CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 924 987 295 634 All books are subject to recall after two weeks DATE DUE iY)an n 9a- K4 i\i'7 t/.73-'7k Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2017 with funding from BHL-SIL-FEDLINK https://archive.org/details/kentuckywarbler7376kent The Kentucky Warbler <37 J (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) 1 73 _ VOL 73 FEBRUARY, 1997 NO. 1 !’/ IN THIS ISSUE THE FALL SEASON, 1996, Fred M. Busroe . 3 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT, 1996-1997, Blaine R. Ferrell . 12 AVIFAUNA USE OF CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS IN THE CAVE RUN LAKE AREA, April Haight and Brian C. Reeder . 24 FIFTH REPORT OF THE KENTUCKY BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE. Lee McNeely, Secretary . 28 FIELD NOTES . 29 NEWS AND VIEWS . 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corn Secretary . Treasurer . Recording Secretary . Councillors: Mark Bennett, Russellville Steve Kistler, Munfordville Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough Retiring President . Staff Artist . . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely PO. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Neil Eklund, Danville . 1996-1998 . 1996-1998 . 1997-1999 . 1997-1999 . Herbert Clay, Jr., Falls of Rough . 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, $8.00; Contributing, $15.00; Student, $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W. Stamm) Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely PO. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER We thank Ray Harm for this excellent painting of a Peregrine Falcon, Falco peregrinus. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 THE FALL SEASON, 1996 Fred M. Busroe Weather conditions were erratic during the period with near record high temperatures on 1 November, to lows near 20 degrees on 10 and 1 1 November. Louisville had 3.5 inch¬ es above normal rain with a rain-snow mix on 1 1 November and a dusting of snow on 14 November in other areas of the state. Fair numbers of Sandhill Cranes were reported across the state with a normal warbler movement in mixed flocks statewide. However, shorebirds were scarce in western Kentucky because high water levels in the TVA lakes reduced the available habitat. Abbreviations - Alex = Alexandria, Campbell County; AJJ = A.J. Jolly Park, Campbell County; Bal = Ballard WMA, Ballard County, Bar = Barren River Reservoir, Barren County; Bel = Bellevue, Campbell County; Bern = Bemheim Forest, Nelson County; BNP = Beargrass Nature Preserve, Louisville, Jefferson County; Bow = Bowling Green, Warren County; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; CKWA = Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, Madison County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; Cre = Joe Creason Park, Louisville, Jefferson County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Rowan County; DC = Drake’s Creek, Warren County; EBP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; Falls = Falls of the Ohio, Louisville, Jefferson County; FtT = Fort Thomas, Campbell County; Fre = Freeman Lake, Hardin County; GRL = Green River Lake, Adair County; Gri = Griffith Park, Warren County; Han = Hanson, Hopkins County; Hart = Hart County; Jon - Jonathan Creek, Marshall County; Lak = Laketon Boat Ramp, Carlisle County; L#9 = Lake #9, Fulton County; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; Log = Logan County; Mar = Markland Dam, Gallatin County; McE = McElory Lake, Warren County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park, Edmonson County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; MCP = Middle Creek Park, Boone County; Mos = Mosley’s Pond, Logan County; OLF = Outer Loop Landfill, Jefferson County; ORB = Ohio River Basin, Jefferson County; Pea = Peabody Stripmine Management Area, Ohio County; Pet = Petersburg, Boone County; Rav = Raven Run Sanctuary, Fayette County; RH = Rabbit Hash, Boone County; Ric = Richmond, Madison County: Riv = Riverside Sanctuary, Jefferson County; RNWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; Sas = Sassafras Ridge, Fulton County; Sha - Shanty Hollow Lake, Warren County; Sil = Silo Overlook, Land Between the Lakes, Lyon County; Slo = Slough Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County; Spi = Spindletop Farm, Fayette County; SSM = Silver Springs Marsh, Warren County; Tay = Taylor Park, Campbell County; Ten = Ten Broeck Subdivision, Louisville, Jefferson County; TSP = Tom Sawyer State Park, Louisville, Jefferson County; Wav = Waverly Park, Jefferson County; West = Westvaco Management Area, Hickman County. Red-Throated Loon — Two on 24 November and one on 27 November at GRL (DR). Common Loon — Thirty-three on 1 November at CRL (FB); 3 on 11 November at Jon (CP); 1 1 on 12 November, 14 on 14 November and 28 on 21 November at CRL (FB); 2 on 23 November at Fre (MB, MS); 3 on 23 November in Marshall County (Hap). Pied-billed Grebe — The numbers ranged from 9 to 27 at LPew during October and November (JWH). Horned Grebe — Two on 2 November at RH (LMc); 8 on 1 November and one on 3 November ORB (JB, PB); 16 at LPew on 16 October (JWH); approx. 35 at various locations of Kentucky Lake on 17 November (MB); 3 on 23 November at GRL (MB); 8 on 23 November at Fre (MB, MS); 13 on 23 November on Kentucky Lake (Hap). 4 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 American White Pelican — 78 on 16 August at Hie (CP); 45 on 30 August at L#9 (CP); 3 on 3 October on Ohio River, Covington, Kenton County (JC); 80 on 14 October at L#9 (CP); a small flock was at Fre on 29 October (JB, PB); one on 29 October at Fre (DR); 1 1 on 28 November at Fre (MB). Double-crested Cormorant — 550+ on 7 September at Sil (CP); 24 on 24 September at Lak (CP); 6 on 19 September at Bar (DR); 75 on 8 October at DC (DR); 30 on 27 October at Falls (JB, PB); 27 on 28 October at Falls (MB); one to seven at MCFH during the season (FB); 5 on 16 November at LPew (JWH); 25 above Barkley Dam on 17 November (MB); one on 23 November at Fre (MS); 250+ at Sil on 23 November (CP). American Bittern — One on 13 October at Slo (MB). Least Bittern — One on 3 and 4 September at MCFH (FB, LK). Great Blue Heron — 28 on 9 August at Falls (JB, PB); fewer than normal at MCFH but increasing to about 25 birds (FB); one to 5 were at LPew during the season (JWH); 100+ on 16 August near Hie (CP). Great Egret — One on 4 August at the OLF (JB, PB); 1 1 in Carlisle and Ballard Counties on 8 August (CP); 150 on 16 August near Hie (CP); 100+ on 30 August at RNWR (CP); 3 on 31 August at L#9 (MB); one on 21 September at EBP (LMc); num¬ bers lower than last year at MCFH, one to four during August and September (FB). Snowy Egret — Eight on 16 August near Hie (CP). Little Blue Heron — Twelve on 16 August near Hie (CP); 100+ were mostly first year birds on 30 August at RNWR (CP); 2 on 31 August at L#9 (MB). Cattle Egret — Three on 30 August at RNWR (CP). Green Heron — Two on 10 August at OLF (JB, PB); 3 on 18 September at Riv (JB, PB); last observation at MCFH on 24 September (FB). Black-crowned Night-Heron — 32 on 9 August at Falls (JB, PB); one immature on 21 September at EBP (LMc). Snow Goose — 5(1 white + 4 blue) on 14 October at Bal (CP); 6 on 18 November on Gre (DR). Canada Goose — 400+ at Bal on 14 October (CP); 88 at LPew on 15 November and 33 on 29 November (JWH); flock of 50 on 28 November over Snyder Freeway east of Louisville (S). Wood Duck — 75 to 100 on 1 1 October and 128 on 26 October at Mos (MB). American Black Duck — 8 on 27 November at LBL (JTE, MM, CP). Mallard — 200 on 19 November at Jon (CP); 25 on 27 November at LBL (JTE, MM, CP). Blue-winged Teal — Six on 29 August, 6 on 10 September, 5 on 13 September, 6 on 28 September and 5 on 19 October at MCFH (FB); 45 near Earlington, Hopkins County on 1 1 September (JWH); 50 on 29 September at Jon (CP); 12 on 14 October at Bal (CP); 6 to 8 from 26 October to 10 November on farm pond near Pet (LMc). Northern Shoveler — One on 27 September and two on 28 September at MCFH (FB); 12 on 19 November at Bal (CP). Gadwall — 30 on 22 October and 3 on 3 November at Falls (JB, PB); approxi¬ mately 10 at Goose Pond, CRL from 20 October to 30 November (FB). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 5 American Wigeon — Approximately 20 at Goose Pond, CRL during November (FB); 9 on 19 November at Bal (CP); 10 on 30 November at Fre (MS). Canvasback — One on 15 November at Gri (DR); 27 on 23 November and 80+ on 27 November at Bal (CP). Redhead — Eight on 25 October and 2 on 16 November at LPew (JWH); 16 on 20 November at CEL (LMc). Ring-necked Duck — One on 27 October and one on 3 November at ORB (JB, PB); 80 on 15 November at LPew (JWH); 12 on 28 November at Fre (MB); 14 on 27 November at LBL (JTE, MM, CP). Lesser Scaup — Two on 3 November at ORB (JB, PB); 100+ on 23 November on Kentucky Lake (Hap, CP). White- winged Scoter — One 17 November at the Kentucky Dam Marina (MB); one on 23 November at LBL, Trigg County (Hap, CP). Bufflehead — 21 on 1 November on Ohio River near Louisville (JB, PB); one on 1 November but had increased to 75 by the end of November at MCFH (FB); one on 2 November at Mar (LMc). Hooded Merganser — 9 on 19 November at Jon (CP); 285 on Energy Lake, LBL on 30 November (MB). Red-breasted Merganser — 1 1 on 21 November at FtT (FR); 2 on 24 November at GRL (DR). Ruddy Duck — 15 on 31 October at Falls and 25 on Ohio River, Louisville (JB, PB); 4 on 9 November near Union, Boone County (LMc); 10 to 42 on LPew during November (JWH); 72 on 11 November at Jon (CP); 4 on 23 November at Fre (MS); 14 at Bar on 23 November (MB); 100+ on 23 November at Jon (CP); 4 on 26 November at Tay (FR); one on 29 November at Mel (FR). Black Vulture — 2 on 17 August at Falls (JB, PB); 50+ on 21 September at EBP (LMc); two on 23 November at GRL (MB). Turkey Vulture — 12 on 7 September near Lak (CP); latest number was 125 at MCFH on 1 November (FB); 250+ on 23 November at Bar (MB). Osprey — Four on 19 September at Bar (DR); one on 22 September at Mel (FR); one on 3 October at Bow (DR); 3 on 21 October at Falls (MB); one on 4 and 27 October and 3 November at Falls (JB, PB); two on 16 October at Bar (DR); one at MCFH from 15 August until 1 October (FB). Mississippi Kite — One on 14 October northeast of Phillipy, Fulton County (CP). Bald Eagle — One adult on 8 August at Bal (CP); the earliest fall date at MCFH was on 24 August with one adult and one immature observed; one adult and one imma¬ ture on 4 October at Hie (FB); one immature on 1 1 October at Sha (DR); 2 on 13 October at Slo (JB, PB); one on 27 October at Falls (JB, PB); one on 13 November at Mar (MB); 3 on 18 November and one on 24 and 27 November at GRL (DR); 2 on 3 1 November at GRL (MB). Northern Harrier — One female on 4 October at Sas (FB); 2 on 26 October at McE (JB, PB); two ( 1 m. and 1 f.) on 1 November at McE (MS). Sharp-shinned Hawk — One on 13 August in Metcalfe County (MS); one at Fre on 6 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 13 November (MB). Cooper's Hawk — Two on 11 August at Rav (FR); one on 25 August and 15 September at BNP (JB, PB); one on 12 October at Slo (MB). Rough-legged Hawk — 6 on 19 November at Pea (DR). Golden Eagle — One immature on 27 November GRL (DR). Peregrine Falcon — One on 17 August and on 3 November at Falls (JB, PB); one on 1 October at MCFH (FB); one on 13 November at Falls (MB). Wild Turkey — 10 on 17 September in northern Log (MB); 18 on 23 November at Ber (JB, PB); 6 on 27 November at Barkley State Park, Marshall County (CP). Yellow Rail — One at McE from 19 to 28 October. First discovered by DR but also seen by JB, PB, MB, BPB, TD, JE, MH, JP, and MT. Documentation has been sub¬ mitted. Sora — One on 13 October at Slo (JB, PB); one on 13 October at Slo (MB); one on 14 October at McE (DR). Sandhill Crane — 250 over Eastern Jefferson County on 9 November (DN); 3 1 on 1 1 November at Spi (JW); 45+ on 1 1 November at MCFH (DF, AS); 150 on 12 November over southeastern Louisville (JB, PB); 51 on 16 November at DC (DR); 700+ on 19 November at Pea (DR); 18 on 21 November in Barren County (MS); 14 on 23 November at Bern (JB, PB); 25 on 26 November at Richmond (GR). American Coot — The high number at LPew was 1,445 on 25 October (JWH); 250+ on 30 October and 23 November at Fre (MS); rafts of 150 to 250 birds were seen at CRL from 1 to 15 November (FB); 60 on 19 November at Jon, 30 on 23 November at Jon and on Kentucky Lake (CP). One of the poorest shorebird seasons in many years in western Kentucky due to high water in the lakes (CP). American Golden Plover — Two on 3 September, one on 20 and 2 1 September at MCFH (FB); 26 on 22 October at McE (DR). Semipalmated Plover — Numbers of 5 to 10 at MCFH from 17 August to 21 September (FB); 4 on 31 August at Lak (MB). Killdeer — Numbers were higher than usual at MCFH with as many as 200 birds being seen several occasions during the season (FB); 66 on 8 August at Bal (CP); 40 on 23 November at Jon (CP). American Avocet — One on 15 September at Bar (DR); 6 on 24 September at Falls (JB, PB). Greater Yellowlegs — 1 on 31 August at Falls (JB, PB); one on 7 September near Lak (CP); one at MCFH on 13 and 14 September (FB). Lesser Yellowlegs — Three at MCFH from 17 August to 13 September (FB). Solitary Sandpiper — One on 24 August, 3 and 10 September at MCFH (FB); 2 to 3 during late August in central Log (MB). Spotted Sandpiper — One on 8 August in Fulton County (CP); one on 17 and 31 August at Falls (JB, PB); approx. 50 at Lak on 31 August (MB). Ruddy Turnstone — 6 on 31 August at Lak (MB). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 7 Sanderling — One on 17 August at MCFH (FB); 8 on 31 August at Lak (MB). Semipalmated Sandpiper — Ten to 25 at MCFH from 17 August to 14 September (FB); 10 on 31 August at Lak (MB). Western Sandpiper — Five on 5 September and 3 on 10 September at MCFH (FB); one at Jon on 23 November (CP). Least Sandpiper — Ten to 25 at MCFH from 17 August to 21 September (FB); 75 in central Log on 21 August (MB); 70+ on 3 1 August at Lak (MB); 3 on 7 September near Lak (CP). White-rumped Sandpiper — One on 13 September, 3 on 17 October and 5 on 18 October at MCFH (FB). Baird’s Sandpiper — One on 3 1 August at Lak (MB); 3 on 10 September at MCFH (FB). Pectoral Sandpiper — Six on 15 August, 15 on 21 August and 14 on 2 September in central Log (MB); 8 on 30 August near L#9 (CP); 35 on 3 and 5 September at MCFH (FB); 6 near Lak on 7 September (Hap, CP, SS); 15 on 13 September, 4 on 14 September, 10 on 15 October, 10 on 17 October, 11 on 19 October and 6 on 29 October at MCFH (FB). Dunlin — 6 on 4 October at Sas (FB); 3 to 8 were present at MCFH from 1 1 October until 19 November (FB). Stilt Sandpiper — Five on 24 August, one on 3 September at MCFH (FB); one on 7 September near Lak (Hap, CP, SS); two at MCFH on 13 September (FB). Buff-breasted Sandpiper — 1 on 31 August at Falls (JB, PB); 5 on 31 August at Lak (MB); 2 on 2 September at MCFH (JW); 18 on 7 September near Lak (Hap, CP, SS). Common Snipe — 20 at Slo on 12 October (MB); 5 on 16 November at LPew (JWH); 1 was present at Jon on 23 November (Hap, CP). Bonaparte's Gull — One on 12 November at MCFH (FB); 50 on 19 November at Jon (Hap, JTE, MM, CP); 7 on 19 November and 3 on 21 November at MCFH (FB); 12 at Fre and 3 at GRL on 23 November (MB). Ring-billed Gull — 20 on 23 October at Fre (MS); late in arriving at MCFH, first observed on 12 November (FB); 40 to 100 were seen between 1 1 and 27 November at Jon (Hap, JTE, MM, CP); 50 on 26 November at Tay and 20 on 29 November at Mel (FR). Herring Gull — One on 1 October at Falls (JB, PB); 8 at Jon on 19 November (Hap, JTE, MM, CP); approx. 25 on 24 November at Kentucky Dam (MB). Thayer’s Gull — A first year bird was seen near Kentucky Dam on 17 and 31 November (MB). Documentation to be submitted. Lesser Black-Backed Gull — An immature bird was seen on 4 and 5 October during a KOS field trip as well as being observed on 17 and 30 November (MB). Caspian Tern — 13 on 31 August at Falls (JB, PB); 2 on 31 August at Lak (MB). Forster’s Tern — 80 on 8 November and 40 on 23 November at Jon (Hap, CP); one on 30 November at Jon (MB). Least Tern — Twelve on 30 August at L#9 (CP) and 3 on 7 September near Lak THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 (Hap, CP, SS); 4 on 31 August at Lak (MB). Yellow-billed Cuckoo — One on 7 September at TSP and 3 on 5 October at Bern (JB, PB); one on 21 September at MCNP (MB). Eastern Screech-Owl — Two calling on 17 August at Bel (FR); one seen on 3 and 9 September in Hart (MS). Great Horned Owl — Two seen and heard in Hart throughout the season (MS); 2 on 29 August in central Log (MB). Barred Owl — One seen on 1 to 10 August and on 13 to 16 August near Han (BW); 4 on 26 October at Mos (MB). Short-eared Owl — One seen on 1 November at McE (MS); one on 19 November at Pea (DR). Common Nighthawk — 50+ on 4 September over a field in central Log (MB); 6 in Fulton County on 14 October (CP); last observed on 16 October at DC (DR). Chuck- will’ s-widow — Last heard in Pleasant View Marsh, Hopkins County on 25 August (JWH). Whip-poor-will — Last recorded near Han on 22 September (BW). Rufous Hummingbird — A tagged female was observed on many occasions com¬ ing to a feeder near Cadiz, Trigg County from 1 1 November until the end of the season. Ruby-throated Hummingbird — Last date at Han was 18 September (BW); last date in Warren County was on 1 1 October (DR). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker — One on 28 August at BNP and 1 on 20 October at MCNP (JB, PB). Olive-sided Flycatcher — One on 14 September at Bern (JB, PB). Acadian Flycatcher — One 1 October at Bel (FR). Great-crested Flycatcher — Two on 14 September at Bern (JB, PB). Horned Lark — 10 on 5 August in eastern Jefferson County and 15 in Bow (JB, PB); 50+ on 21 August in central Log (MB); 250+ on 1 November at McE (MS). Tree Swallow — Approx. 100 on 4 October at Port area. Hie (FB); 2000+ in Fulton County on 14 October (CP). Northern Rough-winged Swallow — Approx. 150 on 4 October at Port area. Hie (FB); 1000+ on 14 October in Fulton County (CP); 8 on 19 October at West (CM, KM). Bank Swallow — 12 on 25 August at Sha (MB); approx. 50 on 4 October at Port area. Hie (FB). Cliff Swallow — Approx. 60 on 4 October at Port area. Hie (FB). Barn Swallow — Approx. 200 on 4 October at Port area. Hie (FB). Fish Crow — Five on 8 August near Murphy Pond, Obion Creek Management Area (CP); 2 on 1 1 November at Jon (CP). Brown Creeper — Two on 24 October at TSP (JB, PB). Winter Wren — One on 5 October at BNP (JB, PB); one on 14 October at SSM (DR); 3 on 19 October at MCP (LMc). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 9 Sedge Wren — Two on 12 October at JCP (JB, PB). Marsh Wren — One on 12 October at Slo (MB); one on 20, 25 and 30 October at Cha (DR). Golden-crowned Kinglet — One on 20 October at MCNP (JB, PB). Ruby-crowned Kinglet — One on 13 September and eight on 5 October at BNP (JB, PB); one on 16 November at LPew (JWH). Gray-cheeked Thrush — One on 15 September at MCP (LMc); two on 28 September at BNP (JB, PB). Swainson’s Thrush — 4 on 15 September at BNP (JB, PB); one on 17 September in central Log (MB); one on 1 October at Bel (FR). Hermit Thrush — One in central Log on 1 October (MB); one on 1 1 October at Bern (JB, PB). Eastern Bluebird — 4 on 24 November at TSP (JB, PB). American Pipit — 4 on 14 October at McE (DR); 10 on 15 October, 30 on 17 October, 15 on 18 and 19 October at MCFH (FB); one on 19 October at West (CM, KM); one on 23 November at Jon (CP). Cedar Waxwing — 60+ on 1 1 October at Bem (JB, PB). Loggerhead Shrike — At least eight were observed on five trips to Fulton County dur¬ ing the season (CP). White-eyed Vireo — One on 7 September at TSP (JB, PB). Solitary Vireo — One on 27 September at TSP (JB, PB). Yellow-throated Vireo — 2on 1 3 September at Bem (JB,PB); one on 21 September at MCNP (MB). Warbling Vireo — One on 3 September at LPew (JWH). Philadelphia Vireo — One on 31 August, one on 13 September and six on 15 September at BNP (JB, PB). Warbler migration in northern Kentucky (Boone and surrounding counties) was above average during September (LMc); movement at MCFH was spotty (FB). Blue- winged Warbler — 2 on 24 August and 7 September, also 3 on 13 September at BNP (JB, PB). Golden- winged Warbler — One on 1 September and 2 on 13 September at BNP (JB, PB); 3 on 14 September at Bem (JB, PB); two on 15 September and one on 28 September at BNP (JB, PB); 2 on 17, 20 and 24 September at DC (DR). Tennessee Warbler — 2 on 1 September at BNP (JB, PB); 7 on 14 September at Bem (JB, PB); 3 on 19 September in central Lxig (MB). Nashville Warbler — One on 8 and 14 September at Bem (JB, PB). Northern Parula — One on 13 and 15 September at BNP (JB, PB). Chestnut-sided Warbler — One on 31 August, 6 on 1 September and 7 on 7 September at BNP (JB, PB); one on 19 September in Lng and 2 on 21 September at MCNP (MB). 10 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Magnolia Warbler — Two on 31 August, 8 on 1 September and 5 on 7 September at BNP ( JB, PB); 7 on 19 September in central Log and one on 21 September at MCNP (MB). Cape May Warbler — Two on 8 September at Wav and 2 on 14 September at Bern (JB, PB). Black-Throated Blue Warbler — One male was seen on 7 September at MCP (LMc). Yellow-rumped Warbler - Four on 20 October at MCNP (JB, PB); 11 on 26 October at Mos (MB); flocks of 50 to 75 were present at MCFH from mid-October to mid- November (FB). Black-throated Green Warbler — 8 on 19 September in central Log (MB); 4 on 19 October at West (CM, KM). Blackburnian Warbler — Three on 8 September at Wav and 4 on 14 September at Bern (JB, PB); one on 17 September in central Log (MB). Pine Warbler — One on 21 September at MCNP (MB). Prairie Warbler — One on 25 August and 12 September at TSP (JB, PB). Palm Warbler — Three on 22 October at MCFH (FB); one at Mos on 26 October (MB). Bay-breasted Warbler — Nine at MCNP on 21 September (MB). Black-and-White Warbler — Three on 21 September at MCNP (MB); one on 1 and 7 September at BNP and 2 on 2 September at TSP (JB, PB). American Redstart — Four on 1 and 7 September at BNP (JB, PB). Ovenbird — Four on 28 September at BNP (JB, PB); one on 21 October at Cha (MB). Mourning Warbler — One at Floyd’s Fork County Park on 21 September (JB, PB). Hooded Warbler — One on 7 September at BNP and TSP (JB, PB). Wilson’s Warbler — One on 31 August, four on 1 September, one on 7 and 13 September at BNP (JB, PB); one 2 September at MCP (LMc). Canada Warbler — One on 1 September and 2 on 7 September at BNP (JB, PB). Scarlet Tanager — Two were present at Bern on 14 September (JB, PB); one near LPew on 26 November (JWH). Blue Grosbeak — A pair with juveniles on 1 August near Alexandria, Campbell County (FR); 3 near Madisonville, Hopkins County on 27 August; one on 5 September in eastern Log (MB). Rose-breasted Grosbeak — One male on 2 September at Ten - may be the earliest fall record for Louisville (S); 30 on 28 August at BNP (JB, PB). Dickcissel — One to three birds from 1 to 6 August in Hart and 2 on 13 August in Metcalfe County (MS). Vesper Sparrow — 10 on 20 October at McE (JB, PB); one at McE on 22 October (MB); one on 22 October at Cha and one on 3 November at McE (DR). Savannah Sparrow — Numerous on 13 October at Slo and at McE (JB, PB); 6 on 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 11 13 October and 5 on 15 October at MCFH (FB); 200+ on 14 October and 150+ on 22 October at McE (DR); 20+ on 20 October at McE (MB). Grasshopper Sparrow — One on 12 October at Slo (MB); 2 on 13 October at Slo (JB, PB). LeConte’s Sparrow — One on 12 October at Slo (MB); one on 13 October at Slo (JB, PB). Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow — One on 12 October at Slo (MB); one on 13 October at Slo (JB, PB). Fox Sparrow — One on 30 October at Fre (MS); one 2 November at AJJ (FR); one on 25 and 26 at CKWA (GR). Swamp Sparrow — The first observation for the fall at MCFH was 6 birds on 19 October (FB); 3 at Mos on 26 October (MB). White-throated Sparrow — Eight on 3 October at Bel (FR); 20 in eastern Jefferson County on 12 October (DN); arrived at LPew on 1 1 October (JWH); first fall arrival at MCFH was on 19 October (FB); first fall observation on 20 October at Ten (S); 8 on 20 October at MCNP (JB, PB). White-crowned Sparrow — One on 20 October at Bow (JB, PB); 8 daily since 19 October in Hart (MS); one on 14 and 26 November at CKWA (GR). Dark-eyed Junco — A female at a feeder since 3 November in Ten (S). Rusty Blackbird — Large flock on 11 November at Spi (JW); 25+ on 28 November at Mos (MB). Purple Finch — One on 25 November at CKWA (GR). Evening Grosbeak — No reported observations. Contributors - Fred Busroe (FB), Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Mark Bennett (MB), Joe Caminiti (JC), Hap Chambers (Hap), Joe Tom Erwin (JTE), Danny Fraley (DF), James W. Hancock (JWH), Lewis Komman (LK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Mike Miller (MM), Carl Mowery (CM), Kathy Mowery (KM), Doxie Noonan (DN), Frank Renfrow (FR), Gary Ritchison (GR), David Roemer (DR), Anne Stamm (S), Sandra Sanders (SS), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Albert Surmont (AS), Bonnie West (BW), Jim Williams (JW). Observations currently under review by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee are: Red-breasted Nuthatch — from 1 June to 4 July (nesting record) - Wolfe County. Piper Plover — three records: Falls of Ohio, Jefferson County - 30 April; Chaney Lake, Warren County - 3 May; Kentucky Dam, Marshall County - 6 May. Purple Gallinule — Jackson, Breathitt County - 12 April to 9 May. Winter Wren — Big Black Mountain, Harlan County - 9 July. Tri-colored Heron — Jefferson County - 16 May to 18 May. — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351. 12 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 MID- WINTER BIRD COUNT 1996-1997 Reports on 25 counts were received from across the state. A total of 1 2 1 species was recorded on count days, 1 14 of which are represented on the table. Those species observed on count days that are not represented on the table include: White-winged Scoter and Lesser Black-backed Gull (1 each. Land Between the Lakes), Marsh Wren (1, Paradise), American Pipit (1, Danville), Orange -crowned Warbler, Vesper Sparrow and LeConte’s Sparrow ( 1 each. Paradise). No additional species were added by observations made dur¬ ing the count week. The same number of species were observed this year as last. Only seven species were observed on every count and thirteen species only on one count. The overall total number of individuals on the table includes those individuals not represented on the table. Eleven counts were conducted either on December 21 or December 28. The tem¬ perature range for the count period was from 13°F for a low on December 21 to 70°F for a high on December 28 and January 4. The temperatures were slightly below normal at the beginning of the count period, but very warm during the middle and latter portions. The number of waterfowl appeared to be good, but down slightly compared with the num¬ ber last year. This slight reduction might be an artifact of their dispersal into numerous small bodies of water formed as a result of abundant rainfall that remained open with warmer than normal temperatures. The number of Red-breasted Nuthatches was very low. The number of American Robins and Cedar Waxwings was lower than last year, perhaps due to the lack of cedar berries. Eastern Bluebird numbers have remained relatively con¬ stant for several years. Purple Finch numbers continued to remain very low. House Finch and House Sparrow numbers remained relatively constant. As always, definitive conclu¬ sions regarding short term population trends based on results of these counts are not pos¬ sible. Other observations of interest can be found in the comments accompanying the description for each count. 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. In order to be included in the count and considered for state record sta¬ tus, documentation needs to be considered by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee (KBRC) for unusual sightings. 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 res¬ idential, 35% open fields and pastures. Dec. 29; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 39° to 60°F; wind NE, 1-4 m.p.h. Eleven observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 40 (8.5 on foot, 31.5 by car). Total party miles 218 (8 on foot, 210 by car). Total species 76; total individuals 3,823. Observers: Hap Chambers (compiler), Joe Tom Erwin, Rick Hokans, Joyce Hyon, Ruth Jacquot, Sally Leedom, Mike Miller, Clell Peterson, Sandra Sanders, Shari Sherwood, and Tommy Sherwood. Land Between the Lakes (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Pisgah Bay picnic ground.) Habitat mostly wooded areas, some fields, a few small towns, Kentucky Lake and Barkley Lake. Dec. 21 : 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy, temp. 28° to 42°F; wind SW, 10-25 m.p.h. Twenty observers in 7-9 parties. Total party-hours 45.5 (23.5 on foot, 22 by car). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 Total party-miles 243.5 (22.5 on foot, 221 by car). Total species 79; total individuals 7,510. Observers: Stephanie Askew, Mark Bennett, Hap Chambers, James Compton, Melissa Easley, Willard Gray, Bob Head, Rick Hokans, Patrick Holcomb, Joyce Hyon, Ruth Jacquot, Bill McDaniel, William McDaniel, Carl Mowery (compiler), Kathy Mowery, Clell Peterson, Darrin Samborski, Shari Sherwood, Tommy Sherwood, and Henry Yacek. This is the lowest species count since 1982, and lowest number of individuals since 1987. An additional 13 gulls were observed but could not be identified. Sorgho (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 279-S and Audubon Parkway intersection.) Habitat river bottoms, farms, ponds, river, state and county parks. Jan. 1; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy, low overcast; temp. 40° to 46°F; wind 0-8 m.p.h. Misty to light rain at times. It seemed windier at times. Twelve observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 26 (6 on foot, 20 by car). Total party- miles 165 (9 on foot, 156 by car). Total species 50; total individuals 2,687. Observers: Pat Augenstein, Joan Boggess, Mike Brown, Brenda Eaden, Joe Ford, Ashley Hall, Gary Hall, Neal Hayden, Janet Howard (compiler), Joyce Porter, and Tommy Stevenson. Yelvington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center intersection of KY 405 and 662.) Habitat river bottoms, Yellow-Creek Park, Fish and Game Farm, road ditches, and Carpenter’s Lake. Dec. 28: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 68° to 65°F; wind 5 to 10 m.p.h. Ten observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 40 (8 on foot, 32 by car). Total party-miles 45 (8 on foot, 37 by car). Total species 71; total individuals 2,779. Observers: Marty Brown, Mike Brown, Neil Hayden, Jan Howard, Leona Kimmel, Joyce Porter, A.L. Powell (compiler), Millie Powell (feeder watchers), Marvin Ray, and Maudie Ray (feeder and pine woods at their home). A large flock of Wild Turkeys (25) was in the pine woods behind the Ray’s House. They came in to roost. Also four Wild Turkeys flew into the woods behind the Powell’s house. These birds were not found on the count day, but were found on days just prior to the count period. The sighting of the Sandhill Crane was of interest also. Some of our people had to leave at noon on the count day. Olmstead (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Junction of KY 1041 and KY 1 151, six miles southwest of Russellville, Kentucky) Habitat as described in 1993. Dec. 28; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (3:00 to 5:00 a.m. owling). Sky cloudy to partly sunny; temp. 57° to 70°F; wind S, 0-20 m.p.h. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (3 on foot, 7 by car). Total party-miles 98 (4 on foot, 94 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 5,475. Observer: Mark Bennett (compiler), David Roemer. Feeder watchers: Tommie Bail Bennett, Andrew Bennett, Becky Christmas, Kathy Dotson, Shirley Haines, Gene McDonald, Nell Ripley, Norma Taylor, and Francis Wheller. The addition of feeder watchers enhanced the count even though warm temperatures lowered the number of birds at feeders. Recent heavy rains increased water levels in Mosley’s Pond and caused many “potholes” to form. Very cold weather the week prior to the count froze bodies of water, thereby reducing the number of waterfowl. Extreme logging at Mosley’s Pond may eventually force most birding to occur by boat. Count highlights includ- 14 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 ed Snipe, Canvasback, Redhead and Homed Lark. The increase in the number of individuals was due mainly to Starlings. Paradise (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1993.) Habitat as described in 1993. Jan. 1; 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 44° to 51°F; wind W, 0- 8 m.p.h. All water open. Twelve observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 34 (13 on foot, 21 by car). Total party- miles 214.5 (4.5 on foot, 210 by car). Total species 88; total individuals 43,158. Observers; Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Mark Bennett, Michael Bierly, Doris Clay, Kathryn Clay, Mike Henshaw, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Don Parker, Danny Peake, Robert Rold, and Eric Williams. Highlights of the count were mostly lingering fall migrants. They included a Marsh Wren in the exact same location in Muhlenberg County where a bird was found on the 1994-1995 count (4th winter record for Kentucky); an Orange-crowned Warbler studied closely in a Virginia pine thicket in eastern Muhlenberg County (5th winter record for Kentucky); single Chipping and Vesper sparrows observed well near the Paradise Steam Plant; and a LeConte’s Sparrow flushed from thick, grassy cover on the Gibraltar mine, about 0.5 miles from where one was found on the 1993-1994 count. Water was completely open, and waterfowl were dispersed in most parts of the count circle; however 14 species were found, including an adult Tundra Swan on the Gibraltar mine in Muhlenbeig County. The Dreary, calm day was not conducive for observing raptors, and most species were found in abnormally low numbers. The Red-tailed Hawk total includes one individual of the Krider’s race. Not included in the total were tens of thousands of unidentified black¬ birds (likely mostly grackles and red-wings) that were observed flying over during the day. One Accipiter species was also observed. Bowling Green (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Three Springs, six miles south of Bowling Green.) Habitat deciduous forest 20%, fields and pastures 60%, and town and parks 20%. Dec. 22; 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky rain in morning, mostly cloudy p.m.; temp. 32° to 53°F; wind S, 10-15 m.p.h. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 27 (9 on foot, 18 by car). Total party- miles 174 (6 on foot, 168 by car). Total species 70; total individuals 1 1,774. Observers: Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Wayne Mason, Marvin Russell, David Roemer, and Herbert E. Shadowen. Mammoth Cave National Park (Center and habitat as described in 1980.) Dec. 23; 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 52° to 62°F; wind S, 15-20 m.p.h. Four observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 13 (4 on foot, 9 by car). Total party- miles 95 (9 on foot, 86 by car). Total species 45; total individuals 1,425. Observers: Clint Blankenship, Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Elizabeth Ferrell, and Wayne Mason. Glasgow (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1986.) Habitat as described in 1986. Dec. 29; 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy a.m., clear by afternoon; temp. 54° to 68°F; wind 0 m.p.h. Unusually warm for this count. Seven observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 25.75 (9.75 on foot, 16.00 by car). Total party-miles 55.5 (1 1 on foot, 44.5 by car). Total species 59; total individuals 3,359. Observers: Clint Blankenship, Lester Doyle, Marquita Gillenwater, Mae Dean Kinslow, Wayne M. 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This is the first count in recent memory where blackbirds and cowbirds are so sorely lacking. Falls of Rough (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Short Creek, Kentucky at the intersection of Highway 79 and Highway 54.) Habitat woodland, cultivated fields. Rough River Lake, Rough River State Park, river bottoms, watershed lakes, ponds, old fields, and yard feeders. Dec. 21; 6:30 a.m. to 4:47 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 20° to 38°F; wind 8-18 m.p.h. So windy that birds were hard to find except in protected pockets out of the wind. Five observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 15 (3 on foot, 12 by car). Total party- miles 128.5 (4.5 on foot, 124 by car). Total species 50; total individuals 1,301. Observers: Pat Augenstein, Kathryn Clay, Mary Harrel, Neal Hayden, and Joyce Porter (compiler). Caneyville Reservoir was completely devoid of birds, even along the shoreline and woods nearby, and it was frozen almost to the middle of the lake. The same was true for Pine Knob Lake due to the below freezing temperatures on days preceding the count with a low of 13°F on December 19 and 5°F on December 20. Two of the Yellow-rumped Warblers were the Audubon race. Hart County (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Craddock Lane and Geralds Lane.) Habitat rural, farms, woodlots. Green River, and Hundred Acre Pond. Jan. 3; 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky mostly sunny; temp. 60° to 68°F. Eight observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 10.5 (6 on foot, 4.5 by car). Total party-miles 85 (5 on foot, 80 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 7,699. Observers: Bruce Bardin, John Brittain, Lisa Brittain, Carol Friedman, Logan Kistler, Steve Kistler (compiler), Randy Sullivan, and Chuck Wuertzer. Green River Lake (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Green River Memorial Baptist Church, Taylor County, Kentucky.) Habitat as described in 1996. Jan. 5; 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 45° to 58°F; wind 5-25 m.p.h. Very windy all day. Four observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 19.5 (13.5 on foot, 6 by car). Total party-miles 106.5 (8.5 on foot, 98 by car). Total species 60; total individuals 3,337. Observers: Richard Cassell, Lloyd C. Curry (compiler), Richard Kessler, and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Windy conditions drove most water birds to protected areas against the shoreline; other birds moved to dense growth. The oddity of the day was almost stepping on a very active common water snake. A large owl was observed but could not be identified. Otter Creek Park (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 22%, woodlands 26%, farmlands 38%, ponds, creeks, lake, and river 14%. Dec. 21; 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Sky cloudy to clear; temp. 17° to 39°F; wind N, 10-15 m.p.h. Ponds were frozen; river and lake open. About one inch of snow was on the ground. Twelve observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 36 (14.25 on foot, 21.75 by car). Total party-miles 232 (17 on foot, 215 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 2,862. Observers: Mary B. Bauer, Frank H. Krull, John Krull, Celia Lawrence, Joyce Metzger, Diane Miller, Robert Miller, Doxie Noonan, Jim Pasikowski, Helga Schutte, 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Anne Stamm (compiler), and Edwin Toone. Fewer birds and species were tabulated on the count this year. Twelve participants counted 2,862 individual birds compared to 1 1,326 last year. Although Doe Valley Lake was open, the only water birds on it were Mallards and American Coots. Ducks were absent with the exception of Mallards. Falconiformes were fairly well represented. The two adult Bald Eagles were seen by the Jim Pasikowski party. Two flocks of Sandhill Cranes totaling 75 were seen flying rather low fairly close to the Ohio River by the Stamm party. An interesting find was the Palm Warbler by Frank and John Krull. In mild winters the species may overwinter. It was encouraging that the Dark-eyed Junco numbers were much above last year. The natural food supply was relatively low. Juniper trees were without berries. Agricultural fields were the only major source of food readily available. Some fields were not completely harvested and some of those harvested had an abundant supply of waste grain such as com, wheat, etc. Bemheim Forest (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1974.) Habitat as described in 1974. Dec. 28; 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy; temp. 52° to 65°F; wind SW, 5-15 m.p.h. All water open. Ten observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 35 (16 on foot, 19 by car). Total party- miles 243.5 (9.5 on foot, 234 by car). Total species 73; total individuals 5,230. Observers: Alan Barron, Mary Bill Bauer, Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Jerry Coomes, David Jennings, Tim Love, Mark Monroe, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), and Martha Pike. Weather for the count was fairly good, although a steady breeze may have kept land bird numbers down to some extent. The species total (73) represented a new count record, eclipsing the 72 species found in 1985-86. The day’s highlight was the flock of Red Crossbills, studied at leisure within the Forest’s arboretum area; this is the first report of the species in Kentucky in several years. Also present were at least two Golden Eagles, an adult and an immature. Waterfowl were scarce again this year, as were berry-eating species. Winter finches (other than the crossbills) were also low in numbers or absent. The Red-tailed Hawk total includes one dark morph Harlan’s Hawk, which was found in the same Nelson County location as the previous year and likely the same individual. 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. 22; 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 36° to 46°F; wind S, 18 m.p.h. Thirty three observers in 16 parties. Total party-hours 79.25 (33.75 on foot, 45.5 by car). Total party-miles 447.50 (32.75 on foot, 414.75 by car). Total species 82; total indi¬ viduals 28,368. Observers: Garrett Adams, Win Ahrens, Michael Auten, Mary Bill Bauer, Jane Bell and Pat Bell (compilers), Marie Blahnik, Roland Blahnik, Steve Figg, Chuck Hatten, Chris Hill, Bob Johnson, Cheryl Jones, Frank Krull, John Krull, Tim Love, Fred Mansmith, Nancy Martyunas, Diane Miller, Burt Monroe III, Mark Monroe, Bob Noonan, Doxie Noonan, Peggy Oats, Martha Pike, Clara Ann Pollares, David Pollares, Robert Quaife, Lene Rauth, George Rodgers, Helga Schutte, Rich Sodano, and Ann Stamm. Several factors contributed to a low number of species this year. Count day was windy and cloudy and most ponds and lakes were ice-covered. Winter resident numbers were low with only one Red-breasted Nuthatch being observed. Extensive development in eastern Jefferson County is also contributing to low numbers of individuals, especially Eastern Bluebirds. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 21 There was a large increase in the number of Mallards. Other interesting sightings include three Peregrine Falcons, an Eastern Phoebe, a Brown Thrasher, and a Gray Catbird. 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'- 1 190', farm¬ land, fallow land, suburban, wooded, and grassland. Dec. 29; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky partly sunny; temp. 55° to 62°F; wind SW, 10 m.p.h. Four observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 16(1 on foot, 15 by car). Total party- miles 185 (0.5 on foot, 184.5 by car). Total species 43; total individuals 1,456. Observers: Iris Brown, Joan Brown, Sean Brown, W.H. Brown (compiler), and Rich Eilers. Frankfort (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 21; 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 16° to 35°F; wind WSW, 0-5 m.p.h. Eleven observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 33.25 (1 1.25 on foot, 22 by car). Total party-miles 258.5 ( 12 on foot, 246.5 by car). One person 3.5 hours at a feeder. Total species 50; total individuals 2,919. Observers: James Derryberry, Margaret Derryberry, Jim Durell, Peggy Gould (Compiler), Ralph Gould, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Susan Laurenson, Robert Laurenson, Amy Williams, Fred Williams, and Tim Williams. Hackberry was abundant, along with bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and white ash. Kleber Wildlife Management Area (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1977.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 28; 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 51° to 66°F; wind SSW, 10-25 m.p.h. Unseasonably warm. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 18.5 (6.5 on foot, 12.0 by car). Total party-miles 1 15 (6 on foot, 109 by car). Total species 35; total individuals 1,143. Observers: Joe Burgess, Jim Durell, Peggy Gould (compiler), Ralph Gould, Pat Hankla, and Scott Hankla. Danville (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat as described before. Dec. 31; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 51° to 58°F; wind calm. Twenty seven observers in 9 parties. Total party-hours 54.50 (12.25 on foot, 42.25 by car). Total party-miles 485 (19.5 on foot, 465.5 by car). Total species 64; total indi¬ viduals 7,160. Observers: Ron Barbato, Joanne Bright, Bob Corcoran, Ginny Eklund, Neil Eklund (compiler), Martha Foster, Tobin Foster, Nancy Gentry, JoAnn Hamm, Michael Hamm, Dorothy Belle Hill, Tom Kearns, J.W. Kemper, Sara Lamb, F.W. Loetscher, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, Alex Nichols, John B. Nichols, Danice Nutter, Rob Pendygraft, Herb Pititjean, Jack Pogue, Louise Robinson, Lee Russell, Marvon Smith, and Betty Ullrich. Four Blue Geese were observed during the count day, but not included on the table. Lexington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center near East Hickman Church on Tates Creek Road.) Habitat mixed residential and farmland. Dec. 28; 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 56°C to 65°C; wind SW, 8 m.p.h. Thirty six observers in 13 parties. Total party-hours 70 (25 on foot, 45 by car). Total party-miles 688 (35 on foot, 653 by car). Total species 79; total individuals 12,278. 22 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Observers: Amy Allen, Earl Boggs, Earl E. Boggs, Gary Boggs, Mable Boggs, Michael Boggs, Stewart Butler, Julie Byron, Rose Canon, Jan Davis, Phyllis Deal, Linda Dryer, Doris Ferm, Fran Koontz, Terri Koontz, Kean Flynn, Mike Flynn, James Hodge, Allen Kingsland, James Knoblett, Jeff Knoblett, Betty Maxson, Mark Morgan, Robert L. Morris (compiler), Andrew Neilson, Matthew Nielson, Kim Olson, Art Ricketts, Tina Ricketts, Ed Seiler, Harry Smith, Charles Susie, Marie Sutton, Jim Williams, Bernice Wood, and Andy Uterhart. The food supply seemed very low this year. Burlington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center near Camp Michaels.) Habitat as described in 1992. Dec. 28; 6:15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky partly sunny to cloudy; temp. 57° to 65°F; wind SW, 8-21 m.p.h. All water open. Nineteen observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 42.5 (27.5 on foot, 15 by car). Total party-miles 190 (1 1 on foot, 179 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 3,033. Observers: Karl Anderson, Joe Caminiti, Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Sherry Carran, Elaine Carroll, Greg Cunningham, Melissa Desjardin, Kevin Flowers, Ed Groneman, Maria McLean, Lee McNeely (compiler), Gayle Pille, Karen Puckett, Carmen Schulte, Tommy Stephens, and Gene Wolfe. Feeder Watchers: Maijorie Hill and Lynda McNeely. Usually mild temperatures may have contributed to the lower-than normal number of species. The majority of the vultures were found at the East Bend Power Plant. Warsaw (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Gallatin County courthouse.) Habitat as described in 1992. Dec. 21; 7: 15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky overcast to partly sunny; temp. 13° to 24°F; wind S, 8-20 m.p.h. Most water frozen, Ohio River open. Seven observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 28 ( 1 5 on foot, 1 3 by car). Total party- miles 149 (7 on foot, 142 by car). Total species 61; total individuals 4,767. Observers: Joe Caminiti, Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Kevin Flowers, Frank Lrcwandowski, Lee McNeely (compiler), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr.. The majority of the waterfowl and the Short-eared Owl were present at the Ghent Power Plant. For the first time in seven years, no Black Vultures were found. An accipiter was observed but not identified. Richmond (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center three quarters of a mile north of intersection of Bobtown.) Habitat road and the Kingston-Berea Road, 40% fence rows and road sides, 20% woodland, 30% pastureland and open fields, and 10% lawns. Dec. 30; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy to cloudy; temp. 41°C to 59°C; wind SW, 0-5 m.p.h. Began raining at 5:00 p.m. Eleven observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 31 (13.5 on foot, 17.5 by car). Total party-miles 275.5 (14.5 on foot, 261 by car). Total species 65; total individuals 4,562. Observers: Geoff Carter, Jennifer Cofer, Seth Husted, Chris Kirk, Randy Mowrer, Thomas Oliver, Danny Peake, Brandon Ritchison, Gary Ritchison (compiler), Tammy Ritchison, and Eric Williams. Somerset (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at the junction of Bypass E. 80 and Highway 39, Crab Orchard Road.) Habitat water edge 23%, cultivated 5.25%, wooded and edge 25.75%, urban 7%, field/fence 37% and feeder 2%. Jan. 4; 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 57° to 70°F; wind SW, 5-25 m.p.h. Eleven observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 36.25 (16.25 on foot, 20 by car). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 23 Total party-miles 296.50 ( 10.75 on foot, 285.75 by car). Total species 65; total individu¬ als 16,038. Observers: Judy Brant, Jean Brickell, Lois Dale, Roseanna Denton (compiler), Steve Denton, Gay Hodges, Mary Kissel, Linda McClendon, Bob Murphy, Jim York, and Margaret York. Additional comments: Four feeder watchers, Jim Hodges, Gary McClendon, Mary Moss, and Betty Richards, helped Perry County (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Cypress Amax Wildlife Area.) Habitat reclaimed strip mine, pond, woodland, and edge. Dec. 18; 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 15° to 20°F; wind calm. Very cold day. Seventeen observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 4. Total species 20; total individu¬ als 71. Observers: Rhonda Anderson, Travis Baker, Jim Boggs, Bill Bush, Jeremy Cantrell, Karsten Colwell, Chris Combs, Jonathan Deaton, Jessie Hickman, Cynthia Jent, Jeremy Howard, John Minter, Brian Oliver, Don Spencer (compiler), Everett Spencer, Makisha Stamper, and Crissy Thornton. Count was short because the high school kids had to get back to school. The reclaimed strip mine area is still new and did not provide a habitat for some species. Woodland area was small and broken up by mining. Here in southeastern Kentucky, most species are doing well. The large areas of open grassland left behind by surface mining probably will change the populations of birds somewhat. Great Homed Owls are getting hard to find as is the Bam Owl. The latter probably because of the decrease in farming and agriculture in the area. 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 AVIFAUNA USE OF CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS IN THE CAVE RUN LAKE AREA April Haight and Brian C. Reeder Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Morehead State University INTRODUCTION Eighty percent of America’s breeding bird population, and more than 50% of the 800 species of protected migratory birds, rely on wetlands (Wharton et al. 1982). Wetlands are rare in the Daniel Boone National Forest; therefore, fifty wetlands covering an area of 24 ha have been constructed since 1989 to encourage the establishment of wetland flora and fauna. A primary goal of this wetland creation project is to establish waterfowl popula¬ tions in the Cave Run Lake area. Our goal was to determine if the constructed wetlands are indeed attracting wetland bird communities. We gauged their success by comparing bird communities dependent upon wetlands for part of their life cycle in the constructed wetlands with those found in a nearby natural wetland. We also examined physiognomic habitat differences in the wetlands, and differences in wetland size, to determine if those factors affected bird species diversity and richness. MATERIALS AND METHODS Site Description The constructed wetlands are located southwest of Cave Run Lake in the beaver Creek Wetland Complex of Daniel Doone National Forest, Morehead Ranger District, in Menifee County. The complex contains 37 wedands. The sites used for this study repre¬ sent a range of sizes, ages, and habitat characteristics (Table 1 ). The sites are all effected to some degree by water-level manipulation at Cave Run Lake and have been allowed to establish vegetation naturally (no planting was done). The wetlands are surrounded by steep wooded slopes on the upland side; Cave Run Lake lies to their downland side. In addition to woodland habitat, approximately 22 ha of com, wheat, grass, clover fields have been planted near the wetlands. Over 60 nesting platforms for Canada geese and over 180 Wood Duck nesting boxes were also placed near the wetlands. Water depth at the sites remained fairly constant, varying only by 10 cm. Two of the wetlands were drawn-down during the study period. The natural wetland (control site) is located near the Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery (120 ha), in Farmers, Kentucky and the Licking River. This 1.8 ha wetland is an oxbow of the Licking River completely surrounded by bottomland forest. Observations Avifauna were observed approximately every other week from April-December 1995. Each wetland was approached as quietly as possible. Upon reaching the wetland, birds were observed and counted. Observation dates were: April 4, 29; May 21; June 5, 1 8, 22, 23, 24; July 9, 10, 22; August 5, 19; September 2, 23; October 7, 8, 28; November 1 1, 25; and December 8, 9. Observations were usually made before 12:00 pm. Obligate bird species (birds dependent upon wetlands for part of their life cycle) were detemiined based upon general knowledge and published observation. These includ¬ ed: Great Blue Heron, Green-backed Heron, American Bittern, Great Egret, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, American Black Duck, Mallard, Blue-winged Teal, Redhead, Ring- 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 25 necked Duck, Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, Belted Kingfisher, Swamp Sparrow, and Red-winged Blackbird (Grover and Baldassare 1995). Habitat diversity or horizontal habitat was evaluated using Shannon’s index of habi¬ tat diversity (as described in Brower et al. 1 989). Habitat categories (emergent vegetation, open water, shrubs, and trees) were determined as percent cover. Open water included submergent vegetation. Small willow trees (< 1 .52 m) were included as shrubs. Shrubs were only included if they were standing in the water when the wetland was at full capac¬ ity. The percent cover was estimated based on field observation and wetland morphology maps. Bird species diversity was calculated by using Shannon’s index. Statistical analysis utilized the software Statview 4.0 for PowerMacintosh. A significance level of 0.10 was chosen for all analyses. TABLE 1. Characteristics of wetland study sites near Cave Run Lake. Wetland Size (ha) Wood Duck Boxes Goose Platforms Drawn- Down Habitat Diversity 1 1.9 2 0 yes 0.440 13 1.2 0 1 no 0.150 18 1.3 2 1 no 0.589 21 0.8 0 2 no 0.342 29 0.4 0 0 yes 0.476 control 1.8 0 0 — 0.440 TABLE 2. Avifauna diversity and richness of six wetlands in the Cave Run Lake watershed. Wetland Species Richness Obligate Richness Species Abundance Obligate Species Diversity 1 18 12 220 37% 1.227 13 6 4 57 75% 0.842 18 25 11 153 78% 1.091 21 23 10 148 58% 1.176 29 18 6 87 41% 1.173 control 15 11 118 85% 1.118 RESULTS Avifauna Observations Over the course of the study 783 birds, consisting of 48 species, were counted. Of the 783 individuals, 59% of the avifauna were obligate species. Canada Geese were found in the greatest numbers (107). Mallards were the second most observed bird species (75 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 individuals), followed by Red-winged Black Birds (59 individuals). Wild Turkeys were observed more than any other non-wetland species (55 individuals) — of which 48 were observed at one time. The control site had the highest percentage of obligate species (85%) and wetland 1 had the lowest (37%). Wetlands 13 and 29 had few obligate species. Wetland 13 had the fewest total species, but 4 out of 6 were obligates; wetland 29 had a variety of upland bird species utilizing the nearby shrubs and sycamores; however, only six species observed there relied on wetland habitats. The constructed wetlands with the greatest richness, 18 and 21, attracted and supported many of the obligate species found in the control site, in addition to many upland species. The other three wetlands did not attract all the obligate species found in the control site. Wetland size did not significantly correlate with species abundance (r = 0.5 10), rich¬ ness (r = -.152) or diversity (r = 0.026). Habitat diversity was significantly correlated to avifauna species richness (r = 0.792; p = 0.06), but not diversity (r = 0.068), or abundance (r = 0.517). Wetlands with more open water had significantly lower habitat diversity (r = -0.752; p = 0.09); however, this was not a definitive factor in determining abundance (r = -0.333), diversity (r = -0.397), richness (r = -0.484), or percentage of obligate species (r = -0.449). Breeding evidence at the wetlands as observed on May 2, June 5 and 22. A female Hooded Merganser was spotted, on May 2, at wetland 21 with five ducklings. Previous to this sighting, breeding Hooded Meigansers had not been found east of Louisville (Fed Busroe, personal communication). At wetland 18, nine of the thirteen Canada Geese observed were goslings. On the June 22 visit, an unhatched goose egg was found at wet¬ land 1 8 in the goose platform. Three young Wood Ducks were seen in boxes at wetland 1 on June 5. DISCUSSION We assumed there would be a correlation between habitat richness and species rich¬ ness — which we found. This suggests that if more niches are available; more species will be found. However, our expectation was that these species would be observed in similar abundances to natural wetlands — which our data shows they were not. Although the number of species observed increased as habitat diversity increased, habitat diversity did not correlate with avian abundance, or diversity. Wetlands 13 and 29 appear to be the least successful, because they are not attracting either the number or diversity of obligate birds the other wetlands are producing. Wetland 29 is, from the standpoint of bird species, practically an upland habitat. This observation suggests that these two wetlands are not providing the same ecosystem functions as a nat¬ ural wetland. The other three constructed wetlands more closely resemble the control community, but they are attracting greater numbers of birds and species. This could be because they are in a transition stage, or they may be attracting unsustainable bird num¬ bers and diversity. Farmes (1995) suggests a 50:50 ratio of open water to emergent vegetation is opti¬ mal for duck populations. Ponds for diving ducks tend to be deeper and have less emer¬ gent vegetation (Lokemoen and Woodward 1992). We found the three wetlands with the highest species diversity (1, 21, 29) had 65% to 77% open water; however, neither the diversity of surrounding habitat nor the diversity of wetland vegetation and open water increased avain species richness. In fact, we found a negative relationship between open water habitat and the percentage of obligate bird species. Open water, therefore, is not as 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 important to establishment of wetland avifauna as the presence of a variety of wetland habitats — such as emergent vegetation. Island biogeographic theory would predict that the larger wetlands would have a greater species diversity and richness. Craig and Beal (1992) found that diversity increased with marsh size in a study of over 90 Wyoming wetlands. However, recent stud¬ ies of beaver ponds did not find any correlation (Grover and Baldassre, 1995). Similarly, we found no correlation between wetland size and species richness or diversity. It is prob¬ able that “island biogeographic-like” increases in diversity are not common in either nat¬ ural or constructed wetlands. A variety of available wetland depths and habitats is proba¬ bly more important at increasing richness, rather than size alone. Because there are abundant avifauna using the constructed wetlands, we can con¬ clude that they are successful in their goal of increasing use by species dependent upon wetland for part or all of their life cycle. Breeding activity is strong evidence that some of these systems have ecosystem structures and functions similar to natural wetlands. However, none of the wetlands were able to attract obligate species in the same relative abundances as the natural wetland. Two sites were unable to attract as many obligate species as the control — despite enhancements that should make them attractive (such as grain fields, boxes, and nesting platforms). Therefore, we would suggest that constructed wetlands, even if given many years to establish, cannot replace all the functional attribut¬ es of natural wetlands. LITERATURE CITED Brower, J.E., J.H. Zar, and C.N. von Ende. 1989. Field and Laboratory Methods for General Ecology. 3rd ed. Wm. C. Brown Publishers. Craig, R.J. and K.G. Beal. 1992. The Influence of habitat variables on marsh bird com¬ munities of the Connecticut River estuary. Wilson Bulletin. 104:295-31 1. Farmes, R.E. 1985. So you want to build a water impoundment, pp 130-143. Water impoundments for wildlife: a habitat management workshop. U.S.F.S. Gen, Tech. Rep. NC-100. Grover, A.M. and G.A. Baldassare. 1995. Bird Species richness within Beaver Ponds in the South-Central New York. Wetlands. 15(2): 108-118. Lokemoen, J. T. and R. O. Woodward. 1992. Nesting waterfowl and waterbirds on natur¬ al islands in the Dakotas and Montana. Wildlife Society Bulletin. 20: 163-171. Wharton, C.H., W.H. Kitchens, E.C. Pendleton, and T.W. Sipe. 1982. The Ecology of Bottomland Hardwood Swamps of the Southeast: a community profile. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Biological Services Program. FWS/OBS-81/37. 133pp. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Financial support for this project was provided by the Morehead State University Research and Creative Productions Committee and the U.S. Forest Service Morehead Ranger District. F.M. Busroe and T. Biebighouser provided excellent advice and com¬ ments. 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 FIFTH REPORT OF THE KENTUCKY BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE Lee K. McNeely, Secretary This report is the fifth from the Kentucky Bird Records Committee (hereafter KBRC), and covers actions completed during the calendar year 1996. Members serving on the committee during this period were Blaine Ferrell, Wayne Mason, Lee McNeely, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., and Anne Stamm. The stated purpose of the KBRC is to deter¬ mine the validity of records of rare birds within Kentucky, maintain the documentation for these records, and to publish a summary of the committee’s deliberations. In 1996 there were three rounds of circulation through the KBRC consisting of 16 individual records. All cases were finalized from these two rounds. Accepted records: Podiceps grisegena. RED-NECKED GREBE. [#95-16] December 16, 1995, mouth of Craig’s Creek, on the Ohio River, Gallatin County (LM, FL, KF, TS). Anhinga anhinga. ANHINGA. [95-9] September 1-23, 1995, near Cloverport, Breckinridge County (EB, AB). [First documented Kentucky record since 1964], Egretta tricolor. TRICOLORED HERON. [95-15] June 17, 1995, Chaney Lake Warren County (MB, GF). Cygnus columbianus. TUNDRA SWAN. [#96- 1 ] January 16, 1996, Minor E. Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County (LK, FB, WM). Chen rossil ROSS GOOSE. [#96-5] March 10, 1996, German’s Front Pond, Mercer County (VE, NE, JK) [photographed]. Anas cyanoptera. CINNAMON TEAL. [#95-8] March 30-31, 1995, Westvaco Wildlife Management Area, Carlisle County (MT) [photographed]. Charadrius melodus. PIPING PLOVER. [#96-7] Three separate records: April 30, 1995, two birds at the Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County (BPB), May 3, 1996, Chaney Lake, Warren County (BPB), [photographed], and May 6, 1996, Kentucky Dam, Marshall County (BPB, MM, DP, RH). Calidris ferruginea. CURLEW SANDPIPER. [#96-2] September 20, 1995, Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County (MM, BPB) [photographed, second Kentucky record]. Larus ridibundus. BLACK-HEADED GULL. [#96-3] November 15-23, 1995, Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County (BPB, many other observers) [photographed, first Kentucky record]. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 29 Lams thayeri. THAYER’S GULL. [#95-18] December 16, 1995, Markland Dam, Gallatin County (BPB, several other observers) [photographed], Rissa tridactyla. BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE. [#95-17] December 16, 1995, Markland Dam, Gallatin County (BPB, several other observers). Aegolius acadius. NORTHERN SAW- WHET OWL. [#95-14] October 23, 1995, Hart County (SK). Sitta canadensis. RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH [#96-6] June 1-July 4, 1996, Swift’s Creek Trail, Wolfe County (FR) [photographed, first documented breeding record for Kentucky]. Seiums aurocapillus. OVENBIRD. [#96-4] Mid-November, 1995-February 23, 1996, Covington, Kenton County (SC, BC) [photographed]. Observers: Michael Bierly (MB), Ann Bowne (AB), Edward Bowne (EB), Fred Busroe (FB), Bob Carran (BC), Sherry Carran (SC), Neil Eklund (NE), Virginia Eklund (VE), Kevin Flowers (KF), Gilbert Foster (GF), Richard Healy (RH), J.W. Kemper (JK), Steve Kistler (SK), Lewis Komman (LK), Frank Lewandowski (FL), Wes Mattox (WM), Lee McNeely (LM), Mark Monroe (MM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Donald Parker (DP), Frank Renfrow (FR), Tommy Stephens (TS), and Maurica Toon (MT). The current official Kentucky list stands at 351 species (13 of which are by sight only), with the Band-headed Gull added since the last report. All records of birds on the mandatory review fist should be sent to the Secretary of the KBRC, Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005. FIELD NOTES A Great Blue Heron Rookery in Whitley County On May 17, 1996, while birding Laurel Lake, I discovered a Great Blue Heron ( Ardea herodias ) rookery on a ridge top in Whitley County. I recorded the location but did not visit the site for fear of disturbing the birds. When I returned on November 25, 1996, I found nine nests; three in one tree, two in another, and four singles. The nests are sim¬ ple stick structures, somewhat awkwardly constructed in the tallest pines (Pinus spp.) available. The adjacent hardwoods are not occupied. There is little ground litter or tree whitewash, which leads me to believe the rookery was initially established during the 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Spring of 1996. Until recently the Great Blue Heron was unknown as a breeder in eastern Kentucky (Lynn 1993, Ky Afield 49.2: 18-19; Monroe 1994, The Birds of Kentucky) That status changed in 1992 when a rookery was discovered on Lake Cumberland in Pulaski County (Hodges 1992, Ky. Warbler 68:5 1). Two more rookeries were established on Laurel Lake, in Laurel County, at about the same time. (P. Martin, pers. comm.), but none have been reported from Whitley County prior to this discovery (KDFWR pers. comm.). The origin of these new colonies is unknown, but they may represent a northern expansion of Tennessee breeding populations. Great Blues nest along the Cumberland River and near Dale Hollow Lake in Tennessee (B. Anderson, pers. comm.), less than 100 miles to the southwest. The Kentucky rookeries are within the Cumberland River watershed and it is possible that the birds followed the riverine corridor north into the state. The impoundments of eastern Kentucky provide suitable habitat for, and few com¬ petitors to. Great Blues. The birds appear to be exploiting the situation on Laurel Lake, having established three colonies there during the last five years. The Cumberland River, its tributaries, and the Kentucky portion of Dale Hollow Lake in particular, should be sur¬ veyed for additional nesting locations. If the present trend continues, the documented breeding range of the species might soon extend across the entire Commonwealth. -CLAY BLACK, 7377 Tarrytown Drive, Springhill, FL 34606. Purple Martin Migration I was in Owensboro on August 20 to attend a viewing at the Glenn Funeral Home, 900 Old Hartford Road. At approximately 6:00 p.m. I went outside to get some fresh air. I was amazed that the sky was filled with thousands of birds, many of which were flying directly overhead. I went to my car for my binoculars and scope and scanned the nearby trees. I was stunned, almost every bird I saw was a Purple Martin. The martins were perched in many trees and thousands more were still flying in. I noticed that other birds included in the flying flock were nighthawks, tree swallows, and miscellaneous other birds. However, 95% of the flock was Purple Martin. I conservatively estimate the num¬ ber of Purple Martins at 25,000. I would not be surprised if the true number approached 50,000 birds. It was truly an impressive sight to have the skies darkened with thousands of Purple Martins. I watched the birds for approximately 20 minutes before going inside. At approximately 7:30 p.m. I went outside and noticed that all the birds had disappeared. They were no longer in the trees where they were an hour earlier. -DON GORNEY, 631 Fox Orchard Run, Fort Wayne, IN, 46825. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 31 Great Egrets in Madison County On four occasions (12 July, 19 July, 2 August, and 13 August 1996), we observed Great Egrets (Casmerodius albus) while conducting wildlife investigations southeast of Richmond, Madison County, Kentucky. Three egrets were first seen (12 July) along a causeway which crosses Lake Vega, an impoundment located on the Blue Grass Army Depot, at a distance of about 30 m. Our presence caused them to fly to a shallow portion of the impoundment located about 200 m to the west. Adjusting our location, we were able to observe the birds and confirm their identity using aTasco 18-36x50mm spotting scope. Three egrets, presumably the same individuals, were observed ( 19 July) near the same location at the west end of Lake Vega. This observation was from approximately 150 m using a Bausch and Lomb 1 5-60x60 mm spotting scope. Christopher Kirk (2 August) was able to view five individuals along the west side of the pier on Lake Reba, a small public access lake, located southeast of Richmond, Madison County, Kentucky. At one point, one of the egrets was no more than 10 m from his location. Two individuals were observed along the west edge of Lake Vega (13 August). The egrets were observed for about 30 min with a Bausch and Lomb 15-60x60 mm spotting scope. During this time they were primarily hunting and preening. One of the birds appeared as though it could not straighten its neck fully. However, this did not seem to impede its ability to hunt or swallow its prey. The Great Egret is considered endangered in Kentucky (Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission 1992). Monroe et al. (1988, Annotated Checklist of the birds of Kentucky) considered the Great Egret an uncommon transient, non-breeding summer vis¬ itant, and extremely rare summer resident. Great Egrets are most often associated with the large river flood plains of the western portion of Kentucky (Palmer-Ball 1996, The Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas). In Kentucky, young have been observed in nests from mid- May to mid-August (Palmer-Ball 1996, The Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas). However, we found no evidence of breeding on the depot grounds. -THOMAS E. OLIVER AND CHRISTOPHER T. KIRK, Biology Department, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475. 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 NEWS AND VIEWS Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at (502) 894-9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S. Avian Research Grant Fund The Kentucky Ornithological Society has initiated an Avian Research Grant Fund. Persons that need money ( i.e ., up to $500.00) to assist them in conducting research on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 for a set of guidelines and an application form. Kentucky Bird Records Committee Rare bird sightings should be well documented and the documentation should be sent to Lee McNeely, Secretary of the KBRC, for consideration by the committee. (Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005). Spring K.O.S. Meeting The spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will meet April 25, 26 and 27 at Barren River State Resort Park. Please make plans to attend and make your reservations early. We will have a picnic at Brigadoon on Saturday following field trips, weather permitting. If you plan on presenting information at the Friday evening meeting, please contact Wendell Kingsolver, Shepherd Hill, Carlisle, KY. New K.O.S. Life Members Dr. Wayne H. Davis, Lexington; Mrs. and Mrs. Robert W. Head, Murray; Wesley Kemper, Cadiz; and Richard K. Kessler, Bardstown are new life members of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 73 MAY, 1997 NO. 2 IN THIS ISSUE THE WINTER SEASON, 1996-1997, Fred M. Busroe . 35 THE EFFECTS OF TRANSMITTER WEIGHT ON THE BEHAVIOR AND MOVEMENTS OF DOWNY WOODPECKERS, Gary Ritchinson ... 40 THE K.O.S. SPRING MEETING, April 25-27, Neil Eklund . 45 TREASURER’S REPORT, Lee McNeely . 47 NEWS AND VIEWS . 48 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corr. Secretary . Treasurer . Recording Secretary . Councillors: Mark Bennett, Russellville Steve Kistler, Munfordville Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough Retiring President . Staff Artist . . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . . Neil Eklund, Danville . 1996-1998 . 1996-1998 . 1997-1999 . 1997-1999 Herbert Clay, Jr., Falls of Rough . 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, $8.00; Contributing, $15.00; Student, $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communications should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W.) Stamm Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER We thank Philippe Roca for this excellent photograph of a juvenile Eastern Blue¬ bird, Sialia sialis. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 THE WINTER SEASON, 1996 - 1997 Fred M. Busroe The weather during the winter period was unusually mild. There was nearly no snow, but rainfall was above normal. The coldest days were only near 0°F, while there were several days in February of near record highs. The absence of a “real” winter has resulted in near absence of north¬ ern species. On the other hand, this season was enhanced by the sightings of Ross’ Geese, Greater White-fronted Geese, Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Iceland Gulls, Thayer’s Gulls, Glaucous Gulls and Lapland Longspurs. The transient lakes, McElroy and Chaney Lakes, remained high during the season, and as a result, larger than normal numbers and species of waterfowl were present, with the numbers reaching nearly 2000 individuals representing 15 species in January. Abbreviations - Aug = Augusta, Bracken County; LBar = Lake Barkley, Marshall County; Bel = Bellevue, Campbell County; Ber = Bemheim Forest, Nelson County; BAD = Bluegrass Army Depot, Madison County; CCSP = Carter Caves State Park, Carter County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Rowan County; CHL = Chaney Lake, Warren County; CL#1 = City Lake #1 and CL#4 = City Lake #4, Hopkins County; Cur = Camp Curry, Marshall County; CKWA = Central Kentucky Wddlife Management Area, Madison County; DC = Drake's Creek, Warren County; Fulk = Fulkerson Road, Ohio County; GLSP = Grayson Lake State Park, Carter County; GSP = Greenbo State Park, Greenup County; Har = Harlan County; Hart = Hart County; Hie = Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County; HWMA = Homestead Wildlife Management Area, Ohio County; Jon = Jonathan Creek, Marshall County; KYL = Kentucky Lake, Marshall County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; L#9 = Lake #9, Fulton County; Lex = Lexington, Fayette County; LWC - Louisville Water Company, Jefferson County; MCo = Madison County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park, Edmonson County; McEL = McElroy Lake, Warren County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; New = Newport, Campbell County; OCP = Otter Creek Park, Meade County; OFL = Owlsey Fork Lake, Madison County; Res#2 = Reservoir #2, Lexington, Fayette County; Saw = Tom Sawyer State Park, Jefferson County; Sen = Seneca Park, Louisville, Jefferson County; Sha = Shanty Hollow, Warren County; Sil = Silver Grove, Campbell County; Ten = Ten Broeck Subdivision, Louisville, Jefferson County; Tow = Towhead Island, Jefferson County; Wil = Wilder, Campbell County; RNWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; Ut = Utica, Ohio County. Red-Throated Loon — One observed on 2 to 4 December (JW) and on 5 December at Res#2 (MF). Common Loon — Two on 12 December at CRL (FB). Pied-billed Grebe — Four on 23 December at LPew ( J WH); 3 on 19 January at KYL (Hap, CP); one on 5 February at Hie (CP); 2 at Fulk and 2 at HWMA on 9 February (BE, TE). Horned Grebe — Eight on 12 December at CRL (FB). American White Pelican - 35 on 28 Febraary at LBar (DR). Double-crested Cormorant — Two on 9 February at Fulk (BE, TE); six on 23 February at Jon (Hap, CP). Great Blue Heron — Numbers lower than normal in LBL area (CP); one on 14 December at LWC (JB, PB); one on 17 December at Wil (FR); one on 23 December at LPew (JWH); one on 10 January and one on 21 January in Hart (MS); 6 on 17 February at Aug and one on 19 January at CCSP (FR). Tundra Swan — One immature at OFL on 29 December (AR, TR). Information has been forwarded to the Kentucky Bird Records Committee. Greater White-Fronted Goose — Five from 2 to 5 January and one on 7 February at 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 McEL (DR); one on 9 February at McEL (JB, PB). Snow Goose — Three on 3 January and 8 on 2 February at McEL (JB, PB); 15 (10 white + 5 blue phase) on 9 February at HWMA (BE, TE); 1 1 on 9 February at McEl (JB, PB); 1200 (800 white + 400 blue phase) on 18 February at Hie (CP). Ross’ Goose — Four from 7 to 19 February at McEL (DR); 4 on 9 February at McEL (JB, PB). Canada Goose — 14 on 23 December and 21 on 3 January at LPew (JWH); 8 on 3 February at Ten (AS). Green-winged Teal — One on 1 2 January at Mel (FR); 4 on 9 February at McEL (JB, PB); one on 28 February near Bondurant, Fulton County (CP). American Black Duck — Two were consistent during the time at New (FR); two on 19 January at Cur (Hap, CP); 8 on 9 February at McEL (JB, PB). Mallard — 30 to 40 were present during the period at Wil (FR); 24 to 70 during the peri¬ od at LPew (JWH); 50 on 3 January at McEL (JB, PB); 20 on 19 January at GLSP (FR); 8 arrived on 2 February at Ten (AS); 3000 on 5 February, 1 500 on 1 8 February and 600 on 28 February at Hie (CL). Northern Pintail — 9 on 2 February at McEL (JB, PB); 40 on 5 February and 150 on 18 February at Hie (CP). Blue-winged Teal — 50 on 28 February at Hie (CP). Northern Shoveler — One in Lex on 2 January (AR, TR); 8 on 18 February and 28 on 28 February at Hie (CP); 4 on 2 February at McEL (JB, PB). Gadwall — 8 on 18 February and 18 on 28 February at Hie (CP). American Wigeon — One male on 21 January at New (FR); 7 on 18 February and 25 on 28 February at Hie (CP). Redhead — Three at CL#4 on 18 February, Mad (JWH); one on 23 February in MCo (AR, TR). Canvasback — 20 on 17 and 23 February at Mel (FR); 4 on 23 February at Jon (Hap, CP). Ring-necked Duck — 7 on 21 January at CL#1 (JWH); 3 at Fulk and one a FTWMA on 9 February (BE, TE); 9 on 23 February at LBL (Hap, CP). Lesser Scaup — 7 on 22 February at Tow (JB, PB). Oldsquaw — One on 1 February at Bar (DR). White-Winged Scoter — Two immatures on 17 and 23 February at Mel (FR). Common Goldeneye — 20 on 19 January at Cur (CP); 2 on 2 February at CRL (FB); 8 on 17 February at Mel (FR). Bufflehead — One on 9 February at McEL (JB, PB); 2 on 28 February at Hie (CP); 35 to 60 at MCFH during the season (FB). Hooded Merganser — 16 on 14 December at LWC (JB, PB); two males on 1 December at New (FR); two on 2 February at McEL (JB, PB); 8 on 28 February at Hie (CP). Common Merganser — 4 at Mel and 16 at Aug on 17 February, with 2 at Mel on 23 February (FR); one at Lex Reservoir on 23 February (AR, TR). Ruddy Duck — 200 from 19 to 23 December at Jon (CP); 28 on 23 December at LPew and 63 on 3 January at CL#1 (JWH); one on 23 February at Lex Reservoir (AR, TR). Black Vulture — Two on 8 December at 1-64, Shelby County and 2 on 2 1 February at Sen (JB, PB); one on 19 February in MCo (AR. TR). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 37 Turkey Vulture — One on 3 January at Elizabethtown, Hardin County and one at LWC on 3 January (JB, PB); one on 23 January in Whitley County (AR, TR). Bald Eagle — One immature on 6 January, 3 immature + 1 adult on 12 January, one imma¬ ture on 30 January, 2 immature on 10 February, 2 immature + 1 adult on 1 1 February and 3 imma¬ ture on 16 February at MCFH (FB, LK); 2 immature on 18 February at Hie, 2 immature on 23 February at Jon, 3 adults and 1 immature on 23 February in nest region, levee area of L#9 (CP). Northern Harrier — 3 on 5 February at Hie (CP). Sharp-shinned Hawk — One in Hart on 3 and 9 February (MS); one on 9 February at Sen (JB, PB). Cooper’s FLawk — One on 15 December at Saw and one on 21 February at Sen (JB, PB); one on 15 December at Bel feeder (FR); one on 21 December at Mad (JWH); one was observed feeding on a female Northern Cardinal on 19 January at Ten (AS); one on 17 February in MCo (AR, TR). Red-shouldered Hawk — One on 25 December in the median of 1-64, Jefferson County and one at Ber (JB, PB). Red-tailed Hawk — One (Harlan’s morph) present in Warren County from 2 to 27 December (DR); one on 14 December at LWC and one on 26 January at McEL (JB, PB); one at CCSP and 4 at GLSP on 19 January (FR). Golden Eagle — One on 26 January at Ber (JB, PB). American Kestrel — One on 19 January at CCSP (FR); 9 on 28 February in Fulton County - average daily count (CP); several single sightings in Campbell County during the peri¬ od (FR); one almost daily during the period at MCFH (FB). Wild Turkey — Ten on 19 January at CCSP (FR); 6 on 9 February in Ohio County (BE, TE). American Coot — 64 on 23 December at LPew (JWH); 100 on 28 February in Fulton County (CP). Sandhill Crane — At McEL sightings were: 24 on 24 December, 2 on 30 December, 7 on 3 January and 40 on 14 February; 3 on 2 December in Todd County (BS); a total of 75 in two flocks on 2 1 December at OCP (RM, HS); 7 on 7 January at BAD (JS); 1 1 on 6 January, 1 85 on 18 February, 45 on 24 February in Hart with 19 on 22 February in Barren County (MS). Killdeer — Numbers were lower in western Kentucky during the rainy weather of January (CP); 8 at McEL and 31 at CHLon 3 January (JB, PB); 15 on 10 January in Barren County (MS). Dowitcher, sp. — 2 on 28 February at Long Point, RNWR (CP). Common Snipe — One on 2 December in Edmonson County (MS); one on 1 January in MCo (AR, TR). American Woodcock — One on 17, 18, 27, and 28 February in Hart County (MS); one in courtship flight on 20 February at Sil (FR); one in MCo on 27 February ( AR, TR). Gulls — Large number (50,000+) of gulls in the tail waters of Kentucky and Barkley Dams, the majority of which were Ring-billed Gulls (CP); gulls were not as numerous along the Ohio River in northern Kentucky as the 1995-1996 winter (FR). Bonaparte’s Gull — One on 14 December at MCFH (FB); one on 1 1 January and 3 on 12 January at Mel (FR); 2 to 3 were at MCFH from 4 to 8 February (FB). Ring-billed Gull — Numbers of no more than 1 50 in the New area and about equal in the Mel area (FR); 45 to 250 were at MCFH and CRL during the season (FB). Herring Gull — One on 14 and 16 December at MCFH (FB); one on 1 January and 2 on 38 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 16 and 24 January, with 4 on 29 January in the New area (FR). Thayer’s Gull — A first year bird was first observed on 29 January at Kentucky Dam fol¬ lowed by an adult being seen on 1 and 5 January at Barkley Dam. Two first year and one second year gulls were observed at Kentucky and Barkley Dams on 9 February (DR). Iceland Gull — An adult bird was seen at Barkley Dam on 1 and 5 February (DR); a first year gull was seen at Kentucky Dam 5 and 9 February (DR). Glaucous Gull — A first year gull and an adult were seen on 1 and 5 February with a first year bird observed at Kentucky Dam on 5 February (DR). Lesser Black-backed Gull — One on 19 January in the tail waters of Bar (CP). Eastern Screech-Owl — One in Hart on 7 January (MS); one calling in Har on 1 1 January (FB); one on 26 January at Ber (JB, PB). Great Horned Owl — One on 10 December in Louisville, Jefferson County (JB, PB); one was seen on several occasions during January in an Osprey nest near Honker Lake, LBL, (Hap, CP); 2 calling on 6 February in Bel (FR); two on 7 January at BAD (JS); 2 on 19 January, 3 on 2 February and 2 from 24 to 26 February in Hart (MS); one from 1 to 28 February near Ut (BE, TE). Barred Owl — One on 29 December in Sil (FR). Long-eared Owl — One on 27 January and two on 25 February in Muhlenberg County (DR). Belted Kingfisher — One on 14 December at LWC (JB, PB); one at CCSP on 19 January (FR); on 3 January at MCNP (JB, PB); one on 9 February at HWMA (BE, TE). Red-headed Woodpecker — Three on 20 January at CCSP (FR). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker — One on 2 January in Louisville (JB, PB); 1 on 1 1 and 28 January at Sil (FR). Downy Woodpecker — Four at a Bel feeder on 7 and 1 1 January (FR). Hairy Woodpecker — One on 1 1 January at Bel (FR); one on 3 February at CKWA (GR); one on 1 1 January in MCo (AR, TR). Pileated Woodpecker — One on 1 January in MCo (AR, TR); two on 19 January at CCSP (FR). Horned Lark — 50 on 3 January and 35 on 2 February at McEL (JB, PB); a large flock was observed on 15 December in the fields near McEL (DR); one in MCo on 23 February (AR, TR). Eastern Phoebe — Two were present all season at Sha (DR). White-breasted Nuthatch — One in MCo on 1 January (AR, TR); three on 19 January and four on 20 January at CCSP (FR). Brown Creeper — One on 15 December at Saw and 4 at BNP on 29 December (JB, PB); one in MCo on 28 December (AR, TR); one at CCSP on 20 January (FR). Carolina Wren — 20 were seen on 29 December in the Sil area (FR). Winter Wren — One on 15 December at Saw and one on 3 January at MCNP (JB, PB). Golden-crowned Kinglet — One on 1 January in MCo (AR, TR); 9 on 3 January at MCNP (JB, PB); one on 20 January at CCSP (FR); 2 to 4 were seen in Campbell County during the season (FR). Eastern Bluebird — Normal numbers were reported across the state during the season. Hermit Thrush — One on 3 January at MCNP (JB, PB). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 American Robin — 50+ arrived on 22 January and fed on winter fruit for several days in Ten (AS). Brown Thrasher — One on 6 January at CHA (FR); one in MCo on 1 1 January (AR, TR); one on 21 and 31 January and one at a feeder on 6 February in Mad (JWH). American Pipit — Two on 2 February at McEL (JB, PB); several were observed in the area of McEL and CHA during the period with the greatest number present during the third week of February (DR). Loggerhead Shrike — Two on 4 January at BAD (JS); one on 24 January in Barren County (MS); two on 18 February in Fulton County (CL). Yellow-rumped Warbler — 9 were in the Sil area on 29 December (FR); 6 on 3 January at MCNP (JB, PB); 6 near Kentucky Dam on 19 January (Hap, CP). Palm Warbler — A single bird was seen on 12 December at DC (DR). Eastern Towhee — Three on 15 December at Saw (JB, PB); one on 1 January in MCo (AR, TR); only an occasional observation of a single male was seen during January at Ten (AS). American Tree Sparrow — 2 on 3 February at Wil and 10 on 17 February at Mel (FR). Chipping Sparrow — 15 to 21 were observed during January and February near DC (DR). Savannah Sparrow — 12 on 1 1 January in Warren County (DR). Lark Sparrow — 12 on 19 January were seen in a grassy area, west shore below Kentucky Dam (Hap, CP). Fox Sparrow — One on 28 December in MCo (AR, TR); one on 16, 17, and 28 January with two on 26 January in a yard at Mad (DH, JWH). Lincoln’s Sparrow — One on 31 December at Barren Lake (DR). Swamp Sparrow — One on 29 December at Sil (FR); one on 1 January in MCo (AR, TR); 10 on 19 February at MCFH (FB). White-crowned Sparrow — Up to 8 during the period in Hart (MS); numbers were lower in Ten this winter, only a single immature was seen (AS). White-throated Sparrow — Only 4 were seen in Ten during January (AS); approximate¬ ly 25 were present at a feeder during January in Mad (JWH). Dark-eyed Junco — One “Oregon” race on 19 December in Warren County (DR); 20 on 7 January at feeder in Bel (FR); 8 on 19 January below Kentucky Dam (Hap, CP); 40 on 19 January at CCSP (FR); 5 to 7 at feeder in Mad during the season (JWH). Lapland Longspur — Up to seven birds were seen between 16 and 22 February at McEL (DR). Red-winged Blackbird — First returned to MCFH on 19 February (FB). Rusty Blackbird — Three on 22 February at McEL (DR). Brown-headed Cowbird — 55 on 9 January and approx. 150 on 15 January at a feeder in Mad (JWH); one on 1 1 January in MCo (AR, TR). House Finch — A pair was observed carrying nesting material in late February in Ten ( VJ, AS). Purple Finch — 15 on 3 January at MCNP (JB, PB); four on 19 January at CCSP (FR); one on 10 February at CKWA (GR). Evening Grosbeak — No reports. 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Contributors - Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Fred Busroe (FB), Flap Chambers (Hap), Brenda Eaden (BE), Tony Eaden (TE), Mike Flynn (MF); Darrell Hancock (DH), James W. Hancock (JWH), Violet Jackson (VJ), Lewis Komman (LK), Robert Miller (RM), Clell Peterson (CP), Frank Renfrew (FR), Art Ricketts (AR), Tina Ricketts (TR), Gary Ritchison (GR), David Roemer (DR), Helga Schutte (HS), Brent Smith (BS), Anne Stamm (AS), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Jim Williams (JW). - UPO 1353, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 THE EFFECTS OF TRANSMITTER WEIGHT ON THE BEHAVIOR AND MOVEMENTS OF DOWNY WOODPECKERS Gary Ritchison Department of Biological Sciences Eastern Kentucky University Richmond, KY 40475 INTRODUCTION Radio tracking is a widely used technique that permits close and accurate monitoring of animal movements. Such tracking enables investigators to collect information that cannot be obtained by any other method. However, attaching transmitters to animals, particularly small, active animals like birds, may have adverse impacts. For example, transmitters may affect forag¬ ing behavior (Massey et al. 1988) and may also interfere with normal flight (Gessaman and Nagy 1988, Hooge 1991). In addition, attaching transmitters may increase mortality rates (Perry 1981, Small and Rusch 1985). These potentially detrimental effects must be weighed against the poten¬ tial benefits of using radio tracking prior to initiating any study. Previous studies have revealed a clear relationship between transmitter package weight and behavior (e.g., Warner and Etter 1983, Gessaman and Nagy 1988, Hooge 1991 ). Obviously, small packages are less likely to affect a bird’s behavior. However, small packages must have small bat¬ teries and, therefore, shorter radio life and reduced transmission range. The best package, there¬ fore, is the one that maximizes weight (and radio life and transmission range) yet minimizes impact. Thus, while the objective of this study was to examine the possible effects of transmitters on the behavior of Downy Woodpeckers (Picoides pubescens), more specifically the objective was to examine the effects of transmitters of different weights on Downy Woodpecker behavior. METHODS This study was conducted form 1 February through 16 June 1994 at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area (CKWMA), located 17 km southeast of Richmond, Madison Co., Kentucky. Feeding stations stocked with sunflower seeds and suet were established on the CKWMA in early February. Beginning on 28 March, Downy Woodpeckers coming to feed at these stations were captured in mist nets. Captured woodpeckers were banded with a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service aluminum band plus a unique combination of colored, plastic bands and were also weighed. Birds were assigned randomly to one of four experimental groups: (1) no transmitter, (2) a 0.9 g transmitter, (3) a 1.1 g transmitter, and (4) a 1.3 g transmitter. All trans¬ mitters (Holohil Systems Ltd., Carp, Ontario, Canada) were attached onto the backs of the birds using skin bond cement (Smith and Nephew United, Inc., Largo, Florida). Prior to transmitter attachment, feathers along an approximately 2 cm strip of the spinal tract (that part of the tract located between the wings) were trimmed to about 2mm in length. A thin layer of skin bond cement was then placed both on the trimmed feathers and the bottom of the transmitter. After five minutes, the transmitter was firmly applied to the feathers and held in place for five minutes. Birds were than held for an additional 5-10 minutes before release to make sure the adhesive had set completely. At least three times per week, an attempt was made to observe each focal bird. Observation periods were generally one to two hours in duration and during each period an attempt was made 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 41 to maintain visual contact with focal birds and describe behaviors and movements on a tape recorder. When in visual contact, the behavior of focal woodpeckers was noted at one-minute intervals. Behaviors were categorized as either “high energy” or “low energy” in a manner simi¬ lar to that described by Hooge (1991). High energy behavior was characterized by actions that include flight or movements that are more energetically costly (Utter and LeFebvre 1970, Bernstein et al. 1973, Fedak et al. 1974, Hails 1979). High energy behaviors included: (1 ) flying, (2) moving (non-flight movements exclusive of those in other behaviors), (3) drumming, (4) peck¬ ing, and (5) calling. Woodpeckers were sometimes observed excavating nest cavities. However, such behavior was exhibited almost exclusively by males (92.4% of all observations) and, there¬ fore, it was not included in the time budget analyses. Low energy behaviors included: (1) preen¬ ing, (2) eating, (3) sitting, and (4) vigilance (sitting and move the head). For all flights where the points of take-off and landing were known, the total distance traveled was estimated. Radio-tagged birds were tracked using receivers (Telonics, Inc., Mesa, AZ) with two-ele¬ ment yagi antennas (Telonics, Inc.). An attempt was made to maintain continuous visual contact with focal birds, and to remain about 25 to 30 m from the focal bird (i.e., far enough from the bird to avoid influencing their behavior). Possible differences in the type and frequency of behaviors exhibited by woodpeckers in the four experimental groups was examined using chi-square tests and Fisher’s exact tests. Possible differences in the length of flights made by birds in the four groups as well as transmission dis¬ tances of the three types of transmitters were examined using non-parametric analysis of variance (ANOVA on ranked data which is equivalent to the Kruskal-Wallis test; SAS Institute 1989). All values are presented as means ± standard errors. All analyses were made using the Statistical Analysis System (SAS Institute 1989). RESULTS Twenty Downy Woodpeckers (10 males and 10 females) were captured during the period from 26 March through 21 May 1994. These woodpeckers were randomly divided into four groups: 1 ) six (3 males and 3 females) of these woodpeckers were not fitted with transmitters, 2) four (2 males and 2 females) were fitted with 0.9 g transmitters, 3) five (3 males and 2 females) with 1 . 1 g transmitters, and 4) five (4 females and 1 male) with 1.3 g transmitters. The mean mass of captured woodpeckers was 27.4 ± 0.6 gms (N = 20), with no significant difference in mass among woodpeckers in the four groups (F = 2.17, P = 0.165) or between males and females (F = 0.17, P = 0.68). The transmitter weight/woodpecker mass ratio varied significantly (F = 19.9, P = 0.0003) among the three groups with transmitters, with a mean ratio of 3.5 ±0.1% for the wood¬ peckers with 0.9 g transmitters, 4.0 ±0.1% for those with 1.1 g transmitters, and 4.5 ± 0.2% for those with 1.3 g transmitters. Downy Woodpeckers were observed for 131 hours (N = 86 observation periods) over 81 days (28 March through 16 June 1994). Downies possessed relatively large ranges, made frequent and relatively long (x = 21.2 ± 0.9 m; N = 851) flights, and typically foraged high in the canopy. Such characteristics made observations difficult and, as a result, focal birds were in sight only 27% of the time (35.3 hrs; with groups 1 through 4 listed above observed for 10.1, 7.8, 8.3, and 9. 1 hrs, respectively). ACTIVITIES Downy Woodpeckers in the four experimental groups exhibited significant differences (%2 = 33.7, df = 3, P < 0.0001) in the frequency of high versus low energy behaviors (Figure 1). Additional analyses revealed that birds in Group 4 (1.3 g transmitters) exhibited significantly less high energy activity than those in the other three groups (Fisher’s exact tests, P < 0.0009). Comparison of woodpeckers in groups 1 (no transmitters), 2 (0.9 g transmitters), and 3 (1.1 g transmitters) revealed no significant differences in the frequency in high and low energy behav¬ iors (Fisher’s exact tests, P > 0.05). Woodpeckers in the four groups differed significantly in the frequency with which the var- Percent of time Percent of time 42 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 No transmitter tter tier ^0 9 g transm 1.1 g transm 1 .3 g transm High-energy Low-energy Activity No transmitter 0.9 g transmitter 1.1 g transmitter 1.3 g transmitter Call Drum Fly Move Peck Preen Sit Vigilant Activity 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 ious behaviors were performed (%2 = 1 15.2, df = 24, P < 0.0001 ). Specifically, birds in Group 4 ( 1 .3 g transmitters) exhibited significantly higher rates (yl = 29.7, df = 3, P < 0.001 ) of vigilance behavior, a low energy behavior (Figure 2). In addition, woodpeckers in Group 4 performed two high energy behaviors at significantly lower rates: calling (%2 - 14.3, df = 3, P < 0.01) and drum¬ ming (%2 - 32.6, df = 3, P < 0.00 1 ) (Figure 2). Woodpeckers in the four groups also differed significantly in frequency of pecking (^2 = 16.7, df = 3, P < 0.001 ) (Figure 2). However, no clear relationship between frequency of pecking and transmitter weight was apparent (Figure 2). Birds in Groups 2 (0.9 g transmitters) pecked at a higher frequency than those in the other groups while birds in Groups 1 (no transmitters) and 4 ( 1 .3 g transmitters) pecked at lower frequencies. Birds in the four groups did not differ significantly in the frequency of flights (y2 = 2.7, df = 3, P > 0.05) or the mean distance of flights (F = 0.62, P = 0.60). Further, no differences among the four groups were found in the frequency of moving (^2 = 5.83, df = 3, P > 0.05), sitting (%2 = 3.2, df = 3, P < 0.05), or preening {%2 - 4.2, df = 3, P > 0.05). Other high eneigy behaviors (dis¬ playing and copulating) plus one low energy behavior (eating) were observed too infrequently for meaningful comparisons. Transmitter - length of attachment, battery life, and fate of radio-tagged birds Eight radio-tagged woodpeckers (N = 4 males and 4 females) lost their transmitters prior to battery failure, and these transmitters were lost an average of 16 ± 2.8 days (Range = 5-29 days) after attachment. All of these woodpeckers were observed after loss of the radios. The transmitter (a 0.9 g transmitter) on one woodpecker (female) was still attached when the battery failed (30 days) and subsequent observations of this bird indicated that the transmitter was lost about 10 days later. Overall, therefore, transmitters remained attached for an average of 18.7 ± 3.7 days for the nine woodpeckers that lost radios either before or after battery failure. Only one transmitter remained on a bird until battery failure, and the battery on that trans¬ mitter (a 0.9 g transmitter) lasted 30 days. Three other transmitters were still functioning when lost at 20, 23, and 29 days after attachment, respectively. Radio-contact was lost with three woodpeckers, and none of these birds was seen again. As a result, it was not known whether these transmitters failed or the radio-tagged birds moved out of the study area. Contact was lost an average of 14.3 days (Range = 7-19 days) after transmit¬ ters were attached. One transmitter failed within 24 hrs. after attachment. This individual was recaptured 21 days later and the transmitter, still firmly attached, was removed. Finally, one Downy Woodpecker (female) was found dead (with the transmitter still firmly attached) 12 days after transmitter attachment. No injuries were apparent and the cause of death was unknown. DISCUSSION Analysis of time budgets plus observations in the field suggest that the behavior of Downy Woodpeckers fitted with transmitters weighing either 0.9 or 1.1 gs did not differ from that of woodpeckers without transmitters. Although there was some variation among these groups in the rates at which some behaviors (e.g., pecking) were performed, birds with these transmitters did perform high energy behaviors at the same rate as birds without transmitters. In contrast, wood¬ peckers with 1 .3 g transmitters performed one low energy behavior (vigilance) at significantly higher rates and two high energy behaviors (calling and drumming) at significantly lower rates. Such results suggest that the increased energetic costs associated with carrying these heavier transmitters may have altered their behavior. Further, although the cause of death could not be attributed to the transmitter, the one woodpecker found dead during the study was carrying a 1.3 g transmitter. Cochran (1980) suggested that transmitter packages should not weigh more than 5% of a bird’s body mass. However, recent studies indicate that this “5% rule” is too liberal. For example, Gessaman and Nagy (1988) found that homing pigeons (Columba livia) carrying 5% transmitter 44 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 loads on a 320 km flight produced 85 - 100% more carbon dioxide. Hooge ( 1991 ) reported that Acorn Woodpeckers (Melanerpes formicivorus) carrying 4.5 g transmitters (5.1 - 5.9% of body mass) showed decreased rates of high energy behavior. Similarly, the results of the present study suggest that 1 .3 g transmitters (4.5% of body mass) altered the behavior of Downy Woodpeckers. However, the results of this study also indicate that the behavior of birds carrying 0.9 g transmit¬ ters (3.5% of body mass) or 1.1 g transmitters (4.0% of body mass) did not differ from that of birds without transmitters. Different species appear to differ in their abilities to carry transmitters. For example, Gessaman et al. ( 1991 ) found that the metabolic rates of Barred Owls (Strix varia) did not vary when carrying transmitter packages weighing 2%, 5%, or 10% of their body mass. One poten¬ tially important factor is the frequency and type of flight a species exhibits. For example, Hooge (1991) found that Acorn Woodpeckers spend large amounts of time flycatching from perches. The weight of a transmitter package may substantially increase metabolic needs for such species. Other species, such as Downy Woodpeckers, make relatively shorter flights, both in terms of dis¬ tance and duration, and do not depend on flight to capture prey (i.e., flycatching). Also, flights made by woodpeckers are often in a downward direction, requiring reduced lift. Downy Woodpeckers, for example, typically climb up a tree while foraging, then, after reaching or near¬ ing the top, fly downward (or at least horizontally) to another nearby tree (pers. observ.). As a result, the “metabolic cost” of a transmitter for Downy Woodpeckers may be lower than for other, more flight-dependent, species of birds. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I thank the Kentucky Dept, of Fish and Wildlife Resources for financial support, and Tom Mahan, Jeff Hawkins, and Carlo Abbruzzese for assisting with the field work. LITERATURE CITED Bernstein, M.H., S.P. Thomas, and K. Schmidt-Nielsen. 1973. Power input during flight of the Fish Crow, Corvus ossifragus, J. Exper. Biol. 58:401-410. Cochran, W.W. 1980. Wildlife telemetry, Pp. 507-520 in Wildlife Management Techniques man¬ ual, fourth edition (S.D. Schemnitz, ed.). Wildlife Soc., Washington, D.C. Fedak, M.A., B. Pinshow, and K. Schmidt-Nielsen. 1974. Energy cost of bipedal running. Amer. J. Physiol. 277:1038-1044. Gessaman, J.A., M.R. Fuller, P.J. Pekins, and G.E. Duke. 1991. Resting metabolic rate of Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, and Barred Owls with a tracking transmitter or an equivalent load. Wilson Bull. 103:261-265. Gessaman, J.A. and K.A. Nagy. 1988. Transmitter loads affect the flight speed and metabolism of homing pigeons. Condor 90:662-668. Hail, C.J. 1979. A comparison of flight energetics in hirundines and other birds. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. 63A:58 1-585. Hooge, P.N. 1991. The effects of radio weight and harnesses on time budgets and movements of Acorn Woodpeckers. J. Field Omithol. 62:230-238. Massey, B.W., K. Keane, and C. Boardman. 1988. Adverse effects of radio transmitters on the behavior of nesting Least Terns. Condor 90:945-947. Perry, M.C. 1981. Abnormal behavior of Canvasbacks equipped with radio transmitters. J. Wildl. Manage. 45:786-789. SAS Institute. 1989. SAS user’s guide: statistics. 1989 ed. SAS Institute, Cary, NC. Small, R.J. and D.H. Rusch. 1985. Backpacks vs. ponchos: survival and movements of radio- marked Ruffed Grouse. Wildl. Soc. Bull. 13:163-165. Utter, J.M. and E.A. LeFebvre. 1970. Eneigy expenditure for free flight by the Purple Martin (Progne subis). Comp. Biochem. Physiol. 35:713-719. Warner, R.E. and S.L. Etter. 1983. Reproduction and survival of radio-marked hen Ring-necked Pheasants in Illinois. J. Wildl. Manage. 47:369-375. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 45 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY SPRING MEETING April 25-27, 1997 The Kentucky Ornithological Society' held its spring meeting at Barren River State Resort Park April 25-27, 1997. President Wayne Mason brought the meeting to order and asked Vice- president Wendell Kingsolver to preside over Friday evening’s program. Wayne Mason showed slides of birds he had seen during a short stop at a marsh just South of Bowling Green adjacent to 1-65. Then Sunni Lawless showed slides, discussed the Partners in Flight program, and told how the KOS could help. The last formal presentation Friday evening was that of Marvin Russell; he discussed different issues one should take into account when buy¬ ing binoculars. Then Wendell asked whether any members had slides or stories to tell of their recent birding exploits. The birding trips on Saturday included the Transient Lakes near Bowling Green, the Mammoth Cave National Park, and different areas around the state park. The weather was coo! but sunny in the morning and warm but cloudy in the afternoon. Saturday evening, Lee McNeely showed slides and told of his travels and travails to Attu Island in the Aleutian Islands. Special note was made of the accommodations (crowded, damp, and airy) and means of transportation (foot and bicycle). While he admitted that he would prob¬ ably not go back, he was glad that he had gone. The birds he saw there were birds that migrate from the Far East to Siberia and stop over on Attu. The Sunday morning trips were to the Transient Lakes again and the vicinity of the hotel. The weather on Sunday was rainy. Future meetings are Fall, 1997; Pine Mountain State Park, Oct. 3-5 Spring, 1 998: tentatively planned for either Otter Creek State Park or General Butler State Park, April 24-26 Fall, 1998; the board recommended Kentucky Dam Village, Sept. 25-27 or Oct. 2-4. ATTENDANCE AT THE SPRING MEETING BEREA; Art Ricketts and Tina Ricketts BOWLING GREEN: Clint Blankenship, Lester Doyle, Diane Elmore, Jackie B. Elmore, Blaine Ferrell, Lawrence Finley, Wayne Mason, David Roemer, and Marvin Russell BURLINGTON: Lee McNeely CANEYVILLE: Mary Harrel CARLISLE: Ginriy Kingsolver and Wendell Kingsolver COX’S CREEK: Dona Coates DANVILLE: Ginny Eklund and Neil Eklund FALLS OF ROUGH: Kathryn Clay and Joyce Porter FRANKFORT: Jim Durell and Sunni Lawless GILBERTS ViLLE. Rowena Cary GREENVILLE: Becky Keith and Willard Keith LEXINGTON: Jim Williams LOUISVILLE: Austin Bloch, Mary Frances Bloch, Celia Lawrence, J. David McNeely, Wanda McNeely, and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. 46 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe MORGANTOWN: Carroll Tichenor and Doris Tichenor MUNFORDVILLE: Steve Kistler OWENSBORO: Janet Howard, Marilee Thompson, Wendell Thompson, and Bill Tyler PADUCAH: Bernice Caddell, Bonnie McNeely, and Sam McNeely RICHMOND: Brenda Thompson and Pete Thompson RUSSELLVILLE: Mark Bennett UTICA: Brenda Eaden and Tony Eaden WINCHESTER: Lowell Strine and Susan Strine DYERSBURG, TN: Betty Leggett and Ken Leggett BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE SPRING MEETING, 1997 Birds observed on Friday and Saturday field trips at Barren River State Park and the Temporary Lakes, Warren County were Common Loon, Pied-billed Grebe, Homed Grebe, Eared Grebe, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Green Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Green-winged Teal, Mallard, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Ruddy Duck, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, Sora, Common Moorhen, American Coot, Black-bellied Plover, Lesser Golden-Plover, Semipalmated Plover, Killdeer, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary Sandpiper, Willet, Spotted Sandpiper, Upland Sandpiper, Western Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper. Pectoral Sandpiper, Common Snipe, Wilson’s Phalarope, Franklin's Gull, Bonaparte’s Gull, Ring¬ billed Gull, Herring Gull, Caspian Tem, Common Tern, Forster's Tern, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Eastern Screech-Owl, Chuck-will’s-widow, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe, Eastern Kingbird, Purple Martin, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough¬ winged Swallow, Bank Swallow, Cliff Swallow, Bam Swallow. Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, House Wren, Marsh Wren, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, American Pipit, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Yellow Warbler. Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow-throat¬ ed Warbler, Pine Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Palm Warbler, Ovenbird, Kentucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, White -crowned Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark. Brewer's Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, House Finch, American Goldfinch, and House Sparrow for a total of 131 species. Virginia Rail, Western Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue Grosbeak. Grasshopper Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, and Bobolink were added from Sunday morning field trips bringing the total to 140 species for the weekend. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 47 KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY TREASURER S REPORT September 6, 1996 - April 24, 1997 Beginning Balance Receipts Membership Dues $ 3,166.00 Life Memberships 500.00 Gordon Wilson Fund 33.00 Sale of Annotated Checklists 44.76 Sale of Warbler back issues 6.00 Sale of Field Checklists 31.11 Fall Meeting Registration 126.00 $ 3,906.87 Disbursements United Graphics (3 Warblers) $ 3,684.66 United Graphics (Checklists) 313.60 United Graphics (Envelopes) 90.00 Postage 285.00 Bell South 135.02 Ky. State Treasurer (Sales Tax) 29.52 Great Impressions (Bank Stamp) 13.50 Kay Mudd (Misc. reimbursement) 178.66 Pat Bell (Phone tapes) 8.47 Anne Stamm (reimbursement) 10.38 Michael Hamm (life member refund) 100.00 $ 4,848.75 Ending Balance April 24, 1997 $2,735.64 $ 3,906.87 $ 6,642.51 $ 4,848.75 $ 1,793.76 Lee McNeely, Treasurer 48 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 NEWS AND VIEWS Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at (502) 894-9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S. Avian Research Grant Fund The Kentucky Ornithological Society has initiated an Avian Research Grant Fund. Persons that need money (i.e., up to $500.00) to assist them in conducting research on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 for a set of guidelines and an application form. Kentucky Bird Records Committee Rare bird sightings should be well documented and the documentation should be sent to Lee McNeely, Secretary of the KBRC, for consideration by the committee. (Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005.) K.O.S. Fall Meeting The fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will meet October 3 through 5 at Pine Mountain State Park, Please make plans to attend and make your reservations early. The K.O.S. group rate for lodge rooms will be $50.96/single and 60.23/double (tentative figures). Rooms will be held until August 3, so call 1-800-325-1712 and make your reservations early. The meeting will feature a hawk watch at the Cumberland Gap as part of the Saturday morning field trips. If you plan on presenting information at the Friday evening meeting, please contact Wendell Kingsolver, Shepherd Hill, Carlisle, KY. K.O.S. Field Trip FALLS OF THE OHIO Saturday 9 August, 8 a.m. EDT to 12:00 noon at the Falls of the Ohio for shorebirds, herons, and other wading birds. Meet at the Pennsylvania Railroad bridge in Clarksville, Inidana. Wear footwear for shallow wading. The leader is Jim Pasikoski (502-897-2925). WESTERN KENTUCKY Saturday through Sunday August 30-31 in western Kentucky for shorebirds and western Kentucky specialties. Meet at the parking lot below Barkley Dam on the east side off highway 62 on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. CDT. The leader is Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (502-426-8549). MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK September 27 at 7:00 a.m. at noon at Mammoth Cave for fall migrants. Meet at the visitor's center of Mammoth Cave National Park at 7:00 a.m. CDT. The leader is Steve Kistler (502-524-1095). SLOUGHS WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA Sunday, October 1 2 at the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County for water birds and fail migrants. Meet at the Holiday Inn off 1-65 in Clarksville, Indiana at 7:00 a.m. EDT for carpooling or meet at McDonald’s in Henderson at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Bring a lunch and shoes for wading. The leader is Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (502-426-8549). The Kentucky Warbler (Published by Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOLl73 _ AUGUST 1997 _ NO. 3 ALBERT u, mank LIBRARY btp i 8 m 'THACA, NY 148*~ IN THIS ISSUE THE SPRING SEASON, 1997, Fred Busroe . 51 COMPARISON OF LONG-EARED AND SHORT-EARED OWL WINTER FOOD HABITS ON A RECLAIMED STRIPMINE IN WESTERN KENTUCKY, Angela Machniak and Charles Elliott . 58 KENTUCKY MIDWINTER EAGLE CENSUS SUMMARY, 1997, Laura Burford and Jim Durell . 65 FIELD NOTE . 67 NEWS AND VIEWS . . 67 50 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 73 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corr. Secretary . Treasurer . Recording Secretary . Councillors: Mark Bennett, Russellville .. Steve Kistler, Munfordville . Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden . Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough Retiring President . . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely PO. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Neil Eklund, Danville . 1996-1998 . 1996-1998 . 1997-1999 . 1997-1999 . Herbert Clay, Jr., Falls of Rough 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F. W. ) Stamm Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely PO. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER Thanks go to Philippe Roca for the cover photograph of a House Wren, Troglodytes aedon. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 51 THE SPRING SEASON, 1997 Fred M Busroe This season has been one of extremes, record rainfall to start the month of March (Louisville had 12+ inches in 36 hours) then record flooding in much of central Kentucky. March was the third wettest month on record. Snow showers occurred April 13 with the average temperature 15 degrees below normal. The transient lakes, McElroy and Chaney, in Warren County were filled dur¬ ing the season and had some unusual species and large numbers of others. Cinna¬ mon Teal, Tufted Duck and at least three Eared Grebes were seen during March and April. The cold weather seemed to slow down normal movement, however most observers rated the warbler movement as good. Abbreviations: Aud = Audubon State Park, Henderson County; AJJ = A.J. Jolly Park, Campbell County; BARN = Barren River State Park, Barren County; Bar = Barkley Dam, Lyon County; BarL = Barkley Lake, Lyon County; Ber = Berea, Madison County; Bern = Bernheim Forest, Nelson County; BBP = Big Bone State Park, Boone County; BNP = Beargrass Nature Preserve, Jefferson County; BCNP = Boone County Cliffs Nature Preserve; Bon = Bondurant, Fulton County; Burl = Burlington, Boone County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; CL#4 = City Lake #4, Hopkins County; Cra = Craig’s Creek, Carroll County; CKWM = Central Kentucky WMA, Madison County; Doz = Dozier Lake, Hopkins County, EBP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; Falls = Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County; Fer = Ferry Farm, Butler County; FtT = Fort Thomas, Campbell County; Ful = Fulton County; Ghe = Ghent Power Plant, Carroll County; Hie = Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County; Jon = Jonathan Creek, Marshall County; KYL = Kentucky Lake, Marshall County; KOS = Kentucky Ornithologi¬ cal Society; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; Lau = Laurel County; Len = Lentz Pond, Jefferson County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; McEl = McElroy Lake; Warren County; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park, Edmonson County; Mar = Markland Dam, Gallatin County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; Mid = Middle Creek Park, Boone County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; Mis = Mississippi River, Carlisle County; OLL = Outer Loop Landfill, Jefferson County; Pet = Pe¬ tersburg, Boone County; Pul = Pulaski County; Saw = Tom Sawyer State Park, Jefferson County; Silo = Silo Overlook, Lyon County; Sil = Silver Grove, Campbell County; Slo = Sloughs WMA, Henderson; Swif = Swift’s Camp Creek Trail, Red River Gorge, Wolfe County; UK = University of Kentucky farm, Fayette County; War = Warsaw Sewage Plant, Gallatin County; Wav = Waverly Park, Jefferson County; West = Westvaco WMA, Carlisle County; Wol = Wolper Creek, Boone County. 52 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 73 Common Loon - Three on 20 March at LBL (CP); one on 26 March near Ber (AT, TR); six on 2 April on Lau Lake (CB); one on 14 April at CEL (LMc); one on 27 April at Mar (LMc). Pied-billed Grebe - seven on 27 March at CL#4 (JWH); 26 on 11 April at Hie (CP). Horned Grebe - Two on 20- March at Lake Reba near Ber (AT, TR); one on 29 March at Mel (LMc); one on 5 April at CEL (LMc); two on 10 April in Meade County (FR). Eared Grebe - One in winter plumage on 20 April at Mel (FR); one to three at McEl during March and April and on KOS field trip (DR, many observers). American White Pelican - 55 on 20 March, 59 on 2 April and five on 1 1 April at Hie (CP). Double-crested Cormorant - 18 on 2 April on Mis (CP); 60 on 9 April at Falls (FR); 40 on 11 April at Falls (FR); eight at Falls and 84 at Slo on 1 8 April (JB, PB); 59 on 24 April at Hie (CP); 60 + on 9 May above Mar (LMc); 17 on 10 May on Ohio River, Boone County (LMc). American Bittern - One on 24 April near Pet (LMc); one on 17 May near EBP (LMc). Great Blue Heron - 62 on 11 April at Hie (CP); as high as 40 at MCFH during April (FB). Great Egret - Nine on 2 April and 100+ on 9 May at Hie (CP); three on 19 April at FBF (JB, PB); one on 10 May at EBP (LMc). Snowy Egret - One on 9 May at Hie (CP). Little Blue Heron - Two on 24 April at Hie (CP). Cattle Egret - Six on 3 May near Hie (CP); two on 9 May at Hie (CP). Green Heron - 27 on 17 May at farm pond near Mad (JWH). Black-crowned Night-Heron - 90 on 9 April and 100+ on 1 1 April at Falls (FR); one on 6 May at Saw (JB, PB); two on 1 1 May at Bar (Hap, CP). Greater White-fronted Goose - One at McEl from 3 to 9 March (DR). Snow Goose - Present through 15 April at McEl DR) Ross’ Goose - One on 7 March at MCFH (FB, LK). Wood Duck - Four to six from 1 1 to 15 March at Fer (CT, DT). Green-winged Teal - Six to eight were present during March near Pet (LMc); 90 on 2 April near Bon (CP); four on 6 April at Cha (DC, JB, PB); nine on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Blue-winged Teal - 10 on 31 March at UK (WD); rather common in Campbell and Bracken counties during April (FR); 150 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Cinnamon Teal - One was seen by many observers on 20 April at McEl (reported by JB, PB, PB, CF, DR). Northern Shoveler - 1 1 on 27 March at Mel (FR); 20 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Tufted Duck - Many observations during March and April at McEl (reported by 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 53 JB, PB, DC). Gadwall - Four on 6 April at McEl (JB, PB, DC). American Wigeon - Five on 2 April at Mel (FR); 4 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Canvasback - 12 on 1 March at Mel (FR); one male at MCFH during the entire period (FB). Redhead - 15 on 2 March at Mel (FR); four on 20 April at McEl (JB, PB, CL). Ring-necked Duck - 20 on 1 March at Mel plus 20 on Ohio River at Campbell County (FR); 30 on 15 March at Len (JB, PB); 60 on 20 March at Mel (FR). Lesser Scaup - 120 on 20 March at Mel (FR); 60 on 27 March at Mel (FR). Scaup spp. - Raft of 60 on Lau Lake on 2 April (CB). Oldsquaw - Two on 23 March at Mel (FR). Bufflehead - Small numbers were present during March in northern Kentucky (LMc); two on 27 March at CL#4 (JWH). Red-breasted Merganser - One m. and one f. on Lau Lake on 2 April (CB); one to four were present on 5 April at EBP and Ohio River, Boone County (LMc); two on 11 April at KYL (CP). Ruddy Duck - 16 on 10 March at CL#4 (JWH); one to 13 were present 14 March to 15 April at CEL (LMc). Black Vulture - Six on 35 April at Shakertown (WD); two on 9 May in Ful (CP; fairly widespread during the season in northern Kentucky (LMc). Turkey Vulture - Most of the older roosts on Reelfoot Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County and near Murphy’s Pond, Graves County seem to be abandoned or relocated (CP). Osprey - One on 19 April at BBP (LMc); three on 19 April at LBL (JB, PB, CL); one at Mel on 22 April (FR); two nesting at Silo and two were nesting near the bridge BarL on 23 April (CP). Mississippi Kite - Eight on 7 May in Fulton County (DR). Bald Eagle - Two at an active nest site on 2 April at Hie (CP); two adults + two eaglets on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Northern Harrier - Four on 20 March in Ful (CP); two on 2 April at a re¬ claimed stripmine in Lau (CB); one on 7 April at CKWA (WD). Sharp-shinned Hawk - One on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB). Cooper’s Hawk - One in eastern Jefferson County on 14 March (JB, PB). Broad-winged Hawk - One on 6 May at FtT (FR). Red-tailed Hawk - Adult feeding young in nest on 19 April near Sil (FR); two young were fledged near Wol (LMc). Peregrine Falcon - One on 26 and 29 April at McEl (DR). Wild Turkey - Six on 2 April in Lau (CB); five on 19 April and two on 26 April at MCNP (JB, PB, CL); three on 3 May in Calloway County (CP). King Rail - One at Slo on 12 April (DR). Virginia Rail — One on 12 April at Slo (DR). Sora - Two on 6 May and one on 11 May at Sil (FR); one on 10 May at Pet (LMc). 54 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Common Moorhen - One on 20 and 22 April at Cha (DR). American Coot - Abundant in Hie and KYL during late season (CP); 91 on 20 March at LPew (JWH); 49 on 27 March at Doz (JWH); approx. 8,000 on 2 April at McEl (LK, SK). Black-bellied Plover - three on 21 May at Open Pond, Fulton County (CP). American Golden Plover - two on 20 April at McEl (JP, PB, CL); 200 + on 24 April at Hie (CP). Semipalmated Plover - three on 20 April at Cha (JB, PB, CL); eight on 21 May at Hie (CP). Killdeer - Nest with four eggs located on 29 March at AJJ (LMc); pair hatched four young on 8 April at Fer (CT, DT). Greater Yellowlegs - 100+ on 29 March and 11 April at Hie (CP); seven on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB); 15 on 4 May at OLL (JB, PB). Lesser Yellowlegs - 60 on 11 April at Hie (CP); seven on 26 April at OLL (JB, PB). Solitary Sandpiper - One on 1 1 April in Ful (CP); four on 19 April at Slo (JB, PB); six on 10 May at EBP (LMc). Spotted Sandpiper - Several single sightings on 1 1 April near Open Pond, Hie (CP); four on 4 May at the Falls (JB, PB); eight at Ghe and three at War on 9 May (LMc); two on 10 and 17 May at EBP (LMc); three on 18 May at CL#1 (JWH). Semipalmated Sandpiper - 40 on 11 April near Open Pond, Hie (CP); 20 on 17 May at EBP (LMc). Least Sandpiper - 80 on 11 April near Open Pond, Hie (CP); 25 on 9 May at Ghe (LMc); five on 17 May at EBP (LMc). Pectoral Sanpiper - 12 on 6 April at Cha (JB, PB, DC); one on 10 April at CEL (LMc); 50 on 11 April at Open Pond, Hie (CP); 25 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB); four on 9 May at Cra (LMc); 120 on 21 May in Ful (CP). Dunlin - 16 with some in breeding plumage on 1 1 April at Open Pond, Hie (CP). Stilt Sandpiper - On e on 11 April at Open Pond, Hie (CP); one on 4 May at Sen (JB, PB). Common Snipe - Six on 29 March at Hie (CP); 20 on 6 April at Cha (JB, PB, DC); 15 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Bonaparte’s Gull - 500 + on 20 March at Hie, very common in Bottoms this year, may be due to Hooding of Mississippi River (CP); 10 on 29 March at Mel (LMc). Ring-billed Gull - 200 + on 2 March, which is unusual at Hie (CP). Thayer’s gull - two on 28 March at KYL (DR). Glaucous Gull - One at KYL on 28 March (DR); one on 1 3 April near Bar (Hap, CP). Lesser Black-backed Gull - One at KYL on 28 March (DR). Forster’s Tern - Eight on 9 May at Cra (LMc); 12 on 11 May on KYL (Hap, 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 55 CP). Least Tern - Four on 21 May at Hie (CP). Black Tern - One on 9 May at Cra (LMc); 16 on II May on KYL (Hap, CP). Black-billed Cuckoo - One at Central Park, Boone County on 17 May (LMc). Yellow-billed Cuckoo - One on 6 May at Saw (JB, PB). Eastern Screech-Owl - Nest with young was located on 17 May at Mid (LMc). Great Horned Owl - Four (2 ad. and 2 imm.) on 1 1 April in Wav (JB, PB, CL); nest located on 15 April with two young present until 28 April at the Greater Cincinnati Airport, Boone County (KC). Barred Owl - One on nest on 15 March and one young seen on same nest on 4 May at Wav (JB, PB, CL); a nest was located on 19 April, one young bird was present until early May at Mid (KC). Chuck- will’s- widow - One at BARN on 24 April (AR, TR). Chimney Swift - First reported on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Ruby-throated Hummingbird - One on 19 April at LBL (JB, PB, CL). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker - One on 15 April in Jefferson County and three at Aud on 12 April (JB, PB). Yellow-bellied Flycatcher - One on 26 and 27 May at Ber (AR, TR). Willow Flycatcher - One seen on 10 and 26 May near Pet (LMc); one to three at MCFH during late May (FB). Least Flycatcher - One on 26 and 27 May at Ber (AR, TR). Eastern Phoebe - Nest with four eggs located on 12 April at Mid (LMc). Great Crested Flycatcher - One on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB). Eastern Kingbird - 21 on 9 May along levee at Hie (CP). Horned Lark - 18 on 20 March at Hie (CP); two on 2 April in Lau (CB); three on 20 April at McEl (JB, PB, CL); two in eastern Jefferson County on 4 May (JB, PB). Purple Martin - Six on 2 April at nest gourds in Sil (FR); six on 1 2 April at Aud (JB, PB). Tree Swallow - 500+ on 1 1 April near Hie and 200 + on 1 3 April at Jon (CP); 100 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Northern Rough-winged Swallow - 50 on 11 April near Hie (CP); 100 on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB). Bank Swallow - Two on 3 and 10 May in Jefferson County (JB, PB). Cliff Swallow - 50 on 13 April attempting to nest on bridge over Jon (CP); 30+ on 19 April at LBL (JB, PB, CL); 10 at nest on 14 May at Mel (FR). Fish Crow - Eight along levee at Hie and four at West on 24 April (CP). Red-breasted Nuthatch - Male carrying food on 20 May at Swif and one on 22 May (TR). House Wren - One on 12 March, an early date, at CKWA (WD); three on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB). Bewick’s Wren - One on 10 May at Brown Park, Jefferson County (JB, PB). Golden-crowned Kinglet - three on 15 March at Ber (JB, PB). Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 20 on 21 April at BNP (JB, PB). 56 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 73 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher - Three on 2 April in Lau (CB); 10 on 12 April at Slo and Aud (JB, PB); 30 on 21 April at BNP (JB, PB); nest found on 10 May at EBP (LMc). Veery - Two on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB); one on 9 May at Mar (LMc); three on 17 May at BCNP (LMc). Gray-cheeked Thrush - One on 17 May at Bur (LMc). Swainson’s Thrush - 10 on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB); one at Hopkins County farm from 10 to 20 May (JWH). Hermit Thrush - One on 2 April in Lau (CB); two on 21 April and 6 May in Jefferson County (JB, PB). Wood Thrush - Three on 19 April at MCNP (JB, PB, CL); nest was located on 26 May at BCNP (LMc). Brown Thrasher - Three on 20 March in Mad (JWH). American Pipit - Six on 6 April and four on 20 April at Che (JB, PB, DC, CL). Cedar Waxwing - 45 on 22 April in Lexington (WD); 15 on 31 May at Ber (JB, PB, DC). Loggerhead Shrike - One at UK on 19 March (WD); three along levee on 2 April near Hie (CP). White-eyed Vireo - Lirst heard in Mad on 1 April in Lau (CB); 10 on 19 April at LBL (JB, PB, CL). Solitary Vireo - Possible courting pair on 2 April in Lau (CB); one on 28 April at BNP (JB, PB); a pair showing territorial behavior on 24 May at Swif (LMc). Yellow-throated Vireo - Live on 19 April at LBL (JB, PB, CL); two on 26 April at MCNP (JB, PB). Red-eyed Vireo - Live on 26 April at MCNP (JB, PB); first observed in Mad on 30 April (JWH). Warbler movement was generally fair, but late due to weather. Most common species were reported across the state. Tennessee Warbler - Observed near Mad from 30 April to 20 May (JWH). Nashville Warbler - 10 on 10 May at BCNP (LMc). Northern Parula - Pour on 20 May and three on 22 May at Swif (PR). Chestnut-sided Warbler - 10 on 10 May at BCNP (LMc). Magnolia Warbler - Seven on 10 May at BCNP (LMc). Cape May Warbler - One to three from 5 to 16 May at Bur (LMc). Black-throated Blue Warbler - One near Ber on 2 May (AR, TR); one on 9 May at Mar and two at BCNP on 10 May (LMc). Yellow-rumped Warbler - Last recorded in Mad 1 May (JWH). Black-throated Green Warbler - 10 in sw Lau on 2 April (CB); 20 on 20 May and 6 on 22 May at Swif (PR). Blackburnian Warbler - Seven on 10 May at BCNP (LMc). Yellow-throated Warbler - Seven in sw Lau on 2 April (CB). Black-and-White Warbler - Six on 20 May and eight on 22 may at Swif (PR). Ovenbird - Lirst heard in Mad area on 1 May (JWH); 10 on 20 May and 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 57 10 on 22 May at Swif (FR). Northern Waterthrush - On 9 May single birds were seen at Bur and at Mar with 2 at Steele’s Bottom, Gallatin County (LMc); three on 10 May at EBP ((LMc). Louisiana Waterthrush - One on 1 1 April on a Mad farm (JWH); one on 2 May at Ber (AR, TR). Canada Warbler - One on 17 May at BCNP (LMc). Worm-eating Warbler - Three on 22 May at Swif (FR); four on 26 May at BCNP (LMc). Swainson’s Warbler - Two on 20 May at Swif (FR); two on 24 May at Swif (LMc). Hooded Warbler - 10 on 22 May at Swif (FR). Summer Tanager - One on 19 May at LBL, one on 4 May at Wav and one at Bern on 31 May (JB, PB, DC, CL); one in song in Mad (JWH). Scarlet Tanager - Two on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB); Rose-breasted Grosbeak - Male and female at Mad feeder from 30 April to 18 May (JWH); three on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB); seven at feeder from 4 to 20 May in Murray (CP). Blue Grosbeak - One on 1 8 May at Fer (CT, DT); male present in Mad from 3 May to 29 May (JWH); one male at airport, Pendleton County and two along AA Highway, Bracken County on 30 May (FR). Dickcissel - One in Oldham County on 4 May and 6 May (JB, PB); three from 10 to 26 May at Pet (LMc); birds singing at three Logan County sites, number is increasing (SK). Vesper Sparrow - One on 25 March at MCFH (FB, LK); one on 2 April at reclaimed stipmine in Lau (CB). Savannah Sparrow - Eight on 12 May at Slo (JB, PB); one on 10 May at EBP (LMc). Grasshopper Sparrow - One on 24 May in Lexington (AT, TR). Lincoln’s Sparrow - One on 8 May at BNP (JB, PB). Swamp Sparrow - Six on 12 April at Slo (JB, PB); three on 10 May at a Pet marsh (LMc). White-throated Sparrow - Last seen on 23 April at Fer (CT, DT); last observed in Mad on 10 May (JWH). White-crowned Sparrow - One to three at a Mad feeder from 4 to 17 May (JWH); one on 17 May at Fer (CT, DT). Dark-eyed Junco - 46 were present on 15 March at Ber (JB, PB); last observed on 16 April in Mad (JWH); one on 3 May at Highland Cemetery, Kenton County (LMc). Lapland Longspur - Three on 27 March at McEl (DR). Bobolink - One on 3 May at the Greater Cincinnati Airport (LMc); six from 3 to 10 May in Logan County (SK); seven on 4 May in Oldham County and three on 6 May at BNP (JB, PB); 100+ on 9 May along levee at Hie (CP); five on 19 May and six on 22 May were singing and 58 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 displaying near Canewood in Clark County (FR); six in Lexington on 24 May (AR, TR). Orchard Oriole - Seven on 3 May at Greenwood Park, Louisville and three on 4 May at BNP (JB, PB); one was building a nest near Pet on 26 May (LMc). Baltimore Oriole - One in Mad which is unusual for the area, from 4 to 17 May (JWH). Brewer’s Blackbird - Over 300 at McEl on 25 March (DR). Purple Finch - 3 1 on 16 March and three on 26 April at MCNP and two on 24 April at BNP (JB, PB); four on 2 April at Lau feeder (CB). Red Crossbill - Five on 15 March at Bern (JB, PB). No reports of Evening Grosbeaks. Contributors - Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Clay Black (CB), Fred Busroe (FB), Kathy Caminiti (KC), Hap Chambers (Hap), Dona Coates (DC), Wayne Davis (WD), James W. Hancock (JWH), Logan Kistler (LK), Steve Kistler (SK), Lewis Kornman (LK), Celia Lawrence (CL), Lee McNeely (LMc), Clell Peterson (CP), Frank Renfrow (FR), Art Ricketts (AR), Tina Ricketts (TR), David Roemer (DR), Carroll Tichenor (CT), Doris Tichenor (DT) — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 COMPARISON OF LONG-EARED AND SHORT-EARED OWL WIN¬ TER FOOD HABITS ON A RECLAIMED STRIPMINE IN WESTERN KENTUCKY Angela Machniak1 and Charles Elliott, Department of Biological Sciences Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky 40475 Surface mining for coal is responsible for much wildlife habitat loss, yet mine reclamation efforts have created new habitat with the potential to support a variety of wildlife. Birds which were once documented as rare to uncommon transients or winter residents in Kentucky, specifically Short-eared ( Asio flammeus ) and Long-eared owls (A. otus ), have been reported nesting on reclaimed stripmines in the western part of the state (Ohio and Muhlenberg counties (Monroe et al. 1988, Stamm and Clay 1989, Palmer-Ball 1994). While nesting has been confirmed, information concerning how both species of owl use reclaimed surface mine habitat in the Commonwealth is lacking. Clay ( 1994) reported the food habits of Short-eared Owls on an old (20+ years since reclamation) reclaimed mine site in what is now the Homestead Wildlife Management Area, Ohio County. The purpose of this study was to examine the food habits of Short¬ eared and Long-eared owls on reclaimed surface mines in the same geographical area of western Kentucky and attempt to determine if the owls were functioning as generalist or specialist predators within the reclaimed ecosystem. Earhart and Johnson (1970) established that Short-eared Owls feed 1997 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 59_ mainly on small mammals (particularly species of Microtus , Lemmas , Peromyscus, Mas , Rattus , and Reithrodontomys) and infrequently on birds and insects. In Kentucky only three studies of Short-eared Owl feeding habits have been reported. Fisher (1983) identified meadow mice ( Microtus ochrogaster ) in the stomach of one Short-eared Owl from Union County. Brown (1989) analyzed a Short-eared Owl pellet from Fayette County and found it contained 4% birds and 96 % mammals (percent occurrence). The author described the mammalian re¬ mains as either microtines or “pest rodents” (i.e., families Cricetidae and Muridae), while the bird remains were “blackbirds” (i.e., familes Sturnidae and Icteridae). Clay (1994) collected 124 Short-eared Owl pellets at the Homestead Wildlife Management Area in Ohio County. The pellets contained 41 prairie voles (Micro¬ tus ochrogaster ), 81 meadow voles (M. pennsylvanicus), one Indigo Bunting ( Passerina cyanea) and one Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris)( Clay 1994). Long-eared Owls feed primarily on small mammals, especially Microtus (Earhart and Johnson 1970). Only one study of Long-eared Owl food habits has been conducted in Kentucky. In Madison County, Abel and Ritchison (1995) re¬ ported the pellets of Long-eared Owls contained 1 1 1 prey items. They noted meadow voles comprised 75.5% (N=84) of all prey consumed. Other prey items included prairie voles (17.1%, N=19), harvest mice (Reithrodontomys humulis) (2.7%, N=3), short-tailed shrews (Blarina brevicauda) and one unidentified bird (Abel and Ritchison 1995). STUDY AREAS This study was conducted at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area (PWMA) in Ohio County, and the Kentucky National Guard Training Site (KNGTS) in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. The areas are located between Pond River, and Central City, Kentucky; north of the Western Kentucky Parkway and south of Ken¬ tucky State Highway 70. Short-eared Owl pellets were collected on the PWMA, which was re¬ claimed in 1993 and lies adjacent to an active strip pit. The roosting site of the Short-eared Owls was located within a vegetated depression between two low hills. The roost was adjacent to a small ephemeral pond, which contained fragmitites (Phragmites communis) and cattails (Typha latifolia). Long-eared Owl pellets were collected on the KNGTS which was re¬ claimed in 1978. The Long-eared roosting site was located in a small (0.9 ha) Virginia pine stand bordered by a pond on the south end, a stand of autumn olive to the west, multiflora rose ( Rosa multiflora) dominated the plant community to the east and, to the north, a grassland field consisting mainly of broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), Kentucky 31 fescue (Festuca arundinaceae). and Ko¬ rean Lespedeza ( Lespedeza striata). MATERIALS AND METHODS Owl pellet collection occurred monthly from December 1994 through March 1995 (specifically December 16, January 14, February 11, and March 11). 60 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 73 Pellets were collected from roosting areas and dried in an oven at 148°C for 24 hours. In order to separate hair and feathers from bone fragments, pellets were picked apart by hand. Only skulls and mandibles were used to identify mammal remains, while both skulls and feathers were used for the identification of bird remains. A stereoscopic dissecting microscope was used to identify skull and man¬ dible remains to the species-level using taxonomic keys (Glass 1973, Barbour and Davis 1974) and reference material from the Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) mammal collection. When feathers and avian skeletal remains were encountered in pellets, they were compared to material in the EKU avian collection and identi¬ fied to the lowest taxonomic level possible. Once prey remains were identified, a frequency of occurrence measurement was calculated. The number of animals found in all pellets were summed and divided by the total number of pellets collected. Since there was more than one prey item in a pellet, percentages were greater than 100%. Small mammals were collected at each study site by using Sherman live traps, Victor snap traps, and Museum Special snap traps. Sherman live traps were used at the KNGTS during a pre-study trapping survey which was performed dur¬ ing November 22-26, 1994. The survey was conducted to determine if the Catch- Effort Method (Krebs 1989) could be used to estimate small mammal abundance. In an area in which Long-eared Owls were observed hunting, 100 traps were placed in a square area ten meters apart. Traps were baited with a mixture of rolled oats and peanut butter. Animals captured during the first trapping period were marked by trimming the hair on different legs to denote a different day of capture. All animals caught and marked were considered removed from the population. Analysis of the data collected from the pre-study trapping survey revealed that the assumptions of the Catch-Effort Method [i.e., population is closed, probability of each individual being caught in a trap is constant through¬ out the trapping period, and all individuals have the same probability of being caught (Krebs 1989)] could be met. Therefore, from January 8-14, 1995, Victor and Museum Special snap traps were used to estimate prey abundance on each site. The Short-eared Owl small mammal trap site was located 20 m east of the roost location, while the Long-eared Owl trap site was located 5 m west of the roost (all trap locations were in areas in which the owls had been observed hunting). Traps were placed in the same grid pattern as that described for the pre-study trapping survey. Traps were checked daily and animals captured were identified to species and (if possible) subspecies (according to Burt and Grossenheider 1980). Identified animals were then weighed and standard museum measurements recorded ( i.e ., tail length, hind foot length, ear length, and total length). RESULTS On December 16 nine Short-eared Owls were flushed from a common 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 61 TABLE 1 - Prey species composition from Long-eared and Short-eared Owl pellets found at Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Ohio County and the Kentucky National Guard Training Site, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. Sample dates M.o. P.m.b. S.c. S.l. C.p. M.m. B. unk. Total Pellets* Long-eared Owl 12/15/94 41 2 10 3 0 2 3 2 52 1/14/95 89 0 24 17 7 4 6 1 111 2/11/95 97 0 36 11 1 0 7 3 136 3/11/95 108 12 ^6 _0 I 2 _2 _5 151 Total Short-eared Owl 335 14 106 31 9 8 18 11 450 12/15/94 136 10 2 4 0 0 9 3 124 1/14/95 57 0 1 2 0 2 8 1 56 2/11/95 56 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 48 3/11/95 191 _5 _4 JL 0 1 _4 _3 170 Total 440 15 8 8 0 3 23 9 466 Abbreviations: M.o. = Microtus ochrogaster , P.m.b. = Permoyscus maniculatus bairdii, S.c. = Synaptomys coopen, S.l.= Sorex longirostris , C.p. = Cryptotis par\’a , M.m. = Mus musculus , B. = Birds, and unk. = unknown. * More than one prey item found in pellets. TABLE 2 - Snap trapping data from January 8-14, 1995 at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Ohio County, and Kentucky National Guard Training Site, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. PWMA Total number of animals caueht = 90 Date P. m.b M.o. S.c. M.m. S.l. 9 18 2 0 1 0 10 8 5 1 1 0 11 12 11 2 4 0 12 1 7 3 3 0 13 3 6 1 0 0 J4 1 _0 _0 _0 _0 Total 43 31 7 9 0 KNGTS Total number of animals caught = 79 9 11 6 2 0 0 10 2 6 5 0 3 11 5 12 4 0 1 12 3 8 0 0 0 13 1 5 0 0 0 14 2 _2 _0 _0 _L Total 24 39 11 0 5 Abbreviations: see TABLE 1 . 62 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 TABLE 3. Average standard museum measurements for small mammals snaptrapped January 8-14, 1995 at Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Ohio County and the Kentucky National Guard Training site, Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. PWMA Number Weight (g) Total length (mm) Tail length (mm) Hind foot 1. (mm) Ear length (mm) M. ochrogaster 43 44.4 159.7 38.0 19.0 11.1 P maniculatus bairdii 31 20.5 128.9 43.1 17.7 14.0 S. cooper i 7 31.0 138.0 18.1 18.4 9.8 M. musculus 9 22.2 141.4 78.3 16.8 14.1 S. loneirostris 0 KNGTS M. ochrogaster 24 45.6 166.3 37.6 20.2 12.0 P. maniculatus bairdii 39 22.3 132.1 44.5 18.2 15.7 S. cooperi 11 34.0 143.4 19.9 19.7 10.2 M. musculus 0 S. longirostris 5 3.0 104.6 29.7 12.9 1.3 area from January through March 1995. Four Long-eared Owls were flushed from a common roosting site at KNGTS, and their numbers did not fluctuate from De¬ cember through March 1994-95. The total number of pellets collected for analysis was 916 (450 Long¬ eared Owl pellets and 466 Short-eared Owl pellets). The monthly number of pel¬ lets collected varied due to weather conditions. The prairie vole was the prey item found with the greatest occurrence in both owls' pellets, 48% for Long-eared Owls and 50% for Short-eared Owls (Table 1). Thirteen Long-eared Owl pellets con¬ tained bird remains, of which fragments representing the taxonomic families Fringillidae, Phasianidae, Sturnidae, and Tyranidae were identified. Twenty Short¬ eared Owl pellets contained bird remains, all of which were unknown passerines except for some fragments identified as belonging to the Icteridae family. Total abundance of small mammals in a 10,000 m: area before snap trap¬ ping was estimated to be 133 animals at the PWMA, and 107 animals at KNGTS (CI1(.= + 5.4 1 ). Prairie voles were the most abundant animal trapped at the KNGTS with 49%, while prairie deer mice ( Peromyscus maniculatus bairdii) dominated at the PWMA with 48% (Table 2). Jaccard's coefficient of community similarity (J) indicated the small mammal species composition between sites was fairly similar (J = 0.60). Comparing the sizes of the two most abundant small mammals captured on either study site, prairie voles were significantly (P<0.05) heavier than deer mice (PWMA: t=2.87, KNGTS: t=3.24) and significantly longer (total length) than deer mice (PWMA: t=3.70, KNGTS: t=4. 10) (Table 3). 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER DISCUSSION 63 Small mammals in the genus Microtus exhibit, in general, three types of demographic patterns: annual fluctuations, multi-annual cycles, and both in se¬ quence (Taitt and Krebs 1985). These population cycles are postulated to be the result of density-dependent and density-independent relationships (Ostfeld and Canham 1995). Density-independent factors impacting microtine population cycles have been reported to include weather, food availability, moisture, ground cover and habitat (Krebs and Myers 1974, Taitt and Krebs 1985). Density-dependent factors influencing vole population sizes are thought to include reproduction, sur¬ vival rates and growth rates (Ostfeld and Canham 1995). Because my abundance sampling of the prairie vole populations on KNGTS and the PWMA represented a “point in time” and did not include any measurements of density-dependent or density-independent factors, my data would not have reflected whether a particular site’s population was at a demographic high or low, hence designating either Short-eared or Long-eared owls on my study areas as specialists or generalists is difficult. Short-eared Owls in this study appeared to feed selectively on prairie voles, while Long-eared Owls consumed prairie voles in an opportunistic fashion. However, 1 believe both owl species actually fed selectively on prairie voles. This hypothesis is based on the population dynamics exhibited by prairie voles (as dis¬ cussed above), and the activity pattern and physical size of prairie voles. Voles have peaks of activity which coincide with the peak hunting times of Short-eared Owls, which would make them more susceptible to predation (Clark 1 975). Marks (1984) postulated that Long-eared Owls consume prey in relation to the prey's physical size rather than seeking a particular species of prey. Perhaps the owls employ an optimal foraging strategy (Smith 1990) in which they attempt to maxi¬ mize the amount of energy gained per unit of energy expended: hence enhancing overall fitness. In my study, Long-eared and Short-eared owls consumed those small mammal species (i.e., prairie voles and southern bog lemmings, Synaptomys cooperi) which were not only the most abundant but also the largest (and theoreti¬ cally the most rewarding energy-wise). While this study demonstrates that reclamation practices currently em¬ ployed in western Kentucky can create habitat capable of supporting food chains involving Short-eared and Long-eared owls, it must be emphasized that suitable roost sites were available on each study area. With roost sites that provided protec¬ tion from inclement winter weather and protection from the wind chill generated by strong winds, both species of owl could use the food sources available and apparently maintain a positive energy balance. Without the on-site presence or near proximity of roosting habitat, it is doubtful the owls would have been present on the reclaimed areas. Future surface mine reclamation practices in western Ken¬ tucky should include the preservation or establishment of interspersed tracts of forest juxtaposed with reclaimed areas in order to benefit Short-eared and Long¬ eared owls. 64 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER LITERATURE CITED Vol. 73 Abel, V.J. and G. Ritchison. 1995. Prey use by Long-eared and Eastern Screec- owls in central Kentucky. Kentucky > Warbler 71: 72-75. Barbour, R.W. and W.H. Davis. 1974. Mammals of Kentucky. University Press of Kentucky, Lexington, KY. 322pp. Brown, R.K. 1989. Food habits of Kentucky owls. Kentucky Warbler 65:38-48. Burt, W.H. and R.P. Grossenheider. 1980. A field guide to the mammals of North America north of Mexico. Houghton Mifflin Co., New York, NY. 289 pp. Clark, R.J. 1975. A field study of the Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus (Pontoppidan), in North America. Wildlife Monographs 47: 1-67. Clay, K. 1994. A study of Short-eared Owl pellets in Ohio county. Kentucky’ Warbler 70:44. Earhart, C.M. and N.K. Johnson. 1970. Size dimorphism and food habits of North American owls. Condor 72:25 1-264. Fisher, A.K. 1 893. The hawks and owls of the United States. USDA Bulletin Num ber 3, Washington, D.C. 220pp. Glass, B.P 1973. A Key to the Skulls of North American Mammals, 2nd ed., Okla homa State University, Stillwater. 54pp. Krebs, C.J. 1989. Ecological methodology. Harper Collins Publications, New York, New York. 654pp. _ and J.H. Myers. 1974. Population cycles in small mammals. Advances in Ecological Research 8:267-399. Marks, J.S. 1 984. Feeding ecology of breeding Long-eared Owls in southwestern Idaho. Canadian Journal of Zoology 62: 1528-1533. Monroe, B.L. Jr., A.L. Stamm and B.L. Palmer-Ball. 1988. Annotated checklist of the birds of Kentucky. The Kentucky Ornithological Society 244 pp. OstSeld, R.S. and C.D.Canham. 1995. Density-dependent processes in meadow voles: an experimental approach. Ecology 76:521-532. Palmer-Ball, B. Jr. 1994. First reported nesting of Long-eared Owls in Kentucky. Kentucky’ Warbler 70:42-43. 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 65 Smith, R.L. 1990. Ecology and Field Biology, 4th edition. Harper Collins, New York, NY. 922pp. Stamm, A.L. and K.W. Clay. 1989. First breeding record of the Short-eared Owl in Kentucky. Kentucky Warbler 65:75-76. Taitt, M.J., and C.J. Krebs. 1985. Population dynamics and cycles. Pages 567-620 in R. H. Tamarin (ed.) Biology of New World Microtus. American Soci ety of Mammalogists Special Publication No. 8. 1997 KENTUCKY MIDWINTER EAGLE SURVEY Laura Burford and Jim Durell The 1997 Midwinter Eagle Survey (MES) marked the twentieth year Ken¬ tucky has been monitoring eagle populations as part of nationwide survey efforts. As in past years, Kentucky’s highest concentrations of wintering eagles occurred at TVA’s Land Between the Lakes, Dale Hollow Lake and the Mississippi River. Since the early 1970’s Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocepalus) populations have been increasing with the banning of the pesticide DDT and widespread restoration efforts. As a result, additional survey routes have been added. Thirty nine differ¬ ent routes are currently surveyed in the state for wintering eagles. The survey window for the 1997 National MES was January 1 through 15, with target dates set for January 10 and 11. Due to inclement weather in many parts of the state, ice on the roads prevented some ground surveys. Other routes were not censused due to insufficient funds and observer illness. Weather during the survey period was highly variable. Cool temperatures during the early part of the month caused ice cover to occur on inland sloughs (sometimes as high as 15- 20%), but the Mississippi and Ohio rivers remained clear. Daytime temperatures varied from 8 degrees to 69 degrees during the survey period, with precipitation ranging from flurries to rain. Eagles were undoubtedly on the move during the survey period, as were waterfowl. Waterfowl concentrations were highest after the survey period had ended. With double counting taken into consideration, final tabulation indicated 271 Bald Eagles in the state, 194 (71.3%) adults and 74 (27.2%) immature, while 3 (0.01%) were not identified to age. There were no Golden Eagles (Aquila chry’saetos) reported during the census period. Four eagles were not identifiable to species or age class, but were included in the total for a final count of 275 eagles. Both the total number of eagles and the age distribution are comparable to values for the past three years, suggesting a relatively stable wintering population. Table 1 summarizes the total number of eagles recorded for each route (with all observers, excluding double counts) by age class. Routes where no eagles were counted, or where eagles were counted outside the survey period are not included. Other routes run where no eagles were reported were: Barren River, Buckhorn Lake, Carr Fork Lake, Dewey Lake, Fishtrap Lake, Fox Creek, Herrington Lake, 66 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Kentucky River, Bluegrass Army Depot, Martin’s Fork Lake, Ohio River: Louisville to Covington, Ohio River: Covington to Ashland, Paintsville Lake, Rough River Lake and Yatesville Lake. TABLE 1. Kentucky Midwinter Eagle Census Summary, 1997. Totals by route represent the number of birds recorded during January 1 to 15 survey period only, with adjustments made for double counts. Only routes where birds were recorded are listed. ROUTE BALD EAGLES Grand 1996 Earlier Record Ad Im Unk Total Total Total High Year Ballard WMA 5 12 17 17 18 56 1990 Bernheim Forest 1 1 1 2 9 1993 Cave Run Lake 3 1 4 4 3 10 1989 Dale Hollow Lake (KY portion) 16 3 3 22 22 13 38 1989 Grayson Lake 2 1 3 3 0 4 1993 Green River Area 3 3 3 0 4 1992 Green River Lake 5 3 8 11* 3 13 1994 LBL (KY Portion) 93 29 122 1 22 98 154 1994 Lake Cumberland 11 4 15 15 33 33 1996 Mississippi River 29 3 32 32 40 72 1984 Nolin River Lake 1* 0 3 1990 Ohio:Wickliffe to Carrsville 18 12 30 30 17 89 1986 Ohio: Henderson to Brandenburg 1 1 1 1 4 1994 Ohio: Brandenburg to Louisville 4 2 6 6 4 5 1986 Reelfoot Lake NWR 4 2 6 6 4 21 1989 Taylorsville Lake 1 1 1 2 2 1996 TOTAL 1997 1 194 74 3 271 275 258# *Green River Lake reported three eagles and Nolin River Lake reported one eagle, all of which could not be identified to species or age class. # The total for 1996 includes some routes not reported here. Little information was returned regarding the sightings of other raptors. This census was undertaken by 1 14 participants representing Bernheim Forest, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Kentucky Ornithological Society, Kentucky State Parks, Kentucky State Police, Murray State University, National Park Service, Somerset Bird Club, Tennessee Ornithological Society, Tennessee Valley Authority (Land Between the Lakes), U.S. Department of the Army, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service and 67 1997 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, as well as several private citizens.— Department of Fish and Wildlife, 1 Game Farm Road, Frankfort, KY 40601 and 308 Meadow Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601. FIELD NOTE Winter Wren at Big Black Mountain On 9 July 1996, while conducting a bird survey on Big Black Mountain, Harlan County, Kentucky, I observed a Winter Wren ( Troglodytes troglodytes). The sur¬ vey transect was located near an area of Big Black Mountain known as The Doubles at an elevation between 3800 and 3880 ft. At approximately 1300 h, I encountered a small wren moving about the roots of a tree which had been exposed as a result of road construction. The wren was about 8-9 cm in length, had a short upturned tail, slightly decurved bill, a faint superciliary line, a barred belly and an overall dark color. The wren was also singing and giving call notes. Confirmation of the wren’s identity was made pos¬ sible because: 1) I am from Michigan’s Upper Penninsula and have had many encounters with the species and its vocalizations, and 2) I was able to compare this individual’s songs and calls with those on a compact disc (Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology 1990) which I had with me. The bird was also bobbing its head regu¬ larly, a behavior common with the species. I observed the bird for about twelve minutes. I made three visits to the same area over the next day and a half and was unable to relocate the bird. The Winter Wren has been previously documented twice in Kentucky during summer months (Monroe et al. 1988- Annotated Checklist of Birds of Kentucky, Monroe 1994, The Birds of Kentucky). One record is of a juvenile collected in 1939 by Barbour (1941 -Kentucky Warbler 1 7:46-47) on Big Black Mountain. The other record is of a juvenile seen by E. Clark in 1961 near Whitesburg, Letcher County. Mengel (1965- The Birds of Kentucky) stated that there may be a possi¬ bility of breeding Winter Wrens on Black Mountain. Summer populations, appar¬ ently, have been supported on High Knob, Wise County, Virginia, at similar eleva¬ tions (Murray 1952). High Knob is located 15 miles from Big Black Mountain. Mengel (1965-The Birds of Kentucky) noted however, that High Knob has a veg¬ etative structure composed of hemlock ( Tsuga canadensis) and other conifers, dif¬ ferent than Big Black Mountain, which may prevent them from being a more com¬ mon species in the area. — THOMAS E. OLIVER, Biology Department, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky 40475. NEWS AND VIEWS North American Migration Counts This past spring, eight Kentucky counties were included in the North American Migration Counts, held throughout the United States on May 10. Con¬ duct of these counts is synchronized to help gain a snapshot of migration on a given day across the continent. Results were received from the following counties: Ballard, Boone, Campbell, Daviess, Fayette, Hart, Jefferson and Nicholas. Six 68 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 73 recorded over 100 species led by Boone County with 139, Jefferson County with 132 and Fayette County with 120. The date for the 1997 fall North American Migration Count is September 20. Anyone interested in participating should contact Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005 (Phone: 606-586-7520). Counts must be held on the above date in a specific county. New counts are encouraged, even if participation is limited. Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at 502-894- 9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money (i.e., up to $500) to assist them in conducting re¬ search on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: Ferrebr@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form. Kentucky Bird Records Committee Rare bird sightings and birds observed out of season should be well docu¬ mented and the documentation should be sent to Lee McNeely, Secretary of the KBRC (P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005) for consideration by the com¬ mittee for official state record status. K.O.S. Fall Meeting The fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will meet October 3 through 5 at Pine Mountain State Park. Please make plans to attend. The meeting will feature a hawk watch at the Cumberland Gap as part of the Saturday morning field trips. If you plan on presenting information at the Friday evening meeting, please contact Wendell Kingsolver, Shepherd Hill, Carlisle, Kentucky. K.O.S. Field Trips Mammoth Cave National Park - September 27 at 7:00 a.m. at noon at Mammoth Cave for fall migrants. Meet at the visitor’s center of Mammoth Cave National Park at 7:00 a.m. CDT. The leader is Steve Kistler (502-524-1095). Sloughs Wildlife Management Area- Sunday, October 12 at the Sloughs Wild¬ life Management Area, Henderson County for water birds and fall migrants. Meet at the Holiday Inn off 1-65 in Clarksville, Indiana at 7:00 a.m. EDT for carpooling or meet at McDonald’s in Henderson at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Bring a lunch and shoes for wading. The leader is Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (502-426-8549). ■f p? ; VOL. 73 F7 Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) NOVEMBER 1997 NO. 4 IN THIS ISSUE THE SUMMER SEASON, 1997, Fred Busroe . 71 THE K.O.S. FALL MEETING, 1997 . 75 THE K.O.S TREASURER’S REPORT, Lee McNeely . 78 WOODBURN LAKES- 1997 SEASON, David Roemer, Jackie and Diane Elmore, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Mark Bennett, Gilbert Foster, and Lester Doyle . 79 FIELD NOTE . 83 NEWS AND VIEWS . 84 70 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 73 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green Vice-President . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Corr. Secretary . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 Treasurer . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 Recording Secretary . Neil Eklund, Danville Councillors: Mark Bennett, Russellville . 1996-1998 Steve Kistler, Munfordville . 1996-1998 Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden . 1997-1999 Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough . 1997-1999 Retiring President . Herbert Clay, Jr., Falls of Rough 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell. Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green. 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W.) Stamm Secretary. Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER The K.O.S. thanks its staff artist, Ray Harm, for this excellent painting of a Golden Eagle ( Aquila chrysaetos) 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 71 THE SUMMER SEASON, 1997 Fred M Busroe The months of June and July had near normal temperatures. Precipitation rap¬ idly declined during the period. Heavy rain during the spring allowed some wet¬ lands to retain water longer than usual and some interesting breeding results were recorded. Two half-grown Pied-billed Grebes were seen at Chaney Lake in Warren County and three at Morgan’s Pond Christian County along with young Blue¬ winged Teal. Visits to Big Black Mountain in Harlan County produced several interesting thrush and warbler observations. Five Bell’s Vireos were observed at Peabody Wildlife Management Area in June. Abbreviations: AJJ = A.J. Jolly Park, Campbell County; Bar = Barren County; BBMt = Big Black Mountain, Harlan County; BCNP = Boone County Cliffs Na¬ ture Preserve: BWP = Boone Woods Park, Boone County; Cal = Calloway County: Camp = Campbell County; Cane = Canewood, Clark County; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; Chri = Christian County; Cro = Crockett Pond, Logan County; EBP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; Fre = Frederick’s Landing, Campbell County; FtT = Fort Thomas, Campbell County; Ful = Fulton County; GCA = Greater Cincinnati Airport, Boone County; Gun = Gunpowder Creek, Boone County; Hart = Hart County; Hie = Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County; Hop = Hopkins County; Ken = Kenton County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park, Edmonson County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; Mid = Middle Creek Park, Boone County; Mor = Morgan’s Pond Chris¬ tian County; PWMA = Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Ohio County; Pet = Petersburg, Boone County; RBA = Raymond B. Athey Nature Preserve, Logan County; Red = Red River Gorge, Powell and Wolfe counties; Row = Rowan County; Sil = Silver Grove, Campbell County; Slo = Sloughs WMA, Henderson County; Sny = Snyder Airport, Pendleton County; Sug = Sugartree Hollow, Pulaski County; Swa= Swallow Springs, Christian County; Wol = Wolper’s Creek, Boone County; Zoo = Louisville Zoo, Jefferson County. Pied-billed Grebe - Two young on July 13 at Cha and 3 young on July 3 1 at Mor, these appear to be breeding records for the area (DR). Great Blue Heron -One on July 1 1 and 12 in Hart (MS); 1 1 on July 27 and 40 on July 30 at Mor (MB); 3 on July 9 near Mad (JWH). Great Egret - One on July 2 at Cha (DR); 2 at Mor on July 1 1 (MB); one on July 12 at Pet (LMc); one on July 13 and 30 at Mor (MB). Snowy Egret - One on June 5 at Island #8, Slo (MB). Little Blue Heron - One on July 10 at Cha (DR). Yellow-crowned Night-Heron - One immature on July 10 at Cha (DR). Black-crowned Night-Heron - One adult and 3 young in nest with one adult and one immature in trees at Zoo on July 18 (MS). 72 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 73 Wood Duck - 12 on July 27 at Mor (MB ). Mallard - One female with 5 young on July 6 at Swa (MB). Blue-winged Teal - One female and 8 young on July 6 at Mor, 2 females with 14 young on July 6 at Swa and approximately 100 on July 27 at Mor (MB); 22 young birds at Cha on July 13 (DR). Northern Shoveler - One male and 7 juveniles on June 6 at Mor (MB); 2 (male and female) on June 6 at MCFH (FB ). Canvasback - A male spent the season at MCFH (FB). Ring-necked Duck - Two on July 27 at Mor (MB). Common Merganser - One on June 6 at LBL (MB). Black Vulture - Small numbers were noted during the period at EBP, Mid, and Pet (LMc); 3 on July 29 at Mel (FR). Turkey Vulture -20 on July 29 at Mel (FR). Mississippi Kite - Two at Hie on June 6 (MB). Bald Eagle - An immature and a young adult spent the season at MCFH (FB). Sharp-shinned Hawk - One on June 19 and 21 in Hart (MS). Cooper’s Hawk - One on July 24 in Bar (MS). Red-shouldered Hawk - One on June 2 in Hop (JWH); one on July 7 at MCNP (MS). Red-tailed Hawk - One adult and one young at nest on June 2 near FtT (FR). Broad-winged Hawk - Single observations at Wol June 2 and at EBP on June 5 (LMc); one on July 3 at RBA (MB). American Kestrel - Four on July 29 at Fre (FR). Wild Turkey - Two adults and 7 young on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Northern Bobwhite - 25 recorded on seven June trips in Hop (JWH). American Coot - 14 on June 1 1 in Chri (DR); one on July 5 in Trigg County (DR.; one on July 12 at Pet - thought to have summered here (LMc); 4 on July 14 at Cha (DR). American Golden Plover - One on July 28 and 2 on July 31 in Chri (DR). Semipalmated Plover - One on June 4 at Cha and 7 on June 1 1 in Chri (DR). Killdeer - Approximately 200 on July 27 at Mor (MB). American Avocet - One on July 27 at Mor (MB). Lesser Yellowlegs - 23 on July 27 at Mor (MB). Solitary Sandpiper - Six on July 10 at Cha (DR); one on July 20 at Mor (MS). Spotted Sandpiper - Two on July 27 and 30 at Mor (MB). Semipalmated Sandpiper - Seven on June 4 at Cha (DR); 65 on June 1 1 in Chri (DR); 5 on June 17 at Cro, 2 on July 30 at Mor (MB). Least Sandpiper - Three on July 11, 12 on July 17, and 10 on July 30 at Mor with 6 at Swa (MB). White-rumped Sandpiper - One on June 1 at Cro (MB); 2 on June 4, and 5 on June 1 1 at Cha, with 25 on June 1 1 in Chri (DR). Pectoral Sanpiper - Four on July 10 at Cha (DR); 23 on July 27, and approxi mately 50 on July 30 at Mor (MB). 73 1997 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Dunlin - Two on June 1 at Cha (DR). Stilt Sandpiper - One on July 27 at Mor (MB). Short-billed Dowitcher - One on July 27 at Mor (MB). American Woodcock - Two on July 14 at Sil (FR) Common Tern - Seven on June 1 on Ohio River, Dayton, Camp (FR). Black Tern - Three on June 1 1 in Chri (DR). Yellow-billed Cuckoo -13 recorded on seven trips during June in Flop (JWH). Great Horned Owl - One immature on June 2 at Mid (LMc). Barred Owl - Two, one had a snake in its talons, on June 24 at Sug (MB). Chuck-will’s-widow - One and two calling from June 1 to July 6 in Hart (MS). Whip-poor-will - Three on July 10 at AJJ (FR). Ruby-throated Hummingbird -Active nest at Mid on June 6, nest with two eggs on June 7 at Bur (LMc). Acadian Flycatcher - 1 1 on June 2 at Mid (LMc); 5 on July 7 at MCNP and 2 in Metcalfe County on July 14 (MS). Eastern Wood-Pewee - A total of 27 were observed on nine June trips in Hop (JWH). Willow Flycatcher - Small numbers were present in Pet during the period (LMc); 3 in song on June 6 at MCFH (FB); 2 on June 9 in rural Pendleton County (FR).; 4 and a a nest with 2 eggs on June 20 at Pea (MB, BPB, DR). Horned Lark - One on June 2 near Bellview, Boone County (LMc); 3 on levee on June 5 at Kentucky Bend, Ful (MB). Tree Swallow - Seven on June 9 in Hop (JWH); at least three pairs nested at MCFH in June (FB). Bank Swallow - Active during the period at Pet (LMc). Cliff Swallow - Present on June 2 at Gun (LMc); 20 on June 14 at Mel (FR); 10 to 12 on July 14 at nests near Sulphur Wells Bridge in Metcalfe County (MS). Red-breasted Nuthatch - Four on July 12 at Swift’s Creek, Red, but no sign of nesting activity this year (FR). Carolina Wren - 49 seen on nine June trips in Hop (JWH); 2 adults with 2 young on July 29 in Hart (MS). Bewick’s Wren - One vocal on July 3 at RBA (MB). Veery - Six on July 4 and a total of 12 on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Wood Thrush - 1 3 on June 2 at Mid and young out of nest at BCC on June 24 (LMc); only 4 recorded on four June trips in Hop (JWH); 6 on July 7 at MCNP (MS). Cedar Waxwing - Pair building a nest on July 4 at Mid (LMc); as many as 17 during the period in Hart (MS) White-eyed Vireo - Several were present during the period at Pet and Mid (LMc); 12 observed on five June trips in Hop (JWH). Bell’s Vireo - Five vocally on June 20 at Pea (MB, BPB, DR). Warbling Vireo - Two on June 14 at Mel (FR); 4 recorded on four June trips in Hop (JWH). 74 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Solitary Vireo - Three on June 24 at Sug (MB); one adult feeding young on July 5 at BBMt and two on July 12 in RRG (FR). Yellow-throated Vireo - Only 3 recorded on two June trips in Hop (JWH). Red-eyed Vireo - 17 on June 2 at Mid, good numbers at BCC during June and July (LMc). Blue-winged Warbler - Two on June 9 in rural Camp, one on June 21 in Lewis County (FR). Northern Parula - Three observed on two June trips in Hop (JWH); one on July 10 in Boone County (FR). Chestnut-sided Warbler - Eight on July 4 and a total of 25 on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Black-throated Blue Warbler - One on July 4 with 4 present on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Black-throated Green Warbler - One on July 5 at BBMt and 8 on July 12 at Red (FR). Yellow-throated Warbler - Two on July 5 at BBMt and 8 on July 12 at Red (FR). Cerulean Warbler - Seven on June 2 at Mid (LMc); one on June 5 at Kentucky Bend, Ful (MB); one on July 5 at BBMt (FR). American Redstart - Four on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Worm-eating Warbler - One June 5 at Kentucky Bend, Ful (MB); adults were feeding fledglings on June 24 at Mid (LMc); 3 on July 7 at MCNP (MS). Ovenbird - Five on June 2 at Mid and good numbers at BCC (LMc). Prothonotary Warbler - 10 recorded in June in western Hop (JWH). Swainson’s Warbler - One, maybe two, singing on June 4 in Cal (MB); one on July 12 at Red (FR). Louisiana Waterthrush - One on June 2 and on July 4 in Hop (JWH); one on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Kentucky Warbler - Only 6 recorded on six June trips in Hop, timbering has altered habitat in a prime area (JWH); one on June 21 in Lewis County and 2 adults feeding a Brown-headed Cowbird on July 10 in Boone County (FR). Hooded Warbler - Four on June 2 at Mid and present in good numbers at BCC (LMc); 2 on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Blue Grosbeak - One male on June 3 at Grant's Lick, Camp, one on June 9 at Sny, 2 males on June 14 by AA Highway, Camp, and one on June 21 in Bracken County (FR); 6 recorded on four June trips in Hop (JWH). Rose-breasted Grosbeak - A singing male in Row on June 2 (FR); a total of 4 on July 5 on BBMt (FR); a male was present in July 6 at Mid (LMc). Dickcissel - Three on June 2 in Bar, 2 on June 6 and 8 present on July 7. with singles seen in Hart from June 6 to July 31 (MS); 17 recorded on three June trips in Hop (JWH); one heard singing on July 4 near Pet (LMc). THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 1997 75 Grasshopper Sparrow - One to two from June 6 to July 3 1 in Hart (MS); 4 on June 9 at Sny (FR); single observations were noted at GCA and Pet on July 4 (LMc). Henslow’s Sparrow - At least 8 were singing on July 1 in Butler County (DR); 3 on July 20 at Pea (MB, BPB, DR). Dark-eyed Junco - A total of 10, with an adult feeding a fledgling on July 4, while 8 were seen on July 5 at BBMt (FR). Bobolink - Two on July 6 at Cane (FR). Orchard Oriole - Fairly common in northern Kentucky during the period (FR).; 6 on four June trips in Hop (JWH). Baltimore Oriole - One male and 1 female on June 23 in Hart (MS); active nest on July 4 at BWP (LMc); fairly common in Campbell and Kenton counties (FR). Contributors - Mark Bennett (MB), Fred Busroe (FB), James W. Hancock (JWH), Lee McNeely (LMc), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr (BPB), Frank Renfrow (FR), David Roemer (DR), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS). Observations under current review by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee: White-faced Ibis - observed 6 September 1996 in Ohio County. Ross’ Goose - observed 7 March 1997 at Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County. Tufted Duck - observed from 9 April to 15 April 1997 at McElroy Lake, Warren County. Ruff - observed from 17 April to 19 April 1997 in Henderson County. Cinnamon Teal - observed from 19 April to 22 April 1997 at McElroy Lake, Warren County. — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY FALL MEETING, 1997 The Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society was held at Pine Moun¬ tain State Resort Park 3,4, and 5 October. The Friday evening meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. by President Wayne Mason who welcomed the membership and recognized new members. Wayne turned the program over to Vice President Wendell Kingsolver who introduced the program participants. Andy Uterhart talked about a bird banding expedition at Point Reyes, Wayne Davis discussed his blue¬ bird nest box research, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr presented slides for Rosanna Denton documenting wading bird occurrences at Lake Cumberland, Wendell Thompson described their trip to see the Himalayan Snow Cock at Ruby Mountain, Nevada, Brainard showed excellent slides of the Swallow-tailed Kite observed over Boone County, Kentucky, and Wendell Kingsolver concluded the presentations with slides ot various hawks to get the membership in the spirit for visiting the Pinnacle at 76 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Cumberland Gap in the morning. Field trips for Saturday were organized and the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Many members joined the social gathering hosted by the Kingsolvers in their lodge room following the meeting. The Board meeting was held at 3:00 p.m. Wayne Mason began the Saturday evening program by announcing the follow¬ ing slate of officers: Wendell Kingsolver for President, Marilee Thompson for Vice President, Lee McNeely for Treasurer, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. for Correspond¬ ing Secretary, Mark Bennett for Recording Secretary, and David Roemer and Kathryn Clay for Councillors. The slate of officers was unanimously approved by the membership. Next, Wayne introduced the guest speaker, Laura Burford, a wild¬ life biologist with the Non-game Division of the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Ser¬ vice. She gave an excellent presentation of the Fish and Wildife Service’s efforts to reintroduce Peregrine Falcons in Kentucky and concluded her talk by showing a live Peregrine Falcon. Wayne Mason compiled the list of species observed during the Saturday morning field trips following Laura’s presentation. A field trip to the Pinnacle, led by Wendell and Ginny Kingsolver, was organized for Sunday morn¬ ing. The meeting was adjourned. ATTENDANCE AT THE FALL MEETING BOWLING GREEN: Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell, Elizabeth Ferrell, Priscilla Ferrell, Wayne Mason, David Roemer, and Joan Roemer BRONSTON: Margaret York BURLINGTON: Joe Caminiti, Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Lee McNeely, and Lynda McNeely CANEYVILLE: Mary Harre CARLISLE: Ginny Kingsolver and Wendell Kingsolver DANVILLE: JoAnn Hamm and Mike Hamm FALLS OF ROUGH: Doralee St.Clair, Kathryn Clay, and Joyce Porter FRANKFORT: Estin Kimbel GILBERTSVILLE: Rowena Cary LEXINGTON: Shirley Davis, Wayne Davis, Andy Uterhart, Gerry Williams, and Jim Williams LOUISVILLE: Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Boh Brown, Richard Cassell, Judi Jones, Darrin O’Brien, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Esther Tamplin, and Phil Tamplin 77 1997 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe and Brian Reeder MORGANTOWN: Carroll Tichenor and Doris Tichenor MUNFORDVILLE: Logan Kistler and Steve Kistler OWENSBORO: Marilee Thompson, Wendell Thompson, and Bill Tyler PADUCAH: B ernice Cadell PROSPECT: Fred T. Mansmith RUSSELLVILLE: Andrea Bennett and Mark Bennett SCIENCE HILL: Roseanne Denton SOMERSET: Linda McClendon UNION: Karen Stephens and Tom Stephens BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE FALL MEETING 1997 Birds observed at the Fall Meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society at Pine Mountain State Resort Park October 5 were as follows: Great Blue Heron, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Red¬ tailed Hawk, Wild Turkey, Killdeer, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Eastern Screech- Owl, Great Horned Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe, Blue Jay. American Crow, Common Raven, Caro¬ lina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Winter Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Eastern Bluebird, Gray¬ cheeked Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Cat¬ bird, Northern Mockingbird, Cedar Waxwing, European Starling. Solitary Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Northern Parula, 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, Blackpoll Warbler, American Redstart, Flooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Eastern Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and American Goldfinch for a total of 74 spe¬ cies. Species observed during Sunday field trips were Ruffed Grouse, Barred Owl, Indigo Bunting, Common Grackle, and House Sparrow which brought the week¬ end total to 79 species. 78 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 73 KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY TREASURER’S REPORT September 6, 1996 - September 29, 1997 Beginning Balance Receipts Membership Dues $ 3,410.00 Life Memberships 600.00 Gordon Wilson Fund 33.00 Sale of Annotated Checklists 72.48 Sale of Warbler back issues 6.00 Sale of Field Checklists 104.61 Fall Meeting Registration 126.00 Spring Meeting Registration 106.00 $ 4,458.09 Disbursements United Graphics (5 Warblers) $ 4,907.66 United Graphics (Checklists) 313.60 United Graphics (Envelopes) 184.00 Postage 285.00 Bell South 214.13 Ky. State Treasurer (Sales tax) 33.52 Great Impressions (Bank stamp) 13.50 Kay Mudd (Misc. Reimbursement) 178.60 Pat Bell (Phone tapes) 8.47 Anne Stamm (Reimbursement) 10.38 Michael Hamm (Life member refund) 100.00 $ 6,248.86 $ 2,735.64 $ 4,458.09 $ 7,193.73 $ 6,248.86 Ending Balance September 29, 1997 $944.87 1997 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 79 KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION September 29, 1997 National City Bank Checking $ 944.87 National City Bank Burt Monroe Fund 1.806.75 Republic Bank Gordon Wilson Fund 3,847.80 CD matures 5/28/98 Great Financial Bank Gordon Wilson Fund 6,317.49 Great Financial Bank Endowment 3,124.98 CD matures 11/2/99 Heritage Bank Endowment 3,200.20 CD matures 12/19/97 Heritage Bank Endowment 4,982.13 CD matures 12/19/97 $ 24,224.22 THE WOODBURN LAKES - 1997 SEASON David Roemer, Jackie and Diane Elmore, Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr., Mark Bennett, Gilbert Foster, and Lester Doyle The 1997 season was the best ever documented for the transient lakes near Woodburn, in Warren County, based on the number of waterbird species observed (78), eclipsing the 1989 total of 70 species (Palmer-Ball and Boggs, Ky Warbler 67:33-45,60-66, 1991). While the season was considerably shorter than in 1989, the lakes received much greater attention from birders in 1997, which is likely the main reason the number of species was so high. Reported herein is a summary of water conditions and waterbird observations made during the winter 1996-97 and spring-early summer 1997 by the authors. There were doubtless a few observa¬ tions of record made by other individuals, but we have compiled those made by ourselves, which, as far as we are aware, account for all significant records made during the period. The 1997 season actually began late in 1996. Rainfall during the first week of December was adequate to begin filling the lakes. Ducks began to accumulate by the third week of December, but numbers varied greatly due to hunting. On 14 January McElroy Lake was frozen except for the south end and the ditch area, and at least 1000 waterfowl were present. By the week of 19 January, approximately 2000 individuals of 15 species were present. The waters began to recede in Febru¬ ary, but an early March deluge of 7+ inches of rain caused a rise in the lakes to relatively high levels. Waterfowl diversity peaked in mid- to late March, with 21 species observed at the lakes on 22 March, and a few early migrant shorebirds 80 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 73 appeared during the last week of the month. Substantial precipitation continued through early April, which resulted in slowly rising levels that peaked about 1-2 feet below the highest levels ever recorded in 1950 (Wilson, Ky Warbler 27 :1 -6, 1951). During early April McElroy Lake probably covered about 350-400 acres, while Chaney Lake was more than 200 acres in size. As is typically the case at the transient lakes, a good variety of swallows was present throughout spring migration. Highest numbers were observed during April, and an impressive count of approximately 3,000 Tree Swallows on 1 3 April likely was the most noteworthy count made during the season. Precipitation dropped off dramatically during April, and only a few substantial rain events in mid-May helped slow the receding lake levels. Shorebird numbers were slow to build, but large numbers arrived during late April. The season's peak count of 16 species of shore- birds was tallied at the lakes on 29 April. McElroy Lake dropped quickly through mid-May, but the improving shorebird habitat resulted in larger numbers, and shore- birds peaked at nearly 2000 individuals (of 15 species) on 20 May. McElroy Lake dried up by the end of May, while Chaney Lake lasted into the middle of July. Dropping water levels occurred earlier in the season than in 1989, so fewer birds (especially waterfowl) lingered and nested. However, Pied-billed Grebes, Blue-winged Teal, and Hooded Mergansers were confirmed breeding at Chaney Lake, along with Canada Geese, Wood Ducks, and Mallards. There were many noteworthy observations made during the 1997 season. The Tufted Duck was a first state record, and the Cinnamon Teal a seventh (and second for south-central Kentucky). The number of Eared Grebes observed (at least six individuals) and the duration of observations (nearly two months) was remark¬ able. Ross' Geese and Greater White-fronted Geese now seem to be annual in occurrence in south-central Kentucky; both species were reported two separate times at the lakes during the season. Northern Shovelers have increased in occur¬ rence in Kentucky in winter over the past twenty years, and at least a few were present throughout the 1996-97 winter season at McElroy Lake. The spring shore- bird flight did not turn up any especially rare species, the most unusual being American Avocet and Willet. However, the season was unique in terms of the numbers of shorebirds seen. In fact, the largest numbers of several species ever reported for the state in spring were observed, including Semipalmated Plover (250+), Ruddy Turnstone (20), White-rumped Sandpiper (100+). Baird's Sand¬ piper (5), Western Sandpiper (17), Dunlin ( 150+), Stilt Sandpiper (55) and Wilson's Phalarope ( 1 8). In addition, the peak counts for Semipalmated Plover, Ruddy Turn¬ stone, Dunlin, and Wilson's Phalarope represented the highest counts ever reported from the state at any season. Poliowing in tabular form is a summary of the waterbirds reported by the authors during the 1997 season. Birds included herein were observed primarily at the two largest transient lakes, McElroy (MC) and Chaney (CH) lakes. In fact, most were compiled at McElroy Lake, and unless otherwise noted, dates and 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 81 peak numbers pertain to that location. Other bodies of water included in this summary include "Walton's Pond" (WP) along Highway 242 west of Woodburn and numerous small ponds along Meng Road (MR), southeast of McElroy Lake. Species Early date Late date Peak date Peak count Comments Common Loon 3-25 5-08 4-19 14 Pied-billed Grebe 1-20 7-13 CH 4-25 15 CH bred at CH Horned Grebe 2-14 5-07 3-15 25+ Eared Grebe 3-18 5-08 4-08 5 Dbl-cr. Cormorant 3-29 5-03 4-22 35 American Bittern 5-03 CH 5-03 5-03 1 Great Blue Heron 3-28 WP 7-14 CH 5-24 7 Little Blue Heron 7-10 CH 7-10 7-10 1 adult Great Egret 3-28 WP 7-10 CH 4-25 3 WP Cattle Egret 5-17 5-17 5-17 5 Green Heron 4-23 CH 7-14 CH 7-14 10 CH Bl.-cr. Night-Heron 4-06 MR 5-07 5-07 2 Yel.-cr.Night-Heron 7-10CH 7-11 CH same 1 immature Tundra Swan 3-17 3-17 3-17 1 adult Gr. White-frtd Goose 1-02 3-09 1-02 5 Snow Goose 1-02 4-16 1-24 40 Ross’ Goose 2-03 3-24 2-03/08 4 MC/WP CanadaGoose 1-08 6-05 CH 2-08 225+ bred at CH Wood Duck 2-08 7-14 CH 3-15 6+ CH bred at CH Green-winged Teal 12-21 5-08 3-15 30 Amer. Black Duck 1 -02 3-22 2-08 10+ Mallard 12-21 7-14 CH 1-20 2000 bred MC/CH Northern Pintail 1-02 3-22 2-08 20+ Blue-winged Teal 2- 14 7- 14 CH 4- 10 400 bred at CH Cinnamon Teal 4-19 4-22 same 1 male Northern Shoveler 1-05 6-05 3-15/29 100 CH Gadwall 1-02 5-20 3-09 25 American Wigeon 12-21 5-07 4-15 50 Canvasback 1 - 18 3 -29 3-22 10 Redhead 12-21 4-20 3- 15 1 10 WP Tufted Duck 4-05 MR 4-15 same 1 male Ring-necked Duck 1-03 7-14 CH 3-09 150 WP GreaterScaup 1-24 3-22 3-22 6-8+ Lesser Scaup 1-03 7-14 CH 3-09 200 Common Goldeneye 12-25 4-25 CH 12-25 9 Bufflehead 1-20 5-07 3-22 25+ Hooded Merganser 2-22 7-10 CH 4-10 16 CH bred at CH Common Merganser 2-08 2-08 2-08 1 male 82 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 73 Species Early date Late date Peak date Peak count Comments R.-br. Merganser 3-22 4-25 4-20 75 Ruddy Duck 2-07 5-27 4-16 130 Vrginia Rail 4-27 CH 4-27 4-27 1 Sora 4-13 5-03 4-27 6 CH Common Moorhen 4-10 CH 5-20 CH 5-20 2 CH American Coot 2-08 7-14 CH 4-10/20 5-10.000 Sandhill Crane 12-05 4-02 2-14 40+ Black-bellied Plover 4-22 5-26 5-14 31 Amer. Golden-Plover 3-31 5-20 4- 19 8 CH Semipalmated Plover 4- 14 6-04 CH 5-20 250+ Killdeer 1-20 6-05 CH 5-20 50+ American Avocet 4- 13 4- 13 4- 13 1 Greater Yellowlegs 3-01 5-24 4-03 8 Lesser Yellowlegs 3-15 5-23 4-25 1 50 CH Solitary Sandpiper 3-25 5-07* 4-26 15 CH Wdlet 4-26 4-26 4-26 1 Spotted Sandpiper 4-14 6-04 CH 5-20 25+ Upland Sandpiper 4-14 CH 4-22 4-14/22 1 Ruddy Turnstone 5-17 5-26 5-17 20 Sandcrling 5-20 5-21 5-20/2 1 1 Semipalm. Sandpiper 4-29 6-05 5-23 1 500+ Western Sandpiper 4-24 5-01 4-27 17 Least Sandpiper 3-25 5-26* 5-07 75+ Wh.-rmpdSandpiper 4-27 6-11 CH 5-20 100+ Baird's Sandpiper 4-30 5-05 5-01 5 Pectoral Sandpiper 3-22 5-27* 4-26/5-07 150MC/CH Dunlin 4-06 6-01 5-14 150+ Stilt Sandpiper 4-30 5-26 5-20 55 Sh. -billed Dowitcher 4-09 CH 5-21 5-14 50 Lg-billed Dowitcher 4-09 CH 5-05 5-01 12 Common Snipe 1 - 11 4-26 1-11 23 Wilson's Phalarope 4-26 5-23 5-04 18 Laughing Gull 4-11 4-11 4-11 1 adult Franklin's Gull 5-01 5-01 5-01 3 adults Bonaparte’s Gull 4-03 5-01 4-03 28 Ring-billed Gull 1 2-05 5-05 1-20 150+ Herring Gull 4-30 5-20 5-20 A Caspian Tern 4-22 4-22 4-22 5 Forster's Tern 5-23 5-23 5-23 21 Black Tern 5-07 5-27 5-25 50 1997 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 83 Species Early date Late date Peak date Peak count Comments Others species Osprey 4-26 5-24 sev dates 1 MC/CH Bald Eagle 4-19 4-19 4-19 1 sub-ad Peregrine Falcon 4-26 5-24 sev dates 1 American Pipit 12-05 5-08 4-08 200 CH Lapland Longspur 12-15 3-27 1-24 7 Brewer's Blackbird 2-22 4-26 3-25 300+ MR area * = a few early fall migrant shorebirds were observed at Chaney Lake during early July; including Least Sandpipers 10/13/14 July, Solitary Sandpipers on 10 July, and Pectoral Sandpipers on 10 July. — 294 Drakes Creek Drive, Bowling Green, 42103 (Roemer), 140 Crockett Drive, Bowling Green, 42101 (Elmores), 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, 40222 (Palmer-Ball), 259 West Valley Road, Russellville, 42276 (Bennett), 6600 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN, 37205 (Foster), and 1115 High St., Bowling Green, 42101 FIELD NOTE Overwintering Chipping Sparrows in Warren County Chipping Sparrows ( Spizella passerina) were present throughout the winter of 1996-1997 in Warren county. These birds were observed feeding in my yard and adjacent fields, often in the company of Field Sparrows. Numbers seen were usually less than a dozen birds. During extremely cold weather however, higher numbers were present with as many as 26 counted on 20 January, 21 on 12 January, 15 on 14 January, 19 on 15 January, and 20 on 13 February. Chipping Sparrows were absent or seen in lower numbers during mild weather, apparently finding adequate forage in the cow pastures in the area. As many as 20 Chipping Sparrows and several Field Sparrows were seen on 13 February riding broomsedge heads to the ground to feed on the seeds. These birds seem to prefer relatively short vegetation, as in mowed fescue or grazed cow pastures, and were not present in grown up fence rows or weedy fields with the numerous White- throated and White-crowned Sparrows. Chipping Sparrows were present in the same area throughout the previous winter, although dates and numbers were not recorded. —DAVID T. ROEMER 294 Drakes Creek Dr. Bowling Green 42103. 84 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER NEWS AND VIEWS Vol. 73 Kentucky Audubon Council Awards Several of our K.O.S. members were winners in the first annual Kentucky Audubon Council (KAC) Bird Habitat Conservation competition. There were three award categories: 1) backyard habitat, 2 acres or less, 2) farms and landholdings larger than 2 acres and 3) ecosystem level conservation Backyard First Prize: Hack and Carolyn Williamson, Varney 1st Honorable Mention: W. Horace Brown, Shelby ville 2nd Honorable Mention: Nelia and Bob Roush, Elizabethtown 3rd Honorable Mention: Diane and Roger Shott, Anchorage 4th Honorable Mention: Joyce L. Porter, Falls of Rough Farm First Prize: Karen and Donna Thompson, Owenton 1st Honorable Mention: Tamara L. Sanderson, Lexington and Highland Cem etery. Ft. Mitchell 2nd Honorable Mention: Mrs. Herbert Clay, Falls of Rough Ecosystem First Prize: Wendell and Ginny Kingsolver, Carlisle The awards were presented on 1 November 1997 at the fall meeting of the Kentucky Audubon Council held at the Louisville Nature Center. KAC plans to make this an annual event. If you didn’t win first prize this year, you are invited to enter again next year. - Joyce L. Porter, P.O. Box 176, Falls of Rough, Kentucky 40119. K.O.S. Field Trips 16-19 January: Eastern seashore field trip to Virginia, Delaware, Maryland. A pelagic trip can be a part of this trip. Call Jim Williams for details: (606)-269-3915. 24-25 January: The Nature Center in Cincinnati and surrounding area. A good birder will serve as a guide. Contact Marilee Thompson (502)-281-5619 for more information. 8 February: Ohio County Strip Mines for waterfowl, hawks, and owls. Meet at the MimMart, Exit 75 off Western Kentucky Parkway (Beaver Dam) at 9:00 a. m. EST. Bring lunch and lawn chairs. Leader: Kathryn Clay (502)-879-8345. K.O.S. Spring Meeting The K.O.S. Spring meeting is scheduled for 24-26 April at General Butler State Park. Please mark your calendars and plan on attending and participating in the Friday evening program. In Memoriam: Mabel Slack K.O.S. member Mabel Slack died at the age of 98, Monday September 15 at Wesminster Terrace. She was a native of Union County and a retired teacher at Atherton High School.. Mabel will be missed by the K.O.S. and our sympa¬ thies are extended to the family. Corrigendum: In The Ky Warbler 74:76, the author of the field note on Barn Owls on Little Black Mountain in Harlan County should be Michael J. Lacki. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) Vol.74 _ FEBRUARY 1998 _ No. 1 IN THIS ISSUE FALL MIGRATION, 1997, Fred Busroe . 3 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT, Blaine Ferrell . 12 FIELD NOTES . 22 SIXTH REPORT OF THE KENTUCKY BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE Lee K. McNeely, Secretary . 26 NEWS AND VIEWS . 28 9 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 74 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corn Secretary . Treasurer . Recording Secretary . Councillors: Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden . Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough .... David Roemer, Bowling Green Kathryn Clay, Louisville . Retiring President . . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Marilee Thompson, Owensboro . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Mark Bennett, Russellville, KY . 1997-1999 . 1997-1999 . 1998-2000 . 1998-2000 . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell. Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W.) Stamm Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER The K.O.S. thanks Frank Renfrow for providing the excellent photograph of the American Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus, see Field Notes) sighted m Boone County, Kentucky. 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 3 FALL MIGRATION 1 August - 30 November Fred M. Busroe Warm dry weather of the early season delayed the migratory movement — peak movement occurred in early October. November was somewhat wet and cold. During November there was a succession of weather fronts that moved through and brought many water birds to central parts of the state which included nearly 1000 Common Loons at Barren River Lake. Without question the highlights of the season were the Swallow-tailed Kite in Boone County, the Iceland Gull at Meldahl Dam. Bracken County, and the Black-legged Kittiwake at Markland Dam, Gallatin County, along with very large numbers of other gulls. The warbler movement was good but prolonged warm weather probably spread the movement out. Most species were seen during the period. Abbreviations: Ball = Ballard County; Bar = Barren Reservoir, Barren County; BBL = Big Bone Lick State Park, Boone County; Bel = Bellevue, Campbell County; Bern = Bernheim Forest, Bullitt County; Blu = Blue Heron Trail, Big South Fork NRRA, McCreary County; BNP = Beargrass Nature Preserve, Jefferson County; BPS = Big Pond Sanctuary, Grayson County; Btl = Butler County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; Cra = Craig’s Creek, Boone County; EBP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; Falls = Falls of Ohio, Jefferson County; Fre = Freeman Lake, Hardin County; Ghe = Ghent Power Plant, Carroll County; GR = Green River Reservoir, Taylor County; Hart = Hart County; Hie = Hickman, Fulton County; Hul = Huling Branch Trail, Big South Fork NRRA, McCreary County ; JCP = Joe Creason Park. Jefferson County ; Jon = Jonathan Creek, Marshall County; KY = Kentucky Dam, Marshall County; Lak = Laketon Sandbars, Carlisle County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes; LBar = Lake Barkley, Lyon County; Lau = Laurel River Lake, Laurel County; Lin = Lake Linville, Rockcastle County; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; Mark = Markland Dam, Gallatin County; Mars = Marshall County; MCNP = Mammoth Cave National Park, Edmonson County; McEl = McElroy Lake, Warren County; MC = Middle Creek Park, Boone County; MCFH = Minor Clark Hatchery, Rowan County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; Miss = Mississippi River, Wickliff, Ballard County; Mor = Morgan’s Pond, Christian County; Mos = Mosley’s Pond, Hardin County; OFL = Owsley Fork Lake, Madison County; Pea = Peabody WMA. Ohio County; Pet = Petersburg, Boone County; Phil = Philpot, Daviess County; Pine = Pine Mt. State Park, Bell County; RH = Rabbit Hash, Boone County; SC = Short Creek, Grayson County; Saw = E.P. Sawyer Park, Jefferson County; Sha = Shanty Hollow Lake, Warren County; Slo = Sloughs WMA, Henderson County; Smi = Smithland Dam, 4 _ _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 Livingston County; War = Warsaw, Gallatin County; Wild = Wilder, Campbell County; Yah = Yahoo Arch Trail, Big South Fork NRRA, McCreary County. RED-THROATED LOON - 1 imm. from November 13 to 17 at Bar (DR); 1 on November 15 at GR (MB); 1 imm. on November 22 at Mel (BPB, FR). Common Loon - One on Ohio River, RH from November 1 to 8 (LMc); one on November 4 at KY (MB); approx. 325 on November 8 at Mel (NK, JS); approx. 1000 from November 1 1 to 14 at Bar (DR); 9 on November 1 1 at LPew (JWH); 4 at Fre, 101 at GR, and 53 at Bar on November 1 1 (MB); 7 on September 12 at OFL (AR, TR); 36 on November 15 at Lin (AR, TR); one on November 22 at War (LMc); 3 on November 22 at Falls (DO); 1 0 on November 23 in Mars ( Hap, CP); 3 on November 26 at Lau (CB). RED-NECKED GREBE - 1 on November 15 at KY (FB); 1 imm. on November 19 and 22 at Mel (FR): 1 on November 25 at Mel (DR). Pied-billed Grebe - 26 at Falls and 26 at Fre on October 10 (MB); regular through¬ out northern Kentucky with 6 on November 2 at Mark (LMc); 5 on November 2 in Ohio County (KC, JP); 33 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP); 24 on November 29 at LPew (JWH); 8 on November 28 at Falls (JP). Horned Grebe - 2 on September 10 in Hart (MS); 2 on October 20 at Falls (MB); 6 at KY on November 4 (MB); 12 on November 8 at Mel (FR); 2 on November 1 1 at LPew (JWH); 48 on November 1 1 at Mel with 1 1 at Bell (FR); 4 on November 12 and 6 on November 13 at OFL (AR, TR); on November 15 there were 13 on Fre, 20 at GR, and 1 1 at Bar (MB); 6 on November 15 at Lin (AR, TR); 10 on November 22 at Mark (LMc); 21 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP); 2 on November 26 at Lau (CB); 8 on November 28 at Falls (JP) Double-crested Cormorant -12 on August 30 (Hap, CP); 3 on September 15 at LPew (JWH); 25 on September 27 in Mars (Hap, CP); 7 on September 30 at EBP, 4 on September 20 at Pet (LMc); a total of 53 in Mars on October 1 1 and 19 (Hap, CP); 25 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP); 38 on October 12 at Slo (MB); 41 on October 1 8 at Crooked Creek, LBL(MB); 1 on November 2 in Ohio County (KC, JP); 30 on November 8 and 15 on November 22 at Mark (LMc); 2400 on November 6 at Mark (FR); 1 on November 28 at Falls (JP). American Bittern - 1 on September 30 at Sha (DR). Great Blue Heron - 10 on August 3 at Mor, 38 on October 18 at LBL. and 41 on November 4 at LBar (MB); 1 to 2 seen throughout the period in Barren and Hart cos. (MS); 1 8 on August 30 in Ball and 6 on August 31 in Mars, and 100 on October 19 in Mars (Hap, CP). Great Egret - 16 on August 16 at SC (MH ); 56 on August 30 in Ball (Hap. CP); 9 on September 10 and 7 on October 9 at LPew (JWH); 3 on September 12 at MCFH (FB); 2 on October 1 8 at Jon (MB); 3 on September 20 at EBP (LMc); 2 on November 2 in Ohio County (KC. JP). 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 5 Snowy Egret - 3 on October 15 at Lake #9, Hie (DR). Little Blue Heron - 1 2 on August 3 at Mor and 1 1 on September 27 at Mos (MB ); 4 to 7 were present at Weir’s Creek, Hopkins County in late September and early October (JWH); 35 on October 19 in Mars (Hap, CL). Cattle Egret - 1 on October 15 at Smi (DR). Black-crowned Night-Heron - 2 on September 20 at EBP (LMc); one imm. on October 18 at KY (MB). White Ibis - Three imm. at Lake #9, Hie (DR). Snow Goose - 25 on November 22 at Phil (JP). Canada Goose - 62 on November 12 in Btl (CT, DT); a high number of 46 on November 25 at LPew (JWH). Green-winged Teal - 2 to 5 from October 24 to November 1 1 at Pet (LMc). Mallard - Approx. 1 30 on October 20 at Falls (MB ); 50 on November 28 at Falls (JP). Northern Pintail - Male and female on October 18 and 19 at MCFH (FB); 6 on November 4 at FBL (MB). Northern Shoveler - 6 on November 2 and 23 in Mars (Hap, CP). Gadwall - 18 on November 2 at Pea (HC, JP); approx. 100 on November 1 1 at Falls (MB); 4 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP); 20 on November 28 at Falls (BPB, JP). American Wigeon - 10 on October 19 in Mars (Hap, CP); 9 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP). Redhead - 12 on November 15 at Lin (AR, TR). Canvasback - 8 on November 1 1 and 6 on November 25 at LPew (JWH); 3 on November 15 and 5 on November 29 at Falls (MB); 5 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP). Ring-necked Duck - 6 on October 26 and 1 on November 25 at FPew - numbers are down compared with previous years (JWH). Lesser Scaup - 8 on November 28 at Falls (JP). Surf Scoter - 3 females on November 1 at Mel (FR); 1 on November 7 on Ohio River at Louisville (DR); 1 at Falls November 27 (DO); 1 on November 28 at Falls (JP); 1 on November 29 at Falls (MB). Black Scoter - 1 female on November 1 at Mel (FR); 1 on November 1 1 on Ohio River at Louisville and 1 on November 14 (DR) also 1 on November 15 (MB) at Bar; 4 females on November 25 at Bel (FR); 2 on November 27 at Falls (DO). White-winged Scoter - 1 male on October 28 at Bel (FR); 2 on November 13 (DR) and 1 on November 15 at Fre (MB) and 2 on November 17 at Bar (DR). Bufflehead - 3 to 9 were seen on November 1 1 at several locations in Boone County (LMc); 20 on November 13 at OFL (AR, TR); 8 on November 26 at Lau (CB); approx. 25 at MCFH during November (FB). Hooded Merganser - 3 on October 23 at CEL and 3 at RH on November 1 1 6 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 (LMc). Red-breasted Merganser - 5 on Ohio River on November 1 1 at Cra and 4 on November 22 at War (LMc); 15 at Lin on November 15 (AR, TR). Ruddy Duck - 1 to 3 from October 25 to November 21 in Boone County with 10 on November 22 at Mar (LMc); 10 on November 4 at Jon (MB); 1 8 on November 9 at Mel (FR); 20 on November 1 1 and 35 on November 25 at LPew (JWH); approx. 200 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP). Black Vulture - 30 on August 16 at Sha (MB); present during the period with a high count of 50 on September 20 at Ghe and EBP (LMc). Turkey Vulture - 37 on August 23 at Sha (MB). Osprey - 1 on August 16 and 23 at Sha (MB); 1 on September 23 over KY River in Jessamine County (WD); 1 on October 6 at LPew (JWH). SWALLOW-TAILED KITE - A single bird was observed by many people from August 16 through September 7 over the Ohio River at Pet (JH. DO. LMc, JP, FR). First record for the area. Documentation submitted. Mississippi Kite - 4 in Hickman County on August 30 (MB); 3 on August 30 in Ballard County (Hap, CP). Bald Eagle - 1 on August 30 at Ballard County (Hap, CP) ; 1 near adult and 1 imm. present at MCFH during the period (FB); 1 adult on October 12 at Slo, 1 adult on November 15 at Mel (FR); adult on November 13 at OFL (AR, TR); 3 imm. on November 15 at Gre and 1 imm. at Mar on November 29 (MB); 1 adult and 2 imm. on November 26 at Lau (CB). Northern Harrier - 8 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP); 3 on November 26 at Pulaski County strip mine area (CB). Sharp-shinned Hawk - 1 on August 1 0 and October 3 in Barren County with 2 on August 18 and 19 in Hart (MS); 1 on August at Sha (MB); 1 at Bell on October 3 (FR); 7 on October 8 in Btl (CT, DT); 1 on September 22 at SC (JP). Cooper’s Hawk - 1 on August 3 1 at BNP (DO); 1 imm. on November 1 1 and 1 4 in Btl (CT, DT); 1 on November 20 over Bell (FR). Broad-winged Hawk - 13 on September 21 at JCP (DO); 15 on September 24 at BBL (LMc); 2 on September 27 at Hul (RE. SS). Red-tailed Hawk - 1 on August 30 in Ball (Hap, CP); 7 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP). Northern Rough-legged Hawk - 3 on November 2 at Pea (KC. JP). Golden Eagle - 1 on November 16 at Mel (FR); 1 on November 20 at Pea (DR). American Kestrel - 17 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP); 4 on November 2 in Mars (Hap, CP); 4 on November 28 in Gallatin County (JP). Merlin - Single observations on September 12 at Jon, September 18 at Slo, Sep¬ tember 21 at KY, September 26 at Boyd's Landing, LBar, October 8 and Octo¬ ber 17 at McEl. October 23 at University Farm, Warren County and October 27 in Henry County (DR). 7 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Peregrine Falcon - 1 on September 22 near Ohio Bridge, Jefferson County (DO). Ruffed Grouse - 3 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Virginia Rail - 1 on October 12 at Slo (MB, DO). Sora - 29 (MB) and 8 (DO) on October 12 at Slo. American Coot - 70 on September 25, approx. 300 on October 20, 500 on No¬ vember 1 1 with only 14 on November 25 at LPew (JWH); 157 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP); approx. 300 on November 4 at LBar Dam (MB ); present at several locations in northern Kentucky with a high of 150 on November 1 1 at Mark (LMc); approx. 150 on November 15 at Falls (MB). Sandhill Crane - 165 in three flocks on November 12 over SC (JP); 231 on No¬ vember 14 and 43 on November 15 in Hart (MS); 3 on November 26 at Lau (CB). The shorebird movement was widespread with most normal species being reported. Black-bellied Plover - 1 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP). American Golden Plover - 2 on August 1 (DR) and 1 on August 3 (MB ) at Mor and 3 on October 30 at Jon (DR). Semipalmated Plover - 9 on September 2 and 14 on September 6 at MCFH (FB); 4 on September 27 in Mars (Hap, CP). Piping Plover - 1 on September 27 and November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP) . Kilideer - Approx. 500 on August 3 at Mor (MB) and approx. 200 at Mos on September 27 (MB). Lesser Yellowlegs - 14 on August 22 at MCFH (FB). Sanderling - 1 on August 9 at Lak (MB); I on November 2 at KY (DR). Upland Sandpiper 1 on September 8 on Meng Road, Warren County (DR). Ruddy Turnstone - I on September 21 at LBar Dam (DR). Pectoral Sandpiper - Approx. 100 on August 3 at Mor (MB). Baird’s Sandpiper - 1 on August 22 at MCFH (FB). Dunlin - 1 on October 31 at CEL (LMc); 18 on November 1 at MCFH (FB); 8 on November 4 at Smi and 28 at Jon (MB). Stilt Sandpiper - 1 on October 14 at MCFH (FB ). Buff-breasted Sandpiper - 2 on August 31 at Laketon, Warren County (DR); 2 on August 31 at Lak (MB). Short-billed Dowitcher - 1 on August 9 at Swan Lake, Ball (MB). Laughing Gull - 1 adult on October 14 and October 30 at KY Dam (DR). Franklin’s Gull - 2 on October 14 and 6 on October 15 at Smi with single obser¬ vations on October 30 at Smi, November 2 at Smi, on November 5 at Mark and Falls (DR). Bonaparte’s Gull - Unusually high numbers along the Ohio River in northern Kentucky, as many as 20 from November 1 to November 23 at Pet (LMc); 250+ at Cra on November 8 (LMc); 800 on November 9, 1800 on November 11, 900 on November 15 at Mel (FR); 50 on November 15 at Falls (MB); 70 on Novem¬ ber 21 at MCFH (FB); 300+ on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP); 250 to 300 on Vol. 74 8 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER November 28 at Mark (JE. BOB, JP). Ring-billed Gull - Approx. 100 on October 1 1 and 300 on October 19 in Mars (Hap, CP); approx. 300 at Smi and approx. 200 at Jon on October 18 (MB); approx. 120 at Bark and 600 at Smi on November 14 with 300 at Falls on No¬ vember 15 (MB); 1200 on November 9, 700 on November 1 1, and 900 on No¬ vember 15 at Mel (FR); approx. 500 on November 23 at KY (Hap, CP). Herring Gull - 2 on October 1 8 at Smi (MB); 4 at Bark and 4 at Smi on November 4 (MB); 6 on November 22 at Cra (FMc); 12 on November 23 in Mars (Hap, CP). Thayer’s Gull - 2 on November 23 at KY (Hap, CP). ICELAND GULL - 1 first-winter bird was seen November 1 . 2 and 3 at Mel (BPB, FR). BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE - 1 first year bird on November 23 at Mark (DR, FR); 1 first-year bird on November 28 at Mark (JE, BPB, JP); 1 on Novem¬ ber 29 at Mark (MB). Caspian Tern - 2 on August 9 at Lak (MB ); 1 on August 24 and 3 on August 28 in Boone County (FR). Forster’s Tern - 2 on August 30 in Ball and 1 0 on August 3 1 in with 2 on October 19 and 4 on November 2 in Mars (HAP, CP); 25 on November 4 at Jon and 1 on November 15 at Gre (MB). Least Tern - 30 to 40 on August 9 near Swan Lake, Ball and 7 on October 1 8 at Jon (MB); 13 on August 30 in Ball (Hap, CP). Black Tern - 5 on August 9 on the Miss (MB); 3 on August 30 in Ball (Hap, CP). Eastern Screech-Owl - 1 on August 1 6 and 23 at Sha (MB); 1 on September 5 and October 1 at SC (JP); 2 on September 19 at Yah (SS); 1 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Great Horned Owl - 1 on August 23 and 1 on August 24 in Hart with 1 on No¬ vember 12 in Bar (MS); 2 calling on August 30 in Lyon County (MB). Barred Owl - 1 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Ruby-throated Hummingbird - Last date in Hart was October 8 (MS). Red-headed Woodpecker - 1 seen in Hart on August 24, September 12, Septe- ber 23, and October 10 (MS). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker- 1 on 1 1 November in Lexington. Fayette County (WD); one on November 12 at Sho (JP); one on November 20 in Btl (CT. DT). Olive-sided Flycatcher - Single observations on September 16 and 18 at Sha and on September 31 in Fulton County (DR). Yellow-bellied Flycatcher - 2 on August 3 1 at Ball WM A ( MB ). WESTERN KINGBIRD - Single observations at Lake #9, Ful on September 30 and 31 (DR). Documentation submitted. Horned Lark - 6 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP); 1 on November 30 at airport, Rough River State Park (JP). Tree Swallow - 37 on August 30 in Ball (Hap, CP); 12 on October 12 at Slo (MB). Northern Rough-winged Swallow - Last date on October 15 in Fulton County THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 9 1998 (DR). Cliff Swallow - 50 on August 31 in Mars (Hap, CP). Barn Swallow - 50 on September 14 in Ball (Hap, CP); last date on October 15 in Fulton County (DR). Red-breasted Nuthatch - 1 on September 12 and on October 7 at SC (JP); 4 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS); 6 on October 7 at BPS (KC); first seen on Octo¬ ber 17 at Mad (JWH); 1 on October 25 at BBL (LMc). Brown Creeper - 2 on November 9 at Blu (SS). Carolina Wren - 6 at Blu and 16 at Yah on September 19 (SS); 6 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS); normal numbers for the period at SC (JP). Winter Wren - 2 on October 18 at MC (LMc); 6 on November 9 at Blu (SS) . Golden-crowned Kinglet - 3 on November 9 at Bern (DO); 30 on November 9 at Blu (SS). Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 1 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS); 2 on November 9 at Blu (SS). Gray-cheeked Thrush - 1 on September 19 at Blu (SS); 1 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Swainson’s Thrush - 3 on September 19 at Yah (SS). Hermit Thrush - 3 on October 1 1 at MC (LMc); 1 8 on November 9 at Blu (SS). Wood Thrush - 16 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Brown Thrasher - 1 on September 27 at SC (JP); last recorded on October 15 at LPew (JWH). American Pipit - 10+ with a high of 75 on October 23 from November 15 to the 24 at MCFH (FB); 15 on November 23 in Mars (Hap,CP). Bell’s Vireo I on August 23 at Sha (MB ); 1 on September 15 at Pea (DR). Solitary Vireo - 1 at Blu and 1 at Yah on September 19 (SS); 1 on September 23 at Saw (DO); 5 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS); 1 on November 9 at Blu (SS). Yellow-throated Vireo - 1 on September 19 at Yah (SS); 1 on September 27 at MCNP(DO). Warbling Vireo - 1 was at Pet on September 6 (DO). Golden-winged Warbler - 1 on September 20 at BBL (LMc). Orange-crowned Warbler - 1 on September 20 at JCP (DO); 2 in October 8 at Drake’s Creek, Warren County (DR). Tennessee Warbler - 1 on September 20 and 26 at Bell (FR). Chestnut-sided Warbler - 3 on September 19 at Yah (SS); 1 at JCP on September 20 (DO); 1 on September 20 at Bell (FR); 1 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Magnolia Warbler - 4 at Blu and 2 at Yah on September 19 (SS); 1 on September 20 at JCP (DO); 1 on September 25 at Bell (FR); 1 on September 26 at SC ( JP); 5 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS) . Yellow-rumped Warbler - First fall observation in Btl October 9 (CT, DT); ob¬ served in Louisville on October 10 (DO). JO _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 Black-throated Green Warbler - 3 at Blu and 3 at Yah on September 19 (SS); observed at Pine on September 20 (DO). Blackburnian Warbler - 5 at Blu on September 19 (SS); 1 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS); one on October 4 at Pine (DO). Yellow-throated Warbler - 1 on August 1 with 2 on August 1 0 in Btl (CT, DT); 1 on September 12 at SC (JP); 1 on September 27 at MCNP (DO). Pine Warbler - 9 at Blu and 2 at Yah on September 19 (SS); 3 on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS); 1 on September 27 at MCNP (DO). Prairie Warbler - 1 on September 27 at MCNP (DO). Palm Warbler - 1 on September 13 in Btl (CT. DT); 1 on September 26 and 2 on October 7 at SC (JP). Bay-breasted Warbler - 1 on September 19 at Yah (SS); 1 at MCNP on Septem¬ ber 27 (DO); 4 on September 27 at Hul (RE. SS). American Redstart - 5 at Yah on September 19 (SS) and 1 at Hul on September 27 (RE, SS); 1 on September 21 at Bell (FR). Connecticut Warbler - 1 on October 6 at Cha (DR). Hooded Warbler - 6 at Blu and 10 at Yah on September 19; 1 at MCNP on Sep¬ tember 27 (DO); 10 at Hul on September 27 at Hul (RE, SS). Wilson’s Warbler - 1 at feeder on September 1 3 at Bell (FR); 9 on September 1 7 at Drake’s Creek, Warren County (DR); 1 on September 20 at EBP (LMc). Canada Warbler - 1 on September 19 at Yah (SS). Summer Tanager- Ion September 22 and 27 in Hart (MS); Ion September 27 at MCNP (DO); last obs. at Mad was on October 9 ( JWH) . Scarlet Tanager - 5 on September 19 at Yah (SS). Rose-breasted Grosbeak - 2 at Yah on September 19 (SS); 1 or two seen in Hart from September 23 to October 8 (MS); 5 on September 27 at Hul (RE. SS); 2 on September 28 at SC (JP); 1 on September 19 and October 2 at Mad (JWH). Blue Grosbeak - 1 imm. on August 1 in Btl (CT, DT); 1 on August 2 at Pet (LMc); nest located August 2 near Wild with adults feeding young as late as August 14 (FR); 1 singing on August 15 near Mad (JWH). Dickcissel - 1 on August 10 in Bar (MS); 12 on August 30 in Ball (Hap. CP). Chipping Sparrow - 20 on November 9 at Blu (SS); 1 at a feeder on November 19 in Logan County, a rather late date (MB). Vesper Sparrow - 1 on November 2 at Pea (KC. JP). Lark Sparrow - 1 on October 7 at SC (JP). Savannah Sparrow - 38 on October 12 at Slo (MB). Grasshopper Sparrow - Last date of October 29 at McEl (DR). LeConte’s Sparrow - 2 on October 12 at Slo (MB, DO); single observations on October 17 at Cha. October 21 at Mor, October 21 at McEl and October 12 at Slo (DR). 1 998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ \± NELSON'S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW - Single birds on October 8 at McEl and on October 12 at Slo (DR). Documentation submitted. Fox Sparrow - 2 on November 9 at Blu (SS). Song Sparrow - 12 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP). Lincoln’s Sparrow - 1 on October 13 at CEL (LMc). Swamp Sparrow - Approx. 275 on October 12 at Slo (MB); 4 on November 2 at Pea (KC, JP); 5 on November 8 in Hart (MS). White-throated Sparrow - First fall obs. on October 10 in Mad (JWH); 4 on October 18 at LBL (MB); 20 on November 9 at Blu (SS); first observed in Btl on November 21 (CT, DT). Dark-eyed Junco - First fall obs. in Mars on October 18 (MB); first fall obs. in Mad on October 2 1 (JWH); seen in Btl on October 23 (CT, DT); 1 8 on Novem¬ ber 9 at Blu (SS). Brewer’s Blackbird - 3 on November 22 in Oldham County (DO). Purple Finch I female on October 24 in Mad (JWH); I female on November 9 and 6 on November 19 in Logan County (MB). Pine Siskin - 12 on October 25 at RH (LMc); 2 at feeder on October 28 at SC (MH); 8 to 21 between November 7 and 15 at Mad (JWH); 2 on October 30 and 8 on November 1 6 at SC (JP); 23 in early November at BPS (KC); 14 on No vember 6 and 22 on November 15 in Btl (CT, DT); 2 on November 9 and 3 on November 23 at feeder in Logan County (MB); 3 on November 15 in Lexington (WD); 20+ on November 26 at Lau (CB); 4 on November 29 at Bern (MB); numbers were above normal at OFL and Lin (AR, TR). Evening Grosbeak -1 on November 23 at Drake’s Creek, Warren County (DR); 1 at feeder on November 26 at Lau (CB). Contributors - Mark Bennett (MB), Clay Black (CB), Fred Busroe (FB), Hap Chambers (Hap), Kathryn Clay (KC), Wayne Davis (WD), Jackie Elmore (JE), Robert Emmott (RE), James W. Hancock (JWH), Mary Harrel (MH), Janet Howard (JH), Ned Keller (NK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Darren O'Brien (DO), Brainard Palmer-Ball (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Joyce Porter (JP), Frank Renfrew (FR), Art Ricketts (AR), Tina Ricketts (TR), David Roemer (DR), Stephen Stedman (SS), Jay Strenger (JS), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Carrol Tichenor (CT) and Doris Tichenor (DT). Observations currently under review by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee: Swallow-tailed Kite - Boone County - 16 October to 7 September 1997. Golden Eagle - Meldahl Dam, Bracken County - 2 November. Iceland Gull - Meldahl Dam, Bracken County - 2 November. Western Kingbird - Fulton County - 30 to 31 August, 1997. Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow - McElroy Lake, Warren Co. 8 October. -- UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead. KY 40351 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 12 MID-WINTER BIRD COUNT 1997-1998 Reports of 22 counts were received from across the state. A total of 1 24 species was recorded on count days. Ill of which are represented on the table. Those species observed on count days that are not represented on the table include: Red- throated Loon (1, Glasgow), Green-backed Heron (1. Danville), Golden Eagle ( 1 .Bernheim), Peregrine Falcon ( 1 . Louisville), Ruffed Grouse ( 1 . Perry County), Least Sandpiper. Lesser Black-backed Gull. Thayer's Gull. Laughing Gull ( 1 each. Land Between the Lakes), American Pipit ( 1 . Green River Lake), Pine Warbler ( 1 . Burlington), Palm Warbler (1. Frankfort) and Dickcissel (1, Louisville). Greater White-fronted Goose (Burlington), Loggerhead Shrike (Frankfort) and EveningGrosbeaks (5, Glasgow) were added by observations made during the count week. Three more species were observed this year compared with last. Seventeen species were observed on every count and eighteen species only on one count. Seven counts were conducted on December 20 and five on January 3.. The temperature range for the count period was from 20°F for a low on December 28 to 65°F for a high on January 3. The temperatures were mild at the beginning and end of the count period, with a slight dip in temperature in the middle of the pe¬ riod.. The number of waterfowl appeared to be good, remaining fairly constant compared with the previous year. Mallards have declined in numbers for the sec¬ ond year in a row (8152 in 1995 to 6799 in 1996 to 4983 in 1997), whereas Com¬ mon Goldeneye numbers have increased during the same period (48 in 1995, 131 in 1996 and 207 in 1997) as have Ring-necked Duck numbers (454 in 1995, 576 in 1996 and 813 in 1997). There was a tremendous influx of Red-breasted Nuthatches, with 200 observed this year compared with 8 last year. Eastern Blue¬ bird numbers continue to remain relatively constant.. Purple Finch numbers con¬ tinue to decline ( 186 in 1995. 135 in 1996 and 95 in 1997). House Finch numbers declined from 2391 last year to 1467 this year, perhaps due to the bacterial infec¬ tion that has swept through finch populations. As always, definitive conclusions regarding short-term population trends based on results of these counts are not possible. Other observations of interest can be found in the comments accompa¬ nying the description for each count. Thanks are sincerely extended to all participants, particularly those who submit¬ ted verification forms for unusual sightings and those who included interesting comments about their counts. In order to be included officially in the count and considered for state record status, documentation needs to be considered by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee (KBRC) for unusual sightings. 1998 13 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Calloway County (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Douglas Cemetery.) Habitat 30% urban and residential, 15% deciduous and pine woods, 35% open fields, 20% lake shore and streams. Jan. 3; 5:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 58° to 64°F; wind, 10-20 m.p.h. Nine observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 30.5 (12.5 on foot, 18 by car). Total party-miles 190 (13 on foot, 177 by car). Total species 71; total individuals 9,255. Observers: Hap Chambers (compiler), Joe Tom Erwin, Bob Head, Rick Hokans, Sally Leedom, Mike Miller, Clell Peterson, Shari Sherwood, and Tommy Sherwood. Lack of waterfowl was attributed to abundance of duck hunters and warm weather. There were 3 immature and 6 adult Bald Eagles. Land Between the Lakes (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Pisgah Bay picnic ground.) Habitat mostly wooded areas, some fields, a few small towns, Kentucky Lake and Barkley Lake. Dec. 20; 6:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky clear a.m. to partly cloudy p.m.; temp. 38° to 52°F; wind SW, 8- 1 2 m.p.h. Twenty one observers in 9 parties. Total party-hours 141.5 (23.5 on foot, 1 18 by car). Total party-miles 229 (17 on foot, 212 by car). Total species 89; total individuals 9,168. Observers: Stephanie Askew, Don Bennett, Mark Bennett, Richard Cassell, Hap Chambers, James Compton, Melissa Easley, Joe Tom Erwin, Bob Head, Patrick Holcomb, Carl Mowery (compiler), Kathy Mowery, John Palpeter, Clell Peterson, Darrin Samborski. Shari Sherwood, Tommy Sherwood, Maurica Toon, Whitney Weber, Bill Wells and Henry Yacek. Thayer’s Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull and Laughing Gulls were at the Dams. Least Sandpipers at Craven’s Bay. There were 27 adult and 17 immature Bald Eagles. Sorgho (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 279-S and Audubon Parkway intersection.) Habitat two parks (one county and one state), farm, wood¬ land, river bottoms and feeders. Jan. 1 ; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky clear to partly cloudy, temp. 28° to 55°F; wind 5-14 m.p.h. The overnight low was 12 F, there were four inches of snow on the ground and most water was frozen. Five observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 35 (18 on foot, 17 by car). Total party-miles 316 ( 1 6 on foot, 300 by car). Total species 54; total individuals 3,31 8. Observers: Patricia Augenstein, Joe Ford, Janet Howard (compiler), Joyce Porter, and Tommy Stevenson. Olmstead (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Junction of KY 1041 and KY 1151, six miles southwest of Russellville, Kentucky.) Habitat as described in 1993. Dec. 29; 6:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 27° to 340F; wind, 0-10 m.p.h. Morning snow up to one inch, with mixed rain, snow and sleet in the p.m. One observer in 1 party. Total party-hours 10.25 (4.25 on foot, 6 by car). Total party-miles 101 (2 on foot. 99 by car). Total species 58; total individuals 2,199. Observer: Mark Bennett (compiler), with feeder watcher: Tommie Bennett. 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X cs £: w X f— c/3 !^ O * CC Q * < U3 < rr X X X CC • X ^ u- Q Tn uc X cs u f— — X U3 3 CS CS 03 ^2 03 O CS s o x S P 3 ° z x a == e OecjC U cc e- X a- U 3- Z CJ ~ z u- « X X X Cu u z X Q ^ 2 S i-i S X ^ 2U* Z 2 ^ w a x O X X u DAY OF COUNT J3 D20 J1 D29 J3 D20 D23 J2 D20 J2 D20 D28 D2I D28 D20 J3 J3 D20 D27 D20 J3 D28 NUMBER OF SPECIES 71 89 54 58 80 61 46 63 52 72 56 60 93 55 54 35 63 74 57 61 76 32 INDIVIDUALS 9255 9168 3318 2199 20808 5668 1043 2620 1525 3168 3191 4038 23333 3560 2864 533 6576 8599 3005 4511 9064 215 OBSERVERS 9 21 5 1 15 4 6 3 5 10 12 12 30 5 14 9 32 31 15 6 14 I 18 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 ing pressure. Paradise (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1993.) Habitat as described in 1993. Jan 3; 4:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy; temp. 50° to 65°F; wind S-SW. 5-18 m.p.h. Water mostly open. Fifteen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 43.5 (14.5 on foot, 29 by car). Total party-miles 283 (12 on foot, 271 by car). Hours owling 3. Total species 80; total individuals 20.808. Observers: Jane Bell. Pat Bell, Mark Bennett, Phillip Casteel, Kathryn Clay. Beth Creighton, Jerry Devore, Richard Healy, Jr., Mike Henshaw, Martin Hines, Darren O'Brien. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Joyce Porter, Robert Rold. and Eric Williams. Windy conditions hampered efforts to locate songbirds, contributing to a lower- than-average species total. Waterfowl were not as abundant as in some years, likely due to the mild weather. Raptors were fairly numerous, perhaps due to breezy conditions which allowed for observation. Highlights included the American Woodcock (a count first) Hushed from a fencerow in Muhlenberg County and the two Brewer's Blackbirds (both males) feeding by themselves in a large field near the Green River in Muhlenberg County. The totals for Ring-necked Duck (684, Northern Harrier (83), Wild Turkey (112) and Hermit Thrush (9) were new record highs for this count. The total number of individuals does not include thousands of blackbirds (mostly red-wings and grackles) that passed over on their way from and to a roost to the northwest of the count circle. Bowling Green (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Three Springs, six miles south of Bowling Green.) Habitat deciduous forest 20%, fields and pas¬ tures 60%, and town and parks 20%. Dec. 20; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky over¬ cast, rain in p.m.; temp. 32° to 410F; wind N, 10 m.p.h. Four observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 20 (2 on foot. 18 by car). Total party-miles 92 (6 on foot, 86 by car). Total species 61; total individuals 5,668. Observers: Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Wayne Mason. Marvin Russell, and feeder watcher Herbert E. Shadowen. Mammoth Cave National Park (Center and habitat as described in 1980.) Dec. 23; 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 40° to 45°F; wind calm. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 24 (6 on foot. 18 by car). Total party-miles 143 (9 on foot, 134 by car). Total species 46 total individuals 1.094. Observers: Clint Blankenship. Lester Doyle, Tom Durbin. Blaine Ferrell (com¬ piler), Wayne Mason and David Roemer.. Glasgow (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1986.) Habitat as described in 1986. Jan. 2; 6:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 37° to 48°F; wind calm a.m., NNW 5-10 m.p.h. in p.m. Three observers in 3 parties, with 8 feeder watchers. Total party-hours 21(11 on foot. 10 by car). Total party-miles 72 ( 10 on foot, 62 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 2,620. Observers: Lester Doyle. Marquita Gillenwater. Wayne M. Mason (compiler), Feeder watchers: Edie Bell, Libby Erwin, Osa Lee Follis, Arlene Lapham, Doris 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 19 McKinley, Billie Mae Moore, Emma Jean Pitcoek and Rutha Terry. Falls of Rough (all points within a 1 5-mile diameter circle, center Short Creek, Kentucky at the intersection of Highway 79 and Highway 54.) Habitat woodland, cultivated fields, Rough River Lake, Rough River State Park, riverbottoms, water¬ shed lakes, old fields and yard feeders. Dec. 20; 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky over¬ cast, partly sunny early afternoon; temp. 39° to 50°F; wind calm. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 15.5 (3.5 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles 130 (6 on foot, 124 by car). Total species 52; total individuals 1,525. Observers: Pat Augenstein, Kathryn Clay, Rebecca Foreman, Mary Harrel, Neal Hayden, and Joyce Porter (compiler). There is a vulture roost at Rough River State Park, hence the large number of vultures. Those listed were seen mid afternoon. Green River Lake (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Green River Memorial Baptist Church, Taylor County, Kentucky.) Habitat as described in 1996. Jan. 2; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky mostly clear to partly cloudy; temp. 410 to 56°F; wind S 30 m.p.h. Unseasonably warm and blustery.. Ten observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 22.5 (12.5 on foot, 10 by car). Total party-miles 94.5 (4.5 on foot, 89 by car). Total species 72; total individuals 3, 168. Observers: Richard Cassell, Lloyd C. Curry (compiler), Diane Elmore, Jackie Elmore, Martina Hines, Richard Kessler, Sonya Kessler, and Bainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., and feeder watchers Sarah Durham and Betty Wilcoxson. Windy conditions forced many waterfowl against the banks and other birds to the cover of trees and shrubs, similar to last year. Four adult and four immature Bald Eagles were observed. Otter Creek Park (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as de¬ scribed in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 15%, park area 20%, farmlands 38%, woodlands 13% ponds, creeks, lake, and river 14%. Dec. 20; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy to clear; temp. 42° to 52°F; wind W-N, 8-15 m.p.h. Very windy all day. Twelve observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 29.5 ( 1 2 on foot, 17.5 by car). Total party-miles 1 88.5 ( 1 2 on foot, 1 76.5 by car). Total species 56; total individu¬ als 3,191. Observers: Mary B. Bauer, Debbie Johnson, Frank H. Krull, John Krull. Joyce Metzger, Diane Miller, Robert Miller, Doxie Noonan, Darren O’Brien, Helga Schutte, Anne L. Stamm (compiler), and Ed Toone. The count was low due to the scarcity of ducks and lack of geese and owls. Doe Valley Lake was completely devoid of waterfowl with the exceptioin of one Ameri¬ can Coot. Some of the highlights however, included a Great Blue Heron, five Red¬ headed Woodpeckers, eight Red-breasted Nuthatches, 78 Golden-crowned King¬ lets, a Savannah Sparrow and one Purple Finch. The wild fruit crop for the most part was good, but in the park it was considered poor. Bernheim Forest (all points within a 1 5-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1974.) Habitat as described in 1974. Dec. 28; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky mostly clear; temp. 20° to 35°F; wind SW, 0-12 m.p.h. Water partly open. THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 20 Vol. 74 Twelve observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 25.5 (11.5 on foot, 14 by car). Total party-miles 180 (7 on foot, 173 by car). Total species 60; total individuals 4.038. Observers; Jane Bell. Pat Bell, David Berry, Shirley Berry. Julie Denton, Roseanna Denton, Steve Denton, Steve Figg, Martina Hines, Bob Johnson, Tim Love and, Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr. (compiler). The day was cold, but nice for birding. The species total is below average. The totals for Wild Turkey and most raptors were low and waterfowl were low in di¬ versity. Berry-eating species were about average and winter finches were repre¬ sented by only a few Pine Siskins and Purple Finches. Count highlights included the Golden Eagle, a probable sub-adult observed at the now traditional area along Wilson Creek in southern Bullitt County, and the flock of Sandhill Cranes, ob¬ served while watching for an eagle. Two Accipiter sp. were observed. Louisville (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Jet. Hwys 42 and 22, as deserbed in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 21 ; 8:00 a. m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 33° to 43°F; wind E, 12 m.p.h. Thirty observers in 15 parties. Total party-hours 101 .5 (47 on foot, 54.5 by car). Total party-miles 456 (32.25 on foot, 423.75 by car). Total species 93; total indi¬ viduals 23,338. Observers: Garrett Adams, Win Ahrens, Michael Auten. Mary Bill Bauer, Jane Bell and Pat Bell (compilers). Dona Coates, Jane Fender. Steve Figg. Chuck Hatten, Bob Johnson, Frank Krull. John Krull, Tim Love. Fred Mansmith, Burt Monroe III. Mark Monroe, Doxie Noonan. Peggy Oates, Darrin O'Brien, Clara Ann Pallares. David Pallares, Martha Pike, Robert Quaife, Lene Rauth. Helga Schutte, Paul Serridge, Anne L. Stamm. Thomas Stover, Ed Toone, and Beckham Bird Club and Friends. Two Accipiter sp. were observed. 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'- 1 190', farmland, fallow land, suburban, wooded and grassland. Dec. 28; 7:50 a.m. to 5:40 p.m. Sky sunny; temp. 30° to 37oF; wind W, 15 m.p.h. Five observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 17 (0 on foot. 17 by car). Total party-miles 267 (0 on foot, 267 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 3,560. Observers: Iris Brown, Joan Brown, Seth Brown, Todd Brown. W.H. Brown (compiler). First time ever a Mute Swan and Bonaparte's Gull were observed. High number of crows is the result of early morning observations apparently near a roost. Frankfort (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 20; 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 37° to 55°F; wind SSW/NNW, 0-16 m.p.h. Fifteen observers in 1 1-12 parties. Total party-hours 28.5 (13.5 on foot. 15 by car). Total party-miles 193.5 (12.5 on foot, 181 by car). 14.5 hours at feeders.. One person 3.5 hours at a feeder. Total species 50; total individuals 2.919. Observers: James Derryberry, Margaret Derryberry, Suzanne Doerrteld. Jim Durell. Peggy Gould (Compiler), Ralph Gould, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker. 21 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Jeff Jones, Margaret LaFontaine, Greg Pond, Sherri Pond, Shelly Rice, Steven Smith, Tim Williams. Kleber Wildlife Management Area (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1977.) Habitat as described in 1977. Jan. 3; 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 48° to 640F; wind SW, 0-24 m.p.h. Nine observers in 3-4 parties. Total party-hours 19 (13.75 on foot, 7.25 by car). Total party-miles 87 (10 on foot, 77 by car). Total species 35; total individuals 533. Observers: Betty Behoar, Suzanne Doerrfeld. Jim Durell. Peggy Gould (com¬ piler), Ralph Gould, Mike Larimore, Rae McIntyre, Ray McIntyre, Mark Roberts. Danville (all points within a 1 5-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Court¬ house.) Habitat as described before. Jan. 3; 8:00 a. in. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy in a.m.. partly cloudy p.m.; temp. 47° to 58°F; wind S 15mp.h. WARM! Thirty two observers in 1 0 parties. Total party-hours 62.5 ( 1 6.3 on foot, 46.2 by car). Total party-miles 532.5 (22.5 on foot, 5 10 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 6,576 . Observers: Ron Barbato, Andre Brousseau, Ed Caldwell, Bill Catron, Shirley Caldwell, Casey Clark, Bob Corcoran, Mildred Dawn, Ginny Eklund, Neil Eklund (compiler), Martha Foster, Bruce Gordon, JoAnn Hamm, Michael Hamm, Dor¬ othy Belle Hill, Mort Hoaglund, Tom Kearns, J.W. Kemper, Chuck Kohler, F.W. Loetscher, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, John B. Nichols, Herb Petitjean, Louise Robinson, Lee Russell, Ralph Schiferrle, Barbara Thomas, Jay Thomas, Betty Ullrich, Charles Vahlkamp and Ms. Tracey Ward.. In addition, 41 sparrow sp. were observed during the count. Lexington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman Church on Tates Creek Road.) Habitat mixed residential and farmland. Dec. 20; Sky rain; temp. mild. All water open. Thirty one observers. Total species 74; total individuals 8,599. Observers: Earl Boggs, Troy Brown, Rose Canon, Mary Carrol, Mary Cooper, Shirley Davis, Wayne Davis, Phyllis Deal, Jean Flynn, Mike Flynn, Paul Hager, Kelly Helton, Allen Kingsland, Charles Kingsland, Betty Maxson, Bob McNeese, Mark Morgan, Robert L. Morris (compiler), Ruth Morton, Matthew Nielson, Rev. Nathan Nielson, Art Ricketts, Tina Ricketts, Bryan Shirley, Darren Shirley, Marie Sutton, Andy Uterhart, Marion Uterhart, Sally Wasielewski, Jim Williams, and Bernice Wood. Burlington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center near Camp Michaels.) Habitat as described in 1992. Dec 27; 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky partly sunny; temp. 32° to 36°F; wind SSE, 0-10 m.p.h. All water open. Fifteen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 38 (20 on foot, 18 by car). Total party-miles 222 (12 on foot, 210 by car). Total species 57; total individuals 3,005. Observers; Linda Altevers. Joe Caminiti, Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Elaine Carroll, Greg Cunningham, Melissa Desjardin, Sandy Fedderson. Kevin Flowers, 22 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vof 74 Lee McNeely (compiler), Gayle Pille, Carmen Schulte, and Tommy Stephens. Feeder Watchers: Marjorie Hill and Lynda McNeely. Both waterfowl and raptors were scarce. Good finds included and adult Bald Eagle and a count-first Pine Warhler. Six Greater White-fronted Geese were seen in the count circle one week after the count date. Warsaw (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Gallatin County courthouse.) Habitat as described in 1 992 . Dec. 20; 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky mostly cloudy; temp. 33° to 49°F; wind SE, 5-15 m.p.h. Water open. Six observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 25 (8 on foot, 17 by car). Total party-miles 206 (5 on foot, 201 by car). Total species 61; total individuals 4,51 1. Observers: JoeCaminiti. Kathy Caminiti, Kevin Flowers, Frank Lewandowski, Lee McNeely (compiler), and Tommy Stephens. Highlights included an adult Bald Eagle and a new count high for Bonaparte’s Gull. Somerset (all points within a 1 5-mile diameter circle, center at the junction of Bypass E. 80 and Highway 39, Crab Orchard Road.) Habitat water edge 15.5%, cultivated 25%, wooded and edge 23.5%. urban 9%, field/fence 25% and feeder 2%. Jan. 3; 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky cloudy a.nr., partly cloudy p.m; temp. 45°F to 61°F; wind SW. 4-15 m.p.h. Fourteen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 53.75 (23.25 on foot, 30.5 by car). Total party-miles 446.5 (14.5 on foot, 432 by car). Total species 76; total individuals 9,064. Observers: Granville Cox. Roseanna Denton (compiler), Steve Denton, Diane Elmore, Jackie Elmore, Gay Hodges, Steve Kickert, Mary Kissel, Linda McClendon, Lynda Perry. Christine Phillips, Stephen Stedman, Jim York, and Mar¬ garet York. In addition, 159 ducks. 2 hawks and 81 sparrows of unidentified species were observed during the count. Perry County (all points within a 1 5-mile diameter circle, center Cypress Amax Wildlife Area.) Habitat reclaimed strip mine, pond, woodland, and edge. Dec. 28; 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 20° to 25°F; wind calm. Cold day. One observer in 1 party. Total party-hours 7 (5 on foot, 2 by car). Total party miles 20 (5 on foot, 15 by car). Total species 32; total individuals 215. Observer: Don Spencer (Compiler) A few prairie species, such as Northern Harrier, are moving into the large re¬ claimed strip mine areas. Barn Owls and Great Horned Owls are on the decline. FIELD NOTES An Observation of Possible Tandem Cooperation by Immature Bald Eagles On November 21. 1997, two immature bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) were observed Hying around a small island in Green River Reservoir. Taylor County, Kentucky. The island is approximately 500 m from the Green River Reservoir 23 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER dam and is only visible when the reservoir is at or approaching winter pool. Upon closer inspection with a spotting scope, we discovered that the two eagles were apparently “herding” a flock of > 100 ameriean coots ( Fnlica americana) onto the This was a coordinated effort by the pair with each contributing to the containment of the flock of coots on either side by alternately swooping down from < 10 m in the air to the edges of the flock. The eagles continued to harass the coots for ap¬ proximately 5 min. after our observation began. During this time the coots re¬ mained tightly packed, with individuals remaining within a wing’ s length of each other. We were unable to determine whether a predation event occurred during and/or prior to this time. Thirty to 45 min. subsequent to the interaction the coots were observed 800-1000 m from the island and they remained tightly packed. This observation is of interest for several reasons. Our observation suggests a possible incidence of “cooperative hunting”. Cooperative hunting results from the coordinated efforts of two or more animals which results in enhanced capture suc¬ cess of prey items which are shared by the group (Bednarz 1988). Such behavior occurs most commonly in mammalian predators such as lions, wolves, etc. (Alcock 1983, Bednarz 1988) which are thought to benefit from this behavior by increased foraging efficiency and the ability to take larger prey versus foraging alone (Alcock 1993). This behavior is considered rare for birds (Gill 1995) although it has been suggested to occur in Harris’ hawks ( Parabuteo unicinctus ) and Golden Eagles (. Aquila chrysaetos\ Bednarz 1988). Most of these observations were of tandem hunting by mated pairs. Interestingly, our observation was of immature, unmated bald eagles. Further, it would be interesting to know whether the bald eagles were actually siblings, which would suggest a form of kin selection in action. The response behavior of the coot flock was of equal interest. Flocking can be considered an anti-predator tactic which reduces the likelihood of individuals be¬ ing preyed upon (dilution effect) and has been noted in many prey animals, includ¬ ing waterfowl (Gill 1 995 ). There may also be a confusion effect when tightly-packed individuals scatter upon a strike by the predator. This is commonly referred to as “skittering” when describing the reaction of schooling fishes to piscivore attacks. Coots normally occur in much looser flocks compared to our observations of them while under attack (Kessler, personal observation). The tight formation of a large number of birds has also been noted in Hying birds under hawk attack (Hamilton 1971, Tinbergen 1951). Scattering may be more effective at confusing a single predator and the eagle tandem may have prevented the coots from scattering by their persistent attacks on both sides of the flock. In addition, it appeared that the coot flock in our observation had been driven into such shallow water they were prevented from escaping the eagles by diving. 24 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Voi. 74 While we cannot confirm that we observed true cooperative hunting (e.g., no prey capture was observed and we were not able to determine whether prey was shared), it certainly was a coordinated, tandem effort by the immature eagles, which is considered rare. We hope to continue monitoring this site for similar activity in the future. LITERATURE CITED Alcock, J. 1993. Animal Behavior: An Evolutionary Approach. Sinaeur Associ¬ ates, Inc., Sunderland. MA. Bednarz, J.C. 1988. Cooperative hunting in Harris’ hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus). Science 239: 1525- 1527. Gill, F.B. 1995. Ornithol¬ ogy. W.H. Freeman and Company, New York, New York. Hamilton, W.D. Geom¬ etry for the selfish herd. Journal of Theoretical Biology 31 : 295-3 1 1 . Tinbergen. N. The Study of Instinct. Oxford University Press, London, England. -RICHARD K. KESSLER, JASON R. HOLLAND. BETHANY S. TURNER. Department of Biology, Campbellsville University, # 1 University Drive, Campbellsville, KY 42718. An American Swallow-tailed Kite in Boone County, Kentucky ; On August the 16th, 1997, an American Swallow-tailed Kite was seen in Lawrenceburg, Indiana by Craig Harder. During further observation of this bird on this date, I witnessed the kite fly across the Ohio River and circle over the hills of Boone Co., KY I returned to observe the kite in Indiana on a number of occasions during the next two weeks. I saw the kite cross into Kentucky for brief periods of time during several of these observations. I returned to Lawrenceburg on the 29th and 30th but did not see the bird. I later learned that it was seen in Petersburg, KY on these dates. I observed the kite in Petersburg, flying low over the park by the boat ramp, on September 3rd. The next day I saw the bird in Lawrenceburg, while viewing from the Kentucky side. During most of these periods of observation the kite soared overhead, catching large insects in its talons. In order to feed, the kite would bend its head down to eat while still gripping the insect in its feet. On many of the occasions when it would catch an insect, another insect would disattach from the captured insect and fly off, apparently unharmed. The kite was apparently seizing dragonflies in the act of mating. The kite was also observed snatching cicadas from cicada killer wasps (Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr,, personal communication). I never did see the bird at rest, although several other observers mentioned see¬ ing the kite perched in cottonwoods on the Indiana side. Some observers also men¬ tioned seeing the kite dip low over the river in order to get a drink of water while on the wing. The kite seemed equally at home over the open fields along the Indi¬ ana Hood plain and the wooded hills of Kentucky. It was often in close proximity to small groups of Black and Turkey Vultures, sharing the same favorable wind THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 1998 25 currents. On several occasions the Turkey Vultures appeared to play with the kite, nearly brushing wings at one point. A resident pair of kestrels, which were also partaking in the feast of cicadas, attempted to drive off their overgrown cousin, but with little effect. An Osprey circling with the kite afforded an excellent size com¬ parison, scaling down my previous impression, which had been magnified by the effect of the kiters vivid black and white plumage. This beautiful raptor afforded many hours of up close viewing to dozens of birders during the several weeks that it was present. To watch its effortless flight was a true lesson in poetry in motion, drawing many an “oohN and "aw" from its appreciative audience. On weekend mornings there was an almost carnival atmo¬ sphere, with Ron Austing selling framed photographs of the kite, while the feath¬ ered celebrity soared overhead (Jay Stengert personal communication), This bird may have been present several weeks prior to August 16th according to workers at the nearby Lawrenceburg Seagram’s Plant. Lee McNeely first ob¬ served the kite in Kentucky (while in KY ) on September 1 st. The kite was last seen in Petersburg on September 7th by Joe and Kathy Caminiti. The American Swallow-tailed Kite was a summer resident along the Ohio River during the 19th century. John James Audubon observed a nesting pair with four young at the Falls of the Ohio in 1820. The most recent previous sighting in Ken¬ tucky was in August of 1875 when Nelson observed numerous kites snatching stranded grasshoppers from Hooded cottonwoods near the mouth of the Ohio River. (The Birds of Kentucky, Mengel, 1965) Hopefully, it will not take another one hundred years before this elegant raptor once again soars over the river valleys and hills of the Bluegrass State. --Frank Renfrovv, 61 1 South O'Fallon Ave, Bellevue. KY 41073 26 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 SIXTH REPORT OF THE KENTUCKY BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE Lee K. McNeely, Secretary This report is the sixth from the KentuckyBird Records Committee (hereafter KBRC), and covers actions completed during the calendar year 1997. Members serving on the committee during this period were Blaine Ferrell, Wayne Mason, Lee McNeely, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., and Anne Stamm. The stated purpose of the KBRC is to determine the validity of records of rare birds within Kentucky, maintain the documentation for these records, and to publish a summary of the committee’s deliberations. In 1 997 there were two rounds of circulation through the KBRC consisting of 1 6 individual records. Fifteen of these were finalized, while one remains unresolved at this point. Accepted records: Egrettci tricolor. TRICOLORED HERON. [#96- 1 0] May 16-18,1 996, Outer Loop Landfill. Jefferson County (PB.MM.BPB) [first Kentucky record documented by photograph]. Eudocimus albus. WHITE IBIS. [#97-2] September 16, 1993, Barren River, War ren County (DR). Chen rossii. ROSS’S GOOSE. [#97-3] April 12, 1996, McElroy Lake, Warren County (DR). Chen rossii. ROSS’S GOOSE. [#97-7] March 7, 1997, Minor Clark Fish Hatch ery, Rowan County (FB.LK). Anas cyanoptera. CINNAMON TEAL. [#97- 1 1 ] April 19-22,1 997, McElroy Lake, Warren County (BPB) [photographed], Aythya nigricollis. TUFTED DUCK. [#97-9] April 5-15. 1997, Transient Lakes. Warren County (MA.RD. DEJE.GH.RH.CL. BPB) [photographed, first Kentucky record]. Elanoides forficatus. SWALLOW-TAILED KITE. [#97-12] August 16September 7, 1997, Petersburg. Boone County (FR) [photographed, first documented Ken tucky record in over 100 years]. 27 1 998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Coturniceps noveboracensis. YELLOW RAIL. [#97-4] October 17-28, 1996, McElroy Lake, Warren County (DR, several other observers). Porphyrula martinica. PURPLE GALLINULE. [#96-8] April 12-May 9, 1996, Jackson, Breathitt County (KB,BC) [photographed], Philomachus pugnax. RUFF [#97-10] April 17-18, 1997, Henderson County (BPB) [photographed, fourth Kentucky record]. Tyrannus verticals. WESTERN KINGBIRD. [#97- 1 3] August 30-3 1 , 1997, Lake #9, Fulton County (DR, MB, BPB, several observers) [fourth Kentucky record]. Troglodytes troglodytes. WINTER WREN. [#96-9] July 9, 1996, Big Black Moun¬ tain, Harlan County (TO) [third summer record for Kentucky]. Pipilio maculatus. SPOTTED TOWHEE. [#97-1] December 31, 1989 - February 4, 1990, Meade County (BPB.RC) [photographed, circulated through KBRC since this bird is now accepted as a separate species, first Kentucky record]. Observers: Michael Autin (MA), Pat Bell (PB), Mark Bennett (MB), Fred Busroe (FB), Katie Busroe (KB), Bryan Combs Jr. (BC), Richard Cassell (RC), Roseanna Denton (RD), Diane Elmore (DE), Jackie Elmore (JE), Gay Hodges (GH), Rich¬ ard Healy Jr. (RH), Lewis Kornman (LK), Celia Lawrence (CL), Mark Monroe (MM), Thomas Oliver (TO), Brainard Palmer-Ball Jr. (BPB), Frank Renfrew (FR), David Roemer (DR). Rejected records: Phalacrocorax brasilianus. NEOTROPIC CORMORANT. [#97-5] November 24, 1996, Freeman Lake, Elizabethtown, Hardin County [Documentation not suffi¬ cient to rule out Double-crested Cormorant]. Buteo re galls. FERRUGINOUS HAWK. [#97-8], January 1 , 1997, Daviess County [Documentation not adequate to rule out light-phase or albinistic Red-tailed Hawk], The current official Kentucky list now stands at 354 species (12 of which are by sight only), with the Tufted Duck and Spotted Towhee added since the last report, and the Swallow-tailed Kite moved from the extirpated to the current list. The Ross’s Goose has been dropped from the review list. All records of birds on the mandatory review list should be sent to the Secretary of the KBRC, Lee McNeely, P.O. Box 463, Burlington. Ky. 41005. 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 NEWS AND VIEWS Springfest/Wildflower Weekend 350 flower lovers can't be wrong. That’s how many traipsed through Cedar Sink,Turnhole Bend, the Big Woods, and Ugly Creek last year during Mammoth Cave National Park’s Springfest/Wildflower Weekend. Come again April 18-19 and see thesestrange places and spectacular wildflowers they harbor. Experts from The Nature Conservancy, Kentucky State Nature Pieserves Commission and oth¬ ers in the know will lead the way, pointing out spring blossoms and birds. Many other activities will take place at the Mammoth Cave Hotel. Get your free bro¬ chure on all Springfest and Wildflower Weekend activities - call the park at (502) 758-2254 and ask for Vickie Carson at extension 21 . Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, theKentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at 502-894-9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money (i.e.,up to $500) to assist them in conducting research on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: Ferrebr@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form K.O.S. Spring Meeting The K.O.S. Spring meeting is scheduled for 24-26 April at General Butler State Park. Please mark your calendars and plan on attending and participating in the Friday evening program. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) Vol.74 MAY 1998 No. 1 IN THIS ISSUE WINTER SEASON 1997, Fred Busroe . 31 BREEDING BIRD SURVEY OF THE BIG SOUTH FORK NATIONAL RIVER AND RECREATION AREA, KENTUCKY AND TENNESSEE, 1994-1996, Stephen J. Stedman . 35 KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY ANNUAL SPRING MEETING . 43 KENTUCKY MIDWINTER EAGLE SURVEY, 1998 STATE SUMMARY Laura S. Burford . 45 FIELD NOTE . 47 NEWS AND VIEWS . 48 30 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 74 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corn Secretary . Treasurer . Recording Secretary . Councillors: Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden . Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough .... David Roemer, Bowling Green Kathryn Clay, Louisville . Retiring President . . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Marilee Thompson. Owensboro . Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely PO. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Mark Bennett, Russellville, KY . 1997-1999 . 1997-1999 . 1998-2000 . 1998-2000 . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00: Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W.) Stamm Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely PO. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER The K.O.S. thanks our staff artist, Ray Harm, for the excellent print of Northern Mockingbirds, Minins polyglottos. ALBERT R. MANN LIBRARY 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER THE WINTER SEASON 1 December 1997 - 28 February 1998 Fred M. Busroe iTHACA, NY 1485d The weather was mild during the period. There was a major snow fall, Febru¬ ary 4 and 5 that covered much of the state, with Louisville receiving 22+ inches and Lexington getting 17 inches. As a result of the mild conditions the number of waterfowl and other winter visitants was below normal numbers. A few interesting gulls did show up in western Kentucky. Abbreviations - AJP = A.J. Jolly Park, Campbell County; Bar = Barren County; Bel = Bellevue, Campbell County; Bern = Bernheim Forest, Bullitt and Nelson counties; BBL = Big Bone Lick State Park, Boone County; Btl = Butler County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; Camp = Campbell County; Can = Caneyville, Grayson County; CCSP = Carter Caves State Park, Carter County; CHC = Cave Hill Cemetery, Jefferson County; CL#1 = City Lake # 1 , Madison ville, Hopkins County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Rowan County; Cra = Craig’s Creek, Gallatin County; Day = Dayton, Campbell County; Falls = Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County; Gen = Geneva, Henderson County; Ghe = Ghent Power Plant, Carroll County; Hard = Hardin County; Hart = Hart County; Heb = Hebron, Boone County; Jon = Jonathan Creek, Marshall County; KL = Kentucky Lake, Marshall County; LBar = Lake Barkley, Lyon County: LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; Mar = Markland Dam, Gallatin County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; Melb = Melbourne, Campbell County; New = Newport, Campbell County; ORB = Ohio River Basin, Jefferson County; Ott = Otter Creek Park, Meade County; Pea = Peabody WMA, Muhlenberg County; Pet = Petersburg, Boone County; Pro = Prospect, Jefferson County; RNWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; Saw = E.P.’Tom” Sawyer State Park, Jefferson County; SWMA = Sauerheber Unit of Sloughs WMA, Henderson County; SC = Short Creek, Grayson County; Smi = Smithland Dam, Livingston County; Ten = Ten Broeck Subdivi¬ sion, Jefferson County; Tow = Towhead Island, Jefferson County; War = Warsaw, Gallatin County. RED-THROATED LOON - One immature present at Smi from December 1 1 through January 1 (DR). Common Loon - One on December 1 at Mel (FR); one on January 12 at CRL (FB); two on February 1 at CRL and one on February 24 at AJP (FR) Pied-billed Grebe - 1 1 on December 13 at Falls (JP); 8 on December 6 and 4 on January 1 at Mel (FR); 14 on January 20 at LPew (JWH). Horned Grebe - Two on December 13 at Falls (JP); 3 on December 13 at Mel (FR); 2 on December 1 5 at LPew and one at CL#1 (JWH); 2 on December 22 at New (FR). EARED GREBE - One present from December 2 to 26 and 2 from December 26 through January 1 at Smi (DR). American White Pelican - 85 on February 24 at LBar (DR). Double-crested Cormorant - Five on December 6 and one on January 14 at Mel (FR). THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 32 Vol. 74 Great Blue Heron - One in Hart on December 2, 3, and 8 with one in Bar on December 4 and January 8 (MS); 3 on December 15 at LPew (JWH); 3 on February 22 at Gen (MH. JP). Great Egret - One on February 8 and February 13 at LBar (DR). Tundra Swan - One on January 16 at Green River, Btl (DR). Greater White-fronted Goose - One on December 14 at Jon (DR); 6 on January 3 at CEL (LMc); 37 on January 18 at RNWR (DO). Snow Goose - One white phase on February 16 at Heb (LMc). Canada Goose - 300+ on December 1 2 in east Hard (JP); 25 on December 30 at Can (JP); 15 at LPew and 22 in Mad on January 28 (JWH); 500 on February 2 at SWMA (MH, JP); 17 in mid-February and 2 building a nest on Febru¬ ary 24 at Ten (S). Wood Duck - One male on January 3 1 at MCFH (FB); one male on February 16 at Pet pond (LMc). Green-winged Teal - One on January 2 at Day (FR); one on February 22 at SWMA (MH. JP). American Black Duck - 30 on January 13 at Mel (FR). Mallard - 6 on January 6 and 5 on February 5 in Bar (MS); 1 20 on January 1 1 at Mel (FR); 40 at Dozier Lake and 28 at CL#1 on December 26 (JH); 120 at Edgewood and 170 at Cold Springs, Kenton County on January 21 (FR). Northern Pintail - One on December 21 at Falls (DO); 7 on January 13 at Mel (FR). Northern Shoveler - A few present throughout the period at KL and LBar (DR). Gadwall - Nine at CL#1 and 7 at CL#4 on December 26 (JWH); three from De¬ cember 27 to January 3 at CEL and 4 on January 3 at Pet (LMc). American Wigeon - 6 at CL#1 and 7 at CL#4 on December 26 (JWH); 1 3 on January 3 at Pea (DO). Canvasback - 22 on December 15 at LPew (JWH); one male on January 1 at Mel (FR); 500+ on Febuary 8 at LBar (DR). Redhead - Three on December 21 at ORB (DO); two on January 3 at CEL (LMc). Ring-necked Duck - 2 on December 26 at LPew (JWH); approximately 99 on January 3 at Pea (DO). Greater Scaup - 300 on February 24 on LBar (DR). Oldsquaw' - One on January 4 at Tow (DO). Black Scoter - 2 on December 1 1 at Smi (DR). Surf Scoter - One on December 6 and 1 3 at Mel (FR); one at each of the following sites: Bar on December 1, Smi on December 1 1 and Falls on December 1 1 until January 21 (DR). Bufflehead - 4 to 12 during the period at LPew (JWH). Common Merganser - Two on January 10 at Pro, one male on January 25 at Mel and 3 females on February 7 at AJP (FR). 33 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Red-breasted Merganser - Two on December 22 at New and 12 on December 28 at Mar (FR). Ruddy Duck - Two from December 2 to January 3 at CEL (LMc); 2 on December 6 at Mel (FR); present at LPew with a high of 27 on January 20 (JWH). Black Vulture - Good numbers wintered at EBP and at Ghe (LMc); one on Janu¬ ary 1 in Camp (FR). Bald Eagle - An adult on December 20 at War (LMc); two to three present at MCFH during the period (FB). Northern Harrier - One on January 10 at Pro (FR). Sharp-shinned Hawk - One in Bar on December 3 and two on February 2 with one on February 27 in Hart (MS); one on December 13 in Bracken County and one on December 23 in Day (FR). Cooper’s Hawk - One on December 17 in Bel, one on January 1 at Melb and 2 on January 11 in Camp (FR); one on February 11 in Bar (MS); one on January 21 at Day (FR). Golden Eagle - One adult on January 17 at Bern (DO); one immature on January 21 at Bern (DR). Prairie Falcon - One on December 16 at RNWR (DR). American Kestrel - Four on December 13 in Bracken County (FR). Wild Ttirkey - 15 on December 27 in Robertson County (FR); ten on February 1 1 in Hart (MS). Sandhill Crane - 63 on December 3, 65 on January 2, and 350+ on February 2 1 in Hart (MS); a total of 515 in five groups on December 31 at CHC (DO); one on January 31 at MCFH (FB). Least Sandpiper - 4 on December 30 at Jon (DR). Laughing Gull - One adult present on 10 dates through February 8 at KL and LBar (DR). Franklin’s Gull - One adult on February 8 at KL (DR). Bonaparte’s Gull - 500 on December 6 at Mel (FR); 100 on December 20 at Cra (LMc); 100 on December 28 at Mark (FR); 8 on January 9 at CRL (FB); 12 on February 12 at MCFH (FB). Ring-billed Gull - 85+ on December 3, 85+ on December 4 and one on December 29 in Bar (MS); 300 on December 6 at Mel, 500 on December 28 at Mar and 300 on January 1 at Mel (FR); 200 on January 9 at CRL (FB); one on January 28 at LPew (JWH). Herring Gull - Three on January 9 at MCLH (FB); only one on February 24 at LPew (JWH); 2 on February 26 at MCFH (FB). Thayer’s Gull - At least 3 from December 14 to February 24 at KL and LBar (DR). ICELAND GULL - One first-year bird present on February 6 at LBar (DR). Lesser Black-backed Gull - At least 2 on five dates between December 14 and February 24 at Smi and LBar (DR). 34 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 GLAUCOUS GULL - One on January 4 at Louisville Water Company basins, Jefferson Co. (DR). Forster’s Tern - 10 on December 2 at Jon and 1 on February 18 at Bar (DR). Short-eared Owl - Six on January 3 at Pea (DO). Red-headed Woodpecker - Two immatures on December 20 at Ott (DO). Horned Lark - Four on December 10 at Mar (FR). American Crow - Extremely large roost in northern Kentucky and Cincinnati area. Estimated roost near Day was in excess of 1 000 with an estimated 29,000+ in the Taft and Columbia Parkway area of Cincinnati, Ohio. Many of these spent the day foraging in Kentucky before crossing to Ohio (FR). Red-breasted Nuthatch - Three on December 27 near BBL (LMc); 10 on Decem¬ ber 29 at New (FR); one to two at feeder during the period in Mad (JWH). White-breasted Nuthatch - Eight on January 30 at CCSP (FR). Brown Creeper - One on December 20 at Ott (DO). Winter Wren - One on January 3 at Pea (DO). Hermit Thrush - Two on December 20 at Ott (DO). Eastern Bluebird - 40 on December 13 in Bracken County (FR). Brown Thrasher - One observed more than 20 times during December through February at Ten (S). Loggerhead Shrike - One on January 1 8 near Water Valley. Graves County (DO). Palm Warbler - One in Warren County on February 26 (DR). Pine Warbler - One on December 28 near BBL (LMc). Eastern Towhee - One on December 5 and one on December 30 at SC (JP) American Tree Sparrow - Eight on December 31 at Saw (DO). Chipping Sparrow - Present through the period in Warren County with a high of 13 on February 5 (DR). Savannah Sparrow - Three on January 3 at Pea (DO). Le Conte's Sparrow - One on December 17 at RNWR (DR). Fox Sparrow - One in Mad December 2 and 4 (JWH). White-throated Sparrow - High numbers of 30 on February 5 and 25 on Febru¬ ary 6 at Mad (JWH); numbers were lower than normal at Ten (S) . White-crowned Sparrow - No observations during the period at Ten (S); a total of 5 birds in December and January at SC, numbers well below normal for this area (JP). Dark-eyed Junco - Four on December 3 at SC. noticeably low numbers this winter (JP). Lapland Longspur - Approximately 300 on December 16 at RNWR (DR); 3 on January 18 at RNWR (DO) Rusty Blackbird - Three on February 16 at Pet (LMc); a high number of 7 on February 27 in Warren County (DR). Purple Finch - One on December 20 at Ott (DO). Pine Siskin - 12 on December 31 and 10 on February 15 at CHC (DO); large I W,X _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 35_ numbers during the season at feeder in Mad with a high of 92 on December (JWH). Evening Grosbeak - Five on December 7 at Feeder in SC (JP). Contributors - Fred Busroe (FB), James W. Hancock (JWH), Mary K. Harrel (MH), Fee McNeely (FMc), Darrin O'Brien (DO), Joyce Porter (JP), Frank Renfrow (FR), David Roemer (DR), Anne Stamm (S), Mitchel Sturgeon (MS). — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351. Corrigenda. The following are corrections for the Fall Migration, 1997 seasonal report: Craig’s Creek is in Gallatin County, Mosely’s Pond is in Fogan County, Red-necked Grebe by DR was November 23, the White Ibis was observed on August 30, the Buff-breasted Sandpiper was observed at Faketon in Carlisle County, the 7 Feast Terns on October 18 at Jon should be Feast Sandpipers, delete the 35 Tittle Blue Herons in Mars on October 19 and delete Piping Plover in Mars on November 23, all records of the Olive-sided Flycatcher should be August, the Western Kingbird should be August 30-31, Swallow-tailed Kite should be 15 Au¬ gust to 7 September in the birds under review list. Breeding Bird Survey of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Kentucky and Tennessee, 1994-1996 Stephen J. Stedman During 1994-1996, 1 conducted breeding bird surveys (BBS) in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (BSFNRRA), Kentucky and Tennessee, following protocols recommended for BBSs conducted under the aegis of the Partner’s in Flight (PIF) program (Ralph et al. 1992). These protocols depart somewhat, as described below, from those recommended for BBSs conducted for the Breeding Bird Survey Office (BBSO), now located in the Biological Resources Division of the U.S. Geological Survey (Robbins, Bystrak and Geissler 1986). Baseline abundance data on breeding birds of this site have been previously pub¬ lished. Results of surveys conducted in the BSFNRRA are presented and dis- CllSSed Study Area The BSFNRRA comprises an area of about 50,600 hectares (125,000 acres) lying within McCreary County Kentucky and Fentress, Morgan, Pickett and Scott counties, Tennessee. I have described the area elsewhere (Stedman 1995) in rela¬ tion to a survey of spring Neotropical migrants found within its boundaries. Methods Three BBS routes were established totalling 100 stops to survey the relative abun¬ dance of birds residing within BSFNRRA. One of these routes (named “Kentucky” BBS and including 32 stops) was placed entirely within the Kentucky portion of the park, and two (named the “Divide” and “Bandy” BBSs and including 68 stops) 36 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 were situated in Tennessee. The proportion of stops in the two states is roughly equivalent to the proportion of the park within the two states. An effort was made to include stops representing all major habitat types of the park on routes being surveyed. In particular, fifteen stops within the gorge of the Big South Fork near Station Camp and along the old O&W Railroad bed were included, both part of the Bandy BBS. Since the BSFNRRA is managed as a natural area and contains few roads, establishing BBS routes that were representative of all habitat types was often imperfectly realized. Route stops probably overrepresent upland habitats such as oak forest and pine-oak forest while underrepresenting gorge habitats, such as riparian, hemlock, and mid- and upper -slope forest types. The Kentucky BBS route began about 0,5 km north of the Kentucky/Tennes¬ see state line on Divide Road and proceeded northeast to Peters Mountain Trailhead, including a total of seven stops disjunct from the remaining 25 stops. These dis¬ junct stops began near Beech Grove and ran west, included stops on Laurel Ridge Road and two side roads— Waters Cemetery Road and King Cemetery Road. The Divide BBS, comprising 34 stops, began at the BSFNRRA boundary on Divide Road approximately 0.5 km east of Tennessee Highway 1 54 and ran north¬ east to the state line with stops on two side roads— Fork Ridge Road and Twin Arches Road. The Bandy BBS had 34 stops in three sections that were disjunct from one another. The route began approximately 0.25 km east of West Entrance Trailhead on the dirt road running north of Tennessee Highyway 297 toward Bandy Creek Visitor Center: ten stops were included in this section. The second section, com¬ prised of 1 1 stops, began at the park boundary on the road to Station Camp and ended at the far end of the parking lot at Station Camp. The third section, com¬ prised of 1 3 stops, began at the park boundary on the road to the O&W bridge and ended at North White Oak Creek. Descriptions of exact locations of all stops surveyed during 1 994- 1 996 on these BBS routes are on file in the Resource Management Office of the BSFNRRA. Stops were placed 0. 5-0.8 km (0.3-0. 5 mi) apart. The lower limit is less than that recommended by P1F and BBSO, but it was perhaps justified in the BSFNRRA because birdsong probably does not carry as well in heavily forested areas as it does in more typical, less forested sites surveyed using roadside counts. Only a few stops were less than 0.65 km (0.4 mi ) apart, so probably few birds were counted more than once on surveys. At each stop a numbered, aluminum tag was attached to a tree trunk to mark the stop in a semi-permanent manner. During the second and third years of sur¬ veys, some tags had to be replaced because they had been removed or had become obscured as a result of annual tree growth. Three BBS routes were conducted by automobile during each of three years. Surveys were conducted in late May and June (Table 1). Each survey route was started about 15 minutes before dawn (circa 0600 EDT); this time period was rec¬ ommended by P1F protocols but is 15 minutes later than the start time recom¬ mended by the BBSO. All birds heard were counted at each stop regardless of 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 37_ distance and all birds seen within 0.4 km (0.25 mi) for five minutes; this counting duration was recommended by PIF but is longer than the three-minute duration recommended by the BBSO. Data collected during the first three minutes was separated from data collected during the last two minutes. Data presented herein (Table2) represent the number of stops at which species were detected for routes run with 5-minute stops, bu the data sheets used (and now on file at the BSFNRRA) would allow an interested researcher to isolate datarepresenting the number of i stops at which species were detected for routes run with 3-minute stops, if obtain ing those results were considered desirable. Following PIF recommendations, birds recorded within 50 m of the stop center were separated from those recored more than 50 m away. Weather data, including wind, sky and temperature condi¬ tions (Table 1 ), were noted at most stops, especially if weather conditions changed noticeably between stops. Every effort was made to conclude each survey route as early in the morning as possible, but the large number of stops on each route and the five-minute count¬ ing period usually caused surveys to end between 10:00 and 1 1 :()() a.m. EDT (i.e., after the finish time recommended by PIF and BBSO). Nocturnal species were surveyed separately from diurnal species. A route of i 18 stops (six in Kentucky and 12 in Tennessee) of 3 minutes each were run before (dawn on a night near full moon each year. Stop locations used for the nocturnal survey duplicated stops used for diurnal surveys of the Divide and Kentucky routes. These data were collected 03 12-0452 EDT 28 May 1994 (moon two days past full; sky clear; wind Beaufort 0); 0308-0501 EDT 15 June 1995 (moon full; sky clear; wind Beaufortl); and 0320-0440 EDT 1 June 1996 (moon full; sky mostly clear; wind Beaufort 3-4). Results Data for 65 species of birds were obtained during this three-year study (Tables 2 and 3), making it possible to judge relative abundance of species breeding in sur¬ veyed areas of the park. Ten species were common (i.e., registered on 30-100 stops/year), nine fairly common (i.e., registered 15-29.9 stops/year), 20 uncom¬ mon {i.e., registered on 3-14.9 stops/year), and 26 very uncommon (i.e., registered on 0. 1-2.9 stops/year). Thirty species of Neotropical migrants (46% of total spe¬ cies registered) were among those recorded on the survey, indicating the suitabil¬ ity of the BSFNRRA for breeding Neotropical migrants; seven were common, six fairly common, six uncommon, and 1 1 very uncommon. Discussion The value of the BBSs run in the BSFNRRA should increase over time if they continue to be conducted. Besides the value as a means of determining relative abundance of breeding species, the BBSs should also allow trends in population levels to be detected. This would be true in particular for common and fairly common species. For uncommon and very uncommon species, trends may not be detectible unless a larger number of stops were surveyed. J8 _ THK KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 Table 1 . Temporal and Meteorological Data for Breeding Bird Surveys Con¬ ducted in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Tennessee and Kentucky, 1994-1996. Variable Year Survey Name Kentucky Divide Bandy Date Conducted 1994 22 June 26/28 May 16 June 1995 22 June 31 May 15 June 1996 14 June 1 June 13 June Start Time (EDT) 1994 0623 0615 0600 1995 0557 0604 0555 1996 0556 0603 0611 End Time (EDT) 1994 1054 1035 1043 1995 1019 1035 1040 1996 1032 1010 1056 Start/End Sky* 1994 2/0 2/2 0/0 1995 2/2 0/0 0/0 1996 0/0 0/1 0/2 Start/End Wind** 1994 0/0 2/3 0/0 1995 0/0 1/2 1/1 1996 0/1 0/3-4 0/0 Start/End Temp. (°F) 1994 68/84 50s/70s 64/80 1995 60s/70s 60/75 50s/70s 1996 60s/60s 50s/60s 60s/70s *Sky codes: 0=clear, )=partly cloudy, 2=overcast. ** Wind codes: 0= 0.1). Similarly, a recent study in Virginia 66 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 found no apparent patterns among vireo nest sites in the density of vegetation above, below, and adjacent to nests (Hopp et cil. 1995). Although we found no differences between the characteristics of successful and unsucessful nests, vireos do appear to follow certain behavioral rules when selecting nest sites. These include: (1) build the nest within a meter or so of the ground, (2) build the nest at the end of a relatively long Y-shaped branch, and (3) provide some concealment for the nest. Other birds also appear to follow certain rules when choosing nest sites. For example, simple rules for selecting nest sites appearto be followed by Northern Cardinals (Filliater «/. 1994), Field Sparrows ( Spizella pusilla ; Best 1978), and White-crowned Sparrows ( Zonotrichia leucophrys, Morton et al. 1993). In none of these species, however, are specific behavioral rules associated with an increased probability of nest success. Many songbirds, particularly those like White-eyed Vireos that nest in edge habitats, suffer relatively high rates of nest predation and parasitism. This is not surprising because such habitats support a diversity of potential predators with a variety of searching strategies and, often, large populations of Brown-headed Cow- birds (Gates and Gysel 1978, Brittingham and Temple 1983). Some authors have suggested that this diversity of predators and parasites may essentially eliminate predictably safe nest sites. However, the apparent absence of such sites does not mean that the behavioral rules just described do not represent “an evolutionary response to selection for safe sites” (Filliater et al. 1994:766). Rather, these rules will probably be of limited benefit in predator-rich communities because different predators search in different ways and a site safe from one predator may be more vulnerable to a different predator. Although not quantified, our study site does contain a diversity of potential nest predators, including but not limited to black rat snakes ( Elaphe obsoleta), eastern chipmunks ( Tamias striatus), long-tailed weasels ( Mustela frenata ). Blue Jays, and Common Crows. Given this diversity of predators and the apparent ab¬ sence of safe nest sites, the appropriate strategy for species that suffer high rates of nest predation may be to limit defense of nests with eggs or young because defense carries the risk of injury or even death (Filliater et al. 1994). Thus, once a nest is lost to predation, vireos should attempt to re-nest as quickly as possible and, if needed, attempt to re-nest as many times as possible during the breeding season. White-eyed Vireos in our study population do appear to follow this strategy. Adults are weak defenders of nests, typically uttering a few vocalizations but not closely approaching potential nest predators (Ritchison,/??™. observ.). Once a nest is lost, female vireos can construct a new nest in 3 - 5 days and begin a new clutch shortly thereafter (Ritchison, pers. observ.). With a nesting season that extends from mid-April through late July, vireos can make at least three or four nesting attempts per breeding season. 67 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER In summary, only 1 4 of 3 1 vireo nests in our study successfully Hedged young and we found no differences between the characteristics of successful and unsuccess¬ ful nests. Our results, and those from studies of other edge-nesting species, sug¬ gest that many nesting birds, in an attempt to improve their nesting success, follow a few simple behavioral rules for placement of nests, exhibit weak defense of eggs and nestlings, and re-nest quickly after losing a nest to predation. Such a strategy may be best in areas with a wide array of predators and no predictably safe nest sites. Acknowledgments We thank Jeff Hawkins, Pari Beigi, and Eric Williams for assistance in locat¬ ing nests. Our work was supported by a Kentucky NSF EPSCoR grant (to Gary Ritchison). Literature Cited Best, L.B. 1978. Field Sparrow reproductive success and nesting ecology. Auk 95 :9-22. Best, L.B. and D.F. Stauffer. 1980. Factors affecting nesting success in riparian bird com munities. Condor 82:149-158. Brittingham, M.C. and S. A. Temple. 1983. Have cowbirds caused forest songbirds to de¬ cline? BioScience 33:31-35. Filliater, T.S., R. Breitwisch, and P.M. Nealen. 1994. Predation on Northern Cardinal nests: does choice of nest site matter? Condor 96:761-768. Gates, J.E. and L.W. Gysel. 1978. Avian nest dispersion and fledging success in field-forest ecotones. Ecology 59:871-883. Hopp, S.L., A. Kirby, and C A. Boone. 1995. White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus). In The Birds of North America, No. 1 68 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.)- The Academy of Natural Sci¬ ences, Philadelphia, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, DC. Lack, D. 1954. The natural regulation of animal numbers. Oxford Univ. Press, Oxford, England. Martin, T.E. and J.J. Roper. 1988. Nest predation and nest-site selection of a western popu¬ lation of the Hermit Thrush. Condor 90:51-57. Morton, M.L., K.W. Sockman, and L.E. Peterson. 1993. Nest predation in the Mountain White-crowned Sparrow. Condor 95:75-82. Robinson, S.K.1992. Population dynamics of breeding Neotropical migrants in a fragmented Illinois landscape, pp. 408-418. In Ecologic and conservation of Neotropical migrant landbirds (I.M. Hagan III and D.W.Johnston, eds.). Smithsonian Inst. Press, Washing ton, DC. 68 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 NEWS AND VIEWS Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at 502-894-9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S. Burt L.Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money (z'.e.,up to $500) to assist them in conducting research on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Re¬ search Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Ken¬ tucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: blaine.ferrell@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form. K.O.S. Fall Meeting The fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be held at Ken¬ tucky Dam Village State Resort Park 25-27 September. Please mark your calendars and join the fun and fellowship with like-minded birders. If you would like to make a presentation as part of the Friday evening program, contact Marilee Thompson, Vice President and program chairperson. 'LothT ft The Kentucky Warbler q Y mg IN THIS ISSUE THE SUMMER SEASON, 1998, Fred Busroe . 71 THE 75th ANNIVERSARY FALL MEETING OF THE K.O.S., Mark Bennett . 75 HISTORY OF K.O.S.. Ginny Kingsolver . 77 FIELD NOTES . 84 BOOK REVIEW, Blaine Ferrell . 96 NEWS AND VIEWS . 96 70 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 74 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corn Secretary . Treasurer . Recording Secretary . Councillors: Mark Bennett, Russellville .. Steve Kistler, Munfordville . Kathy Caminiti, Crittenden . Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough Retiring President . . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely PO. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Neil Eklund, Danville . 1996-1998 . 1996-1998 . 1997-1999 . 1997-1999 . Herbert Clay, Jr., Falls of Rough 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W.) Stamm and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely PO. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER Thanks to Wendell Thompson for this excellent photograph of, Ray Harm, our staff artist and keynote speaker at the 75th Anniversary Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. ! 1998 71 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER THE SUMMER SEASON, 1998 Fred M. Busroe The months of June and July had normal to above normal temperatures. Pre¬ cipitation was heavy during the early summer but most of the state was very dry during July. The transient lakes near Woodburn, Warren County, provided several notable records including White Ibis and Little Gull (a first for the state— under KBRC review). In far western Kentucky, Black-necked Stilts successfully nested in Fulton County for the first time since 1 993. Visits to Big Black Mountain, Harlan County produced several interesting warbler observations. The listing of species in this report is following the new A.O.U. checklist of North American Birds, 7th edition. Abbreviations -- All = Allen County; Bark = Barkley Da m, Livingston/Lyon coun¬ ties; Bern = Bernheim Forest, Bullitt/Nelson counties; BBS = Breeding Bird Sur¬ vey; BBMt = Big Black Mountain, Harlan County; CCSP = Carter Caves State Park, Carter County; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; Cro - Crocker Pond, Logan County; Dra= Drake’s Creek, Warren County, Falls = Falls of Ohio, Jefferson County; Fish = Fish Pond, Fulton County; Ful = Fulton County; Hart = Hart County; HB = Lower Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County; Isl = Island #8 Slough, Fulton County; Jes = Jesse Stuart Nature Preserve, Greenup County; KDam = Kentucky Dam, Livingston/Marshall counties; Kom = Koomer Ridge Campground, Wolf County; L#9 = Lake #9, Fulton County; LB ark = Lake Barkley, Lyon County; LBL = Land Between the Lakes, Trigg County; Lew = Lewis County; Log = Lo¬ gan County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; Mas = Masterson Park, Lex¬ ington, Fayette County; Open = Open Pond, Fulton County; Phil = floodplai^i slough north of Phillipy,TN, Fulton County; PWMA= Peabody Wildlife Manage¬ ment Area, Ohio/Muhlenberg counties; Petr = Petros, Warren County; Rock = Rockbridge Trail, Red River Gorge, Wolfe County; Silo = Silo Overlook, Trigg County; Swan = Swan Lake, Ballard County; Wal = Walton’s Pond, Warren County; West = Westvaco WMA, Carlisle County; Warn = Warren County; Wild = Wilder, Campbell County; Wood = Woodburn, Warren County; Yel = Yellowbank WMA, Breckinridge County. Common Loon - One at McEl through June 6 (DR). Pied-billed Grebe - One on June 21 in Ful (Hap); 3 at Isl with one on nest on July 3 (MB); observed at Cha through the period (fide DR) . American White Pelican - 51 on July 3 at L#9 (DO); 105 on July 3 in HB (MB); 55 on July 8 at Phil (JE, MM, CP); 65 on July 1 1 in Ful (CP). Double-crested Cormorant - Three on June 17 near levee in Ful (CP); one on June 30 at McEl (DR). Great Blue Heron - Good numbers, widely distributed west of LB ark during the season (CP); 12 on June 21 and 2 on July 18 in Ful (Hap); 61 on July 3 in HB (MB). Great Egret - Abundant in HB during the period (CP); 20+ on June 26 at Open (MM, CP); 12 on June 21 in Ful (Hap); 253 on July 3 in HB (MB); 20+ on 72 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 July 8 at Open (JE, MM, CP); 1 1 on July 1 7 at Wal (LD); 3 on July 18 in Ful (Hap); one on July 20-3 1 in Hart (MS); approx. 120 on July 29 at Open (MM, CP); observed from June 28 through the period at Wood (DR). Snowy Egret - One to three observed during the season in Ful (CP); 2 on July 4 in Ful (DO). Little Blue Heron - 20 on June 26 and 28 on July 29 at Open (MM, CP); 28 on July 3 at Isl (MB); 2 immatures at Cha on July 17 (LD); 6 on July 18 in Ful (Hap); a high number of 20 (all immatures) at Wal on July 20 (DR). Cattle Egret - Two to 8 observed irregularly during season west of LBar (CP); 1 5 on June 15 in All (DR). Black-crowned Night-Heron - Four at Falls on June 23 (MB); one at McEl/Cha area from July 3 through the period (DR); 50+ on July 13 at Bark (MB); 5 (1 adult and 4 immatures) on July 17 at Cha (LD). Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron - Observed from July 3 through the period with a high count of 17 on July 29 at Cha (DR, LD); 5 immatures at Cha on July 17 (LD). WHITE IBIS - One immature observed at McEl July 1 2; then at Cha from July 23 through the period (DR). Black Vulture - Seven observed on June 7 on BBS in Ful (Hap, CP). I Blue-winged Teal - Nested at McEl with a brood of 8 young seen on July 1 7 (DR). Northern Shoveler - One male in eclipse plumage on July 20 at McEl (DR). Ring-necked Duck - One male on June 3 at McEl and one female from July 26 to 29 at Cha (DR). Hooded Merganser - Several young observed during the period at McEl (DR). Ruddy Duck - One on June 14 at Petr (DR); 2 on June 20 at McEl (MB). Osprey - Three nests with young observed on July 1 : ( 1 ) 2 adults and 2 young near neat on west shore of LBark, Trigg Co., (2) 2 adults and 2 young near Silo, and (3) nest with 2 young LBL (CP) . Mississippi Kite - One on June 21 in Ful (Hap); only one to two observed during the period in HB (CP); one on July 3 in HB (MB); 2 on July 4 at Fish (DO). Bald Eagle - One subadult on June 23 at Open (CP) ; one immature on July 3 in HB (MB). Cooper’s Hawk - One on June 16 in Hart (MS); a pair raised 3 young at Lexing ton Cemetery (JW). Wild Turkey - One female with 6 young on June 1 1 in Hart (MS). Black-bellied Plover - One on June 14 and July 23 at McEl (DR). Semipalmated Plover - One on June 23 and July 23 at McEl (fide DR). Killdeer - 38 on June 21 and 100 on July 18 in Ful (Hap); approx. 1000 on July 23 at McEl (DR); 40+ on July 29 at Open (MM, CP). BLACK-NECKED STILT - Four pairs nested m Open with the following observations - 10 (8 adults and 2 young) on June 21(MM, Hap); 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 73. 9 (7 adults and 2 young) on June 26 (MM, CP,); 10 on July 3 (DO); approx. 19 on July 3 (MB); 14 (12 adults and 2 young) on July 8 (JE, CP); 2 (1 adult and 1 young) on July 21(Hap); 1 adult on July 29(MM, CP). Lesser Yellowlegs - 13 on July 17atCro(MB). Solitary Sandpiper - One on July 2 at McEl (DR). Willet - One to two observed from July 8 to July 18 at McEl (DR). Ruddy Turnstone - One on June 6 at McEl (DR); one on June 2 1 at Open (Hap). Sanderling - One on June 5 and July 20 at McEl (DR). Western Sandpiper - One on July 14 at McEl (DR); 2 on July 17 at McEl (MB); 3 on July 21 in Ful (Hap). Least Sandpiper - One on June 29 at McEl (DR); 4 on July 21 in Ful (Hap). White-rumped Sandpiper - One lingered at NcEl until July 20 (DR,DO); one at McEl on July 3 (DO). Pectoral Sandpiper - One on June 14 and July 3 at McEl (DR); 3 on July 29 at Open (MM, CP). Dunlin - One on June 8 at McEl (DR). Stilt Sandpiper - One on July 8 at McEl (DR); 9 on July 17 at McEl (MB); one on July 18 at McEl (DO). Buff-breasted Sandpiper - Two adults from July 24 to 26 at McEl (DR); 3 on July 27 at McEl (DO). , Short-billed Dowitcher - One on June 30 at McEl (DR); 4 at McEl and 2 at Cro on July 17 (MB). Laughing Gull - One on July 1 3 at KDam (MB). Lranklin’s Gull - One from July 1 1 to 20 at McEl (DR); one on July 15 at McEl (MB, DR); one on July 18 at McEl (DO). LITTLE GULL - One first year bird (video-taped) at McEl from June 9-17 (DR). Caspian Tern - Two on June 24 in Ful (CP); one on July 12 at McEl (DR); one on July 18 in Ful (Hap). Least Tern - One on June 12 at McEl (DR); 20 on June 2 1 in Ful (Hap); 30 on June 24 at Open, with several nests(CP); 40+ on June 25 at Open (ME, CP); 40+ on June 26 at Open (MM, CP); 1 2 on July 7 near Swan (CP); 2 on July 3 at HB (MB). Black Tern - One on June 15 and July 23 at McEl (DR); 5 on June 2 1 in Ful (Hap). Barn Owl - One immature at Yel on July 1 5 (MB, DR). Great Horned Owl - Two adults and 3 young heard on at least 20 occasions in Hart during the period (MS). Olive-sided Flycatcher - One on July 24 at Dra (DR). Acadian Flycatcher - Two on June 6 and 4 on June 7 at CCSP (FR) Bell’s Vireo -Three on July 3 at PWMA (DO). Blue-headed Vireo - A total of 6 on July 8 At BBMt (FR). Fish Crow - Nine on June 21 in Ful (CP); 3 on July 4 at West (DO) . 74 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 74 Bank Swallow - 200+ in colony on June 28 just south of Hickman, Fu 1 (MM, CP); 20 on July 28 at Open (JE, MM, CP); 6 on July 29 at Open (MM, CP). Red-breasted Nuthatch - One male singing on July 7 and a total of 5 including a pair feeding one young on July 9 at Rock (FR). Bewick’s Wren - One on June 10 in central Log (MB); one on June 12 in Log (DR). Veery - A total of seven were observed or heard on July 8 at BBMt (FR). Blue-winged Warbler - Two on June 8 at CCSP (FR). Northern Parula - 8 on June 7 at CCSP and 2 on June 10 at Jes (FR). Chestnut-sided Warbler - Two adults with one feeding a fledglinglon July 8 at BBMt and one immature on July 26 in Lew (FR). Black-throated Blue Warbler - An adult feeding a fledgling July 8 at BBMt (FR). Black-throated Green Warbler - Ten on July 7 at Rock (FR). Cerulean Warbler - Three on June 7 and 3 on June 10 at CCSP (FR). Worm-eating Warbler - Six at CCSP on June 5 and 7 (FR); 3 on June 23 at Bern (MB); one on July 26 at Lew (FR). Swainson’s Warbler - 4 at Rock and one at Kom on July 1 (FR ). Ovenbird - Many observations from June 5 - 8 at CCSP (FR); one on June 23 at Bern (MB). Louisiana Waterthrush - Five on June 7 at CCSP (FR). Kentucky Warbler - One on June 7 at CCSP (FR). Hooded Warbler - Nine on June 7 at CCSP and 10 on July 7 at Rock (FR). Canada Warbler - Five on July 8 at BBMt (FR). Blue Grosbeak - One male and one female observed on 1 8 occasions during June in Hart (MS); several observations near Wild including nest with 4 young (FR); two pairs observed in central Log throughout the season (MB). Dickcissel - One on June 12 and 6 on July 18 in Ful (Hap); 18 counted along road near Mad on June 25 (JH). Lark Sparrow - Two (a pair) on 27 July at Vance Road, Warn (MB, DR) that subsequently nested fledging three young on July 23 or 24 (DR). Grasshopper Sparrow - Five on June 27 in central Log (MB ). Henslow’s Sparrow - One in Ohio Co. on July 3 (DO). Dark-eyed Junco - A total of 1 1 including an adult feeding 2 young on July 8 at BBMt (FR). Bobolink - At least 6 nesting pairs at Mas (JW); several nesting pairs in Boyle Co. with adults observed carrying food (BK, JW). Contributors - Mark Bennett (MB), Hap Chambers (Hap), Lester Doyle (LD), Melissa Easly (ME), Joe T. Erwin (JE), James W. Hancock (JH), Bill Kimper (BK), Mike Miller (MM), Darrin O'Brien (DO), Clell Peterson (CP), Frank Renfrew 75 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ (FR), David Rocmer (DR), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Jim Williams (JW). -- UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 The 75th Anniversary Fall Meeting of the K.O.S. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, September 25-27 By Mark Bennett The 75lh anniversary Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society con¬ vened at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park on September 25, 1998. The meeting was called to order by President Wendell Kingsolver at 7:30 in the evening. Posters depicting the history of the Society, prepared by Kathy Cammiti and Lee McNeely, adorned the convention center walls. Prints by Ray Harm and photos of notable recent bird findings were also displayed in the hall. The program for Fri¬ day evening was highlighted by an historical overview of the Society presented by Ms. Ginny Kingsolver. The celebration of the 75lh anniversary of the organization continued with the reading of the names of past KOS presidents. Former KOS presidents in atten¬ dance were invited to offer a brief reflection or memory of KOS. Those former presidents in attendance were Ann Stamm, James Hancock, Clell Peterson, Herb Shadowen, Willard Gray, A. L. Whitt, Jr., Andy Uterhart, Blaine Ferrell, Fred Busroe, Jim Williams, Ginny Kingsolver, and Lee McNeely. Other features of the program on Friday evening were a slide presentation of “Notable Kentucky Bird Records” by Lee McNeely, a slide presentation of “Con¬ fusing Fall Warblers” in quiz format by Brainard Palmer-Ball Jr., and a video of some unusual species recorded at the Transient Lakes of Woodburn by Lester Doyle. On Saturday morning, Wendell Thompson took a group photograph in front of the park lodge at 7:45 AM. Field trips departed from the lodge at 8:00 a.m. for three locations. Society field trips explored the Land Between the Lakes, Hap Chambers leader, Kentucky Dam and Northern Lake Barkley, Brainard Palmer- Ball, Jr. leader, and Smithland Dam, Mark Bennett leader. An informal walk around the lodge was an alternative. KOS member, Rowena Cary, invited members to her nearby lakeside home for lunch. Several KOS members combined Rowena’s hos¬ pitality with birding and a beautiful view. Saturday evening’s program was highlighted by a lecture from renowned wild¬ life artist Ray Harm entitled “The Life of a Wildlife Artist". Mr. Harm enchanted the members with an account of his early days in art and other endeavors as well as his Kentucky experiences. Society business was conducted Saturday evening as well. The following were elected as officers for 1 999: Wendell Kingsolver, President, Marilee Thomp¬ son, Vice President, Mark Bennett, Recording Secretary, Brainard Palmer-Ball Jr., Corresponding Secretary, and Lee McNeely, Treasurer. Darrin O’Brien and Hap Chambers were elected as Councillors for two-year terms that run through the year 2000. On Sunday morning a single organized field trip lead by Hap Chambers de- 76 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 74 parted for Jonathan Creek at 8:00 a.m. The trip also included Blood River before ending at about 3:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon. Thus came the end of the 75th anni¬ versary meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society. A total of 122 species was tallied over the weekend. MEETING ATTENDANCE BOWLING GREEN: Lester Doyle. Blaine Ferrell, Elizabeth Ferrell, Marvin Russell, David Roemer, Joanie Roemer, Herb Shadowen and Jacky Shadowen BURLINGTON: Joe Caminiti, Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, Lee McNeely and Lynda McNeely CADIZ: Mabel Gray and Willard Gray CARLISLE: Ginny Kingsolver and Wendell Kingsolver CUNNINGHAM: MauricaToon COX’S CREEK: Dona Coates and Roger Coates DANVILLE: Ginny Eklund and Neil Eklund DYERSBURG, TN: Betty Leggett and Ken Leggett FALLS OF ROUGH: Kathryn Clay, Joyce Porter and Doralee St. .Clair GILBERTSVILEE: Rowena Cary, E.J. Conrad and Madelyn Conrad JAMESTOWN: Arlene Morton LEXINGTON: Phyllis Neal, Marie Sutton, Andy Uterhart, Gerry Williams and Jim Williams LOUISVILLE: Richard Cassell. Robert Dever. Rose Mary Johnson, Derrick Neese. Kim Neese, Doxie Noonan, Darrin O'Brien. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Martha S. Pike and Anne Stamm MACEO: Neal Hayden MADISONVILLE: James W. Hancock, Brenda James and Max James MAYFIELD: Helen Sullivan and Robert Sullivan METROPOLIS, IL: Donald Bennett and Joann Bennett MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe MURRAY: Hap Chambers, Mike Miller and Clell Peterson NEW ALBANY, IN: David Habermel and Jacque Habermel OWENSBORO: Bob Hast, Carolyn Hast, Janet Howard, Michael Kavolas, Young Kim. Marilee Thompson. Wendell Thompson, Carroll Tichenor, Doris Tichenor and Bill Tyler PADUCAH: Bernice Cadell, Bill Weber and Melinda Weber RICHMOND: Gary Ritchison. Tammy Ritchison, A.L. Whitt and Millie Whitt RUSSELLVILLE: Andrea Bennett and Mark Bennett SCIENCE HILL: Roseanne Denton SOMERSET: Linda McClendon and Margaret York UNION: Karen Stephens and Tommy Stephens UTICA: Brenda M. Eaden and Tony D. Eaden 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 77 BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE FALL MEETING 1998 Species observed at the Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park September 25-27 were as follows: Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Little Blue Heron, Cattle Egret, Green Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron, Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Green-winged Teal, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Lesser Scaup, Red-breasted Merganser, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, American Coot, Black-bel¬ lied Plover, Killdeer, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Sanderling, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Stilt Sandpiper, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Short¬ billed Dowitcher, Common Snipe, American Woodcock, Laughing Gull, Franklin’s Gull, Ring-billed Gull, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Caspian Tern, Forster’s Tern, Rock Dove, Mourning Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Great Homed Owl, Barred Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, East¬ ern Phoebe, Horned Lark, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Eastern Blue¬ bird, Swainson’s Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, American Pipit, Cedar Waxwing, European Starling, White-eyed Vireo, Solitary Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Tennessee Warbler, Northern Parula, Yel¬ low 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, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Common Yellowthroat, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Orchard Oriole, Balti¬ more Oriole, House Finch, American Goldfinch and House Sparrow for a total of 122 species. HISTORY OF K.O.S. 75th ANNIVERSARY, SEPTEMBER 1998 by Ginny Kingsolver This is a celebration to remember our roots as a Society, to recognize people who have helped make it such a vital organization throughout the state, and per¬ haps more importantly, to remember that it’s the vitality and integrity of members contributing today that keeps us alive and well. It’s the continuity from past to present to future that we celebrate this evening on KOS’s 75th anniversary. 78 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 More details of our history are on the posters that Kathy Caminiti and Lee McNeely have put together. This will go into a scrapbook to stay with our ar¬ chives. If you have things to add, they would be most welcome. I think we’ll begin with a history of how we were founded and by whom. As I looked for information about our beginnings, I found an article by Dr. Gordon Wilson, The First 40 Years of KOS in a 1963 Kentucky Warbler, also one by Albert Ganier, founder of the Tennessee Ornithological Society in 1915 and mentor to the founders of KOS. Then in 1973, our 50lh anniversary, our history was written by Evelyn Schneider and there was A Salute to KOS by Albert Ganier. In addition, Anne Stamm sent me her remembrances of the organization - so all of this comes from these sources, but mostly from Anne, to whom we owe so much. The Kentucky Ornithological Society was organized at Louisville, April 1923. For the early history, we need to refer to the writings of Dr. Gordon Wilson one of the three founders. Here is how it all began. He mentioned that at Christmas 1918, he supervised the first Christmas bird count (called a census) at Bowling Green and submitted the results to Bird Lore (later became Audubon Field Notes). He was delighted when he received his copy of Bird Lore in the Spring of 1919 and saw his “first ornithological publication.” He was further pleased when a few days later he received a visit from Albert F. Ganier, a civil engineer from Nashville, Tennessee, who had seen the census and had come to urge him to start a state organization in Kentucky. Wilson mentioned “While he was here, I took a short hike with him, the first time I had ever seen a real authority in ornithology. How¬ ever, at that time I did not know that there was any other active bird student in the whole state except me, but Mr. Ganier kept writing me about the advantages of having a state society and induced me to become a member of the Wilson Ornitho¬ logical Club (now called Society).” Mr. Ganier kept telling the Kentuckians of the advantages of a state society and how they could be of help. Early in 1923, Dr. Otley Pindar, a physician in Versailles, Mr. B. C. Bacon, civil service man of Madisonville, and Dr. Gordon Wilson, an English teacher of Bowling Green, had been exchanging letters and discussing plans for getting together to constitute a state ornithological society. Early in 1923 they "planned to meet at the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville on Friday of the week when the Kentucky Education Association (KEA) was in session.” Mr. Bacon was unable to attend, but he sent suggestions for a constitution that remained in force until the adoption of our present constitution in 1940, which was revised in 1991. Since they now had three members. Dr. Wilson stated that they “ “proceeded to elect or appoint Dr. Pindar as the oldest practicing ornithologist of the state, as our president; Mr. Bacon as Vice-president, and me (Gordon Wilson) as secretary treasurer.” Kentucky now had a state ornithological society founded that day in April 1923. There now were two state ornithological societies in the entire South: Kentucky and Tennessee. “There were less than a half dozen others in the entire country” at that time. The Louisville newspaper sent a reporter to cover the conference and gave the new society “much needed publicity." Dr. Wilson, as secretary-treasurer, began to write letters to prospective mem¬ bers and scheduled a full program for the first Spring meeting in 1924. At that 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 79 time, he was secretary of the Wilson Club, and asked that society “to accept the new state society as an affiliate.” Mr. Ganier was the president and arranged for the new club ”to become a part of that great Society at once.” The first meeting of the Society (KOS) occurred at Louisville in April 1924, with a rather lengthy program, including a bibliography of Kentucky Ornithology by Dr. Pindar (a paper unfortunately lost) and a discussion of the birds of the Bardstown region by Mr. Blincoe which included his own additions to the list prepared in the 1880’s by Mr. C. W. Beckham.” Fortunately, this paper was pub¬ lished later in The Auk, and according to Dr. Wilson, is “one of the basic studies of Kentucky Ornithology.” A joint meeting was held with the Tennessee Ornithological Society and the Wilson Ornithological Club at Nashville. The ten KOS members who were present “got our first glimpse of outstanding scholars in our field.” “The 1924 Spring meeting at Louisville began a series that ran regularly except for three years in World War II - until 1956, when this annual session was moved to Bowling Green.” The KEA gave KOS a small grant each spring to bring a speaker from some distance to lecture or show a movie on birds during the confer¬ ence. The teachers at the KEA meetings could avail themselves of this opportu¬ nity, especially the science teachers. In 1956 the KEA had to drop some organizations that didn’t really belong such as KOS, Kentucky Folk Lore Society, etc., perhaps for financial reasons. At that time KOS decided to assist Dr. Wilson at the Spring meetings with his study at the wet-weather lakes, near Woodburn and to visit the mouth of Gasper area and the area of Dr. L.Y. Lancaster’s cabin. Our headquarters there was the Lost River Motel, Bowling Green. Kentucky - 1956 to 1963. In the early years KOS gave an award to the member of the Kentucky Junior Academy of Science, writing the best paper on birds. The award was $5.00 and a year’s subscription to the Kentuckv Warbler. The winning paper was published in our quarterly magazine. “At the beginning of 1925, The Kentucky Warbler named for the only bird that bears the name of our state, made its meek and humble bow to the world. At that time and for some years afterwards, it consisted of 4 small issues of 4 pages each, but we followed pretty much the order that still prevails in our magazine”, The Kentucky Warbler. Now finishing its 74th volume and somewhat enlarged with issues averaging 16 to 24 pages each, it has had only six editors-in-chief: Gordon Wilson, Burt L. Monroe, Sr., Harvey B. Lovell, Anne L. Stamm, Herbert E. Shadowen and Blaine Ferrell. (We would like to give special recognition tonight to Anne, Herb and Blaine for their outstanding work over the years). Our quarterly publication is well known all over the country, and its “articles are abstracted in Biological Abstracts and other standard bibliographical publications.” We have many requests for reprints of various bird articles from all across the U.S. and from European countries. 80 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 Today the journal is mailed, in addition to members, to 23 libraries, colleges, and schools which are paid subscribers and to 29 state and national societies with whom an exchange of publications is maintained. We have complete back files of the Warbler. Our programs use our own talent and some of the outstanding ornithologists from neighboring states, also from ornithological groups such as the American Ornithologists’ Union, the Wilson Ornithological Society, Fish and Wildlife, etc. We encourage graduate students to give programs on their research and support them with our funds. Members share unusual sightings at these meetings. At the invitation of Elton Fawks, Illinois, Chairman of the Mississippi Valley Bald Eagle Investigation Winter Study, KOS cooperated with him from 1961-1979. This survey was expanded in 1979 by the National Wildlife Federation Raptor Information Center to include all 48 contiguous states. James Durell, Assistant Director, Kentucky Division of Game Management, was asked by the Raptor Cen¬ ter to coordinate the count in Kentucky. Durell invited the KOS, which had been taking a one-day count in the state for the past 19 years in cooperation with Mr. Fawks, to work with him in this project. The count now is part of a total nation¬ wide project rather than just the Mississippi River and its tributaries. KOS ac¬ cepted the invitation from Mr. Durell and is still participating in the counts in Kentucky. The count results are published in The Kentucky Warbler. The nationwide Breeding Bird Survey, conducted through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Resources, has been a part of KOS work since 1966 and is still ongoing. The Society has participated in the Nest Card Program in cooperation with the Laboratory of Ornithology, Cornell University since 1965. In 1948-1952 members in Louisville and Murray took part in counting birds in nocturnal Bight in both spring and fall as seen across the full moon through telescopes. Mr. Charles Strull, a member and also an astronomer, supervised the project. The information from numerous stations across the country was the sub¬ ject of a study by Dr. George H. Lowery, Jr. of Louisiana State University, which he published under the title A Quantitative Study of the Nocturnal Migration of Birds. In 1983, Dr. Russell Starr and his wife Faye, of Glasgow donated their 95 acre wildlife refuge, Brigadoon, to the Nature Conservancy. This refuge is to be man¬ aged by Western Kentucky University for wildlife research purposes through Dr. Herbert E. Shadowen and Professor Wayne Mason, members of KOS. The Summary of Occurrence of Birds of Kentucky , compiled by Burt L. Mon¬ roe, Jr. was a project by the KOS and according to Monroe, “it reflects the coop¬ erative effort of many members of the organization. In addition to reports dating back to the time of Audubon, records up through December 31,1 968 are included." 81 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER The holdings of the Society include three invested funds, one of which is the Endowment Fund, initiated with the bequest of Dr. Pindar, and augmented by pay¬ ments of life memberships. Another is a fund honoring Dr. Gordon Wilson for his devoted service to the Society known as the Gordon Wilson Fund for Ornithology. The income from this fund is to be used for certain specific purposes which is in The Kentucky Warbler 64:59, 1958. The third fund, the Avian Research Fund established recently in honor of Burt F. Monroe, Jr., has been supported by contributions from our own members and a generous annual contribution from the Beckham Bird Club. Publication of our observations is so much a part of who we are and what we do, I would like to mention some of them. The Mid- Winter Bird Counts taken by members since the beginning have been included in The Kentucky Warbler. The Seasonal Reports were added to The Kentucky Warbler since May 1978, compiled by Anne L. Stamm until January 1995 and now compiled by Fred Busroe. Ray Harm has graciously allowed us to use his art work for covers for The Kentucky Warbler for many, many years. Audubon’s Kentucky Birds including the Ivory-billed Woodpecker by R. Ha¬ ven Wiley. Alexander Wilson Visits Louisville by Gordon Wilson Birds of South-central Kentucky by Gordon Wilson Trail’s Flycatcher in Kentucky by Joseph Croft. Kentucky Birds , a Finding Guide by R. W. Barbour, Clell T. Peterson, Delbert Rust, H. E. Shadowen and A. L. Whitt, Jr. 1973 Birds of Kentucky by Robert Mengel, 1965 Birds of the Mammoth Cave National Park by Dr. Gordon Wilson. 1994 Sur\’ey of Kentucky Heronries by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Traci Wethington Annotated Check List - Monroe, Stamm, and Palmer-Ball. We still have cop¬ ies of this that you can purchase. Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas, 1996 by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Many of you have had noteworthy publications that should be in this list We have had a birding hot-line for the last several years and now we can pick up the latest sightings through e-mail. Our KOS Kentucky Bird Records Committee was established to give fair and expert consideration to the recording of unusual birds encountered in the state. This committee is to be commended for its excellent work.. We, as KOS members, are devoted to the preservation of bird habitat in our state, but our contribution is more in the way of identifying what is there, impor- 82 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 tant nesting and migratory stop-over territory, and leaving it to The Nature Con¬ servancy, Kentucky Nature Preserves Commission, and such to purchase and pre¬ serve this land. However, we have consistently supported environmental causes by letters and contact with state and federal policymakers. It’s a healthy organization that looks to the present and the future with con¬ temporary sightings and research, with ambitious, energetic and very knowledge¬ able birders. We are fortunate indeed to have all ages and levels of experience in KOS, but bound by a common desire to enhance the knowledge of birding through¬ out Kentucky. The fun that we have birding together is a joyous byproduct of belonging. KOS has always had an excellent mix of professional ornithologists and ama¬ teurs. The field trips at the meetings and otherwise are a great opportunity to hone our birding skills. The trained eyes of us all throughout the state make for invalu¬ able observations of the bird life and movements in Kentucky. We celebrate this great organization, its members and its contributions through¬ out our history, on this our 75lh birthday. PRESIDENTS OF K.O.S., 1923-1998 L. Otley Pindar 1923-25 Gordon Wilson 1925-29 T. Atchison Frazer 1930-33 Brasher C. Bacon 1934-38 BurtL. Monroe, Sr. 1939 Evelyn J. Schneider 1940-41 Harvey B. Lovell 1942-44 Victor K. Dodge 1945 Gordon Wilson 1946-47 Mabel Slack 1948 Mary Lou Frei 1949 Leonard C Brecher 1950-51 Virginia Smith 1952-53 Roger W. Barbour 1954 Ann L. Stamm 1955-57 Hunter M. Hancock 1958-59 James W. Hancock 1960 W. P. Rhoads 1961 A1 H. Mayfield 1962 Clell T. Peterson 1963 Howard Jones 1965-66 Herbert Shadowen 1967-68 Willard Gray 1969-70 Ray Nall 1971-72 Burt L. Monroe, Jr. 1973-75 A. L. Whitt, Jr. 1976-77 Andrew Uterhart 1978-79 Ramon lies 1980-81 PierreAllaire 1982-84 Blaine Ferrell 1985 Fred Busroe 1986-87 Jim Williams 1988-89 Virginia Kingsolver 1990-91 Lee McNeely 1992-93 Herbert Clay, Jr. 1994-95 Wayne M. Mason 1996-97 Wendell Kingsolver 1998-99 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 83 KOS Meeting Locations Spnng 69 - Bowling Geen 70 - Pine Mountain St. Park 71 - Mammoth Cave 72 - Bowling Green 73 - Louisville - 50th annual Locust Grove 74 - Bowling Green 75 - Bowling Green 76 - Mammoth Cave 77 - Mammoth Cave 78 - Mammoth Cave 79 - Mammoth Cave 80 - Bowling Green 81 - Barren River St. Park 82 - Rough River St. Park 83 - Barren River St. Park 84 - Berea 85 - Mammoth Cave 86 - Rough River St. Park 87 - Cumberland Falls St. Park 8 88 - Otter Creek Park 89 - Barren River St. Park 90 - Rough River St. Park 91 - Carter Caves St. Park 92 - Owensboro 93 - Barren River St. Park 94 - Rough River St. Park 95 - Mammoth Cave 96 - Lake Malone 97 - Barren River St. Park 98 - General Butler St. Park Fall 69 - Owensboro 70 - Cumberland Falls St. Park 71 - Ky. Dam Village St. Park 72 - Lake Cumberland St. Park 73 - LBL 74 - Cumberland Falls St. Park 75 - Ky. Dam Village St. Padc 76 - Carter Caves St. Park 77 - Rough River St. Park 78 - Danville, Ky. 79 - Owensboro 80 - Natural Bridge St. Park 8 1 - Kenlake St. Park 82 - Cumberland Falls St. Park 83 - Ky Dam Village St. Park 84 - Morehead 85 - Pine Mountain St. Park 86 - Kenlake St. Park 87 - Natural Bridge St. Park 88 - Ky. DamVillage St. Park 89 - Cumberland Falls St. Park 90 - Kenlake St. Park 91 - Pine Mountain St.. Park 92 - Ky. Dam Village St. Park 93 - Cumberland Falls St. Park 94 - Pennyrile St. Park 95 - Greenbo St. Park 96 - Kenlake St. Park 97 - Pine Mountain St Park 98 - Ky. Dam Village St. Park 84 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 Group picture of K.O.S. members prior to Saturday field trips /s. ^ > ; Photograph by Wendell Thompson FIELD NOTES New Nesting Records of Least Bittern Very little has been published concerning the nesting of Least Bittern ( Ixobrychus exilis) in Kentucky. In fact, documented breeding records have been recorded for only five counties: Carroll, Daviess, Hopkins, Jefferson, and Nelson (Kentucky' Breeding Bird Atlas 1996). Detailed in the following narrative are re¬ cently acquired breeding records for three additional counties: Henderson County - 1996 On more than a dozen occasions in the past ten years I have seen Least Bit¬ terns on the Sauerheber Unit of Sloughs Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in western Henderson County. A few of these observations have occurred in late spring and summer when the species has been suspected of nesting, but more substantial evidence of breeding has not been obtained. On 1 June 1996, I found at least two Least Bitterns on a part of the Sauerheber Unit referred to as “Hardy Slough.” but 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 85 I detected no evidence of nesting. However, on 5 July 1996, Richard Healy and I were birding at Hardy Slough, and in addition to 6-8 adult bitterns, we found a used nest, a nest containing eggs, and a recently Hedged young. The first nest was found in bulrushes ( Scirpus validus ) among a sparse growth of cattails ( Typha latifolia) about 1.0- 1.5 feet above shallow water near one of the levees that im¬ pound water into subunits. It was a bulky, somewhat circular platform with a shal¬ low, saucer-like depression on the top. The nest was about 8-10 inches in diameter and constructed of dead stems and leaves of herbaceous aquatic plants that were woven into the living vegetation. In the vicinity of this nest we encountered a downy young bittern with emerging pin feathers. The chick was on the ground among the vegetation, and assumed an imposing defensive posture when ap¬ proached. Within two hundred yards of the first nest, a second one containing four pale blue eggs was located in a thick patch of burreed ( Sparganium americanum). This nest was similar in form to the other and situated approximately 1.5 feet above the water. On a return visit to the area on 18 July 1996, it was empty and appeared disturbed, so I cannot be sure if the dutch of four eggs was complete. The number of adult birds in this area indicated that a loose breeding colony had been established there. This represents the first confirmed breeding of Least Bitterns in Henderson County. Much suitable wetland nesting habitat has been lost to conversion for agricultural use and settlement. However, the relatively recent advent of “moist soils management” as a technique for attracting waterfowl holds great promise for restoring an abundance of breeding habitat for several species of marsh birds that are considered rare in the state. Moist soils techniques typically involve the im¬ poundment of agricultural fields with small levees, forming shallow water areas that dry up seasonally to allow herbaceous aquatic and semi-aquatic plants to flour¬ ish. These areas are typically Hooded in the fall for waterfowl use. The Hardy Slough site has been the location of a number of interesting marsh bird observa¬ tions since it was expanded about five years ago. In 1996, the area also supported a nesting pair of King Rails ( Rallus elegems) (D. Chaffin, pers. comm.). Fulton County — 1998 On 17 June 1998, Deborah White, Nick Drozda and myself made a visit to Fish Pond, in western Fulton County. During our visit we encountered at least five adult Least Bitterns in an area of mixed herbaceous aquatic plants on the north¬ western margin of the wetland. This area is tilled in dry years, but was too wet to farm in 1997, and it was covered by a foot of water at the time of our visit in 1998. Four bittern nests were located in this area (two empty nests, one with two eggs, and one with four — bird Hushed from the last). Nests were 1-3 feet above the water and situated in patches of cattails (3) and bulrushes ( 1 ). All were constructed in typical saddle-like fashion from surrounding dead and living vegetation. This site was not revisited, but the water level remained high enough that nesting was likely successful. In addition to the bitterns, a calling Pied-billed Grebe (. Podilymbus 86 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 podiceps) was observed, along with an as-yet uncompleted nest. This represents the first confirmed nesting of Least Bitterns in Fulton County and the first of Pied- billed Grebe in Fulton County since the early 1900s. Muhlenberg County - 1998 In 1996, Dr. David Westneat, a University of Kentucky faculty member, noti¬ fied me of nesting Least Bitterns on a cattail-dominated marsh on the Sinclair WMA near Drakesboro, where he was conducting research on Red-winged Black¬ birds ( Agelaius phoeniceus). On 31 May 1998, Mark Bennett, David Roemer, and I explored a portion of this marsh by canoe and noted several Least Bitterns and a nest containing five eggs. The nest was situated about 1 .5 feet above the water in a patch of cattails and was similar in construction to the Henderson County nest described above. We also observed at least one Common Moorhen ( Gallinula chloropus) and several American Coots ( Fulica americana) on the marsh although neither nests nor young could be located. I returned to this site on 18 June 1998 and observed or heard young bitterns calling in the marsh at several places, and the nest then contained four downy young. Mark Bennett and I returned to visit this site by canoe on 23 August 1998 and again observed or heard young in several spots in the marsh. We also observed two Common Moorhens that had dull soft part colors (bills and legs). These birds were likely young raised in the marsh during the summer of 1998 that had already completed a post-juvenile molt, as adults would usually still have had bright red bills and yellowish legs at that time (B. Peterjohn, pers comm.). This represents the first confirmed nesting record of Least Bitterns in Muhlenberg County, and probably the second of Common Moorhen (on 3 1 August 1 995, three young were observed with an adult on another pond near the Paradise Steam Plant; W. James, Tennessee Valley Authority, pers. comm). --BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commis¬ sion, 801 Schenkel Lane, Frankfort, KY, 40601. Tufted Duck in Warren County While birding on a Field trip to the transient lakes in southern Warren County on 5 April 1997, we found a male Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) on a small pond near the junction of KY 240 and Meng Road, about a mile east of Woodburn. The bird was in the company of about 30 Lesser Scaup (A. affinis). All characteristics were consistent with a mature male: black rear end, chest and back, white sides. 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 87 and a dark head that showed a purplish sheen under some lighting conditions. The crown feathers were elongated into a shaggy crest that hung behind the head. The bill was long and gray, with a black tip and whitish subterminal band. Head shape was very rounded, and the bird typically appeared to be slightly larger than nearby male Lesser Scaup. In flight, the bird’s belly was whitish, and the wing pattern was similar to a scaup, with a bold white stripe extending through the secondaries and a grayish stripe through the primaries. The day was cloudy and very windy, but excellent views were obtained of the bird from our cars. Palmer-Ball obtained photographs which show the black back, bill pattern and long tuft on the rear of the crown. On the following day, Frank Fekel, a Tennessee birder, obtained better photographs, which clearly show all field marks. Copies of these have been deposited with Lee McNeely, Secretary of the Kentucky Bird Records Committee. The Tufted Duck remained on these small ponds for a couple of days, but when they began to dry up it showed up on nearby McElroy Lake, where it was observed off-and-on through 15 April 1997. This is the first documented record of Tufted Duck in Kentucky. The species is a regularly occurring vagrant on both coasts of North America, and there are inland reports on an annual basis. Tufted Duck sightings are always assessed for the possibility of being birds escaped from captivity; however, the potential for unnatural origin of this individual is limited by the unworn appear¬ ance of the bird’s plumage, its occurrence during a normal migratory period, and its association with other Aythya ducks. Also, hybrid individuals of Tufted Duck x Lesser Scaup have been reported from various locations, but the all-black back and long crown tuft of this individual would eliminate this possibility. — MICHAEL AUTIN, 6804 Cove Ct. Louisville, 40291, ROSEANNA DENTON, P.O. Box 222, Science Hill, 42553, JACKIE and DIANE ELMORE, 140 Crockett Lane, Bowling Green, 42101, GILBERT FOSTER, 6600 Hwy 100, Nashville, Tennessee, 37205, RICHARD HEALY, JR., 1 12 Deborah St, Radcliff, 40110, GAY HODGES, 336 Water’s Edge Rd. Somerset, 42501, CELIA LAWRENCE, 8618 Lakeridge Dr. Louisville, 40272, and BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, 40222. Northern Shovelers Nesting in Christian County The spring of 1997 was extraordinarily wet across most of western Kentucky, and the development of “transient” or “karst” lakes and ponds in the western High¬ land Rim was extensive. Probably the most significant cluster of transient lakes in this region is located north of the Fort Campbell Military Reservation in southern Christian County. Since first observing these ponds in 1991, I have referred to them collectively as “Morgan’s Pond”, a local name apparently applied to a body of water that used to be present along KY 117 west of US 41, but which now apparently does not hold water permanently. In 1997, these ponds were very ex¬ tensive and supported a diverse assemblage of migrant waterbirds similar to the lakes near Woodburn in Warren County. During the spring waterfowl migration. 88 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 74 Northern Shovelers (Anas clypeata ) were common at transient lakes throughout the region including Morgan’s Pond. On 8 May 1997, Jackie Elmore and I ob¬ served two males sleeping on a small pond north of KY 1 17, about 0.2 mile west of US 41. As much as any other dabbling duck. Northern Shovelers seem to be ob¬ served in pairs in spring, and those males that are unpaired are frequently observed in pursuit of females, sometimes in groups with other males. For this reason, it seemed odd that two males would be loafing in such a manner, and I remarked that it seemed possible that the birds might be nesting. In nesting species like Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and Blue-winged Teal (Anas discors), the late spring/early summer observation of lone or groups of unpaired males resting contently during the day is often an indication that females are nearby on nests. On 5 June 1997, 1 returned to Morgan’s Pond in search of lingering waterfowl and shorebirds, and I found a female Northern Shoveler with a brood of nine rela¬ tively small young on a larger body of water just NE of where the two males had been observed in early May. The young were conspicuous due to their relatively large, orangish-and-dark bills, and mottled, orangish-brown and dark brown plum¬ age. Nearby young Mallards and Blue-winged Teal were more yellowish-tan in overall ground color, and their bill pattern was more extensively dark. I returned to the area on 1 8 June and found six young still in the company of the female, as well as a second brood of 12 larger young on a nearby pond on the south side of KY 1 17. The brood of six young was again observed on 25 June, at which time they were approaching the size of the female. The two largest bodies of water at Morgan's Pond remained into mid-July, so one must assume that these young fledged suc¬ cessfully. This represents the first documented breeding record for Northern Shovelers in Kentucky, but the observation confirms in my mind that the species actually bred at or near McElroy Lake, Warren County, in 1989. That year small numbers lingered at the transient lakes in Warren County into late May, and two males were observed at McElroy Lake on 6 June (Palmer-Ball and Boggs 1991 ). Subsequently, a closely-associated group of four birds in female/immature plumage was observed at McElroy Lake on 17 July, at least a month before fall migrants should have arrived. In the absence of further evidence of nesting, this observation was not con¬ sidered conclusive, but it certainly must have represented a successful breeding attempt. Northern Shovelers typically nest to the north of Kentucky, but in the western Great Plains region they nest at a latitude similar to that of Kentucky (Dubowy 1996). In the midwestern states, nestings are essentially unknown south of the Great Lakes (Bohlen 1989; Duhowy 1996; Keller et al. 1986; Peterjohn and Rice 1 99 1 ; K. Brock, pers. comm. ). Likewise, there are a few summer records for Tennes- i 1998 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 89_ see (Robinson 1990), but none for nesting. Blue-winged Teal seem to nest predict¬ ably in Kentucky only when wet spring weather causes transient lakes in the High¬ land Rim region of southcentral and southwestern Kentucky to persist into the nesting season. Like the teal, it appears that shovelers also nest opportunistically under those circumstances, albeit more rarely. If this is true, it would seem that careful future study will result in additional nesting records. It should be noted that these observations serve as yet another indication of the uniqueness of the region's remarkable transient lakes. LITERATURE CITED Bohlen, H.D. 1989. The birds of Illinois. Indiana University Press, Bloomington, Indiana. Dubowy, P.J. 1996. Northern shoveler (Anas clypeata). In The birds of North America, No. 217 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.) The Academy of Natural Sci ences, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and The American Ornithologists= Union, Washington, D.C. Keller, C.E., S.A. Keller, and T.C. Keller. 1986. Indiana birds and their haunts. 2nd edition. Indiana University Press, Bloomington, Indiana. Palmer-Ball, B., Jr. and G. Boggs. 1991. Return of the Woodburn lakes, 1989: Parts I and II. The Kentucky Warbler 67:33-45, 60-66. Peterjohn, B.G. and D.L. Rice. 1991. The Ohio breeding bird atlas. Ohio Depart ment of Natural Resources, Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, Colum bus, Ohio. Robinson, J.C. 1990. An annotated checklist of the birds of Tennessee. University of Tennessee Press, Knoxville, Tennessee. -- BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commis¬ sion, 801 Schenkel Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601. 90 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 74 Nesting Activity of the Blue-headed Vireo in Wolfe County, Kentucky The Blue-headed Vireo (Vireo solitarius ) is presumed to be uncommon and locally distributed in Kentucky (Palmer-Ball 1996). This species was recorded nesting in the Black Mountain region in 1951 and 1952 (Mengel 1965), on Cumberland Mountain in 1970 (Croft 1971), and on Pine Mountain in 1972 (Palmer-Ball 1996). Nesting records show that in Kentucky, the Blue-headed Vireo nests at 549 to 975 m in elevation. The possibility that this species is expanding its range in Kentucky was postulated by Lacki and Baker (1998), in that a male Blue-headed Vireo was heard singing during breeding bird surveys in Robinson Forest, Breathitt County. During the summer of 1997, an active nest of a Blue-headed Vireo was lo¬ cated in the Red River Gorge National Geological Area (RRG) in Wolfe County, Kentucky. Further, a second but inactive nest was found nearby. This second nest appeared to be the remains of nesting activity that occurred in 1996. Subsequently, a more concerted effort was made in 1998 to monitor the nesting activity of this species in RRG. On May 18, 1998, a pair of Blue-headed Vireos was observed low in the canopy near a small thicket of rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum ) in RRG, approxi¬ mately 6 km north of Pine Ridge, Kentucky. After observing the activity of the female for several minutes, the nest was located 5 m above ground in the highest branch of the tallest rhododendron in the thicket. The branch was bent into a hori¬ zontal position, with the nest hung in the last fork of the branch near the tip. The female was observed sitting on the nest, which looked to be completed, for an interval of 15 minutes. By use of a mirror attached to a long pole, four eggs were observed in the nest later that day. The nest was revisited on May 22. The nest was intact, but no nest activity was observed. A reinspection of the nest contents showed the nest to be empty. A second, newly constructed nest was found the same day approximately 30 m west of the first nest in another rhododendron thicket. Although this second nest was identical in construction to the first, we observed no activity by the female in the vicinity of this nest. Regardless, the male continued to sing and defend the terri¬ tory around the nest; it is not uncommon for vireo (Vireo spp. ) males to construct multiple nests and have only one nest used (Ehrlich et at. 1 988). Later in the season, on June 19, a third nest was located within the same vicin¬ ity. We postulate that this represented a renesting attempt by the same pair, as the nest was only 25 m from the original active nest and 20 m from the inactive second nest. This third nest was situated 5 m above ground in an American holly (Ilex opaca). An inspection of nest contents showed four eggs present. On return visits on June 20, 24, and 30, the female was recorded incubating the same four eggs. On July 2, three young and an unhatched egg were observed. By July 9, no activity of adults or fledglings was observed at the nest, and there were no nest contents. 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 91 It takes approximately 14 days for young vireos to fledge from the time of hatch¬ ing (Ehrlich et al. 1988). Because the length of time from the last known date of incubation to the date when inactivity was observed equaled only 9 days, we hy¬ pothesize that this second nesting attempt was a failure with the young likely suc¬ cumbing to predation. These nests were located in forest comprised of a mix of coniferous and de¬ ciduous species. Dominant tree species were chestnut oak ( Quercus pinus), white oak ( Q . alba), red maple ( Acer mbrutn ), eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), eastern white pine ( Pinus strobes), and Virginia pine (P. virginiana). A dense understory of rhododendron was present. The nests were located in the bottom of an ephem¬ eral drainage, with the first nest within 4 m of the stream and the third nest 16 m from the same stream. The elevation of the site was estimated at 335 m, much less than previously recorded for this species in Kentucky (Palmer-Ball 1996). These data indicate three years of nesting activity by Blue-headed Vireos in Wolfe County, Kentucky. Although no successful nesting attempt was confirmed for this species, our observations along with a record of singing activity of male Blue-headed Vireos in another section of the Cumberland Plateau (Lack) and Baker 1998), suggest that this species is extending its breeding range northward in Ken¬ tucky. Funding for this study was provided by the E. O. Robinson Trust and the Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky. This investigation (KAES #98-09- 164) is connected with a project of the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station and is published with the approval of the Director. LITERATURE CITED Croft, J. E. 1971. Notes from Cumberland Mountain. Kentucky’ Warbler 47:23-25. Ehrlich, P. R. D. S. Dobkin, and D. Wheye. 1988. The birder’s handbook. Simon and Schuster Inc., New York, NY. Lacki. M. J., and M. D. Baker. 1998. Observations of forest-interior bird communities inolder growth forests in eastern Kentucky. Transaction of the Kentucky Academy of Science (in press). Mengel, R. M. 1965. The birds of Kentucky . American Ornithologists’ Union Monographs, No. 3, Allen Press, Lawrence, KS. Palmer-Ball, Jr., B. 1996. The Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas. University Press of Kentucky, Lexington, KY. -HENRY F. YACEK, JR., MICHAEL J. LACKI, Department of Forestry, Uni¬ versity of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546-0073. 92 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER The Woodburn Lakes — 1998 Vol. 74 The transient lakes near Woodburn in Warren County provided outstanding birding during the 1 998 season with 73 waterbird species being recorded. Although the lakes did not form until mid-April, resulting in a lowered number of waterfowl species ( 16 compared with 26 in 1997), they persisted through mid-summer pro¬ viding habitat for a good number of fall migrant shorebirds resulting in 28 species for the season (compared with 25 in 1997). Some rainfall in February and March allowed Walton’s Pond and a few puddles at McElroy to form briefly, accounting for records of observation early in the season. On 16 April, a severe weather system produced a tornado, softball-sized hail and 5+ inches of rain at Bowling Green. The lakes began filling on the 18th with the first shorebirds appearing then. By 27 April, 16 species had been recorded including Willet, Wilson's Phalarope, Western Sandpiper and both Dowitchers. Above average precipitation through the first week of May resulted in peak water levels, with McElroy covering 200-250 acres and Chaney approximately 150. On 1 6 May, 1 5 species of shorebirds were present, which represented the highest single day count. McElroy began falling slowly by the second week of May, but rainfall during the first three weeks of June helped to maintain water levels. On 23 June, McElroy had again risen to a level approaching its peak for the season. The water level at Chaney remained somewhat constant during this period. Lack of precipi¬ tation after the middle of June resulted in McElroy drying up by 23 July and Chaney by 25 August. Falling water levels at Chaney produced excellent habitat for waders late in the season. Present on 17 August were at least 70 Great Egrets, 10 Little Blue Herons, several Black-crowned and Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, 20+ Great Blue Herons and several Green Herons. Interestingly, immature Yellow-crowned Night- Herons were present in good numbers at Chaney with a high of 17 on 29 July, but no adults were observed during the period. The most significant records of observation for 1998 include a Little Gull, which was a first for the state. This bird, in first year plumage, remained at McElroy for 9 days, to the delight of birders. Present again this year were both Laughing and Franklin’s Gulls. An American White Pelican was present for one day as was an adult Glossy Ibis. An immature White Ibis was seen circling McElroy on the afternoon of 12 July, but left in a westerly direction flying toward Chaney. An immature White Ibis, (probably the same bird), was discovered at Chaney on 22 July and remained until 7 August. Two Eared Grebes in breeding plumage were observed presenting twigs or grass picked from the lake bottom to each other on 6 May. A female Red-necked Phalarope was present on the same day. The only spring observation of Baird's Sandpiper was of a single bird on I May, substantiating the rarity of this species at this season. An extraordinary flock of 1 7 Whimbrel put in a one day appearance on 19 May. A very early pair of Sandhill Cranes was present for three days beginning 30 August in a corn stubble field adjacent to Petros Pond. 93 1998 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Although the total number of individual birds present on any single day prob¬ ably did not approach the levels of 1 997, there were impressive numbers of several species recorded in 1998. On 23 May, Diane Elmore patiently counted an incred¬ ible 539 Dunlin at McElroy. Other high counts include Killdeer (well over 1000 and probably 2000), Semipalmated Plover (500), White-rumped Sandpiper (200+) and Black-bellied Plover (5 1 ). The best flight of Sanderlings ever recorded in Ken¬ tucky in spring occurred in 1998 with as many as 21 present at McElroy on 27 May. The relatively late occurrence of the lakes in 1998 probably accounted for a lower number of breeding birds. Noteworthy records however did include one brood of Blue-winged Teal at McElroy and Pied-bi lied Grebes at Chaney. Wood Ducks and Hooded Mergansers appeared to have bred in the area with young present at McElroy on several dates. Many broods of Mallards were present. The Woodburn area also produced a number of interesting records of non- waterbird species. Lark Sparrows nested in a field near Vance Road with three young observed on 1 7 July. Single Yellow-headed Blackbirds were seen at McElroy and Walton’s Pond. Merlins were present on two dates at McElroy and a Bewick’s Wren was seen in the woodlot on the east side of the lake for three days. Waterbird species reported during 1998 are summarized in the following table. Bodies of water included are McElroy, Chaney (CH), Walton’s Pond (WP), along Highway 240 and Petros Pond along US 68/80 west of Woodburn. Others who submitted records are: Jackie Elmore, Diane Elmore, Lester Doyle, Mark Bennett, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., David Chaffin and Tom Durbin. — DAVID ROEMER, 294 Drakes Creek, Drive, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42103. Species Eary Spring Amer. White Pelican — Common Loon 5-12 Pied-billed Grebe — Homed Grebe 5-6 Eared Grebe 5-6 Dbl-cr. Cormorant — Great Blue Heron — Great Egret 4-27 Little Blue Heron — Cattle Egret 4-26 Green Heron — Bl-cr. Night-Heron — Late Early Spring Fall Comments — 7-11 — 6-5 — - - bred at CH — — 2 breeding plumage 6-30 — — — 30+ CH 8-19 — 6-26 82 CH 8-25 — 7-5 20+ WP 7-20 (Im) 5-22 7-18 7-3 12 CH 8-5 94 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 Species Eary Spring Late Spring Early Fall Comments Yel-cr. Night-Heron — — 7-12 17 CH 7-29 (Im) White Ibis - - 7-12 thru 8-7 (Im) Glossy Ibis 5-17 — — adult Snow Goose — 5-22 — Canada Goose — -- — Wood Duck — — — Green-winged Teal - — — Mallard — — — 15 broods on 6-3 Pintail 2-21 — — WP Blue-winged Teal — — — brood of 8 7-17 Northern Shoveler 5-3 6-14 7-20 male in eclipse Gadwall 5-3 5-18 — Amer. Wigeon 5-11 - - Ring-necked Duck 5-18 7-29 - Greater Scaup 4-27 — — adult male Lesser Scaup 5-3 6-3 - Hooded Merganser 5-9 - - young thru period Red-breasted Merganser 5-3 5-19 - Ruddy Duck 5-3 6-14 - Sora 4-27 — — CH Amer. Coot — — — thru period Sandhill Crane - — 8-30 Petros pond Black-bellied Plover 5-6 6-14 7-23 51 5-17 Amer. Golden Plover 4-23 — 8-22 Semipalmated Plover 4-21 6-23 7-17 500 5-21 Killdeer — — — 1000+ 7-23 Greater Yellowlegs 4-19 6-8 6-30 Lesser Yellowlegs 3-9 6-6 6-20 Solitary Sandpiper 4-19 - - Willet 4-27 5-9 7-8 Spotted Sandpiper 4-22 6-15 7-8 Upland Sandpiper - - 8-7 Whimbrel 5-19 — — 17 Ruddy Turnstone 5-4 6-6 8-4 16 5-22 Sanderhng 5-16 6-5 7-20 2! 5-27 Semipalm. Sandpiper 4-30 6-15 7-2 500 5-21 Western Sandpiper 4-23 5-4 7-14 6 4-23 Least Sandpiper 4-23 5-27 6-29 White-rumped Sandpiper 4-23 6-14 - 200+ 5-22 1 to 7-20 1998 95 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Eary Late Early Species Spring Spring Fall Comments Baird’s Sandpiper 5-1 - 8-20 Pectoral Sandpiper 4-23 6-14 7-3 200 7-23 Dunlin 5-7 6-8 - 539 5-23 Stilt Sandpiper 5-15 5-30 7-8 Buff-breasted Sandpiper - - 7-24 Sh. -billed Dowitcher 4-24 5-27 6-30 45 5-16 Lg. -billed Dowitcher 4-27 5-7 - Common Snipe - - 7-20 Amer. Woodcock - - - CH Wilson's Phalarope 4-23 5-13 8-10 3 4-26 Red-necked Phalarope 5-6 - - female Laughing Gull 4-25 - - adult Franklin’s Gull 6-5 - 7-11 thru 7-20 Bonaparte’s Gull 4-25 - - Ring-billed Gull 4-27 6-3 - Herring Gull 4-27 5-7 - Caspian Tern 5-10 5-15 7-12 Common Tern 5-10 5-22 - Forster’s Tern 4-28 - - Least Tern 6-12 - - Black Tern 5-1 6-15 7-23 61 6-5 Little Gull 6-9 6-17 - Osprey 5-19 - - Bald Eagle 5-3 5-22 - Im Peregrine Falcon 4-30 5-7 - also 5-3 Merlin 4-26 5-9 - Amer. Pipit - 5-18 - Brewer’s Blackbird 2-21 3-14 - 10 3-14 Yellow-headed Blackbird 5-18 5-24 — Lark Sparrow 4-28 - - bred Vance Road North American Migration Count The following is a brief summary of the spring North American Migration Counts held in Kentucky on May 9, 1998. A total of 164 species were recorded by all groups. Results have been fowarded to be included with all counts nationwide on May 9. Total Observers Total Observers Species Species Boone County 139 22 Fayette County Calloway County 122 8 Jefferson County Daviess County 88 16 Ohio County -LEE MCNEELY, P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 96 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 74 BOOK REVIEW Wild Bird Guides: Northern Cardinal by Gary Ritchison Stackpole Books, Mechanicsburg, PA, 1997; 122 pp., 148 color photographs, flexible cover, $19.95. If you want to know everything about Northern Cardinals, Cardinalis cardinalis , this is the book. It is easy to read and the text is broken often by beau¬ tiful color pictures of cardinals illustrative of the subject being covered in the nar¬ rative. The book begins with a history of the scientific name, taxonomy and distri¬ bution of Northern Cardinals. Given the authors deep interest in bird behavior, there are extensive sections on food, feeding habits, vocalizations, and behavior complete with a discussion of the function of song and behaviors. Facts of general relevance to other avian species are mentioned along with the information pertain¬ ing to cardinals. A substantial portion of the book is devoted to the breeding cycle; courtship, nesting, egg laying, incubation, parenting and fledging. The book con¬ cludes with the nonbreeding season and the relations of cardinals with humans. For anyone interested in Northern Cardinals, and especially their behavior, this book is a must. Enjoy. NEWS AND VIEWS Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at 502-894- 9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money (i.e., up to $500) to assist them in conducting re¬ search on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Fund Committee c/o Blame Ferrell, Department of Biology. Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: Ferrebr@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form. Kentucky Bird Records Committee Rare bird sightings and birds observed out of season should be well docu¬ mented and the documentation should be sent to Lee McNeely, Secretary of the KBRC (PO. Box 463. Burlington, Kentucky 41005) for consideration by the com¬ mittee for official state record status. K.O.S. Website Thanks to Gary Ritchison, the Kentucky Ornithological Society has a site on the world wide web: http://w ww.biology.eku.edu/kos.htm. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by the Kentucky Ornithological Society) Vol.75 FEBRUARY 1999 No. 1 THE FALL MIGRATION, 1998, Fred M. Busroe MID- WINTER BIRD COUNT, 1998-1999 . NEWS AND VIEWS . 3 9 20 9 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 75 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Vice-President . Marilee Thompson. Owensboro Corr. Secretary . Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr. Old Westport Road. Louisville, KY 40222 Treasurer . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463. Burlington, KY 41005 Recording Secretary . Mark Bennett. Russellville. KY Councillors: David Roemer, Bowling Green . 1998-2000 Kathryn Clay, Louisville . 1998-2000 Darrin O'brien, Louisville . 1999-2001 Hap Chambers, Murray . 1999-2001 Retiring President . Wayne M. Mason. Bowling Green 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 $8.00: Contribut¬ ing, $15.00: Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular. Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell. Biology Department. Western Kentucky LIniv. Bowling Green. 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W.) Stamm and Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr. Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box463, Burlington. KY 41005 THE COVER We thank our staff artist, Ray Harm, for this portrayal of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. Pheucticus ludovicianus. 1999 3 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER THE FALL MIGRATION - 1998 Fred M. Busroe The weather during the period was unusually warm and dry. Fall migration seems to have started early and was more prolonged than normal. There were several interesting observations from the western part of the state. These include: Brown Pelican (a possible first state record). Yellow Rail, Red Phalarope, Rufous Hummingbird and Clay-colored Sparrow. Abbreviations - KBRC = Kentucky Bird Record Committee; WMA = Wildlife Manage¬ ment Area; AJP = A. J. Jolly Park, Campbell County; Bark Dam = Barkley Dam, Livingston/ Lyon counties; Bar = Barren River Reservoir, Barren County; Bel = Bellevue, Campbell County; BBL = Big Bone Lick State Park, Boone County; Bio = Blood River (embayment of Kentucky Lake), Calloway County; Bur = Burlington, Boone County; Cal = Calloway County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Bath/Rowan counties; Cen = Central Park, Boone County; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; Cra = Craig’s Creek, Gallatin County; Cre = Joe Creason Park, Jefferson County; Day = Dayton, Campbell County; EBP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; Falls = Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County; Ful = Fulton County; GCA = Greater Cincinnati Airport, Boone County; Gray = Grayson County; Gri = Basil Griffin Park, Warren County; Hart = Hart County; Jef = Jefferson County; JMF = Jefferson Memorial Forest. Jefferson County; Jon = Jonathan Creek. Marshall County; Ky Dam = Kentucky Dam, Marshall/Livingston counties; Ky Lake, Marshall County; L#9 = Lake #9, Fulton County; LBark = Lake Barkley, Livingston/Lyon/ Trigg counties; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; Lau = Laurel River Lake, Laurel/ Whitley counties; Lou = Louisville, Jefferson County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; Mark = Markland Dam, Gallatin County; McEl = McElroy Lake, Warren County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; New = Newport, Campbell County; PWMA = Peabody WMA, Muhlenberg/Ohio counties; Rab = Rabbit Hash, Boone County; RNWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; RRSP = Rough River State Park, Grayson County; SC = Short Creek, Grayson County; Sil = Silver Grove, Campbell County; SWMA = Sloughs WMA, Henderson County; Smi = Smithland Dam, Livingston County, Sou = Southgate, Campbell County; Ste = Steele’s Bottom, Gallatin County; Warn = Warren County; Wav = Waverly Park, Jefferson County. Red-throated Loon - 1 immature on November 18 on LBark (DR). Common Loon - 1 on September 19 at Jon (Hap); 2 on November 12 at LPew (JWH); a raft of 27 on November 24 at Lau (CB); 10 on November 29 on CRL (JW). Pied-billed Grebe - 8 with partially downy young on August 8 at Cha (DO); 5 on Septem ber 25 and on October 17 at Jon (Hap). Horned Grebe - 9 on November 3 at Falls (DO); 3 on November 4 at New (FR); 19 on November 14 at Mel (LMc); 46 on November 14 at Falls (DO) ; 6 on November 29 at CRL (JW). Eared Grebe - 1 on November 15 at Smi (MB); I on November 16 on Bar (DR). American White Pelican - 135 on August 11 in Ful (DR). BROWN PELICAN 1 immature on November 20 on Ky Lake (DR). Documentation has been presented to KBRC. Double-crested Cormorant - 25 on August 25 at Jon (Hap); 1 1 on September 19 at EBP (LMc); 40 on September 25, 50 on October 4 and 65 on October 1 1 at Jon (Hap); 4 on October 12 at Ste (LMc); 55 on October 17, 25 on October 18 and 13 on November 5 4 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 at Jon with 12 at Bio on October 31 (Hap); 2 on November 24at Lau (CB). American Bittern - 1 on September 22 at SWMA and 1 on October 28 at PWMA (DR). Least Bittern - 1 on September 10 and 2 on September 22 at SWMA (DR). Great Blue Heron - 4 to a high of 70+ seen at Jon from September 5 to October 18 (Hap, MM); 100 on November 8 and 110 on November 15 at Bio (Hap). Great Egret - 2 on August 28 and September 8 at AJP (FR); 5 to 8 during September at MCFH (FB); 1 on September 6 at Cra (LMc); 2 on September 19 at EBP (LMc); 16 on September 22 at Jon (MM); 10 on October 4 and 12 on October 17 at Jon (Hap); 1 on October 12 at Ste (LMc). Little Blue Heron - 3 on September 21 near LPew (JWH). Cattle Egret - In excess of 2000 on September 25 in LBark area (DR); 50+ on Septem ber 26 near Kuttawa at LBark (DO). Tricolored Heron - 2 from August 10 to 28 in Ful (DR). Black-crowned Night Heron - 1 immature on September 4 at MCFH (FB); 2 on September 6 at Cra (LMc); 2 on September 25 and October 4 at Jon (Hap). White Ibis - An immature at McEl/Cha area, from August 1 to August 7 (DR). Black Vulture - 75 on September 19 at EBP (LMc); 7 on November 29 at AJP (FR). Greater White-fronted Goose - 1 on November 21-23 at AJP (FR). Snow Goose - 1 blue phase on November 21-23 at AJP (FR); one from November 27-30 at Gri (LD). Ross’ Goose - 1 from November 27-29 at Gri (LD, DR). Gadwall - 6 on October 18, 12 on Novembers and 27 at Jon with 6 on November 27 and 29 at Bio (Hap); 25+ from November 6 - 30 at CRL (FB); 2 on November 24 at Lau (CB). American Black Duck - 1 October 18 at Jon (Hap); 2 on November 6 at MCFH (FB). Blue-winged Teal - 35 on August 29 at Jon (Hap); 14 on September 5 and 19 on September 17 at Jon (MM); 8 on November 6 at CRL (FB). Northern Shoveler - 6 on October 1 1 and 5 on November 27 at Jon with 9 on November 27 and 5 on November 29 at Bio (Hap); 6 on November 22 at New (FR); 4 on November 24 at LPew (JWH). Northern Pintail - 25 on August 29 at Jon (Hap); 1 male on November 6 at Goose Pond, CRL (FB); 1 on November 26 at Day (FR). Green-winged Teal - 20 on September 6 at Cra (LMc); 4 on October 4 at Jon (Hap); 9 on October 1 8 at Jon ( MM ); 1 0 on November 5 and November 27 at Jon with 12 on Novem ber 29 at Bio (Hap); 8 on November 27 at CRL (FB). Canvasback - 4 on November 24 at LPew (JWH). Ring-necked Duck - 30 on November 1 1 at CEL and 10 on November 1 1 at Mark (LMc); 4 on November 20 at CRL (FB). Greater Scaup - 4 on November 1 8 and 20 at LBark (DR). Lesser Scaup - 40 on November 1 1 at Mark (LMc); 10 on November 21 at Rab (LMc). White-winged Scoter - 1 adult male on November 8 on Ohio River at Lou (DR). Black Scoter - 1 on November 20 on LBark (DR). Oldsquaw - 1 on November 18 on LBark (DR); 1 from November 26-30 at MCFH (FB, THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 5 1999 LK, Jo). Bufflehead - 3 on November 21 at Cra (LMc). Hooded Merganser - 8 on November 5 and 4 on November 27 at Jon with 2 on November 29 at Bio (Hap). Ruddy Duck - 1 on November 4 at CEL (LMc); 1 on November 14 at Falls (DO); 25 on November 5 and 68 on November 27 at Jon (Hap); 2 on November 22 at AJP (FR). Osprey - 1 on August 15 and October 17 at Falls (DO); 1 on September 25 at Jon (Hap). Bald Eagle - 2 on November 27 and 1 on November 29 at Bio (Hap). Northern Harrier - 1 on November 9 in Hart (MS). Sharp-shinned Hawk - 1 on October 21 and 25 in Hart and 1 in Barren County on Novem' ber 22 (MS); 1 on November 2 7 at Day (FR). Cooper’s Hawk - 1 on October 13 and 21 in Hart (MS); 1 on November 21 at Mel (FR). Broad-winged Hawk - 60 on September 19 at Mid (JC, KC, LMc). Red-tailed Hawk - 4 on November 22 at AJP (FR). Rough-legged Hawk - 1 on October 22 and November 6 at PWMA (DR). Merlin - 1 observed on the following dates: September 7 at Jon, September 12 at L#9, October 3 in Warn, and October 28 and November 6 at PWMA (DR); 1 on September 19 in JMF (DO); 1 on October 4 at New (FR). Peregrine Falcon - 2 on August 22 and November 14 at Falls (DO); 1 on September 20 at Jon (MM); 1 on October 1 at New (FR). YELLOW RAIL 1 in Ohio County on October 28 (DR). Documentation has been pre sented to KBRC. Sora - 1 on September 21 at Cen (LMc). American Coot - As many as 700 on November 17 at LPew (JWH); approximately 2,500 on November 20 at CRL (FB). Black-bellied Plover - 1 on the following dates at Jon: September 9, 17, and October 18 (MM); 4 on September 25, 1 on October 17 and 2 on October 18 at Jon (Hap); 1 atMCFH on September 12 and 24 (FB, LK). American Golden Plover - 2 on September 9 and 17 at Jon (MM); 1 on September 10 and 4 on September 12 at MCFH (FB); 1 on September 19 at Jon (Hap). Semipalmated Plover - 2 on September 4 and 1 on September 8 at MCFH (FB). Killdeer - High number at MCFH was 150 on September 12 (FB); 150 on October 17 at Jon with approximately 45 during November at Bio (Hap). Greater Yellowlegs - 1 at MCFH on September 5, 8, and 10 (FB); 1 on September 19 and October 1 1 at Jon with 1 on October 31 at Bio (Hap). Lesser Yellowlegs - 6 on August 29, 15 on September 19, 1 on October 4, 4 on October 1 1 and 17, 2 on October 18 at Jon and 2 on November 15 at Bio (Hap); 1 on September 17 at AJP (FR). Solitary Sandpiper - 2 on August 15 at Falls (DO); 4 on September 23 at AJP (FR). Sanderling - 1 on September 25 at Jon (Hap). Semipalmated Sandpiper * 5 on September 1 at MCFH (FB); a high of 15 on September 25 at Jon (Hap). Vol. 75 6 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Western Sandpiper - 3 on November 5 at Jon (Hap). Least Sandpiper - 1 on September 2 and 17 at AJP (FR); 15 on September 24 at MCFH (FB); 5 to 32 on several dates at Jon with a high of 18 on November 29 at Bio (Hap). White-rumped Sandpiper - 2 on October 1 1 at Jon (Hap). Baird’s Sandpiper - 1 on August 22 and September 7 at Falls (DO); 1 on September 5 at MCFH (FB). Pectoral Sandpiper - 6 on September 1 and 24 at MCFH (FB); a high number of 25 on October 4 at Jon with 4 on November 8 at Bio (Hap). Dunlin - 4 on November 3-6 at MCFH (FB); 8 on November 5 and 16 on November 27 at Jon with 9 on November 15, 2 on November 27 and 6 on November 29 at Bio (Hap). Stilt Sandpiper - 42 on September 17 at Jon (MM). Buff-breasted Sandpiper - 1 on August 22 and 5 on August 7 at Falls (DO); 1 at MCFH on September 8 and 10 (FB, LK); 1 on September 17 at Jon (MM). Short-billed Dowitcher - 6 on August 29 and September 25 at Jon (Hap). Common Snipe - 1 on September 29 at AJP (FR); 1 to 3 at Jon during the period and 2 on November 27 at Bio (Hap); 2 on October 31 at CEL (LMc). American Woodcock - 2 on October 31, 1 on November 8 and 15 at Bio (Hap). RED PHALAROPE - 1 on October 17 (BD, RD, Hap) and on October 18 at Jon (Hap, MM, DR). Documentation presented to KBRC. Laughing Gull - 1 on September 26 at Ky Dam (DO); 1 on October 4 at Bark Dam (Hap). Franklin’s Gull - 1 on September 1 at MCFH (FB, LK); 1 on September 25 at Bark Dam (Hap); 15 on November 14 at Mel (LMc). Bonaparte’s Gull - 14 on November 5 and 29 on November 27 at Jon with 7 on November 29 at Bio (Hap); 2 on November 14 at Mel (LMc); 30 on November 24 at Lau (CB). Ring-billed Gull - A high of 30 on November 8 at Bio and a high of 125 on November 27 at Jon (Hap); 20 on November 24 at Lau (CB ). Herring Gull - 8 on August 25 and 25 on October at Bark/Ky Dams and 6 on November 29 at Bio (Hap). Lesser Black-backed Gull - 1 on island above Bark Dam on September 25, October 4 and 17 (Hap); 1 on September 26 at Bark Dam (DO). Caspian Tern - 6 on September 19 at EBP (LMc); 5 on September 25 at Jon (Hap). Forster’s Tern - 9 on September 7 and 96 on October 1 8 at Jon ( MM); 1 00 on October 1 7, 96 on October 1 8, 26 on November 5 and 24 on November 27 at Jon (Hap); 1 on Novem¬ ber 21 at Mel (FR). Great Horned Owl - Up to 4 on September 8, 1 1, 12 and November 1 7 in Hart (MS). Barred Owl - I on September 19 and October 11 at Jon (Hap). Whip-poor-will - 2 on October 18 at Cre (DO). RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD - a first year male was banded on November 24 near Cunningham, Carlisle County by Chris Sloan and Portia MacMillan of the Tennessee Or¬ nithological Society. Yellow-bellied Flycatcher - I on September 5 at Cre (DO). Loggerhead Shrike - 1 on October 10 in Cal (MM). White-eyed Vireo - 6 on September 19 at BBL (LMc). Bell's Vireo - 7 on August 26 at PWMA and 1 on September 6 in Warn (DR). 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 7_ Yellow-throated Vireo - 1 singing on September 1 7 at AJP (FR); 5 on September 19 at BBL (LMc). Warbling Vireo - 2 on August 26 at RRSP (JP); 1 on September 5 at Cre (DO). Philadelphia Vireo - 1 on September 13 in Bel (FR). Horned Lark - 1 1 on August 26 and 1 on November 18 at RRSP (JP) Brown Creeper - 1 on October 18 at Cre (DO); 1 on October 31 at Bio (Hap). Winter Wren - 1 on October 4 at Jon (MM); 1 on October 8 at Bur (LMc); 1 on October 24 at Cre (DO). Sedge Wren - 6 on August 17 at SWMA and single observations at the following: August 23 at RNWR, August 26 at PWMA and SWMA, and October 16 in Todd County (DR). Marsh Wren - Single observations on the following dates: September 10 at SWMA, Octo ber 6 in Warn, October 10 at SWMA and October 27 at Cha (DR). Golden-crowned Kinglet - 3 on October 8 at MCFH (FB); 2 on October 18 in Cre (DO); 3 on November 2 in Cal (MM). Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 1 on October 8 at MCFH (FB); 1 on October 17 and 3 on October 18 in Cre (DO). Swainson’s Thrush - 1 on August 30 at Bur (LMc). American Pipit - 1 on October 4 and October 17 at Jon with 15 on November 15, 25 on November 27 and 30 on November 29 at Bio (Hap). Cedar Waxwing - 50 on September 21 at Cen (LMc); 30 on October 24 at Bel (FR). Blue-winged Warbler - 2 on September 22 at BBL (LMc); 1 on October 14 at Kentucky Bend, Ful (DR). Golden-winged Warbler - 1 on September 5 at Cre (DO). Tennessee Warbler - 1st fall observation on August 22 at Mid (LMc); 4 on September 6 in Wav (DO); 1 on October 28 at Bel (FR). Orange-crowned Warbler - 1 on September 17 at Bel (FR); 1 on September 19 in JMF (DO); 1 on September 24, 2 on October 25 in Warn and 1 on October 14 at Kentucky Bend, Ful (DR). Yellow Warbler - 1 on September 21 at Cen (LMc). Chestnut-sided Warbler - 2 on September 5 in Cre (DO). Magnolia Warbler - 2 on September 5 at Cre (DO); 1 on September 23 at Sil (FR). Cape May Warbler - 3 on September 19 at BBL (LMc). Black-throated Blue Warbler - 1 on September 5 at Cre (DO); 1 on October 9 at Cha (DR). Yellow-rumped Warbler - 150 on October 8-12 at MCFH (FB); 10 on October 25 in Gray (JP). Palm Warbler - 1 on September 9 and 2 on September 1 1 at Wil, 3 on October 4 at New (FR); 5 on October 8 at MCFH (FB); 1 on October 25 and November 23 in Gray (JP); 1 on November 29 in Warn (DR). Prothonotary Warbler - 1 on September 21 at BBL (LMc). Connecticut Warbler - 1 on September 6 in Warn (DR). Mourning Warbler - 1 on September 5 at Cre (DO). 8 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 75 Wilson’s Warbler - 1 on September 19 at EBP (LMc); 1 on September 22 at BBL (LMc). Canada Warbler - 1 on September 5 at Cre (DO). Scarlet Tanager - 4 on September 19 at EBP (LMc). Rose-breasted Grosbeak - 1 on September 17 and 23 at AJJ (FR); 4 on October 4 near Mad (JWH); 1 on November 14 at SC (JP). Blue Grosbeak - Adults at nest on August 12 and 13 with a juvenile on August 17, an adult female on August 3 1 and September 1 at Wil (FR); 3 on August 27 near Mad (JWH); 1 on October 24 in Butler County (DR). Dickcissel - 1 on October 12 at Cha (DR). CLAY-COLORED SPARROW - 1 on October 24 in Warn (DR). Documentation pre sented to KBRC. Savannah Sparrow - 1 on September 1 9 at GCA (LMc); 3 on September 2 1 at Cen (LMc); 2 on October 8 at MCFH (FB); 3 in Gray on October 25 (JP). LeConte’s Sparrow - 1 on October 13 at RNWR, 1 on October 22 and 5 on October 28 at PWMA(DR). Lincoln’s Sparrow - 1 on September 22 at BBL (LMc). Swamp Sparrow - 2 on September 21 at Cen (LMc) 3 on October 18 at Cre (DO); 3 on October 8 at MCFH (FB); 10 on October 25 in Gray (JP); 3 on October 26 at Day (FR). White-throated Sparrow - 4 on September 29 at AJJ, 8 on October 24 and 5 on November 22 at Bel (FR); first seen on October 8 near Mad (JWH); 1 on October 14 at Cre (DO); 2 on October 25 in Gray (JP). White-crowned Sparrow - 1 on October 2 at New, 1 on October 4 and 5 on October 24 at Day (FR); 2 on October 24, 3 on October 25 and 4 on November 29 in Gray (JP). Dark-eyed Junco - 1 on October 1 1 in Jef (DO); 10 on October 27 at Sou and 5 on Novem ber 2 at Bel (FR); 40 on November 15 in Gray (JP); 1st fall observation at Mad on No vember 21 (JWH); 30 on November 21 at AJJ (FR). Lapland Longspur - 3 on October 21 at McEl and 1 on November 18 at Smi (DR); 1 on November 27 at Day (FR). Bobolink - 1 on October 16 in Todd County (DR). Rusty Blackbird - 4 on October 31 at Aur (LMc). Baltimore Oriole - 4 on September 5 at Bur (LMc). Purple Finch - 1 on November 9 and 2 on November 16 in Warn (DR). Birds currently under review by the Kentucky Bird Record Committee. Brown Pelican - 1 at Kentucky Dam, Marshall County on 20 November 1998. Yellow Rail - 1 in Ohio County on 28 October 1998. Red Phalarope - 1 at Jonathan Creek, Marshall County on 18 October 1998. Clay-colored Sparrow -1 in Louisville, Jefferson County on 1 October 1998. Contributors - Mark Bennett (MB), Clay Black (CB), Fred Busroe (FB), Joe Caminiti (JC), Kathy Caminiti (KC), Hap Chambers (Hap), Bonnie Dever ( BD), Robert Dever (RD), Lester Doyle (LD), James W. Hancock (JWH), Lewis Kornman (LK); Lee McNeely (LMc), Mike Miller (MM), Darrin O'Brien (DO), Joyce Porter (JP), David Roemer (DR), Mitchell 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Sturgeon (MS), Jim Williams (JW) 9 — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351 MID- WINTER BIRD COUNT 1998-1999 Reports of 27 counts were received from across the state. A total of 128 species was recorded on count days, 1 1 8 of which are represented on the table. Those species observed on count days that are not represented on the table include: two Merlin (1 Paradise, 1 Falls of Rough), one Virginia Rail (Shelby ville), three Rufous Hummingbirds (Lexing¬ ton), one House Wren (Green River), two Tree Swallows (Danville), one Northern Rough¬ winged Swallow (Louisville), two Vesper Sparrows (Shelby ville), two LeConte’s Sparrows (Paradise), and two Lapland Longspurs (Paradise). A Ruffed Grouse (Perry County), a Sedge Wren (Paradise), and a juvenile male Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Falls of Rough) observed during count week brought the species total for the count period to 131. Com¬ pared with last year, four more species were observed and there were reports from five more counts. Seventeen species were observed on every count and fourteen species only on one count. Nine counts were conducted on December 19 and five on January 2. The count period started out relatively warm with a high temperature of 65°F on December 21 . Temperatures dropped in late December, with a low temperture of 1°F on January 1 . Waterfowl numbers appeared to be consistent with previous years for the most part. The Oldsquaw and Surf Scoter were a nice addition. The number of Bald Eagles was down probably due to the very mild weather during the majority of the fall and count period. This could also explain why the number of Red-breasted Nuthatches was off by 1 89 compared with last year. Purple Finch and Cedar Waxwing numbers were also off. On the plus side of weather influences, several species lingered late, such as the Pine and Palm Warblers, Common Yellowthroat, House Wren and swallow species. It is hard to tell whether the unusualness of the count was due to milder weather or more observers in the field given the increase in the number of counts. Even though trends are hard to detect over the short term, it was nice to see new counts added to the state. Thanks are sincerely extended to all participants, particularly those who submitted veri¬ fication forms for unusual sightings and those who included interesting comments about their counts. In order to be included in the count and considered for state record status, documentation needs to be considered by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee (KBRC) for unusual sightings. Calloway County (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Douglas Cem¬ etery.) Habitat 30% urban and residential, 15% deciduous and pine woods, 35% open fields, 20% lake shore and streams. Jan. 2; 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clouds/rain; temp. 50° to 25°F; wind W, 12 m.p.h. Other weather comments: rain, sleet, freezing rain, and light snow. Ten observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 32.5 (8.5 on foot, 24 by car). Total party- miles 137 (8 on foot, 129 by car). Total species 78; total individuals 5,966. Observers: Hap Chambers (compiler), Joe Tom Erwin, Bob Head, Rick Hokans, Sally Leedom, Mike Miller, Darren O'brien, Clell Peterson, Shari Sherwood, and Tommy Sherwood. JO _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 75 Lack of waterfowl was attributed to abundance of duck hunters and warm weather. There were 3 immature and 6 adult Bald Eagles. Land Between the Lakes (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Pisgah Bay picnic ground.) Habitat mostly wooded areas, some fields, a few small towns, Kentucky Lake and Barkley Lake. Dec. 19; 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky rain a.m., cloudy p.m.; temp. 40° to 47°F; wind NW, 8 m.p.h. a.m.; calm p.m. Twenty two observers in 7 parties. Total party-hours 48.75 (22 on foot, 26.75 by car). Total party-miles 284 ( 15.5 on foot, 268.5 by car). Total species 85; total individuals 7,283. Observers: Mark Bennett, Richard Bennett, Richard Cassell, Hap Chambers, Marty Davenport, Andrea Douglas, Ronnie Dupre’, Leslie Engebretson, Jason Gill. Rick Hokans, Ruth Jaquot, Carl Mowery (compiler), Kathy Mowery, Clell Peterson, Larkin Philpot, Lawrence Philpot, LouAnn Philpot, Amber Pogue, Darrin Samborski, Tommy Sherwood, Bill Weber. Robert Wright. Thank you to all who braved the rain in the morning. Some unusual gulls and a Pacific Loon had been seen near the dams, but not within the count week. Sorgho (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 279-S and Audubon Parkway intersection.) Habitat river bottoms, county park with creek bottoms, woods, plowed fields, sanitary landfill, urban parking lots and rolling hills. Jan. 2; 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky overcast, fog at times; temp. 30 to 44 F; wind S. 10 m.p.h. Five observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 14 (2 on foot, 12 by car). Total party-miles 92.5 (3 on foot, 89.5 by car). Total species 44; total individuals 4,270. Observers: Pat Augenstein, Brad Boester, Neal Hayden, Janet Howard (compiler), and Joyce Porter. Yelvington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center intersection of Hwy. 405 and 662). Habitat: Ohio River bottoms. Carpenter's and Kingfisher Lakes, Yellow Creek Park, Game and Fish Farm and environs. Dec. 26; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sky clear; temp. 44"F to 46°F; wind 3-5 m.p.h. Fourteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 29 (25.5 on foot, 3.5 by car). Total party-miles 78.5 (3.5 on foot, 75 by car). Total species 61 ; total individuals 4,708. Observers: Pat Augenstein, Chuck Davis, Sharon Davis, Steven Ham, Neal Hayden, Jan Howard, John Humphrey. Jody Jones, Dr. Mike Kavolus, Joyce Porter, A.L. Powell (com¬ piler), Millie Powell (feeder), Maudie Ray, Marvin Ray, Thelma Watson. Additional comments: The sightings of Wild Turkeys is proof that the conservation program by the Kentucky Department of Wildlife Resources is working. In the area covered by this count, the turkey has been found all seasons and it is encouraging to see large flocks. Also of interest was the sighting of an albino cowbird by Jody Jones and Steven Ham. The feeders of Powell and Rays proved to be a great addition to the count. Olmstead (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1993.) Habitat as described in 1993. Dec. 30; 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky clear a.m. to overcast p.m.; temp. 16°F to 31 "F; wind NW, 0-12 m.p.h. Two observers in 1 party. Total party-hours 10 (4.5 on foot, 5.5 by car). Total party- miles 90 ( 1 on foot, 89 by car). Total species 66; total individuals 4,336. Observers: Mark Bennett (compiler), David Roemer. Additional comments: Cold weather resulted in good bird activity, but low waterfowl numbers. Highlights included two Hermit Thrushes, two Eastern Phoebes, four Palm Warblers, three Chipping Sparrows, 20 Savannah Sparrows, a gambelii White-throated Sparrow, a dark-phase Red-tailed Hawk and a Brewer’s Blackbird. 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ H_ Paradise (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1993.) Habitat as described in 1993. Jan 1; 4:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 10° to 280F; wind WSW, 5-15 m.p.h. Water partly open; light snow cover. Sixteen observers in 6 parties. Total party-hours 46.5 (13 on foot, 33.5 by car). Total party-miles 314(7 on foot, 307 by car). Hours owling 2.5. Total species 95; total individuals 11,709. Observers: Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Jennifer Bottom, Richard Cassell, Hap Chambers, Bradford Elmore, Diane Elmore, Jackie Elmore, Shari Forsythe, Mary Harrel, Mike Henshaw, Darren O'Brien. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Joyce Porter, Robert Rold, and Eric Will¬ iams. This was the best Paradise count yet, eclipsing the 1990-1991 and 1995-1996 species totals of 91. Highlights included 17 species of waterfowl, a flock of 55 Sandhill Cranes, five Pine Warblers (two locations), two Chipping Sparrows, two LeConte’s Sparrows (found this year in a new spot in Ohio County ), and two Lapland Longspurs ( in Muhlenberg County with a flock of horned larks). A sedge Wren was flushed from the LeConte’s Sparrow field the day before the count, but could not be found on count day. Unusually high totals were recorded for the following species: Ring-necked Duck (850), Wild Turkey (302), Ruby- crowned Kinglet (13), Hermit Thrush (18), Savannah Sparrow (90— undoubtedly an all- time Kentucky CBC total), and Swamp Sparrow (202). Raptor numbers were a little below average this year; windy conditions in the early evening greatly reduced the count of Short¬ eared Owls. As in past years, not included in the total are thousands of blackbirds going to roost somewhere outside the count circle to the west. Bowling Green (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Three Springs, six miles south of Bowling Green.) Habitat deciduous forest 20%, fields and pastures 60%, and town and parks 20%. Dec. 20; 6:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sky overcast with light mist to partly sunny; temp. 46° to 54°F; wind SW 2-8 m.p.h. Heavy fog until 8:30 a.m. Eight observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 22.25 (4.25 on foot, 18 by car). Total party-miles 81.75 (9 on foot, 72.75 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 4,584. Observers: Lester Doyle, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Elizabeth Ferrell, Dick Lord, Ian Mason, McKenzie Mason, Wayne Mason, and David Roemer. Mammoth Cave National Park (Center and habitat as described in 1980.) Dec. 21 ; 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sky overcast fog and mist in a.m. to partly cloudy in p.m.; temp. 48° to 65°F; wind SW 0-12 m.p.h. Five observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 14.75 (4 on foot, 10.75 by car). Total party-miles 83.25 (8.5 on foot, 74.75 by car). Total species 43 total individuals 723. Observers: Clint Blankenship, Blaine Ferrell (compiler), Elizabeth Ferrell, Wayne Ma¬ son and David Roemer. Glasgow (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1986.) Habi¬ tat as described inl986. Dec. 28; 6:00 a.m. to 4:35 p.m. Sky clear a.m. to partly cloudy p.m.; temp. 19° to 28°F; wind NW 0-5 m.p.h. Four observers in 2 parties, with 8 feeder watchers. Total party-hours 27.75 (12.75 on foot, 15 by car). Total party-miles 61 (1 1.75 on foot, 48.25 by car). Total species 78; total individuals 3,779. Four feeder watchers in 3 parties. Observers: Clint Blankenship, Lester Doyle, Marquita Gillenwater, Wayne M. Mason (compiler). Feeder watchers: Arlene Lapham, Charlie Lapham, Billie Mae Moore, and Emma Jean Pitcock. The count took place on the first favorable day following several days of below freezing temperatures. Damp weather proved to be instrumental in bird movement for this count. The species and individual totals are among the highest in the history of the Glasgow count. _L2 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 75 Waterfowl numbers and diversity were largely responsible for this — 14 of 22 species of duck on the state’s checklist were observed. Many thanks to the contingency of feeder watchers who contributed to this count; their results were a significant contribution in the final analysis. Falls of Rough (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Short Creek, Ken¬ tucky at the intersection of Highway 79 and Highway 54.) Habitat woodland, cultivated fields. Rough River, Rough River Lake, Rough River State Park, river bottoms, watershed lake, cultivated fields, old fields and yard feeders. Dec. 19; 6:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky cloudy, intermittent rain in a.m.; temp. 450 to 47QF; wind calm. Seven observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 25 (11.5 on foot, 13.5 by car). Total party-miles 181 ( 12 on foot, 169 by car). Total species 60; total individuals 2,462. Observers: Pat Augenstein, Kathryn Clay, Rebecca Foreman, Mary Harrel, Janet Howard, Joyce Porter (compiler), and Wavy Young. Owling 7:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., with no owls heard. Hart County (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center comer of Craddock Road and Geralds Lane.) Habitat 100 acre pond, very rural, farms and woodlands, and the Green River. Dec. 19; 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sky rainy, thenpartial clearing; wind gusty in the afternoon. Seven observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 14 (4 on foot, 10 by car). Total party- miles 102 (4 on foot, 98 by car). Total species 5 1 ; total individuals 1,982. Observers: Bruce Bardin, John Britain, Carol Friedman, Logan Kistler, Steven Kistler (compiler), Carolyn McCombs, and Mitch Sturgeon. Eighty Killdeer were all in one flock near a farm pond. Green River (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Green River Memorial Baptist Church, Taylor County, Kentucky.) Habitat farm fields, second growth forest, old field, stream edges and reservoir. Dec. 26; Sky mostly clear to partly cloudy; temp. 25° to 45°F; wind variable 5-15 m.p.h. Six observers in 2 parties. Total party-hours 16.5 (5.5 on foot, 1 1 by car). Total party- miles 67.5 (2.5 on foot, 65 by car). Total species 73; total individuals 4,359. Observers: Richard Cassell, Jackie Elmore, Richard Kessler (compiler), Sonya Kessler, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., and Bettye Wilcoxson. Weather for the Green River count was very nice! Interesting observations included the sighting of a Golden Eagle soaring with four Bald Eagles. Ducks were scattered at Green River Reservoir. A House Wren was heard and seen near the lakeshore and Savannah Spar¬ rows were also observed in the state park. Low numbers of House Finches in the count area continues to be an interesting trend. Otter Creek Park (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat brushy fields 15%, park area 20%, farmlands 38%, woodlands 13% ponds, creeks, lake, and river 14%. Dec. 19; 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 42® to46°F; wind S, 20 m.p.h. in a.m. Twelve observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 36 (15.5 on foot, 20.5 by car). Total party-miles 207.5 ( 15 on foot, 192.5 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 3,128. Observers: Mary B. Bauer, Jill Biel, John Krull, Celia Lawrence, Brian Lewis, Doxie Noonan, Darren O'Brien, Jim Pasikowski, Helga Schutte, Patricia Sebree, Anne L. Stamm (compiler), and Ed Toone. Again the count was low. Some of the highlights, however, were a Common Loon, 10 Great Blue Heron, seven Gadwall, 32 American Kestrel, 35 Wild Turkey and 40 Carolina Wrens. It was encouraging to see 86 White-crowned Sparrows when last year only four were observed. Blackbirds were practically absent, with only a single Common Grackle THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 13 1999 reported. Bernheim Forest (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1974.) Habitat as described in 1974. Dec. 28; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 300 to 42°F; wind S-SW, 5-18 m.p.h. Water open. Fourteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 39 (16 on foot, 23 by car). Total party-miles 237.5 (6.5 on foot, 231 by car). Total species 69; total individuals 6,317. Observers: Jane Bell, Pat Bell, Dona Coates, Robert Dever, Brian Klapheke, Robert Klapheke, Celia Lawrence, Darrin O’brien, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (compiler), Audrey Smith, Tony Smith, Bates Toone, Ed Toone, and Edwin Toone. The day was breezy, making observing songbirds difficult. The species total is slightly above average despite the low waterfowl count. Count highlights included the adult Bald Eagle and sub-adult Golden Eagle, both seen in the rugged, south end of the Forest, two Eastern Phoebes, five Pine Warblers, and two Palm Warblers. Berry-eating species were in good numbers, especially robins. Louisville (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Jet. Hwys 42 and 22, as deserbed in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1972. Dec. 20; 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 43° to 47°F; wind S, 2-9 m.p.h. Periods of misty rain. Twenty six observers in 14 parties. Total party-hours 83.25 (38 on foot, 45.25 by car). Total party-miles 476.5 (34.75 on foot, 441.75 by car). Total species 88; total individuals 26,286. Observers: Garrett Adams, Win Ahrens, Mary Bill Bauer, Jane Bell and Pat Bell (compil¬ ers), Dona Coates, Bo Fender, Jane Fender, Steve Figg, Chuck Hatten, Cheryl Jones, Brian Klapheke, Frank Krull, John Krull, Celia Lawrence, Fred Mansmith, Burt Monroe III, Doxie Noonan, Peggy Oates, Darren O’Brien, Clara Ann Pallares, David Pallares, Bill Parsley, Mary Ann Parsley, Martha Pike, Anne L. Stamm, and Beckham Bird Club and Friends. Due to an unseasonably warm autumn, participants expected the number of species to be low this year. But despite misty rain throughout much of the morning, the observers found a total of 88 species, only two short of last year. Three species that had lingered longer than expected were Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Gray Catbird, and Common Yellowthroat. There was a notable lack of winter finches and Red-breasted Nuthatches. Increased num¬ bers of Canada Geese, Hooded Mergansers, and American Robins were noteworthy. The sighting of Common Mergansers on count day and during the count week was a pleasant find as this bird has not been a part of our tally for several years. Shelby ville (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’-1190’, farm¬ land, fallow land, suburban, wooded and grassland. Jan. 3; 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sky cloudy and overcast; temp. 90 to 20OF; wind W, 15-20 m.p.h. Snowing most of the day, gusty with 2-4 inches of snow on the ground. Seven observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 26 (6 on foot, 20 by car). Total party- miles 225 (1 on foot, 224 by car). Total species 72; total individuals 4,956. Observers: Wanda Bennett, Iris Brown, Joan Brown, Todd Brown, W.H. Brown (com¬ piler), Heather Crouch and Cathy King. Snow cover aided the sighting of birds in that their contrasting colors were more notice¬ able. Also, a cold front moved in a day or two in advance of the count day possibly pushing birds south, and flocks of birds were very prevalent. Frankfort (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1972.) Habitat as described in 1977. Dec. 19; 5:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 420 to 46°F; wind ESE, 0-19 m.p.h. Intermittent light rain and fog. Total r^- on r~- V/’l , - T* ' — — */"> Mermet Lake Perry County Somerset Richmond 0‘s — so -Tj- I - ON */"> m on ^ NO - Falmouth Warsaw Burlington Lexington Danville Kleber WMA Frankfort Shelbyville Louisville Bernheim Forest Otter Creek Green River Hart County Falls of Rough Glasgow Mammoth Cave NP Bowling Green Csl Os ^ s) >0 * — (N m o iri — (N Ol h- t — ■ — Tf- OC cs o — — « — ■ — r- cr-, rsj no - o — m Paradise r~- oc (nj cj Olmstead Yelvington Sorgho Land Btwn Lakes Calloway County oo nO */"> “ 5 Os -i- fN r-~ no — — Os Z O u c 08 _2 w 7 Ofi o° ~ =? ? o o Ss U Cu i! si Q c “ u £ « o V I x z o efi us z - -r o ” « fc us x u “ US Z H X • -= M - cs u> as us -J x US c n us C c/3 O P > f- US US < u u “ < c S>S X X w US 83| sl u c i — . c/3 - O US z — us u Q os — u < as us 5 r; J < X ^ B3 X j- X - • OS < S S < C u -< < S z < H Z EZ z as S us -T X Z “ us as x O os z a us u » a C/3 < -< US > X Z X < x U 0£ US u 3 eu a 3 X < us u C/3 u ec US us Z f- rj < u US 5 es < g 6 s “ £ Urn OC 52£ ^ « a j X oo r j OC O OOTiDO“r,''1-,J,MfN,t'tMOOi n m oj — -^r ■ oo — o c+~i o> O' vs~, vo r- | CT' O' */“» vO O O' 'O O */“> <“~J O u-) O' — oo — r-i - — in o O' Csi m vo O-l O' ON i »o» — «o-> — — — O' 01 — O' NO — n vo — ! oo yy~, oo OJ w-> o-l O' — oo — vO r*~> — nO r- r- — m n — in in vo r-~ vo m so — — -O ^ * — oo — ■'sj- — — — 1 oo Or^»o>oor^O' O' o-JOOvo — */-> — - O' rj (N — cn vO rsi *y~) oo iy~i O O no OO r4 m — m oo n voi or- — — vO oo CQ LU CQ £ w C/3 < Z o < cq o W Q£ S W z S S CQ go O W u CQ CQ u 2 cq ss| §si > w E5 Q Q t- Q _J OS 3 < O OS era Z X * is is 22 32 ^ c/3 « CL. 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OQ < p* W H SG X q H « 3 g g s o z ^ z < CQ LlJ S W u J cq — 1 u xg 5 ^ c/3 ^ -Q U o u Q _ o Dm O Q Z Z ^ Z *< z < ^ o u 5i| w o S J u < l-J ^ S VJ5 O V3 C/3 U z ^ X DC J < UI Cl. z < U- CQ O J Q 3 w o 3 C 5 ^ Ci w CQ X H < u ^ CQ W O « w ac if w ti, O Q z o 2 ° Q w X H J J Q UJ W CQ CQ « 3 w H rj W 2 fe < 8 “ O cc ^ t 05 2 Z d _j as w w o ac > a Total Mermet Lake Perry County Somerset Richmond Falmouth Warsaw Burlington Lexington Danville Kleber WMA Frankfort Shelbyville Louisville Bernheim Forest Otter Creek Green River Hart County Falls of Rough Glasgow Mammoth Cave NP Bowling Green Paradise Olmstead Yelvington Sorgho Land Btwn Lakes Calloway County — oo ->T CD OO - (N - ' CD * OO CD Tj- On l — m ro — — OO rt CM O' CD o (N — o O' * co CO - "3- CD CD 10 O' i — 04 — CZ5 O' CO O- «o (M — (s r' — CM (N ■o CO I — CD MD co CD O CM i/D O' O Tt CM 04 CO 04 co CO CO is~> — 04 cc CO) — O' — • CD> — - nQ Tf Tt rc CM — 1 in co co — ■ ^ O' CD O'! ro - — — — OO -r-f- 04 CO Tt O' ' - 04 on — ■ t/~> o' 1 O' 04 04 ■ r- o o ^ Tt — 04 - - vC “ CO CO - =-3‘ r~~- no no 04 5 nO co -*-j- co co 04 CD i — — tj- oo m — ■ in T-f- in 04 >n oi CD i -rj- CD co 04 o4 go co o oo m 3 — NO 04 nO * 04 NO lO) On O O ■rj- co 04 in 5 ^ I O' co CD ‘Cl O' 04 O' CO O' co OO NO CO Q£ rv** uj pi U! 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Total party-hours 36.25 (17 on foot. 19.25 by car). Total party-miles 277 ( 13 on foot, 264 by car). Two of the observers spent 12 hours at feeders. Total species 54; total individuals 4,306. One half hour and ten miles of owling. Observers: James Derryberry, Margaret Derryberry, Dean Doerrfeld, Suzanne Doerrfeld. Jim Durell, Peggy Gould (Compiler), Ralph Gould. Pat Hankla, Scott Hankla, Virginia Honaker, Jeff Jones, Robert Laurenson, Susan Laurenson, Greg Pond, and Tim Williams. An unusually large flock of 63 Killdeer was observed on a hillside with a flock of Star¬ lings. Kleber Wildlife Management Area (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center as described in 1977.) Habitat as described in 1977. Jan. 1; 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Sky partly cloudy to cloudy; temp, lo to 24QF; wind W, 0-10 m.p.h. Intermittent light fog, still and moving water partly frozen. Three observers in 1-2 parties. Total party-hours 10.75 (1 on foot, 9.75 by car). Total party-miles 98 ( 1 on foot, 97 by car). Total species 45; total individuals 1 ,755. Observers: Jim Durell. Peggy Gould (compiler), and Ralph Gould. Danville (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Boyle County Courthouse.) Habitat as described before. Dec. 19; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 38° to 45°F; wind S nil. Thirty six observers in 10 parties. Total party-hours 5 1 .5 ( 1 1 on foot, 40.5 by car). Total party-miles 433.75 ( 1 2.25 on foot, 42 1 .5 by car). Total species 63; total individuals 6,884. Observers: Jim Amburgey, Ernie Baird, Haley Barbato, Ron Barbato. Andre Brousseau, Ed Caldwell. Bill Catron, Shirley Catron, Casey Clark, Julie Clay, Bob Corcoran, Mildred Dawn, Ginny Eklund, Neil Eklund (compiler), Colby Foster, Martha Foster, Tobin Foster, Bill Garriott, Bruce Gordon, JoAnn Hamm. Tom Kearns, Bill Kemper, Leslie Magalis, Charlie Martin, Eric Mount, Jack Newton, Alex Nichols, John B. Nichols, Don Pelly. Rob Pendygraft, Herb Petitjean. Jack Pogue, Louise Robinson. Joan Smith. Charles Vahlkamp and Maynard VanHorn. Highest Robin and Fox Sparrow count in Danville history. Lexington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center East Hickman Church on Tates Creek Road. ) Habitat mixed residential and farmland. Dec. 19; 6:00 a.m. to 4: 1 5 p.m. Sky cloudy, light rain; temp. 40 to 44 F; wind SW 5-10 m.p.h. Total species 74; total individuals 15,925. Thirty two in 9-10 parties. Total party-hours 71 (5 on foot, 66 by car). Total party-miles 641 ( 10 on foot, 63 1 by car). Observers: Earl Boggs, Manton Cornett. Phyllis Deal, Edward Demoll, Mark Farman, Mike Flynn. Bill Gardner, Stepanie Gardner. Jonathon Glixson. Carol Goes, Paul Hager. Emily Horn, Terry Koontz, Bob McNeese, Mark Morgan, Robert L. Morris (compiler), Matthew Nielson, Nathan Nielson. Carol Pickett, David Powers, Glenn Raliegh, Art Ricketts. Tina Ricketts, Louis Shain, Chuck Susie, Marie Sutton. Dave Svetich, Shawchyi Vorisek, Katherine Welsh, Jim Williams, Bernice Wood, and Hank Yacek. Burlington (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center near Camp Michaels.) Habitat as described in 1992. Jan. 2; 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 20° to 33°F; wind E, 5-18 m.p.h. Three inches of snow was on the ground, snow during early morning followed by freezing rain, then light rain during the afternoon. Seven observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 17 (6 on foot, 11 by car). Total party- miles 70 (2 on foot. 68 by car). Total species 67; total individuals 2,541 . Observers: Joe Caminiti. Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti. Elaine Carroll. Melissa Desjardin, 19 1 999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Lee McNeely (compiler), and Tommy Stephens. Feeder Watchers: Kevin Flowers, Christine Godsey, Marjorie Hill, Lynda McNeely, Troy Schadler, Carmen Schulte, and Gene Wolfe. Harsh weather conditions kept many observers indoors. Those who did venture out were rewarded with some interesting birds. A pair of Surf Scoters was on the Ohio River at Rabbit Hash. Eleven species of waterfowl were found at the East Bend Power Plant with two Oldsquaws most notable. The majority of the gulls and the American Pipit were also at the power plant. Warsaw (all points within a 1 5-mile diameter circle, center Gallatin County courthouse.) Habitat as described in 1 992. Dec. 19; 5:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Sky overcast; temp. 42° to 470F; wind S, 5-15 m.p.h. Water open. Eight observers in 3 parties. Total party-hours 26 (9 on foot, 17 by car). Total party- miles 135 (4 on foot, 131 by car). Total species 55; total individuals 3,554. Observers: Joe Caminiti, James Clapp, Kevin Flowers, Ed Groneman, Frank Lewandowski. Lee McNeely (compiler), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., and Tommy Stephens. Species diversity was lower than normal for this count, as were gull numbers. Most waterfowl were found at the Ghent Power Plant. The Gray Catbird was located by Tommy Stephens at the Warsaw sewage treatment plant. Falmouth (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center near Caddo, Kentucky.) Habitat 50% woodland and forest edge, 25% river and lake shoreline, 20% agricultural, and 5% residential. Dec. 26: 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy early, partly sunny; temp. 23 to 36 F; wind SW, 0-10 m.p.h. Most water open. Two observers in one party. Total party-hours 9 (5 on foot, 4 by car). Total party-miles 66 (2 on foot, 64 by car). Total species 52; total individuals 913. Observers: Lee McNeely (compiler) and Tommy Stephens. This was a new count conducted by a single party of two people. Highlights included good numbers of Pied-billed Grebes, one Ruddy Duck, and one Eastern Phoebe. Richmond (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 0.75 miles north of inter¬ section of Bobtown Road and the Kingston-Berea Road. ) Habitat 40% fencerows and road¬ sides, 20% woodland, 30% pasture and open fields, and 10% lawns. Dec. 19; 7:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sky cloudy, with frequent light rain; temp. 40 to 49 F; wind NE, 2-10 m.p.h. Light rain most of the day. Six observers in 4 parties. Total party-hours 20.5 (5 on foot, 15.5 by car). Total party- miles 126 (6 on foot, 120 by car). Total species 50; total individuals 1,599. Observers: Terri Beck, Charles Elliott, Scott Harp, Brandon Ritchison, Gary Ritchison (compiler), and Mike Strunk. Somerset (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center at the junction of Bypass E. 80 and Highway 39, Crab Orchard Road.) Habitat 21% water edge, 13% cultivated, 24% wooded and edge, 1 1% urban, and 31% field/fence. Jan. 2; 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 29°F to 49°F; wind E-SE, 0-20 m.p.h. Icy roads in the a.m., moderate rain from 3:30 p.m. until the end of the count. Thirteen observers in 5 parties. Total party-hours 41 ( 14.5 on foot, 26.5 by car). Total party-miles 321 ( 10.5 on foot, 310.5 by car). Total species 81; total individuals 12,058. Observers: Clay Black, Jean Bricknell, Granville Cox, Roseanna Denton (compiler), Steve Denton, Kimberly Feltner, Carolyn Gay Hodges, Carol Kennedy, Mary Kissel, Bob Murphy, Lynda Perry, Jim York, and Margaret York. Feeder watchers: Julie Denton, Evelyn Garrett. Jim Hodges, Eileen Hurst, Mary Moss. In addition, 159 ducks, two hawks and 81 sparrows of unidentified species were ob 20 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 served during the count. Perry County (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center Farmhouse, Spencer farm.) Habitat reclaimed strip mine, pond, woodland, and edge. Jan. 2; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sky partly cloudy; temp. 300 to 50°F; wind 10-15. Warm and windy, front moving through. Two observers in I party. Total party-hours 10(8 on foot, 2 by car). Total party-miles 20. Total species 29; total individuals 265. Observer: Dennis Sandlin and Don Spencer (Compiler). The Northern Harrier is moving into the large reclaimed areas, but its probable nesting has not been confirmed yet. *Mermet Lake (all points within a 15-mile diameter circle, center 1.5 miles N.W. of Metropolis Airport, intersection of 900 E and 900 N county roads, Illinois.) Jan. 1; 4:00 a.m. to 4:35 a.m. Sky cloudy; temp. 17 to 25 F; wind variable, 8-12 m.p.h. Seven observers in 5 to 6 parties. Total party-hours 50.5 ( 14 on foot, 36.5 by car). Total party-miles 356.5 (11.5 on foot, 345 by car). Total species 91; total individuals 83,248. Two-and-one-half hours were spent owling over 0.5 miles. Observers: Lester Barger, Frank Bennett (compiler), Mark Bennett, Pat Brown, Ron Brown, and David Garrett. *Only data for the Kentucky portion of the count are included on the table. NEWS AND VIEWS Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at 502-894-9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball. Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money (i.e.,up to $500) to assist them in conducting research on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology. Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: Ferrebr@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form K.O.S. Spring Meeting (CHANGE!) The K.O.S. spring meeting has been changed from Carter Caves to Jenny Wiley State Park. The dates are still April 30-May 2, 1999. A single room is $55; double, $65; a 2 bedroom cottage, $98; and camping is available on a first come, first served basis. The reservation number is 1-800-325-0142. Lee McNeely will be sharing his trip to Texas with us at the Lriday evening meeting. Please plan on attending and if you have some interesting sightings to share, please contact Marilee Thompson at Marileetom@AOL for inclusion on the Friday evening program. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 75 MAY 1999 NO. 2 IN THIS ISSUE THE WINTER SEASON, 1998-1999, Fred Busroe . 23 THE SPRING MEETING OF THE K.O.S., Mark Bennett . 28 FIELD NOTES . 30 NEWS AND VIEWS . 36 22 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 75 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle Vice-President . Marilee Thompson, Owensboro Corr. Secretary . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 Treasurer . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 Recording Secretary . Mark Bennett, Russellville, KY Councillors: David Roemer, Bowling Green . 1998-2000 Kathryn Clay, Louisville . 1998-2000 Darrin O’brien, Louisville . 1999-2001 Hap Chambers, Murray . 1999-2001 Retiring President . Wayne M. Mason. Bowling Green 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Anne L. (Mrs. F.W. ) Stamm and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER We thank our staff artist, Ray Harm, for this excellent painting of an American Robin, Turdus migratorius. 1999 23 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER THE WINTER SEASON, 1998-99 Fred M Busroe The Winter was an unusual season with many extremes in weather conditions. January was the third warmest on record with above normal precipitation. Febru¬ ary 1 1 had a record high temperature of 70+°F, followed by a 45° temperature drop over the next 24 hours. There was a heavy influx of Horned Larks, Lapland Long- spurs and Snow Buntings into northern Kentucky during the severe weather in January. Abbreviations - WM A = Wildlife Management Area; AJP = A J Jolly Park, Campbell County; Aur = Aurora Ferry Road, Boone County; BWMA= Ballard WMA, Ballard County; Bark = Barkley Dam, Livingston/Lyon counties; Barn = Barren County; Bell = Bellevue, Campbell County; Bern = Bernheim Forest, Bullitt/Nelson cos.. Big = Big Bone Creek, Boone County; BGA = Blue Grass Army Depot, Madison County; Bio = Blood River Embayment, Calloway County; Bur = Burlington, Boone County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; CHC = Camargo Hunt Club, Boone County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Bath/Rowan cos.; Cha = Chaney Lake, Warren County; Cra = Craig’s Creek, Gallatin County; Dale = Dale Hollow Lake, Clinton County; Day = Dayton, Campbell County; EBP = East Bend Power Plant, Boone County; EKU = Eastern Kentucky University, Madison County; Falls = Falls of Ohio, Jefferson County; FtT = Fort Thomas, Campbell County, FtW = Fort Wright, Kenton County; Ful = Fulton County; Ghe = Ghent Power Plant, Carroll County; Gri - Basil Griffin Park, Warren County; Gun = Gunpowder Creek, Boone County; Hart = Hart County; Hie = Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County; Ky Dam = Kentucky Dam, Marshall/Livingston cos.; Ky Lake = Kentucky Lake, Calloway/Livingston/Marshall counties; KOS = Kentucky Ornithological Society field trip; LBark = Lake Barkley, Livingston/Lyon/Trigg cos.; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; LWC = Louisville Water Company, Jefferson County; Mad = Madisonvllle, Hopkins County; Mark = Markland Dam, Gallatin County; McEl = McElroy Lake, Warren County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; New = Newport, Campbell County; Ohio = Ohio River, Jefferson County; Open = Open Pond, Fulton County; OLF = Owsley Fork Lake, Jackson/Madison cos.; PBF = Palmer-Ball Farm, Jefferson County; PWMA= Peabody WMA, Muhlenberg/Ohio cos.; Pet = Petersburg, Boone County; Rab = Rabbit Hash, Boone County; RNWR = Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County; SC = Short Creek, Grayson County; Smi = Smithland Dam, Livingston County; Thu = Thurston’s Pond, Wayne County; Tow = Tow- head Island, Jefferson County; War = Warsaw, Gallatin County. Red-throated Loon - 1 on December 7 at Ky Dam (DR). Common Loon - II on December 5 at Ky Dam (Hap, CP); 1 on December 20 on Ohio and 10 on January 2 on Ky Lake (DO); 1 on February 15 at Big (LMc); 1 on February 28 at OFL (RG, GR). 24 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 Pied-billed Grebe - 22 on December 4 and 27 on December 15 at LPew (JWH). Horned Grebe - 1 on December 5 at LWC and 1 on December 20 on Ohio (DO). Eared Grebe - 1 on December 8-9 at Bark and 1 on December 9 at Barren River Reservoir. Barn (DR). White Pelican - 15 on January 23 at Bark (Hap); 55 on February 7 at Ky Dam (Hap, Ben); 47 on February 29 at Bio (Hap, JTE). Double-crested Cormorant - 1 at LWC and Ohio on December 20 (DO). Great Blue Heron - 15 on December 20 at Falls (DO); 1 to 3 during the period at AJP(FR). Black-crowned Night-Heron - 1 on January 17 at Bark (DO, DR). Black Vulture - 14 on December 13 at RNWR (DO); 2 on February 18 at OFL (RG, GR). Turkey Vulture - 7 on February 18 at OFL (RG, GR). Snow Goose - 1 blue phase on December 5-6 at AJP (FR); 1 15 (including 35 blue phase) on February 20 at Hie (KOS); 1000+ on January 16 at BWMA (DO); an adult and an immature at MCFH during February 15-22 (FB ); 2 (blue phase) on February 28 at McEl (BE) . Ross’ Goose - 1 on January 20 and 24 at Gri (LD , DR); 2 on February 28 at McEl (BE). Greater White-fronted Goose - 4 on December 13 at RNWR (DO); 85 on Febru ary 14 in Ful (Hap, CP); 60 on February 20 at Hie (KOS); 7 on February 28 at McEl (BE). Canada Goose - Numbers increasing from 336 on December 23 to 700 on January 20 at AJP (FR); 98 on January 8 at OFL (RG, GR); 212 on January 10 at LWC (DO). Mute Swan - 3 on January 8 at OFL (RG. GR); 7 on January 16 at Gun (LMc); 9 on January 21 at Thu (RD). Wood Duck - 3 on January 16 at BWMA (DO); 7 on February 13 and 2 on Febru ary 28 at OFL (RG, GR). Gadwall - 126 on December 5 at Falls (DO); 1 on January 8 at OFL (RG, GR); 6 on January 15 at Bel (FR). American Wigeon - 4 on January 1 at PWMA (DO). American Black Duck - 12 on January 1 at PWMA (DO); 34 on January 8 at OFL (RG, GR); 25 on January 18 at Ghe (LMc) . Mallard - 120 on December 16 at AJP(FR); 72 on January 8 at OFL (RG, GR). Blue-winged Teal - 1 on February 3 at Cha (DR). Northern Shoveler - 35 on December 3 at RNWR (DO); 18 on December 6 at Bio (Hap) ; 6 on December 19 at AJP and 5 on December 23 at Mel ( FR) . Northern Pintail - 9 on December 3 at RNWR (DO); 5 on January 18 at Ghe (LMc); 300+ on February 14 in Ful (Hap); estimated 500 on February 20 at Hie (KOS) 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 25 Green-winged Teal - 12 on December 6 at Bio (Hap); 3 on December 20 at Falls (DO); 20 on January 1 8 at Ghe (LMc); 1 5 on February 20 at RNWR (Hap, CP). Canvasback - 8 on January 8 and 1 on January 22 at OFL (RG, GR); approx. 1 10 on January 16 at Mark and 63 on January 20 at Mel (FR); 34 on January 16 at Rab, 15 on January 18 at Mark and 10 on January 18 at War (LMc). Redhead - 1 at CEL February 13-28 (LMc). Ring-necked Duck - 400 on January 1 at PWMA (DO); 204 on January 8 and 1 on January 22 at OFL (RG, GR); 3 on January 18 at Mark and 2 on February 15 at Aur (LMc). ; Greater Scaup - 1 on December 5 at LWC and 2 on January 1 7 on Ky Lake ( DO); 1 on February 15 at Aur (LMc). Lesser Scaup - 9 on December 5 at Falls (DO); 10 on January 18 at Mark (LMc); 25 on February 28 at OFL (RG, GR); 100 on February 28 at Bio (Hap, JTE). Surf Scoter - 1 on December 12 at Day and 4 on December 28 at FtT (FR); 2 on January 2 at Rab and 1 on January 18 at Mark (LMc) . White-winged Scoter - 1 on January 28 at Bark (DR); 1 on February 4, 1 on February 10 and 2 on February 19 at Mel (FR). Black Scoter - 1 on December 7 at Smi, 1 on December 12 at Ky Dam and 1 on December 12 at Bark (DR). Oldsquaw - 2 on January 2 at EBP (LMc), Hooded Merganser - 5 on December 12 at LWC (DO). Common Merganser - 4 on January 2 at EBP (LMc); 3 on January 5 at Day (FR); 9 on January 22 at OFL (RG, GR). Red-breasted Merganser - 2 on January 9 at Tow (DO). Ruddy Duck - 1 on December 26 at Mel and 7 on January 1 8 at Mark (LMc); 3 on January 1 at PWMA (DO); 6 on January 2 at Bel (FR); 3 on January 8 and January 22 and 2 on February 28 at OFL (RG, GR); a high of 29 on February 1 3 at LPew (JWH). Bald Eagle - 1 adult on December 9 and an immature on December 1 2 at Rab (LMc); 2 on January 10 at Bio (Hap); 5 on January 16 at BWMA (DO). Northern Harrier - 1 on January 5 in Hart (MS); 2 on January 9 at Day (FR); 3 on January 16 at Aur and 1 on January 18 at Ghe (LMc); 10 on January 18 at PWMA (DO). Sharp-shinned Hawk - 1 on February 17 in Hart (MS). Cooper’s Hawk - 3 on January 1 at PWMA (DO); 1 on January 1 1 in Barn (MS); 1 on February 16 at EKU, 1 on February 18 and 28 at OFL (RG, GR). Rough-legged Hawk - 4 on January 1 at PWMA (DO). Golden Eagle - One immature on January 18 at Bern (DO). Peregrine Falcon - 2 on December 20 on Ohio (DO); 1 adult on January 18 at Ghe (LMc) ; 2 on February 28 at New levee (FR). 26 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 75 American Coot - A high of 300 on December 4 at I. Pew (JWH); 1 2 on Decem¬ ber 12 on Ohio (DO); 106 on January 8, 40 on January 22 and 40 on February 28 at OFL (RG, GR). Sandhill Crane - 45 on December 3 1 over Louisville (DO); 45+ on December 10, Hart , 40 on January 18 in Barn, 38 on January 18, Metcalfe Co. and 39 on February 5, Hart (MS); 52 on January 1 at EKU (RG, GR); 120 on January 4 over Bur (LMc); 30 on January 13 at FtW (GC); 500+ on February 21 at McEl (BE); approx. 1400 on the ground on February 22 at McEl (DR). Lesser Yellowlegs - 1 on January 31 at McEl (DR). Least Sandpiper - 10 on December 6 at Bio (Hap); 6 on January 2 in Calloway Co. (DO). Dunlin - 4 on December 14 at Open (DO). American Woodcock - 2 on February 27 at Maywoods, Garrard Co. (RG, GR). Common Snipe - 4 on January 2 in Calloway Co. (DO); 75 on February 6 in Mercer Co. (NE, VE, AR, TR); 30 on February 14 in Ful (Hap, CP). Pomarine Jaeger - 1 immature on January 23 (MB, Hap, DR, CS) and January 24 at Ky Dam (DO); 1 on February 7 at Ky Dam (Hap, Ben). Franklin’s Gull - 1 on December 5 at Ky Dam (Hap, CP); 1 on December 7 at Bark and at Smi (DR). Bonaparte’s Gull - 75 on January 2 at EBP and 8 at Rab (LMc); 30 on January 8 and 25 on January 9 at MCFH (FB, LK); 2 on January 18 in Cumberland Co. (MS); 2 on February 28 at McEl (BE). Ring-billed Gull - 3 10 on December 20 on Ohio (DO); 15 on January 4 in Bern (MS); 30 at mall on January 9 at Mad (JWH); 200 + on January 9 at MCFH (FB, LK); 150 on January 18 at Cra (LMc); 1 on February 18 at BGA (RG. GR); 19 on February 28 at McEl (BE). Herring Gull - 4 on December 20 on Ohio (DO); 5 on January 2 at EBP and 1 on January 20 at LPew (JWH). Thayer’s Gull - 1 ( 1st yr.) on January 1 7 and 24 at Bark and 2 ( 1st yr. and 3rd yr.) on January 17 at Ky Dam (Hap, DO, DR); 1 on February 7 at Ky Dam (Hap, Ben). Lesser Black-backed Gull - 1 on January 17 at Bark (DO); several observations of different-aged birds during the period at Bark (Hap, CP, DR) Glaucous Gull - 1 adult on January 1 1 at Calvert City, Marshall Co. and a 1st yr. bird at Ky Dam (DR); 1 on January 24 at Ky Dam (DO); 1 on February 7 at Ky Dam (Hap, Ben). Eastern Screech-Owl - 7 on December 27 in Bern (DO). Great-horned Owl - 1 on December 2 and 10 in Hart (MS); 1 on nest on February 1 5 at CEL (LMc); 1 being harassed by crows on February 27 at City Park, Mad (JWH). Short-eared Owl - 3 on January 1 at PWM A ( DO); 1 2 on January 6 at BGA ( RG, GR); 1 on January 9 at Day (FR). Eastern Phoebe - 1 on December 26 in Pendleton Co. (LMc); 1 on January 4 in Hart (MS). 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 27 Loggerhead Shrike - 1 on December 13 in Ful (DO); 6 on February 14 in Ful (Hap). Horned Lark - 37 on January 2 at EBP and 100 on January 9-10 at CHC (LMc); 1 5 on January 9 at FtW (GC); as many as 1 50 observed January 3- 1 5 at Day(FR); 340+ on January 10 at PBF (DO). Brown Creeper - 2 on January 6 in Jefferson Co. (DO); 2 on February 9 at Goose Pond. CRL(FB). Winter Wren - 2 on December 26 at Mel (LMc). Golden-crowned Kinglet - 1 on December 3 1 in Ohio Co. (DO); 30 on February 9 at Goose Pond, CRL (FB); 3 on February 1 3 at OFL (RG, GR). Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 2 on January 1 8 in Cumberland Co. (MS); 6 on January 30 at Bern (DO); 1 on February 1 3 at OFL (RG, GR). Hermit Thrush - 2 on December 27 at Bern (DO); 4 on February 13 and 1 on February 18 at OFL (RG, GR). American Pipit - 1 on January 2 at EBP (LMc); 7 on January 2 at Ky Lake, 1 on January 9 at Falls and 3 on January 24 at McEl (DO). Orange-crowned Warbler - 1 on December 5 at LWC (DO). Yellow-rumped Warbler - 2 on January 8 and 2 on February 13 at OFL (RG, GR). Pine Warbler - 1 near feeder through February at Mad (JWH). American Tree Sparrow - 1 on December 12 at LWC (DO); 30 on January 3 and 10 on January 6-8 at Day (FR); 1 at feeder on January 9-10 in Mad (JWH). Chipping Sparrow- Observed through the period with a high of 12 on January 25 in Warn (DR). Savannah Sparrow - 4 on January 4 at Day (FR). Fox Sparrow - 2 on December 1 3 in Ful (DO); 1 on December 26 at Mel and 1 on January 3 in Bur (LMc); 1 to 3 observed through January in Mad (JWH). Lapland Longspur - 4 to 60 observed between January 3-February 2 on 9 days at Day (FR); 14 on January 9 at PBF (DO); 5 on January 9-10 at CHC (LMc). Snow Bunting - 8 on January 9 at PBF and 1 on January 10 in Louisville (DO); 3 on January 9-10 at CHC (LMc); 1 on January 10 at McEl (DR); 5 to 22 observed between January 8 and 16 at Day (FR). Northern Cardinal - As many as 37 during February at feeder in Mad (JWH). Western Meadowlark - 1 singing on December 7 at Open (DR). Rusty Blackbird - 1 1 on January 9 at PBF (DO); 8 on January 9-10 at CHC (LMc). Purple Finch - 1 on January 4 and 3 on January 9 at SC (JP); 1 male on January 18 at Bern (DO). Pine Siskin - 1 on February 19 near Dale (DC). Evening Grosbeak - 1 on February 7 at SC (JP). Contributors - Frank Bennett (Ben), Mark Bennett (MB), Fred Busroe (FB), Hap Chambers (Hap), David Chaffin (DC); George Crabtree (GC), Roseanna Denton (RD), Lester Doyle (LD), Neil Eklund (NE), Virginia Eklund (VE), Bradford 28 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 Elmore (BE), Joe T. Erwin (JTE), R. A. Gelis (RG), James W. Hancock (JWH), Lewis Kornman (LK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Darrin O’brien (DO), Clell Peterson (CP), Joyce Porter (JP), Frank Renfrow (FR), Art Ricketts (AR), Tina Ricketts (TR), Gary Ritchison (GR), David Roemer (DR), Chris Sloan (CS), Mitchell Stur¬ geon (MS). — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, Kentucky 40351. The Spring Meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society April 30-May 2, 1999 at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park The Spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society was convened at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park near Prestonsburg, Kentucky on April 30, 1 999. The meeting was called to order by President Wendell Kingsolver at 7:30 p.m. The Friday night program consisted of four excellent presentations. The first presentation was made by David Roemer. Mr. Roemer presented video clips of ‘good birds' located between the Fall 1998 meeting and the Spring meet¬ ing. The clips included birds filmed by David and Lester Doyle. Highlights of the video were a Pomerine Jaeger from Kentucky Dam, a Brown Pelican from Ken¬ tucky Dam, a Caliope Hummingbird banded at Reidland in McCracken County , and scenes of Sandhill Cranes and other species from the transient lakes of Warren County. Members were also treated to a slide persentation by the park naturalist on the history of Dewey Dam, Jenny Wiley State Park, and Jenny Wiley, a pioneer woman captured by the native Americans. During her capture her four children were killed and she eventually lost a fifth child during the ordeal. Ironically, she was captured in a case of revenge and mistaken identity. The presentation included slides of Dewey Dam at various stages of construction and the evolution of the park to its present state. Lee McNeely presented slides of a recent trip to south Texas accompanied by Kathy Caminiti, Joe Caminiti, and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Kathy Caminiti had taken most of the slides. Highlights included Green Jays, White-throated Robins, Whooping Cranes and Clay-colored Robins. Dr. Robert Young, K.O.S. member and free lance photographer, complemented the McNeely presentation with excel¬ lent slides of the resident birds of south Texas. Two field trips departed from the lodge on Saturday morning. Brainard Palmer- Ball, Jr. led a trip on trails near the lodge and the lakeshore. Mr. Fred Busroe led a trip to more remote regions of the park around the Odd Fellows group camp. On Saturday evening, K.O.S. members enjoyed a video film presentation by Steve Maslowski. The film was a preview of an upcoming 55 minute documen¬ tary on birds of North America. The film contained excellent footage of common North American birds. 1999 29 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Sunday morning, one field trip left the lodge for trails in the park, and another group birded by pontoon boat on Dewey Lake. The boat was supplied at no charge by the staff of the park. Fifty five members were in attendance. A total of 83 spe¬ cies was observed during the weekend meeting. MEETING ATTENDANCE BEREA: Art Ricketts, Tina Ricketts BOWLING GREEN: Blaine Ferrell, Lawrence Finley, David Roemer, Joan Roemer BRONSTON: Margaret York BUCKHORN: Eileen Sandlin BURLINGTON: Joe Caminiti, Joey Caminiti, Kathy Caminiti, LeeMcNeely, Sara McNeely CANEYVILLE: Mary Harrel CARLISLE: Ginny Kingsolver, Wendell Kingsolver COCOA BEACH, FL: Phyllis Mansfield DANVILLE: Ginny Eklund, Neil Eklund, JoAnn Hamm, Michael Hamm FALLS OF ROUGH: Kathryn Clay FORDSVILLE: Brenda James, Mike James HAZARD: Dennis Sandlin, Terri Lynn Sandlin JAMESTOWN: Arlene Morton LEXINGTON: Carolyn Truman, Paul Young LOUISVILLE: Bill Clay, Doris Clay, Bonnie Dever, Robert G. Dever, John Koenig, Kay Mudd, Derreck Neese, Kim Neese, Zack Neese, Doxie Noonan, Darrin O’brien, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Anne Stamm MADISONVILLE: John W. Hancock MOREHEAD: Fred Busroe MURRAY: Hap Chambers OWENSBORO: Carroll Tichenor, Doris Tichenor, Bill Tyler RHODE ISLAND: Judy Keller RUSSELLVILLE: Andrea Bennett, Mark Bennett SCIENCE HILL: Roseanna Denton SOMERSET: Linda McClendon UTICA: Brenda M. Eaden, Tony D. Eaden BIRDS OBSERVED AT THE SPRING MEETING 1999 Bird species observed in the proximity of Jenny Wiley State Resort Park during the period April 30 through May 2 included: Common Loon, Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Canada Goose, Mallard, Turkey Vulture, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Wild Tur¬ key, Spotted Sandpiper, Mourning Dove, Barred Owl, Chimney Swift, Ruby- throated Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Wood 30 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 pecker. Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Wood- Pewee, Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, Blue Jay, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, House Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, East¬ ern Bluebird, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Swainson’s Thrush, Hermit Thrush, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Mockingbird, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, European Starling, Blue-headed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow- throated Warbler, Pine Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Black- and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Worm-eating Warbler, Ovenbird, Louisi¬ ana Waterthrush, Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Towhee, Chipping Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird, Orchard Oriole, American Goldfinch, and House Sparrow. The total number of species observed was 83. The weather was sunny, calm to breezy with a temperature that ranged from 45°F in the morning to 75 0 F for a high. FIELD NOTES First Nest Record of the Black-throated Green Warbler in Kentucky Although numerous records exist for sightings of the Black-throated Green War¬ bler (Dendroica virens) during the breeding season in Kentucky, only limited data on the nesting habitat of this species in the state are available (Mengel 1965). The Black-throated Green Warbler is a rare to common summer resident on the Cumberland Plateau in eastern Kentucky (Mengel 1965, Palmer-Ball 1996). Ob¬ servations of this warbler in Kentucky date back as far as 1908 (Howell 1910), with the species being observed regularly in recent times (Palmer-Ball 1996, Baker and Lacki 1997, Lacki and Baker 1998). In all cases these accounts refer to either adult birds or fledged young. The lack of any prior confirmed nest of this species in Kentucky is surprising, as the nesting habits of this species are well docu¬ mented (Ehrlich etal. 1988, Palmer-Ball 1996). Here we report the first docu¬ mented record of a Black-throated Green Warbler nest in Kentucky. On 13 May 1998, a female Black-throated Green Warbler was observed on a nest in a large (51.4 cm in diameter at breast height) eastern hemlock ( Tsuga I canadensis) located in the Red River Gorge National Geological Area, approxi¬ mately 3 km northeast of Pine Ridge, Wolfe County, Kentucky. The nest was 1 0 m above ground and 5 m from the bole of the tree on top of a branch. The nest was located at the edge of the limb, and was situated relatively low in the canopy of the tree. The nest was complete when found and the female left the nest infrequently. 1999 31 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER suggesting incubation or brooding. The nest was revisited on 20 May and the fe¬ male again remained on the nest for long periods. On 27 May, the nest was still intact, but the female was not observed. With the aid of a mirror pole, we discov¬ ered that the nest was empty, suggesting an unsuccessful nesting attempt. The male was frequently heard singing high up in the same hemlock tree throughout the nesting attempt, and for several days after the apparent nest failure. On 15 June, another pair of Black-throated Green Warblers was observed feeding two recently fledged young, approximately 200 m south of the unsuccessful nest. How¬ ever, we were unable to confirm the location of this pair’s nest The eastern hemlock with the unsuccessful nest was located at the bottom of a small drainage near a small patch of American holly ( Ilex opaca). The habitat in the immediate vicinity of the nest site was comprised of eastern hemlock, white oak ( Quercus alba), and northern red oak (Q. rubra), with an understory domi¬ nated by red maple (Acer rubrum). The nest tree was 24 m from a cliff face and 20 m from a small ephemeral stream. Palmer-Ball (1996) suggested that summer popu¬ lations of Black-throated Green Warblers in Kentucky are commonly associated with forests containing eastern hemlock. He postulated that the irregular distribu¬ tion of Black-throated Green Warblers in eastern Kentucky may be attributed, in part, to the localized occurrence of eastern hemlock. Our observation supports this contention, and indicates that Black-throated Green Warblers do nest in eastern hemlocks in eastern Kentucky. Funding for this study was provided by the E. O. Robinson Trust and the De¬ partment of Forestry, University of Kentucky. This investigation (KAES #98-09-165) is connected with a project of the Kentucky Agricultural Experiment Station and is published with the approval of the Director. LITERATURE CITED Baker, M. D., and M. J. Lacki. 1997. Short-term changes in bird communities in response to silvicultural prescriptions. For. Ecol. & Manage. 96:27-36. Ehrlich, P. R., D. S. Dobkin, and D. Wheye. 1988. The birder’s handbook. Simon and Schuster Inc., New York, NY. Howell, A. H. 1910. Notes on the summer birds of Kentucky and Tennessee. Auk 44:143-144. Lacki, M. J., and M. D. Baker. 1998. Observations of forest-interior bird commu¬ nities in older-growth forest in eastern Kentucky. Trans. Ky. Acad. Sci. (in press). Mengel, R. M. 1965. The birds of Kentucky. American Ornithologists Union Mono graphs, No. 3, Allen Press, Lawrence, KS. PalmerBall, Jr., B. 1996. The Kentucky breeding bird atlas. University Press of Kentucky, Lexington, KY. — HENRY F. YACEK, JR., MICHAEL J. LACKI, Department of Forestry, Uni¬ versity of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546-0073. 32 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 WINTER HUMMINGBIRDS IN KENTUCKY: 1998-1999 During the winter of 1998-1999 Portia Macmillan and I, both licensed to band hummingbirds in Kentucky, banded three hummingbirds of two different species. In addition, at least three other hummingbirds were reported during the winter but disappeared before they could be banded and identified. In this article, I discuss the details of the three birds that were banded, and I will briefly summarize the current status of winter hummingbirds in Kentucky. Rufous Hummingbird ( Selasphorus rufus) On 23 November 1998, we banded a hummingbird that had been coming to a feeder near Bardwell in Carlisle County for at least a week. The rusty-orange col¬ oration prevalent in the bird’s plumage in combination with the rapid ‘tic’ call notes identified it as one of the members of genus Selasphorus , either an Allen’s (5. sasin ) or a Rufous (5. rufus). The extensive striations covering 75% of the bill marked this as a hatching-year bird (Ortiz-Crespo 1972). The extensive rufous in the central rectrices confirmed this bird was a male (Baltosser 1987). Finally, the presence of a highly-emarginated tip to the second rectrix identified it as a Rufous Hummingbird (Baltosser 1987). This bird remained at the home of Dan and Debbie Jones until 30 December 1998. A series of photographs were taken and have been deposited with Lee McNeely, Secretary of the Kentucky Bird Records Committee (KBRC). Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) On the morning of 12 December 1998 we banded a hummingbird that had been frequenting a feeder in Reidland, a suburb of Paducah in McCracken County, since mid-November, immediately obvious was the fact that this bird had a partial gor¬ get consisting of black and iridescent purple feathers. Thus, aging, sexing, and identifying this bird was easy , this was a hatching-year male Black-chinned Hum¬ mingbird, the first of this species ever documented in Kentucky. This hummingbird remained at the home of Fritz and Patti Metzger until 16 December 1998. We took one photograph that clearly shows several of the purple gorget feathers during the banding process that has been deposited with the KBRC, and David Roemer videotaped much of the process. Rufous Hummingbird (S. rufus ) On 18 December 1998 we banded a hummingbird that had been coming to a yard in Lexington in Fayette County since at least mid-November. Again, the rusty-orange coloration in the plumage and the ‘tic’ notes indicated a Selasphorus species. The bill was less than 10% striated, which indicated that this was an adult bird (Ortiz-Crespo 1972). Because there were only 14 gorget feathers, this was an 33 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER adult female. The sex was also confirmed by the predominantly green central rec- trices (Baltosser 1987). The second rectrix was only faintly emarginated, so we measured the width of the first and fifth rectrices. The fifth rectrix measured 3.55 mm, far wider than that of any Allen’s. Thus, this was an adult female Rufous Hummingbird. This bird remained at the home of Bob and Stephanie Gardner through 4 Janu¬ ary 1999. A series of photographs of it were taken during banding and have been deposited with the KBRC. Unbanded Winter Hummingbirds We know of at least three hummingbirds present in Kentucky during the winter that departed before we could confirm their identity. One bird was coming to a feeder in Georgetown in Scott County until 25 December 1998. Two birds, one of which was identified as Selasphorus species by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (pers. comm.), visited a feeder in suburban Lexington until 4 and 5 January 1999, respec¬ tively. Previous Winter Hummingbird Records There are three previous records of Rufous Hummingbirds in Kentucky. A pho¬ tograph of an adult male present in Grayson County from 25 September- 16 De¬ cember 1989 furnished the first verified state record (Clay 1990). A female, present from mid-November 1996-2 January 1997, was banded in Trigg County near Can¬ ton (R. Sargent pers. comm. ). An adult male was recorded at the Land Between the Lakes banding station on 1 August 1997 (R. Sargent pers. comm.). Additionally, there are two other records of unidentified Selasphorus humming¬ birds. An immature female was present in Jefferson County from November 1987-5 February 1988 (Palmer-Ball 1989), and an immature male visited a yard in Jessa¬ mine County from 17-25 October 1989 (Stamm 1990). A few Ruby-throated Hummingbirds ( Archilocus colubris) have been reported into mid-November (Monroe et al. 1988). However, several of these birds do not appear to have been adequately documented, so the possibility remains that a Black- chinned may have been overlooked. There are no other prior documented records of winter hummingbirds in Kentucky. General Comments about Winter Hummingbirds At this time, much is still unknown about the status, distribution, and survivor¬ ship of winter hummingbirds in the eastern United States. Rufous Hummingbirds have been known to survive extreme winter conditions, but undoubtedly some will not be able to endure the most severe winter weather. Many Rufous Hum¬ mingbirds begin their migration as early as the first week of January, and in other 34 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol, 75 cases the birds may leave a particular area in advance of or upon the arrival of harsh winter weather (R. Sargent, pers. comm ). Thus, given our current state of knowledge, it is premature at this time to assume that the disappearance of a win¬ ter hummingbird during harsh winter weather indicates that the bird did not sur¬ vive. The presence or absence of feeders in winter may play a role in the survivorship of winter hummingbirds, but how much of a role if any is as yet unknown. How¬ ever, at this time there is no evidence to suggest that winter hummingbirds are in any way dependent on feeders for their survival. Hummingbirds in winter have been observed feeding on insects, which are readily available except during the harshest weather, and on sapsucker wells. Thus, it seems likely that taking down an existing feeder in an effort to encourage a winter hummingbird to leave will likely be unsuccessful. However, much is still unknown to us about these birds, and it is our hope that ongoing banding research will answer these and other ques¬ tions. Any hummingbird seen after October is more likely than not a western stray, and any such bird should be studied closely and banded if possible. Given the fact that three additional species of hummingbirds have been recorded in Tennessee (Allen’s, Anna’s (Calypte anna), and Calliope ( Stellula calliope)), it seems likely I that more hummingbird individuals and species will occur in Kentucky in the near future. If you know of a winter hummingbird, please contact me at the address below. I would like to thank Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. for providing all of the informa¬ tion about previous winter hummingbird records, as well as for reviewing and commenting on this article. I would also like to thank Bob Sargent for reviewing and commenting on this article, in addition to providing much of the general infor¬ mation about winter hummingbird behavior and survivorship. LITERATURE CITED Baltosser, W. H., 1987. Age, species, and sex determination of four North Ameri can Hummingbirds. North American Bird Bander 12:151-161. Clay, H.L., Jr., 1990. First Kentucky record of the Rufous Hummingbird. The Kentucky Warbler 66:44-46. Monroe, B., A.L. Stamm, and B.L. Palmer-Ball, Jr., 1988. Annotated Checklist to the Birds of Kentucky. Kentucky Ornithological Society, Louisville. Ortiz-Crespo, F., 1972. A new method to separate immature and adult humming birds. Auk 89:851-857. Palmer-Ball, B.L., Jr., 1989. First record of a Selasphorus hummingbird in Ken l tucky. The Kentucky Warbler 65:24-27 . Stamm, A.L. , 1990. The fall migration season, 1989. The Kentucky Warbler 66:3-14. — CHRISTOPHER A. SLOAN, 63 1 2 Kingsbury Drive, Brentwood, TN 37027; (615) 373-0828; chri s . Sloan @ vanderbilt.edu 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 35 WHITE-TAILED KITE IN HICKMAN COUNTY On May 5, 1991, we were birding in western Hickman County, Kentucky, when we came upon an adult White-tailed Kite ( Elanus leucurus ) soaring over the open fields just west of the abandoned community of Hailwell. The skies were clear with a light breeze, and the afternoon sun was at an excellent angle for viewing the bird. When we first saw the kite, it was soaring ahead of us to the northeast. View¬ ing with the naked eye, our first thought was that it was a gull (Lams sp.), then a male Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus), but as soon as we viewed the bird through our binoculars, we could clearly see the distinctive upper wing pattern of this beau¬ tiful raptor. During approximately 15 minutes of observation, the bird was mostly viewed flying over a relatively large hayfield at a distance of several hundred yards to about a quarter-mile. During one several-minute period the bird hovered into the southwest breeze before stooping to catch a small mammal, probably a vole (Mi- crotus sp.). It perched on a dead snag in the middle of the field to eat the prey. Upon completing at least part of its meal, the bird returned to the air and headed off northward. We relocated it a few minutes later in a nearby tree just as an East¬ ern Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus) was harassing it into the air again. This time the bird circled for several minutes and gained a great deal of altitude before disap¬ pearing as a speck in the sky to the north. Unfortunately the kite was not seen on subsequent days, although we and others did search for it. The White-tailed Kite appeared to be slightly larger than a Mississippi Kite (Ictinia mississippiensis ), but it was overall whitish in color. The legs, feet and cere were yellowish although the bill was dark and relatively small. The head was white except for a distinctly dark area surrounding and in front of the eye. The back and upper wing coverts were pale gray except for the shoulder areas, which were dis¬ tinctly charcoal in color, forming the species’ distinctive flight pattern. The under¬ wing linings were white except for dark gray or blackish spots at the wrists, yet another characteristic mark for the species. The secondaries were whitish but the primaries were gray; the outer primaries being darkest. The outer primaries stood out as distinctly darker from below, forming a pattern somewhat similar to that of a Laughing Gull (Lams atricilla) although not as dark. The unforked tail was white except for the inner feathers, which were pale gray from above. Throughout the observation period, Palmer-Ball attempted to photograph the bird, but the distance and an incorrect camera setting combined to yield images that were poor in quality. We did, however, have an excellent study of the bird through a 60x Questar telescope, which provided us with the details provided herein. This represents the first record of White-tailed Kite in Kentucky, although most surrounding states have a record or two. Most reliable reports have come during the period from mid-April to mid-May ,-BRAINARD PALMER-BALL, JR., 8207 Old Westport Road, Louisville, 40222, and DONALD PARKER, 5705 Midnight Drive, Louisville, 40229. 36 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER NEWS AND VIEWS Vol. 75 Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert hotline is in service at 502-894- 9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updates the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money ( i.e ., up to $500) to assist them in conducting re¬ search on birds in Kentucky should contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Fund Committee c/o Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: Ferrebr@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form. Kentucky Bird Records Committee Rare bird sightings and birds observed out of season should be well docu¬ mented and the documentation should be sent to Lee McNeely, Secretary of the KBRC (P.O. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005) for consideration by the com¬ mittee for official state record status. K.O.S. Fall Meeting The Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be September 26-29 at Lake Cumberland State Park. Please make plans to attend. If you would like to make a presentation in the Friday evening program, contact Marilee Th¬ ompson, 2443 Old Kentucky 144, Owensboro, Kentucky 42303. K.O.S. Web Page Check out the K.O.S. web page prepared by the webmaster, Gary Ritchison at http://www.biology.eku.edu/kos.htm. It is a great way to keep up with what is happening with K.O.S. and birding around the state. The Kentucky Warbler (Published by Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL 75 _ AUGUST 1999 _ NO. 3 IN THIS ISSUE IN MEMORIA,M: ANNE L. STAMM . . . . . . . . . . 38 IN MEMORIAM: LEE KERN NELSON . 38 IN MEMORIAM: CHASTAIN L. FRAZER...... . 38 THE SPRING MIGRATION, 1999, Fred M. Busroe . 51 SEVENTH REPORT OF THE KENTUCKY BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE, Lee K. McNeely, Secretary . 48 FIELD NOTES . 50 NEWS AND VIEWS . 55 38 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 75 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corr. Secretary . . Treasurer . . Recording Secretary . Councillors: David Roemer, Bowling Green Kathryn Clay, Louisville . Darrin O’brien, Louisville . Hap Chambers, Murray . Retiring President . . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Marilee Thompson, Owensboro . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Mark Bennett, Russellville, KY . 1998-2000 . . . 1998-2000 . 1999-2001 . . . 1999-2000 . . ...Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER We thank our staff artist, Ray Harm, for this excellent print of an American Robin, Turdus migratorius. The editor apologizes for the poor quality of this print on the cover of the last issue of The Kentucky Warbler. The quality was completely the fault of the editor, not United Graphics.. 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 39 IN MEMORIAM: ANNE L. STAMM Anne L. Stamm, “the ‘First Lady’ of birding in Kentucky”, died July 23, 1999. It is very difficult to pay adequate tribute to a person who dedicated so much of her life to the growth and well-being of the Kentucky Ornitho¬ logical Society and to monitoring and protecting the avifauna of Kentucky. Anne served as an enthusiastic role model for so many amateur birders, yet could keep up with the best professionals. So often we do not recognize the contributions of a person until it is too late to do so in person. The Kentucky Ornithological Society is fortunate to have expressed its high regard for Anne and all of her contributions during the Fall 1992 meeting. See the tribute to Anne L. Stamm by Donald Summerfield in The Kentucky Warbler , 69:31. Anne has been a symbol of everything good about K.O.S. and she will be sorely missed by its members. The Kentucky Ornithologi¬ cal Society expresses its sincere sympathies to family and friends. IN MEMORIAM: LEE KERN NELSON Lee Kern Nelson of Owensboro, a retired wildlife biologist from the Ken¬ tucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, died Saturday, May 29, 1999. Fie was a member of Daviess County Audubon Society, the Sierra Club, the Nature Conservancy, the Wildlife Society and the Kentucky Or¬ nithological Society among other wildlife organizations. He was active and held offices in all. Lee Nelson was dedicated to and contributed much toward the preservation of Kentucky wildlife. The Kentucky Ornithologi¬ cal Society expresses sympathy to his family and friends. IN MEMORIAM: CHASTAIN L. FRAZER, SR. Chastain L. Frazer, a longtime member of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, died on January 23, 1999. One of his favorite pastimes was the winter count, especially seeing the eagles at Weston Bluff. He made sig¬ nificant contributions to monitoring the avifauna during these winter counts and was concerned about the decline of Red-tailed Hawks near Lexington in later years. The Kentucky Ornithological Society expresses its sincere sympathies to Chastain’s family and friends. 40 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 THE SPRING NIGRATION, 1999 Fred M. Busroe Weather conditions during the Spring Season were mild temperatures and nor¬ mal to slightly below normal precipitation. A number of important observations occurred during this season. These include an addition to Kentucky’s avifauna, multiple observations of the Eurasian Col¬ lared Dove at Owensboro and Hickman, the location of the first active nest in Kentucky of a Red-breasted Nuthatch in the Red River Gorge, and a Brown Peli¬ can at Kentucky Dam. Abbreviations - AJJ = A. J. Jolly Park, Campbell County; Bark = Barkley Dam, Livingston/Lyon counties.; BBG = Big Bone Creek, Boone County; Bel = Bellevue, Campbell County; BGP = Basel Griffin Park, Warren County; Bio = Blood River Embayment, Marshall County; Bre = Brent, Campbell County; Bur = Burlington, Boone County; Cal = Calloway County; Cam = Campbell County; Can = Caney vill Reservoir, Grayson County; CEL = Camp Ernst Lake, Boone County; Cool = Cool Springs, Ohio County; Cre = Joe Creason Park, Jefferson County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Rowan/Bath counties.; Falls = Falls of Ohio, Jefferson County; FtT = Ft. Thomas, Campbell County; Ful = Fulton County; Gray = Grayson County; Heb = Hebron, Boone County; Hib = Hickman Bottoms, Fulton County; Hie = Hickman, Fulton County; Hop = Hopkins County; Jef = Jefferson County; JMF = Jefferson County Memorial Forest; Jon = Jonathan Creek, Marshall County; Ky Dam = Kentucky Dam, Livingston/Marshall counties.; LBL = Land Between the Lakes, Lyon/Trigg counties.; LPew = Lake Pewee, Hopkins County; L#9 = Lake No. 9, Fulton County; Log = Logan County; Lou = Louisville, Jefferson County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; McL = McElroy Lake, Warren County; Mel = Meldahl Dam, Bracken County; MCFH = Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County; Mur = Murray, Calloway County; New = Newport, Campbell County; Open = Open Pond, Fulton County; Owen = Owensboro, Daviess County; PBF = Palmer-Ball farm, Jefferson County; Pet = Petersburg, Boone County; PWMA = Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Muhlenberg County; RRG = Red River Gorge, Powell/Wolfe counties.; RRSP= Rough River State Resort Park, Grayson County; SC = Short Creek, Grayson County; Sil = Silver Grove, Campbell County; SWMA = Sloughs Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County; Sle = Sledd Creek, Kentucky Lake, Marshall County; Smi = Southland Dam, Livingston County; WKUF = Western Kentucky University farm, Warren County. Common Loon - 5 at Jon on March 28 (Hap, CP); 3 on April 10 at CRL (FB ); 3 on April 27 at CEL (LMc); 1 on May 9 on Ohio River, Jef (DO). Horned Grebe - 4 on March 24 at Mel and 14 on April 6 at Bre (FR); 1 on April 10 at CEL (LMc) American White Pelican - 16 on April 1 at L#9 (CP). BROWN PELICAN - 1 on May 30 at Ky. Dam (BD, RD). Double-crested Cormorant - 1 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 7 on April 10 at Mel, 200 on April 17 on Ohio River, BBC (LMc); 224 on April 15 at Falls (RD); approx. 500 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 220 on April 23 at Falls (FR); 136 on April 24 at Falls (DO); 40 on April 25 at Mel (FR); 3 on May 18 at Falls (RD). 41 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Least Bittern - 1 on May 30 at SWMA (MB). Great Blue Heron - 1 50 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 50 on April 1 8 at LBL (C, Hap); 8, with some on nest, on Rough River, Gray (JP); 6 on May 13 at Falls (BPB); 7 on May 18 at Falls (FR). Great Egret - 6 on March 17 in Ful (Hap, CP); 10 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 60+ on April 1 1 in Ful (MB); 1 on April 25 at Sle (MM). Snowy Egret - 1 on May 13 at Falls (BPB); 1 on May 1 8 at Falls (RD). Little Blue Heron - 2 on April 11 in Ful (MB). Cattle Egret - 20+ on April 15 at Sle (MM). Black-crowned Night-Heron - 1 10 on April 23 at Falls (FR); 2 on April 24 at Falls (DO); 40 on May 6 at Falls (RD); 1 on May 13 at Falls (BPB). Snow Goose - 7 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP). Ross’ Goose - 1 on April 3 at BGP (FR). Wood Duck - 30 on March 1 1 at Mel (FR); 30 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 10 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB). Gadwall - 4 on March 20 at Heb (FR); 70 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 135 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB). American Wigeon - 20 on March 1 1 at Mel (FR); 100 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 4 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB ). American Black Duck - 30+ on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 15 on March 1 1 at Mel (FR). Blue-winged Teal - 6 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 5 on March 17 at BGP (LD); 200 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 200 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB); 4 on Gray farm pond and 12 at Can on April 17 with 16 in Gray on April 24 (JP). Northern Shoveler - Approx. 150 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 12 on March 20 in Lewis County (FR); 4 on April 7 and 4 on April 20 at LPew (JWH); 30 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB). Northern Pintail - 6 on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 20 on March 1 1 at Mel (FR); 1 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD). Green-winged Teal - 60+ on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 6 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 120+ on April 11 in Ful (MB). Canvasback - 2 on March 5 and 1 on March 1 1 at Mel (FR). Redhead - 4 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 4 on March 1 1 at Mel and 2 on March 17 in Cam (FR); 100 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD). Ring-necked Duck - 40 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 18 on March 17 at BGP (LD); 35 in Cam and 130 at AJJ on March 17 (FR). Lesser Scaup - 6 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 15 on March 1 1 and 205 on March 24 at Mel, 10 on March 15 and 20 on March 17 at AJJ and 80 on April 6 at Bre- 42 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 (FR); 254 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, (CP); 20 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap). White-winged Scoter - 2 on March 5, 1 1 and 20 at Mel (FR); 1 on April 10 (a late spring date) at Mel (LMc). Hooded Merganser - 2 on March 17 at McEl (LD); 20 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 33 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB). Common Merganser - 8 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, CP); 28 on April 14 at Sle (MM). Red-breasted Merganser - 8 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 1 1 on April 1 1 and 5 on May 9 at Falls (DO); 9 on May 1 1 at Falls (RD). Ruddy Duck - 10 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, CP); 39 on March 2 and 17 on April 17 at LPew (JWH). Osprey - 4 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, CP); 1 on April 7 in Gray (JP); 1 on April 10 at Mel (LMc); 2 on April 17 at Can (JP); 7 on April 17 at MCFH (FB); 12 on April 1 8 at LBL (C, Hap); 1 on April 19 in Hart (MS); 2 from April 19-28 at Sle (MM); 2 on April 24 at Bio (Hap); 1 on April 25 in Log (MB). Bald Eagle - 2 on March 6 at Bio (Hap); one on nest on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 1 immature on March 19 near Cool (RD); 2 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD). Northern Harrier - 7 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 1 at McEl and 10 in the Cool area on March 19 (RD); 2 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 1 female on March 20 at SWMA (BY). Sharp-shinned Hawk - 1 on March 7 at Bel (FR); 1 on March 8 in Hart (MS). Cooper’s Hawk - 1 on May 7 in Hart (MS); an active nest on May 10 at Bur (LMc, LyM). Broad-winged Hawk - 1 on April 1 1 in Trigg County (MB). Red-tailed Hawk - 4 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 15+ on March 19 in Cool area (RD). Rough-legged Hawk - 4 on March 7 at PWMA (MH); 1 on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 1 on March 19 in Cool area (RD). American Coot - 49 on March 2, 1 1 1 on March 18, 145 on April 7, 160 on April 14 and 72 on April 20 at LPew (JWH); 200 on April 6 at FtT (FR). Sandhill Crane - 42 on March 5 in Hart (MS); 88 on March 10 at SC (MH). Black-bellied Plover - 3 on May 3 at Falls (RD). American Golden-Plover - 6 on March 17 at McEl (LD); 2 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB); 98 on April 20 near Open (CP); 2 on May 30 at Hib (MB). Semipalmated Plover - 3 on May 9 at Falls (DO); 7 on May 18 at Falls (RD); as many as 29 between May 1 1-28 at MCFH (FB); 1 on May 30 at SWMA 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 43 (MB). Killdeer - 50 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD). American Avocet - 8 at Ky Dam (DR). Black-necked Stilt - 3 at Open (DR). Greater Yellowlegs - 60 on March 17 in Ful (CP, Hap); 10 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 2 on March 20 at SWMA (BY); 1 on March 23 in Clinton County (DC); 3 on March 28 in Log (MB); 50+ on April 1 1 in Ful (MB ); 2 on April 17-19 at MCFH (FB); 2 on April 24 at Gray farm pond (JP); 1 on May 8 in Jef (DO). Lesser Yellowlegs - 25 on March 17 in Ful (CP, Hap); 100 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 6 on March 20 at SWMA (BY); 100 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); approx. 500 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB); 7 on April 16 at MCFH (FB); 3 on May 8 in Jef (DO). Solitary Sandpiper - 1 on April 7 at LPew (JWH); 9 on April 11 in Hib (MB); 1 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap). Willet - 5 on May 12 at Ky. Dam (DR). Spotted Sandpiper - 3 on April 25 in Log (MB); 15 on May 9 at Falls (DO); 10+ on May 13 at Falls (BPB); 10 on May 18 at Falls (RD). Upland Sandpiper - 1 on April 8 at WKUF (DR). Whimbrel - 1 on May 28 at Smi (JW). Marbled Godwit - 1 on May 10 at Ky. Dam (DR). Ruddy Turnstone - 1 in breeding plumage on May 22 at Smi (MB). Sanderling - 1 on May 13 at Falls (BPB); 2 on May 18 at Falls (RD). Semipalmated Sandpiper - 2 on May 7 in Cal (MM); 2 on May 9 at Falls (DO); 3 on May 13 at Falls (BPB); 12 on May 1 8 at Falls (RD); 27 on May 26 at MCFH (FB); 34 at SWMA and 27 at PWMA on May 30 (MB). Least Sandpiper - 8 on May 9 at Falls (DO); 12-16 on May 24-27 at MCFH (FB). White-rumped Sandpiper - 200 on May 10-11 at Hib (DR); 3 on May 19 at MCFH (FB); 20 on May 30 at SWMA (MB). Baird’s Sandpiper - 2 on May 19 at MCFH (FB). Pectoral Sandpiper - 9 on March 17 at McEl (LD); 14 on March 19 at McEl (RD); 26 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); approx. 50 on March 20 at SWMA (BY); 48 on April 1 1 in Hib (MB); 2 on May 9 at Falls (DO). Dunlin - 10 on May 19 at MCFH (FB); 25+ on May 22 at Smi (MB). Stilt Sandpiper - 2 on May 30 at SWMA (MB). Common Snipe - 16 on March 17 at McEl (LD); approx. 160 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 1 on March 24 in western Cal (CM, KM); 2 on March 28 in Log (MB); 4 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB). Vol. 75 44 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ _ American Woodcock - 3 on March 17 in courtship flight at AJJ (FR). Wilson’s Phalarope - 1 on May 10 at Hickman Bottoms, Ful (DR). Laughing Gull - 2 adults at Ky. Dam and 1 immature at Bark on May 20 (DR). Bonaparte’s Gull - 25 on March 6 at Jon (Hap); 10 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 38 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, Jon); 15 on March 30 at Mel (FR); 10 on April 10 at Mel (LMc); 7 on April 10 at Falls (DO); 15 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 10 on April 28 at MCFH (FB). Herring Gull - 6 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, CP). Caspian Tern - 3 on April 1 1 and 2 on May 9 at Falls (DO); 2 on April 16 at MCFH (FB); 2 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 1 on May 13 at Falls (BPB). Forster’s Tern - 1 on March 7 at Bio (Hap); 12 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, CP); 2 on April 4 at Sle (MM); 6 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 2 on April 19 at New and 7 on April 25 at Mel (FR); 6 on April 24 at Bio (Hap). EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE - 1 on May 27 in Owen (MT, WT); 6 on May 30 in Hie (KOS). Yellow-billed Cuckoo - 2 on May 8 at JMF (DO); 1 on May 9 at SC (JP); 2 on May 12 near Mad (JWH). Great Horned Owl - 1 on March 10 in Gray (JP). Barred Owl - 1 on March 5 at Bio (Hap); 2 on April 5 in Hart (MS). Short-eared Owl - 7 on March 10 at PWMA (MH); 3 on March 19 in Cool area (RD). Chuck-will’s-widow - 2 on April 29 in Hop (DH); 1 on May 8-9 at SC (JP). Whip-poor-will - First heard in Allen County on April 6 (LD); 2 on May 1 1 at RRG (FR). Chimney Swift - 2 on April 18 in Lou (DO); 2 on April 22 at SC (JP). Ruby-throated Hummingbird - 1 on April 15 at feeder in Boyle County (NE, VE); 2 on April 23 in Lou (DO); 1 on April 24 at Bio (Hap). Acadian Flycatcher - 1 on May 27 on Ky. Rt. 715, RRG (FR). Eastern Wood-Pewee - 14 on May 8 at JMF (DO). Willow Flycatcher - 1 on May 8 at Pet (LMc); 1 on May 1 1 and May 1 8 at MCFH (FB); 2 on May 16 at PWMA and 1 on May 30 at SWMA (MB). Least Flycatcher - 1 on May 8 at JMF (DO). Great Crested Flycatcher - 4 on May 8 at RRSP (JP). Loggerhead Shrike - 2 on May 13 and May 30 at same location in Gray (JP). White-eyed Vireo - First heard in Hop on April 23 (JWH); 2 on April 24 at JMF (DO). Bell’s Vireo - 5-6 on May 16 at PWMA (MB). Blue-headed Vireo - 1 on April 21 at Bern and 2 on April 28 at Bel (FR); 5 on May 4, 3 on May 1 1 and a pair of adults feeding fledglings on May 1 1 RRG (FR). Warbling Vireo - 4 on April 1 1 in Ful (MB ); 1 on April 14 and 3 on May 2 at RRSP (JP); 4 on April 23 at LPew (JWH); 2 on April 23 at Mel (FR); 2 on May 8 in Lou (DO). 45 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Fish Crow - 1 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 1 on March 28 at Jon (Hap, CP); 3 on April 1 1 in Hib (MB); 6 on April 5 and 3 on April 21 at Sle (MM). Horned Lark - 2 on March 7 at PWMA(MH); 1 on March 10-11 in Cam (FR); 20 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD); 15 on March 24 in Mur (CM, KM); 2 on April 18 at RRSP (JP). Purple Martin - 5 in Gray on April 18 (JP). Tree Swallow - 40 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 17 on April 7 and 42 on April 14 at LPew (JWH); 200+ on April 17 at MCFH (FB); approx. 150 on April 1 7 at Can (JP); 25 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap). Northern Rough-winged Swallow - 25 on April 17 at Can (JP). Cliff Swallow - 30 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 12 on April 25 at Mel (FR); 3 on May 2 at RRSP (JP). Red-breasted Nuthatch - 6 on May 4, then a pair entering a nest hole on May 5-6 (FR), 1 1 (BPB, DD, FR), 12, 25, 27 near Rock Bridge, RRG (FR). This is the first active Kentucky nest site, the 1996 nest was discovered after the young had fledged. House Wren - 3 on May 8 at RRSP (JP). Winter Wren - 1 on April 19 in Log (MB). Marsh Wren - 1 on March 20 at SWMA (BY ). Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 1 on April 25 in Lou (DO). Veery - 2 on April 1 1 at LBL (MB); 1 on April 21 at Cre (DO); 1 on April 21 at Mel (FR). Gray-cheeked Thrush - 1 on May 16 at PWMA (MB). Swainson’s Thrush - 1 on April 25 in Lou (DO); several observations between April 27 and May 2 in Hop (JWH). Brown Thrasher - 1 on March 23 and 3 nestlings on May 10 at SC (JP). American Pipit - 25+ on March 19 at McEl (RD); 5 on March 20 in Ful (Hap, RD, CP); 40 on March 24 in Mur (CM, KM). Cedar Waxwing - Flocks of 12 to 50 in Gray during May (JP). Golden-winged Warbler - 1 on May 8 at JMF (DO). Tennessee Warbler - 1 on April 24 at JMF (DO). Nashville Warbler - 1 on April 25 in Lou (DO); 1 on April 29 at Bern (FR). Northern Parula - 8 on May 4 at RRG (FR);1 in Hib and 3 at LBL on April 1 1 (MB). Yellow-rumped Warbler - 3 on April 17 at Can (JP) 15 on April 18 at LBL (C, Hap); 10 on April 24 at Bio (Hap); 2 on May 2 at RRSP (JP). Black-throated Green Warbler - 20 on May 4 and 5 on May 26 at RRG (FR). Chestnut-sided Warbler - 1 on May 8 in Jef (DO). Magnolia Warbler - 3 on May 8 in JMF (DO). 46 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 Blackburnian Warbler - 1 on April 21 at Bern (FR); 1 on May 8 in JMF (DO). Yellow-throated Warbler - 1 on April 14 at SC (JP); 10 on May 4 and 20 on May 26 at RRG (FR). Pine Warbler - 2 on March 20 in Lewis County and 3 on April 22 at Bern (FR); 2 on April 14 and 1 on April 1 8 at SC (JP); 2 on May 27 at RRG (FR). Prairie Warbler - 1 on May 14 in Gray (JP); 4 on May 26 at RRG (FR). Palm Warbler - 1 on April 1 1 at Hib (MB); 1 on April 17 at Can ( JP); 9 on April 25 on PBF (DO); 1 on May 10 in Mad (JWH). Black-and-white Warbler - 3 on April 23 at Bern and 15 on May 4 with 20 on May 26 at RRG (FR) Prothonotary Warbler - 4 on April 1 1 in Hib (MB); 1 on April 20 at SC (JP); 4 on April 24 at Bio (Hap), 1 on April 26 at Sil (FR); 1 singing at a Hop pond from May 9- 13 (JWH). Worm-eating Warbler - 4 on April 21 at Bern and 3 on May 45 at RRG (FR). Swainson’s Warbler - 2 on May 4, 3 on May 5, 2 on May 1 1 , and 1 on May 24-28 at RRG (FR); 1 on May 14 in northwest Gray (JP). Northern Waterthrush - 1 on April 17 at Can (JP); 1 on April 22 at Bern (FR); 1 on April 25 in Log (MB). Louisiana Waterthrush - 1 on April 22 at Bern (FR); 2 on April 24 at Bio (Hap); 1 on April 30 at SC (JP); 4 on May 4 at RRG (FR). Kentucky Warbler - 3 on May 12 near Mad (JWH). Mourning Warbler - 1 male on May 1 1 at MCFH (FB). Hooded Warbler - 30 on May 4, 10 on May 26 and a nest with three eggs was located on May 27 at RRG (FR). Yellow-breasted Chat - 3 on May 12 in Hop (JWH). Summer Tanager - First spring observation in Hop on April 25 (JWH); 1 on May 14 in Gray (JP). Scarlet Tanager - First spring observation in Hop on April 27 (JWH). American Tree Sparrow - 2 on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 10 on March 10 at Sil and 20 on March 1 1 at Mel (FR). Lark Sparrow - 1 on April 1 1 in Hie (MB). Vesper Sparrow - 2 on April 21 at Cre (DO). Savannah Sparrow - 7 on April 25 in Oldham County (DO). Grasshopper Sparrow - 2 on April 14 in Log (MB); 1 on May 2 in Oldham County (DO). Henslow’s Sparrow - 2-3 on May 16 at PWMA (MB). Fox Sparrow - 1 on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 1 on March 7 at SC (JP); 2 to 3 present during March at Mad feeder (JWH). Swamp Sparrow - 1 on March 10 and on April 26 at Sil (FR). • ■ I 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 47 ■ - - — - - - - - - - - - White-throated Sparrow - Last seen on May 2 at SC (JP); last seen on May 10 in Mad (JWH). White-crowned Sparrow - 15 on March 7 at SWMA (DO); 1 on May 6 in Mad (JWH). Dark-eyed Junco - Still present in large numbers on April 6 at SC (JP); last seen on April 18 in Hop (JWH). Rose-breasted Grosbeak - 1 on April 18 at SC (MH); present in Mad from April 29 to May 6 (JWH); 1 on April 28 in Gray (JP). Blue Grosbeak - 1 male, 1 1 observations during May in Hart (MS). Bobolink - 2 on May 3 in Bourbon County (FR). Rusty Blackbird - Several observations on March 20 at SWMA (BY). Orchard Oriole - 2 on April 20 at SC (JP); 1 in Hop on April 28 (JWH); 2 on May 8 in Jef (DO). Baltimore Oriole - 1 on April 24-25 at SC (JP); 4 on April 25 in Jef (DO); first seen in Hop on April 26 (JWH). An important observation of an immature male Rose-breasted Grosbeak on De¬ cember 31, 1998 and January 3, 1999 by Joyce Porter at a Short Creek, Grayson County feeder was omitted in the Winter 1998-1999 report. Contributors - Fred Busroe (FB), Mark Bennett (MB), Hap Chambers (Hap), David Chaffin (DC), Dona Coates (C), Bonnie Dever (BD), Robert Dever (RD), David Dourson (DD), Lester Doyle (LD), Neil Ekland (NE), Virginia Ekland (VE), Darrell W. Hancock (DH), James W. Hancock (JWH), Mary Harrel (MH), KOS = Kentucky Ornithological Society field trip; Lee McNeely (LMc), Lynda McNeely (LyM), Mike Miller (MM), Carl Mowery (CM), Kathy Mowery (KM), Darrin O’Brien (DO), Brainard Palmer-Ball (BPB), Clell Peterson (CP), Joyce Porter (JP), Frank Renfrow (FR), David Roemer (DR), Mitchell Sturgeon (MS), Marilee Th¬ ompson (MT), Wendell Thompson (WT), Ben Yandell (BY). — UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351. 48 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 SEVENTH REPORT OF THE KENTUCKY BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE Lee K. McNeely, Secretary This report is the seventh from the Kentucky Bird Records Committee (hereafter KBRC), and covers actions completed during the calendar year 1998 and through June 1999. Members serving on the committee during this period were Blaine Ferrell, Wayne Mason, Lee McNeely, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., and Anne Stamm. The stated purpose of the KBRC is to determine the validity of records of rare birds within Kentucky, maintain the documentation for these records, and to publish a summary of the committee’s deliberations. During this period there were two rounds of circulation through the KBRC consisting of 25 individual records. Twenty-one of these were finalized, while four remain unresolved at this point. Accepted records: Pelecanus occidentalis. BROWN PELICAN. [#98-16] November 20, 1998, Ken¬ tucky Lake above Kentucky Dam, Marshall County (DR) [videotaped, first Ken¬ tucky record], Plegadis falcinellus. GLOSSY IBIS. [#98-9] May 17, 1998, McElroy Lake, War¬ ren County (MB, LD, DE, JE) [videotaped, first Kentucky record of Plegadis ibis accepted as to species]. Eudocimus albus WHITE IBIS. [#98-8] July 12, 1998, McElroy Lake, Warren County (DR). Elanus leucurus . WHITE-TAILED KITE. [#99-2] May 5, 1991, Hickman County (BPB, DP) [photographed, first Kentucky record]. Aquila chn’saetos. GOLDEN EAGLE. [#97- 1 6] November 2, 1 997. Meldahl Dam, Bracken County (DG) Aquila chrysaetos. GOLDEN EAGLE. [#98-2] March 1, 1998, Casey County (JK) Cotumicops noveboracensis. YELLOW RAIL. 1 #98- 15] October 28, 1998, Ohio County, (DR) Numenius phaeopus. WHIMBREL. [#98-6] May 19, 1998, McElroy Lake, War¬ ren County, (DR), [17 birds videotaped], Limosa fedoa MARBLED GODWIT. [#98-4] April 22, 1998. Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Rowan County, (FL, LK, BPB), [5 birds photographed] Phalaropus lobatus. RED-NECKED PHALAROPE. [#98-5] May 6, 1998, McElroy Lake, Warren County (DR) i 1999 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ 49_ Phalaropus fulicaria. RED PHALAROPE. [#98-12] October 18, 1998, Jonathan Creek, Marshall County (DR) [videotaped] Stercorarius pomcirinus . POM ARINe JAEGER. [#99-1] February 6, 1999, Barkley Dam, Lyon County (PB, JB, HC) [second Kentucky record] Lams minutus. LITTLE GULL. [#98-7] June 9-17, 1998, McElroy Lake, Warren County (DR, BPB) [photographed, first Kentucky record] Lams glaucoides. ICELAND CGULL. [#98- 1 5] November 2, 1997, Meldahl Dam, Bracken County (DG) Archilochus alexandri. BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD. [#99-5] Decern her 12-16, 1998, Reidland, McCracken County (CS, PM) [photographed and banded, first Kentucky record]. Selasphorus rufus. RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD [#99-3] November 23-December 30, 1998, Bardwell, Carlisle County (CS, PM) [photographed and banded] Selasphorus rufus. RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD. [#99-4] December 18, 1998 January 4, 1999, Lexington, Fayette County (CS, PM) [photographed and banded] Spizella pallida. CLAY-COLORED SPARROW. [#98-10]May 11,1998, Louisville, Jefferson County (DO) Ammod ramus nelsoni. NELSON’S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW. [#97-14] Oc¬ tober 8, 1997, McElroy Lake, Warren County (DR) Calcarius pictus. SMITH’S LONGSPUR. [#98-1] March 11-14, 1998, Open Pond. Fulton County (DR) [photographed and videotaped, first Kentucky record] Observers: Jane Bell (JB), Pat Bell (PB), Mark Bennett (MB), Fred Busroe (FB), Hap Chambers (HC), Lester Doyle (LD), Diane Elmore (DE), Jackie Elmore (JE), Darlena Graham (DG), J.W. Kemper (JK), Lewis Komman (LK), Portia Macmillan (PM), Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPB), Donald Parker (DP), David Roemer (DR), and Christopher Sloan (CS). Rejected records: Plegadis chihi. WHITE-FACED IBIS. [#97-6] September 6, 1996, Peabody Homestead Mine WMA, Ohio County. The current official Kentucky list now stands at 359 species (12 of which are by sight only), with Brown Pelican, White-tailed Kite, Little Gull, Black-chinned Hummingbird, and Smith’s Longspur added since the last report. All records of birds on the mandatory review list should be sent to the secretary of the KBRC, Lee McNeely, PO. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005. 50 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 FIELD NOTES Common Ravens Breeding in Knott County Mengel (1965) described the status of the Common Raven ( Corvus corax ) in Kentucky as imperfectly known but probably extinct. Although, it was probably widespread before the start of the 20th century throughout the Cumberland Plateau ( Mengel 1965). A population may have persisted in the remote parts of Powell, Wolfe, Laurel, Pulaski, Wayne, and McCreary counties until as recently as 1935 (Mengel 1949). The first modem account of Common Ravens nesting in Kentucky was in April 1984 when a nest was found at Bad Branch, Letcher County (Fowler et al. 1985). Stamm (1989) reported another nest at Bad Branch in 1989. While Common Ravens were observed in Knott County on two occasions in 1989, no evidence of breeding was observed (Palmer-Ball 1996). On March 14, 1998 a pair of Common Ravens was observed at the Cy¬ press Amax Wildlife Management Area ( WMA) in Knott County, Ken¬ tucky. One of the birds was carrying nesting materials toward a series of highwalls associated with an active mountain top removal project. Ap¬ proximately three weeks after this observation the highwalls were destroyed by continued mining and reclamation. Two adults were observed again in this area on May 22 and 23, 1998, but no other birds were seen. On March 23, 1999, a pair of Common Ravens was observed flying to¬ gether at the Cypress Amax WMA. On the morning of May 1 3, 1999, a pair of adults was seen in the same location feeding two begging fledglings along a strip mine highwall that was approximately 50 m high. Both the adults and fledglings vocalized and the young exhibited begging behavior. One adult carried a large unidentified food item in its bill which it deliv¬ ered to one of the fledglings. After approximately 10 minutes, both adults flew away leaving the fledglings perched on the highwall. On May 26, 1998, two adults and two fledglings were observed in a freshly reclaimed grassy field 4 km to the west of the previously mentioned highwall. Based on the temporal and spatial proximity of the above sightings we believe that this was a single family unit. The Common Raven in Kentucky is ob¬ served most frequently in the higher elevations of Big Black and Pine moun¬ tains, as well as the Cumberland Gap National Historic Park (Monroe 1 994). Our observation in Knott County is only the third confirmed account of breeding Common Ravens in Kentucky since it was extirpated during the 51 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER early 1900’s. Further, it represents a northwestward breeding expansion of 48 km. Reclaimed strip mines have been responsible for the eastward range ex¬ pansion of several grassland songbirds into eastern Kentucky, including the Dickcissel ( Spiza americana) (Jeff Larkin, unpub. data). Homed Lark ( Eremophila alpestris), and Grasshopper Sparrow ( Ammodramus savannarum ) (Palmer-Ball 1996). Additionally, Whitmore and Hall (1978) attributed the increase in abundance of the Grasshopper Sparrow, Homed Lark, Savanna Sparrow ( Passerculus sandwichensis). Vesper Sparrow (. Pooecetes gramineus ), and Eastern Meadowlark ( Stumella magna ) in West Virginia to an increase in suitable habitat created by reclaimed surface mines. Unreclaimed highwalls may be key landscape features that facilitate home range establishment of ravens dispersing from occupied range to the north and east. Further, the new landscapes with artificial cliff-lines may serve as a linkage between occupied range and extirpated range such as the Red River Gorge and the knob region of Kentucky. Palmer-Ball (1996) sug¬ gested that the natural cliffs and extensive forest of the western Cumberland Plateau could support the Common Raven. It is ironic that Bent (1946, cited by Mengel 1949) suggested that frequent human disturbance and blast¬ ing will cause ravens to abandon a locality. Blasting and intense use of machinery created the landscape features that apparently attracted ravens to the strip mine site in Knott County. Further surveys should be conducted to determine the importance of artificial cliff-lines to a potentially westward-expanding Common Raven population in Kentucky. Literature Cited Bent, A. C. (see Mengel 1949). Fowler, D.K., J.R. MacGregor, S.A. Evans, and L.E. Schaaf. 1985. The Common Raven returns to Kentucky. American Birds 39:852-53. Monroe, B.L., Jr. 1994. The Birds of Kentucky. Indiana University Press, Bloomington, IN. 146pp. Mengel, R.M.1949. Evidence of the history and former distribution of the raven in Kentucky. Kentucky Warbler 25: 1-6. Mengel, R.M.1965. The Birds of Kentucky. American Ornithologists’ Union Monograph No. 3. The Allen Press, Lawerance, KA. Palmer-Ball, B., Jr. 1996. The Kentucky Breeding Bird Atlas. The Univer¬ sity of Kentucky Press, Lexington, KY. 372pp. THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 52 Vol. 75 Stamm, A.L. 1989. The nesting season, summer 1989. Kentucky Warbler 65:8392. Whitmore, R. C., and G .A Hall. 1978. Response of passerine species to a new resource: reclaimed surface mines in West Virginia. American Birds 32:6-9. —Jeffery L. Larkin’, David S. Maehr’, Mattias Olsson2, and Per Widen2. ‘ ‘Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546-0073, 2 Department of Natural Sciences, University of Karlstad, Karlstad, Swe The Blue-headed Vireo at the Red River Gorge: A Successful Fledging and Other Records On May 12, 1999 I observed a very young Blue-headed Vireo ( Vireo solitarius), not yet able to fly, perched about five feet up on the branch of a small eastern hemlock ( Tsuga canadensis). My attention was called to the fledgling by the parents who had been vociferously protesting my presence as I was walking along the trail. After locating the bird, I took a number of photographs at close range as the parents came in and out to feed despite my being only a few yards away. While the parents were away finding insects, the young bird would tuck its head down into its breast feathers, appearing for all the world like a fluffy cotton ball stuck to the branch. As the parents approached with food it would come to life, gaping its mouth, quivering its wings and cheeping loudly until fed. This fledgling was along the Rock Bridge Loop. Wolfe County, Ken¬ tucky, about 1 5 feet from the trails. I had found a nest of this species along this same section of the loop on May 28, 1 998. A female Blue-headed Vireo was sitting on this nest, about 20 feet up in a hemlock at the end of a small branch next to the trail. The male was seen feeding the female in between periods of singing very close to the nest. On May 21, 1997, I found a female Blue-headed Vireo on a nest along the Double Arch Trail in Powell County, Kentucky. This nest was at eye level in a rhododendron ( Rhododendron maximum) and the male was sing¬ ing nearby. Also in 1997 I had a very early record of a singing male along Swift Camp Creek Trail, Wolfe County, Kentucky, on March 22. During an extensive survey of much of the Red River Gorge area during the last week of May 1999, I found this species to be well distributed in areas of suitable habitat in Wolfe, Menifee and Powell counties. —Frank Renfrow, 61 1 South O’Fallon Ave, Bellevue. KY 41073 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 53 An Active Nest of the Red-breasted Nuthatch at the Red River Gorge On May 5, 1999, I observed a pair of Red-breasted Nuthatches (Sitta canadensis ) at a nest hole in a half dead red maple ( Acer rubrum) located at the Rock Bridge area of the Red River Gorge in Wolfe County, Kentucky. This hole was on the main trunk about 40 feet up, just a foot below the broken-off top of the tree. The nest hole was about one inch in diameter with a similar hole, not as deep, a few inches above it. The pair had been engaged in incessant calling for several hours, a plain¬ tive whining “yna, yna, yna” with both the male and female taking turns at calling from a twig adjacent to the hole. Much wing flicking and bowing accompanied the calling. Upon my return early the next morning I found the female engaged in this same calling and wing flicking display. The female began to swipe its bill around the lip of the nest hole, when the male flew out of the hole. For the next three hours I watched as the female went in and out of the hole briefly about ten times and the male entered four times staying inside for up to five minutes at a time. The calling and wing flicking continued off and on. Both birds fed in the upper branches of the large white pines ( Pinas strobus) nearby, gleaning small insects from the needle clusters and under the loose bark of the dead limbs directly below.They also fed in the upper branches of nearby tulip trees ( Liriodendron tulipifera ) and eastern sy¬ camores ( Platanus occidentalis). They appeared to be in the early stages of nesting at this point, in a courtship phase just prior to incubation. I returned on May 1 1 and found the female to be spending much of the time sitting inside the hole as the male came at 20 minute intervals to feed the female. At this point I was joined by Brainard Palmer Ball, Jr. and Dan Dourson. Brainard observed a few droplets of resin at the edges of the nest hole. The next morning the female was looking out of the nest hole, the male came to the hole and the female departed. At this point the resin was be¬ coming more obvious at the lip of the hole. Activity at the nest continued with the female in the hole for prolonged periods throughout the morning hours. Several times during these observations I heard a curious call, very soft and continuous, somewhat intermediate between the soft tremolo of an Eastern Screech- Owl ( Otus asio ) and the call of the American Toad (Bufo 54 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Vol. 75 americanus). I suspected that it might be coming from the nuthatches. This notion was confirmed when I returned on May 25 with my wife Veronica. Veronica first observed the male sitting on a white pine twig near the nest tree, while engaged in “singing” this strange song of 30-40 seconds dura¬ tion, several times. We wondered if this might actually be the true territo¬ rial song of the male, completely unlike typical calls of this species. During my observations on May 25 and 27 it appeared that the female was still incubating, although it is very possible that there may have been young in the nest. The resin was now coating the bottom of the nest hole lip. I was able to obtain photographs of the male at the nest hole during this trip. The male was also seen at a small hole in a dead limb of a nearby white pine. Pine resin was exuding from the base of that limb, a possible source of the nest hole resin. I was unable to return to Rock Bridge until the June 9. 1 was disappointed to find that the nest hole had been completely dug out to over a two-inch diameter. The musky odor of a mammalian carnivore was evident at the base of the tree and it is very likely that this nest was destroyed by a preda¬ tor, although it is possible that the young had fledged earlier considering the 1 3 day lapse in my observations. I did find a male Red-breasted Nuthatch on June 9 and 10 near the Rock Bridge loop trail head. Despite the outcome of this nesting, there has been evidence of success¬ ful fledgings at Rock Bridge for the previous three years. A population of an estimated three to four pairs seems to be established in the deep, shel¬ tered coves with extensive stands of mature white pine in close proximity to Rock Bridge. I have been unable to find any other areas at the Red River Gorge with this species, and indeed this seems to be the only area where the white pines dominate almost from the stream bed all the way up to the ridge tops. White pines are particularly important to the Red-breasted Nuthatch as a source of resin to coat the nest hole. It is a matter of speculation as to whether this population is of recent origin or not. It is of interest to note that William Roscoe Thomas, in his book Life Among the Hills and Mountains of Kentucky ( 1926 ), mentions “a vast forest of the finest white pine” in his account of Wolfe County. I have found another nesting population of this species at Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. This is a northern outlier of the Cliff Section of the Cumberland (Allegheny) Plateau (E. Lucy Braun, Deciduous Forests of Eastern North 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 55 America, 1950), about 120 miles northeast of The Red River Gorge. These unique areas, both well known for their scenic beauty, may harbor the only two nesting populations of Red-breasted Nuthatches existing within the unglaciated section of the Cumberland (Allegheny) Plateau. — Frank Renfrow, 611 South O’Fallon Ave., Bellevue, KY 41073. NEWS AND VIEWS Reminder of the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline Remember, the Kentucky Rare Bird Alert Hotline is in service at 502- 894-9538. Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. regularly updateds the tapes with your reports of unusual bird sightings from around the state. Help support this service with your reports. K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Grant Fund Persons that need money (i.e., up to $500) to assist them in conducting research on birds of Kentucky shoud contact the K.O.S. Burt L. Monroe, Jr. Avian Research Committee do Blaine Ferrell, Department of Biology, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101 (email: blaine.ferrell@wku.edu) for a set of guidelines and an application form. K.O.S. Fall Meeting The Fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society will be Sep¬ tember 24 and 25 at Lake Cumberland State Park. Please make plans to attend. If you would like to make a presentation during the Friday evening meeting, contact Marilee Thompson, 2443 Old Kentucky 133, Owensboro, Kentucky 42303. K.O.S. Web Page Visit the K.O.S. web page prepared by webmaster, Gary Ritchison at http://www.biology.eku/kos.htm. It is a great way to keep up with what is happening with K.O.S. and birding around the state, as well as links to 56 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER other birding web pages. Vol. 75 Kentucky Bird Records Committee Rare bird sightings and birds observed out of season should be well documented and the documentation should be sent to Lee McNeely, Secre¬ tary of the KBRC (RO. Box 463, Burlington, Kentucky 41005) for consid¬ eration by the committee for official state record status. \V* i*M The Kentucky Warbler (Published by Kentucky Ornithological Society) VOL. 75 NOVEMBER 1999 NO. 4 IN THIS ISSUE IN MEMORIAM: GENE BOAZ, by Hap Chambers . 59 THE SUMMER SEASON, 1998, Fred M. Busroe . 59 1999 SUMMARY OF KENTUCKY HERONRIES, Brainard Palmer- Ball, Jr., and Steve Thomas . 62 THE FALL MEETING OF THE K.O.S., Mark Bennett . 71 FIELD NOTES . 73 NEWS AND VIEWS . 76 58 The Kentucky Warbler Vol. 75 THE KENTUCKY ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY President . Vice-President . Corr. Secretary . Treasurer . . . Recording Secretary . . . Councillors: David Roemer, Bowling Green Kathyrn Clay, Louisville . Darrin O’brien, Louisville . Joyce Porter, Falls of Rough .... Retiring President . . Wendell Kingsolver, Carlisle . Marilee Thompson, Owensboro . Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Old Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40222 . Lee McNeely P.O. Box 463, Burlington, KY 41005 . Mark Bennett, Russellville, KY . 1998-2000 . 1998-2000 . 1999-2001 . 1999-2001 . Wayne M. Mason, Bowling Green 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 $8.00; Contribut¬ ing, $15.00; Student $4.00; Life, $100.00; Family, $2.00 in addition to Regular, Contributing or Life Membership dues; Corporate. All articles and communica¬ tions should be addressed to the editor. Subscriptions, memberships and request for back issues should be sent to the Treasurer. Editor . B.R. Ferrell, Biology Department, Western Kentucky Univ. Bowling Green, 42101 Editorial Advisory Board Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Secretary, Kentucky Bird Records Committee . Lee McNeely P.O. Box463, Burlington, KY 41005 THE COVER The K.O.S. thanks Bud Tindall for providing the photograph of Great Blue Herons (Ardea herodias) at the nest in memory of his good friend and associate, member Gene Boaz, who recently passed away (see IN MEMORIAM) 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 59 IN MEMORIAM: GENE BOAZ Gene Boaz, owner of Nature 's Images by Gene Boaz , President of the Jackson Purchase Audubon Society and member of the Kentucky Ornithological Society, died September 30, 1999. He spent 41 years actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America. A scholarship fund for boy scouts is continuing in his name. Donations can be made to the Gene Boaz Scholarship, PO. Box 487, Owensboro, Kentucky 42302. Gene was a certified rehabilita- tor for birds of prey. He enjoyed photographing birds and rehabilitating injured birds. Gene was a professional photographer, but he was always willing to allow his images to be used free of charge by KOS, Land Between the Lakes, the Boy Scouts of America, and many other worthy causes. His business is being continued by his wife Denise Boaz in Benton, Kentucky. He left over 100,000 images of birds and other wildlife. KOS will miss Gene Boaz and expresses its sincere sympathies to Denise Boaz and family. THE SUMMER SEASON, 1999 Fred M. Busroe The weather in June and July was unusually warm with the entire state under drought conditions. The drought conditions certainly had an effect on bird populations. In spite of the dry conditions some interesting observations were made such as the Eurasian Collared-Dove in western Kentucky and nesting Spotted Sandpipers at the Falls of the Ohio. The last known Spotted Sandpiper nesting at the Falls was 27 June 1993. Publication of any unusual siqhting of birds in the seasonal report does not imply that these reports have been accepted as records for the official checklist of Kentucky Birds. Decisions regarding the official Kentucky list are made by the KBRC and will be reported periodically in the The Kentucky Warbler. Abbreviations - WMA = Wildlife Management Area; AJJ = A.J .Jolly Park, Campbell County; Ball = Ballard County; BWMA = Ballard WMA, Ballard County; Bar = Barren River Lake, Barren County; BG = Bowling Green, Warren County; Bio = Blood River Embayment, Calloway County; Breck = Breckenridge County; Bur = Burlington, Boone County; CCSP = Carter Caves State Park, Carter County; CRL = Cave Run Lake, Bath/ Menifee/Rowan cos.; Din = Dinsmore Woods, Boone County; Falls = Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County; Ful = Fulton County; GCA - Greater Cincinnati Airport, Boone County; Gri = Basil Griffin Park, Warren County; H ic = Hickman, Fulton County; KyDam = Ken¬ tucky Dam, Livingston/Marshall cos.; Bark = Lake Barkley; Livingston/Lyon/Trigg cos.; LBL = Land Between the Lakes, Lyon/Trigg cos.; L#9 = Lake Number 9, Fulton County; Lew = Lewis County; Mad = Madisonville, Hopkins County; MDP - Middle Creek Park, Boone County; Muhl = Muhlenberg River, Muhlenberg County; Old = Oldham County; Open = Open Pond, Fulton County; Par = Paradise, Muhlenberg County; PWM A = Peabody WMA, Muhlenberg/Ohio cos.; Pine = Pine Bluff Shores, Calloway County; Red = Red River Gorge, Menifee/Wolfe cos; Sin = Sinking Springs, Calloway County; Smi = Smithland Dam, Livingston County; Warn = Warren County. Common Loon - 1 at KyDam on June 1 and one on J uly 4 at Bar (DR). Horned Grebe - 1 on June 29 at KyDam (Hap). Vol. 75 60_ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER Eared Grebe - 1 on June 25 at Gri (LD, DR), American White Pelican - 83 on June 30 at L#9 (JTE). Great Blue Heron - 25 on June 26 at Bio and 17 at Open on June 26 (Hap). Great Egret - 1 on July 27-31 at AJJ (FR). Snowy Egret - 1 on July 11 in Ful (Hap), Little Blue Heron - 21 immatures on July 2 at Pine (Hap, JTE); 2 on July 18 at LBark (DO); 1 immature on July 31 at AJJ (FR) Cattle Egret - Approximately 200 on July 18 at Lbark (DO). Black-crowned Night-Heron - 43 on July 17 at LBL, Bark, and KyDam (Hap, CP). Bufflehead - An adult male on June 1 at KyDam (DR). Ring-necked Duck - 2 adult males on July 12 at PWMA (DR). Red-breasted Merganser - 1 on July 18 at Smi (DO). Ruddy Duck - 13 on July 17 at LBL area (Hap, CP) . Osprey - 4 on July 2 at Pine (Hap, JTE); 13 on July 17 at LBL, Bark, KyDam area (Hap, CP). Mississippi Kite - 4 on June 12 in Ful (Hap.CP); 6 on June 27 at Open and 4 on July 1 1 in Ful (Hap); 1 to 2 birds between July 12-25 (four dates) PWMA (DR); 3 on July 18 at BWMA (DO). Bald Eagle - 1 on July 11 in Ballard County (Hap, CP); 1 on July 18 at BWMA (DO). Cooper’s Hawk - 2 on June 7 in Breck (DO). , Broad-winged Hawk - 1 on June 29 at CCSP (FR). American Kestrel - 8 on July 18 at Par (DO). American Coot - 1 present through the season at Gri (DR). , American Golden-Plover - 2 on June 22 at open (Hap). Semipalmated Plover - 1 on June 19 at Par (MB, DR). Piping Plover - 1 on June 16 and 18 at Par (DR); 1 on July 18 at Par (DO). Black-necked Stilt - 3 on June 1 at Open (DR); 2 on June 12 in Ful (Hap, CP), and 2 on June 22 at Open (Hap). American Avocet - 1 on July 16 at Par (DR). Greater Yollowlegs - 1 on July 16 at Par (DR). Lesser Yellowlegs - 1 on July 6 at Par (DR); 8 on July 18 at Par (DO); 4 on July 31 at Par (MB). Solitary Sandpiper - 12 on July 27 and 5 to 6 on July 29-31 at AJJ (FR); 1 on July 25 at Par (MB). Spotted Sandpiper - 2 adults were observed regularly during June and July with 2 downy young observed on Jjuly 12 at Falls (DC, RD). Upland Sandpiper - 1 on June 27 at Open (Hap). Semipalmated Sandpiper - 1 on July 18 at Par (DO); 5 on July 2 at Par (MB). Western Sandpiper - 2 on July 16 at Par (DR); 1 on July 18 at Par (DO). Least Sandpiper - 1 on July 6 at Par (DR) ; 9 on July 27 and 6 on July 31 at AJJ (FR); approximately 70 on July 25 and 80 on July 31 at Par (MB). Baird’s Sandpiper - 2 on July 25 and 1 on July 31 at Par (MB) Pectoral Sandpiper - 1 on July 7 in Ful (DR); 1 on July 31 at AJJ (FR); 7 on July 25 at Par (MB); 20 on July 31 at Par (MB). 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 61 Stilt Sandpiper - 1 on July 19 at Par (DR). Short-billed Dowitcher - 1 on July 14 at Par, PWMA (MB); 5 on July 16 at Par (DR). Laughing Gull - 1 second-year bird at KyDam on July 7 (DR). Ring-billed Gull - 15+ on June 2 at Falls (RD). Bonaparte’s Gull - 1 on June 2 at Falls (RD). Caspian Tern - 1 on July 25 at Par (MB). Forster’s Tern - 2 on June 2 at Falls (RD), Least Tern - 2 on June 12 in Ful (Hap, CP); 3 on July 18 at Muhl (DO). Black Tern - 1 on June 2 at Falls (DR); 1 on July 18 at Par (Do). EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE - 1 on June 1 at Hie (DR); 1 on June 3 at BG (JE, RD), 2 on June 12 in Ful and 4 on July 5 in Ball (Hap, CP); 4 on July 1 1 in Ful (Hap). No documentation has been submitted to the KBRC. Barn Owl - 2 on July 24 (SK) and 3 on July 25 in Hart (DR). Chuck- will’s-widow - 4 on June 7 Breck (DO). Acadian Flycatcher - An adult on nest on June 12 at MCP (LMc); 5 on July 19 at PWMA (DO). Willow Flycatcher - 2 on June 7 in Old (DO). Bell’s Vireo - 4 singing in Ohio County on Juy 14 (DR). Blue-headed Vireo - 2 on June 9 and 5 on June 10 at Red (FR) Cliff Swallow - 100 on July 5 at Ball (Hap, CP); 500 on July 11 in Ful (Hap); 350 on July 17 at Bark and KyDam (Hap, CP). Red-breasted Nuthatch - 1 male on June 9 at Rock Bridge Trail, Red (FR). Brown Creeper - 1 singing on June 9 on Rock Bridge Trail, Red (FR). Wood Thrush - 12 on June 10 at Red (FR). Chestnut-sided Warbler - 1 June 10 at CRL and 1 on June 30 in Lew (FR). Black-and-white Warbler - 10 on June 10 at Red (FR); 1 on June 12 at Din (LMC). Swainson’s Warbler - 1 on June 9 at Red (FR). . Louisiana Waterthrush - An adult feeding young on June 12 at MCP (LMC); 4 on June 30 at CCSP (FR). Lark Sparrow - 1 on June 15-16 in Warn (DR). Savannah Sparrow - 2 singing on June 19 at GCA (LMc). Grasshopper Sparrow - 2 were singing July 24 at Par, PWMA (MB). Rose-breasted Grosbeak - A male in song on June 12 at Din (LMC). Blue Grosbeak - Numerous observations of adults and fledged young in Camp (FR) Dickcissel - A total of 21 were observed during the period near Mad (JWH). Baltimore Oriole - Nest with young during early June at Bur (LMc). Correction - The Fall 1998 report recorded two Whip-poor-wills at Joe Creason Park, Jefferson County, this shoud have been two Common Nighthawks. Contributors - Mark Bennett (MB), Hap Chambers (Hap), Dona Coates (DC), Robert Dever (RD), Lester Doyle (LD), Jackie Elmore (JE), JoeT. Erwin (JTE), James W. Hancock (JWH), Steve Kistler (SK), Lee McNeely (LMc), Darrin O’Brien (DO), Clell Peterson (CP), Frank Renfrow (FR), and David Roemer (DR). - UPO 1352, Morehead State University, Morehead, Kentucky, 40351. 62 _ THE KENTUCKY WARBLER _ Vol. 75 1999 Survey of Kentucky Heronries Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. and Steven Thomas In 1999 the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission (KSNPC) and the Nongame Wildlife Program of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Re¬ sources (KDFWR) conducted a joint survey of most of Kentucky’s known heron¬ ries. A majority of the sites were surveyed by helicopter overflights on June 4-5 1999, and the most current information for additional sites was gathered from a variety of other sources. The 1999 aerial survey was conducted similarly to the last one conducted by KSNPC and KDFWR in 1994 (Palmer-Ball and Wethington. Kentucky Warbler 70:77-83, 1994). Nesting colonies were circled several times, and the number of active nests was estimated by noting the presence of incubating adults, young, and/or white-wash beneath nests. In addition, nests were scanned for detection of species other than Great Blue Herons ( Ardea herodias). As in 1994, the survey was conducted late enough in the season to detect the presence of species like Great Egret ( Ardea alba), Double-crested Cormorant ( Phalacrocorax auritus) and Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga ) that do not commence nesting as early as Great Blues. A more accurate count of Great Blue nests could be obtained before the appear¬ ance of leaves in early spring, but rarer species would likely be absent. Results for the 1999 survey are presented in Table 1 ; they are arranged roughly by geographic location from northeast to southwest in the state. Only one site checked in 1994 was not checked in 1999: the Black-crowned Night-Heron (. Nysticorax nysticorax) colony on Lake Barkley at Taylor Bay, Trigg County, lastknown to be active in 1994, but now abandoned in favor of a new site on the lake near Kuttawa, Lyon County. The 1999 total of approximately 2.235 nesting pairs of Great Blue Herons represents an increase of nearly 28% over the 1994 total of 1,750 pairs. In addition. Great Blues nested at no less than 48 distinct sites in 1999, a two-fold increase over the 1994 total of 24 sites. Most of the new colo¬ nies are small sites that have been found in central Kentucky, but several new sites have been discovered in the western part of the state, including a few located during the June 4-5, 1999 overflight. Of the 24 active Great Blue Heron nesting colony sites surveyed in 1994, 21 remained active (although at least six had moved slightly), and three were found to be abandoned in 1999. Of the 21 sites that remained active, nine had increased in numbers, eight had decreased in numbers, and four had remained fairly stable since 1994. In addition, three old sites that were surveyed but not active in 1994 were found to be recolonized, eight sites that have been discovered since 1994 were surveyed and found to be active, and 15 new sites were reported for the first time in 1999. One observation of considerable interest was the presence of at least 100 recently used (i.e. 1997 or 1998?) heron/egret nests at the former site of “Ken 1999 THE KENTUCKY WARBLER 63 tucky Cranetown” on the Long Point Unit of Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge in western Fulton County. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, this nesting colony harbored large numbers of Great Egrets, some Double-crested Cormorants and the state’s only known nesting Anhingas. Reestablishment of this heronry would greatly increase potential for the latter two species to nest in Kentucky again. This site will be monitored closely in future years. It was disappointing that the number of colonies where Great Egrets were found nesting had not increased since 1994. The species had abandoned the two sites where they were found in 1994 (Axe Lake, Ballard Co. and Middle Bar, Hickman Co.), but they were found at two new sites (Jenny Hole-Highland Creek Unit of Sloughs WMA, Union Co. and Mayfield Creek, Ballard Co.). Unfortunately, the number of nesting pairs of Great Egrets has decreased from 25+ in 1994 to prob¬ ably less than 15 in 1999. The number of nesting Black-crowned Night-Herons remains relatively stable; however, based on the presence of adults at scattered sites in the Land Between the Lakes area, we feel certain that at least one as yet undiscovered nesting colony exists somewhere in that region. The Louisville Zoo harbored a thriving popula¬ tion of Black-crowneds in 1994, but the birds lost favor in subsequent years when they began to prey upon young of some of the zoological collections. Unfortu¬ nately, a recent effort by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to move the nesting birds off the zoo grounds has resulted in a great reduction in the numbers of nest¬ ing birds. A few birds have relocated to residential areas near the zoo, but there, too, they have not been well received by local residents. It is frustrating that the birds will not return to nearby Shippingport Island where the colony thrived from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s. Black-crowned’s that nested in the vicinity of Winchester, Clark County, in the early 1990s disappeared in the mid-1990s and have not been relocated. The state’s most diverse heronry now exists on an island in northern Lake Barkley, near Kuttawa, Lyon County. Black-crowned Night-Herons and Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis) initiated nesting at this island in 1996, and a few Little Blue Her¬ ons ( Egretta caerulea) were found nesting there in 1997. The presence of at least two adult Snowy Egrets (Egretta thula ) at this colony in 1999 was believed to confirm the nesting of this species in Kentucky for the first time. The numbers of nesting Cattle Egrets and Little Blue Herons are currently much higher at this site than have ever been documented elsewhere in the state. We would like to thank Wayne Davis and Kirk Greenfield (KDFWR), Roseanna Denton, Gay Hodges, and David Roemer (Kentucky Ornithological Society), Charles Elliott (Eastern Kentucky University), Marc Evans and Deborah White (KSNPC), Randell Gibson (Bakerton, Ky.), Ed Hartowicz (Lexington, Ky.), Silbert Hartis (Bowling Green, Ky.), Richard Kessler and John Palis (Ky. Chapter of The Nature Conservancy), Steve Kickert (U.S. Forest Service), Don Livingston (Ky.Division of Air Transport), Joe Meiman (Mammoth Cave National Park), Robert Meyers (U.S. Dept, of Agriculture), Ed Ray (Cadiz, Ky.), and Robert van Hoff (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District) for providing us with current Table I. 1999 Summary of Kentucky Heronries. ON ON C3 £ "O 15 03 C/3 O g o c ■S c u u 2 > > S* a n Z M S3 >, >. £ g « <-> -c n. = e 5 a ° U C/3 ^ 0) c £ .2 •S “3 *£ ^ <7 cn 3 O Si u OJ > 1 “O ts o . Q- o 0 ^ is o £ >> u .2? 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Bull Run, Ohio Co. 6.05.99 GBH 8 Up from 2-4 nests in 1994. Ben’s Lick, Ohio Co. 6.05.99 GBH - Abandoned; first and last reported active in 1998 by Don Livingston (Ky Div. of Air Transport) with 20-30 nests present. Site Date Species No. nests Remarks Hooper Creek wetland, Muhlenberg Co. 6.05.99 GBH 30+ New colony; first reported in spring 1999 by Kirk *3 £ ^ 2 *- on (D X ON *- o — on O G £ £ «n u « t e e c - 2 ° tz o >- o. U E D a u u — >. — C3 £ ^ JC W) “O 0) t: o CL *o ■o g -t g ON 3 c/3 CD cd cj J3 c C ^ S O cd u ss W o £ Cl , 3 ^ 3 o Qi O 0^0 cj f7 cj £ Q £ D s X CJ o o 3 ON Cl C/5 £ ON ON 3 + C/5 3 0) Q£ jr +3 O rrj m m E .o 2 "o C; oj C > O 5 Q* O 5 ■= _D 1) •O .? ^ u > £ X CD u 6 o JC cd u_ o o > U X * a a *3 3 — D 2 ; O X . >s I 3 . c ; Q o JC cd W c 1 -2 0) c X D mO ° 3 44 U £ .2 53 ^ S tz M O X c c ^ D ^ ? CL O X O o >N > Xl D C (U aj 5 •o w (U cd cd H U tt- U- Q cd o sd M •— ^ DC a. u. o « I CO g S) •o •£ 2 CL H on 3 O f I ^ cd d> c/3 § g c £ o ^ c n w C /3 > d> Q. C/3 S-8 s1! - X £ < bO o E o Tfr Os Os >> a o cb QQ u. O — i £ t— £ d> c/3 Cb w £2 O X +1 O E X E x E 3 C oo oo os Os Os Os Os .52 ^ — X X X 1 § X CJ "o 2 c _ g X ,0 bD 3 . d> O -O X w 03 w 03 w cb bo g = E X cb c/3 — 03 • — bo c £ O d) T3 U 'O sJ w cb c/3 o3 . 3 CJ W O C X X d> 73 d> £ d> <— * Cb ■*— i • d) g c -J in o .5£ o CL x TJ u" ^ P £ E O £2 CL CJ d> c t— •*- +-* d> C/3 ■> *- 3 ■ — Cb U- X bo O C CJ U 0u z co >> X o CL d> c/3 <3 »n . „ ON T3 ON d> — e TO d> Cb C o $ ov 5 av 5 "5) ^ § § -O U — o u C/3 03 t— c -a 2 — 1) C3 tC Z a. 53 d> X C £ o TO d> •X Tj* C/3 QN 5 2 C cb - _ x £ cb c/3 • CL g C bD d> .£ . c u ca T •*— * X 2 jo c/3 li. Jr? *— • C/3 c d> c ^ t- nO = E cb O J — d> . , X TO bO «u o 1 TO c bO ^3 03 to c + o , °? o i/T o + o o + o + (N + to CN 03 X oa X X z ca 2 J CZI bJO C U-, J CJ 2- .-3 E U U c ri o U 6 bD U W) c £ o H >v uT J o r- - ^ a: s £ £ o o X U bo — 1 1 5/3 6 C (J cb ^ cc c > =3 C C3 -2 Z o a 2 < oo ^ It— ^ O w C/2 N> 0) * £ d d > GJ '-*— ■ Q. O 2 C Q- mO > O H o c £ ° GO jU X3 cn .. CO £ £ -2 •„■ o > u « z a. C/3 C/3 o w on ^2 On "on — GJ "O ,c C GO •- JO l I o c S3 — •a “ £ Q iS z ^■o c ^ u % g -§ M u c o -3 S3 _] >*■ r* e < U c < 0 2 e ■ 5 rS i- cn ^3 — C co c E O GO O x o g 03 £ « cn eg £ o >- .d >n « s * ■ cn TO GO si C cn GO eg cn ~ £ ^ o C > .2 o o Q. U 0 St .. ON ?0 X- 4- 2 o CO ^ d ^ « £ GO O JA .»- C3 ^ “ C .£ £ S3 O £ "3 +1 >N ° O m £ - £ 4- .d c 5/5 I c -§ o . . o < 0 $ GO £ Z GO : eg St >>-> O' £ “ — 00 * C O' < •- 2 -O o GJ CN C > »n £ o til -3 c I u O S C O w GO w X cn TO ^ 3 O c .2 « JJ d CO GO > d on GO „2 w c.2 S U cn W OO cG 5n cn jz GO || CO co X' 5 § C w ^ c tn GO S3 cn — 2 D. 2- &■ a ■ § - GO >* g c O o — ca _ -O g ^ § + GO •*“* 2 So £ o §«2 i 1 5 «i o CJ o -o Cl. 0 § Z a. £ 00 ^2 o Z + o o u £ u ii 73 cr S o U >. S3 o U U 4) .oS IS u u y = c r1- n n U j= jz >= e w s « g cc 2 ^ ^t CN r9 ^n U eg C3 C £ ‘eg O D. « ■§ U o o U c GO 4^ «£ u . GO O -x GO > GO o o £ 2 03 O U £ CO GO 2 ^ o U u o u a < os 2 CJ 6 "s < = o U -2*3 U 3 £ 0 u 2 eg X eg X C GJ 0 -X Q > cn G S JJ. CJ _3*2 X X £ 0 S3 X eg X cn GJ 13 cn M 0 X GJ X < eg X Site Date Species No. nests Remarks Buck Lake, Ballard Co. 6.04.99 GBH - Remains abandoned; last reported active in 1991 with ca 20 nests. Minor Lake, Ballard Co. 6.04.99 GBH -- Abandoned; first and last reported active in 1997 by Wayne Davis (KDFWR) with 24 nests. 2 .2 cd 2 CO e == •o la ^ > ca "a E § oi £ '§ ® S' ■ a , « 2 On •£ 2 O' 1_ (U 1 O <3 ’cd I -= C c o ,2 c o o U U bO c ‘5b b& o — s 4= c •- C ca s 3 « 2 3 TD C C/5 ' ” tL > 3 i - C/5 C cd crO o u c o “ .2 o i: xi 5 ” O oj .2 c Z £ o cd O & > g 22 £ D. (N a. 2 §■ E o O c/5 cd jC tI* Os Os E o , t— . c o Q 51 + DC IT5 +1 o O SO cni "7 o df m in X X X X X X X CQ PJ CC CQ CQ PJ CQ CQ CQ a a a a □ a a a a ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON On ON ON ON ON ON t S 3 3 3 3 3 so d NO NO NO NO NO NO O 6 U U a d -a cd cd 6 E U G -g c cd CQ 2 X C/5 £ *5 T3 o t— i cd C u P £ u uT cd 2 1) C/5 * eo o nE ca -J ■§- 4) 73 cd ■S 3 -o 2 £ 2 2 : >- “O c cd »-n oo*- CO CN CO in D >- >- c QJ 0> £ gj 6 U o L— O tu X) c CO z M cd M g E (U u CJ U U C £ c c o .2 o 15 r- o -5 6 15 O m O U O Co. relocated to new sites on upper Obion Creek (see previous entry). Little Bayou de Chien, Fulton Co. 6.04.99 GBH - Remains abandoned; last reported active in 1990 with 5 nests (see next entry). Table 1 continued. a £ QJ X z © z 3 O C 3 CD £ £ O' 0) — -o 0) O U- Q- 3 0) TO T3 cS a * n •— c O C/5 > O 3 > 13 o 2 • - *“ > J o . - >% 3 C O ° o o o u c $ .2 u j= Z U .2 2 1 Cl ^ Cl fT “ Q o id S' ^ I ■“ o C4 o O < 2 ^ 03 S. 73 £• i) l3 ■*- L _C g u- O O Q. C- 0) “O ^ O C/5 ^ — s "S 8 § CL C .. 03 £ -2 ..2 3 -C 03 U X o. 03 UJ a o *t . O ' vd c U. o CL Ml C O J 2 O U u c £ .2 2 -£ "2 O CL u o 0C u X = CO -5 a C i? 2 ^5 5 S2 "H W) w 5 I' i § ec oo UJ II 3 PJ ts c/a C3 . - U 'a II .2 uj g U g ■~ 00 S c« ~ c a £ 2 42 o X ■2 M S 3 > co w !U H I I' T5 2