FEDERATION OF NEW YORK STATE BIRD CLUBS, INC. Bird with John Williams and David Roberts on this three-week safari in Kenya! $1860 The most accessible of the world’s great birdwatching areas...Kenya...in company with its leading experts; this is the trip you have dreamed about, the most exciting adventure of your lifetime. Nowhere else but in Africa can you see the earth as it was centuries ago, with its teeming bird life and its vast herds of plains animals, and this safari lets you ex¬ plore it at its best. How long will it remain? See it now! This is a safari for birdwatchers-arranged by experts and guided by them to let you see the most in the time available. How many species will you add to your life list? 400 is par (the list is 1,033), it may be more. But some say that one glimpse of the flamingos at Lake Magadi, or the animals of Amboseli is worth the trip. On July 22,1965 you will leave New York for Frankfurt via Lufthansa jet. Next day you fly to Nairobi via Addis Ababa. You will visit Lake Magadi, Amboseli with its magnificent game reserve, Lake Naivasha for three days, Nyeri, and then by safari car to the world-famous Treetops Hotel. From Treetops you motor to the Mount Kenya Safari Club for a 2-day stay, then fly to Lake Baringo for three days of safari- style living in a tented camp that features all modern conveniences. The last five days of this trip cover Kaptagat, Kakamega Forest, Kericho and two days in Nairobi. Return to Frankfurt for return flight to New York. Now is the time to make reservations. Suggestion; bring several friends with you. You’ll want to talk about this trip the rest of your life—with someone who was there. Lufthansa German Airlines, Dept. UX522 410 Park Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10022 Gentlemen: 1 am interested in further information about the Ornithological Safari departing from New York on July 22,1965, Please send me full particulars. Name Address i 1 r ! 1 City | State Zip | " T ' r ~ -—— * 1 My Travel Agent is 1 ( 3 Lufthansa j German Airlines j P/KINGBIRD PUBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF NEW YORK STATE BIRD CLUBS, INC. Vol. XV No. 2 May, 1965 Pages 73-136 CONTENTS Photographs of New York State Rarities 1. Boreal Owl___ Peter W. Post 1965 Boreal Owl Record ___ Allen E. Kemnitzer President's Page___Robert S. Arbib, Jr. Birth of a Sanctuary_ Betty Strath Clinton Hart Merriam___John B. Belknap A Bibliography of New York State Ornithology — 1963 ____Sally Hoyt Spofford Summary of Fruit Crop 1964 -Stephen W. Eaton Nest Record Card Program — Second Annual Report_____David B. Peakall 1965 Waterfowl Census Summary-John L. Mitchell Survey of Heronries in Upstate New York — 1964 Walter E. Benning Conservation News____ Maxwell C. Wheat, Jr. Field Notes Bluebird Nest Box Project in Dutchess County Mrs. Homer Germond Cedar Waxwing with a Red Tail-band__Margaret Cornwell Fall Feeding of Pileated 1 Woodpecker-Russell W. Carter Notes on Winter Owls in Northern New York — David C. Gordon Gyrfalcon in Jefferson County-—-David C. Gordon An Albino Horned Grebe_1-Daniel Rafferty Highlights of the Winter Season: December 1 —'March 1 __David B. Peakall Regional Reports------- 99 Reviews --— 132 Bulletin Exchange__ Elizabeth S. Manning 133 74 75 77 79 81 82 87 88 90 92 94 96 96 96 96 97 97 98 Editor — Dorothy W. McIlroy Associate Editors Field Notes — Sally Hoyt Spofford Regional Reports — David B. Peakall Photographic — David G. Allen Editorial Board John B. Belknap Stephen W. Eaton Allen H. Benton Eugene Eisenmann Fritz Scheidfr Business Manager — Walter L. Gillespie Cover Design — Douglas L. FIowland PHOTOGRAPHS OF NEW YORK STATE RARITIES T Boreal Owl —Photo by Dr. A. A. Allen, Courtesy Bird Photographs Inc. The Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus ) shown in the above photograph was discovered 1.7 March 1962 near Pulaski, by Margaret Rusk, as reported (together with a summary of ten previous New York State records) in the Kingbird, 12(1): 25-26, May 1962. The photograph was taken by Dr. Arthur A. Allen the following day. The statement by Geoffrey Carleton QAudubon Field Notes, 16(3): 315, June 1962) that the bird was “found dead” is an error. Since Rusk’s account, one other Boreal Owl record from New York has been published: a bird seen and photographed 22 arid 29 February 1964 in Hamlin State Park, Monroe County (J. Foster, Kingbird, 14(2):91-92, May 1964). This is the first in a series of photographs of New York State rarities. The purpose of this series is twofold: to place on record those photographs that already exist, and to encourage the taking of such photographs in the future. It is not my intention here to discuss the pros and cons of collecting, but to point out that, in this day and age when the substantiation of a state record by a specimen is usually out of the question, photographs provide a satisfactory substitute. In fact, except possibly where subspecific identifi- 74 The Kingbird cation is desirable, photographs may be preferable. Specimens can be, and frequently have been, lost. Once a recognizable photograph has been pub¬ lished, however, it becomes a matter of public record. Peter W. Post , 575 West 183 Street , New York 10033 1965 BOREAL OWL RECORD On February 24, 1965, Richard O’Hara and I observed a Boreal Owl CAegolius funereus) perched in a huge tangle of wild grapevines located near the southern edge of the Lake Shore Golf Club. When first dis¬ covered, the owl was less than ten feet from the ground on the south side of the tangle, and in good light, only partly concealed by vines. It was possible to get an excellent close-up view of the Boreal Owl, revealing all the important field marks: the small size, the distinctive black facial framing, the white-spotted forehead, and the light-colored bill (see accompanying photograph). This occurrence marks the second consecutive year that this species has been reported in Monroe County. Last year’s Boreal Owl was first discovered on February 22, 1964, in Hamlin State Park, and observed for the last time, in the same location, a week later ( Kingbird , 14(2) : 91-92. May 1964). More than ten persons viewed this year’s Boreal Owl at close range during the three-day period it was recorded. It was never seen to fly or move about, although its perching spot in the grapevine tangle varied from day to day. Throughout this time the owl exhibited its characteristic lack of fear of human beings, showed no alarm, and often closed its eyes in the presence of observers and photographers moving about less than six feet away. This rare northern visitor was last seen late in the afternoon of February 26, during a heavy wind and snowstorm. The following morning, Saturday, brought out many birders hut the owl had left the tangle. A thorough search of the surrounding area failed to turn up any further trace of the Boreal Owl. Alien E. Kemnitzer , 969 Five Mile Road , Webster 14580 Ed. Note: This latest record and photograph of a Boreal Owl in New York State was received after the preceding article had been set in type. The Kingbird is a publication of The Federation of New York State Bird Clubs, Inc., which has been organized to further the study of bird life and to disseminate knowledge thereof, to educate the public in the need of conserving natural resources and to encourage the establishment and maintenance of sanctuaries and protected areas. Individual member's dues are $3.00 annually, of which $2.75 is for a subscription to the Kingbird. A member wishing to make an additional contri¬ bution may become a Sustaining Member ($5) a Supporting Member ($10) or a Life Member ($100—"payable over a four-year period in equal installments until the full amount is paid", if member so desires.) For all classes of membership contact the treasurer, Kenneth B. Niven, 61 Broadway, Monticello. THE KINGBIRD is published four times a year (January, May, July and October) by the Federation of New York State Bird Clubs, Inc. Publication office is 419 Triphammer Rd., Ithaca, N. Y. Individual membership in the Federation is $3.00 per year as of Jan. 1, 1962, of which $2.75 is for a subscription to the Kingbird. Single copies: $1.00. APPLICATION for membership should be sent to the chairman of the member¬ ship committee, Alfred A. Starling, 75 Brooklawn Drive, Rochester 14618. CHANGE OF ADDRESS is handled by the Treasurer, Kenneth D. Niven, 61 Broadway, Monticello. EXCHANGES, BACK COPIES, and REPLACEMENT OF DAMAGED COPIES by Walter L. Gillespie, Biology Department, Wells College, Aurora, N. Y. 13026. Second class postage paid at Ithaca, N. Y. 76 The Kingbird PRESIDENT'S PAGE It is our hope that our Eighteenth Annual Meeting at Syracuse, June 11-13, will be our biggest and best ever. We hope that each of our 35 clubs will send their full complement of delegates, and that in addition, many of the individual members (and other friends and guests) of the Federation will join us for what is always an enjoyable and stimulating weekend. A fine program is planned and facilities are both excellent and reasonable in cost. Syracuse is as centrally-located a city as we can find, and this is our first visit there. Don't miss it! In a recent letter from the President of one of our member clubs, the following question was asked, “What are we getting for our membership, besides our copy of the Kingbird?” Your President answered the question in roughly the following way: “If you judge your support of the Federation and its work by what physical evidence you have in return, you are probably not getting every dollar’s worth. But no educational, charitable, or conservation organization really provides a dollar’s worth of chattel for every dollar contributed. What does one get back physically when one contributes to the Red Cross, the U.S.O., or the local hospital? We support them because we believe that these are worthy causes, and that by helping them, we benefit our¬ selves—and everyone. “The Federation is a worthy cause. It was founded 18 years ago by a group of far-seeing birdwatchers and conservationists, to accomplish a multiple purpose. First, in the realm of conservation, it has given us a much stronger voice statewide, and provided statewide support to local organi¬ zations when they asked for it. With our present 35 clubs and 5,500 members we have a voice in Albany (and everywhere) far more powerful than any one club can produce. We have made our voice known in legislative matters with some success, and we are constantly alerted to new proposals—both helpful and dangerous, through our Conservation Bulletins. “Second, in the realm of the gathering and exchange of information on New York State ornithology we are extremely active, as the ever-increas¬ ing value of The Kingbird will attest. We have brought birders together from the seven corners of the state at interesting annual meetings, where almost 200 papers on New York State ornithology have been given. We conduct statewide research projects like the annual Waterfowl Count, the. Nesting Card program, and the gathering of data for the new state book. We have a going inter-club Bulletin Exchange program, and a State Orni¬ thological Bibliography that is up-to-date. We are also, as you know, plan¬ ning the publication of a major work, a new Birds of New York State , upon which thousands of hours of work have already been expended. All these valuable activities are the result of the volunteer services of many hard¬ working devoted people—officers, committee chairmen, and members. I The Kingbird 77 believe that they add up to something not merely of intangible worth, hut something that has become indispensible to our state. “So when you as,k what you are getting from the Federation, I am tempted to paraphrase our late revered President Kennedy and say ‘Ask not what your Federation can do for you ..." We are still young, much remains to be accomplished, and many improvements could be made. I can think of many myself, mostly dependent on getting more people active . I will welcome any and all from you . . . both ideas and service/’ Robert S. Arbib , Jr., 226 Guion Drive , Mamaroneck "SOUNDS 4||§& You Will Want AC llr NATURE" recordings The Kirtland's Warbler by Harold Mayfield $6.00 (Winner of the Brewster Award, 1963) Produced by Dr. W. W. H. Gunn The Sandhill Cranes for the by Lawrence H. Federation of Walkinshaw - $3.50 Ontario Naturalists The Flight of Birds Vol 1. Songs of Spring by John H. Storer $2.50 Vol 2. A Day in Algonquin Park Bird Mortality in the Dutch Vol 3. Birds of the Forest Elirt Disease Program / Vol 4. Warblers by George J. Wallace Vol 5. A Day at Flores Morades and others $1.00 Vol 6. Finches and others of our list on Each at $5.95 post free. birds, flowers, insects, fish. Shipped from Connecticut Write for brochure: and Indians. FEDERATION OF As k Fa r A LIST ONTARIO NATURALISTS CRANBROOK INSTITUTE EDWARDS GARDENS OF SCIENCE Don Mills, Ontario Bloomfield Hills, Mich., 48013 78 The Kingbird BIRTH OF A SANCTUARY Betty Strath : Five miles north of the village of Odessa, N. Y., in Schuyler County, lies a narrow valley known by our ancestors as “Texas Hollow”. In this “hollow”, where Cranberry Creek ends and Texas Hollow Creek begins, is a large marsh surrounded by deep woods — the location of Texas Hollow Wildlife Sanctuary. This wild area has been known to hunters for many years, to local birders for comparatively few. In 1962 Cotton-Hanlon, Inc., local lumber concern, purchased this land, adding to its millions of acres of timber. This presented a horrible picture to the Schuyler County Bird Club: visions of lumber crews crushing the beds of Pink Lady's Slippers, and chain saws ringing through the woods drowning out the jackhammer drilling and raucous laughter of the Pileated Wood¬ peckers. S.C.B.C. members snapped to attention. After a heated discussion, a committee was sent to Cotton-Hanlon to see whether anything could be done. They were curious, and a little fascinated by our idea of turning this 50 acres into a wildlife sanctuary and nature center, and although they Would not sell the land (we had no money anyway), they were willing to lease at a most reasonable figure. Thus began Texas Hollow Wildlife Sanctuary. For a sanctuary of its size, T.H.W.S. probably has as varied a habitat as could be found anywhere. Texas Hollow Creek begins in a marsh which was dammed by beaver to form a small lake full of dead snags, perfect for heron roosts, Wood Ducks, woodpeckers, Tree Swallows; This lake is surrounded by Alder thicket, ideal for warblers, Alder Flycatchers, Song Sparrows, Catbirds. There are both decidious and Hemlock woods; there are two more ponds, one with a Sphagnum bog. Bird-life abounds. To date we have a checklist of 138 species, with 86 species known or surmised to nest within the boundaries. In 1960, the beaver dam was washed out by heavy spring rains (the beaver had been gone for some time), and the lake became no more than a narrow winding stream through the marsh grass. The herons left, but rails came in! Soon after Cotton-Hanlon purchased this property, which borders on state-owned land, they signed an agreement with the Conserva¬ tion Department to rebuild 1 the marsh. It was quite a shock to walk in and see bulldozers baring the woods and the area around the lake. Now the dam is completed, the dike and spillways seeded, and. in addition to having the lake back again, the seeded Open area provides yet another habitat.- The S.C.B.C. signed up with the local Soil & Water Conservation Service and acquired seedlings of Multiflora Rose, High Bush Cranberry, Autumn Olive, and honeysuckle, which were set out along the spillways. Posted signs were donated and put up around the perimeter of the sanctuary. With clippers, brush cutter, and strong backs-the remnants of the old trail and logging road were cleared. With the aid of a Senior Girl Scout Troop, tree labels were placed; a younger troOp painted a trash barrel. The S.C.B.C. planned to celebrate its 50th Anniversary by The Kingbird 79 holding an '‘Open House” on October 11, 1964. A pole-frame was erected, over which was stretched a large tarpaulin to make a crude but practical “Hospitality Tent”. Members with printing facilities donated programs. Sunday, October 11, was a typical October day, clear and crisp. Over 100 people of all ages visited Texas Hollow Wildlife Sanctuary, walked the trails, and joined us for cider, donuts and coffee. The sanctuary is now open to the public. The Nature Trail leads from the open area through low deciduous woods (Aspen, Witch Hazel, etc.), into the climax forest of oak and other hardwoods, down a mossy glade into the deep Hemlock woods. On the left lies the small pond, known as “Turtle Pond” for its large population of Painted Turtles. On the right is the Sphagnum bog with its larger pond. There is no path onto the bog, but it is possible to get out there via a fallen log during drier seasons. It is full of Hemlock snags, Winterberry Holly, American Larch, Poison Sumac, head-high Royal and Cinnamon Ferns, Pitcher Plant, Sundew, Wild Flag, and other bog-loving plants,- including a large patch of Cranberries. How¬ ever, we try to discourage people from going onto the bog, as it is tricky (and sticky!) going and one slip could be disastrous. The trail winds around the bog pond, making a complete circle, coming back into the deciduous woods before ending only a few yards from where it started. The Conservation Department machinery has kept open a rough lane along the east side of the marsh where they have been doing more seeding and working on windrows. Eventually we hope to build a connecting spur from the Nature Trail and keep this as another permanent path. The bulldozers opened a spring in the blue clay on the north edge of the east spillway. This has been dug out and a crock inserted, and surrounded by flat stones. The water is clear, cold and pure — a handy drinking fountain. Botanically, Texas Hollow Wildlife Sanctuary is rich, too. Other than the plants growing in the bog, we know of several species of wild orchids: Pink Lady’s Slipper, Rattlesnake Orchis, Summer Coral Root, Autumn Ladies’ Tresses, plus others we have been told about, but have yet to discover. Trailing Arbutus lines the path; Clintonia, Bellwort, Gay Wings (Fringed Polygala) and other spring plants flourish. Just south of the sanctuary is a patch of the comparatively rare White Gay Wings. The eventual aim of the S.C.B.C. is to build and maintain a Nature Center with a small rustic building as headquarters. We will, of course, keep a checklist of birds, nesting and migrating, and nest records. We also plan to keep a list of plants growing there. A feeding station will be maintained. There are many problems, of course, especially for a small club with an even smaller treasury. The two main difficulties are shortage of money and labor. We have been most fortunate in many ways: we receive free legal advice; Dr. Peter Paul Kellogg of Cornell's Laboratory of Ornithology has given us wonderful publicity on his radio program “Know Your Birds”; club members who publish the local shopping guide give free publicity; one club member is giving a program on the sanctuary, with color slides, 80 The Kingbird to local service organizations and donating any money received. The most rewarding result is the community interest which has been awakened. Formerly, the S.C.B.C. has been referred to locally with more or less tongue in cheek. Even sponsoringpaidlectures with fine films has not been too successful in this area. Many of us feel that perhaps from now on the attitude will change — already club membership has increased. People are beginning to realize that those “silly bird watchers'’ are actually a group of conservation-minded people with our country’s wildlife heritage in mind. Of course, the S.C.B.C. cannot take all the credit. The whole country’s growing awareness of conservation problems as publicized through all media certainly is keeping the subject before the public. Also, we must give credit where it is due; if it weren’t for Cotton-H'anlon, Inc., Texas Hollow Wildlife Sanctuary might never be! This, too, is a political, feather in the cap for a large lumber concern. But in its small way, we feel that the S.C.B.C. is contributing by sponsoring this wildlife Sart&tU&ty. The 35-member S.C.B.C. has proved one thing — it can be done! Bird clubs need such projects not only to stimulate club interest, but to bring recognition to themselves as working organizations. The size of the club is unimportant. All that is needed is leadership and willingness to work. The interest will take care of itself. Odessa, N. Y. 14869 CLINTON HART MERRIAM Clinton Hart Merriam was born in New York City on December 5, 1855. He attended Sheffield Scientific School at Yale and later the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, from which he was graduated in 1879. Two of his classmates in medical school were A. K. Fisher and E. A. Meams, both destined to become prominent in ornithology. For several years following graduation Dr. Merriam practiced at Locust Grove, a small community a few miles north of Boonville, N. Y. During this period he was active in field work in Lewis County and adjacent areas and contributed to the Nuttall Ornithological Club Bulletin. Of major interest to us is Merriam’s “Preliminary List of Birds Ascer¬ tained to Occur in the Adirondack Region, Northeastern New York.” It appeared in the N.O.C. Bulletin, 1881-2 and the “Auk”, Volume 1 (1884). This is an annotated list of 211 species with relative abundance indicated in most instances. The area covered is not clearly defined but it is evident that peripheral territory such as Lake George, the western border of Lake Champlain and the upper Black River Valley is included. A few of the common names used by Merriam are quite unlike the ones we now know. For example his Grass Finch is our Vesper Sparrow, and the Little Blackhead turns out to be the Lesser Scaup. One species whose status has changed radically is the Raven. It is given as a “common resident throughout the Adirondacks”. Merriam includes the Masked Duck (Oxyura dominica), stating that “Dr. Cabot found it on Lake Champlain.” This species, however, is omitted from later New York State lists and it is The Kingbird 81 probable that the bird referred to was actually found on the Vermont side of the lake. In his brief introduction Merriam makes this observation in referring to the higher Adirondacks: “Birds of all kinds are rare in the dense evergreen forests of the Canadian Fauna. One may travel for hours, and sometimes a whole day, among the lonely mountains and scarcely see a single bird.” Mention should be made of an earlier paper which appeared in three parts in the N.O.C. Bulletin (1878-9) entitled, “Remarks on Some of the Birds of Lewis County, Northern N. Y,” Four species are discussed at considerable length, viz. Loggerhead Shrike, Horned Lark, Red-headed Woodpecker and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. On June 4, 1878 Merriam and C. L. Bragg found the first eggs of the Northern Three-toed Wood¬ pecker ( Picoides tridactylus bacatus ) known to science. The nest was discovered near McKeever in the western Adirondacks. The two adult birds and four eggs were collected. This event is reported in the N.O.C. Bulletin, Volume III page 200. In 1885 Dr. Merriam was appointed Chief of the U.S. Biological Survey which had just been established at Washington, D. C. This position he held for twenty-five years. During this period Merriam and his colleagues developed the “Life Zone” concept, preparing the well known map of North America which delineates biotic regions and zones. Merriam was the first president of the Linnaean Society of New York which he helped to found while a medical student. He took an active part in organizing the American Ornithologists Union in 1888 and was elected the first secretary. He later was made president of that organization. He was affiliated with numerous scientific and learned societies. Dr. Merriam died in Berkeley, California March 19, 1942. A memorial biographical sketch of his life can be found in the “Auk”, Volume 71, page 130 (April 1954). John B. Belknap , 92 Clinton Street , Gouverneur A BIBLIOGRAPHY OF NEW YORK STATE ORNITHOLOGY—1963 Able, Kenneth P. Television tower mortality in the Niagara frontier during t fall, 1962. Kingbird 13:192-195. Ackley, Mrs. Willard. Notes on Red-headed Woodpeckers in the Oneida area (Oneida and Madison Counties). Kingbird 13:203. Aldrich, John W. Geographic orientation of American Tetraonidae. Journal of Wildlife Management. 27:529-545. Allen, Arthur A. and Peter Paul Kellogg. Dawn in a duckblind, book- album with high fidelity 33 1/3 rpm record. Houghton Mifflin Co., 1963. 28 pp. Allen, Arthur A. Bird photography at Sapsucker Woods. The Living Bird 2:93-120. . Anonymous. Cattle Egret seen in (Bronx) Zoo. Animal Kingdom 66:126. Anonymous. Hummingbird migration produces our annual Ruby-throat. Animal Kingdom 66:158. Anonymous. Midwinter waterfowl. New York State Conservationist 17(4) :35. 82 The Kingbird Arbib, Robert S. Jr. John Jackson Elliott (obituary). Kingbird 13:141-142. - The Common Loon in New York State. Kingbird 13:132-140. BeddaH, Barbara G. Range expansion of the Cardinal and Other birds in the northeastern states. Wilson Bulletin 75:140. Belknap, John B. Lots of Blue Jays. Kingbird 13:155. - John Graham Bell (biography). Kingbird 13:191 —- Winter bird population study, mixed hardwood-hemlock forest. Audubon Field Notes 17:364. Bell, Joseph. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Animal Kingdom 66:136-140. Bell, Ralph K. White-crowned Sparrow study. EBBA News 26:58-59. Bemont, Leslie E. Region 4 — Susquehanna. Kingbird 13:37-40, 110-113, 164-169, 213-216. Boswall, Jeffrey. Additional voice recordings of the Anatidae. 14th Annual Report of the Wildfowl Trust, 1961-62:137-140. Buchheister, Carl. The President reports to you: a wetlands lesson on Long Island, Audubon Magazine 65(2): 77 Mar-Apr. 1963. Buck, Mrs. Stanley E. and Mrs. Nina Bates. Bluebirds (Chautauqua Co.) Kingbird 13:25. Bump, Gardiner. History and analysis of Tetraonid introductions into North America. Journal Wildlife Management 27:855-867. Burger, Joanna. Comparative behavior of the Killdeer and the Spotted Sandpiper. Kingbird 13:14-17. Burton, Lou L. King Rail at Belmont, Allegany County. Kingbird 13:97-98. Bush, Donald H. Letter to editor (Duck choked by catfish). N.Y.S. Con- servationist 18(2): 42. Carleton, Geoffrey. Regional reports Hudson-St. Lawrence Region. Audubon Field Notes 17:15-18, 312-314, 392-394, 449-452. - Spring migration: Central Park. Linnaean News-Letter, 17(3): 2. Case, Neil A. and Oliver LI. Hewitt. Nesting and productivity of the Red- winged Blackbird in relation to habitat. The Living Bird 2:7-20. Chamberlain, Dwight R. Crow migration observed at Sodus Point, Lake Ontario (Wayne Co.). Kingbird 13:154-155. Clarke, Rosemary. Feathered mousetrap (Screech Owl). N.Y.S. Con¬ servationist 17(3): 16. Clinch, Frank A. Region 6 — St. Lawrence. Kingbird 13:44-45, 116-117, 172, 221-222. Darrow, Harry N. Direct autumn flight-line from Fire Island, Long Island, to the coast of southern New Jersey. Kingbird 13:4-12. Davis, Tom. Crossbill invasion. Linnaean News-Letter, 17(7) :1. Dayhart, Donald C. Letter to Editor (Wild Turkey in Tompkins Co.). N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(6): 46. Dunham, David W. Head-scratching in the Hairy Woodpecker, Dendro- copas villosus. Auk 80:375. Durand, Alan L. A remarkable fall of American land-birds on the “Mauretania”, New York to Southampton, October, 1962. British Birds 56:157-164. , -- North American land birds observed at sea aboard R.M.S. “Queen Mary.” Linnaean News-Letter 17(7) :2-3. The Kingbird 83 Eaton, Stephen W. Summary tree and shrub fruit crop — 1962. Kingbird 13:13. Eckelberry, Don Richard. Birds in art and illustration. The Living Bird 2:69-82. Elliott, John J. Region 10 — Marine. Kingbird 13:52-54, 125-126, 183-184, - Persistent flight behavior in some raptorial birds. Kingbird 13:25-26. ^ " - Highlights of the 1963 “Marine Region" waterfowl census. Linnaean News-Letter 17(3): 3-4. Enders, Frank et.al. Winter bird population study, fresh-water marsh and woodland swamp. Audubon Field Notes 17:370. Ficken, Millicent S. Courtship of the American Redstart. Auk 80:307-317. Ficken, Robert W. Courtship and agonistic behavior of the Common Crackle, Quiscalus quiscum. Auk. 80:52-72. Foley, Donald D. Ring-necks are mysterious. Kingbird 13:79-84. Foley, Donald. Our wary Wild Turkey. N.Y.S. Conservationist 18(2):2-3, 30. Friedman, Stuart E. and Paul L. Steineck. The warbler migration in VanCortlandt Park: 1961-1963. Linnaean News-Letter 17(4):2-4. Gattuso, Leonard W. Letter to editor (Pigeon swimming in Prospect Park Lake), N.Y.S. Conservationist 18(2):41. Goldstein, Phillip. The gull and the clam. N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(7): 7. Haight, Mrs. Paul. Evening Grosbeak feeding young in Dutchess County in July 1962. Kingbird 13:97. Hastings, Watson B. Minutes of the 16th Annual Meeting of the council of the Federation of New York State Bird Clubs., Inc. (April 1963). Kingbird 13:146-148. Hock, Ronald J. The influence of the nest-site on incubation in Mourning and Ringed Turtle Doves. The Living Bird 2:41-46. Horowitz, Joseph L. Hurricane? _ Linnaean News-Letter 17(5): 1-2. Howard, Claude R. Jr. Effects of unharvested corn on bird population (Broome Co.) Kingbird 13:153-154. Hoyt, Sally F. Region 3 — Finger Lakes. Kingbird 13:35-37, 107-109, 162-164, 211-213. -- How to attract birds. N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(3):48. Johnson, Ned K. and Hans J. Peeters. The systematic position of certain hawks in the genus Buteo. Auk 80:417-446. Jones, Mrs. Alice D. Dutchess County’s singular Eastern-Western Meadow¬ lark successful hybridization. Kingbird 13:152-153. Latham, Roy. Tree Swallow roost iri Orient, L. I. (Suffolk Co.). Kingbird 13:95-97. Lesperance, Thomas A. Region 7 — Adirondack-Champlain. Kingbird 13:45-47, 117-118, 173-175. Levine, Emanuel. The warbler who thought he was a shorebird. Linnaean News-Letter 17(5): 2. Listman, W. C, Hawk-owl near Braddocks Bav. (Monroe Co.). Kingbird 13:27. MacBriar, Wallace N. Jr. Chimney Swifts gathering insects off the surface of a pond. (Delaware Co.). Wilson Bulletin 75:548. 84 The Kingbird March am, Frederick George. Louis Fuertes revisited. The Living Bird 2:83-92. Mason, Charles I. Turkey take, '62. N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(4): 38. Maguire, H. F. Small game hunters and their take in the 1962-63 season. N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(7): 16-18. Mayer, John H. Comments on the 1963 spring migration. Linnaean News-Letter 17(3): 1-2. Messing, Pauline. Gulls in Central Park. Linnaean News-Letter 17(1): 1. Miller, Howard S. Region 2 — Genesee. Kingbird 13:32-35, 105-107, 160-161,209-210. Mitchell, John L. Mid-winter waterfowl count — 1963, Kingbird 13:75-77. Munoff, Joseph A. Food habits, growth and mortality in nesting Marsh Hawks. (Washington Co.), Kingbird 13:67-74. Murphy, Robert Cushman. Robert Ferryman, forgotten naturalist. Pro¬ ceedings of the American Philosophical Society 103(6), 1959. -- MitchilFs “Birds of Plandome'', Long Island. Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society 106(1): 48-52, 1962. Newman, Frances. Observations of breeding Sapsuckers. Kingbird 13:202- 203. Parkes, Kenneth C. The contribution of museum collections to knowledge of the living bird. The Living Bird 2:121-130. - More on tame turnstones. Linnaean News-Letter 17(2): 3. Parks, G. Hapgood and Hazel C. Parks. Some notes on a trip to an Evening Grosbeak nesting area. Bird-Banding 34:22-30. —-- Evening Grosbeaks died to supply bands for this “jewelry." Bird-Banding 34:73-86. Peakall, David B. Region 5 — Oneida Lake Basin. Kingbird 13:40-44, 113-115, 169-172, 216-221. -r— Highlights of the season. Kingbird 13:27-29, 98-99, 155-156, 205-206. - A nest record scheme for New York State. Kingbird 13:85-88. Pettingill, O. S. Jr. and Sally F. Hoyt. Enjoying birds in upstate New York. 1963. Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology, Ithaca, N. Y. 90 pp. Pettingill, O. S. Jr. Bird finding in the Adirondacks. Audubon Magazine 65:138-141. Plunkett, Richard L. Baird's Sparrow observed. Linnaean News-Letter 17(2) :2. - Questions concerning the fall Dickcissel flight. Linnaean News- Letter 17(6) :4. Post, Peter W. and Guy A. Tudor. Region 10 — Marine. Kingbird 13:228-232. Propst, Jean and David B. Peakall. A strange warbler in central New York. (Onondaga Co.). Kingbird 13:22. Raymond, Richard C. A bird appears a thoughtless thing (Baltimore Oriole). N.Y.S. Conservaticmist 17(6): 12-13. Reilly, E. M. Jr. Albino Barn Swallows (Albany Co.). Kingbird 13:204. -- The swifts and swallows of New York. N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(5) ;21-26. Renkavinsky, J. L. Fulvous Tree Ducks (at Great South Bay, L. I.). N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(7): 35. 85 Reynard, George B. The cadence of bird song. The Living Bird 2:139T48. Robeson, Stacy. Some notes on the summer whistling of male Bobwhite Quail. N.Y. Fish and Game Journal 10:228, Rosche, Richard C. Region 1 — Niagara Frontier. Kingbird 13:29-32, 100-104, 157-159, 207-208. Saltford, Herb. How to enjoy more nature activity. Audubon Magazine 65(1): 47-50. Seeber, Edward L. The Red-bellied Woodpecker in western New York. Kingbird 13:188-190. Shaub, Mary S. Evening Grosbeak winter incursions *— 1958-59, 1959-60, 1960-61. Bird-Banding 34:1-22. Sheffield, Robert and Mary. Nesting of the Philadelphia Vireo in the Adirondacks. (Essex County). Kingbird 13:204-205. Short, Lester L. Jr. Hybridization in the wood warblers Vermivora pinus and V . chrysoptera, Proc. XIII Intern. Ornithol. Congress: 147-160, Sprunt, Alexander IV. Bald Eagles aren't producing enough young. Audubon Magazine 65(1) : 32-35. Stoner, Lillian C. Our clubs — how old) Kingbird 13:144-145. Thurston, Henry, Paul Erlenbach, and E. M. Reilly, Jr. Chestnut-collared Longspurs sighted in Columbia County. -Kingbird 13:154, Tozzi, Peter, Jr. Duck Hawk kill observed. Linnaean News-Letter 17(1):2. Treacy, Edward D. Region 9 Delaware-Hudson. -Kingbird 13:49-52, 121-124, 179-182, 225-228. Trimm, H. Wayne. A hunting accident (Screech Owl with sparrow in talons killed by automobile). N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(4):4. - The Mute Swan. N.Y.S. Conservationist, 17(6): 13. Watson, George E. A simultaneous nesting of the Robin and the Blue Jay in one tree. Auk 80:377-378. Wright, Skip. Letter to editor (Pheasant with deformed beak). N.Y.S. Conservationist 17(6): 47. Vosburgh, John Bluebird report. Audubon Magazine 65:75. Ward, Cornelius J. Fall hawk migrations of Region 10. Kingbird 13:22-23. Wheat, Maxwell C. Jr. Edward J. Whelen (obituary). Kingbird 13:142 -143. Wheeler, Mary J. Carolina Chickadees. Kingbird 13:23-24. Whelen, Edward J. Christmas counts. Kingbird 13:196-198. Wickham, Peter P. Region 8 — Mohawk-Hudson. Kingbird 13:47-49, 118-121,175-178,223-225. Wilcox, Leroy. Capturing sleeping Flickers. EBBA News 26:94-95. Woodford, James. Regional Report: Ontario-Western New York Region. Audubon Field Notes 17:28-31, 399-401, 457-459. Zupan, Enders, Temple, Loss, Weiss, and Heath. Breeding bird census, freshwater marsh and woodland swamp. Audubon Field Notes 17:506- 507. Sixy-third Christmas Bird Count — New York State. Audubon Field Notes 17:102-115. Corrections or omissions should be called to the attention of the Biblio¬ graphy committee: Sally Hoyt Spofford, Chairman, John B. Belknap, Allen H. Benton, and Kenneth C. Parkes. 86 The Kingbird SUMMARY OF FRUIT CROP 1964 Ontario Western Eastern Lake Allegheny Allegheny Adirondacks Plain Plateau Plateau Regions 5, 6 2, 6 1 3, 4, 5 White Pine F P Pitch Pine Larch F, F White Spruce Gr Black Spruce P, G Red Spruce F-G, - Balsam F Hemlock G G, G, P Arbor Yitae F Red Cedar F, F Bayberry Ironwood (Ostrya) F G, F Blue Beech (Carpinus) F F, G Yellow Birch G G, P White Birch G G, - Amer. Beech F-G, G P, G F F, P-G, F White Oak F, G P G, F, G Red Oak P G, F, G Cucumber Tree G F, - Mountain Ash G, G Thornapple G, G F G, G, G Wild Black Cherry G, F P G, G, G Box Elder G, G C G, G Sugar Maple F G, G, F Grey Dogwood G, G Red Osier Dogwood F, G White Ash F-G G, G, G Blackberried Elder G, G F G, G, - The fruit crop of wild trees and shrubs was reported to be generally fair to good on the Allegheny Plateau. Some evidence pointed to the area east of the Finger Lakes as producing a better crop than that part of the plateau to the west. Fruits on the Ontario Lake Plain were considered good and in the Adirondacks the many conifers, beech and cherry all produced fair to good crops. On the western Allegheny Plateau where Hemlock and Birch produced plentiful crops of seeds many Goldfinches were wintering. From the Lower Hudson area it was felt drought conditions generally ruined the fruit and berry crop. Thanks to H. S. Miller, S. Hoyt Spofford, L. E. Bemont, E. Ketchledge, F. A. Clinch and E, D. Treacy for helping with this summary. Stephen W. Eaton , Dept, of Biology , St. Bonaventure Univ., St. Bonaventure The Kingbird 87 NEST RECORD CARD PROGRAM — SECOND ANNUAL REPORT David B. Peakall The second year’s operation of the nest record card program yielded four times as many cards as the first year. This success led to the launching, in January 1965, of a continent-wide program to be run entirely by the Laboratory of Ornithology. This is, therefore, an appropriate time to thank the Onondaga Audubon Society for its financial support of the program during the first critical two years. The basic idea • of the program is the collection of information on the breeding biology of birds. Observers complete a simple card for every active nest found, giving the site, contents of nest at given dates etc. These cards are returned to the Laboratory of Ornithology for analysis. A more detailed account of the program has appeared previously in this journal (Vbl. 13 pp 85-88, 1963). The bulk of the cards received were from New York and Pennsylvania; however some cards were received from areas as far away as Florida and Minnesota. Also some cards were received which refer to previous years; the most notable in this category were a fine batch on Peregrine nests from Dr. Walter Spofford. This species may now be completely gone as a breeding species in the eastern United States. In all, some 5200 cards of 154 species are represented in the collection; those species for which ten or more cards are available are listed in Table 1. Table 1. Total number of cards received (1963-64) by species. Those represented by less than ten cards are excluded. American Egret 10 Common Tern 22 Veery 12 Snowy Egret 14 Black Skimmer 11 Bluebird 359 Little Bl. Heron 12 Rock Dove 10 Cedar Waxwing 61 Green Heron 25 Mourning Dove 105 Starling 72 Black-crowned Horned Owl 11 Red-eyed Vireo 16 Night Heron 11 Flicker 50 Yellow Warbler 94 Least Bittern it Kingbird 33 Chestnut-sided Glossy Ibis 15 Phoebe 467 Warbler 16 Canada Goose 10 Alder Flycatcher 26 House Sparrow 30 Mallard 44 Tree Swallow 241 Redwinged Blackbird 895 Black Duck 19 Rough-winged Baltimore Oriole 39 Wood Duck 27 Swallow 10 Common Grackle 196 Goshawk 14 Barn Swallow 165 Cardinal 44 Red-tailed Hawk Red-shouldered 21 Blue Jay Black-capped 18 Rose-breasted Grosbeak 12 Hawk 25 Chickadee 21 Indigo Bunting 10 Osprey 10 House Wren 113 Goldfinch 62 Peregrine 57 Long-^billed Towhee 15 Sparrow Hawk 16 Marsh Wren 10 Slate-colored Ruffed Grouse 14 Catbird 206 Junco 27 Com’n Gallinule 26 Brown Thrasher 54 Chipping Sparrow 104 Killdeer 21 Robin 507 Field Sparrow 42 Woodcock 14 Wood Thrush 49 Song Sparrow 117 The success of this program is dependent on the co-operation of a large number of observers. It is in reality your program. Table 2 gives a list of contributors who sent in more than five cards. The increasing size of 88 The Kingbird the program makes complete listing impossible. Mr. Miller of Philadelphia heads the list this year with 489 cards covering a wide variety of specie'!. Miss Bordner of State College, Pa., sent in 401 cards which were almost all of one species —* the Poebe — and Mrs. Haller of Avon continued her work on the Red-winged Blackbird. To all ^pptyjljulo^ we extend pur thanks and hope that they will continue to assist us in the future. Also, it is hoped that persons studying the breeding biology of birds will use the data collected! by the program to supplement their own field observations. Upstate Medical Center, 766 Irving Avenue, Syracuse 13210 Table 2. List of persons contributing five or more nest record cards. Ackley, Mrs W. D. 6 Anderson, H. C. 52 Bancroft, R. B. 16 Baxter, J. R. 5 Belknap, J. B. 12 Bell, Barbara 6 Benedict, Mr and Mrs R. J. 82 Benning, W. E. 8 Bordner, Miss D. L. 401 Bowman, M. C. 31 Brockner, W. W. 5 Brooks, Bird Club 323 Burgress, D. D. 64 Bush, J. H. 6 Carter, C. 23 Church, G. 8 De'Witt, E. 87 Dirig, R. E, 22 Ditterline, E, 190 Drouhard, C. P. 15 Evelien, A. 11 Fagel, Mr and Mrs J. E. 5 Fennell, W. G. 5 Finnegan, M. L. 5 Flanigan, Annette 12 Germond, F. 13 Gerould, C. 18 Goldman, H. 29 Griffin, J. 5 Gustafson, J, A. 9 Haller, Mrs j. 240 Heath, F. & Zuppan, C. 82 Hitman, B, A. 24 Hoke, D. 8 Hoyt, Dr. S. F, 23 Hyde, D. 8 Kendrick, N. 12 Ketcham, Mrs H. M. 27 Knight, Mrs J. 8 The Kingbird Knight, Mr and Mrs T. S. 65 Kopp, A. E. 6 Krieg, D. 109 Krieg, J. 90 Marsi, Mrs H. 81 Mason, D. 18 Mcllroy, Mrs D. 10 McMuller, Mrs E> D. 5 Miller, J. C. 489 Moeller, R. 12 Newman, Mrs F. 73 O’Hara, R. T. 25 Palmiter, M. 275 Patterson, J. 28 Peakall, D. 6 Phelps, S. B. 100 Ranson, Dr & Mrs F. 41 Rew, Miss F. M. 9 Robbins, Miss L. 15 Rosche, R. C. 97 Rose, R. H. @ Rusk, Miss M. 10 Schaeffer, F. S. 6 Sheffield, Mr and Mrs R. 34 Sherman, Mr and Mrs N. 22 Sinderson, S. W. 13 Smiley, D. 9 Smith, G. M. 15 Smith, M. R. 39 Spies, C. & Morgan, S. 136 Starr, Mrs E. 20 Stocek, R. F. 62 Treatfis, C. 10 Washburn, Dr. & Mrs N. 26 Weske, J. 38 Williams, E. 21 Williams, Mrs R. 6 Wilson, S. 62 Zimmer, G. M. 11 89 FEDERATION OF NEW YORK STATE BIRD CLUBS WATERFOWL CENSUS—- JANUARY 9-17, 1965 !COtHlOCOTP©TplHlOTp©©COTPtHrHCOtH©OOOOtHTP©rHOOtH©CO©©'^TPrHtHCC©00:rH, a> 00 <£> Ift tH 1 1 ^ 1 1 © rH 1 »H 1 I I rH CO 1 t~© © 1 00 1 I't- rH- 1 rH 00 © l© 1 „ r~l 1 tH | | IOO | I 1 1 o | 00 © © | HH 1 1 tp | rH © tO to TP CO tO ©COCO tH tO tH 00 i-H © rH TPCOCOCOt-©tOTP IH tH rH tO • tP ©O MCOHHH © IOtPtPiH© ©© co © oil co © © lo © co oo tH CO rH 00 rH ©©©©oo©cocococo TpOOCOCOCOCOrHIH© tH © © CO lO CO © 1 © to CO OOCOCOtOCOrHrHCO©rHOOtOTPrH CO tO rH CO 1 ©to LO tH rH TP rH tPC0tHtPiO©C01h 1 «o CO TP t> © ©C1HHH © rH CO © tO © CO tP © rH tP t- TP rH rH rH tH I a I H t-rH 1 1 t“^ 6 3 1 7 9 1 00 rH 1 © tH I 1 | I I fc- CO © 1 t* 1 \ 1 to © | I rH © 00 tH | CO || 1 1 1 ©rH© 1 © 1 tH CO CO rH rH rH rH rH C0C0©C0©©tP©©lOtP00© tP TP©LO©C000C0tO© tP rH 00 8 bird noted that it so'metih)£s perched close to the trunk halfway up in trees, unusual behavior for this species.) Probably individuals of this species regularly visit the area but are not reported by competent observers. On Jan. 1, 1965 at 4 P.M. EST as the sun was getting low, I saw a Short- eared Owl (Asio flammeus) make repeated harrassing dives on a red fox in an open field on Pt. Peninsula. The fox made no attempt to fight back but was crossing the field to get to some trees. The owl did not seem to strike the fox. Two more Short-eared Owls came over this field to join the first in a few minutes. At dusk, 4:55 P.M. EST, I saw three different Short-eared Owls flying around a barn on Pillar Point several miles away on the same date. David C. Gordon, 1347 Sherman Street, Watertown Gyrfalcon in Jefferson County: On Dec, 23, 1964 I saw a dark phase Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) sitting on a telphone pole on the Dablon Pt. Road near Cape Vincent, Jeff. Co., and observed it from about 11:00 to 11:30 A.M. EST at close range. It greatly resembled a dark phase Rough¬ legged Hawk until it flew, but lacked any white on the tail and the flight was quite different. I had to shout and clap to make it fly the first time. I followed it from one pole to another several times in my car and could drive up beside it or past it without disturbing it. Only when I approached! near on foot would it fly. Then it flew low over the ground with a steady, deceptively slow, gull-like beat — never soaring or hovering — before it flew up to its next perch. Once I saw it fly to the ground and walk around. Frank Clinch and I located it later in the afternoon in a tree and observed it for nearly another 30 minutes on poles and in other trees near Cape Vincent. On Dec. 26, 1964 in the morning I saw a black Gyrfalcon on Pt, Peninsula in a tree and later on a telephone pole beside the road. Although it looked like the first one I saw, I suspect it may have been a different bird:. All markings and other characteristics, which were noted at close range, have been compared satisfactorily with several of the most authoritative books on birds of prey. David C. Gordon, 1347 Sherman Street, Watertown An Albino Horned Grebe: In early February 1965 Walter Friton photo¬ graphed a pure white bird from the West End Jetty at Jones Beach, Nassau County. He thought he detected a red eye and although he was in doubt as to the species he felt it was a Horned Grebe (Podiceps auritua), even though it seemed smaller than other grebes in the inlet. Walter Friton, William Hackett and I observed the bird on February 23 and 26. The possibility occurred to us that it might be a Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle), but choppy water, distance, and the wariness of the bird prevented our seeing it well or securing a photograph. Returning to the inlet on 8 March, we spotted a group of Horned Grebes (about 24) in a compact flock and there, on the outside of the group, was the white bird. We tried to photograph it, but as we attempted to get nearer, it dove and reappeared on the far side of the group. As we advanced, it was the only bird to swim away, the others appearing unconcerned over our presence. This time the typical Horned Grebe shape of the head and thin neck were very apparent, and the bird’s plumage, which a few weeks previously was totally white, was now streaked on the back and sides with buff. Daniel Rafferty, 2307 Loring Place, Bronx 10468 The Kingbird 97 Note: This bird was seen by several other observers, all of whom agreed as to the identification. In a recent review of albinism in grebes, Weller (Auk, 76:520-521, 1959) could find only two reports of albino Horned Grebes, both partial albinos. I am indebted to C. Chandler Ross, who has made an extensive search for albino birds in the literature and among museum specimens, for this reference. That albinism may often be cor¬ related! with differences in size and behavior is well known (see Lee and Keeler, Auk, 68:80-85, 1951). P. W. Post HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WINTER SEASON DECEMBER 1 - MARCH 31 David B. Peakall It was the worst winter for northern finches since 1956/57; most areas had to be content with a few Evening Grosbeaks and Purple Finches. Although the number of Purple Finches increased in late winter they did not approach flight proportions. Several regional editors considered that other passerine species were low in numbers including the Tree Sparrow. Passerine species reported in above average numbers were Cedar Waxwing, Northern Shrike and Goldfinch. In the Adirondaeks the Goldfinch was the finch of the period. Although Bohemian Waxwings assocate with flocks of Cedar Waxwings it is of some interest that only two were reported this winter. The invasion of Snowy Owls which followed the four year rule, was fair to good. In most areas it did not reach the proportions of the 1960/61 flight, A detailed account will be published later. In many areas the fine fall flight of Rough-legged Hawks did not result in particularly high winter¬ ing populations; local upstate exceptions were the Lyndonville area of Region 1 and Albany-Catskill in Region 8. However, on Long Island the numbers recorded were considered to be the highest ever. The highlight of winter records of birds-of-prey was the occurrence of four gyrfalcons, One is detailed in the field note section. The scarcity of accipiters was again widely commented on. Several areas reported high counts of Great Black-backed Gulls; on Long Island a new record high Christmas count was made and numbers on the Upper Hudson were considered “unprecedented”. This species has been increasingly steadily over the last few decades. In the Great Lakes the species was virtually unknown until the mid 1930’s. The average counts for those Christmas counts carried out regularly over the last twenty years are given in the table below. The Ring-billed Gull has also increased as a wintering species. There are considerable difficulties in comparing counts due to increasing coverage and more and better observers. However, the numbers of Herring Gulls reported have not significantly increased over the same period. Great Black-backed 1964-60 1959-55 1954-50 1949-' Long Island & New York City 590 354 214 71 Great Lakes Ring-billed 99 51 42 24 Long Island & New York City 605 239 222 44 Great Lakes 2652 2332 1068 325 The Kingbird 98 The increase of the Mourning Dove as a wintering bird and the .increase of the introduced House Finch have been chronicled in these summaries fairly recently. The number of Mourning Doves reported on the 1963/64 Christmas counts was 3533 from 44 counts compared to 2560 from 41 two years before. The average number for regular counts (see Kingbird 13(2): 99) were Long Island 139 (compared to 118) and upstate 83 (compared to 31). A further northward expansion of the House Finch is recorded in the Hudson Valley and there was a large increase in the numbers recorded on the Christmas counts on Long Island. There were, at least, as many rarities as normal. Among these may be noted a Boreal Owl at Rochester, Lesser Black-backed Gull at Ithaca and Elmira, two Harris’ Sparrows in Region 8, Varied Thrush and Lark Sparrow in the Hudson Valley, and Brambling and Spotted Towhee on Long Island. Upstate Medical Center , 766 Irving Avenue, Syracuse It is regretted that the report from Region 4 was not received in time to be used in this summary. REGION 1 — NIAGARA FRONTIER Richard C. Rosche Winter in the Niagara Frontier was relatively mild during December, January and February. Long periods of cold temperatures were the exception and snowfall was erratic. There were many periods when the ground was mostly snow free. However, the weather pattern reversed in March; there was much cold weather, and snow accumulated to depths greater than in any other part of the winter. The continuation of mild fall weather into early winter, combined with an excellent available food supply, apparently induced large numbers of blackbirds and sparrows to winter. To a lesser extent, the same might be said of some fruit-eating birds, like the Robin and Flicker. But the same abundance of available food must have also existed in the north country, for many typical winter birds, with the exception of those dependent on small mammals, were either very scarce or unreported. Ice-free ponds, lakes and streams, especially in the southern tier, prob¬ ably account for the number and variety of straggler waterfowl reported during December and early January. Likewise, the lack of open water during most of March resulted in an unusually poor waterfowl movement. The outlet of Chautauqua Lake provided habitat for more numbers and species of waterfowl than any other place in the Region, including the temporary sinks and ponds in the Oak Orchard area that were mostly frozen all month. Most typical March migrant landbirds were about two weeks late in arriving in normal numbers. Several days during the first week were good for migration; however, it wasn’t until March 26-28, and especially during the night of March 27-28, when large numbers of these birds moved into the Region. It is always interesting to watch for the effects of man-made objects on the distribution and occurrence of birds. This winter, in order to stabilize ice in Lake Erie and prevent it from clogging water intakes in the Niagara River, an ice-boom was constructed from Buffalo to Fort Erie, Ontario where the river makes its exit from the lake. The engineers say it The Kingbird 99 was successful; there was almost no open water in eastern Lake Erie at the end of winter; and the Niagara River was relatively free from ice-jams during most of the winter. Naturally, field students were interested to see what effects, if any, this would have on wintering waterfowl. The only comments reaching the writer were that waterfowl seemed to be more scarce than in previous winters. However, it seems most likely that waterfowl were not concentrated in large numbers in open water areas, but because of the lack of large ice-jams, were relatively scattered in smaller groups. Observers who used their telescopes to look over the middle of the river, rather than concentrating on areas close to shore, reported what seem to be average numbers of ^ ducks. Our Winter Waterfowl Count does not show any sharp reduction in numbers. Highlights of the season include the first regional records of winter Dunlin and Common Tern; the occurrence of several rarities—Mute Swan, Bohemian Waxwing and Harris’ Sparrow; and a moderate Snowy Owl flight. Negative aspects include an almost complete absence of winter finches, and lower numbers of some regular winter landbirds; a generally poor winter for feeding station operators; and most important of all ... a question, “What is happening to some of the fish-eating birds that have always wintered in small numbers on the Niagara River?” (see below under Great Blue Heron and Belted Kingfisher) Abbreviations used below are: ad—adult; Alleg—Allegany; BACC— Buffalo Audubon Society Christmas Count; BCC—Buffalo Ornithological Society Christmas Count; Bflo—Buffalo; Chaut—Chautauqua; Co—County; Gen-—Genesee; imm—-immature; ISP—Island State Park; JCC—Jamestown Audubon Society Christmas Count; Lk—Lake; max—maximum; NF— Niagara Falls; Nia—Niagara; 00—Oak Orchard; Ont—Ontario; opp— opposite; Pt—Point; R—River; SCC—Scio Christmas Count; TGMA— Tonawanda Game Management Area; WWC-—Winter Waterfowl Count; yrs—years. Contributors: RFA—Robert F. Andrle; HHA—Harold H. Axtell; CMB—Clarence M. Beal; AHB—Allen H. Benton; TLB—Thomas L. Bourne; WWB—Winston W. Brockner; RB—Richard Brownstein; GB—George Buckland; LDB—Lou and Doris Burton; AC—Arthur Clark; WC—Wilma Csont; FD—Mrs. Fred Danner; MME—Mary Louise and Marjorie Emerson; AF—Arthur Freitag; GH—Mrs. George Hartloff; LJ—Mrs. John Jacoby; LK—Lewis Kibler; WHK—Walter and Harriette Klabunde; WK—Ward Klepfer; OM—Ollie Meddaugh; HDM—Harold D. Mitchell; CN—Mr. and Mrs. Charles Neel; RLN—Royce and Lillian Norton; EO—Edwin Olmstead; EMP—Elizabeth Pillsbury; FMR—Frances M. Rew; RCR—Richard C. Rosche; CAR—Clarence and Arlene Rote; DS—Daniel Salisbury; HCS— Mrs. Harry C. Schafer; ELS—Edward L. Seeber; WGS—William A. and George M. Smith; RLS—Robert L. Sommerville; KOS—Kenneth and Ora Swanson; AEU—Alice and Edward Ulrich; GGW—Gertrude G. Webster. Loons — Ducks: Common Loon: one, Jan 10, Rushford Lk (LDB)—very late inland record. Pied-billed Grebe: only wintering bird reported from upper Gen R, Alleg Co (LDB). Double-crested Cormorant: one, Jan 1 (AHB et al) ; one, Jan 3 (WWB et al) ; one, Jan 9 (FMR et al), Dunkirk Harbor. Great Blue Heron: none wintered in Nia R area for second consecutive year; Dec and Jan records of single birds at Glean and Scio; first migrants Mar 28. Black-crowned Night Heron: no reports. American Bittern: one, Dec 10, Belmont (LDB et al)-—late (died Dec 11—-specimen now in Bflo Museum of Science). Mute Swan: three, Feb 27, mouth of 00 Creek at Pt Breeze, Orleans Co (RB et al)—apparently feral birds; reported by many observers from mid Jan to late Mar. Whistling Swan: five, Dec 27, Chaut Lk (JCC) 18, Dec 31, Chaut Lk at Stowe (CMB et al) ; five, Jan 21, Dunkirk Harbor (EMP) ; one imm wintered Feb 1-Mar 17 on 100 The Kingbird Nia. R opp Bflo (RLS) ; first migrant Mar 14, Beaver ISP (AF) ; noticeable flights Mar 22 (66, Chaut Lk Outlet, CMB; 21, over Hamburg, RCR; 22, over Bflo, HHA) and Mar 28 (40, over Hamburg, TLB: 12, Buckhorn ISP, WK); max 76-85, Mar 24-28, Chaut Lk Outlet (CMB et al). Canada Goose : first migrants Feb 20, Dunkirk Harbor (EMP et al) and Mar 3, Lyndonville (WGS); few reports of overhead migrants; max counts in 00 area—1500 on Mar 7 (RCR et al), 3500 on Mar 14 (RCR et al) and 7000 on Mar 31 (HHA et al)—fewer than in most recent years. Blue Goose: one, Mar 17, Eden (TLB) ; one, Mar 31, TGMA (HHA et al)—only reports. Mallard: highest count (1119) in 11 yrs (WWC). Gadwall: one, Jan 10 (LK et al) ; one, Feb 6 (FMR et al) ; three, Feb 11 (RB), Dunkirk Harbor. Pintail: highest count (39) in 11 yrs (WWC)—25 of these were in OO area (OM) ; peaked at TGMA on Mar 14, 850 (RCR et al). Green-winged Teal: five, Dec 18, Belmont (LDB)—latest Regional report and especially late for southern tier. Blue-winged Teal: two, Mar 27, Belfast (LDB)—first migrants. American Widgeon: highest count (85) in 11 yrs (WWC)—79 of these were at NF; unusudlly scarce during Mar. Shoveler: one male, Dec 13, West Branch Nia R (FMR, RCR et al)—late; four, Mar 29, Frews- burg (CMB)—first migrants. Wood Duck: single birds reported Jan 10 with Mallards and Black Ducks at Forest Lawn, Bflo (AF) and at Williamsville (HHA) ; three, Mar 25, Chaut Lk Outlet (CMB)—first migrants. Redhead: best Mar flight in past five or more years—max 152, Mar 11, Nia R (HDM), 350, Mar 25, Chaut Lk Outlet (CMB) and 100, Mar 25, Nia R opp Bflo (HHA). Canvasback: lowest count (2721) since 1959 (WWC). Lesser Scaup: no wintering birds; 35, Mar 25, Chaut Lk Outlet (CMB)—first migrants. King Eider: one, Dec 27, gorge at NF (BCC); one; Jan 10, Lk Ont between Fort Nia and Olcott (HHA et al). White-winged Scoter: more wintering than usual; max—65, Jan 5, Nia R opp Bflo (RFA et al) and 94, Jan 10 (WWC) of which 81 were on Lk Ont between Olcott and Pt Breeze (WHK) ; highest count on WWC since 1955; one, Mar 25, Chaut Lk Outlet (CMB). Ruddy Duck: three, Jan 3, Chaut Lk (KOS)—last report; no Mar migrants. Common Merganser: highest count (8220) since 1960 when 15192 were estimated (WWC). Hawks — Owls: Turkey Vulture: one-two, Mar 28, OO area (DS et al) first migrants. Hawk migration: Mar 18 over south shore Lk Erie at Irving (CN)—Sharp-shinned-2, Red-tailed-29, Red-shouldered-6, Rough-legged-2, Sparrow-1, unidentified-14—total-54 birds; no other hawk movements reported. Goshawk: one ad, Jan 8, Lake View (TLB). Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks: except for the last half of Mar when migrants appeared, there were more winter observations of Sharp-shinned than Cooper’s—an interesting situation because the Cooper’s has always been thought to be more common in winter than the Sharp-shinned. Outside of peak migration periods the Cooper’s seems to be decreasing in the Region. Red-tailed Hawk : none reported on any of the southern tier Christmas Counts. Red-Should¬ ered Hawk: one ad, Dec 12, near East Aurora (RCR et al)—latest; one, Mar 2, Hamburg (TLB)—first migrant; none wintered for the second con¬ secutive year. Rough-legged Hawk: fairly well distributed after Dec in very small numbers except on Ont Plain in Lyndonville area where max of 14-Dec 29, 24-Jan 1 and 21, and 1-23, Mar 1-31 were counted (WGS). Bald Eagle: one imm, Dec 19, Hamburg (TLB); one imm, Feb 9, 11, 14, Nia R in vicinity of Navy Island (GGW et al) ; one ad, Feb 12, Orchard Park (TLB) ; one imm, Mar 24, over Hamburg (TLB) ; one in almost ad plumage, Mar 25, Beaver ISP (AF), Marsh Hawk: scattered reports of wintering birds; most regularly reported in Lyndonville-Shadigee area (WGS) where Rough-legs occurred with max of 8, Mar 14 (RCR et al). Bobwhite: pair, Mar 27, near Alabama (RCR et al)—probably birds released in area last fall. Turkey: fewer southern tier reports than usual; their continued northward spread into Erie Co is borne out by two observations—one, Mar The Kingbird 101 13, near Chestnut Ridge Park and two, Mar 25, Newton Road, Hamburg (TLB). American Coot: two, Jan 21 (EMP) and one, Feb 6 (FMR et al), Dunkirk Harbor—the most regular wintering locality in recent years. Killdeer: late birds Dec 20 at Grand Island (GGW et al), Dec 29 at Cuba (LDB), Jan 3 at Chaut Lk (KOS) ; first migrant Mar 4 at Marila (HCS) ; major influx occurred over the night of Mar 27-28. Dunlin: two, Feb 6 (FMR et al) and one, Feb 28, (AC et al), Dunkirk Harbor—first reports of wintering birds for the Region. Glaucous Gull: scarce during most of Dec, Feb and Mar but perhaps more numerous than usual in late Dec and Jan on Nia R; max seven, Dec 27, NF area (ELS et al) and eight, Jan 17 Lewiston-Queenston area (FMR et al). Iceland Gull: few reports in Dec, Feb and Mar but a count of 12, Jan 9 (WHK) on the Nia R between NF and Lewiston is the highest ever seen in the Region in a single day; other observers reported fewer numbers in this area in mid Jan but most agreed that this bird was more numerous than usual. Iceland Gull (L.g.kumlieni): one, Dec 27, NF area (ELS et al). Great Black-backed Gull: commenting on the results of the BCC in the Nia R region, Whitney Mallam stated, “(The) Great Black-backed Gull shows the most striking constant rise in numbers of any count species. Prior to 1959 there were never over 100 reported, yet this is the fifth year of the last six when over 100 were reported and the second consecutive year when over 200 were recorded.” 237 were counted. Franklin’s Gull: one, Dec 6, NF (DS et al)—late. Bonaparte’s Gull: none wintered on Nia R; three, Jan 17, Nia R at Lewiston (FMR et al)—last; three, Feb 6, Dunkirk Harbor (FMR et al). Little Gull: one, Jan 17, Nia R at Lewiston (FMR et al)—only report. Common Tern: one, Dec 27, Nia R opp Tonawanda (HDM et al) ; one, Jan 2, Dunkirk Harbor (FMR et al)—the first winter records between Dec 8 and Apr 5 in the Region. Barn Owl: one, Dec 3 (TLB) and Jan 1 (GH), Hamburg—only reports. Snowy Owl: the expected flight that began in late Oct and Nov involved fewer individuals than has often been the case in flight years. As the winter progressed they became less often reported than during Nov and Dec. As usual, most birds were seen in the metropolitan Bflo area. Other reports are: one-two frequently through period, Lyndonville area (WGS); one, Dec 6, Greenhurst, Chaut Co (CMB) ; one, Dec 27 and Feb 26, Batavia (GB) ; one, Jan 3 (WWB) and Feb 6 (FMR et al), Dunkirk Harbor; one, Feb 18, Eden (TLB); one, Feb 19, near Olcott (GGW et al). Harold Axtell examined some pellets brought from an area frequented by one-three individuals on the Nia R opp Bflo and found them to contain only the remains of three house rats. Long-eared Owl: one, Jan 31, Evans (WWB)—only report; continues to become more scarce each winter, with no major roosting areas having been found in about five years. Short¬ eared Owl: exceedingly scarce on Grand Island with none reported Dec 27 on BCC for the first time since 1953; a major concentration in Lyndonville- Shadigee area with Rough-legged Hawks—max counts here were 16-Dec 5, 24-Jan 17, 15-Feb 6, 32-Mar 22, 41-Mar 23 and 37-Mar 29 (WGS). Saw- whet Owl: one, Jan 6, Hamburg (TLB)—only report. Goatsuckers — Starling: Belted Kingfisher: for the first time in a number of years we have several winter reports for the Nia R area, where formerly they were regular in very small numbers at this time of the year. Their recent scarcity seems to be correlated with the noticeable disappear¬ ance of other fish-eating birds during winter, like the Great Blue and Black-crowned Night Herons, which also were regular in small numbers. The number of wintering birds reported from open streams in the southern tier counties is increasing. Yellow-shafted Flicker: more wintering through¬ out Region than average; one frequented a feeding station where it was observed eating small seeds. Red-bellied Woodpecker: one, Jan 19, Feb 19 and Marl-31, Batavia (GB)—-usual locality; one, Mar 28 (DS et al) 1^2 The Kingbird and Mar 30 (MME) at feeder, Knowlesville Rd., Town of Alabama^-the second report in four yrs from the 00 area. Red-headed Woodpecker: two, Dec 27,, Beaver ISP (AEU et al) ; one, Jan 3, Transit Bridge, Alleg Co (LDB); one, Jan 31 and three, Feb 7, Fort Nia (WHK)—-indicative of a good acorn crop. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker: one, Dec 29, Belmont (LDB) — rare in winter. Eastern Phoebe: one, Mar 27, Wanakah (TLB)—first migrant. Horned Lark (E.a.alpestrU) : 10 Jan 17, near Wilson (WHK); two, Feb 27, Lake View (TLB); four, Mar 1, Marila (HCS) ; two, Mar 11, Eden (TLB) ; two, Mar 27 and four, Mar 28, Alabama (RCR et al). Common Crow: 500, Dec. 28, Alfred (LDB)-—indicative of Alleg Co roost that still is to be specifically located. Black-capped Chickadee: somewhat less common than average according to a number of observers, but Christmas Count data shows about average numbers. Tufted Titmouse: one, Dec 11, Lakewood, Chaut Co (CMB) ; four, Dec 27, Jamestown area (JCC) ; two, Dec 31, Fluvanna, Chaut Co (CMB et al); one, Dec 27 and Jan 1, Grand Island (FMR et al) ; two, Jan 26-27 and one, Feb 15, 20, 23, Lewiston ■ (WHK); one, Jan 6-7, Mar 3, 12, 21-24, Springbrook (FD et al) ; one-two at a feeder occasionally in suburban Tonawanda (CAR)—-a somewhat wider distribution especially north of Bflo. Red-breasted Nuthatch: very scarce with only four-five reports of single birds other than max of six, Jan 1, Hamburg-East Aurora area (BACC). Winter Wren: one, Dec 27, 31, Jamestown (CMB et al)—only report. Mockingbird: one throughout the period, Rensch Rd, Amherst (RCR et al) —seen feeding on thorn apple fruits and decaying apples; one, Jan 30, near Busti, Chaut Co (EMP) ; one, Feb 6, near Shadigee, Orleans Co (WGS) ; one Feb 9, Athol Springs (WC), Brown Thrasher: one, Dec 5, 9, 11, 19, Jamestown (CMB). Robin: more wintering individuals especially about Mountain Ash trees than usual with max of 17, Dec 13, Tonawanda (AF). and 15-25, Jan 4-20, Lewiston (WHK) ; 20, Feb 21, Belvidere, Alleg Co (LDB)—probably early migrants; generally scarce during most of Mar compared with most years until the night of Mar 27-28 when thousands moved into the Region. Hermit Thrush: one, Feb 8, Eden (TLB)—rare winter resident. Eastern Bluebird: one, Feb 27, Wanakah (TLB)—first migrant; max 10, Mar 28, Springbrook (HCS). Golden-crowned Kinglet: scarcer than usual. Ruby-crowned Kinglet: one, Dec 27, Beaver ISP (AEU et al)— very rare in winter. Bohemian Waxwimr: one. Jan 10 Belmont (LDB)—seen well with Cedar Waxwings. Cedar Waxwing: more abundant than usual especially about Multiflora Rose hedges; max of 1-150, Dec 6-31, Belmont (LDB), 172, Jan 1, Hamburg-East Aurora area (BACC), 175, Jan 5, Derby (TLB) and 100, Jan 25, Springbrook (FD). Northern Shrike: well distributed throughout Region but not as common as in some years; max three, Feb 6, Lyndonville area (WGS) ; one was seen feeding on a junco in Lewiston (WHK) ; definite movement occurred Mar 1-10. Loggerhead Shrike: one, Mar 31, OO area (HHA et al)—only report. Starling: 1000, Mar 30, Jamestown Roost (CMB). Warblers — Vireos: Myrtle Warbler: one, Dec 24 and Jan 7, Beaver ISP (AF et al); one, Feb 9, Pt. Stockholm, Chaut Co (KOS). Blackbirds — Sparrows: Wintering blackbirds, especially Redwinged Blackbirds and Cowbirds at feeding stations, were more common than usual. Max counts of wintering birds: Eastern Meadowlark—eight, Jan 15 and nine, Jan 26, Lyndonville (WGS); 19, Jan 21 and 12, Jan 22, Wellsville (LDB). Redwinged Blackbird—25, Dec 23, Belmont (LDB). Common Grackle—12, Dec 1, Hamburg (TLB); eight, Feb 1, Wellsville (LDB). Brown-headed Cowbird—22, Dec 1-31 and 2-30, Jan 1-31, Hamburg (RFA et al) ; 2-25, Dec 1-31, Belmont (LDB) ; 38, Dec 27 (BCC) ; 15-75, Jan 4-31, Lewiston (WHK). Rusty Blackbird: one, Dec 14 and Jan 1, Belmont (LDB); one, Jan 15-16, Springbrook (FD) ; three, Feb 23-24, Lewiston (WHK) : —this bird becomes more regular in winter each year—all these The Kingbird 103 reports are from feeders. All Mar migrant icterids were delayed and it wasn't until Mar 26-28 that numbers more suggestive of the average Mar appeared, about two weeks late. Estimates Mar 30 at the Jamestown Roost are as follows: Redwinged Blackbird-500, Rusty Blackbird-500 (equals previous max spring count), Common Grackle-200, Brown-headed Cowbird- 1000 (CMB). Evening Grosbeak: six, Jan 2 (SCC) ; one, Jan 24, Hamburg (TLB) ; five, Feb 9 and one, Feb 13-14, Friendship (RLN); 12, Feb 26, Richburg, Alleg Co (LJ)—only definite reports all winter; other reports coming to our attention indicate a very limited early Feb movement. Purple Finch: scarce with a “brief and light, but definite movement about the second week of Feb” (HHA); max 16, Mar 20-21, Jamestown area (GGW et al). Common Redpoll: two, Mar 25, Chestnut Ridge Park (TLB)—only report. Pine Siskin,: two, Jan 2 (SCC) and six, Mar 11, Wellsville (LDB)—only reports. Rufous-sided 1 Towhee: one male, Dec 14-Mar 31, Rensch Rd, Amherst (RCR et al); 9 other reports of single birds from 8 locations—far more winter reports than usual. Field Sparrow: one, Dec 4, Hamburg (TLB); one, Jan 1-23 (EO) and Jan 4 (LDB), Belmont; one, Jan 23, Pt. Stockholm (KOS) ; one, Feb 28, Chaut Lk Outlet (AC et al)—more winter reports than usual. Harris’* Sparrow: one imm male at feeder of Mr, and Mrs. William Kranz, Pleasant Ave, Lake View, Erie Co; first identified Jan 16 (RFA) but reported to have arrived in mid Dec; observed and photographed by many observers throughout period; this bird often sang. White-crowned Sparrow: unprecedented number of about 75-100 wintered at an abandoned nursery at Newfane, Nia Co (HHA, WHK et al); other winter reports—10 other reports of one to five birds from 4 locations— this bird becomes more common and widespread each winter. White- throated Sparrow: less common than last year. Fox Sparrow: one, Dec 5-15, Rensch Rd, Amherst (RCR et al) ; two, Dec 27, Jamestown area (JCC) ; one, Jan 15, Fluvanna (CMB). Swamp Sparrow: three, Jan 28, Chaut Lk Outlet (AC et al)—few recent winter records for southern tier. Lapland Long- spur: apparently a fair late Feb-mid Mar flight; max 26, Feb 27, Somerset (RB et al) and 25, Mar 14, Shadigee (RCR et al). Snow Bunting: scarce all winter; most reports for Jan and Feb with max of 175, Jan 7 and 100, Feb 1, Wellsville (LDB) and 500, Feb 20, near Stockton, Chaut Co (EMP et al) ; definite movement occurred last week of Feb but almost no early Mar reports when they quite often are the most abundant. 48 Dartmouth Avenue, Buffalo 14215 REGION 2 — GENESEE Allen E. Kemnitzer The first month of the period started out like the beginning of a long, hard 1 winter. However, a moderating trend developed and December actually averaged 0.9 degrees above normal temperature for the month and 3.4 inches below normal precipitation. January provided a generous amount of wintry weather with temperatures averaging below normal and precipita¬ tion above normal. While snow covered the ground during most of January and February, heavy accumulations did not occur. The last two months of the period recorded below average precipitation. An early spring seemed indicated during the first two weeks of March, but this brief spell of mildness did not last and most ponds and bays remained frozen to the last days of the period with March temperatures averaging 2.8 degrees below normal. 104 The Kingbird The severe winter weather of early December pushed out, or otherwise eliminated, many of the late migrating or lingering species. Flights of northern finches never developed. The Christmas Census, held on Dec 27, resulted in a species count considerably lower than last year’s. It was a “Snowy Owl year” locally, with a number of individuals remaining in the area for the entire period. Along the west lakeshore, Horned Larks, Lapland Longspurs, and Snow Buntings were observed in increasing numbers during the last week of January. Larger numbers than usual of Cedar Waxwings appeared quite widespread throughout the area during the latter part of February and early March. Small scattered flights of Canada Geese, Red- winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, Mourning Doves, and Robins took place during the first week of March announcing the beginning of spring migration. This was interrupted by colder than average weather for the remainder of the month and the period ended with the migration of many species far behind schedule. Among the outstanding birds reported during the winter season were: Eared Grebe, Surf Scoter, Common Scoter, Gyrfalcon, Red Phalarope, Pom- arine Jaeger, Little Gull, Boreal Owl, Red-headed Woodpecker, Ruby- crowned Kinglet, Nashville Warbler, and Oregon Junco. Abbreviations used below are as follows: BB—Braddock’s Bay; CL— Conesus Lake; DEP—Durand-Eastman Park; GR—Genesee River; HSP— Hamlin State Park; IB—Irondequoit Bay; L—Lakeshore; OB—Oklahoma. Beach; PB—Point Breeze; RS—Russell Station; SB—Sodus Bay; WL—-West Lakeshore; WP—Webster Park. Names of observers used in the text: SB—Stephen Barnes; WEB— Walter E. Benning; GD—(Mrs.) Gertrude Davis; JF—John Foster; WH— William Hartranft; AEK—-Allen E. Kemnitzer; BK—(Mrs.) Beatrice Kemnitzer; JWK—(Mrs.) J. W. Kennedy; GL—(Dr.) Gerhard Leubner; WCL—-Walter C. Listman; WL—Warren Lloyd; RM—Ruth MacRae; AM—- Alfred Maley; RGM—Robert G. McKinney; JM—Joseph McNett; TM-— Thelma McNett; MM—Marianne Menuhin; HSM—Howard S. Miller; LM— (Mrs.) Laura Moon; NM— (Dr.) Neil Moon; WM—(Dr.) William Muchmore; FM—(Mrs.) Frances Munson; RTO—Richard T. O’Hara; HRS—(Mrs.) H. R. Smith; AS—Alfred Starling; ES—(Mrs.) Esther Stiles; MS : —Mary- anne Sunderlin; ST—Stephen Taylor; FT—Frank Templeton; TT-—-Thomas Tetlow. Loons — Ducks: Common Loon: one, CL on Jan 2 (WCL et al). Red- throated Loon: one at IB, Dec 19 (AEK), remained in the area about three weeks, observed for the last time, Jan 9 (AEK, RGM). Red-necked Grebe: singles reported from several locations, after having been unusually scarce during the fall season; one at Kendall, Dec 12 (AEK) ; one at WP, Dec 13 (AEK, HSM, et al) ; one at OB, Dec 19 (AEK, ST, et al); one at SB, Dec 20 (MM, ES). Horned Grebe: relatively scarce. Eared Grebe: one at CL on Jan 1 (WCL) was observed under favorable conditions; on. the following day, the Christmas Census, the Eared Grebe could not be found. Pied-billed Grebe: one, Dee 19-Jan 1, at IB (AEK); one, Jan 9, at SB (AEK, RGM); one, Jan 24, on GR (JD, HSM). Three Mute Sw#ns were reported from PB, Jan 30 (AEK). They were observed in the outlet channel of Oak Orchard Creek for two months and were noted with a fourth Mute Swan on March 28 (BK, AEK). The origin or status of these swans as feral birds was not known at this writing. Canada Goose: migrating flocks appeared along the west lakeshore the first week in March, although most ponds and bays remained frozen throughout March. Gadwall: two, Jan 2, CL (WCL et al). American Widgeon: four, Jan 2, CL (WCL et al). Ring-necked Duck: one, Jan 24, GR (JD, HSM). Canvasback: eighty-two, SB, on Mar 14 (WL, MS). Numbers of Canvas- 105, The Kingbird backs and Redheads began to build up at SB near the end of the period. The numbers of White-winged Scoters wintering on L Ontario seemed about average. One Surf Scoter was reported from Nine Mile Point, Feb 14 (JF, AM), and one Common Scoter was reported from SB, Jan 20 (MM, ES). Hooded Merganser: sixteen at IB, Dec 27 (WL, RM). Hawks — Owls: Aceipiters scarce. No Goshawks reported. A Sharp- shinned Hawk was at OB, Dec 19 (HSM, AS, ST) and another was reported from Penfield, Jan 30 (GD). A Cooper's Hawk was observed at DEP, Jan 30 (SB, AS). Although some hawks were reported moving along the lake- shore in March, good flights of early aceipiters and buteos did not material¬ ize during the month of March. Bald Eagle: two, mature, Jan 2, Little Lakes Christmas Census (JF, WL) ; one, mature, Feb 17, reported from Canandaigua Lake (HRS); one, mature, found dead, Mar 7, at Scottsville. The most outstanding record for the period was the observation of a white- phase Gyrfalcon at Clyde on Mar 7 (WEB), about ten days after the sight¬ ing of a white-phase Gyrfalcon at Ithaca, An excellent verification report of the Clyde record was received. Sparrow Hawk: scarce during most of the period; more numerous in March. Killdeer: four at IB, Dec 13 (AEK) ; two at CL, Jan 2 (WCL) ; one at RS, Jan 10 (WL). One Red Phalarope was at IB Outlet, Dec 13, 19, 20 (AEK, MS, et al). A most unusual December record was the observation of an immature Pomarine Jaeger, Dec 24, on IB (JF, AM, TM). Identifica¬ tion was based on direct size comparison with Ring-billed Gull and on the strong, direct flight. Observers are familiar with Parasitic Jaeger. A few white-winged gulls were present throughout the period, maximum numbers occurring during the second half of February. Glaucous Gull: four at IB, Feb 17 (WL, MS). Iceland Gull: three at IB, Feb 17 (WL, MS); four, L, Feb 29 (JD, ST). A mature Little Gull was at the IB Outlet among a small flock of Bonaparte's Gulls, on the Christmas census Dec 27 (AEK, FT). Snowy Owl: noted in several locations during most of the winter; highest count for any one location was five at BB, Dec 12 (WCL). At HSP, a Long-eared Owl was reported Jan 24 (JF). There were very few reports of Short-eared Owls. A rare Boreal Owl was observed near the Lakeshore Golf Club, Feb 24-26 (AEK, RTO, et al)—see page 75. Saw- whet Owl: unreported. Goatsuckers — Shrikes: Two Red-headed Woodpeckers were at Mt. Hope Cemetery during Dec and Jan (AM). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker: one, all winter, Palmyra (WH) ; one, Dec 7-31, Irondequoit (LM, NM) ; one, Jan 16-31, Irondequoit (JWK). Horned Larks greatly increased in numbers along the lakeshore after the middle of January. Mockingbird: one, Feb 6, at Nine Mile Point (MM, ES). A Catbird was observed at Powder Mill Park, Dec 5 (GOS Hike). Brown Thrasher: one at Penfield, Jan 5 (HSM) ; another at Greece, Jan 5-26 (several observers). Hermit Thrush: one, Dec 27, Seneca Park (AM, TT) ; one, Jan 30, HSP (SB, WCL, AS). The Ruby- crowned Kinglet showed up on both local area Christmas Censuses: one at IB, Dec 27 (WL, RW) and one at Honeoye lake, Jan 2 (AS). Bohemian Waxwings: unreported. Cedar Waxwings: many flocks, ranging in size from just a few waxwings to large groups of two hundred to two hundred fifty, appeared throughout most of the area during late February; many were observed to be feeding on the remains of last year’s bumper crop of Mountain Ash berries. The numbers of Northern Shrike present all winter seemed somewhat above normal. Some .were still being reported as the period ended. Loggerhead Shrike : an early migrant, unreported at the end of March. Vireos — Sparrows: A very late Nashville Warbler was carefully studied at Newark and was present from Dec 13-23 (ES). Fewer Rusty Blackbirds than usual wintered oyer; three were reported at Penfield, Jan 30 (GD). A 106 The Kingbird Common Grackle was at Penfield, Dec 27 (RGM) and an unusually large flock of one hundred Brown-headed Cowbirds was reported from Rochester, Feb 15 (WM). Evening Grosbeaks: scarce; two, DEP, Dec 27 (GL, LM, NM) and three at the same location, Jan 30 (SB, AS). Purple Finch: few reports for the period; nine at HSP, Feb 28 (WL, RM). A Rufous-sided Towhee spent most of the winter at a Webster feeder area (JM, TM) . An. Oregon Junco was at West Webster from the first day to the last day of the period (AEK, BK) and was joined by a second of its species during January and February. An Oregon Junco was at Pultneyville, Feb 6 (MM, EiS) and another was reported from Webster on Feb 28 (WL). A Field Sparrow was; observed at a Penfield feeder, Jan 3 (FM, et al). Lapland Longspur and Snow Bunting numbers were down all period. A pronounced, but brief, flight took place near the end of January. Sixty-four Lapland Long- spurs and one hundred ten Snow Bunting were reported along WL, Jan 30 (AEK). 969 Five Mile Line Road, Webster 14580 REGION 3 — FINGER LAKES Sally Hoyt Spofford This was one of the most open winters we have had in some time. Snow accumulation was small, and at no time did more than six or eight inches cover the ground. Combined with the drought of the summer and fall, this resulted in such low water levels in ponds and streams that most small bodies of water froze early, although low temperatures were not extreme. The large lakes had less ice than usual. Montezuma began opening in early March, refroze briefly the third week, was fully open on April 2. The Snowy Owl and Rough-legged Hawk invasion reached only the northern part of this Region, and there were almost no reports of these in the southern section. It was as poor a year for winter finches as last year was rich. We had to be satisfied with scattered individuals of most, except for a handful of Goldfinches at some feeders. No Crossbills, Pine Grosbeaks, or Lapland Longspurs reported. A female Barrow’s Goldeneye appearing for the third winter and a Lesser Black-backed Gull for the second in the Cayuga Basin, and a Lesser Black-backed Gull at. Elmira for the first time, were noteworthy. Outstand¬ ing bird of the year, however, was the immature white-phase Gyrfalcon at Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary on Feb. 24. (See body of report, field note to appear in July issue.) Killdeer, Song Sparrows, blackbirds, geese, ducks and Horned Larks were conspicuous in migration on and around March 6. Again at least one partial albino Canada Goose was noted at MNWR, as well as another bird which appeared to be a hybrid Canada-Snow, This bird, carefully observed by Walter Benning and John Morse, had a head and neck quite similar to a Blue Goose, while the body was that of a Canada. It was the size of the largest of the Canadas. A complete description is on file. Places mentioned: Cay L—Cayuga Lake; Sen L—Seneca Lake; MNWR—Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge; SWS—Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary. Contributors: JB—Jack Brubaker; WEB—Walter Benning; HF—Helen Fessenden; FG—Frank Guthrie; WG—William Groesbeck; WH—Wilifred Howard; JK—James Kimball; EL—Ethel Little; ML—Malcolm Lerch; The Kingbird 107 ! DM—Dorothy Mcllroy; EM—Eugene Morton; DP—David Peakall; ER— Esther Ruggles; BS—Betty Strath; BSt—Betty Starr; GAS—Gustav Swanson; MS'—-Mary Smith; WS—William Swallow; WRS—Walter R. Spofford; JW—Jayson Walker. Loons — Ducks: Red-necked Grebe: three sightings of this rarer Grebe: one^ Jan 10, Sen L (BS et al); ope, Mar 14, Sen L (FG and ML); one Chemung River, Mar 28 (WH). Horned Grebes: 216 were found on water- fowl census' weekend, of which 129 were on Sen L; this compares with census total of 122 in *64. Pied-billed Grebe: 8 on waterfowl census compared with 2 in ’64. Great Blue Heron: several wintered; one, south end Cay L, until early Jan; one over Elmira airport at end of Dec; one, MNWR until it froze in Jan; one returned to Refuge Mar 28. Whistling- Swan : continued recent increase during migration, turning up in more localities; most records last week in March: 6, Sen L; 25 Cay L; 70, Keuka L near Branchport; one, Canisteo River at Corning; one, Horseheads dump. Canada Goose: 106 at Stewart Park, Ithaca on Dec 15—high count for the last date. A few remained in Jan and Feb. On Mar 4, 185 at MNWR, as water began opening. These may have been mostly ones that winter in Finger Lakes. John Morse gives these figures for rest of month: 2000, Mar 11; 9000, Mar 18; 4000 Mar 25 (Refuge partly frozen again); 28,000, Mar 28. There were estimates of another 20,000-30,000 on Cay L at same time. Snow Geese: 150 and Blue Geese: 400, were high counts at end of March. Only one Brant reported, Sen L, last week of March. First returning waterfowl (Widgeon) on Cay L last week February. Ducks first appeared at MNWR on Mar 18, as water opened. Mallard: the 2500 on waterfowl count was almost double last year’s count; over 500 at SWS all winter. Black Ducks: increase noted on waterfowl census; 200 wintered at SWS, compared with 150 in ’64. No Gadwalls or American Widgeon and only one Pintail (SWS) on waterfowl count, and Widgeon were scarce in migration on Keuka (FG). Pintail: three, Mar 27 MNWR (DP) compares with 1200 on same date a year ago. Green-winged Teal: Jan 15 and thereafter, Chemung River, Elmira; rare winterer. Wood Duck: three wintered at SWS; first spring arrivals, last week March. Redheads: although over-all count of Redheads for Finger Lakes was down this year, larger numbers appeared earlier on Cay L than usual; for ex., a large raft was seen at Farley’s Point Dec 19 (DM) ; maximum on Cay L: 3300 on Mar 7 (WEB)—only 100 more than census count in early January. Ring- necked Duck: one (rare winterer) Cay L, Jan 16 (JK) ; 20 in Jan, Keuka L (FG); maximum, 100, MNWR, Mar 21; observers commented that more were seen in March this year than usual—single birds on small ponds everywhere. Canvasback: numbers were low on Cayuga and Seneca, on Jan census, above normal (300) on Keuka; however, 1200 were noted at north end of Cay L on Mar 27 (DP). Scaup: 50% decrease from ’64 to ’65 noted on Jan waterfowl census, and species remained relatively uncommon all winter. Common Goldeneye: approximately 1000 on waterfowl census was an increase this year. Barrow’s Goldeneye: for the third year, a female was to be found 1 with Common Goldeneyes near Sheldrake; first noted Jan 16 (JK). Bufflehead: count of 354 on January census (294 on Seneca) almost quadrupled the ’64 count; White-winged Scoter: uncommon on Cay L; one noted in Jan and Feb near East Varick. The count of all three Mergansers was higher this year than in ’64. Hooded Mergansers were reported in good numbers everywhere the last week of March. Hawks — Owls: Turkey Vulture; first arrivals, last week in March. Goshawk: two or three sightings, Ithaca area, fewer than last year. Sharp- shinned Hawk: at least five individuals in Ithaca area, one of which died after being caught and held. Cooper’s Hawk: two only; one, Jan 1, Ithaca, (Census); one, Jan 25, Elmira (MS). Red-tailed Hawk: one species that seems to be holding its own; more abundant, however, north of line mid¬ way across Finger Lakes than south of line. Rough-legged Hawk: half a The Kingbird 108 dozen sighted in southern half of region, slightly more common in northern half. Golden Eagle: one, flying high over Etna, Mar 27 (WRS); Spofford’s attention was called to it by evident excitement of his captive Eagle. Bald Eagle: no reports during period. Marsh Hawk: two, Jan, Elmira area; two, Geneva area, Feb and Mar; one Ithaca area, Feb. _ No Peregrine reports. Pigeon Hawk: two reports, very unusual in area in winter; one, Dec 7, near SWS (HF) ; one, Feb 5, Forest Home, Ithaca (DM). Sparrow Hawks: scattered reports during period throughout area; Groesbeck noted increase in numbers last week March in Hornell area. Gyrfalcon: an immature white-phase individual spent 1 Vz hours at Sapsucker Woods on Feb 24, and was seen by numerous observers and photographed. On Mar 7, just north of Clyde, Banning saw what was probably the same bird (see Region 2 report). The next issue of the KINGBIRD will carry a complete account. Bobwhite: very few reports, in view of the numbers released in area in last few years. Turkey: scattered reports in scattered areas indicated some spreading of this species. Killdeer: at least one wintered on Cay L. American Woodcock: arrived between Mar 25 and 28, ten days later than usual. Common Snipe: one wintered again at Clyde for 3rd year (WEB); no reports of others before Mar 31. Glaucous Gull: one, (a creamy bird) Dec 18, Stewart Park, Ithaca (DM); one (white), Feb 11, Stewart Park (DM); one, late March, very white bird, (probably 2nd year), Sen L, several observers, Iceland Gull: one, Mar 8, Stewart Park, Ithaca (DM). Great Black-backed Gull: max 26, Stewart Pk, Ithaca. Lesser Black- backed Gull: for second successive winter at south end Cay L. First seen Dec 7 (DM). Regularly observed, through Mar 21. A different, and darker-backed individual of the species was seen at Elmira Jan 16 and Feb 17 (AF et al). Opportunities for close observation of leg color and size comparisons with Great Black-backed and Herring Gulls. Franklin’s Gull: an adult in winter plumage, first seen Dec 8, Stewart Park, Ithaca (DM). Present for two weeks. Second record for Cay Basin. Barn Owl; no reports. Great Horned Owl: several nests in Cay L Basin showed incubation in progress in late Feb. Snowy Owl: less than a dozen reports, all but one in northern half of region. Short-eared Owl: several, Jan. and Feb, Mud Lake road west of Sen L (JB); only one or two other reports. Barred Owl: the resident bird heard occasionally in SWS. Swifts — Shrikes: Red-bellied Woodpecker: at least six at south end of Cay L. Red-headed Woodpecker: an imm. bird wintered at the Morey Nichols feeder, Interlaken, Rte. 89. Another (age?) was seen in Feb, Italy Hill (near Keuka) (fide FG). Horned Larks: wintered in numbers in Geneva area (JW); residents and migrants returning by third week Feb. Blue Jay: fewer complaints about large numbers at feeders, so perhaps a slight decline. Raven: (rare) one, Jan 28 Trumansburg, (WS). Black¬ billed Magpie: at feeders in Horseheads, Mar 25 and 26, photographed; no indication'of recent captivity (Gleason and Hartman). Boreal Chickadee: one, Jan 2, Montour Falls (BS). Red-breasted Nuthatch: single report all winter, in contrast with last few years. Winter Wren: only one, Jan 11, west side Skaneateles, (BSt.). Carolina Wren: one only, all winter, Forest Home (ED). Mockingbird; four reports of wintering birds in Region. Catbird: one wintered, South Hill, Ithaca, Brosseau feeder. Brown Thrasher: one wintered, Freeville, Beck feeder. Robins: arrived in numbers in Ithaca area on Mar 28; very few wintered in spite of food and open weather. Golden-crowned Kinglet: almost completely missing. Ruby-crowned King¬ let: one at Etna feeders, January. Cedar Waxwing: numerous reports of flocks. Northern Shrike: one, banded Jan 27, Etna (EM). Warbler* — Sparrows: Myrtle Warbler: only two reports of wintering Myrtles.; usually a few in each part of Region. Wintering Icterids this The Kingbird X09 year included Meadowlarks in all areas, a few Redwinged Blackbirds, two Baltimore Orioles (one in Watkins Glen, and one in Dec in Ithaca) and many Cowbirds. Rarely has there been a winter with no winter finches, Evening Gros¬ beaks were almost completely absent, as was last the case in ’56-’57. Perhaps a dozen reports came in of one to 10 birds, in March—no more. There were almost no Purple Finches, no Redpolls, no Siskins, Crossbills, or Pine Grosbeaks. A few small Goldfinch flocks remained, and came to feeders. Tree Sparrows were more in evidence after Mar 15 than before-—whether a reflection of a decrease of food in the fields, or simply of the beginning of northward migrations of those that had been farther south. Fewer White-throats wintered. Oregon Junco: one, Jan, Elmira (ER), one Montour Falls (BS). Snow Buntings: several hundred, Jan 24, south of Ithaca (GAS) ; one flock of 200, Feb 4, near Hornell- (WMG). Laboratory of Ornithology, Cornell University, Ithaca REGION 4 — SUSQUEHANNA Leslie E. Bemont It was a relatively warm and open winter, with all the sub-zero temper¬ atures and persistent snow cover coming in January and the first week of February. In mid March, after the arrival of some early migrants there was a short period of below normal temperatures accompanied by snow that slowed the migration. No casualties were reported, but bluebirds, after being reported for 4 days, disappeared for about 10 days. The last 3 days of March were well below normal in temperature and migrants of a number of species such as Cowbirds, Grackles, Robins, Juncoes and Fox Sparrows were present in large numbers, possibly the result of a “damming” effect of the cold weather. The relative warmth prevented Skaneateles Lake from freezing over as it usually does, making it possible for several species of diving ducks to winter there for a change. Among raptors the winter belonged to the Rough- legged Hawks, although Red-tailed Hawks remained in some numbers and a Goshawk and two Pigeon Hawks seem noteworthy. Among the “irregular” passerines only Cowbirds, Goldfinches and Cedar Waxwings were present in any real numbers during the heart of the winter. There were no reports of crossbills, but most other winter finches were reported at least once, although in drastically reduced numbers. Even Tree Sparrow numbers were well below normal. Hopefully this was due to bount¬ iful supplies of natural foods in other areas. A side effect of such a dull winter is that it causes observers to stay home more willingly, making the reports even duller than the winter. Contributors: LA—Mrs, L. Atkinson; LB—Leslie Bemont; M&AD— Marilyn & Anna Davis; RD—Robert Dirig; GF—G. Field; CG—Clinton Gerould; SG—Selena Gorton; JG—John Gustafson; CH—Claude Howard; FL—Florence Linaberry; HM—Harriet Marsi; LN—Mrs. L. Newman; JO— Jack Osadchey; RP—Robert Pantle; R&MS—Robert & Mary Sheffield; DW—Don Weber; MW—Mildred White; R&SW—Ruth & Sally White; RW—Ruth Williams; SW—Stuart Wilson; HW—Herbert Wisner. Loons — Ducks: Common Loon: 3, Jan 10, on Delaware River at Shin- hopple for the Waterfowl Census (RD) and 4, Mar 14, flying over Skyline in Tioga Co. (CG, MW, RW)—only reports. Red-throated Loon: 1, Dec 27, Chenango Valley State Park (P. Kalka, Jr., P. Kalka, Sr., R&MS) for the Christmas Census; still in the same area the next day (R&SW); only the second reported in the Region in about 12 years. Horned Grebe: 1, caught 110 The Kingbird Dec 4 at the Cortland Water Works, held at Cortland State Teachers College until Dec 17 and then released (JG). Pied-billed Grebe: 1, Mar 27, at Owego (CG, MW) and 1, '‘in March”, on Skaneateles Lake (JO). Great Blue Heron: wintering birds reported at Owego (E. Howe), Cortland (LA) and Sidney (Mrs. G. Tenyilliger) ; migrants Mar 24, Owego (D. Raftis) ; arrived at heronry at Candor Mar 30 (DW). Whistling Swan: 1, Mar 17 to 30, Marathon (JG) ; 2, Mar 20, Upper Lisle (SG), at least 1 remaining to Mar 31; 5, Mar 27, Campville (MW); 3, Mar 27, Owego (M. Hills). Canada Goose: a flock, Jan 4, Oquaga Lake (SW) ; first migrants Mar 3, Ingraham Hill (CH); heavy flights, partic¬ ularly Mar 22 and 23; several flocks grounded by a snow storm at Candor Mar 23 (DW). Pintail: 2, Jan 17, Binghamton for the Waterfowl Census (HM, G. Corderman); 1, Endwell,, Feb 14 (E. Washburn); migrants from Mar 18. Green-winged Teal: 1 on Skaneateles Lake during Jan and Feb (JO) ; at least 15 at Upper Lisle, Mar 13 (SG). Blue-winged Teal: “seen during the last week of March”, Oneonta (J. New). Am. Widgeon: Mar 18, Binghamton (HM, FL). Wood Duck: 1, Jan 9 and 10, Sherburne Game Farm (R&SW) ; migrants Mar 18, Binghamton (HM, FL). Redhead; up to 150, Skaneateles Lake, “all winter” (JO). Ring-necked Duck: Mar 9, Bing¬ hamton (FL). Canvasback: thru the winter on Skaneateles Lake (JO); 1, Jan 10, Hancock (RD) ; 1, Feb 14, Binghamton (C. Jennings) ; Mar 23 and 31 at Owego (J. Shuler, RW, MW). Scaup: thru the winter on Skaneateles Lake (JO); 3, Mar 13, Whitney Point Dam (SG), first migrants. Common Goldeneye: thru winter on Skaneateles Lake (JO); usual small numbers on rivers after Jan 1, the largest flock 40, Feb 21, Owego (CG, MW); increased numbers at Whitney Point Dam the last few days of Mar. Bufflehead: Feb 7, Owego (CG, MW, RW), the only report. Old Squaw; 1, Dec 27, Endicott for the Christmas Census (LB, EW) ; the only report. Ruddy Duck: 1, Jan 1, Cortland Christmas Census, the only one. Hooded Merganser: 1, Mar 7, Lounsberry in Tioga Co. (CG), the first; noticeably more numerous than in most years. Common Merganser: wintering population not signifi¬ cantly different from normal; migrants appearing about Mar 13 seemed up in numbers. Red-breasted Merganser: 1, Jan 7 and 8, Sidney (GT)—-only report. Hawks — Owls: Turkey Vulture: 1, Mar 2, Windsor (SW), the first; reported regularly from Mar 6 at Hancock (RD). Goshawk: 1, Jan 19 and 20, Oxford (Mrs. A. Stratton), second hand reports of this bird hanging around feeders in Oxford for nearly a month previously. Sharp-shinned Hawk: substantially more reports than in other years from Feb 4 on. Cooper’s Hawk: the usual small number of reports. Red-tailed Hawk: more than the usual number of winter reports, and a marked increase in numbers after Mar 14. Red-shouldered Hawk: 1, Jan 16, Lordville (SW); 2, Mar 6, Upper Lisle (SG)—the only reports. Rough-legged Hawk': in good num¬ bers everywhere all period; 7, Feb 18, Whitney Point (HM, FL), all in view at the same time. Bald Eagle: 1, Mar 5, 12 and 27, Walton (RD); 1, Mar 13, Skyline (RW); 2, Mar 20, Cortland (LN). Marsh Hawk: Dec 8, Chenango Bridge (SG) ; no more until Feb 4, Cortland Co. (JO) ; migrants from Mar 18. Pigeon Hawk: 1, Feb 13 to 15, Cortland (L. Stone, A. Chrisi- topher); 1, Mar 27, Ingraham Hill (CH). Sparrow Hawk: wintering bird's seemingly became more numerous after Jan 1; migrants from about Mar 13. Bobwhite: 4, at least thru Feb, Freetown in Cortland Co. (L, Stone) ; 1, Mar 15, in Cortland area (Blanchard). Turkey: Jan 5, Oquaga Lake (SW) ; 2 birds at Candor (DW). Killdeer: Feb 28„ Cortland (F. Newman) and Candor (DW). Woodcock: Mar 25, Chenango Forks (M&AD) and Choconut Center (R&MS). Common Snipe: Mar 21, Candor (RP). Herring Gull: the usual number wintering; at least 100, Mar 13, Whitney Point Dam (SG). Ring-billed Gull: Dec 17, Cortland (GF) ; no more until Feb 28, Endwell (HM, G. Corderman). Great Black-backed Gull: Feb 1, Skaneat- The Kingbird 111 eles Lake (JO); Feb 18, Cold Brook (JG); rarely reported in the Region. Mourning Dove: 34, Dec 20, Homer (GF) ; 6, Endwell, Dec 27 (LB); seen daily all winter, Cortland (LA); no others until Mar 6. Screech Owl; num¬ bers still low but improving. Horned Owl: number of reports increasing each year; reported nesting at Homer, |tar 6 (GF, Griffin) ; at a Candor nesting site eggs hatched about Mar 15 (DW) ; active nest found at Ingraham Hill Mar 18 (CH). Snowy Owl: Jan 12, Campville (Urban) ; 1, Mar 10, at Montrose in nearby Pennsylvania, the only ones. Barred Owl: one, Dec 27 and Feb 5, Hancock (RD); 1, Dec 28 and Feb 13, East Sidney (HW). Goatsuckers — Shrikes: Belted Kingfisher: only absent between Jan 31 and Mar 6. Yellow-shafted Flicker: 1, Feb 14, Owego (MW) ; 1, Mar 7, Whitney Point (R&MS) ; 1, Mar 30, Owego (Mrs. T. Flavin) ; the only reports. Pileated Woodpecker: a noticeable increase in the number of reports from year to year. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker: Mar 24, Sidney (F. Quick), reported nowhere else. Phoebe: Mar 30, Candor (RP) and Cort¬ land (LN). Horned I^ark: singing Feb 21, Endicott (R&MS); “nesting”, Mar 1, Cortland (LN). ^Tree Swallow: 20, Mar 29, Cortland (LN), the only ones. Blue Jays: reported to be either numerous or scarce depending on the locality; at E. Sidney, 6 to 8 birds all winter except Feb 2 to 12 when numbers temporarily jumped to 27 to 37 (HW). Tufted Titmouse: reported regularly for at least part of the period at Hancock (RD), Candor (RP) and Cortland (Davis); also reported at Chenango Forks (M&AD) and 11 on the Binghamton Christmas Census. Red-breasted Nuthatch: 2, regular at Freetown to mid Feb (A. Christopher), otherwise absent. Brown Creep¬ er: Mar 25, Deposit (SW), several singing. Winter Wren: Dec 10, Deposit (SW) ; 1, Mar 6, E. Sidney (HW). Mockingbird: 1, Mar 8,~Binghamton (LT). Catbird: Dec 6, Binghamton (HM). Robin: regular reports to about Dec 20; the usual scattered winter reports until about Mar 4 when early migrants started appearing; numbers increased noticeably from Mar 15 until Mar 28 when the main wave of migrants arrived; Mar 29 and 30, “big migrating flocks—thous¬ ands”, Deposit (SW). Eastern Bluebird: 2, Mar 13 Candor (RP); 14, Mar 14, Owego (R.&F. Benedict) ; after Mar 16 none until Mar 28. Golden- crowned Kinglet: scarce all winter. Ruby-crowned Kinglet: Dec 19, Cortland (GF). Water Pipit: Mar 26, Owego (HM), no others. Cedar Waxwing: seemed more numerous than in other years. Northern Shrike: a few reports from almost everywhere in the Region. Blackbirds — Sparrows: Eastern Meadowlark: 1, Dec 9, Cortland (LN) ; 1, Jan 1, South Owego (CG) ; Mar 4, Chenango Bridge (SG); migrants from Mar 23 on. Redwinged Blackbird: a few stayed until Jan 6, then none until 200 males arrived at Ingraham Hill, Mar 2 (CH) ; common from then on. Rusty Blackbird: 1, Dec 18, Cortland (LN) and 1, Jan 1 thru>ll, Cortland (LA); spring migrants from Mar 14, Chenango Bridge (SQ<- ">Q< -~>o< }0<=»0C=D0< >oc=>o c==x> FEDERATION OF NEW YORK STATE BIRD CLUBS, INC. 1965 Officers President Mr. Robert S. Arbib, Jr.____ 226 Guion Dr., Mamaroneek 10543 Vice-President Dr. Allen H. Benton----State University of New York, Fredonia 14063 Corresponding Secretary Mrs. Frederick Marsi--Friendsville Stage, Binghamton Recording Secretary Miss Margaret S. Rusk- 805 Comstock Ave., Apt. 16, Syracuse 13210 Treasurer Mr. Kenneth D. Niven-61 Broadway, Monti cello 12701 Editor of THE KINGBIRD Dorothy W. McIlroy 419 Triphammer Ed., Ithaca, New York 14850 Appointed Committees Bulletin Exchange: Miss Elizabeth Manning, 1130 Fifth Avenue, New York 28 Conservation: Maxwell C. Wheat, Jr., 333 Bedell Street, Freeport 11520 Finance: Samuel R, Madison, 55 Elk Street, Albany Kingbird Finance: To be announced Membership: Alfred A. Starling, 75 Brooklawn Drive, Rochester 14618 State iBook: Dr. Gordon M. Meade, National Tuberculosis Association, 1790 Broadway, New York Publications arid Research: Dr. Edgar M. Reilly, Jr., State Museum, Albany Bibliography: Dr. Sally Hoyt Spofford, Box 428, Etna 13062 Waterfowl Count: John L. Mitchell, 345 Conrad Drive, Rochester 14616 John J. Elliott Memorial Committee: Cornelius J. Ward, 804 South Ocean Avenue, Freeport 11520 Elected Committees Auditing: Edward R. McBride, Coopers Corner Road, Box 601, Monticelfo Jerome Kerner, Box 712, Liberty Nominating: Mrs. Lillian C. Stoner, Albany, Ch.; Allan S. Klonick, Rochester; Dr. David B. Peakall, Syracuse 0CI3OCDO< > 0< __ >0C= _ >0 <