DC) and 24 on November 20 (JH) ; one to two birds at normal locations. Horned Grebes were scarce with only one to five being reported. Double-crested Cormorants were first observed at Shippingport Island (2 birds) perched in trees (LR) ; birds widely dis¬ tributed (m.ob. ) with the greatest number 170 at LBL Barkley Lake by (CP). Herons through Ibises — Although many Great Blue Herons were ob¬ served at Fish Pond, five miles west of Hickman, Fulton County on August 3 (BM, MM), they were widely scattered and few in number until late in September (CP) when they became more numerous, e.g., 24 were present at Lake Pewee, Hopkins County on October 12 and November 10 (JH) and 10 at LBL on October 6 (JB, PB). One to two Great Egrets were present in seven counties: Boone, Carroll, Hopkins, Jefferson, Mar¬ shall, Ohio and Pulaski (m. ob.) ; but many at Fish Pond (BM, MM) and 140+ at Lake #9, Fulton County on August 3 and September 29, respec¬ tively, with one lingering in the vicinity of Cool Springs Lake on the Pea¬ body Ken Mine, Ohio County on October 28 (BPB) and one at Jonathan Creek, Marshall County on October 20 (MMi, CP). Few Snowy Egrets were repo ted: two at Fish Pond on August 3 (BM, MM), four at Lake 4 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 #9 still present on September 29 (BPB) and one at Jonathan Creek un¬ usually late on October 20 (MMi, CP). The latter two dates established late state dates for the species. Many Little Blue Herons, both adults and immatures, were noted at Fish Pond on August 3 (BM, MM) while single immatures were seen at SWMA, Henderson County on August 5 (LR) ; and at Lick Creek, Boone County on August 7 (LMc) ; two immatures were still along the Mississippi River in western Fulton County on September 29 (BPB, DP). The largest group of Cattle Egrets reported totaled 67 ! at Mayfield Creek, Carlisle County on August 28 (CP) and noteworthy ; was the record of 20-30 feeding with cattle several miles west of Danville, Boyle County before mid-September (fide FL) ; three birds were observed . at the Falls of the Ohio on August 29 (LR). Only small numbers of Black- : crowned Night-Herons were reported with six birds as the high number at McAlpine Dam, Louisville, Jefferson County on September 25 (LR) and last observed there on October 12. Two Yellow-crowned Night-Herons were present at SWMA on August 5 (LR) and an adult and an immature at the Falls of the Ohio on September 8 (LR). A single immature White Ibis 1 was present at Larue County Sportsman Club Lake on September 12 (JE1) | and a photo was made on September 14 (DP). A bird alert went out and others got to see the bird. Waterfowl — Waterfowl migration was later than usual. At BWMA Canada Geese only totaled 75-100 by September 19, but by the end of November only 5,000 had arrived (CW) ; of this number 60% were adults and 40% juveniles. On October 13 a family of Greater White-fronted Geese (2 ad. and 2 imm.) was seen at SWMA (BBC). Only small numbers of Snow Geese were reported: four adult birds at SWMA on September 22 (BPB, LR) ; two adults on Cool Springs Lake, Ohio County on October 23 (BPB, L. McNeil) ; and one at LBL — Hematite Lake ( fide Rick Hoken). Ducks returned later than noimal and numbers were low. The duck popu¬ lation at BWMA at the end of November was 800 to 1,000, but by December 12 some 8,000 to 10,000 had arrived, according to Charles Wilkins. The majority of ducks were Mallards and Blacks. No diving ducks had returned to the Danville area by November 23 (FL). The largest number of Wood Ducks reported was 100 at LBL on October 16 (JB, PB). Green-winged Teal were reported from six locations with high counts of about 75 at SWMA on October 13 (BBC), 69 at Jonathan Creek on November 7 (CP) and 15 at Thurston’s Pond, Wayne County near Montieello (JE1). The peak count of American Black Ducks was 50 at LBL on November 30 (CP) and 25 at Thurston’s Pond on November 28 (JE1). A flock of 137 Mallards had reached the Falls of the Ohio by August 22 (LR) ; and although not widely reported, some 50+ were present at Beargrass Creek, Seneca Park, Louisville on October 14 (S, FS), a similar number at Thurston’s Pond on November 28 (JE1), but 200 at LBL — Honker Lake on November 23 (CP). Both Northern Pintails and Northern Shovelers were in low numbers while Blue-winged Teal were in slighty better figures with a high count of 200 + at SWMA on October 13 (BBC trip); and about 30 at Jonathan Creek on September 14 (CP) and 29 (BPB). Gadwall first appeared at Duck Island WMA, Trigg County on September 30 with 35 birds (BPB, DP, KCa, JCa) ; a few at Lake Pewee on October 13 (JH), numbers increased and more than 200 were seen in the vicinity of Fort Heiman, Calloway County and 60 at Honker Lake — LBL on October 24 (CP). American Wigeon were reported in low numbers except at Honker Lake — LBL where a peak of 400 was noted on October 31 (CP). Canvasbacks were scarce and only reported from two locations: 34 birds at Lake Pewee (highest count there) on November 10 (JH) and only a few on the Ohio River at Louisville by I \ 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLEH 5 late November (BPB). Ring-necked Ducks staged a good showing particu¬ larly at Lake Pewee with high counts of 380 and 439 on November 16 and 26, respectively (JH) ; 80 was the count on the BBC field trip in Louisville along the Ohio River on November 10 (JP). A female Greater Scaup was noted at LP on October 28 (BPB, LR). No large flocks of Lesser Scaup were noted. Two females or immature Black Scoters, rare fall transients here, were seen at LP on October 28 (BPB, LR), and an adult male at Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County, on October 23 (Lewis Kornman, Fred Busroe, Dan Brewer, Mike Hearn et al.) . The male scoter was photographed by Lewis Kornman. A single immature Surf Scoter was also noted at Lake Nevin, Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County on November 10 ( BM ) . Buffle- heads were common in pairs at various sites in western Kentucky on October 24 and were early by four days, providing an early state date (CP). At Lake Barkley ± 75 Hooded Mergansers were observed on November 7 (CP) ; some 40 birds at Thurston’s Pond on November 28 (JE1) and 10-12 at LP on November 11 (BPB et al.), and “small numbers” were present at Camp Ernst Lake, near Burlington, Boone County from October 30- November 20 (LMc). The only Red-breasted Merganser reported was one at the Mayfair Basin, Louisville on November 10 (JP, BBC). Hawks — No great hawk flights were observed. A flock of 38 Black Vultures was observed at the Kentucky Utilities Power Plant, Carroll County on November 24 (KCa, JCa). A large flock of 100 vultures was also noted at the above site on October 28 with over 70 being Turkey Vultures and the rest Blacks (LMc, KCa, JCa, TS) ; 26 Blacks at Fishing Creek Recreational Area, Pulaski County, October 10 (JE1) and smaller numbers elsewhere. Turkey Vultures were evidently migrating on November 21 when 95 + were seen over BPS, Grayson County (KC). A flock of 21 birds was perched on a tower adjacent to Long Run County Park, Jefferson County on November 2 (S, FS). Two migrant Ospreys were seen flying below McAlpine Dam on August 24 and last observed there on October 12 (LR) ; singles also noted at Fishing Creek Recreational Area (JE1), Rabbit Hash, along the Ohio River, Boone County (LMc), Lake Pewee (JH), LBL (JB, PB), and Green River Lake State Park, Taylor County (JE1). The latest Osprey remained through November 16 at LP (JH). A full adult Bald Eagle was seen attending a begging immature at BWMA on August 31 and an additional immature bird several miles away (BM, MM). An¬ other immature was seen at LP on October 28 (BPB, LR) ; five (3 ad., 2 imm.) in the vicinity of Dale Hollow Lake, Cumberland County (RS, FSt) ; and an adult at Waitsboro Recreational Area, Pulaski County on November 28 (JE1). A migrant flock of 19 Mississippi Kites in groups of 3-8, all adults, was noted at BWMA on August 3 and one flock of 10 adults at Wickliffe, Ballard County also observed on the same date (BM, MM). Single female Northern Harriers were seen in Ohio (BM, MM) and Breckin¬ ridge (KC) counties on August 3 and 25, respectively, while the majority of the birds arrived in September and October, with the greatest number • — 35 — in Ohio County on November 17 (KC, BBC). The species appeared in five counties: Breckinridge (KC), Hart (KC), Jefferson (PB), Muhlen¬ berg (BPB, LR, DC), and Ohio (BE, TE, KC). No Broad-winged Hawk flights were reported. Two Rough-legged Hawks showed up in Ohio County on October 14, but 10 noted there on November 17 (KC, BBC) and 10 in Clark County on November 24 (BA). Three Peregrine Falcons were seen in western Kentucky September 29-30 during the Kentucky Ornithological Society weekend (KOS) ; one at the Falls of the Ohio on October 5 (LR), an immature there on November 19 (DP) and an adult observed occasionally in November (BPB). 6 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 Rails through Shorebircls — A fresh road killed Virginia Rail was found on the median between Timberwood Shopping Center and Jefferson Mall, Jefferson County on October 23 (DP). Single Soras were reported only from SWMA and at Duck Island WMA (BPB et al.) . American Coots began arriving by October 24 with more than 500 in the vicinity of Bailey Hollow, Patterson Landing, Kentucky Lake, Calloway County (CP) and 354 at Lake Pewee (JH). The largest concentration was at LP with a count of 1,185 on November 10 (JH). Early Sandhill Cranes included 125 over Valley Station, Jefferson County on September 29 (RH). Flights occurred chiefly November 13-18, with approximately 1,000 over Hart County on November 13-14 (SK) and the same number in Hardin County on November 17 (MB, ST). The shorebird migration varied from place to place depending on habitat; most species were present, but numbers were quite low. The Black- bellied Plover was found at only three locations: one, a juvenile, at the Falls of the Ohio on September 8 (BPB, LR), four juveniles at Duck Island WMA, September 30 (BPB, et al.) and one at Jonathan Creek on November 2 (CP). Only one Lesser Golden Plover was reported and that was at the Falls of the Ohio on September 18 (BPB, LR). Semipalmated Plovers were scarce even in western Kentucky: five near SWMA on August 5 (LR) ; only one at Jonathan Creek August 28 (CP) ; five at Lake #9 August 28 (BM, MM) ; and four -f on a sandbar on the Mississippi River, Hickman County, September 11 (BPB, R. Cicerello). The only congregation of Kill- deers occurred at Falls of Rough, Grayson County, with 60+ on August 29 I (KC) and 57 along River Road Country Club golf course, Louisville (JB, PB). Interesting were the three American Avocets below McAlpine Dam, Louisville on August 16 (LR), two in the same pool as above on August 29 (LR), also reported by Cap Middleton. Greater Yellowlegs were scarce with only one to five birds at six locations (m. ob.). Lesser Yellowlegs fared slightly better with 30+ birds at Fish Pond on August 3 (BM, MM), 20 at SWMA on October 13 (BBC), 15 at Jonathan Creek (CP) on October 31, and one to four birds at four other locations (BM, JH, JE1, BPB). Sanderlings were present at a few places but in low numbers, while Semi¬ palmated Sandpipers totaled 55 birds on August 5 near SWMA (LR), 10 + birds at Lake #9 on August 3 (BM, MM ) and seven at Honker Bay — LBL (CP). Western Sandpipers were recorded at four locations, with the highest number — 20 J - at Lake #9 on August 3 (BM, MM), one to four birds elsewhere, and one as late as November 30 at Lake Barkley north of US 68 — LBL (CP). Some 50+ Least Sandpipers were counted at Fish Pond on August 3 (BM, MM), four at Paradise Steam Plant, Muhlenberg County on August 12 (BM, MM) and three there on November 11 (BPB). Also, about 10 birds were present at Honker Lake — LBL on November 30 (CP) and small numbers irregularly at Jonathan Creek (CP). A single White- rumped Sandpiper was present at the Paradise TVA Plant, Muhlenberg County on October 24 and 28 (BPB with R. Cicerello, L. McNeil on the former date and with LR on latter). Greatest number of Baird’s Sand¬ pipers was nine at a lake near Hodgenville, Larue County on September 15 (JB, PB). Other sightings included two in flooded field 0.25 mile from SWMA (LR), three at Falls of the Ohio on September 8 (RH), one at Paradise Steam Plant on August 26 ( BM, MM). The Pectoral Sandpiper, usually a common transient, was present in very low numbers, with 15 birds as the highest number observed at SWMA on September 22 (BPB, LR). Dunlins were fairly widespread (9 locations), with only one to four birds with the exception of Honker Lake — LBL with 28 birds on October 31 and 40+ at Jonathan Creek on November 14 (CP). One to two Stilt Sandpipers were noted at Paradise Steam Plant (BM), Jonathan Creek 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 7 (CP), Falls of the Ohio (RH), but eight at SWMA (BPB, LR) ; one bird lingered on a surface mine pond in Hopkins County through October 28 (BPB, LR). Five Buff-breasted Sandpipers appeared at Jonathan Creek on September 3 (CP, Hap Chambers), at least four at Falls of the Ohio on September 8 (BPB) and one as late as September 30 on a gravel bar on Lake Barkley near Kuttawa, Lyon County (BPB, KCa, JCa). This latter record established a late state date. Short-billed Dowitchers were barely mentioned and were few in numbers, while Common Snipe increased in numbers from six birds at LP on September 29 to 28 on November 10 (JH) to 62 the following day (BPB, LR, DC). Other records included four birds at Lick Creek, Boone County (LMc), seven at Thurston’s Pond (JE1), three to five at BWMA (BPB, LR) and three at Jonathan Creek (CP). Gulls through Terns — Again, a Laughing Gull (first-year bird) was noted on Lake Barkley near Eddyviile, Lyon County on September 30 — photo by K. Caminiti (BPB, KCa, JCa). A Franklin’s Gull (sub-adult) was seen above Barkley Dam, Lyon County on September 28 (BPB, KOS) ; three on Lake Barkley, Boyd’s Landing, Lyon County on September 30 (BPB, DP, JCa, KCa) ; and one immature was seen at Fishing Creek Recreational Area, Pulaski County on October 10 (JE1). Few Bonaparte’s Gulls had returned to Kentucky by the end of the period, with a single bird present at LBL on November 7 (CP) and another at Lake Pewee on November 11 (BPB, LR, DC). Modest numbers of Ring-billed Gulls were present in the vicinity of Lake Barkley on September 11-30, with 14-15 at LP and on the Ohio River at Louisville. An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was seen on Lake Barkley above the dam, Lyon County on September 11 (BPB, R. Cieerello). Another, or perhaps the same bird was noted on a mud flat on Lake Barkley near Eddyviile on September 30 (BPB, KCa, JCa — photo by K. Caminiti). Caspian Terns returned to only four locations and in small numbers. Two birds at the Falls of the Ohio on August 8 were the earliest (LR) and peaked at 11 on August 22 (LR) ; all other sightings were of two or three birds. Common and Forster’s Terns were few with 13 Forster’s at Jonathan Creek as the highest number (CP). A total of 25+ Least Terns was counted at Lake #9 on August 3 (BM, MM); no others reported. An im¬ mature Black Tern was seen at Lake #9 on August 3 (BM, MM) and two at the Falls of the Ohio on September 5 (RH). Cuckoos through Woodpeckers ■ — Only two reports of the Black-billed Cuckoo: one at Madisonville on September 19 (JH) and one south of McHenry, Ohio County on October 1 (BE, TE). Single Yellow-billed Cuckoos were relatively late: one at Fishing Creek Recreational Area on October 1 and one at Thurston’s Pond on October 24 (JE1). A single Common Barn Owl was present at Walton, Boone County on August 4 (KCa, JCa). Four Short-eared Owls were encountered near Hwy 369, Ohio County on Novem¬ ber 10 (KC, AW). Common Nighthawks began migrating on August 23 when 50-60 were seen in Jefferson County over Hwy 841 (DS); and a flock of 185+ over the Shelby campus, University of Louisville, Jefferson County on August 29 (JA) ; one bird still present as late as November 1, over the above campus (JA). A Chuck-will’s-widow was late at Hanson, Hopkins County on August 31 where it was last heard calling (Bonnie West fide JH). The largest flocks of Chimney Swifts totaled 300+ and were seen over a chimney in Somerset, Pulaski County and over Somerset Reservoir on August 22 and September 17, respectively (JE1) ; some 50 + were still present at the latter location on October 3 (JE1). At BPS 15 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds had gathered by August 19, numbers dropped 8 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 in mid-September, four were left on October 1, and one lingered until October 19 but was gone the following day (KC). Another bird lingered at a feeder at Science Hill, Pulaski County until October 14 (JE1). Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were scarce, but “good numbers” arrived in Hart County in late September (SK). Flycatchers through Wrens — An Eastern Wood-Pewee was late at BPS on October 19 (KC). It was interesting to see an Olive-sided Fly¬ catcher at Pennyroyal State Park, Christian County on the early date of August 12 (BM, MM). An unusually late Eastern Kingbird was carefully checked in a Science Hill yard on November 13 (Diane Elmore fide JE1). There were no large flocks of Tree Swallows. The group of about 100 birds over the lake at Cool Springs, Ohio County, November 3 was the largest concentration (RH) ; an estimated 40 at LP on October 12 (JH), where two lingered as late as November 11 (BPB, LR, DC). A Barn Swallow was also late at LP on November 11 (BPB et al.) . The Red-breasted Nuthatch first appeared at Rernheim Forest, Bullitt County on September 22 (JB, PB). Other sightings included one or two birds at Louisville, Valley Station, BPS, and in rural Jackson County north of McKee and in eastern Muhlenberg County from October 2-November 28 (m. ob.). Single Winter Wrens were found at Munfordville, Hart County and in the Glasgow area, Barren County on October 14 (SK, RS, respectively). A single Sedge Wren was seen near a marsh in Ohio County on October 1 (KC) and several flushed at SWMA on October 13 (BBC, BPB). A few Marsh Wrens were encountered at Joe Creason Park, Louisville (JB, PB) and a couple flushed from a weedy patch at Duck Island WMA at Lake Barkley, Trigg County (BPB, DP, JCa, KCa). Also, several flushed at SWMA on October 13 (BBC). Kinglets through Waxwings ■ — Three Golden-crowned Kinglets re¬ turned to BPS relatively early on September 18 (KC) ; good movement during the third week in November at Hanson, where a flock of 16 was noted (B. West fide JH). A flock of 75 Eastern Bluebirds passed over BPS on October 19 (KC, BBC). The Swainson’s Thrush was present from Sep¬ tember 14-October 12 in low numbers, but common at Munfordville (SK). A Gray Catbird lingered at BPS until October 19 (KC). Cedar Waxwings peaked" at 75+ at BPS on November 9 (KC). Vireos through Warblers — Vireo flights were fairly good on Sep¬ tember 10 and 29. A Bell’s Vireo was heard along a road leading to Hardy Slough, SWMA, August 5 (LR). Philadelphia Vireos were present in numbers from one to three at Joe Creason Park, September 16-17, Bern- heim Forest on September 22 and at LBL on October 6 (JB, PB), while one in the Danville area, Boyle County provided a late state date on October 17 (FL) and another on the same date at the Beargrass Nature Preserve, Louisville (JB, PB). There was some difference of opinion on the warbler migration. One observer felt there was a good movement with “hundreds” of warblers passing through, while another thought the migra¬ tion uneventful. Single Golden-winged Warblers were seen at Joe Creason Park on September 16, 17 and 22 (JB, PB) and one each in September and October at Munfordville (SK). The Tennessee, as usual, was the most common, but this year especially at Munfordville, where “hundreds” were noted on a farm (SK). A few Orange-crowned Warblers were seen during September, with one as early as September 8 and is Kentucky’s earliest record (JB, PB). The Magnolia Warbler was numerous at Joe Creason Park (JB). The Yellow-rumped Warbler was late in arriving, and no large 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 9 flights were noted. Three Pine Warblers were recorded in Ohio County, south of McHenry on October 1 (BE, TE) ; and a male at Surrey Hills Farm, Louisville on November 18 was a rather late migrant (BPB). A fair movement of Bay-breasted Warblers was noted at Beargrass Nature Pre¬ serve on September 29 (JB, PB). A single Blackpoll Warbler was picked up at a TV tower kill in Henderson on September 22 (bird probably killed previous night — BPB, LR) and another picked up near Westport, Oldham County on September 23 (bird probably killed within the week — BPB). American Redstarts were observed at Joe Creason Park August 31-Septem- ber 30 with 12 as the greatest number on September 15 (JB, PB). A Swainson’s Warbler was found dead under WGRB TV tower on October 17, apparently part of a major tower kill October 11-12 (JE1). Even though the bird was killed on October 11 or 12, it would still be a late state record. The location of the tower is at Columbia, Adair County, A total of 376 dead Ovenbirds was picked up beneath the tower mentioned above on October 17 (JE1). A Connecticut Warbler was discovered in a Danville yard on September 27 (FL) and one dead bird picked up at the TV tower near Westport, October 20 (BPB, D. Ebel). A Mourning Warbler was seen at Joe Creason Park on September 8 (JB, PB). A male Hooded Warbler at Freeman Lake, Elizabethtown, Hardin County on October 13 was relatively late in departing (RH). Grosbeaks through Finches — Rose-breasted Grosbeaks appeared to be less common this fall in the Madisonville area (JH), while at Munfordville “hundreds” were seen from mid-September to mid-October (SK). An un¬ usually late Rose-breasted Grosbeak was seen on November 26-28 at Bowling Green, near Drake’s Creek, southeast Warren County. The male bird was in winter plumage and documented on video tape (BF). A Blue Grosbeak was still singing in the vicinity of Brazzle Bridge, Hopkins County on August 8 (JH). The species was common on the PHSM on August 3 and 12 where at least three family groups, plus additional singing males, were present each day (BM, MM). A freshly killed Dickcissel was picked up at a TV tower in Henderson on September 22 (BPB, LR) ; and one still lingered near Petersburg, Boone County on October 6 (LMc). Grasshopper Sparrows were common on the PHSM on August 12, some still singing (BM, MM). A Henslow’s Sparrow was noted in Butler County on August 26 where records, if any, are few (BM, MM). A freshly killed specimen of a Sharp-tailed Sparrow was found under the WAVE tower near West- port on October 20; it was probably killed a few days prior to the 20th (BPB). White-throated Sparrows were late in arriving and were in low numbers. A Dark-eyed Junco was relatively early at Anchorage on Sep¬ tember 22 (BM). A Snow Bunting at Kentucky Utilities Power Company on November 18 was unexpected (KCa, JCa). There was only a small migration of Purple Finches; the earliest were recorded at Hanson on October 3 (B. West fide JH) and others trickled through during the re¬ mainder of the period. Call notes of a flock of eight to 10 birds heard very well as they passed overhead in northern Jackson County near Sand Springs on November 28 were identified as Red Crossbills (BPB). Pine Siskins were scarce and only reported from five locations in low numbers: BPS (KC), Berea (AR, TR), Louisville (BPB), Madisonville (JH) and Somerset (CH), while one bird arrived unusually early on October 1 and established an early state date (KC). Contributors — Brad Andres (BA), Janet Aylward (JA), Mary Bauer (MB), Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), K. Caminiti (KCa), Joe Caminiti (JCa), Kathryn Clay (KC), Herbert L. Clay (HC), Dona Coates (DC), 10 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 Brenda Eaden (BE), Tony Eaden (TE), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Blaine Ferrell (BF), Richard Heal'y (RH), J. W. Hancock (JH), Carolyn Hodges (CH), Steve Kistler (SK), W. Kemper (WK), Frederick W. Loetscher (FL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Michael Miller (MMi), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Jim Pasikowski (JP), Donald Parker (DP), Lene Rauth (LR), Art Ricketts (AR), Teena Ricketts (TR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F. W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Faye Starr (FSt), Donald Summerfield (DS), Scottie Theiss (ST), Thomas Stephens (TS), Alita Wilson (AW). - — 9101 Spokane Wav, Louisville 40241, and P.O. Box 23447, Anchorage 40223. MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT 1990-1991 Reports of 21 counts were received from across the state. A total of 129 species was recorded on count days, 109 of which are represented on the table. Those species observed on count days that are not represented on the table include: one Pacific Loon and one Red-throated Loon (Land Between the Lakes), two Greater White-fronted Geese (Paradise), one Greater Scaup (Burlington), one Osprey (Marion), one Prairie Falcon (Paradise), one Peregrine Falcon ( Shelby ville) , one Ruffed Grouse (Perry County), 39 Least Sandpipers, 43 Dunlin and three Lesser Black-backed Gulls (Land Between the Lakes), one Common Barn-Owl (Lexington), one Long-eared Owl (Paradise), one House Wren (Louisville), one Prairie Warbler (Otter Creek), one Common Yellowthroat (Otter Creek), one Indigo Bunting (Lexington), one Vesper Sparrow (Marion), three Lark Sparrows (Calloway County) and one Lapland Longspur (Paradise). Other birds of interest observed during the count period but not on count day included: one Mute Swan (possible release — Yelvington), one Peregrine Falcon (Louisville) and one Osprey (Perry County). There were 13 more species observed this year compared with last. The temperature extremes reported for count days were 64°F in De¬ cember to 12°F on January 1. The average daily temperature during the count period was 43° F which was rather mild. The mild weather might have accounted for the fact that Canada Goose, Mallard and American Black Duck numbers were much lower than last year when December temperatures plummeted to record breaking lows. The extremely cold temperatures to our north and west coupled with our mild temperatures might have accounted for the increase in Common Loon numbers and the presence of the Pacific Loon and the Red-throated Loon. Interestingly, Hooded and Common Merganser numbers also were up significantly this year compared with last. A striking increase in Bonaparte’s Gull sightings was evident with 2,642 this year compared with only 3 last year. Conversely, American Robins (1,353), Cedar Waxwings (185) and Yellow-rumped Warblers (105), normally species found in greater abundance (6,212; 1,875; and 547, respectively in 1990), were clearly difficult to find this year. Pine Siskins were also relatively hard to find, only 99 this year compared with 596 last year. Red-headed Woodpeckers on the other hand were approximately six times more abundant this year than last. Whether these fluctuations in numbers can be attributed to climatic conditions, food resource conditions or a combination of these factors is difficult to say based on Mid-winter Bird Count census data for a given year. A decrease 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 in the abundance of cedar cones for example, as reported for several count areas, might have contributed to the decrease in Cedar Waxwing numbers. With the mild temperatures it was not too surprising that several summer residents, such as the Indigo Bunting and the Common Yellowthroat lingered in the area. It was nice to see the Common Barn-Owl show up on the count again this year and in a different location than last year. Although observations based on Mid-winter Count bird census data are less than precise, several additional observations warrant mention. Once again, it seems as though no large blackbird and starling roosts were encountered in count areas. The number of Eastern Bluebirds (1201) was up only slightly compared with the number last year (1024). Loggerhead Shrikes held their own compared with last year also. A good diversity of sparrows was evident and the occurrence of Lark Sparrows and the Vesper Sparrow were unusual. Interestingly, the number of Purple Finches, House Finches and House Sparrows was approximately one half of the number of each of these species tallied last year. Other observations of interest have already been addressed above or can be found in the comments accompanying the description for each count. In order to be considered for state record status, documentation needs to be considered by the Kentucky Bird Record Committee for unusual sightings. This would include the fol¬ lowing for this count: Pacific Loon, Red-throated Loon, Lesser Black- backed Gull, Prairie Falcon, Prairie Warbler, House Wren, Common Yellow- throat, Lark Sparrow and Brewer’s Blackbird. Documentation forms will be sent to those compilers on whose count rare species were observed. Thanks are sincerely extended to all participants, particularly those who submitted verification forms for unusual sightings and those who included interesting comments about their counts. CALLOWAY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter, circle, center Douglas Cemetery.) Habitat 20% lake shore and streams, 20% deciduous and pine woods, 25% urban and residential and 35% pastures and open fields. Jan. 1; 6:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Partly cloudy/sunny; temp. 14° F to 42° F; wind NW, 0-2 m.p.h. Fourteen observers in 8 parties. Total party-hours 58 (20.5 on foot, 37.5 by car). Total party-miles 386.5 (44.5 on foot, 342 by car). Total species 87; total individuals 11,484. Large numbers of Bonaparte’s Gulls had been seen prior to the count day. Observers: Phyllis Brines, Wally Brines, Hap Chambers (compiler), Russell Dawson, Joe Tom Erwin, Bob Head, Rick Hokans, Sally Leedom, Sally Mills, Mike Miller, Carl Mowery, Clell Peterson, Shari Sherwood and Tommy Sherwood. LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Pisgah Bay Picnic Ground.) Habitat lake and stream shores 40%, deciduous and pine woods 22%, overgrown and cultivated fields 28% and residential and small business 10%. Dec. 15: 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy (a.m.), partly cloudy (p.m.); temp. 58°F to 61°F; wind SW, 10-18 m.p.h. Twenty eight observers in 9 parties. Total party-hours 63 (29 on foot, 34 by car). Total party-miles 407 (25.5 on foot, 381.5 by car). Total species 95; total individuals 16,459. The Pacific and Red-throated Loons were sighted 1 mile above Ken¬ tucky Dam on Dec. 15 (BPB, DP) and then again on Sunday, Dec. 16 12 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 (BPB, DP, CP, CM, JTE). The Adult Golden Eagles were seen over Barkley Lake (WB, ER), the immature at Hematite Lake (BH, CM). The un¬ seasonably watm weather accounted for the high numbers of Double- crested Cormorants, Hooded and Common Mergansers, and the low numbers of Canada Geese. Observers: Douglas Bohanan, Wally Brines, Gerald Burnett, Happy Chambers, Jack Dodd, Lorrine Dodd, Melissa Easley, Joe Tom Erwin, Dan Frisk, Bob Head, Nita Head, Rick Hokans, Sharon Hutchison, Sally Leedorn, Carl Mowery (compiler), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Don Parker, j Clell Peterson, Lawrence Philpot, Michelle Putz, Wendell Ragland, Ed Ray, Shari Sherwood, Tommy Sherwood, Pat Wallace, Steve White, Carla j Yambert, Paul Yambert. MARION (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Forest Grove.) Habitat open, brush, woods, creek and river. Jan. 1; 6:00 a.m. to ■ 6:00 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 22°F to 40°F; wind S, light. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (7 on foot, 3 by car). Total party-miles 24 (4 on foot, 20 by car). Total species 46; total individ¬ uals 2,126. One Osprey was observed on the count day. Observers: C. L. Frazer (compiler) and Jim Frazer. SORGHO (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Ky. 279-S and Audubon Parkway.) Habitat fields, backwaters, large woods, shrubs and farmland. Dec. 29; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 56°F to 63° F; wind 5 m.p.h. Some snow and ice on the ground. Nine observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 18 (12 on foot, 6 by car). ! Total party-miles 38 (10 on foot, 28 by car). Total species 40; total j individuals 1,962. One hundred acres covered by backwater generally included on walks, several roads under backwater, thus territory limited. Observers: Brenda Eaden, Tony Eaden, Joe Ford, John Humphrey, j Bert Powell, Millie Powell, Mandy Powell, Tommy Stevenson, Ed Wilson (compiler) and Elinor Wilson. YELVINGTON points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Ken¬ tucky Highway 405 and junction at Route 662 at Yelvington, Ky.) Habitat Ohio River Bottoms, Fish and Game Farm, roadside ditches, fields and woods. Dec. 22; 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky overcast with rain; temp. 30°F to 40° F; wind 10-15 m.p.h. Roads muddy from heavy rains on December 20. Intermittent rain on December 22. Ten observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 20 (6 on foot, 14 by car). | Total party-miles 37 (6 on foot, 31 by car). Total species 56; total individ¬ uals 1,286. Due to several days of heavy rains prior to count day the Ohio River bottoms and the Blackford Creek area roads were flooded. River and creek bottoms have been the most productive areas in the past. One party did get to cover the Daviess County Fish and Game Farm. The area around Carpenter’s Lake and environs was covered on foot. Two large wooded areas were covered in spite of intermittent rain. Roadside binding also yielded a number of birds. The largest number of birds was found at the feeders of Marvin and Maudie Ray, Mary Lee Thompson and the Powells. Not being able to cover much of our previous area is the reason for the small number of species and individual birds. The Mute Swan has been on the lakes since October. It may be domestic but it is able to fly from one lake to the other. As the Mute Swan has been 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 found on the river and the gravel pit lakes several years ago we feel that this is a wild bird. One Evening Grosbeak was on the Powell’s feeder. Observers: Mike Brown, Neal Hayden, Jan Howard, John Humphrey, A. L. Powell (compiler), Millie Powell, Marvin Ray, Maudie Ray, Bob Stocking and Mary Lee Thompson. HANCOCK COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Patesville.) Habitat woodland, open fields and creek bottom. Dec. 28; 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 34°F to 48°F; wind E at 5 m.p.h. Extremely foggy, drizzle. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 7 (6 on foot, 1 by car). Total party-miles 15 (5 on foot, 10 by car). Total species 17; total indi¬ viduals 87. Observers: Roseann Radzelovage (compiler) and Walt Radzelovage. PARADISE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Hopewell Cemetery in southern Ohio County.) Habitat 30% grasslands, 20% woodlands, 20% farmland, 20% brushy edges and fields, 10% lakes and streams. Jan. 1; 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky mostly clear; temp. 12°F to 40°F; wind variable, 0-5 m.p.h. Water partly frozen. Fourteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 44 (20 on foot, 24 by car). Total party-miles 258 (8 on foot, 250 by car +4 hours owling). Total species 91; total individuals 11,084. The center of the count circle was shifted slightly to include some recently discovered areas in Muhlenberg County. However, this small change did not eliminate areas covered on previous counts. Nearly perfect weather, combined with coverage of greater diversity of habitats, yielded the highest species total (91) in the three years this count has been taken. A good variety of waterfowl (3 species of geese, 13 species of ducks) led the way to the high total, but a good showing of some of the harder-to-find landbird species also helped out. Best finds of the count included the Prairie Falcon (JB, PB), the species’ first appearance in this area in nearly two years, a pair of White-fronted Geese (RH), a Lapland Longspur (BPB, LS), and four Evening Grosbeaks (DP, KP, SB). Raptor totals were slightly lower this year, in part due to less comprehensive coverage of a few crucial areas, although numbers of hawks and owls have seemed a bit lower in most areas this winter. Short-eared Owls were most prevalent in Muhlen¬ berg County; a bird with a broken wing was picked up alive in Ohio County and kept for rehabilitation (JC, KC, LM). The Long-eared Owl was found in the same location as previous years. Robins, Cedar Waxwings, and Yellow-rumped Warblers were almost non-existent. Included in the total of 66 Red-tailed Hawks was a single melanistic individual. Observers: Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Sean Burns, Joe and Kathy Caminiti, Dona Coates, Brenda and Tony Eaden, Richard Healy, Jr., Lee McNeely, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Donald and Katherine Parker, and Larry Sparks. BOWLING GREEN (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Three Springs, six miles south of Bowling Green. Habitat deciduous forests 20%, fields and pastures 70% and town and parks 10%. Dec. 15; 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 55°F to 64°F; wind S, 3-12 m.p.h. Steady drizzle in a.m. Eight observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 13 (8 on foot, 5 by car). Total party-miles 88 (6 on foot, 82 by car). Total species 52; total individuals 1,397. Observers: Lloyd Curry, Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell, Lisa Hicks, Philip Johnson, Bill Mathes, Ruth Mathes and H. E. Shadowen (compiler). ainhoo Auyad MVSdVM NoioNiiyna aniANva N010NIX31 3H1IAA913HS 3TI IASI HOI AS3U03 !A]|3HNd39 XdVd »33dO d3ilO AiNnOO Id VH Honod 3Hi do snvd AA09SV39 XdVd "I.1VN 3AV0 H101AIIAIV1A] N33d9 ONHAAOa 3SI0VdVd AINHOO X909NVH N019NIA13A 0H9d0S CM f- CD to CO 10 05 CM O a> h- cm CO CM CD NOIdVlAI S3XV3 3HJ. N33AA139 CINV1 AINHOO AVMOnVO cr Ul Z> o o a cc m CM CO CO O CO CO CM CM CO t- CM CM cm co O) i — h- r — CM CD lO Cl M 05 O O CO 5- Ifl S O 00 O) Cl. 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DC co co ~ QC CO LU LU CO m ^ DC CE P < 5 w *■< i-1 Q ^ Q LU ^ LU (3 O >2 Q UJ — < CO L-l 2 w in — Ojlu>Q.Z(E< “ - OC Q ^ -U < LU ^ Q ir lu W LU ^ d a: O o: DC CD O CQ Li- GO HI co CO 3 O £ CO O O DC DC DC CD < Q_ CD W 5 > CL I CL < LU co in r- CM CD co m m cn co Birds observed during the count period, but not on the count day. 18 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK (center and habitat as de¬ scribed in 1980.) Dec. 16; 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy; temp. 35°F to 44°F; wind N, 5 m.p.h. Not many of the northern species were here yet, too warm — no ducks, no American Robins, no Yellow-rumped Warblers. Seven observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 10 (3 on foot ,7 by car). Total party-miles 47 (5 on foot, 42 by car). Total species 39; total individ¬ uals 434. Observers: Rick Bryson, Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Lisa Hicks, David Roemer, Herb E. Shadowen, Lois Winter. GLASGOW (center and habitat as described in 1986). Dec. 28; 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky heavy overcast and fog early; light overcast there¬ after; temp. 38°F to 47°F; wind calm, 0-5 m.p.h. Seventeen observers in 14 parties (See Comments). Total party-hours 46 (39 on foot, 7 by car). Total party-miles 105 (6.5 on foot, 98.5 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 2,842. Large numbers of waterfowl were observed at Barren River Reservoir, but most of them could not be positively identified due to poor visibility at the time of their sighting. The Cormorant sightings (2 immatures and 1 i adult) represent a new winter record for this species on this count. We would like to thank the Glasgow Garden Club for their participation in this count; their feeder-watch results are greatly appreciated. Observers: Marquita Gillenwater, Frances Goodman, Anna K. Jernigan, Howard M. and Francis Jones, Ron Lewis, Wayne M. Mason (compiler), Kaye Mayfield, Doris McKinley, Elaine Murphy, Ruth Patterson, N. Richardson, Ann and Bill Rogers, Elizabeth Rogers, Faye and R. Russell Starr. FALLS OF THE ROUGH (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at the intersection of Ky. Hwy. 54 and U.S. Hwy. 79, Short Creek, Kentucky in Grayson County). Habitat cultivated fields, woodlands, Rough River Lake and roadsides. Dec. 26; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 13°F to 31°F; wind calm. Two observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 8 (1.5 on foot, 6.5 by car). Total party-miles 55 (1 on foot, 54 by car). Total species 37; total individuals 1,178. Observers: Joyce Porter (compiler) and Doralee St. Clair. HART COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Craddock Road and Geralds Lane.) Habitat farms, woodlots, Green River, and ponds. Dec. 22; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 25°F to 45° F; wind variable, gusty. Dark afternoon, few birds after noon. Four observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (5 on foot, 5 by car). Total party-miles 55 (5 on foot, 50 by car). Total species 47; total individ¬ uals 2,030.' No cedar berries anywhere in the county. Yellow-rumped Warblers and Cedar Waxwings are almost absent. Observers: Carol Friedman, Steve Kistler (compiler), Cap Middleton, and Mitchell Sturgeon. OTTER CREEK PARK (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 22%, woodlands 30%, farmland 34%, ponds, creeks and river 14%. Dec. 22; 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 57°F to 40°F; wind SW-N, 7-12 m.p.h. Light mist falling in early morning, heavy rain 11 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Mostly cloudy in p.m., occasional misting. 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 19 The four and one-half inches of rain during the week prior to the count caused Otter Creek to be very high and the ground soggy. Also the Ohio River was unusually high and the adjacent fields were flooded in many areas. The Double-crested Cormorant found flying across Doe Valley Lake was a new record for the count; it was found by the Stamm party. Other new count records included a Prairie Warbler and a Common Yellowthroat ; both species apparently lingered beyond normal departure dates. The former species was observed by B. Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Deborah White and the latter by Palmer-Ball. Good documentations. The mature Bald Eagle was found by Jim Pasikowski. Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, as well as Northern Flickers, all showed sharp de¬ creases in numbers compared with numbers in 1989. American Robins were scarce, with only six recorded, in sharp contrast with last year's record of 919. Cedar berries were absent and may have been the reason for the scarcity of robins and absence of waxwings and low numbers of Yellow- rumped Warblers. The flock of Water Pipits found on the ground at the edge of a flooded area below Doe Valley Lake was an interesting find. Seventeen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 41.5 (21 on foot, 20.5 by car). Total party-miles 208.5 (16.5 on foot, 192 by car). Total species 66; total individuals 3,837. Observers: Janet Aylward, Mary B. Bauer, Lloyd Curry, Mike Eirk, Richard Healy, Frank Krull, Jr., John Krull, Celia Lawrence, Jim Moore, Doxie Noonan, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Jim Pasikowski, Martha Pike, Helga Sehutte, Anne L. Stamm (compiler), Frederick W. Stamm and Deborah White. BERNHEIM FOREST (center and habitat as described in 1974.) Dec. 30; 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 58°F to 35°F; wind NW, 5-15 m.p.h. Light to moderate showers throughout the entire day. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 18 (5 on foot, 13 by car). Total party-miles 110 (2 on foot, 108 by car). Total species 48; total individuals 1,822. One has to expect that sooner or later every Christmas Bird Count is going to have its record worst day. Without question, this year’s Bernheim CBC was the worst we’ve ever had, and one can only hope that we will never experience a day like it again. The only consolation of the count was that only six observers wasted their day attempting to make a success out of a miserable combination of incessant rain, gusty winds and falling temperatures. The species total (48) was six worse than the lowest previous total and the number of individuals (1,822) fell far below the count average of more than 6,000 birds. No real conclusions could be drawn from the results; unfortunately, it was too late in the count period to re¬ schedule. Interesting among the results was the fact that a record count for White-crowned Sparrows (65; previous high of 51) was tallied. Mac McClure, Forest Manager, reported seeing the local Golden Eagles on the day before the count. Thanks is graciously extended to those hardy ob¬ servers who did take part. Observers: Mary Bill Bauer, Richard Cassell, Dona Coates, Tim Love, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler) and Martha Pike. LOUISVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center jet. Hwys. 42 and 22, as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 16; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy to partly cloudy; temp. 39 °F to 40°F; wind NW-SE, 12-5 m.p.h. Rained almost an inch the day previous to the count. 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 Thirty-five observers in 8 parties. Total party-hours 89.5 (43 on foot, 46.5 by ear). Total party-miles 405 (38 on foot, 367 by car). Total species 81; total individuals 17,018. Almost an inch of rain fell the day prior to the count, leaving the ground soggy and the vegetation wet. The Ohio River and ponds were high and muddy. All participants felt that the birds were low in numbers. Seventeen species of waterfowl were present including 30 Hooded Mer¬ gansers. Blue-winged Teal were found at two locations and lingered beyond normal departure dates. The white “quotation” marks were obvious on some of the birds noted and the small size was also noted. A House Wren was still present and found with two Carolina Wrens (all field marks noted) by two competent observers. Belted Kingfishers were up in numbers, perhaps due to the mild fall season. Carolina Wrens were in good numbers and were about 25% over 1989 figures. Winter Wrens were up too, while Horned Larks were scarcely present, with a low of 12 birds, as compared with 252 last year. Blackbirds were in low numbers and this year there are no roosts known locally. Observers: Garrett Adams, Janet Aylward, Mary Bauer, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Marie Blahnik, Roland Blahnik, Dona Coates, Muriel Doolittle, Mike Eirk, S. A. Figg, Katy Fulkerson, Wayne Hinkle, Frank Krull, Sr., Frank Krull, John Krull, Tim Love, Colleen Mansmith, Fred Mansmith, Barbara McFarland, Jim McFarland, Dot Muntan, Doxie Noonan, J. R. Noonan, Martha Pike, Lene Rauth, Ginny Rommel, Helga Schutte, Tony Smith, Anne Stamm (compiler), F. W. Stamm, Mike Stinson, Midge Susie, Scottie Theiss, Ed Triner. SHELBYVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center .75 miles south of U.S. 60 and Guist Creek Lake on Ky. Highway 714.) Habitat elevation 640'-1190', farm land, fallow land, residential, wooded and grassland. Dec. 22; 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Overcast raining and foggy; temp. 40°F to 58°F; wind SW-NW, 0-5 m.p.h. Visibility was poor the entire day. Seven observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 10.25 (0 on foot, 10.25 by car). Total party-miles 310 (0 on foot, 310 by car). Total species 47; total individuals 5,602. Vulture roost accounted for the large number of vultures. Observers: Iris Brown, Leslie Brown, Todd Brown and W. H. Brown (compiler), Ron Pauley, Seth Pauley and Rebecca Reihm. LEXINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman Church and Tates Creek Road.) Habitat farmland and residential. Dec. 15; 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky dark and overcast. 56°F to 58°F; wind S, 5-10 m.p.h. Moderate to heavy rain. Thirty six observers in 9 parties. Total party-hours 160 (20 on foot, 140 by car). Total party-miles 295 (10 on foot, 285 by car). Total species 76; total individuals 15,813. Observers: Brad Andres, Sarah Andres, Ruth Blimes, Earl Boggs, Earl E. Boggs, Gary Boggs, Mike Boggs, Ann Bradley, Eugene Bradley, Rose Canon, Manton Cornette, Ruth Davis, Phylis Deal, Lyda Feck, Michael Flynn, Maureen Furbacj, Smith Hundley, Terri Koontz, Bret Kuss, Betty Maxson, Robert O. McNeece, Robert L. Morris (compiler), Glenn Raliegh, Ed Seiler, Lewis Shain, Mary Snyder, Richard Stofer, Jr., Mrs. Richard Stofer, Jr., Marie Sutton, Dave Svetich, Andrew Uterhart, Sally Wasielew- ski, Jim Williams, Tim Williams, Jim Wilson and Bernice Wood. DANVILLE (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat water 14%, urban 2%, cultivated 14%, 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 21 field/fence 47%, wooded/edge 16% and feeder 7%. Dec. 15; 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 51°F to 57°F; wind nil. Rain all day. Eighteen observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 34 (3 on foot, 31 by car). Total party-miles 364 (4 on foot, 360 by car). Total species 53; total individuals 14,561. Observers: Chauneey Alcock, Bob Corcoran, Lois Corcoran, Neil Ek- lund, (compiler), Scott Eklund, Virginia Eklund, JoAnn Hamm, Michael Hamm, Mort Hoagland, Tom Kearns, Bill Kemper, John Newton, John B. Nichols, Herb Petitjean, Margaret Rimstidt, Jim Roessler, Joe Russell, Joan Smith. BURLINGTON (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at Camp Michaels near Union, KY.) Habitat woodland and forest edge 30%, farmland and fields 30%, streams and river 35% and residential 5%. Dec. 29; 7:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 53°F to 61°F; wind S, 10-20 m.p.h. All water open. Thirteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 36.5 (16 on foot, 20.5 by car). Total party-miles 251 (6 on foot, 245 by car). Total species 64; total individuals 2,876. The Greater Scaup, Bonaparte’s Gull and Black Vultures were all found at the East Bend Power Plant. The Greater Scaup apparently was a female, observed during the morning at the East Bend Power Plant Ash pond by the Caminitis and Palmer-Ball. It was observed again during late afternoon by the same three observers, plus McNeely and Stephens. Field marks were noted during both observations, including wing markings dur¬ ing a short flight at the second sighting. Also, while we weren’t certain, it was felt that the Black Vulture flocks seen on the Warsaw and Burlington counts actually represented two separate roosts. Observers: Brenda Bellamy, Vivian Brun, Joe Caminiti, Kathy Cami- niti, Elaine Carroll, Kevin Flowers, Darlena Graham, Gerri Kennedy, Lee McNeely (compiler), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Gayle Pille, Carmen Schulte and Tommy Stephens. Feeder watchers were Barb Beekerich, Marjorie Hill and Lynda McNeely. W ARSAW (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Gallatin County Courthouse.) Habitat river and shore 35%, open field and farmland 30%, woodland and forest edge 30% and residential 5%. Dec. 15; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky overcast a.m., clear p.m.; temp. 49°F to 53°F; wind S, 5-20 m.p.h. Rain showers during early morning, all water open. Six observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 14 (2 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles 132 (1 on foot, 131 by car). Total species 51; total indi¬ vidual 1,653. Highlights included a dark-phase Red-tailed Hawk, 2 Bonaparte’s Gulls, and 80 Black Vultures present at the Ghent Power Plant. Observers: Joe Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Parlena Graham, David McNeely, Lee McNeely (compiler) and Tommy Stephens. PERRY COUNTY (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Sam Campbells Branch, Perry County.) Habitat mixed upland forest, disturbed by surface mining (reclaimed) and the north fork of the Ken¬ tucky River, Dec. 26; 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 20°F to 35°F; wind light, 0-5 m.p.h. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 8.5 (7 on foot, 1.5 by car). Total party-miles 20 (10 on foot, 10 by car). Total species 35; total individ¬ uals 461. 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 Generally find Northern Saw-whet Owl in this area each winter, but didn’t find one yet this year. Observers: Don Spencer (compiler) and Ben Spencer. FIELD NOTES RED-THROATED LOON IN LOUISVILLE On Saturday, November 24, 1990, while birding upriver along the Ohio in Louisville, Kentucky, we observed many Common Loons on the i water. We then proceeded downriver to Towhead Island where Beargrass j Creek enters the Ohio River. At first we did not see any birds, but scanning the area with our binoculars we picked up a bird diving about 25-30 feet offshore. When it resurfaced we identified it as a Red-throated Loon ( Gavia stellata). The loon was smaller than the Common Loons we had seen earlier, its head and the back of the neck were uniformly pale grey, the beak was slender and upturned, specks of white were visible on its back, and there i was still a splotch of red on the neck. We observed it for an hour swimming and making quick dives in the relatively calm waters protected by the I island and tied-up barges. It ate approximately five fish during this I period. As we left, it was swimming out into the river downstream. We again observed the loon on Sunday, November 25, in the same area. The bird was very cooperative coming as close as five to six feet offshore. A Beckham Bird Club bird alert was started on Saturday, November 25, and many members saw the loon during the time it was present. The loon was last reported being seen on Thursday, November 29. This is the ninth record for the Red-throated Loon in the state of Kentucky and the first since 1977. (Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kentucky, Monroe, Stamm, Palmer-Ball). — JANE BELL and PAT BELL, 306 Fairlawn Road, Louisville 40207. A NEW BIG DAY RECORD FOR KENTUCKY Although of little scientific value, one of the most enjoyable of birding activities is the “Big Day.” The Big Day as a birding endeavor is about as old as birdwatching itself. It involves the attempt by an observer or group of observers (a “party” or “team”) to identify as many species of birds as possible in a given area during a single calendar day. Although Big Day Counts are often undertaken by clubs and other groups within a given area with contributions from several parties, emphasis here is placed on the day’s list compiled by a single group of observers who stay together throughout the effort. For many years there have been attempts to compile Big Day lists in Kentucky. Dr. Gordon Wilson was probably the first to publish results of such an effort in Kentucky (KW 15:31-32, 1939). Dr. Wilson’s list of 110 species observed on April 22, 1939 is quite impressive, especially since it was done within a fairly limited area and about two weeks before the normal peak of spring songbird migration. Kentucky’s "official” one day count record of 151 species identified by a single party was accomplished on May 5, 1982. This total has been published by the informal “official” source for such data, the American Birding Association. On May 7, 1990, the authors compiled a party list of 162 species seen and/or heard during the 24 hour period on that date, thus breaking both the published record 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 of 151 species and two other counts of 156 species made by the three of us on May 5, 1988 and by Erwin and Palmer-Ball on May 4, 1989. During our all day count on May 7, 1990, we birded entirely in the western counties of Kentucky, visiting such areas as the Land Between the Lakes, Ballard Wildlife Management Area, and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge. As has been specified in requirements set forth by the American Binding Association, all observers in the party remained together for the entire day, and all identified at least 95% of the total list re¬ corded. All birds were seen or heard within the state of Kentucky and during the 24 hour period of May 7, 1990. Nearly all species were identified visually, but 15 were heard only. Among the total, seven species of herons and egrets, eight species of waterfowl, eleven species of shorebirds, and 31 species of warblers were recorded. It was surprising that out of the 162 species identified, none could be called extremely rare, perhaps the best finds being a Virginia Rail observed at the Ballard Wildlife Management Area and a pair of Lark Sparrows seen in eastern Calloway County. This total is rather impressive, especially when one considers how difficult it can be to observe even a hundred species in a single day in many parts of the state. The combination of a good variety of waterbirds and the peak of passerine migration can result in a much higher total than may be present a couple of weeks earlier or later in the spring. As was hoped by Dr. Wilson in 1940, it is hoped that by publishing this account, a certain amount of motivation can be elicited from readers to participate in their own Big Day counts. You can make a Big Day count in your own yard, your home county, or as most are done, over as much of the state as you wish to try to cover in a single day. — JOE TOM ERWIN, Hamlin, BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., Louis¬ ville, and DON PARKER, Louisville. NEWS AND VIEWS K.O.S. CAN BE PROUD Dr. Burt L. Monroe, Jr., who is a Past-President of the Kentucky Ornithological Society and currently President of the American Ornitholo¬ gists’ Union, was elected as one of the new North American members of the International Ornithological Committee; the election took place at the 20th International Ornithological Congress held in Christchurch, New Zea¬ land, 2-9 December 1990. Dr. Monroe was also commissioned to form and chair a working group of international ornithologists and birders to draw up a list of standardized English names for all bird species worldwide; the group is to present their results at the 21st International Ornithological Congress, which will be held in Vienna, Austria, 21-27 August 1994. Dr. Monroe is also co-author with Charles G. Sibley of a new book entitled “Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World,” published by Yale University Press in New Haven, Connecticut. The book, released at the Congress in New Zealand, is 1,111 pages long and contains the distribu¬ tion of all bird species in the world arranged in the new taxonomy proposed by Sibley, Jon Ahlquist and Monroe in 1988. Also included is a new list of bird numbers, which has been adopted by the American Ornithologists’ Union for its future editions of the “Check-list of North American Birds”, a set of 25 original maps and accompanying gazeteer listing more than 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 3000 localities used in the bird distributions, and an extensive bibliography of ornithological papers dealing with bird systematics. The book is available from Yale Press for $125. ASSOCIATION OF FIELD ORNITHOLOGISTS Interested in the study of birds? You might enjoy membership in the Association of Field Ornithologists (AFO). They offer a terrific quarterly Journal that includes articles on field research techniques and on the life history, ecology, behavior, migration, and zoogeography of birds. The journal includes Spanish abstracts, reviews of scientific articles published in other journals, and an annual supplement, Resident Bird Counts. Mem¬ bers also receive a bimonthly Ornithological Newsletter with job oppor¬ tunities (paid and unpaid) and other scientific bird news, a chance to attend the annual meeting, discounts on mist nets, and more. Send $21 ($15 for students, $45 for institutions) to AFO, c/o Allen Press, Inc., P.O. Box 1897, Lawrence, Kansas 66044, or ask for our brochure (same ad¬ dress).” GARDENING FOR THE BIRDS If yqu are interested in designing and planting a garden that serves as a haven for birds, Cornell Laboratory has the answer for you. For a self-addressed stamped envelope you can learn more about landscaping for birds, including suggestions of plants, birds they will attract, and sources for detailed plant lists and gardening ideas. Write to Cornell Laboratory for Ornithology, EIS Dept. Nl, 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, New York 14850. K.O.S. SPRING MEETING The spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held on April 26-28, 1991 at Carter Caves State Resort Park. Members planning to attend should make their reservations and room accommoda¬ tions directly with the park as soon as possible. Those interested in making a presentation at the Friday evening program should contact Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005. Members are also encouraged to bring one to two slides for the photo-quiz portion of the Friday evening program. ^ f/v7 The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 67 MAY, 1991 NO. 2 IN THIS ISSUE THE WINTER SEASON, 1990-1991, Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. 27 RETURN OF THE WOODBURN LAKES, 1989; Part I, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Gary Boggs 33 THE K.O.S. SPRING MEETING 45 FIELD NOTE . 47 MEWS AND VIEWS 48 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY Founded in 1923 by B. C. Bacon, L President Vice-President Corr. Sec. -Treasurer Rt. #1, I Recording Secretary Councillors: Clell Peterson, Murray Bert Powell, Maceo Dennis Sandlin, Hazard Thomas Stevenson, Stanley Retiring President Librarian Staff Artist . Otley Pindar and Gordon Wilson Virginia Kingsolver, Carlisle Lee McNeely, Burlington Dona Coates ox 124, Cox’s Creek, Kentucky 40013 Fred Busroe, Morehead 1989-91 1989- 91 1990- 92 1990-92 Jim Williams, Lexington Evelyn Schneider, Louisville Ray Harm 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, $5.00; Contributing, $10.00; Student, $3.00; Life, $75.00; Family, $1.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing, or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and requests for back issues should be sent to the treasurer. Editor B. R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Assistant Editor Herbert E. Shadowen, Bowling Green Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W.) Stamm Burt L. Monroe, Jr. THE COVER We thank Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. for the excellent photograph of a Pacific Loon (Gavia pacifica) (see Field Note section). 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 THE WINTER SEASON, 1990-1991 Anne L. Stamm and Burt L. Monroe, Jr. The weather during the winter period was unusually mild. There was no snow, but rainfall was above normal, with flooding in late December and early January, particularly in western Kentucky. The coldest day of the three-month period (December, January and February) was on February 16 when the temperature dipped to 7 degrees and a high of 31 degrees. The mild weather enticed some species to linger beyond normal de¬ parture dates and some to overwinter. It was thought that many of the waterfowl remained on the lakes in Ballard County, where conditions seemed suitable to their needs, without going farther south. Northern finches were scarce, but a few rarities helped to make the season more interesting. Abbreviations: BWMA = Ballard Waterfowl Management Area, Ballard County; BBC = Beckham Bird Club; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Rowan County; CHL = Chaney Lake, Warren County; CBC = Christmas Bird Count; CSL = Cool Springs Lake, Ohio County; EBPP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; KBRC = Kentucky Bird Records Committee; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; LBar = Lake Barkley; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; McEL = McElroy Lake, Warren County; MCFH = Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery; SCL = Sportsman Club Lake, Larue County; ThP = Thurston's Pond, near Monticello, Wayne County. The “transient lakes” are McElroy and Chaney lakes, Warren County. Loons through Herons — A Red-throated Loon was first seen on LBL Kentucky CBC about 1.5 miles above Kentucky Dam along the western side of the lake, Marshall County, on December 15, 16 and 19 (BPB, CP, JTE, Don Parker and Carl Mowery, Jr.). A Pacific/ Arctic Loon sighted on December 15 and 16 in the same areas as the Red-throated Loon is under review by the KBRC. Three Common Loons were still present on the Peabody Sinclair mine in eastern Muhlenberg County on December 2 (BPB, DC) and small numbers lingered through mid-December at Kentucky Lake and LBar but disappeared later (BPB) ; three birds lingered through January 12 at Green River Lake, Taylor County (JE1) ; up to six were reported at CRL between December 10 and February 22 (FB); three at Laurel River Lake, Laurel County on February 10 (JE1) ; and four had returned to Kentucky Lake on February 28 (BPB, RC). Twenty-five to 30 Pied-billed Grebes were still at LPew on December 2, but by December 19 only seven were found; a few remained at various places throughout the state in December but were scarce after the CBCs. A few Horned Grebes were still present in December with two at LPew on December 2 (BPB, DC); small numbers at the western Kentucky lakes through mid-December (BPB) ; four present at Green River Lake on January 12 (JE1) ; a single bird at McEL on February 3 (BPB, DC, RCa) ; and two at Hamlin, Calloway County on February 28 were probably early migrants (JTE, fide CP). The fall migration of Double-crested Cormorants continued through December and early January in western Kentucky with 190 on LBar at Silo Overlook on December 9 (BPB), 270 at LBL, Trigg County south of Silo Overlook, and about 30 in flight near the Overlook on January 11 (CP); single birds were reported in Meade (S, FS) and Muhlenberg (BPB, DC) counties in December, whereas one to three wintered at 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 Louisville (LR) and EBPP (KCa, JCa, LMc) ; and two were at MCFH on January 11 (FB). Great Blue Herons wintered in small numbers, but a concentration of 82 was observed at Hamlin, Calloway County on January 2 ( JTE, fide CP). Waterfowl — An immature Tundra Swan was reported in Pulaski County January 2-11 (JE1). Winter reports of Greater White-fronted Geese included two at CSL on January 1 (RH), nine at McEL February 23 ( BPB, JB, PB, LR, JE1), five at BWMA (CW), and two at CRL on January 9 and 11 (FB, L. Kornman, A. Surmont, S. Bonney) ; the latter is a first record for eastern Kentucky. Numbers of Snow Geese peaked at BWMA with 15,000-18,000 (CW), but only a few were found elsewhere, e.g., 13 at SCL (JE1) on January 12, one noted January 14 at the Owensboro Bypass, Daviess County (KC), and up to 10 birds at McEL on February 23 (BPB). Canada Geese were numerous at BWMA where they peaked at 110,000 (CW); the species was widely distributed during the winter with 1,000 at CSL (KC), 241 at SCL ( J E 1 ) , up to several hundred at McEL (BPB), 78 at LPew (JH), and smaller numbers at Madisonville, Hopkins County (JH). The mild winter and the flooding in western Kentucky in late December and early January made conditions right for ducks, and many remained rather than heading farther south. The duck population at BWMA reached 50,000, the highest number since 1972 (CW). Elsewhere most numbers were relatively small. A few Wood Ducks were observed during the winter at Caperton’s Swamp and along the Ohio River at Louisville (MS) ; eight at BPS in December, but these left and others were seen again in late February (KC) ; and two pairs at CHL (BPB et al.). As many as 12-15 Green-winged Teal were present at LPew on December 2 (BPB, DC), with five still there on December 19 (JH) ; returning migrants arrived at the transient lakes on February 3 and continued throughout the month with no more than six on any one date (BPB). Large numbers of American Black Ducks were observed at BWMA (CW), but there were few reports from elsewhere; 50+ was the peak count at the transient lakes, whereas a similar number from CRL was a local high count (FB). Two Northern Pintail were still present at SCL on January 12 (JE1) ; and present at the transient lakes from January 13 through February, with a | peak of 25-30 birds on February 3 (BPB, DC, RCa). Large numbers of Mallards were at BWMA (CW) and the peak at McEL was 500 (BPB), whereas 38 was a high count at Lentz’s Pond, Louisville on December 15 (JB, PB). Apparently a few Northern Shovelers wintered in Kentucky this year, with four males and two females spending the winter months at Cave Hill Cemetery Lake, Louisville (MS) ; three birds at McEL from January 13 through February, with a peak of nine plus on February 23 (BPB et al.) ; one at CSL on January 15 (KC, AW) ; and two birds as late as December 30 at ThP on December 30 (JE1). Small numbers of Gadwall were noted at LPew, the transient lakes, and CSL. At least 60 American Wigeon were present at Honker Lake, LBL on December 9 and present at the transient lakes from January 13 to the end of February (BPB) ; it was rather unusual to see a male American Wigeon on a small pond in Ten Broeck subdivision, Louisville, with several wild Mallards on February 14 and 15, where wigeons have never before been recorded (S, FS). Canvasbacks peaked at LPew with 70 birds on December 10 (BPB), and 36 were still there on January 15, with three remaining until February 12 (JH) ; smaller numbers were observed on the Ohio River basin at Louisville on December 15 (JB, PB) ; and up to two males were noted at McEL during February (BPB). Redheads were present at McEL from 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 29 February 3-28 in small numbers but peaked on February 23 with 25 + (BPB et al.). Ring-necked Ducks were present at LPew from December 2 to February 20, with the greatest number of 319 on January 15 (JH) ; 25-30+ was the peak count at McEL on February 3 (BPB, DC, RCa) ; five were seen on CSL on January 24 (KC) ; and three were noted at Towhead Island, Louisville on February 25 (MS). A number of Greater Scaup were reported: one at EBPP on December 29 (KCa, JCa, BPB), one at Camp Ernst Lake at Burlington, Boone County on January 2-12 (LMc), an immature male at McEL on January 13 (BPB, D. Ebel), a j large flock (50+) over northern LBar above the dam on February 9 and March 2 (BPB) ; and an adult and one first-winter male at Towhead Island on February 25 (MS). Two male Surf Scoters were noted on the Ohio River at McAlpine Dam, Louisville on January 11 (LR). Common Goldeneye were present at LPew from December 2 to February 12, with only a high of 11 birds on the latter date (JH); and fair numbers at McEL in January and February, with a peak of 25-30 birds (BPB). Buffleheads were present at LPew from December 2 to February 20, with a peak of 30 on December 2 (BPB),; 80-90 birds were noted at CRL on January 3, increasing to approximately 100 on January 11, with about 50 still present on January 19 (FB) ; and a pair was recorded in eastern Jefferson County near Prospect on February 15 (MS). Few Hooded Mergansers were reported: six at LPew on December 11 (JH) and a few at McEL on January 13, February 3 and 23 (BPB). One to two Common Mergansers were found at EBPP on January 5 (KCa, JCa) and January 19 (LMc), whereas one was noted on the Ohio River basin at Louis¬ ville on December 15 (JB, PB). Six Red-brested Mergansers were seen at LPew on December 2 (BPB, DC) a female on the Ohio River at Louisville on December 4 (LR), one at EBPP on January 5 (KCa, JCa), and a female at McEL on January 13 (BPB, D. Ebel). As usual, LPew had the greatest number of Ruddy Ducks — 100 — on December 2 (BPB, DC), and one to three were seen at Green River Lake, Taylor County (JE1), CSL (KC) and McEL (BPB, DC). Raptors — As a result of the mild winter, Black Vultures were present in unusually high numbers in north-central Kentucky; some 80+ were roosting in trees near the Kentucky Utilities Power Plant, Carroll County on December 15 (KCa, JCa, LMc), with 50 still at the site on January 19 (LMc) ; 60+ roosting at EBPP on December 29 (LMc) ; some 30-40 roosting on a tower during the winter along 1-71 in Oldham County (Barry Tungland, fide BPB); 20-30 on a tower along 1-64 in eastern Jefferson County in December (BPB, L. McNeil); 12 in Hart County near Nolin Lake on February 2 (KC) ; four in eastern Spencer County on February 22 (MS) ; two over Cave City in Barren County on February 22 (MStu) ; and two in western Anderson County on February 23 (MS). A flock of 25 Turkey Vultures was noted near Nolin Lake in Hart County on February 2 (KC, AW). The Bald Eagle survey taken in January totaled 169 birds (DY) ; in addition, single birds were seen between December 13 and February 24 in Barren (SK), Bullitt (BBC), Hardin (S, FS), Hart (SK) Warren (BPB, DC, RCa) and Woodford (JR) counties, and one or two birds were reported on numerous occasions at CRL and MCFH between December 10 and February 22 (FB). Northern Harriers were numerous in Ohio County, particularly on January 26 where some 40-45 were counted during a BBC field trip led by KC, and several birds of both sexes also noted in Muhlenberg County on February 3 (MS, BM, MM); one at ThP area on January 5 (JE1) ; and two at SCL on January 12 (JE1). A few Sharp-shinned Hawks were reported; an individual was noted at a feeder 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 in Morehead, Rowan County catching' a European Starling on February 14 and a House Finch on February 16 (FB). Only small numbers of Cooper’s Hawks were reported, and Red-shouldered Hawks continue to be in low numbers. This winter single birds believed to be the “Harlan's” form of the Red-tailed Hawk were seen in southern Ohio County on January 3 )KC, AW) and February 3 (MS, BM, MM); a melanistic Red-tailed Hawk was present in Gallatin County on December 15 (LMc) and another near CSL on February 23 (BPB, LR, JE1, D. Elmore); and a “Krider’s” was seen and photographed at EBPP on January 19 (LMc), while an adult and immature were seen in southern Ohio County in late February (BPB). Rough-legged Hawks were reported from Breckinridge, Muhlenberg and Ohio counties; no less than ten were seen in one spot on the Peabody Sinclair mine in eastern Muhlenberg County on January 1 (BPB, L. Sparks), and 15+ to 20 were the peak numbers in southern Ohio County on January 24 and 26 and February 30 (KC, BBC). An adult Golden Eagle was noted at Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County on February 10 (BPB, R. Klapheke). An adult Peregrine Falcon apparently wintered in downtown Louisville in the vicinity of 5th and Jefferson streets, as one was seen on various dates from December 12 to February 7, and an adult, probably the same bird, perched on the Kentucky Home Life Building on February 9 and the Brown Williamson Tower on Liberty Street on February 11 (CL). A Prairie Falcon was reported on the Paradise CBC, Ohio County on January 1 (JB, PB) and noted again on January 4 (KC) and January 13 (BPB)l Coots through Shorebirds — American Coots remained throughout the winter at LPew (JH), Kentucky Lake near the dam (BPB), and a few at McEL (BPB); however, the birds were not as numerous this winter. Sandhill Cranes were still moving southward through December 30, including a flock of 700 in Hart County (SK), two large flocks over Glasgow, Barren County (RS), and smaller numbers in Grayson and Jefferson counties (KC, JB, JJ); spring migrants began arriving on January 22 with approximately 50 over Cave City in northwestern Barren County (MStu), 88-90+ at McEL on February 3 (JB, PB, BPB), 250 + there on February 23 (JB, PB), 18 on the ground in Mercer County near McAfee on February 24-25 (T. and A. Bloom, fide BPB), 92 birds over southwestern Jefferson County during February 26-28 (RH), and birds passing over Surrey Hills Farm, Jefferson County on two dates in late February with more than 100-120 on one day and about 80 on the other (B. Palmer-Ball, Sr., fide BPB). The concentration of 108 Killdeers in a flooded field along Highway 90 in Wayne County near the Pulaski/Wayne County line on January 5 was unusual for that time of year (JE1). Single yellowlegs were reported from LPew on 2 December as a Lesser (BPB, DC) and on 11 December as a Greater (JH) ; at this point, we are considering both records as | “yellowlegs (sp.?)”, but if accepted as identified, each would be a late date for their respective species, 15 days for the Lesser and ten days for the Greater. Least Sandpipers lingered at Jonathan Creek embayment of Kentucky Lake, Marshall County through December 8 (CP) and 9 (BPB), and the CBC on December 15, with a count of 39 birds. Dunlin re¬ mained at Jonathan Creek in groups of 35-43 through December 15 (CP). Common Snipe were present in December in groups of 17 (JH) and 20 at LPew (BPB), 15-20 at Jonathan Creek on December 9 (BPB), and seven at ThP on January 5 (JE1). A few American Woodcock lingered rather late and one was performing its courtship flight near Jonathan Creek on December 9, and one was flushed near Swan Lake on December 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 31 10 (BPB); spring migrants returned to BPS on February 11 (KC) and at Glasgow on February 15 (RS); others were heard at Eubank, Pulaski County on February 24 (JE1), and at least three were heard in courtship flight in eastern Spencer County on February 27 (MS). Gulls — Bonaparte’s Gulls were fairly widespread with the greatest number at Hamlin — about 5,000 — on December 31 (JTE, fide CP) ; several hundred were present on the western Kentucky lakes in early December, mid-December and January 6 (BPB); some 50+ were at I Green River Lake, near the state park on January 12 (JE1) ; and two were seen at Louisville on the Ohio River on December 14 (LR). Ring-billed Gulls were in lower numbers in late December than last year, but numbers built up by February, especially at the western Kentucky lakes, where it was estimated that approximately 10,000 were present at Kentucky and Barkley dams (BPB) ; 52 was the high count at McAlpine Dam, Louisville (LR); 50+ at Green River Lake on January 12 (JE1) ; 33 on Nolin Lake, Grayson County on February 2 (KC, AW) ; ten on the upper end of Taylorsville Lake, Anderson County on February 22 (MS); and about 200 wintered on CRL, with another 225 noted at MCFH on February 22 (FB). Herring Gulls were in lower numbers in late December compared to last year. An adult Thayer’s Gull was noted at Barkley Dam on January 6 (BPB, M. Bierly et a/.); and a second- year bird on Barkley Dam on February 9 (BPB, LR). Two adults and two first-year Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed (and one of each photographed) in the vicinity of Barkley Dam, Lyon/Livingston counties, on December 15 (BPB, DP) and December 16 (BPB, DP, CP, JTE, C. Mowery, Jr.). Doves through Woodpeckers — A Mourning Dove was incubating on a nest at the University of Louisville campus, Louisville as early as February 13 (MS). Short-eared Owls were not as numerous this winter as compared to last year. As in recent years, the birds were found in both Muhlenberg and Ohio counties, with as many as 30 on January 30 in the latter county (KC); 3-5 were reported in Grayson County (KC) | and three in Green County (LC), both new county records. An injured Long-eared Owl was found on November 27 in Owenton, Owen County and turned over to Raptor, Inc. for rehabilitation (KCa, JCa) ; no others were reported, except for the one on the Paradise CBC in eastern Muhlenberg County on January 1 (BPB). Red-headed Woodpeckers were fairly numerous in late December in the LBL area and fair numbers were present in Mammoth Cave National Park (CBC). Flycatchers through Shrikes — Eight Eastern Phoebes lingered through the CBC period, but the only sighting afterward was one at Science Hill, Pulaski County on February 16 (JE1). Horned Larks were not numerous this year, particularly in December, but numbers increased during January, with large flocks of 500 and 1,000 birds noted in the vicinity of McEL on January 13 and February 3, respectively (BPB); a flock of 150 was seen at U. K. Agricultural Experimental Farm north of Lexington, Fayette County during January (WD). Populations of Carolina Chickadees and Tufted Titmice remained good. Red-breasted Nuthatches were present but in low numbers (e.g., Kentucky had only a total of 21 birds on the 21 CBCs). The Carolina Wren population was up markedly over last winter. Eastern Bluebirds were reported to be up over last winter’s numbers in Rowan County (FB). A single Gray Catbird was observed through December 13 at BPS (KC). In contrast, four Brown Thrashers wintered, one at Madisonville (JH), one in Ohio County (JB, PB), one in Grayson County (JP), and one in Rowan County (FB). Winter records of the I 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 Water Pipit included a flock of 30 on the Otter Creek CBC on December 22 (BPB), but none could be found there in January (S); one at McEL on January 13, six at McEL and 35 at CHL on February 3, 30+ at McEL on February 17 (BPB), and 25-30+ at McEL on February 23 (m.ob.) ; about six birds were also present at Flaherty, Meade County on February 15 (RH). Cedar Waxwings were unusually scarce in most of the state (there were 1,694 fewer individuals this year on the CBC compared with last year). Loggerhead Shrike numbers were stable. Warblers through Finches — Yellow-rumped Warblers were scarce which may in part be attributed to the scarcity of cedar berries. Although two Pine Warblers were recorded on the LBL CBC and one on the Calloway County CBC, none were noted later. An immature Prairie Warbler was reported on the Otter Creek CBC in Meade County along Highway 1238 on December 22 (BPB). An Ovenbiid was observed in a parking lot off Preston Highway, Louisville, on December 15 (RH). A female plumaged Common Yellowthroat was reported on the Otter Creek CBC in Meade County on Fort Knox Reservation on December 22 (BPB). The only Savannah Sparrows reported were the small numbers on the reclaimed strip-mines in southern Ohio and eastern Muhlenberg counties in December and January (BPB). Fox Sparrows were in lower numbers than last winter, as were White-throated Sparrows. A Chipping Sparrow was seen at a feeder in Somerset, Pulaski County on December 9 (JE1). As usual, small numbers of Lapland Longspurs were observed during the period. Two blackbird roosts were found in Kentucky this winter: one with about a half-million blackbirds located in Clark County, and the other in Hardin County near Elizabethtown. Eight Red-winged Blackbirds and 15 Common Crackles were observed at a feeder in Morehead, Rowan County, on February 22 (FB) ; a male Brown-headed Cowbird was also recorded there on January 3 (FB). An adult male Yellow-headed Blackbird was discovered in suburban Elizabethtown on February 16 (BPB). Approximately 500 Rusty Blackbirds were with other blackbirds at LPew on December 2 ; (BPB, DC). Brewer’s Blackbirds showed up in the vicinity of McEL and 50 were noted on January 13, smaller numbers on February 3, and probably five on February 23 (BPB) ; and at least one was observed at Flaherty, j Meade County on February 26 (RH). A female Northern Oriole visited a feeder in Lexington, Fayette County from January 9-21 and was photo¬ graphed (M. Sutton) ; although reported as a “Bullock’s,” it is more likely a “Baltimore” (the record is currently under review by the KBRC). Purple Finches were unusually scarce this winter and practically nonexistent at Glasgow (RS). Pine Siskins were also scarce all across the state; Calloway County was the only place having more than a few. American Goldfinches 1 were present in good numbers. Few Evening Grosbeaks arrived this winter; there were two reports on December 11 at Valley Station in southwestern Jefferson County with one bird at one feeder and two at another (DS), a female at a Brownsville, Edmonson County feeder in late December (DB), and a male at a feeder in Murray, Calloway County on January 12-13 ( WB) ; up to four birds were noted on several occasions between 13 January and 22 February in Morehead, Rowan County (FB) ; the CBCs also showed only a total of six birds on three counts. Nest building of the House Sparrow was noted as early as February 20 at Louisville (MS). Errata — The date of the adult Bald Eagle on BWMA attended by a begging immature (Ky. Warbler 61:5, 1991) should be 3 August, not 31. The record of a flock of eight to ten Red Crossbills heard as they passed overhead in northern Jackson County near Sand Springs on November THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 33 1991 29 (Ky. Warbler 67:9, 1991) should be deleted, at the request of the observer. The report of the five Buff-breasted Sandpipers at Jonathan Creek on September 3, 1990 (Ky. Warbler 67:7, 1990) should be changed to Honker Bay at the request of the observer. Contributors — Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Wally Brines (WB), Dorothy Bullock (DB), Fred Busroe (FB), Joe Caminiti (JCa), K. Caminiti (KCa), Richard Cassell (RCa), R. Cicerello (RC), Kathryn Clay (KC), Dona Coates (DC), Lloyd Curry (LC), Wayne Davis (WD), Jackie Elmore (JE1), Joe Tom Erwin (JTE), James W. Hancock (JH), Richard Healy (RH), Judi Jones (JJ), Steve Kistler (SK), Colin H. Lindsay (CL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Burt L. Monroe, Jr. (BM), Mark Monroe (MM), Brainard Palmer-Ball (BPB), Joyce Porter (JP), Clell Peterson (CP), Lene Rauth (LR), Judith Rozeman (JR), Anne L. Stamm (S), F.W. Stamm (FS), Russell Starr (RS), Mike Stinson (MS), Mitchell Sturgeon (MStu), Donald Summerfield (DS), Charles Wilkins (CW), Alita Wilson (AW), David Yancy (DY). — 9101 Spokane Way, Louisville 40241, and P.O. Box 23447, Anchorage 40223. RETURN OF THE WOODBURN LAKES, 1989; PART I. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Gary Boggs When Dr. Gordon Wilson passed away in 1970, it not only marked the end of the life of one of Kentucky’s foremost ornithologists, it also signified the end of an era spanning more than forty years of intense study of the well-known “transient” or “karst” lakes near Woodburn in southern Warren County. From 1929, when his first summary appeared in The Wilson Bulletin, until his last article summarizing observations at the lakes was published in The Kentucky Warbler in 1968, Dr. Wilson related his observations of waterbirds at these seasonally flooded areas in nearly two-dozen separate articles. A summary of observations for the 1972 season published by Dr. Herbert Shadowen (1972) represents the last major seasonal summary of observations to appear in The Kentucky Warbler. Since that time, only a few accounts of waterbird observations at the Woodburn lakes have been reported. Although Dr. Wilson (1940) has more than adequately described the nature of the Woodburn lakes previously, a brief introduction is in order for those readers unfamiliar with the factors responsible for the presence of this unique situation. The Woodburn lakes are located in the Pennyroyal, a region of Kentucky characterized by extensive underground drainage due to the presence of a very soluble limestone bedrock. This “karst” topography is characterized by little or no surface drainage and many sinkholes and underground passages into which surface water drains directly into the subsurface. The two most well-known lakes, “Chaney” and “McElroy” (as well as many lesser known ones), form as a result of above-normal precipitation. These broad depressions lie below the elevation of much of the surrounding land, and as the subsurface water level rises during periods of heavy rainfall, these areas fill with water. While each lake is fed by one or a small group of major springs, each is also fed by numerous smaller ones. The waters may rise for several weeks after heavy rains. Likewise, the water exits these broad depressions through similar openings to the subsurface, and the lakes may take months to dry up since they are continually rejuvenated by the underground 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 springs as long as the ground water level remains above their lowest elevation. Both Chaney and McElroy Lakes vary widely in extent and duration from year to year, and they may not hold water at all some years. In order for the lakes to persist into summer, an unusually wet spring must occur, followed by near or above normal rainfall afterwards. Only a few times during the 1900s has summer rainfall following an unusually wet spring been sufficient to allow the lakes to persist into the fall. In fact, in an article summarizing waterbird observations from 1950 (Wilson 1951), his best year ever at the lakes, Dr. Wilson says in closing, “If the lakes follow the usual cycles of high and low, it may be half a lifetime before any other such year as 1950 will come.” Let it be known that Dr. Wilson was not only a fine student of ornithology, but also an adept prophet. For in 1989, nearly forty years after his best season, such a year came with both record rainfall and unsurpassed birding at the timeless transient lakes of Woodburn. During the late winter and early spring of 1989, much of Kentucky j received an abnormally large amount of rainfall. Through the first three ! months of 1989 Bowling Green recorded over 24 inches of precipitation (some 10 inches above noimal), representing the fifth wettest January through March period on record (G. Conner, pers. comm.). This unusual | period of excessive rainfall caused a rise in the local groundwater level, \ filling both Chaney and McElroy lakes to levels comparable to those j recorded by Wilson in years like 1937 and 1950 (the seventh and fourth wettest first-quarters of a year on record, respectively (G. Conner, pers. J comm.). Chaney Lake covered more than 250 acres during much of March , while McElroy Lake covered at least 400 acres at the same time. Although J the lakes receded gradually over the next few months, normal periods of j rainfall helped them to persist through early summer. Both would have 1 disappeared in mid-July had it not been for the highly unusual occurrence , of more than 6.25 inches of rainfall within a two-day period 2-3 July. This rainfall caused the lakes to return to their late April levels, and thus assured their life into the early fall, apparently for only the third time since Dr. Wilson began his observations in the mid-1920’s (1935 and 1950 | being the others). In 1989, waterbird study at the lakes was initiated in early February by i Boggs. Palmer-Ball began visiting the lakes on 11 March, when waterfowl j migration was already in full swing. From discussions about the lakes ! with local farmers, it was clear that the water began to rise in January, ! and subsequent to a period of heavy rainfall in late February, they rose to their maximum levels. Through the months of February and March, waterfowl were quite numerous. During the peak of waterfowl migration in March, it was not uncommon to compile a list of 20 species of ducks and geese at the lakes. As of mid-April, many of the ducks had departed, although a peak count of an estimated 4-5,000 American Coots at McElroy 10-16 April was rather 1 impressive. Shorebird numbers built up slowly through April until suddenly during the last few days of the month, everything seemed to arrive at once. One of the highlights of the spring occurred during the weekend of 29-30 April when Palmer-Ball and a small group of KOS members visited the lakes and found several unusual species at McElroy Lake. In the span of less than an hour on 29 April, we observed a flock of 43 Willets j accompanied by four Marbled Godwits, a Black-bellied Plover, at least a dozen Lesser Golden-Plovers (some nearly in full breeding plumage), and a flock of 22 Long-billed Dowitchers. On the following day, Palmer-Ball 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 and Don Parker returned, and although the Willets and godwits had departed, three Western Sandpipers molting into breeding plumage and an Eared Grebe in nearly full breeding plumage were observed. The month of May saw the arrival of more shorebird species and several notable occurrences of gulls and terns. In addition, the first nesting record of Hooded Merganser for south-central Kentucky was recorded at Chaney Lake in late May. Shorebirds continued to be abundant through the month, and on 20 May, a group of ten observers tallied an impressive list of 18 species of shorebirds including a Red-necked Phalarope, a first for Kentucky in spring. In early June an amazing variety of thirteen species of waterfowl were still present on McElroy, and by mid-June many families of Plue-winged Teal and Mallards were present. During the month, a few very unusual records of other waterbirds were made, including observations of Lesser Golden-Plover and Common Snipe. In addition, an incredible variety of ten species of waterfowl remained at McElroy throughout the month! In early July McElroy almost completely dried up, but a two-day, 6.25+ inch period of rainfall on 2-3 July swelled both lakes back to their late April levels. Waterfowl dispersed, and some species could not be relocated. By early July shorebirds were returning, and as the lakes receded through August and early September, perhaps the most spectacular concentration of shorebirds ever witnessed in the state developed. During late August and early September, such unusual shorebirds as the Piping Plover, Red Knot, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher and Red-necked Phalarope were observed. By early September, McElroy was receding quickly, and large changes in its extent were visible even from day to day. On 10 September, several of us were presented with the most unusual experience of viewing 25 species of shorebirds at McElroy; of these, 22 were clearly in view from one spot! By 12 September, McElroy had all but disappeared, and the only water that remained was in a drainage ditch running through the now completely exposed fields. On that date Palmer-Ball and Don Parker were able to capture a female Lesser Scaup and a Horned Grebe (both with injured wings) that had been present on the lake throughout the summer. Both birds were released unharmed on nearby permanent bodies of water. By mid-September, only a few species were still present on the drying mud at McElroy, but a respectable concentration remained at Chaney where the water was slower to disappear. On our last visit to Chaney on 7 October, a few remaining pools of water were still filled with good numbers of more common shorebirds and dabbling ducks. One might ask upon what food source this myriad of waterbirds subsisted while they stayed at McElroy and Chaney lakes, especially since their presence is of such unpredictable and temporary nature. Food for this great number of waterbird species was almost as varied as the diversity of birds themselves. Because the underground spring water feeding the lakes is relatively warm, aquatic plants and algae begin growing profusely, even in late winter when temperatures are still quite cold. During the late winter and spring, many of the birds also grazed on winter wheat growing in fields partially inundated by the waters. It is doubtless that a certain amount of unharvested grain from the previous year’s soybean and corn crops was also present. As the lake levels dropped in late spring and summer, a variety of native plants took hold on large portions of the receding shorelines. Dense mats of spike-rush ( Eleocharis sp.) with scattered patches of smartweed (Polygonum sp.) water-plantain (Alisma subcordatum) , water- 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 primrose ( Ludwig ia sp.), and watergrass ( Eichinochloa sp.) grew up on the exposed flats surrounding both lakes. Once the water receded totally, scattered patches of coontail ( Ceratophyllum sp.), water naiad ( Najas sp.), and pondweed ( Potamogeton sp.) we e exposed on the muddy flats. Aquatic animal life was also abundant. Certain aquatic invertebrates are quick to colonize such temporary waters, and some waterfowl and most of the shorebirds utilized this resource. Two small species of aquatic insects, a back-swimmer bug (Family Notonectidae) and a water boatman (Family Corixidae) were especially abundant in the shallow pools in late summer, as well as a species of aquatic snail (Family Physidae). Mosquito¬ like midges of the Family Chironomidae were also abundant as both larvae in the bottom of the lakes and as emerging adults. The latter were the primary food for the swallows and Black Terns. Although the lakes are well-known for their populations of the small, semi-blind Spring cavefish 1 (Chologaster agassizi) , none of these could be found, although tens of thousands of young black bullhead catfish (Ictalurus melas) were found stranded in isolated pools and in the ditch running through the middle of McElroy on 12 September. These fish were apparently the primary food sou.ce for the gnebes, herons, eoimorants, mergansers and Osprey. In general aspect the lakes have changed little throughout the iecent past, although clearing of surrounding forest land has progressed at a steady rate. For the most part, land use surrounding the lakes has been, and continues to be, dominated by row-crop agriculture with lesser amounts of hay and pasture land. Use of the fields inundated by the lakes is dictated by the unpredictable rising and falling of the ground water. The water that collects in the lakes has nowhere to go, and once in place must recede naturally, so that some years crops may not be planted at all. Although mo.e and more forest surrounding the lakes has been cleared through the years, a large tract of mature timber is still present at Chaney, pioviding cover for species like the Wood Duck. In contrast, the stark openness surrounding McElroy may actually serve to enhance its attractiveness to many migratory waterbirds. While it is doubtless that clearing of some areas has altered the habitat negatively for some species, the overall effect seems to have had little impact. The nature of the vegetation covering and surrounding the lakes at the time of settlement is unclear, but it is highly possible that the periodic inundation of the lower areas in combination with fires (either occurring naturally or set by native Indians) may have kept prairie grasses and herbaceous wetland plants in dominance, thus providing for an abundance of food for migratory waterbirds. In contrast to the relatively recent development of waterbird habitat on the state’s reservoirs and management areas, this habitat (much like the Falls of the Ohio) has been present for many generations of waterbird use. This may explain the aura of tradition one perceives from the surprising abundance and diversity of birds that can be encountered during a good season at the lakes. As vast flocks of waterfowl and shorebirds arrive and depart, or rise from the shallows or shores and wheel in unison, one is overwhelmed by an impression that it is an instinctual attraction that has drawn these birds to the lakes. On the other hand, the use of these areas by so many birds may do nothing more than illustrate the adaptability and opportunistic nature of waterbird migration. More likely than not, it is a combination of these factors that makes for such a unique situation. In many ways, the season of 1989 was quite similar to that reported by Wilson for 1950. Perhaps the most striking contrast was the lack of herons and egrets in 1989 as compared to 1950. Wilson reported eight 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 37 species of herons and egrets in 1950, some in considerable numbers. While we observed most of these species in 1989, observations of most were infrequent and number were quite low in comparison. The effect of widespread DDT use had not taken its toll on bird populations at the time of Wilson’s earlier observations, and wading bird numbers remain relatively low today as they continue to rebound from low levels observed in the 1950s and ’60s. In terms of other species, waterfowl variety and numbers were quite comparable to earlier years except for the unique array of summering birds observed in 1989. The combined shorebird seasons of 1989 were by far the best ever documented from any single location in the state, and they will probably remain a standard for comparison and recollection for many years to come. Unfortunately the lakes dried up before fall shorebird migration was complete and the fall diving duck migration began. Because of this, we were not able to obtain good late dates for shorebirds as Wilson did in 1950, nor were we able to see how diving ducks might respond to the presence of the lakes in fall. Between the two of us, in excess of 80 trips were made between the dates of 3 February and 7 October 1989. Coverage of the lakes on these trips varied tremendously from cursory checks of just one to comprehensive visits of both. Due to several factors, McElroy received most of our attention, especially from late April through mid-June and mid- August through mid-September, when the numbers and variety of birds there were so great that we often found it difficult to make ourselves leave to check Chaney! Never was there a day when something new was not discovered; even during a given day, numbers and variety could change as migrants arrived and departed. In all, we observed 73 species of waterbirds at the two lakes in 1989. This represents considerably more than the 60 species Wilson and others recorded during his all-time best year of 1950. Reported herein is a summary of the observations made by us, or by us and others in our presence. It is doubtless that at least a few other noteworthy sightings were made of which we are not aware. When seemingly pertinent, observations made in 1989 are compared to occurrences and/or abundances as reported by Dr. Wilson, mostly in a summary of Birds of South-Central Kentucky (Wilson 1962) and a supplement to the same (Wilson 1969). Also, a few observations are referred to photographs either accompanying this article or submitted to Anne L. Stamm, editor of the Seasonal Reports feature of The Kentucky Warbler. Information contained herein occasionally differs from that previously reported in The Kentucky Warbler Seasonal Reports, Vol. 65 (3 & 4) and Vol. 66 (1), primarily due to previously unreported sightings supplied by Boggs. Ages were noted for many shorebirds observed during the fall and are indicated as follows: a = adult, j=juvenile, u = unaged. This infomation is included due to its pertinence to an understanding of the timing of peaks of migration for the various species. Other abbreviations used include ca. = approximately, MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park, and sc Ky = south-central Kentucky (as defined by Wilson 1962). COMMON LOON. Gavia immer. Our only record was of a single bird observed by Boggs on McElroy on 22 April. Wilson (1962) regarded this species as “usually rare”, although he seemed to record loons fairly regularly at the lakes during good years. PIED-BILLED GREBE. Podilymbus podiceps. This fairly common grebe was present throughout the entire period of study (mostly at McElroy), with up to ca. 30 birds (28 March) there in spring and 10-15 birds (27 August-2 September) there during fall migration. Single individuals were observed in fall until 12 September on McElroy and 16 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 September on Chaney. Several birds remained on McElroy throughout summer, but nesting was not confiimed. The appearance of a stripe-headed immature at McElroy on 4 July was interpreted as originating from another breeding area although the possibility of nesting there could not be ruled out. Wilson (1940, 1962) found seven nests of this species at McElroy in 1927 and reported summering during a few other years. HORNED GREBE. Podiceps auritus. Small numbers of Horned Grebes were present on McElroy from 11 March through early May with a peak count of 15-20 birds there 25 March-1 April. A single bird with an injured wing remained at the lake through the summer and was seen on every visit. On 12 September, Palmer-Ball and Don Parker were successful in capturing the bird in the small ditch running through the nearly dried up fields. The bird was released on the Ohio River at Louisville where it was thought that it should be able to persist even if it could never fly again. EARED GREBE. Podiceps nigricollis. In 1989, McElroy was host to a number of species considered very rare in occurrence in Kentucky, and several species generally seen in Kentucky only a few times every decade were observed there on more than one occasion during the year. One such species was the Eared Grebe. Single birds were observed on 30 April and 14 May and presumed to be different individuals since none were seen on several dates in between. Both birds were in breeding plumage, the latter being particularly immaculate in appearance. On 27 August, two birds in non-breeding plumage were studied closely and compared with the summer¬ ing Horned Grebe, which was then molting out of breeding plumage. This rather early “fall” date is apparently representative of a small, but perceptible movement of this species that has become slightly more prevalent in the midwest over the past decade (B. Peterjohn, pers. comm.). Wilson (1962, 1969) did not report this species from sc Ky, but 1-2 birds were observed at McElroy in mid-May 1984 (Mason 1985). DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT. Phalacrocorax auritus. Cormo- | rants were present at McElroy on several dates. During the spring ; migration, a flock of 32 birds was observed resting on the lake on 20 February, 11 birds were seen there on 23 April, and a single bird was j present on 29 April. In late summer, a single cormorant was observed 3, 6 1 August and on all but one visit to the lake 27 August-8 September. Wilson (1962, 1969) noted only ten records from sc Ky. This species has increased | in Kentucky as a transient over the past decade, and the relatively large number of observations in 1989 can probably be attributed to this increase. LEAST BITTERN. Ixobrychus exilis. One bird was seen perched on a flooded farm fence at McElroy on 16 July. This bird was considered to be a post-breeding transient, even though the date was rather early for a “fall” migrant. Wilson (1940) listed one 1939 record from McElroy and regarded the species as very rare in sc Ky and possibly nesting only at , MCNP (Wilson 1962). GREAT BLUE HERON. Ardea herodias. Small numbers of Great Blue Herons were observed at both lakes in spring and from late summer into fall. Our peak counts were six birds at McElroy on 19 August and 10 September, and four birds at Chaney on 3, 13 August. On 7 October, three birds were still present at Chaney. These numbers are comparable to those reported by Wilson (1951) in 1950. GREAT EGRET. Casmerodius albus. At McElroy, a single Great Egret came to roost with a flock of Cattle Egrets on the evening of 29 April. Otherwise, the only sightings were of single birds at Chaney on 23 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 May and 6 August. Wilson (1962) regarded this species as “sometimes common when the lakes remain into late summer. SNOWY EGRET. Egretta thula. A single bird was observed at ; McElroy on 20 May and at Chaney on 23 May (probably same bird). Wilson (1951, 1962) recorded this species at the lakes on a number of occasions, including 1950 when up to 20 were present. CATTLE EGRET. Bubulcus ibis. A flock of 33 birds came to roost at McElroy on the evening of 29 April. Otherwise, the only sighting was of a single bird there on 20 May. Wilson (1962, 1969) noted this species in the vicinity of the lakes on a few occasions, including the first state record on 9 November 1960. Since that time the Cattle Egret has become ; regular as a transient and summer resident in the state. GREEN-BACKED HERON. Butorides striatus. Somewhat surpris¬ ingly, this species was not abundant at the lakes in 1989. Only a few birds were seen in spring and summer (mostly at Chaney), but as many as nine birds were present at McElroy during mid-August and as many as seven birds were seen at Chaney during August and September. Wilson (1962) regarded this species as “abundant in late summer when the lakes remain.” We are not sure why Green-backed Herons were not as numerous in 1989; it is possible that reduced cover, especially at McElroy where very few trees remain, was responsible for the decrease. BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON. Nycticorax nycticorax. The only records were for single adult birds observed at McElroy on 29 June and 13 August. This is another species of heron that Wilson (1962) reported in much greater frequency and abundance than we observed in 1989. TUNDRA SWAN. Cygnus columbianus. Boggs observed a group of four birds (3 adults, 1 immature) at McElroy 20-25 February. Wilson (1962, 1969) did not list this species from sc Ky, but Shadowen (1972) observed the species at McElroy in 1972. GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE. Anser albifrons. A flock of 19 birds was present at McElroy 18 March-1 April representing one of only a few records of this rare transient east of Land Between the Lakes and apparently the first for sc Ky. SNOW GOOSE. Chen caerulescens. This relatively uncommon species was observed on a few dates during spring migration from 28 February to 1 April with a peak count of 61 birds (40 Snows/21 Blues) 28 February-8 March. Wilson (1962) recorded this species on a number of dates through the years, most often in spring, but occasionally in fall. CANADA GOOSE. Branta canadensis. This species was observed sporadically throughout the year. Small numbers were present from early February through early April with a peak count of 15 birds in early March. In mid- June, a brood of five downy young being attended by a pair of adults appeared, apparently providing a first local nesting record. This family group remained on the lake until the young could fly in late July. During August and early September, up to 26 geese were observed on McElroy and then on Chaney until 7 October. WOOD DUCK. Aix sponsa. Woodies were present virtually through¬ out the period of study. In spring, small numbers were observed from 28 February through May (mostly at Chaney). Broods of small young were observed on both lakes in late May and June but were most prevalent on Chaney where the woodland provides better habitat for this species. Several dozen were present on Chaney in late August while small numbers appeared periodically on McElroy through mid-August. 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 67 GREEN-WINGED TEAL. Anas crecca. This small dabbler was present on both lakes in spring from 11 March to late April with peak counts of 12 birds at McElroy on 15 March and 10 birds at Chaney on 23 April. Three males lingered at McElroy through mid-May and a single male was last observed there on 1 June, representing a new spring departure date for Kentucky. At least one bird returned to McElroy as early as 27 August where a few were seen until the lake dried up in mid- September, and four birds were still present at Chaney on 7 October. AMERICAN BLACK DUCK. Anas rubripes. Black ducks were present on both lakes in spring from 3 February to 30 March with a peak count of ca. 100 birds at McElroy on 21 February. In addition, a bird appeared at McElroy on 20 May followed by a pair of birds later in May (these individuals probably came from nearby smaller bodies of water that finally dried up). The same birds (or others) were seen off and on through 10 September at McElroy and until 7 October at Chaney. MALLARD. Anas platyrhynchos. This species was present throughout the year until the lakes dried up in September and October. Mallards nested prolifically on McElroy and in smaller numbers on Chaney, with over a dozen broods seen on the former and at least two on the latter. Peak counts occurred in late summer with more than 200 birds observed on both lakes in late August and September. NORTHERN PINTAIL. Anas acuta. This early spring migrant was present on both lakes 21 February to 1 April with a peak of 22 birds at McElroy on 1 March. Two birds returned to McElroy on the unusually early date of 8 August where they were observed through 22 August. This is a duck that Wilson (1962) regarded as “common to abundant” when the lakes were large in early spring. BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Anas discors. This common dabbler was present throughout the year once the first migrants arrived in spring. A few males were first observed on 18 March, after which numbers built up to a relatively unspectacular peak of 100+ birds at McElroy 7-23 April. Numbers declined during May, but at the end of the month several dozen birds, including at least two broods of downy young, were still present on McElroy. During June broods of young were scattered across the lake, with perhaps more than 200 birds representing a dozen or more family groups. Although not confirmed, breeding was probably also successful at Chaney. During August numbers began to build up at McElroy as fall migrants supplemented the nesting population, and during early September some 400-500 or more birds graced the shallows of the drying lake and wheeled overhead in spectacular flocks when frightened. On 12 September, | a late brood of five or six nearly full-grown young was still present along the ditch running through the middle of the fields. By 16 September all had departed from the muddy flats at McElroy, but a few birds were present at Chaney as late as 7 October. In addition to breeding at the two well- known lakes, the species nested at a similar “transient” lake several miles to the southwest in Simpson County, where two downy broods of young being accompanied by females were seen on 6 June. This observation provided the first nesting record of Blue-winged Teal for Simpson county. Wilson (1962) reported nesting on four previous occasions at the lakes. NORTHERN SHOVELER. Anas clypeata. Shovelers were present on both lakes during spring migration from 21 February into early May with a peak count of ca. 200 birds on McElroy 28 February-8 March. Surprising numbers remained on the lake throughout May with at least a dozen birds present during the first week and 3-4 pairs still present at the end of the 1991 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 41 I month. Two males were observed on 6 June, and a pair of birds lingered there until at least 13 June. Four birds in female/immature plumage reappeared on MeElroy on 17 July, and the species was seen on both lakes on 22 July (1 bird at Chaney, 3 at MeElroy). Small numbers (